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The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

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Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks. 

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary. 

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

• High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April 
• Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December 
• Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season. 

Bang The Tran/Getty Images

The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south. 

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss. 

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy. 

Meet the Expert

• Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
• Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz. 

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities. 

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April. 

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with. 

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A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train. 

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens. 

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Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators). 

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. 

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season. 

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns. 

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts. 

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10. 

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Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Vietnam 2024

Vietnam experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Generally, the best time to visit most of Vietnam is from November through April, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is relatively low.

Vietnam doesn't seem very big, but it's very diverse, and the weather varies a lot from north to south. Planning the best time to go to Vietnam can be tricky. We would like to give you some insider suggestions and tips, and help you to find the right place to explore at any time of year.

• Best Times to Visit Vietnam
• Worst Times to Visit Vietnam
• Travel Guide By Month

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Best Times to Visit Vietnam for Great Weather, Low Prices

As mentioned above, November to April is the best period to visit Vietnam . However, this can depend on which part of the country you plan to visit, what activities you want to do, budget, and weather preferences.

1) Best Time to Visit for Great Weather

Northern Vietnam , including Hanoi and Halong Bay, has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit this region is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier. The summer months from May to September can be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons and heavy rain.

Central Vietnam , including Hue, Hoi An, and Danang, has a tropical climate with two seasons: a dry season from January to August and a rainy season from September to December. The best time to visit this region is from February to June when the weather is dry and mild.

If you and your children are planning to visit during the summer holidays ( between June and August), you could enjoy sunny and blue skies but expect high temperatures around 35°C (95°F) and crowds. Our 2-Week Vietnam Family-with-Teenagers Holiday is specially designed for a family summer vacation.

In Southern Vietnam , including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the rainy season runs from May to October and the dry season runs from November to April. The best time to visit this region is from November to April when the weather is dry and pleasant.

2) Best Times to Visit for Low Prices

Vietnam is a very affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers typically find the steepest discounts on accommodations, flights, and tours during the rainy season (May to October in north and south Vietnam, September to December in central Vietnam).

Cultural and historical cities, like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, are less affected by the weather. And they have plenty of indoor activities, such as cooking classes and making lanterns. Thus, if you are flexible and prepared, the low season promises smaller crowds, big savings, and still plenty of things that can be enjoyed.

3) An Insider's Guide to the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

In our experience, if your travel time is flexible, the ideal times to travel are the period just before the peak season and the period just after the peak season (the periods of early May and late October) . At this time, the weather is still fine, crowds die down, and hotels are cheaper.

Check out more tips on planning your trip to Vietnam or contact our specialist , who would tailor-make an itinerary for you based on your requirements including available travel times.

The Worst Times to Travel to Vietnam (Monsoon and Typhoon Seasons)

If you don't like rain, you should consider avoiding the rainy season.

The truth is that even in the peak of the rainy season, the rainfall is not persistent , mainly coming in short downpours of one or two hours. You can still enjoy most of a day without much inconvenience.

One thing that needs to be noted is the disruptive typhoon season in north and central Vietnam . Your Halong Bay cruise can be canceled or delayed if you travel between July and August, when the bay is at risk of typhoons and storms. Your trip in coastal places of central Vietnam, such as Hoi An, may have to be interrupted due to typhoon flooding, usually occurring between September to October.

Although the rainy season has its drawbacks, it also means lower crowding and better prices . With a well-planned and flexible schedule, you can still enjoy a great trip.

Our flexible private tours are guaranteed to make your trip smoother and easier. You would get timely support and expert contingency plans, if the weather causes delays/cancellations or itinerary changes. 

Contact us to start your worry-free Vietnam trip.

Vietnam Travel Guide by Month

Vietnam weather in january.

• Northern Vietnam: cool and dry, 15–20°C (59–68°F)
• Central Vietnam: mild and damp, 22–27°C (72–81°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm and dry, 26–32°C (79–90°F)

January is generally a cool/mild and dry/damp month in the northern and central regions of Vietnam. However, it can be quite cold in the mountainous far north in places such as Sapa, with temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F). The southern region tends to be warmer and dry.

January is a great time to visit most parts of Vietnam. However, if you're hoping to visit the beaches, keep in mind that the weather may be a bit cool for swimming or sunbathing.

Vietnam's Lunar New Year, known as Tet, sometimes falls in late January, and it can be an exciting time to visit Vietnam to experience the festive atmosphere and traditions. But get ready for more crowds and higher prices.

Learn more about Vietnam in January and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in February

• Northern Vietnam: mild and dry, 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F)
• Central Vietnam: mild and dry, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm and very dry, 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)

February is a good time to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather and little rainfall. The north can still be cool, while the south really starts to warm up.

February is considered part of the high season for tourism in Vietnam, but it's not as busy as December and January. However, it's important to note that the Lunar New Year (Tet) usually falls in February, and many Vietnamese people travel during this time, so transportation and accommodations may be more crowded and expensive. Book hotels as early as possible.

