Vietnam in November: Weather, Practical Tips, and Top Attractions

Did you know that November is one of the best times to visit Vietnam? Traveling in November allows you to enjoy your visits in the best weather conditions and avoid the summer holiday crowds.

In this article, we provide a practical guide for an easy visit to Vietnam in November. From climate and weather to must-see places and itinerary ideas, we share our expertise and top tips for a smooth and enjoyable stay!

Written by Hung DAO (Local Expert) Updated on 05-06-2024

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Climate and Weather in Vietnam in November

To start planning your ideal trip, it's important to consider the climate and weather in Vietnam in November. Keep in mind that Vietnam is divided into three distinct regions: the North, the Central, and the South. These regions experience different climatic conditions during the same period.

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, the terrestrial Ha Long Bay, and the mountains stretching along the Vietnamese-Chinese border) experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. In November, it is late autumn: the weather is cool with temperatures ranging between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal season to visit this region. In the mountains, the landscapes remain splendid before the arrival of winter in December.

As for the Central region (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An), it is the end of the rainy season; storms are less frequent, so there is a lower risk of rain.

Finally, in Southern Vietnam (the highlands of Da Lat & Buon Me Thuot, Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and the coastal areas of Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Vung Tau; the islands of Con Dao & Phu Quoc), it is the dry season. The weather is beautiful and sunny, ideal for outings. It is also a good time to enjoy the white sandy beaches on the island of Phu Quoc. 

The 6 Best Places to Discover in Vietnam

The favorable weather in November allows travelers to visit all the sites from North to South, from cities to mountains. Here are the top destinations to visit for a trip to Vietnam in November.

Hanoi, Ancient Capital

Located in the heart of the north, Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, remains the starting point for all excursions in the region. Visiting Hanoi in November is a great opportunity to discover the city in its beautiful autumn colors, with trees gently turning yellow, giving Hanoi a poetic charm. Enjoy the softly sunny days to stroll leisurely through the city center adorned with delicate white daisies. It's the perfect time to sit at a café on Train Street, taste specialties like egg coffee, and watch everyday scenes of life.

Don't miss visiting the Temple of Literature, whose gardens are very calm and relaxing at this time of year. As the days shorten, consider indoor visits, such as the Museum of Ethnography, which showcases part of the history of Vietnam and the ethnic minorities that inhabit the country.

The cooler temperatures of November are perfect for enjoying delicious hot dishes, such as the famous Vietnamese Pho or Bun Cha, one of the best soups in the world, before attending a traditional water puppet show. Before returning to your hotel, be sure to take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, whose romantic atmosphere is enhanced by its lovely nighttime lighting. For more details about the Vietnamese capital, check out this article: Hanoi, Vietnam.

>>> Also read: Train Street in Hanoi: A Complete Guide by Locals 2024

Halong Bay

Visiting this must-see destination in Vietnam in November is certainly one of the best times to fully enjoy its stunning landscapes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is among the 7 New Natural Wonders of the World. It is generally sunny in November and closely resembles the postcard-perfect images that abound online. During a cruise on Halong Bay, you can still go kayaking or swimming while enjoying splendid weather.

Ninh Binh, the inland Halong Bay

Ninh Binh (also known as the inland Halong Bay) promises plenty of interesting things to see and do. Located a 2-hour drive from Halong Bay, this beautiful region is characterized by mountains covered with lush vegetation all year round. It is also one of the typical destinations for any trip to Vietnam. In this area, you will have the opportunity to take picturesque boat rides on lakes and rivers surrounded by limestone cliffs, rice paddies... many of our clients testify that the inland bay is as magnificent as the maritime bay. 

Ha Giang and its pristine region Hoang Su Phi

If you're considering visiting Vietnam in November and have enough time, an excursion to the Hoang Su Phi and Ha Giang region is highly recommended. Located in the far north of the country, still relatively untouched by mass tourism, authentic and picturesque, the majestic region of Ha Giang is filled with breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. Renowned for the motorbike loop in Ha Giang, populated by numerous ethnic minorities, it's highly sought after by photographers and bikers drawn to its exceptional scenery. Learn more about: The Ultimate Ha Giang Guide: Must-See Stops & Insider Tips

Many off-the-beaten-path hiking itinerary options are available to you, ranging from short to long durations. Regardless of the length of the hikes, you will discover stunning landscapes of terraced rice fields, palm forests, bamboo forests, ancestral tea plantations cultivated in traditional ways by ethnic groups, not to mention encounters with the numerous ethnic minorities that inhabit this fabulous territory. 

