Best Time to Visit Vietnam from India
The best months to visit Vietnam, the ‘Land of Ascending Dragon’, are during February to April and August to October. This means you can plan your vacation to Vietnam during spring and autumn. The temperature is pleasant and moderate, and rainfall is light during this time, contributing to a wonderful vacation mood.
So, if you are planning to visit this place, get all the details here about the best time to visit Vietnam and places you can explore during these seasons.
Best Months/Seasons to Visit Vietnam
If you are trying to find the best seasons for travelling to Vietnam, note the list discussed below:
Month | Average Temperature | Description |
February-April (Spring Season) | 10 to 25 degrees Celsius in Northern Vietnam 20 to 30 degrees Celsius in Central and Southern Vietnam |
Pleasant weather in the north, ideal for exploring Hanoi and Halong Bay. Mild temperatures in the central region are perfect for visiting Hue and Hoi An. Warm and dry in the south, it is great for beach destinations like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang. Popular events during this time: Cold Food Festival, New Year's Day of ethnic Khmer, Reunification Day and International Labour Day |
May-August (Summer Season) | 28 to 30 degrees Celsius in Northern Vietnam 30 to 40 degrees Celsius in Central and Southern Vietnam |
Hot and humid across the country, it is ideal for beach activities in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. Central Vietnam is warm and wet, while the north experiences heavy rainfall, making it less ideal for trekking. Popular events during this time: Ghost Festival and Doan Ngo Festival |
September-November (Autumn Season) | 20 to 25 degrees Celsius | Mild temperatures in the north are great for trekking in Sapa and exploring rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai. Central Vietnam experiences heavy rainfall and potential typhoons. The south remains warm and dry. Popular events during this time: Ooc Om Bok festival, Vu Lan Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival and the Vietnam Independence Day |
December-February (Winter Season) | 20 to 26 degrees Celsius | Cool and dry in the north, ideal for visiting Hanoi and the northern highlands. Central Vietnam experiences mild and dry weather, which is perfect for visiting Hue and Da Nang. Warm and dry in the south, best for exploring the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City. Popular events during this time: Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Lim Festival, Perfume Pagoda Festival and Yen Tu Festival. |
February-April (Spring Season)
In Vietnam, springtime extends from February to April; this is a period when Vietnam has splendid weather throughout the country, and it is, therefore, perfect for visiting the historical sites of Hanoi, touring Halong Bay by cruises, or wandering around flower gardens.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Vietnam:
Weather |
|
Temperature | 10°C to 25°C in Northern Vietnam, 20°C to 30°C in Central and Southern Vietnam |
Season | Peak |
Season for Localities | Cold Food Festival, New Year's Day of ethnic Khmer, Reunification Day and International Labour Day |
Key Highlights |
|
May-August (Summer Season)
With hot, humid weather, Vietnam's summer season runs from June through August. The time is right for beach activities in cities such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. It will be warm and dry in central Vietnam as northern regions experience heavy rainfalls, which makes trekking not preferable, but enjoying lively summer festivals is ideal.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Vietnam:
Weather |
|
Temperature | 28°C to 30°C in Northern Vietnam and 30°C to 40°C in Central and Southern Vietnam |
Season | Off to moderate (Peak in July and August in Central Vietnam) |
Season for Localities | Ghost Festival and Doan Ngo Festival |
Key Highlights |
|
September-November (Autumn Season)
Autumn lasts from September to November, when temperatures are cool in the north, making it best for hiking at Sapa or viewing the rice terraces of the Mu Cang Chai area. Rainy spells and possible cyclones hit central Vietnam, whereas the South remains hot with decreasing rains. The season becomes more suitable for cultural trips and for experiencing beautiful fall sceneries in the nation.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Vietnam:
Weather |
|
Temperature | 20°C to 25°C |
Season | Off |
Season for Localities | Ooc Om Bok festival, Vu Lan Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival and the Vietnam Independence Day |
Key Highlights |
|
December-February (Winter Season)
Winter in Vietnam, from December to February, brings cold and dry weather to the north, which is ideal for visiting Hanoi and the northern highlands. In Central Vietnam, mild rains continue till late December, which makes it favourable to visit Hue and Da Nang. The South stays warm and dry, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy good weather while exploring the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as experiencing Lunar New Year celebrations referred to locally as Tet festival.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Vietnam:
Weather |
|
Temperature | 20°C to 26°C |
Season | Moderate to peak (Peak in Southern Vietnam) |
Season for Localities | Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Lim Festival, Perfume Pagoda Festival and Yen Tu Festival |
Key Highlights |
|
When to Avoid Visiting Vietnam?
Though Vietnam is beautiful throughout all seasons, there are moments when it might not be desirable to visit for various reasons. One must understand those times to plan a trip that will give you joy; it's better to keep off moving around.
