Exploring Vietnam in May: Top Destinations and Weather Tips

May, marking the transition from spring to summer, is one of the best months to visit Vietnam due to its favorable weather. Temperatures are warm and pleasant, without being too stifling, and rainfall is less frequent compared to the rainy season.
In this article, you'll find all the essential information about Vietnam's weather in May, along with top destinations to visit and exciting activities to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to experience Vietnam at its finest this May!

Written by Tieu Bao (Local Expert) Updated on 19-03-2025

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1. Vietnam's weather in May

Notably, there are still significant weather differences in Vietnam's three different regions at this time of year. Therefore, before you start packing, we strongly advise you to review our in-depth guide to Vietnam weather in May, which covers the weather conditions to anticipate in each region.

Northern Vietnam in May

• (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Land Halong Bay, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Ba Be)

In contrast to March and April, when the weather might be a bit more humid and foggy, May is a fantastic time of year to visit the Northern region of Vietnam because of its consistently dry and nearly sunny atmosphere.

The average daytime temperature in May is between 30°C and 33°C, while the average nighttime temperature is between 25°C and 27°C. Because it never gets wet, you can enjoy all of your outdoor activities.

Hiking on the rice terraces is made possible by the slightly more comfortable weather in highland regions like Sapa. Alternatively, you might take a lovely cruise to Halong Bay in the brilliant weather to take in the breathtaking scenery, as it is frequently sunny during this month.

>>> Find out more about: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam in 2024? Top 10 Must-See Places

Central Vietnam in May

• (Phong Nha National Park, Hue Ancient Imperial Capital, Hoi An Ancient Town, Danang City)

Unquestionably, May is the best month to visit Vietnam and see its stunning paradise beaches. With average temperatures ranging from 28 to 34°C, it is also a hot time of year in the nation.

With fewer domestic tourists than in June and July and fewer foreign tourists than in March and April, it's also a somewhat slow time of year for travel. This implies that crowds won't annoy you while you enjoy these stunning beaches.

Southern Vietnam in May

• (Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Highlands, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Con Dao and Phu Quoc)

In Southern Vietnam, the rainy season begins in May and continues to grow throughout the month. Despite the hot season, which has average temperatures ranging from 28 to 36°C, the weather is somewhat cooled by the showers. In the afternoon, there will likely be heavy but brief showers, so if you intend to go outside, it is best to bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Con Dao Island, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, and Mui Ne beaches are among the beaches in the northern part of the Southern area that are unaffected by the Southern monsoon and hence continue to have regular conditions. ideal for diving and swimming over the entire month of May.
However, because of the bad weather during this time of year, beaches in the further south, like the island of Phu Quoc, are not advised.

2. Where to go to Vietnam in May?

2.1 The water season in the northern mountains in May

The rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi, located at high altitude in Ha Giang province, stretch as far as the eye can see and seem to be close to the clouds. At the moment, they are in the height of poured water season, when farmers, like barefoot painters, work transplanting rice in these flooded fields which sparkle like an extended mirror. In this poetic atmosphere where man and nature meet, these rice terraces offer a magnificent panorama worthy of appearing on the most beautiful postcards. 

When you visit Hoang Su Phi in the North of Vietnam in May, you absolutely cannot ignore villages such as Ban Phung, Ban Luoc, Sa San Ho and many others where the Nung, Dao and La Chi ethnic groups live together. in peace in traditional stilt houses. Seen from above, these picturesque villages surrounded by rice fields and mountains offer a heavenly landscape. Hikers and nature lovers will be able to enjoy these magnificent scenes without losing a drop of sweat, thanks to the good weather in May in Northern Vietnam.

Still in the same spirit, but with greater fame than the rice fields of Hoang Su Phi in the far north of Vietnam, the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai in the picturesque province of Yen Bai offer an incomparable change of scenery and beauty unparalleled in the month of May. Places like Khau Pha Pass, La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, Tu Le are well-known and unrivaled spots for photography enthusiasts who, through their lens, immortalize these rice terraces that look like layers of coins of silver piled up, like emerald green silk ribbons flying freely to the horizon.