Mekong Delta

Originating from the vast Himalayan range, the Mekong River flows through five upstream countries in Southeast Asia (China, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos) before emptying into the Pacific Ocean in Vietnamese territory. This river has formed a vast and fertile delta in the southern part of the country, known as the Mekong Delta.

Today, the Mekong Delta is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the country, whether traveling from north to south or vice versa. November presents a great opportunity to explore the Mekong Delta as the rainy season comes to an end. Adding this stop to your Vietnam itinerary in November enhances the diversity and completeness of your journey.

Boat rides on the Mekong River, aboard small rowing boats through the water palm-lined creeks, or cycling, await you to immerse yourself in the daily life of the delta. The lush region of Ben Tre, known as the coconut kingdom, is one of the must-visit beautiful cities in the Mekong.

Another important activity to do when you come to explore the Mekong Delta region is visiting the floating markets. Every morning, boats of all sizes gather and offer a colorful spectacle: local people exchange fruits, vegetables, and all kinds of goods with smiles on their faces, providing a glimpse into the unique "riverine commerce" of the Mekong region's inhabitants. Also read: What to Do in Mekong Delta? Your Complete Guide in 2024

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island, also known as the "Emerald Isle," situated at the southernmost tip of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest island in Vietnam. It boasts both cultural and natural tourist attractions, with its park being recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve since 2006. Its fine sandy beaches and jade-colored waters enchant travelers seeking tranquility under the shade of a palm tree, while its production of pearls, pepper, and fish sauce (nuoc mam) reflects a long-standing cultural craftsmanship. Visitors can even tour some of the factories, offering a unique activity and an original souvenir to bring back home.

Heading to Vietnam in November for a beach vacation in Phu Quoc also ensures you'll enjoy magnificent diving spots in ideal conditions. The An Thoi archipelago boasts a rich and abundant ecosystem, particularly in terms of coral, with 17 documented species.

>>> Also Read: Phu Quoc Island's Top Beaches: Your Complete Guide in 2024

Recommended itinerary for your trip to Vietnam

If you're looking for a travel itinerary in Vietnam for November, here's an example of a two-week circuit. Note that the North and South generally offer the most spectacular landscapes. The Central region can be unpredictable, with rainy days but also rain-free days. Therefore, it is advisable to be flexible.

• Day 1 and 2: Arrival in Hanoi, exploring the millennia-old capital.
• Day 3: Ninh Binh's terrestrial Halong Bay, a natural gem.
• Days 4 and 5: Cruise on Halong Bay, an unforgettable time aboard a junk boat.
• Day 6: Hue, exploring the imperial city.
• Day 7: Hue - Hoi An, between mountains and beaches.
• Day 8: Hoi An, the charming lantern-lit town.
• Day 9: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City, discovering colonial heritage.
• Days 10 and 11: Mekong Delta, nature, craftsmanship, and floating markets.
• Days 12 and 13: Phu Quoc Island and its beaches.
• Day 14: Phu Quoc - Departure

Following this itinerary, you'll not only visit must-see sites from North to South but also enjoy Phu Quoc Island at the end of the journey.

And for a few more days...

Let yourself be enchanted by the mysterious temples of the Khmer city, exploring UNESCO heritage sites. Given the geographical proximity to southern Vietnam, many travelers are drawn to this extension to Cambodia at the end of their Vietnam tour. A journey up the river from the Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh, the Cambodian capital, before reaching Siem Reap, will bring you unforgettable experiences.

The dry season from November to March is preferred for excursions in Cambodia due to its mild air, clear blue skies, and minimal rainfall. If you're considering a trip there, read our tips on Cambodia Visitor Guide: Essential Information Before Your Trip

And for those looking for ideas for combined Vietnam-Cambodia trips, get inspired by our Vietnam-Cambodia Tours