Learn more about Vietnam in February and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in March

• Northern Vietnam: warm and dry, 15–25°C (59–77°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm and dry, 20–30°C (68–86°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot and very dry, 23–34°C (73–93°F)

As winter comes to an end, the weather in Vietnam becomes warm in March. The north and central regions can still be cool in the evenings and mornings, while the south tends to be hot and rainless.

March is a good month for outdoor activities like exploring the countryside around Hanoi and Hoi An. It's also a good time to visit the beaches in central Vietnam, as the sea is usually calm and the weather is warm.

Learn more about Vietnam in March and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in April

• Northern Vietnam: warm, moderately rainy, 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F)
• Central Vietnam: sunny and hot, 22°C to 33°C (72°F to 91°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, low rainfall, 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)

April is generally a good time to visit Vietnam as it's mostly dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from around 20–30°C (68–86°F) in most regions. However, it can be hot and humid in the south, and sudden showers may come and go quickly.

It is a great time to explore Vietnam's natural beauty, such as cruising on Halong Bay, enjoying the beaches in central Vietnam, or visiting the Mekong Delta in the south.

Learn more about Vietnam in April and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in May

• Northern Vietnam: warm, medium rainfall, 25–30°C (77–86°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, light showers, 28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, high rainfall, 30–35°C (86–95°F)

May is the beginning of the hot season in Vietnam, particularly in the central and southern regions. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C in some areas.

A private tour with a flexible travel pace is essential to avoid the burning sunshine and have an enjoyable trip. You can choose to start your days earlier in the morning, have a siesta, and go out later in the afternoon, or plan some indoor activities such as cooking class.

The bright side of this month is that you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices.

Learn more about Vietnam in May and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in June

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 26–33°C (79–91°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, light showers, 26–35°C (79–95°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot and wet, 25–32°C (77–90°F)

June is one of the hottest months of the year in Vietnam. It is also the start of the rainy season in the north and south, with regular thunderstorms and heavy rain.

June can be a challenging time to visit Vietnam due to the hot and humid weather, especially in the south. However, if you're comfortable with the heat and enjoy outdoor activities, it can still be a good time to visit central Vietnam and enjoy the beaches. Just be prepared for heavy rain showers in some regions, and make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Learn more about Vietnam in June and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in July

• Central Vietnam: hot, humid, 25–34°C (77–93°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 24–32°C (75–90°F)

July is a hot and humid month in most parts of Vietnam, with regular rain showers due to the summer monsoon season.

However, you should see more pleasant weather in central Vietnam (Danang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang), where sunny days and blue skies are perfect for a beach vacation. Expect accommodation prices to rise and crowds to thicken due to Vietnamese students' summer holiday. Book your hotels several months in advance.

If you travel to northern Vietnam and southern Vietnam, you're suggested to take rain gear, choose more indoor activities, and always have a "tour plan B" for each day.

Learn more about Vietnam in July and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in August

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 26–32°C (79–90°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, medium rainfall, 25–34°C (77–93°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 23–32°C (73–90°F)

August is a hot and rainy month in north and south Vietnam. August experiences storms or heavy rains, which might affect your trip in Halong Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. The good news is that the rains come and go quickly.

The central region of Vietnam including Hue, Danang, and Hoi An is the best choice, due to its sunnier weather. Be prepared for crowded beaches as domestic travel is at a peak because of summer vacations. Contact us for an early booking!

Learn more about Vietnam in August and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in September

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 25–32°C (77–90°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, very high rainfall, 24–32°C (75–90°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, very high rainfall, 23–32°C (73–90°F)

September is a transitional month in Vietnam, with the weather starting to shift from the rainy season to the dry season or vice versa.

North Vietnam edges towards the end of its summer, although you can still expect plenty of hot weather as well as some rain. Central Vietnam enters its extremely torrential rainy season, with a high chance of storms or typhoons. Southern Vietnam also experiences hot temperature and frequent rain.

The best places to go are in Northern Vietnam including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa.

Learn more about Vietnam in September and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in October

• Northern Vietnam: warm, medium rainfall, 22–29°C (66–84°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, torrential storms, 23–29°C (73–84°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, high rainfall, 23–31°C (73–88°F)

October is one of the best months to visit North and South Vietnam, with moderate temperatures in between the showers. The north is warm, while the south is still hot sometimes.

However, October is the worst time for a vacation in central Vietnam, which faces a high risk of typhoons and violent storms, leading to flooding in lowland cities.

Learn more about Vietnam in October and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in November

• Northern Vietnam: warm, light rain, 19–26°C (66–79°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, torrential rain, 21–27°C (70–80°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, medium rain, 22–31°C (72–88°F)

November is the start of the dry winter season in the north, with cooler temperatures and less humidity/rainfall, which brings large numbers of travelers flocking to Hanoi and Halong Bay.

Meanwhile, the central region is still in the peak of its soaked and stormy typhoon season. If you are travelling in this region (Hue, Danang, Hoi An) in November, keep your itinerary flexible in case of flight delays or cancellations.

The south begins its dry season, with medium-to-low rainfall and sunny skies more likely than not. This month is a great time to visit HCMC, the Mekong Delta, and offshore islands such as Phú Quốc.