2.2 Mai Chau, an idyllic valley where tranquility reigns

Mai Chau is an idyllic valley not to be missed during a trip to Northern Vietnam in May. The incredible stilt houses of the Muong and Thai ethnic groups blend harmoniously with the green nature, which will not fail to delight travelers looking for a haven of peace and serenity.

To fully enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature, why not consider a walk along the river from Buoc village to Mai Hich village? You will be able to discover the wild landscapes of the region and meet the warm population, who might even invite you to drink a cup of tea in their traditional houses nestled at the foot of the mountains.

The weather in North Vietnam in May is also suitable for bike rides. We recommend taking a tour around Ban Lac towards the village of Van passing through that of Naphon, admiring the hills of bamboo as green as they are dense on the slopes around the rice fields as far as the eye can see.

The fascinating customs of the Thai ethnic group, which are held annually in May, cannot be overlooked either. Don't miss this Thai ethnic group's religious and cultural ceremony, which is intended to bring rain, if you're planning a trip to Mai Chau at this time.
Many other ethnic groups who cultivate rice on flooded terrain also follow this custom. The ritual is held in the commune of My Hoa, in Bai Tech Lim, which is close to Mai Chau, during the third or fourth lunar month. Visitors are welcome to join in on this joyous occasion when well-known tunes and games blend with the Thai ethnic community.

>>> You might like to read: Mai Chau, Vietnam: 7 Questions About the Beautiful Northern Valley

2.3 Halong Bay in May 

It is impossible to visit Vietnam in May without a stopover in this dazzling paradise on earth. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Wonders of Nature, is a must-see which is even more splendid at this time of year. Junks glide between limestone peaks in the middle of crystal clear waters of unforgettable turquoise blue

Halong Bay is a true living museum, considered the largest of its category on our planet. In May, it abandons its famous mist to let the sun's rays shine through, offering a breathtaking spectacle. With favorable weather for visits and swimming, why not let yourself be tempted by a kayak trip to discover all the nooks and crannies of the bay? 

Paddle happily in the crystal clear waters which reach 30 degrees or take the opportunity to climb one of its 2000 islets and admire the panoramic view. You can also witness a magnificent sunset on the island's paradise beach.

2.5 Tam Coc-Ninh Binh in May for its rice harvest and its beautiful sugar loaves

You are likely familiar with Vietnam's stunning, picturesque rice fields that stretch for miles in all directions. However, if you want to see these views in a genuine setting, Ninh Binh or Tam Coc—The Terrestrial Halong Bay in May—are the best places to go.
Explore these riverine, fertile rice-field, and limestone-rock landscapes by boarding a tiny flat-bottomed boat. While the region's underground caves offer a total change of view, the light yellow hues of the rice fields merge with the shades of green of the rich mountain vegetation.
>>> Learn more about Tam Coc, Vietnam: 7 Essential Questions Before You Go!

At the end of the day, why not get on your bike to explore the picturesque surrounding villages and live a unique experience, perhaps even participate in the daily life of the inhabitants of the Vietnamese countryside in May, during the rice harvest season. You can end your bike ride with a visit to the Jade Pagoda, built inside a cave. This visit should be done at the end of the day to avoid the heat of the day and enjoy this magnificent pagoda in a peaceful environment.

>> Are you going with the family this summer? Check out: Family Tours to Vietnam & Vietnam Beaches Holiday

2.6 Hoi An and the Cham Islands – Heritage town and seaside stay

Hoi An is undoubtedly one of the most charming towns in Vietnam in May, with its unique architecture that reflects the marriage between Eastern and Western art. Although the climate is very pleasant, the old town can be very busy with domestic tourists in the afternoon, so it is advisable to visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and quiet beauty of local life .

The surrounding countryside is just as charming. A bike ride in the beautiful organic village of Tra Que, known for its aromatic herbs, followed by a cooking session with vegetables harvested from the garden itself, is a must-do activity when visiting Hoi An in May.

