Best Time to Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Weather Guide

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich culture, diverse landscapes, and delicious cuisine. But when is the best time to visit Vietnam? The answer depends on what you want to see and do, as well as where you want to go. Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, which means that it has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the region and the activity. In this blog post, we will give you an ultimate weather guide for the perfect trip to Vietnam.

Written by Jade NGUYEN, (local expert) Updated on 27-09-2024

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When is the best time to visit vietnam ?

In general, there are two best periods to explore the entire country: from October to November and from mid-March to May. These are the times when the weather remains very pleasant, and they are also the least rainy months of the year in Vietnam. However, since Vietnam stretches over a length of 2000 km from North to South, the weather and landscapes vary from one region to another. For example, during the same period, one region may be humid, cold, or rainy, while another will be pleasantly sunny.

When to visit Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam is often considered by many as the most beautiful and authentic region, thanks to its diverse landscapes (bay, sea, mountains, delta...) and the richness of its culture (ethnic villages, craft villages, temples, pagodas...).

This stunning region encompasses both mountains and the Red River Delta, but the weather varies across the region due to differences in altitude.

The months of September to November and April to May are the best times to fully enjoy the mountainous region (Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang,...). The first period is excellent for hiking with pleasant weather, mild warmth, and still splendid landscapes before the arrival of winter in December. The second period is the best time to admire the water-filled rice paddies in preparation for transplanting. They act like giant mirrors reflecting the sky. It's also a great opportunity to meet farmers working in their fields.

As for the Red River Delta (Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long,...) the best season to visit is from September to May. The months of September to November and March to May are ideal for a picturesque exploration of Hanoi or the maritime and terrestrial Halong Bay. 

When to visit the terraced rice fields in Northern Vietnam ?

The breathtaking beauty of the terraced rice fields has long been a specialty of the Northern mountains. In photos, the rice fields are often depicted in shades of yellow or green, but their color changes with the seasonality of the crops. It's worth noting that there is only one rice crop per year, and it depends on weather conditions and regions (farmers have to wait for the first summer rains to begin plowing).

>>> In general, there are three main seasons:

The Water Season in April & May: When the first summer rains arrive, the fields are filled with water. They become giant mirrors reflecting the summer blue sky dotted with white clouds, creating a stunning landscape! When visiting the high mountains of the North during these two months, you will also encounter the local population working in the fields because this is the time when farmers start plowing with buffalo-drawn plows, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere. 

The Green Season from late May to July: This is the period of rice growth, where vast carpets of green stretch as far as the eye can see. This scene will undoubtedly delight nature lovers and photographers.

The Golden Dust Season or Harvest Season between August and September: This is the most eagerly anticipated time, known as the "season of happiness" for the ethnic minorities. A not-to-be-missed spectacle unfolds: locals, barefoot and smiling, gather the fruits of their labor by hand. Each person has their role: women carry bundles of rice on their backs, men thresh and transport the rice home by ox-drawn carts, and children tend to the buffalo while playing together. This authentic and lively scene occurs only once a year, an absolutely unique experience to be cherished.

>>> Our best tour to admire the terraced rice fields in Northern Vietnam

When to visit Central Vietnam? 

The best time to visit is from February to May, with pleasant temperatures and low risk of rain. From March to late May, you can enjoy both the beauty of the old town of Hoi An and its beautiful beaches not far from the city center. Bicycle rides to the countryside around the city also promise wonderful experiences. Additionally, Hue, with its historical sites and rich cultural heritage, is particularly enjoyable during this period.

From June to August, it's summer in the Central region, and temperatures can rise to 39-40 degrees Celsius.

From October to mid-November, the weather can be unpredictable due to potential storms affecting the region, but excursions are still possible. If you plan to visit during this time, don't forget to bring your raincoat and umbrella.

When to visit the South?

The Southern region of Vietnam, known for the Mekong Delta and its beautiful sandy beaches, experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season from October to late April and the rainy season from May to late September.

During the dry season, which is considered the best time to travel to the South, the weather is beautiful, pleasant, and sunny. There is hardly any rain, and temperatures often range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. If you are planning a beach vacation to Phu Quoc Island, Mui Ne, or Nha Trang, these months are highly recommended.

The rainy season, on the other hand, is characterized by fairly intense but short showers. They often occur in the late afternoon and last only 1 to 2 hours. The rest of the day is sunny, making excursions possible. The months of May and June are also the time for ripe fruits when you can explore lush orchards filled with typical tropical fruits of southern Vietnam. 

Traveling during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year Celebration

Tet, the occasion to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Vietnam as well as in some other Asian countries, is the most important and sacred traditional festival for the Vietnamese.

The dates vary each year but often fall between the last week of January and the third week of February. By visiting Vietnam during Tet, you'll have the opportunity to experience something truly authentic and unique during this grand event. Before Tet, the streets are bustling with vibrant colors as people buy new clothes, make sticky rice cakes, purchase fruits, clean their homes, and make offerings to their ancestors.

>>> For more information about the biggest festival in Vietnam: A Traveler’s Handbook for Tet Holiday in 2024

However, the Tet festival signifies a pause in many activities as it is primarily a time for family reunions. Therefore, it is advisable for travelers to plan their trip well in advance, especially by booking air tickets as early as possible, as prices tend to rise rapidly during this period.

When to visit Vietnam and where to go depends on your interests, but it's essential to remember that each region of the country has its own climate. So, regardless of when you plan to visit Vietnam, we can provide recommendations on destinations to suit your preferences. For more information on the topic 'When to visit Vietnam,' please do not hesitate to contact us. We are committed to responding to you within 48 hours.

>>> All our practical tips before your trip:

• Vietnam E-Visa requirements 
• Vietnam Map: Tourist & Geographic
• Everything you need to know about preparing for a trip to Vietnam !