Vietnam is a beautiful country with magnificent scenery and special cuisine. Therefore, traveling to Vietnam should be definitely on your “to-visit” list.
That tourists choosing the best time to visit Vietnam is also very important. The weather in Vietnam changes dramatically from moderate to tropical temperatures as you travel from North to South over a distance of more than 1,600 kilometers. While the tropical monsoon brings heavy rains and flooding, the high temperatures cause extreme heat. So, when is the best time to visit Vietnam for tourists? The guidance provided below will help you decide exactly when to travel to various parts of Vietnam.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Vietnam?
In general, the best time to travel to Vietnam is from March to April and from October to December. During these periods of time, the weather is pleasant and there are lots of events taking place all around the nation. In the following paragraphs, you’ll learn about the ideal time to visit each region of Vietnam.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Northern Vietnam (Sapa, Hanoi, Halong Bay)?
From December to February, the north of Vietnam experiences cold winters with overnight temperatures as low as 4°C (39°F). Meanwhile, Summer (May to August) is typically very hot. Therefore, the weather will be generally warm and sunny in spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November), which is very suitable to visit Northern Vietnam at these times.
Sapa
The most favorable temperature recorded in Sapa was 29.4°C, while the lowest temperature recorded was 1°C. December and January are the two coldest months, while July and August are the two warmest. In addition, Sapa’s winters are very chilly and involve snowfall on the highest peaks. Therefore, mid-September to early December or March and May are the best times to visit Sapa.
Hanoi
No matter what the season is, Hanoi is still a stunning city. However, depending on the activities you prefer, the weather may change your plans. The weather in Hanoi may generally be split into three seasons: the hot, the dry, and the rainy season. Therefore, the periods between March to April and between September to October are the best time to visit this Hanoi. Because of the tropical monsoon climate in this season, the autumn weather will be relatively cool and ideal for participating in exciting outdoor activities.
Halong Bay
The best time to visit Halong Bay is from March to April (spring) and from September to October (autumn). During these periods of time, you can experience the most favorable weather conditions. The pleasant temperature and low rainfall are suitable for you to participate in various water activities such as kayaking, BBQ lunches, cruises, etc.
What Is The Best Time Visit Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An)?
While the weather in Central Vietnam is pleasant from February to August, July and August are the most pleasant months, with days reaching 30°C (86°F). This is also the most suitable time for you to plan your trip to Central Vietnam. Meanwhile, the storm season usually lasts from August to November.
Hue’s Ancient Capital
Hue city, widely known for its cultural heritage and traditional culture, was once the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty and is one of the oldest cities in the country. Hue features two distinct seasons that reflect the natural climate of Central Vietnam. The dry season (from February to July) is regarded as the best time to visit Hue. Meanwhile, visiting this place during the rainy season (August to January) is not recommended.
Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An ancient town, which was recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage, attracts a large number of tourists every year. This is not only a destination with a distinct blend of Eastern and Western cultures, but it is also a repository for many rich and beautiful architectural monuments. Like many other places in the central region, the climate in Hoi An is divided into two distinct seasons: the dry season (from February to August) and the rainy season (from September to January). Therefore, the most suitable time for tourists to visit Hoi An is in the dry season.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)
The weather in Southern Vietnam is warm and pleasant throughout the year, making it perfect for travel at any time of year. The rainy season lasts from June to November, and the dry season lasts from December to May. When traveling to southern Vietnam, you can visit some of the following places:
Ho Chi Minh City
The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is from December to April. Temperatures during this time are also very comfortable, ranging from 22°C to 34°C. The wonderful thing when visiting Ho Chi Minh City during this time is that you can attend the Tet (Vietnamese New Year) Festival, which usually takes place in late January or early February.
Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, often called the Nine Dragon Delta by the locals, is traversed by numerous small, picturesque rivers. When visiting this tourist destination, you can get to know more about its distinctive ways of life. One of the most thrilling experiences for tourists is to visit floating marketplaces, where residents trade items in the river. Furthermore, this region is well-known for its delectable tropical fruits and diverse culture.
The best time to visit the Mekong Delta is during the dry season, which usually lasts from November to April. At this time of the year, you can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities because the sky is very blue and the water is calm.
Conclusion
In summary, the best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April. This is the dry season and also the peak season of Vietnam tourism. Because of the great weather, you can plan your itinerary and activities with the most flexibility. You can plan your trip to Sapa, Hanoi, and Halong Bay from September to December. From December to March, it is recommended to visit Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta to experience light rain and clear skies. Meanwhile, the central coast from Hoi An to Hue is ideal for a tour between January and June.
>> Read more: Top 6 Best Places To Go In Vietnam