Learn more about Vietnam in November and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in December

• Northern Vietnam: becomes mild and dry, 15–22°C (59–72°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, high rainfall, 20–25°C (68–77°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm/hot, low rainfall, 21–32°C (70–90°F)

It's all good news in the north and south with some of the best conditions of the year, moderate temperature, and blue skies. Hanoi and the north experience excellent dry and clear days, however it can be cold, especially in the evenings. The southern islands of Phu Quoc can be a top pick for your beach vacation.

In central regions of Vietnam, the rains start to decrease, but stormy weather is still a strong possibility, especially early in December.

The Christmas and New Year holidays bring Vietnam into another high season for travel. Make sure you book a late December tour at least 3 months in advance.

Learn more about Vietnam in December and the best places to visit .

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The best times in the year to visit Vietnam

Feb 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Pick the right time for your visit to Vietnam with this seasonal guide © golero / Getty Images

Vietnam serves up a generous dose of Southeast Asian magic at any time of year, but some seasons are easier for travelers than others.

A lot depends on what you are looking for from your trip – if it's time on the beach on the central coast, you probably want to stick to the drier months from February to June, before the peak summer crowds arrive; if you're here to go trekking in the highlands, October to March is the optimum season.

It's important to be aware that the weather can vary widely as you travel around Vietnam. The country spans 1650km (1025 miles) from north to south, taking in tall mountains in the north and flat, tropical wetlands in the Mekong Delta . In the north, it can be positively chilly in winter; from December to February, the highlands around Sapa can see snow while the Delta basks at 25°C (77°F).

To help you plan a perfect trip, here's our guide on the best times to visit Vietnam.

July and August are the top months for beach lovers

The hot, sticky high season from July to August is the busiest time of year to visit Vietnam, coinciding with favorable beach weather on the central coast. Demand for flights soars, and prices for accommodations can increase by as much as 50% in resort areas such as Danang and Nha Trang . Book flights and hotels well in advance and expect crowds on the sand at all the popular resorts.

The rest of the country is warm and humid, and sunny days are punctuated by spectacular summer monsoon downpours and even the odd typhoon on the coast. This is a poor time of year for visiting the north, as trekking trails turn into quagmires, and Hanoi and Halong Bay are drenched by heavy showers. On the festival calendar, Trung Nguyen (Wandering Souls Day, also known as Vu Lan) in August sees huge spreads of food left out for the spirits.

December to March is the season to visit Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Winter in Vietnam tends to be drier and cooler than the sticky summer, and the weather can be downright chilly in the north, particularly at higher elevations. However, this is the perfect time to explore Vietnam's characterful northern and southern capitals, with manageable temperatures and low humidity taking the sting out of exploring Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) on foot.

If you want to see more of the country, this is also a great time to head out to the Mekong Delta and the island of Phu Quoc , with warm (not scorching) temperatures and clear skies. As April approaches, however, the mercury starts to climb to uncomfortable levels down south.

Another obstacle to easy travel is the Tet festival – officially, Tet Nguyen Dan – marking the Vietnamese lunar New Year, in late January or early February. The whole country is on the move and prices for transport and hotels shoot skywards. 

In December, the biennial Flower Festival brings fragrant blooms, pageants, wine and music to Dalat , while Buon Ma Thuot's annual coffee festival in March attracts lovers of a good brew. Christmas Day – known in Vietnam as Le Giang Sinh – is a big deal for the Catholic community in Ho Chi Minh City.

Visit from April to June and September to November to avoid the crowds

The low season in Vietnam coincides with the transition from the cool, dry winter to the hot, humid summer and vice versa. From April to June and from September to November, the weather is often unsettled but rarely extreme. You may get days of glorious sunshine, but there will also be days of rain, so pack for both dry and wet weather.

These transition periods are good times to avoid crowds at the sights, save money and explore the whole country, as the weather is not notably awful anywhere. The October to November window is particularly favorable for exploring the islands and outcrops around Halong Bay (and its calmer and less commercial neighbor, Bai Tu Long Bay ), with more dry days than wet days and mild temperatures.

There are some good festivals too. Held in Hue in April, May or June, the biennial Hue Festival fills the city's historic citadel with color, music and lights, while the Nha Trang Sea Festival brings a similar party mood to Nha Trang every second June. Vietnamese Buddhists celebrate the life of the Buddha with extravagant street processions in May for Phat Dan – best experienced in Ninh Binh or Ho Chi Minh City. Pyrotechnics enthusiasts of all kinds gather in Danang in June (or sometimes July) for the explosive Danang Fireworks Festival.

In the pre-winter season, aim to be in Hanoi on September 2, as Vietnam National Day brings energetic rallies and fireworks to Ba Dinh Square and boat races to Hoan Kiem Lake . Tasty festival foods appear everywhere for Trung Thu, the Mid-Autumn Festival, in September or October, while dragon boats race on the waterways of the Mekong Delta for the Khmer Ok Om Bok Festival in October or November.

Visiting Vietnam during the typhoon season

Technically, the typhoon season in the Northwest Pacific runs from May to November, but in Vietnam, the biggest risk of storms is from August to September. The country sees four to six typhoons in an average year, marked by heavy rain and strong winds. Occasional severe storms lead to flooding and disruption to transport, particularly by air and sea.

