What Is The Best Season To Travel To Vietnam?

Update — October 28, 2024

You’re in the middle of planning your trip to Vietnam and have several questions, particularly about the climate: What is the best season for Vietnam? When is the best time to visit Vietnam? Is it possible to travel during the monsoon period? Will the heat be bearable? Short answer: The best time to visit Vietnam is from mid-March to June. During these months, the climate is ideal with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, offering perfect conditions to explore all regions of the country without too much heat or humidity.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution! Vietnam spans over 332,000 square kilometers, with three distinct climates in the North, Central, and South regions. Here’s a detailed overview of what each region has to offer depending on the season.

Understanding the Vietnamese Climate 2024

When to visit the South?

In the South, temperatures remain constant year-round, ranging between 26°C and 30°C. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to March. The days are sunny, and temperatures are pleasant, unlike the North and Central regions where temperatures can be very low. From July to December, the South enters the rainy season. Short but intense showers fall almost daily in this part of the country. These episodes rarely last the whole day and usually end with bright sunshine.

When to visit the Central region?

The swimsuit is always a good option! The water temperature along the coast remains comfortable year-round, between 25°C and 28°C.

For a relaxing stay in Central Vietnam, in places like Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An, or the Central Highlands, it’s best to visit during the summer months, from April to the end of July. During the dry season, temperatures range from 30°C to 40°C, and the sky is beautiful! This is the best time to visit the Central region.

However, from September to October, the rainy season begins in Central Vietnam, which can lead to floods and the risk of typhoons.

When to visit the North?

It’s the Noooooooorth… of Vietnam! Here, when it’s hot, it’s very hot; when it’s cold, it’s very cold! Don’t worry, our winters are milder than in Europe. To fully enjoy the North and its natural beauty, we recommend two periods: spring, from mid-March to June, and autumn, from September to November.

From March to June, it’s the best time to visit Vietnam; the temperatures are pleasant, rainfall is rare, and the days are sunny — a mild climate perfect for hiking, unique swims in Ha Long Bay, or cycling through the beautiful Ha Giang region.

As for September to November, this period brings the most beautiful natural panoramas in the North as it’s the end of the monsoon season. The rice terraces turn beautiful green/orange hues. If there’s still a little rain, the temperatures are milder, and the sky is clearer. The reward is unforgettable trips through the rice fields!

Summer months, July and August, mark the arrival of the monsoon season. It doesn’t rain all the time, but when it does, it rains heavily! Typhoons are also a risk, though they are rare. In addition to intermittent rain, the heat can reach up to 40°C. The solution? Head to the cool mountains of Northern Vietnam: Sapa, Ha Giang, Mai Chau…

The least recommended period is from December to February. During winter, the temperatures are cold in the mountains, and the rice terraces are fallow. The brown landscape replaces the beautiful green and yellow tones of the summer months. Fog is also frequent during this season, which can spoil the pleasure of a sunrise in Ha Long Bay.

Ha Giang, Sapa, Ninh Binh (Terrestrial Halong Bay), and Halong Bay in the Beautiful Season

Is it possible to travel to Vietnam during the monsoon season?

Summer (July-August) is a good time to visit despite the rainy season. Temperatures are warm, nature is lush and green, and the skies are often clear. This is one of the best times to see the terraced rice fields of northern Vietnam. And above all, it’s undoubtedly the best season to enjoy Vietnam’s coastline and the stunning sites in Central Vietnam.

In fact, rain has an interesting effect in the big cities. The streets clear out, scooters stop, and the locals put on their raincoats... it’s quite a spectacle. Some of our travelers enjoy wandering through the deserted streets, drenched to the bone but with smiles on their faces.

The choice is yours! If the rain is too bothersome, we suggest traveling in the spring. We’ve dedicated an article on summer in Vietnam to help guide your choices.

Is the humidity too high in Vietnam?

The heat and humidity can be challenging. The rainy season typically begins in the northeastern provinces at the end of spring, from February to April. If you're not used to this, your body may take a few days to adjust. Staying hydrated will be your best ally! It’s a great opportunity to enjoy fresh fruit juices or coconut water throughout the day. Additionally, most Vietnamese accommodations are equipped with air conditioning or fans, as are restaurants and transportation.

When to travel to Vietnam? Our Unusual Tips

As we’ve seen, each season in Vietnam has its own advantages and disadvantages. Vietnam is a destination that can be visited at any time, depending on your preferences and availability. Here are some scenarios to help you refine your choice:

• Avoid the winter months from December to March. The winter can be harsh, especially in the northern highlands (temperatures can sometimes drop to 0°C)

• Spring (mid-March to the end of June) is a great time to explore all parts of the country with pleasant temperatures. Neither too hot nor too rainy!

• Summer, often criticized, offers significant advantages in our view as parents. One of the main ones is being able to bring our little ones to unfamiliar lands. Short rains and long clear skies. Lush rice terraces. Paradise beaches...
• Autumn (September to November) offers the most beautiful landscapes in northern Vietnam. The rice fields show magnificent orange and golden hues! However, Central Vietnam is subject to heavy rains and flooding risks.

If you have any questions or would like us to organize your trip, please contact Vietnam Insolite !