5 MIN READ

Best Places to Visit Vietnam Month by Month – Where to Go from January to December

Planning a trip to Vietnam but not sure when to go?

Vietnam is a year-round destination, but each month offers something unique – from cool mountain air in the north to sun-soaked islands in the south. Whether you’re chasing spring festivals, rice terrace harvests, or tropical beach escapes, the best time to visit really depends on your interests. In this month-by-month travel guide, we highlight the best places to visit in Vietnam throughout the year, helping you choose the perfect destination no matter when you plan to go.

Best Places to Visit Vietnam in January

  • January is a beautiful time to explore northern Vietnam. The weather is cool, dry, and ideal for outdoor sightseeing. One of the top places to visit this month is Hanoi, the capital city, where temperatures range from 15-20°C. It’s a great time to walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the Old Quarter, and explore historic sites like the Temple of Literature or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The cool air adds a cozy atmosphere to the city’s bustling cafes and lively streets.
  • If you’re craving adventure and stunning landscapes, head further north to Sapa. January in Sapa is misty and crisp, with the possibility of seeing snow on the highest peaks like Fansipan. While it’s not rice season, the terraced mountains are still breathtaking. You can enjoy trekking to ethnic minority villages such as Lao Chai, Ta Van, or Cat Cat, and immerse yourself in traditional Hmong or Dao culture.

Whether you’re after culture or cool-climate trekking, Hanoi and Sapa are among the best places to visit Vietnam in Januaryoffering a peaceful and atmospheric start to the year.

Best places to visit Vietnam in February

  • February is one of the most festive months in Vietnam thanks to Tet, the Lunar New Year. Cities come alive with decorations, flowers, and local celebrations. It’s a wonderful time to visit Hue, where you can see the imperial capital filled with cultural performances and vibrant street life. The weather is pleasant, with cool breezes and clear skies – perfect for exploring the historic Citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas.
  • Another top destination is Hoi An, which transforms into a glowing wonderland during the full moon and Tet festivities. Lanterns light up the ancient town, creating a romantic and colorful atmosphere. You can stroll through heritage streets, sample traditional New Year treats, and even join locals for Tet celebrations.

Whether you’re seeking culture, color, or quiet charm, Hue and Hoi An are among the best places to visit Vietnam in Februaryoffering a blend of history and holiday spirit you won’t forget.

Best places to visit Vietnam in March

  • March is a fantastic month for outdoor adventures, with dry and warm weather across much of Vietnam. One of the top spots this time of year is Da Lat, a cool mountain town known for its pine forests, waterfalls, and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with color in March, and you can enjoy cycling around Xuan Huong Lake, visiting the Flower Garden, or hiking to Datanla Falls.
  • For dramatic landscapes, head to Ninh Binh in northern Vietnam. This area is often called “Ha Long Bay on land” for its limestone peaks and winding rivers. Take a rowboat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An, passing caves and rice fields, or hike to Mua Cave Viewpoint for panoramic views.

Thanks to its balance of fresh air and natural beauty, Da Lat and Ninh Binh are among the best places to visit Vietnam in March, especially for those who enjoy scenic views and quiet moments in nature.

Best Places to Visit Vietnam in April

  • April is one of the best times for adventure travel in Vietnam, with warm, dry weather in both the north and center. If you’re looking for something thrilling, head to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province. This UNESCO-listed park is famous for its vast cave systems, including Paradise Cave and the world’s largest – Son Doong Cave. It’s perfect for trekking, caving, and jungle exploration.
  • Outside the caves, you can explore peaceful villages and riverside landscapes. The Chay River and Nuoc Mooc Stream offer kayaking, swimming, and eco-tourism experiences, all while surrounded by lush jungle and limestone cliffs.

Whether you’re navigating underground worlds or relaxing in nature, Phong Nha is one of the best places to visit Vietnam in April – especially for adventurous travelers looking to go off the beaten path.

Best places to visit Vietnam in May

  • May is the perfect month to enjoy Vietnam’s beaches before the summer crowds arrive. One of the top places to visit is Hoi An, where warm weather, golden sand, and calm seas create an ideal coastal escape. You can combine lazy afternoons at An Bang Beach with visits to the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town. May also offers a great chance to explore Hoi An’s countryside by bicycle, passing rice paddies and river villages.
  • Another great option is Da Nang, just a short drive from Hoi An. With its clean beaches, modern hotels, and scenic spots like Marble Mountains and Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang is a great mix of nature and city fun.

Whether you’re craving a beach break or cultural charm, Hoi An and Da Nang are among the best places to visit Vietnam in May, with long sunny days and just the right balance of relaxation and discovery.

Best Places to Visit Vietnam in June

  • June marks the beginning of Vietnam’s summer, and it’s the perfect time to discover less-visited coastal destinations. One such place is Quy Nhon, a quiet beach town in central Vietnam. With turquoise waters, fresh seafood, and fewer tourists, Quy Nhon offers a peaceful and authentic experience. You can explore hidden beaches like Ky Co, take a boat ride to islands, or visit local fishing villages.
  • If you’re looking for a tropical island experience, Con Dao is another top choice. This remote archipelago offers crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and a quiet escape from the mainland. It’s also home to important historical sites from the French colonial era.

For a laid-back seaside getaway away from the crowds, Quy Nhon and Con Dao are two of the best places to visit Vietnam in June – offering beauty, solitude, and sunshine.

Best places to visit Vietnam in July

  • July is one of the hottest months in Vietnam, so it’s the perfect time to escape to the highlands. Sapa, located in the far north, offers cooler temperatures and dramatic scenery. Rice terraces are lush and green this time of year, and you can enjoy treks to ethnic minority villages like Ta Phin or Ban Ho. While occasional rains may occur, the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
  • For an even wilder experience, consider Ha Giang. This northern frontier is home to jaw-dropping mountain passes, limestone peaks, and remote villages untouched by mass tourism. Renting a motorbike to explore the Ha Giang Loop is a favorite among adventure travelers.