The areas most affected by typhoons are the southern coast and the far north coast (including Halong Bay). The weather tends to be most severe near the shore – inland, you may just get heavy rain and the odd power cut. This is a time to be cautious but not paranoid – monitor weather reports and prioritize land-based activities over boat trips, beaches, and diving.

This article was first published Jun 10, 2021 and updated Feb 22, 2024.

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The Best Times To Book The Cheapest Flights to Vietnam (and Pro Tips with Google Filghts)

Are you dreaming of exploring the lively streets of Hanoi, cruising through the serene waters of Halong Bay, or savoring the spicy flavors of authentic Vietnamese pho?

Vietnam is calling, and I’m here to guide you through the maze of finding budget-friendly flights to this enchanting destination.

Key Takeaways:

• Best Booking Times: For the most affordable flights to Vietnam, consider March, April, and May as your prime booking months .
• Flight costs vary across regions; cheaper options are typically available outside peak tourist seasons and major holidays.
• Strategic Booking: Advance planning, weekday travel, and staying alert to special deals can lead to additional savings (more on this later).
• 1 Best Times and Places to Book Your Adventure
• 3 Smart Booking Strategies for Extra Savings
• 4 Pro Tips: My Strategy with Google Flights
• 5 Wrapping It Up

Best Times and Places to Book Your Adventure

Before we start talking about the amazing trip to Vietnam, let’s first look at some really important numbers. We’re going to talk about the cheapest flights from the USA to Vietnam from January to November.

These numbers come from the Google Flights Price Graph. It’s a cool tool that shows us the best prices for each month. Knowing when flights are cheapest will help us pick the best time to buy your tickets.

Let’s take a flight from San Jose, California to Hanoi, Vietnam as an example.

December’s pricing data isn’t shown on the Google Flights price graph we referenced, but this month generally sees higher flight prices due to the Christmas and New Year’s holiday seasons. For a more detailed explanation, please scroll down.

Timing is your wallet’s best friend. The most budget-friendly months to book flights to Vietnam are March, April, and especially May .

During these months, the demand for flights is lower, which often leads to more competitive pricing. Flight prices can be significantly lower than the peak travel month of June, offering substantial savings.

You can expect to see flight prices decrease by 5% to as much as 50% compared to high season rates.

For example, a flight costing around $800 or more in June might drop to about $450 in April, even $400 in May, demonstrating the potential savings available during these optimal booking periods.

Regional Climate, Seasonal Trends, and Cost Implications

When you’re thinking about the best time to fly to Vietnam, it’s like solving a puzzle. You have to look at when people in Vietnam like to travel and when people from other countries want to visit. The prices of flights can give us some cool clues.

From January to May, even though the weather is nice in Vietnam, the flights are not too expensive.

This might be because after the big Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year), not many people in Vietnam are traveling. So, airlines make the tickets cheaper for people coming from other countries.

But in June, something interesting happened. The weather gets really hot and it’s not the usual time for tourists to visit Vietnam. However, the ticket prices go up!

This is probably because a lot of people in Vietnam start going on summer vacations. So, even though it’s hot, more people are flying, and the prices go up.

After June, from July to November, things get quieter again. The summer rush is over, and it’s not yet a busy time for tourists from other countries. So, the flight prices go down and it becomes a good time to get cheaper tickets to Vietnam.

So, when you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, remember to think about when people in Vietnam like to travel, not just the weather or tourist seasons. This way, you can find the best time to fly without spending too much money!

On the other hand, December is a busy travel time worldwide because of the holidays, like Christmas and New Year’s. Many people are looking to fly either for vacations or to visit family.

Plus, in Vietnam, the weather in December is usually nice, especially in the south, making it a great time for tourists to visit. All these factors together mean that more people want to fly, so the airlines charge more for tickets.

Understanding Vietnam’s seasonal pricing trends is crucial. Be mindful of the significant hike in airfares during popular travel times like summer, Tet holiday (usually late January), and key national holidays such as April 30th (Reunification Day), and May 1st (International Labor Day).

These dates are peak travel times in Vietnam due to national celebrations and public holidays, leading to increased demand for flights and higher prices.

For instance, a flight that might cost around $750 during quieter months could see a substantial increase, potentially soaring above $1200 during these bustling holiday periods and the summer season.

Smart Booking Strategies for Extra Savings

• Advance Bookings: To avoid the steep increase in prices observed in June, it’s advisable to book well in advance, particularly if your travel dates fall in the earlier months of the year.
• Weekday Flights: Flying mid-week can be cheaper than weekend flights.
• Alerts for Deals: Sign up for airline newsletters and fare alerts to catch any surprise deals (See pro tips below).

Pro Tips: My Strategy with Google Flights

To effectively monitor flight prices to Vietnam, it’s beneficial to use Google Flights’ alert system. This tool is not only useful for notifying you about changes in flight prices but also provides access to a price graph.

The price graph is really useful because it shows flight price trends over time. This visual display can help you figure out the best time to book your flight.

Using the Price Graph

• Step 1: Go to Google Flights and input your departure location (e.g. New York) and your destination (e.g. Hanoi, Vietnam).
• Step 2: Click on “Price graph” on the page. It’s a line chart that shows how flight prices have gone up or down over time.
• Step 3: Find the parts of the graph where the line dips down. These dips mean flights were cheaper at those times.