Months to Avoid | Reason |
May to November (Summer to Autumn Season) |
|
Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Vietnam from India
Travelling to Vietnam from India can be affordable if you choose the right time of year. The cost of flights and hotels varies significantly between seasons. Below is a detailed table outlining the different months/seasons and their respective pricing for various parameters:
Season | Average Flight Cost | Average Hotel Cost per Night | Description |
Spring (February-April) | ₹14,000 - ₹21,000 | ₹3,500 - ₹6,000 | Moderate prices; ideal for exploring cities and outdoor activities with cool weather. |
Summer (May-August) | ₹9,000 - ₹20,000 | ₹2,500 - ₹7,000 | Moderate to peak prices; warmer weather and higher tourism demand; suitable for beach and outdoor activities in few regions. |
Autumn (September-November) | ₹12,000 - ₹18,000 | ₹3,000 - ₹6,000 | Cheaper prices are great for sightseeing and cultural experiences. |
Winter (December-February) | ₹14,000 - ₹25,000 | ₹3,500 - ₹7,000 | Cooler weather and moderate to peak prices; ideal for exploring cities and indoor activities. |
Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam
If you are a travel enthusiast and want to explore the unknown and famous places in Vietnam, here are certain things you must keep in mind before visiting:
- Cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing hats when visiting any pagoda or temple.
- You must have a visa before travelling to Vietnam as most tourists require a visa to travel to Vietnam.
- Since Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, you will experience high humidity throughout the year. The weather is unpredictable, and you might also get frequent downpours.
- During the peak season, try to purchase your bus and local transport tickets ahead of time to avoid the last-minute rush.
- Get yourself a local SIM card for seamless communication.
- You will need Vietnamese Dong and US dollars to travel around Vietnam.
- Try to negotiate when you visit the markets and purchase something for yourself.
Tips for Travelling in Vietnam
As you plan your vacation to Vietnam, here are some tips you must follow:
- Try to have a grasp of a few basic Vietnamese phrases and words as you venture out to explore the place.
- If you plan to explore Vietnam on a bike, you must have a valid driving licence from your home country.
- To book local transport ahead of time, you can view the train, bus, and boat schedules by downloading an app.
- Pack according to the weather conditions during your visit since it is very variable in Vietnam.
- Plan your Vietnam itinerary accordingly whether you want to travel to North, South, or Central Vietnam.
- Try to get a taste of the local cuisine such as Pho, Cha ca, Goi cuon, Bun cha, Nem Ran, etc.
What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Vietnam?
Knowing the local language while travelling is helpful. This way, you will not have to struggle to communicate with the locals. Here is a list of some basic phrases that you must know while travelling to Vietnam.
English | Vietnamese |
Hello | Xin Chao |
Goodbye | Tam biet |
Thank you | Cam un ban |
You are welcome | Khong co gi |
Please | Lam on |
Yes | Vang |
No | Khong |
How are you? | Ban khoe khong |
I am fine, Thank you | Toi khoe, cam on! |
Good | Tot |
Bad | Xau |
Excuse me | Xin loi |
Excuse me (to a waiter) | Anh oi |
Excuse me (to a waitress) | Chi oi |
Can you help me? | Ban co the giup toi duc khong? |
How much? | Bao nhieu? |
Very expensive | Qua dat |
I like | Toi thich |
Can you reduce the price? | Ban co the giam gia? |
May I have the menu? | Toi co the co thu c don khong? |
I would like to have this | Toi muon co cai nay |
Cold | Lanh |
Hot | Nong buc |
No ice | Khong co da |
No sugar | Khong du ong |
I am sick | Toi bi om |
Call the police | Goi canh sat |
I need to go to the hospital | Toi can den benh vien |
Here is a list of pronouns you must remember while communicating: | |
I | Toi |
You | Ban |
Male (senior) | Anh |
Male (junior) | Em |
Female (senior) | Chi |
Female (junior) | Em |
The numericals are as follows: | |
One | Mot |
Two | Hai |
Three | So ba |
Four | Bon |
Five | So nam |
Six | Sau |
Seven | Bay |
Eight | Tam |
Nine | Chin |
Ten | Mu o I |
Related to locations: | |
Where is the bathroom? | nha ve sinh o dau |
Where is the ATM? | ATM o dau |
Coffee shop | Quan ca phe |
Bar | Qyan ba |
Go to the airport | Di den san bay |
Hotel | Khach san |
So now that you have all the information about the best time to visit Vietnam, you must plan your itinerary beforehand. Additionally, it is recommended to have a valid travel insurance policy before you visit this place.
