Planning
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam has three climate zones, so timing depends on your route. February–April suits the whole country best; the North and South run opposite wet/dry calendars.
Great value, good weather, normal pricesFine, minor trade-offsBusy/expensive or rough weather
| Region | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long) | ||||||||||||
| Central (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang) | ||||||||||||
| South (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong, Phu Quoc) |
Region notes
- North (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long): Cool and dry Oct–Dec is the sweet spot; Jan–Mar can be grey and drizzly; Jun–Aug hot and humid.
- Central (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang): Feb–Aug is dry and reliable; Sep–Jan carries the region's flood and typhoon risk.
- South (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong, Phu Quoc): Dec–Apr dry season is warm and reliable; May–Nov brings short daily downpours, rarely all-day.
Weeks worth avoiding
- Tet / Lunar New Year (late Jan–mid Feb, movable): Highest domestic prices of the year, many family businesses close for a week, book 2+ months out if travelling then.
- Central Vietnam flood season (Oct–Dec): Hoi An and Hue see their heaviest rain and occasional street flooding.
Dates locked? Start planning: build a day-by-day itinerary or browse Vietnam guides.