Example: You might see the prices are high in February (due to the Tet holiday) but lower in late March. This tells you that flying in late March could save you money.

Setting Up Price Alerts

• While still on Google Flights, turn on the ‘Track prices’ option for your flight.
• Google will send you an email if the price of your flight goes up or down. This way, you won’t miss any good deals!

Combining Price Graphs and Alerts

• Use what you learned from the price graph to guess when prices might be low.
• If you get an email saying prices have dropped around the time you thought they would be cheap, it’s probably a great time to book your flight.

Wrapping It Up

As you pack your bags for Vietnam, remember that smart planning can lead to significant savings on your flights.

By choosing the right time to book — particularly during the off-peak months of March, April, and May — you can enjoy this beautiful country without overspending.

Each region of Vietnam offers its unique charm, and understanding the seasonal pricing trends can help you navigate your way to the best deals.

With these tips in hand, you’re all set for a memorable and affordable Vietnamese adventure.

Help me plan my trip

Infographic - Best time to visit Vietnam (Travel Guide & Tips 2022)

Vietnam is blessed with cultural and natural attractions throughout the three regions which means each region and destination has its distinct ideal time for visiting. For first-time visitors to Vietnam , worry no longer! In this travel guide, we’ll show you in detail what to notice in the weather in Vietnam, the best time to visit Vietnam, and when and best places to visit Vietnam month to month in the most visualized and easiest way to follow. Are you ready?

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Here are Vietnam weather highlights
• 1.2 Peak Tourism Season in Vietnam
• 2 Best time to visit Vietnam
• 3.1.1 Vietnam Weather in January
• 3.1.2 Where to travel to Vietnam in January
• 3.2.1 How Vietnam’s weather like in February is like?
• 3.2.2 Where to visit Vietnam in February
• 3.3.1 Weather in Vietnam during March
• 3.3.2 Vietnam destinations for March
• 3.4.1 Vietnam weather in April
• 3.4.2 Best places to visit Vietnam in April
• 3.5.1 Weather in Vietnam during May
• 3.5.2 Where to visit in May
• 3.6.1 Vietnam weather in June 
• 3.6.2 Where to go in Vietnam during June
• 3.7.1 Vietnam weather in July
• 3.7.2 Where to visit Vietnam in July
• 3.8.1 Vietnam Weather in August
• 3.8.2 Where to visit in August
• 3.9.1 Vietnam Weather in September
• 3.9.2 Where to visit in September
• 3.10.1 Vietnam Weather in October
• 3.10.2 Where to visit in October
• 3.11.1 Vietnam Weather in November
• 3.11.2 Where to visit in November
• 3.12.1 Vietnam Weather in December
• 3.12.2 Where to visit in December

Brief Guide on Vietnam Weather Characteristics

Here are vietnam weather highlights.

North Vietnam – North Central Vietnam : four seasons with winter lasting from December – February, temperature dropping, and low humidity. Summer from June to August is hot, rainy, and humid.

Central Vietnam : Tropical wet climate or a tropical monsoon and trade-wind littoral climate. The hot temperature is almost all year round. Drier months last from November to April while in the summer months the region suffers from storms and flooding.

South Vietnam : only dry and wet season while the temperature remains high all year round. The wet season lasts from November to April and the wet season is from May to October.

Peak Tourism Season in Vietnam

For foreign tourists, the peak season of tourism in Vietnam starts around December and goes all the way to the end of March of the next year . These months fall right in the dry season of North Vietnam and Central Vietnam while in South Vietnam, it’s just the perfect time of flooding season in the Mekong Delta when life comes back to the vast plains and wet forests.

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s weather month by month (Best places to visit Vietnam in each month)

Vietnam weather in january.

January in Vietnam is one of the best months for tourism activities and also the month with the most diverse weather characteristics throughout the country. January is the first month of the year in the Gregorian calendar but the last month in the Lunar year. This makes the atmosphere in Vietnam generally bustling, festive, and happy. North Vietnam in January is blessed with the prime of winter which brings almost no rain, dry air, and low temperature (avg. 10-15 degrees Celsius). Water activities in Halong Bay, Cat Ba island, and other beaches in north Vietnam are quite impossible because of the cold temperature. In Sapa, there’s a chance that it might snow. Central and South Vietnam in January are warmer than North Vietnam with an average temperature of 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. If you’re seeking some tropical sunlight then we suggest you go south.

Where to travel to Vietnam in January

How Vietnam’s weather like in February is like?

Not much different from January, February has dry, bright weather across the country with temperatures raising southward. This month is also the first month of the lunar new year, so you can you the festive atmosphere of the most important holiday in Vietnam everywhere you go.

North Vietnam still is in wintertime, with clear skies with little rain which bring a certain romantic feeling to the new year since people say if it rains on the first day, the whole year will be lucky. Northern mountainous areas are covered in pastel colors of plum, apricot, and peach blossoms with the backdrop of grey mountains.

The weather in Central and South Vietnam offers a great condition for a beach break with clear, sunny skies and warm seawater. The average temperature is from 25-27 degrees Celsius.