This will ensure you have financial coverage during any emergency, whether it is a medical or personal loss. This includes loss of baggage, theft, hotel and flight cancellation, and any injury. Thus, you will be able to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
FAQs about Best Time to Visit Vietnam
What is the peak season in Vietnam?
The peak season in Vietnam is from mid-December to March and July to September, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for exploring cities and outdoor activities.
What is the moderate season in Vietnam?
Vietnam's moderate seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and cultural experiences.
What is the off-season in Vietnam?
The off-season in Vietnam spans from May to November, depending on the region of Vietnam and excluding the peak months. These months are characterised by high temperatures and heavy rainfall, especially in the northern and central regions, making it less comfortable for outdoor activities.
What are the hottest and coldest months in Vietnam?
The hottest months in Vietnam are June and July, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. The coldest months are December and January, especially in the northern regions, where temperatures can drop significantly.
Is winter a good time to visit Vietnam?
Yes, winter is a good time to visit Vietnam, especially in the southern regions, where the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring cities and beaches.
Which months does it snow in Vietnam?
Snowfall is rare in Vietnam, but it can occasionally occur in the mountainous regions of Sapa and Ha Giang during the winter months of December to February.
What month is the rainy season in Vietnam?
Vietnam experiences its rainy season mainly from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the central and southern regions during this period.
Which month is best for visiting Hanoi?
The best months to visit Hanoi are from October to April, when the weather is cooler and drier, ideal for sightseeing and boat tours.
Why is Vietnam a preferred destination for travelling?
Vietnam is preferred for its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture, offering travellers a diverse and immersive experience.
What are the popular places to visit in Vietnam?
Popular places to visit in Vietnam include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Sapa, and the Mekong Delta, each offering unique cultural and natural attractions.
How many days are enough for Vietnam?
A trip of around 10 to 14 days is typically enough to explore the main attractions of Vietnam, allowing time to visit cities, beaches, and rural areas.
Is Vietnam worth seeing?
Yes, Vietnam is worth visiting for its breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, vibrant culture, and friendly locals.
Is Vietnam a tourist-friendly country?
Vietnam is generally tourist-friendly, with well-developed tourism infrastructure, welcoming locals, and a safe environment for visitors.
What currency to take to Vietnam?
The currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's advisable to carry Vietnamese Dong for transactions, but US dollars are also accepted in some places.
Is Vietnam expensive to visit?
No, Vietnam offers a range of accommodation and dining options to suit different budgets, making it possible to explore the country affordably.
When to go to Hanoi?
The best time to visit Hanoi is during Autumn and Spring, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and boat tours.
Do Indians need a visa for Vietnam?
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam. Visas can be obtained in advance from Vietnamese embassies or consulates, or through the e-visa system available for easier processing.
Which month is there snow in Vietnam?
In Vietnam, snowfall is rare and mostly occurs in the country's mountainous northern regions, like Sapa, between December and the end of January.
Why is Vietnam worth visiting?
Vietnam is worth visiting for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and friendly people.
Is Hanoi worth visiting?
Yes, Hanoi is worth visiting for its historical sites, vibrant street life, and rich cultural heritage.
Is Vietnam hot or cold?
Vietnam experiences both hot and cold weather, with hot summers, particularly in the southern regions, and cooler winters, especially in the north.
Is it safe to go to Vietnam at night?
Yes, it is generally safe to go to Vietnam at night, but it's advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas and unfamiliar locations.
Is Vietnam good for nightlife?
Yes, Vietnam has a lively nightlife scene, especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, offering a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
What is the speciality of Vietnam?
Vietnam is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine such as pho and banh mi, stunning natural landscapes, and historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels and Imperial City of Hue.
What is the most visited place in Vietnam?
Hanoi is one of the most visited places in Vietnam, followed by Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, and Hoi An.
What is the prettiest place in Vietnam?
Halong Bay, with its stunning karst landscape and emerald waters, is considered one of the prettiest places in Vietnam.
What to buy from Vietnam?
Popular items to buy in Vietnam include traditional silk clothing, lacquerware, ceramics, coffee, and handicrafts.
What foods is Vietnam famous for?
Vietnam is famous for dishes such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), spring rolls, and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles).
What are 5 facts about Vietnam?
Here are five facts about Vietnam:
- Vietnam is known for its extensive network of rivers and canals, particularly in the Mekong Delta.
- The Vietnamese language uses the Latin alphabet, which was introduced by French colonists.
- Vietnam is one of the largest coffee exporters in the world.
- The country has a rich history with influences from Chinese, French, and American cultures.
- Vietnam is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Halong Bay and the ancient town of Hoi An.
Is Vietnam good for shopping?
Yes, Vietnam offers a range of shopping experiences from traditional markets to modern malls, where you can find unique local products, souvenirs, and handicrafts.