It would also be a shame not to mention the beautiful beaches that border the city of a thousand lanterns. You have the choice of An Bang or Cua Dai, and off the town are the Cham Islands, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve an hour and a half boat ride from Hoi An. This important link in the Kingdom's ancient Silk Road Champa offers wild beaches, shellfish markets, visits to fishing villages and swimming in the crystal clear waters around the island.

>>> Discover the most beautiful city in Vietnam: Hoi An: World top 7 must-see destinations!!

2.7 Nha Trang – A paradise for beach and diving lovers

The beachfront resort of Nha Trang is well-known for its white sand beaches, pristine waters, and consistently sunny weather. When you visit Nha Trang in May, you can have memorable leisure time. Visit the French-founded Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute, which was established in 1922, to start your day. You may learn a lot about the marine life in Vietnam and around the world from this institute.

Then, explore the country's history by visiting the archaeological site of Po Nagar, a vestige of the ancient Kingdom of Champa. A sea excursion will allow you to swim and dive on Whale Island to discover the seabed using masks. Nha Trang spa resorts also offer health-beneficial mud treatments. Finally, Long Son Pagoda, located on a hill overlooking the city, offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area.

3. Vietnam's neighboring countries to explore in May

Vietnam shares its borders with Cambodia and Laos, two equally beautiful countries. Cambodia, with its famous Angkor temples and idyllic beaches like those on Koh Rong, offers an unforgettable experience. Laos, on the other hand, is recognized as one of the most peaceful countries in Southeast Asia, rich in culture and breathtaking landscapes. And Thailand, with its spectacular beaches and tasty cuisine, is another ideal option.

May is a great time to explore this region of Indochina, with a sunny climate and little chance of rain. This is the perfect opportunity to optimize your trip by visiting three destinations in one go. For more tour ideas, check out:

• Vietnam - Thailand Tour
• Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour
• Cambodia - Thailand Tour
• Laos - Cambodia Tour
• Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Laos Tour

4. Our suggested itinerary

Early May is a little colder than April, Cambodia is largely dry with isolated showers becoming more frequent as the month goes on. Because of this, it's a fantastic time to visit Angkor Wat sans the throngs of the busiest season. As Thailand moves into the rainy season, places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao) continue to see sunshine and the occasional cool shower.

Because of this, May is the ideal month to travel to two, three, or perhaps all four of these countries in order to completely experience the colorful celebrations.

>>>>>  Click to see the itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Welcome to Vietnam! Arrive in Hanoi and check into your accommodation.

Day 2: Full-Day Hanoi City Tour

• Explore the capital’s landmarks, culture, and history.

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay

• Travel to Halong Bay and embark on a scenic cruise.

Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hue

• Morning activities in Halong Bay, return to Hanoi, and transfer to Hue.

Day 5: Full-Day Hue Tour

• Discover the imperial city, ancient tombs, and cultural highlights.

Day 6: Hue – Hoi An

• Journey from Hue to the charming town of Hoi An.

Day 7: Full-Day Hoi An Tour

• Explore the old town, markets, and cultural landmarks.

Day 8: Hoi An – Leisure Day

• Enjoy a relaxing day to explore or unwind at your own pace.

Day 9: Hoi An – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City

• Transfer to Da Nang for a flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta

• Experience the vibrant Mekong Delta with a day tour.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Siem Reap

• Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Day 12: Siem Reap – Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat

• Tour the iconic temples, followed by dinner with an Apsara dance show.

Day 13: Siem Reap – Banteay Srei & More Temples

• Visit Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm, Mebon, Srah Srang, and Pre Rup temples.

Day 14: Departure from Siem Reap

• Bid farewell to Cambodia and conclude your journey.

• Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tours
• Vietnam Cambodia Laos Tours
• Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand

Our last words

In conclusion, visiting Vietnam in May is an unforgettable experience for lovers of natural landscapes, culture and relaxation. So, pack your bags and set off to discover this country of a thousand wonders!