Where to visit Vietnam in February

Like January, you can visit a lot of places in Vietnam during February, especially since February is a season of flowers. As mentioned, this month is lunar new year month, so you should visit major cities to enjoy the culture and cuisine. Come to north Vietnam plateaus to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the natural landscape of spring blossoms. Drift south if you want to work on your tan and enjoy the water. Da Lat also sees the beautiful sight of cherry blossoms at this time of year. If you have more time, you can also combine your Vietnam Trip with Cambodia. February is one of  the best months to visit Vietnam & Cambodia

Weather in Vietnam during March

March is one of the best months to discover Vietnam with ideal weather suitable for all kinds of activities. In North Vietnam, March is not as cold and dry as January and February while in central and south Vietnam, it’s warm and dry. March is the month that many festivals are held throughout the country, of which the most bustling and important is the Perfume Pagoda festival. People from all parts of the country come here to pray for luck, health, and happiness in the upcoming year.

Many central coast cities in this time turn into beach paradises with warm water, mild weather, and pristine culture. Southern islands are still the places to go for high blue sky and sunny beaches.

Vietnam destinations for March

It’s not at all to choose where to visit in Vietnam in March. It’s the month for almost all destinations both famous attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Tay Nguyen at this time has white coffee flowers season blooming all over the place and also the most bustling festival in the area – Elephant Racing Festival.

Vietnam weather in April

April marks the end of tourism peak season in Vietnam. It’s the last month of spring, wrapping up the festive season of Lunar New Year as well as the winter in North Vietnam. From this month onward, the average temperature and humidity throughout the country rise. Still, the weather in March is still much milder than the summer months and there’re still many things to do and places to see at this time of year.

Ninh Binh can be visited almost all year round. In North Vietnam, it’s getting warmer with fewer cold days, and slightly rainier but you can expect plenty of dry days to see around. In Central and South Vietnam, it’s not different much from summer with an average temperature of 25-33 degrees Celsius.

April is also a historical month in Vietnam history, marking the reunification of the whole country after the Vietnam-America War.

• Best places to visit Vietnam in April

Hanoi in April turns vibrant red with the flags and flowers everywhere you go. Perfume Pagoda in the suburb of Hanoi is also in the month it’s most beautiful and less crowded since the festival ended.

April is also the month to visit Vietnam’s best beaches and islands like Halong Bay, Co To Island, and Ly Son . In North Vietnam, it’s the time farmers water the rice fields, making a gorgeous sight of nature. 

In central Vietnam, April is ideal to visit Da Nang city with an average temperature of 27-29 degrees Celsius. The beaches have blue water and calm waves. 

Weather in Vietnam during May

May is the month right before summer hits north Vietnam. You can see the season changing in north Vietnam so blatantly and beautifully. The sun shines, nice breezes, and the temperature rise slightly to 30 degrees Celsius. However, you can barely feel the heat in early May. The rain happens more frequently but also ends quickly.

Throughout the country, the summer holiday for students is about to start so you can feel a certain excitement of Vietnamese people. In central and south Vietnam, the rain starts to happen more but not as frequently as in the north. May is a great time to visit the major cities of Vietnam. Like April, May is also a historical month with two important events: Dien Bien Phu Victory on May 7 and Ho Chi Minh’s Birthday on May 19.

Where to visit in May

Vietnam weather in June 

Where to go in Vietnam during June

Halong bay , southern islands, and coastal line cities are the best destinations in Vietnam during June. Con Dao island has not only endless blue beaches but this month, it’s the month of turtles hatching season. Halong Bay is bluer than ever and Da Lat is one of the best places to stay away from the heat and enjoy the cool air.

Coastal cities have not only pristine beaches but also rich local culture. Nha Trang, Da Nang and Hoi An are the best places to go in this month. >>> Best Vietnam tours in June:

Vietnam weather in July

Where to visit Vietnam in July

Vietnam Weather in August

Where to visit in august.

August is a great month to explore the caves in Phong Nha Ke Bang and Halong Bay , relax on the white beaches of Cat Ba island, Nha Trang, stroll the ancient town of Hoi An, and have fun with sand sliding in Mui Ne . However, Mekong Delta isn’t ideal since it’s the rainy season this month while trekking to mountainous areas in North Vietnam can be dangerous. When there’re typhoons, stay away from the coastal beaches of the area where the typhoons hit.

Recommended Vietnam tours in August: Spirit of Vietnam and Cambodia – 17 Days Vietnam Essential Tour – 7 Days Vietnam Travel Line – 14 Days Pin our August check-list for later:

Vietnam Weather in September

As one of the best months to visit Vietnam, September offers diverse weather conditions and natural landscape features across the country. September is also the end of summer with the temperature dropping significantly. In northern Vietnam, there is still rain but not as heavy as rain in June – August. While in central highlands, it rains more frequently. In the south, rain is less and less while Mekong Delta enters its flooding season.

Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay have great conditions to enjoy the water and the scenery. Mountainous areas start their harvesting season: terraced rice fields turning golden.