If you’re searching for fresh air, rugged beauty, and cultural encounters, Sapa and Ha Giang are among the best places to visit Vietnam in July offering a refreshing contrast to the summer heat.

Best places to visit in August

  • August is a great time to explore a mix of beach and nature in central Vietnam. Start with Da Nang, where you can enjoy the coastline, sample local seafood, and visit the impressive Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills. The city’s beaches are ideal for swimming and sunbathing before the rainy season starts later in the month.
  • Pair your visit with a trip to Bach Ma National Park, a lesser-known gem located between Hue and Da Nang. With its cool forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views from the summit, Bach Ma is perfect for a day hike and escape into nature.
  • For travelers looking to balance seaside fun with mountain adventure, Da Nang and Bach Ma are among the Best places to visit in August, offering diverse landscapes and cooler breezes before the wet season sets in.

Best places to visit Vietnam in September

  • September is rice harvest season in Vietnam’s northern mountains, making it one of the most photogenic times to visit. Mu Cang Chai, located in Yen Bai Province, is famous for its golden terraced rice fields. The scenery is especially stunning when viewed from spots like La Pan Tan or Mam Xoi Hill. Trekking through local villages allows you to experience traditional farming life and ethnic cultures up close.
  • Pu Luong Nature Reserve, closer to Hanoi, is another great option for those short on time. Its mix of rice terraces, forests, and stilt-house villages creates a peaceful retreat from city life. The weather is cooler, and the landscapes are vibrant after summer rains.
  • Whether you’re chasing golden views or local encounters, Mu Cang Chai and Pu Luong are among the Best places to visit Vietnam in Septemberespecially for nature lovers and photographers.

Best Places to Visit Vietnam in October

  • October is one of the best months for travel across Vietnam, especially in the north. The weather is dry, skies are clear, and temperatures are pleasant. It’s a great time to visit Halong Bay, where you can cruise among limestone islands, kayak into hidden lagoons, and enjoy stunning sunsets on deck. Fewer tourists and smooth waters make this an ideal month for overnight cruises.
  • Nearby, Cat Ba Island is another top choice. It offers beaches, hiking in Cat Ba National Park, and boat trips to explore quieter parts of Lan Ha Bay.
  • For breathtaking seascapes and a peaceful atmosphere, Halong Bay and Cat Ba are the best places to visit Vietnam in October, especially if you’re looking for scenic relaxation with cooler temperatures.

Best places to visit Vietnam in November

  • As the south enters its dry season, November is perfect for exploring the Mekong Delta. Head to Can Tho, the region’s hub, and experience early morning boat rides through Cai Rang Floating Market. Watch as locals trade produce from boat to boat and enjoy fresh tropical fruits right on the water.
  • The weather is warm and dry, making it easy to navigate the maze of canals by sampan, visit traditional workshops, or cycle through riverfront villages. November also brings green rice paddies and blooming lotus fields.

If you’re interested in slow travel and authentic cultural experiences, the Mekong Delta and Can Tho are among the best places to visit Vietnam in November, offering a peaceful slice of rural life.

Best places to visit Vietnam in December

  • December marks the start of Vietnam’s peak tourist season, with pleasant weather across the country. It’s an excellent time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, where the festive atmosphere kicks in with lights, shopping, and holiday events. The city is lively yet less humid, making it perfect for sightseeing around landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, War Remnants Museum, or the rooftop bars of District 1.
  • If you’re dreaming of a beach break, head to Phu Quoc Island. With sunshine, clear waters, and palm-lined beaches, it’s a top spot for winter sun. Snorkeling, island hopping, and sunset cruises round out a tropical holiday.

For both vibrant city life and island relaxation, Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc are the Best places to visit Vietnam in December, especially for a festive end-of-year escape.

Plan Your Journey with Vietnam Private Tours

No matter what time of year you choose to travel, Vietnam offers something truly special each month – whether it’s misty mountain treks, cultural festivals, or peaceful beach escapes. At Vietnam Private Tours, we specialize in crafting custom itineraries that match the best destinations with the perfect timing for your trip. From private guided tours in Hanoi and Sapa to luxury cruises in Ha Long Bay and family beach holidays in Phu Quoc, our local team is here to make your journey smooth, authentic, and unforgettable.

Let us help you explore Vietnam at your own pace, with expert advice and personalized service every step of the way. Contact us today to start planning your ideal trip – designed around your schedule, your interests, and your travel dreams.

Explore Vietnam & Indochina with our multi-day adventures, perfect for riders of any skill level. Trust in our quality bikes, expert guides, and exceptional support for an amazing experience.

100% Tailor-made

Your entire vacation is designed around your requirements. Explore your interests at your own speed. Select your preferred style of accommodations. Create the perfect trip with the help of our specialists.

Expert knowledge

All our specialists have traveled extensively or lived in their specialist regions. The same specialist will handle your trip from start to finish. Make the most of your time and budget.

The best guides

Make the difference between a good trip and an outstanding one. Hand-picked by us or our local partners as the best available. Offering more than just dates and names, they strive to offer real insight into their country.

Connect with a certified specialist to begin planning your trip.

Feel free to call one of our experts or schedule a video appointment for personalized ideas and advice.

    • Sothy
    • Asia Specialist
    • Emily
    • Thailand and Asia Specialist
    • Stephen
    • Vietnam Specialist

Get the latest from Vietnam Private Tours: Sign up to our newsletter

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Give us a call: +84 902 011 200

Send an email: info@vietnamprivatetours.com

Or fill in the form below and we’ll be in touch