The short answer
February to April is a good time to see most of Vietnam. The north is best from October to April, the centre from February to May and the south from December to April.
Three climates in one country
Vietnam is long enough to hold three climates. There is rarely a month that is perfect everywhere.
The north is best from October to April, with cool, clear weeks in the karsts. The centre suits February to May.
The south is warm year round, with afternoon downpours from May to October that seldom disrupt a day.
Best months by region
| Region | Best months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa | October to April | Cool and sometimes grey in winter |
| Centre: Hue, Hoi An | February to May | Heavy rain and storms possible in autumn |
| South: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong | December to April | Warm all year, wet season May to October |
Planning a north to south trip
Most trips cover Hanoi, Halong Bay or Ninh Binh, Hoi An and Hue, then Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Two weeks is a good length. In spring the weather usually works well across the whole route.
Our adviceLate in the year the centre can see heavy rain and storms. If you travel then, we keep the plan flexible around Hoi An and Hue.
Travelling around Tet
Tet, the lunar new year, usually falls in late January or February. It is a great time to see the country celebrate, but some shops and restaurants close and transport is busy. We check the date when we plan your trip.
Planning with our Vietnam team
Our team in Hanoi knows how the weather affects each region, and which hotels and boats are well run. Globe Travel Centre has been planning trips since 2006.
Frequently asked questions
The north and south are hot and wet, but the centre can be good in early summer.
Two weeks covers the main highlights from north to south.
Mostly, though cruises can be cancelled in bad weather.