Where to visit in September

Northwest Vietnam in general and Mu Cang Chai, in particular,  becomes a real cultural paradise with its gorgeous endless terraced rice fields and rich local culture. Bach Ma National Park in Hue should be your off-the-beaten path to explore. Mekong Delta is just so beautiful in the flooding season. September brings a romantic atmosphere to Hanoi.

Phong Nha Ke Bang is closed in its flooding season (September – November) and Hoi An suffers more rains in this month.

Vietnam Weather in October

Autumn officially arrives in North Vietnam when October starts: the skies are blue, cooler breezes, and bountiful treats. Rain is lesser, the air is drier and the temperature drops a little bit further.

The beauty of the northwest in October is in its prime. When you go to a higher altitude, the air gets chillier. In central Vietnam cities like Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang, the rain continues but doesn’t make these cities any less beautiful than themselves in any other month.

In the south, the average temperature is fixed at 24-31 degrees Celsius with much less rain.

Where to visit in October

Vietnam Weather in November

Where to visit in November

Vietnam Weather in December

Where to visit in december.

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Vietnam Flight Information & the Cheapest Time to Fly to Vietnam

Best Time to Book Cheap Flights to Vietnam

Vietnam is the country that you can enjoy all year round. The month you decide to visit Vietnam will come down to the most suitable places to go and things to do. To help you guarantee the best savings for your trip, we have studied the cheapest time to fly to Vietnam and other necessary information to have a smooth experience. 

I. Fast Facts about Vietnam Flight Deals 

• Vietnam is one of the budget travel markets in Asia thanks to beautiful landscapes, delicious food at reasonable prices, inexpensive accommodation, and various means of transportation.
• Flying to Vietnam with a connection or flying a non-Vietnamese airline could help you find Vietnam flight deals.
• You should check flight tickets to different airports in Vietnam like Danang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh.
• Using miles and points for travel to and around Vietnam is also a great strategy.
• Vietnam flight tickets are the most expensive during peak periods.

II. Best Time to Book Cheap Flights to Vietnam

The best time to book cheap flights to Vietnam is April, September, and October . These months are the beginning or the end of tourism season, so you can get your best deals. Normally, the flight fare can decrease from 5% and up to 30% compared to the price in peak seasons.

III. Peak Season and Off Season in Vietnam

1. Peak Season

Vietnam’s climate varies in different regions of the country. Generally, there is no bad time to book your flights to Vietnam if the humidity is not a turn-off.

In the northern area, the winter lasts from November to April with cool and wet weather, the summer lasts from May to October with heavy rains and hot weather. The southern area is different, experiencing a dry and hot season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. In the central region, heavy rains often occur during December and February.

The busiest months in Vietnam are July and August when the weather is hot and humid, making local people leave the cities and enjoy the coastal areas. Therefore, booking flights to Vietnam during this time is quite expensive. If you still want to travel in this season, it is better to book well in advance.

2. Off Season

If you want to have a tour around the whole country, it is best to book your flight tickets in the low season. The cheapest months of the year to fly to Vietnam last from September to November and April to June. However, it is noted that the northern and central coastline often suffer typhoons until November. 

IV. 9 Popular Airlines That Fly to Vietnam

Recently, tourism in Vietnam has greatly developed, increasing a large number of foreign visitors. Therefore, more and more airlines are opening to fly to Vietnam. If you are considering which one to book your flight, let’s look at the list below:

1. Vietnam Airlines

Vietnam Airlines is the most popular airline in Vietnam and well-known in Asia, especially Indochina. The airline operates flights to 19 provinces in the country and 42 destinations in the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

2. Air France

Air France is a member of Air France – KLM. Before joining KLM, it was the national France airlines. It has 237 airplanes that fly to 183 destinations in the world.

3. British Airways

British Airways is the biggest airline in the UK and ranks 3th in Europe, following Air France – KLM and Lufthansa.with 234 airplanes, its flights fly to 222 destinations in the world.

4. Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines International was established in 1953. In 2002, it merged with Japan Airlines System and became one of the most “powerful” airlines when it comes to the number of passengers.

5. All Nippon Airways

This is the 2nd biggest airline in Japan after Japan Airlines. All Nippon Airways belongs to Japan Universal Studios, accesses 49 domestic destinations and 22 countries in the world, including Vietnam.

6. Asiana Airlines

If you plan to travel from Korea, Asiana Airlines is a good choice. As a favorite airline in Korea, it provides customers with international standard service.

7. China Airlines

China Airlines is one of the largest airlines in Asia with the largest number of staff in the world. Belonging to Skyteam Corporation, it flies to most countries in the world, including Vietnam.

8. Vietjet Air

Vietjet air is the first budget airline in Vietnam with its headquarter in Noi Bai International Airport. 

9. Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific is an international airline in Asia, providing flights to 102 destinations in the world. 

10. Emirates

Emirates is one of the 2 international airlines of the United Arab Emirates and its headquarter is located in Dubai. It serves up to 550 flights per week to 87 cities and 59 countries.

11. Other Airlines

• China Southern Airlines
• Lao Airlines
• Phillipine Airlines
• Jetstar Pacific Airlines
• Scandinavian Airlines System
• Siem Reap Airways
• Singapore Airlines
• Malaysia Airlines

V. Airports in Vietnam

Vietnam has 3 main international airports and some other provincial airports in major attractions. See the full list below.

