When to Visit Vietnam: Northern, Central and Southern Region

Northern Region

(Sa Pa, Ha Giang, Ha Noi, Ha Long Bay)

‍

Northern Vietnam has four distinct seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. The best time to visit the northern region is during Spring (February to April) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant so you can enjoy many outdoor activities. You will also be able to witness picturesque scenery and the vibrant colors of nature.

‍

Spring

During Spring, you can enjoy warmer temperatures with lots of sunshine and clear blue skies. You can also expect some drizzling rains that are short and sporadic. As well, you can see flowers blooming in northern Vietnam during these months.

‍

Summer

The summer season in the north runs from May to August. During these months, the weather is hot with high humidity that leads to significant rainfall. It is considered a low season because of the less favorable weather. So if you want to take advantage of lower prices and deals, as well as fewer crowds then visit during summer.

Autumn

The weather drops lower and is perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking in Sa Pa or driving the Ha Giang Loop. Harvest season in the mountainous areas is also expected in September. So if you want to see the golden rice fields, head up north during this time.

‍

Winter

December to February are the winter months and temperatures range from 17 to 22 degrees Celsius. You can also expect the temperature to drop as low as 10 degrees Celsius in some areas, especially at night and in the far north. If you enjoy chilling winds and clear skies on the mountain, then visit during these months.

‍

Central Region

(Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Da Lat)

‍

Central Vietnam has a tropical wet climate and can be divided into three areas: North Central, South Central, and the Central Highlands. These areas have slightly different weather patterns and the dry and wet seasons don’t happen at the same time.

‍

In general, the best time to visit the central region of Vietnam is between February to August when the temperature is pleasant with the least rain. While the highest rainfall often happens in September, October, and November. Avoid visiting during the flooding season which falls between October and November.

‍

North Central

(Hue)

‍

The north-central of Vietnam, including Hue, has hot and dry weather from mid-January to late August. These areas have a slightly cooler temperature than the south-central of Vietnam. While the rainfall increases in October and November, occasionally in the form of typhoons.

South Central

(Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Mui Ne)

‍

The rainy season runs from September to early December with the most rainfall falling between October and November. The coasts in the central regions often get typhoons during the wet season and occasionally get floods. The rainy season usually subsides around February and the weather gets warmer with more sunshine. Although cities like Nha Trang and Mui Né have slightly longer dry seasons, usually until September, due to their closeness to the southern region of Vietnam.

‍

Read: 10 Things to Do in Hoi An, Vietnam

‍

Central Highlands

(Da Lat)

In the central highlands, Đà Lạt has a consistently cool temperature and pleasant breeze. This mountainous area experiences most rainfall from June to October making it not suitable for outdoor activities. While it gets colder and drier around December to January with temperatures dropping as low as 14 degrees Celsius.

‍

Read: The Ultimate Dalat Travel Guide

‍

Southern Region

(Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

‍

The southern region of Vietnam has consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. There are only two seasons in this region. The dry season generally runs from December to May and the rainy season is between June and November.

‍

The highest rainfall in this region usually occurs from June to August. While flooding can occur, rain usually comes in short bursts in the afternoon lasting a few hours. The hottest months of the year occur from March to May. During these months, the midday sun is unbearable and sometimes reaches 40 degrees Celsius.

‍

In general, the best time to visit the southern region is during the dry season, especially during the months of December to March.

‍

Read: Visit Long Xuyen Floating Market

‍

Events in Vietnam

There are many events and festivals happening in Vietnam. However, these are the three big events that will most likely have an effect on your travel plans if you're visiting during the festivals. 

Tết or Lunar New Year

Tết or the lunar new year celebration is the largest festival in Vietnam. It is celebrated countrywide spanning over 4 days. The dates vary from year to year depending on the lunar calendar but usually fall between January to February. During Tết, most Vietnamese living in the city head back to their hometowns to celebrate the holiday. Travel is difficult at this time as air and land transportation get fully booked and accommodation goes up in price. So we suggest booking in advance. Other than that, you will find most restaurants and stores closed during the holidays.

‍

If you visit during the Tết holidays, you will find the big cities empty while the streets are filled with colorful lights and lanterns. It is an interesting time to visit to immerse yourself and discover the traditional Vietnamese culture.

‍

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival

This international fireworks festival is held annually in Da Nang city that usually occurs from June to July. This festival is participated by 7 international competitors from other countries. Apart from the pyrotechnic display, there are many activities held that attract a large number of travelers every year.

‍

Children’s (or Mid-Autumn) Festival

The Mid-autumn festival, also known as Tết Trung Thu, revolves around children. It takes place on the 15th day of the 9th lunar month. During this time, you will see groups of lion dancers on the street and you’ll be able to buy different varieties of mooncakes sold on every corner. You will also see colorful lanterns on streets all over Vietnam. The best place to celebrate the festival is at the Ancient Town in Hội An where you can see hundreds of colorful paper lanterns and plenty of street performances.