Our Gurus have been exploring Vietnam for decades, and we're eager to share our tips and tricks as to the best times to visit this stunning nation. Take your time travelling the length of the country if you can. Beginning either in Hanoi, to the north, or in the southern commercial capital of Ho Chi Minh City, you can journey through coastal towns, mountain villages, between paddy fields and along mighty rivers as you discover one of the most fascinating countries in Asia. Whether you're holidaying solo, with family or as a couple, Vietnam promises mouthwatering cuisine, beautiful art and architecture, and spectacular landscapes. The people are terrific, too, and it's little wonder that visitors return to Vietnam again and again.
Vietnam is a long, narrow country, and the climate varies widely across different regions. Temperatures broadly range between 25–35°C in most areas, with warm, dry weather expected between December and April. Visit during this period for sunshine and blue skies. December is the coolest month of the year, with temperatures (and humidity) rising from January onwards, before the rains begin in May.
Mountainous Sapa is Vietnam's most notable exception when it comes to climate, with temperatures hovering around 15–20°C during the dry season, which runs from October to March. April to September are the rainiest months in the mountains. Dalat, close to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, sits at a higher elevation than the city; here, temperatures peak at around 27°C. These are particularly appealing destinations for those seeking a break from the heat.
Vietnam's rainy season falls between May and October each year. Temperatures and humidity rise from January onwards, culminating in dramatic monsoon deluges. November is shoulder season, and some rainfall is expected. For those dreaming of blue-sky beach days, we'd suggest avoiding the monsoon season, but if you're keen to discover Vietnam's cities, towns and villages, it's still a fantastic time to travel.
The rains are refreshing, hotels offer reasonable rates, and there's something magical about cosying up in a bar, café, museum or hotel as it pours outside. Dramatic monsoon deluges rarely last for an entire day, so there's still ample opportunity to explore between showers. We're big fans of HCMC (also known as Saigon) in the rainy season. Pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella, and be prepared to adjust your plans, sheltering under cover when it pours.
Festivals and celebrations are held throughout the year in Vietnam, often with parades and fireworks. Lunar New Year, or Tết, is Vietnam’s largest and most important festival. Held in January or February, this is a wonderfully exciting time to be in Vietnam; though flight and hotel prices may be higher as so many Vietnamese return from abroad for the festivities.
Vietnamese Independence Day promises further daytime parades and large-scale firework displays, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh declared the Independence of the Nation of Vietnam from France in Ha Noi’s Ba Dinh Square on 2nd September 1945, and the day has become a proud annual celebration of national identity.
The country also hosts myriad smaller-scale festivals. Travellers to the Mekong Delta in early December can expect to experience a lively Khmer festival known as Oóc Om Bóc, for instance. This is a fascinating insight into Vietnam's rich cultural diversity.
The Vietnamese are famously warm and welcoming; and never more so than during festivals. As always, it's well worth researching particular traditions if your trip coincides with any big festivals, and being respectful of those celebrating.
Combined trips to both Vietnam and Cambodia are wonderful. Travel between November and February for cooler, dry weather with plenty of sunshine. You'll find that the humidity builds in March and April, making it increasingly hot for exploring.
The natural point at which to cross the border between Cambodia and Vietnam is around the mighty Mekong Delta. This fertile, rice-growing region is also a haven for wildlife and birds, and a great destination for a few tranquil, nature-focused days in a lovely hotel. Once on the Cambodian side, buzzy Phnom Penh is within easy reach.
Vietnam's beaches are at their best between December and April, during the dry season. Travel outside the Christmas and Easter school holidays if you can, for better hotel rates and availability. You'll find great hotel deals in the shoulder season months of May and November, when the risk of rain is higher but there are still a few hours of sunshine expected each day.
There are excellent seaside hotels and resorts on Vietnam's east coast, in lively Da Nang, as well as on the less-visited southern islands. Our Gurus' guide to 12 of the Best Beach Resorts in Vietnam is a good starting point for planning your trip. Phu Quoc is immensely popular with families, whilst the more remote Con Dao Islands are ideal for indulgent honeymoons.
If you're travelling to Vietnam as a family, we'd suggest aiming for the December to April season. The school holidays (at Christmas, Easter and February half term) tend to be busy, so it's well worth planning your trip in advance. Those with very young children can avoid the school holidays and journey to Vietnam in late January for beautiful weather without the crowds.
There are some brilliant family-friendly hotels in Vietnam, with activities and facilities aplenty, whether at the beach or in the city. Our guide to 12 of the Best Family Hotels in Vietnam is full of ideas for a memorable holiday.
Vietnam's vibrant cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, have tremendous appeal. The country's landscapes, from the mountains and hills around Sapa and Dalat to the Mekong Delta and the islands, are also wonderfully varied. This Southeast Asian nation's rich history has long fascinated travellers, and no trip is complete without exploring the former imperial capital of Hue, or riverside Hoi An.
There are some particularly attractive hotels in UNESCO-listed Hoi An, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. Known for its pretty painted buildings, exceptional silk tailoring, and laid-back charm, Hoi An is well worth a few days on any traveller's itinerary. Expect chic boutiques, artists' studios and eateries aplenty along the narrow, lantern-lit lanes which lead to the Thu Bon River.
