Vietnam Annual Weather Guide: When is the Best Time to Visit?

Here is a breakdown of Vietnam’s annual weather by region to help you pack the right gear.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

Unlike the rest of Southeast Asia, the North actually experiences four distinct seasons.

• Winter (November to April): The weather is cool and dry. In Sapa or Hanoi, temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F) in January. This is the best time for trekking, though Halong Bay can be misty.

• Summer (May to October): Expect high humidity, heat, and heavy rain.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

The weather in Central Vietnam works on a different clock.

• Dry Season (January to August): This is the ideal time for beach lovers to visit Da Nang or explore the ancient town of Hoi An. The skies are blue and the ocean is calm.

• Rainy Season (September to December): The region is prone to typhoons and heavy rainfall during these months. Flooding can occur in Hoi An, so check the forecast if traveling in October or November.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)

The South enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round (averaging 25-35°C). It has two simple seasons:

• Dry Season (November to April): widely considered the best time to travel to Vietnam for the southern region. Humidity is manageable, and skies are clear.

• Wet Season (May to October): While it rains almost daily, these are usually short, afternoon downpours that clear up quickly, leaving the rest of the day bright.

Summary: The Ideal Window

If you are planning a cross-country trip from North to South, the overall best months to visit Vietnam are February, March, and April. During this time, you are likely to find pleasant weather in all three regions simultaneously.