Hanoi (Hoàn Kiếm, Vietnam)
A Hanoi icon since its opening in 1901, this grand historic hotel promises a sophisticated fusion of French colonial-era charm and more contemporary glamour. Generous rooms & suites are housed in two wings, and guests are invited to gather in terrific bars & eateries. A timeless city landmark.
Ninh Binh (Ninh Binh, Vietnam)
Styled with traditional Vietnamese furnishings and 21st-century facilities, this charming resort prides itself on its sustainability, commitment to the environment & organic menu. Asian & Western dishes are served in a choice of restaurants. Spacious rooms boast striking mountain views.
Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
In prime location since 1925, the Hotel Majestic is an art deco masterpiece of columns, arches, chandeliers and stained glass domes. Its rooftop bars and Vietnamese restaurants offer spectacular views of the Saigon River. Undoubtedly the heart of the pulsating city centre.
Phú Quốc (Vietnam)
A hamlet of thatched huts spread across a wild garden, sloping down to the private beach, on Phu Quoc island. Private huts have luxurious open air bathrooms, well situated terraces and netted four-poster beds. Cuisine and views are second to none. Simple, beautiful and wonderfully unspoilt.
Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
Brilliant 5-star hotel slap bang in the middle of downtown Saigon. A modern hotel with French colonial-inspired interiors. Undoubtedly home to one of the city’s best bars, Lam Son - it’s packed at the weekends, get there early! Rooms are decorated in muted tones, some with separate living areas.
Con Dao Islands (Con Dao Dist, Vietnam)
A super luxurious island hideaway, perched on the edge of a National Park. Each elegant eco-villa faces a private pool area. One of the trendy restaurants, By The Market, is set up as market stalls serving organic street food. Unique and utterly lovely, with a sensational five-star spa.
Hue (Phu Loc District, Vietnam)
A stunning eco-resort on a gorgeous white sand beach. Individual villas with traditional design feature private pools and dining areas. An award-winning spa will soothe any aches and pains, whilst a host of activities keep all entertained. Excellent Vietnamese cuisine & an utterly spoiling spot.
My Tho (Vietnam)
A lovely island hotel with views over the Mekong River. Authentic interiors marry modern style with traditional materials, and the odd splash of history from old family photos and artefacts. The food is an exceptional mix of French and Vietnamese, the best of both worlds. A laid-back haven.
Sapa (Vietnam)
A unique ecolodge set in a remote and beautiful location overlooking the Hoang Lien National Park. Carefully crafted bungalows are made using natural material and offer both luxury and seclusion. The two infinity pools are simply spectacular, plus there's a spoiling spa. A perfect escape to nature.
Sapa (Vietnam)
A luxury resort close to Sapa's old town yet surrounded by scenic countryside. Light rooms, suites & private villas with endless mountain views also boast traditional textiles & natural wood. The perfect hideaway, with a soothing spa, heated pool & charming pop-up market within leafy grounds.
Phú Quốc
A glamorous resort on Phu Quoc's dazzling Long Beach. Opened in 2022, this luxurious seaside haven promises sleek contemporary design in its 176 suites and 126 villas — many of which have private pools. Expect soothing tones, clean lines, expansive ocean views and all the mod-cons. Pure indulgence.
Nha Trang (Vietnam)
An impressive beach resort with 212 indulgent rooms, suites & multi-bedroom villas boasting striking sea views. Interiors offer a chic spin on colonial style with pitched ceilings, big beds & tiled floors. A paradise for active beachgoers of all ages, who will be thrilled by the array of activities.
Hoi An (Vietnam)
Showcasing Hoi An's sensational silk traditions, this smart hotel offers spacious rooms & suites set around two refreshing swimming pools. Private balconies overlook leafy gardens, whilst rooms have pretty tiled floors, high ceilings, modern bathrooms & embroidered silk accents. Lovely.
Hoi An (Vietnam)
A charming boutique bolthole with characterful interiors in historic Hoi An. The 30 airy rooms & suites — some with river views — feature traditional lanterns, patterned tiled floors and warm golden tones. Tranquil and intimate, this friendly little hotel has long been a romantic favourite.
Hanoi (Vietnam)
An exceptionally glamorous hotel hidden behind a striking art nouveau façade near the enchanting Old Quarter. Inspired by the golden age of opera, designer Bill Bensley has created a flamboyant world of theatrical restaurants with glittering chandeliers & lavish suites with marble bathrooms. Superb!
Can Tho (Vietnam)
A cool, contemporary retreat on the Hau River, this design-led resort has minimalist interiors, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing garden, lake & river views. Hide away in one of the rooms or pool villas, each with wooden ceilings and a soothing palette of creams & greys. Luxury in the Delta.
Hoi An (Vietnam)
Beachside boutique stay in Hoi An, just steps from the sand. Earthy, minimalist interiors with handmade touches create a calm, lived-in feel. There’s a cafe, bikes to borrow, and a small terrace for slow mornings. A quiet, design-led base ideal for exploring both the coast and countryside.
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