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
• Hai Phong Airport (HPH)
• Danang International Airport (DAD)
• Hue Airport (HUI)
• Nha Trang Airport (CXR)
• Dalat Airport (DLI)
• Vinh Airport (VII)
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
• Con Dao Airport (VCS)
• Phu Quoc Airport (PQC)

VI. Tips on How to Book Cheap Flights to Vietnam

• There are many airlines that fly to Vietnam, so you should choose the most suitable one. It is better to choose a budget airline and consider which services to pay for.
• The price in the peak season is higher. You should book your flight during the offseason, normally from March to April or from September to October.
• The ticket is better booked 3 months in advance.
• Booking the flight ticket yourself instead of using an agency can help you save some money.
• Don’t forget to subscribe to your favorite airline as they will send you some promotion information through your email.
• Consider buying a 2 one-way ticket because it is cheaper than buying a return one.

Hope that this article will help you to find the cheapest time to fly to Vietnam and have fun here. If you have any difficulties booking your flight to Vietnam, don’t hesitate to contact us for support.

>> Check out: 10 Amazing Hanoi Facts – What You Didn’t Know About This City

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TRAVEL to VIETNAM – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Vietnam in our comprehensive 2024 Vietnam travel guide.

We get it. You’re wondering what the absolute best destination to travel in Southeast Asia is.

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

And trust us, as a couple that have travelled the world for over a decade, we think you’ve made the right decision.

There’s a reason Vietnam is our all-time favourite country…

From the tropical coral reefs of Nha Trang to the northern mountains of Sa Pa, travel to Vietnam is one of the most adventurous yet culturally empowering experiences you can have.

One moment you will find yourself haggling for  banh mi  deep within Saigon and later that day you could be watching a breathtaking sunset from the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam is more than a country. It’s an experience.

You’ll find yourself immersed among street food vendors cooking up exotic cuisines such as  pho  along streets with stores selling suits and ties.

Or you’ll be cruising the waters of Halong Bay while monkeys jump from island to island.

Or you might find yourself trekking to the highest peak in Vietnam, Fansipan soaring to over 3,100 metres!

Not into adventure activities? Homestays are the perfect way to spend your day as the monsoon rains fall across the endless snaking rivers of the Mekong.

Vietnamese hospitality is unrivalled and is something that you should experience once in your life, so what are you waiting for? Say good morning Vietnam! And go get lost!

So we’ve convinced you to travel to Vietnam? Awesome!

Now check out the basic information about the country in our Vietnam travel guide.

25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, canyoning in dalat – what it is really like, travelling in vietnam: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang, Hue

Vietnamese Dong (see  current exchange rate ). 1USD approximately = 23,000 dong. 1 beer = 30,000 dong ($1.30USD)

ENTRY / VISA:

Travellers from most countries in the world are required to have visas. In most cases these can be obtained upon arrival for either 3 or 6 months. For information about your specific visa requirements click  here.

Vietnam is fairly safe for travellers. Petty theft tends to be the biggest concern and always be on the lookout for taxi scams. Also of concern are minor auto/motorbike accidents. This is one place it’s great to have travel insurance when visiting.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. Power plugs – Type A: 2 vertical pins, Type C: 2 round pins, Type F (also known as Schuko plug): 2 round pins (Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Intercity travel is possible by plane, train and bus. Within cities, towns and villages you can expect to get around on bicycle rickshaws, motorbike taxes, taxis and bus.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

Said to be one of the most eye-opening train rides in the world, as you pass through lush forests, rice paddy fields on your way to the Vietnamese – Chinese border.

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Explore the area with the local hill tribes. Stay with them during your trek. And enjoy the beautiful terraced countryside for which Sapa is known.

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Probably one of the ‘must do’s of Vietnam.’ The Mekong Delta is full of hidden gems including floating markets, friendly locals and late afternoon storms.

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

Caves there can fit a 747 plane in it. They are massive and spectacular. This is an adventure you will never forget.

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

Yes, that’s right! Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is a must. But maybe do it out on the country roads. Opt for the famous ride to the mountain village of Dalat, or pretty much anywhere throughout the country.

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

Learn to cook Vietnamese food . Eating delicious Vietnamese food is one thing. Eating it after you’ve  learned to prepare it  is another!

Scuba dive  in Nha Trang. You may not think of Vietnam as a big scuba location, but there is  some great diving  to be had in Nha Trang.

Go canyoning  in Dalat. Rappel, slide, jump and  climb your way through canyons  in this gorgeous place!

Explore the Marble Mountains  in Da Nang.  These beautiful mountains  have been mined for marble for years and have incredible views and temples to visit along the way.

Sandboard down the sand dunes  in Mui Ne. It’s like snowboarding, but down massive sand dunes! Enjoy this rush!

Visit the Giants Causeway  in Ghan Da Dia. Half the world away from the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, be amazed at  this unique geologic structure .

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels  outside of Ho Chi Minh City. No trip to HCMC is complete without  touring these historic tunnels  that were used during the war.

Conquer the Hoi An Pass on a motorbike . This is known as one of the most beautiful sections of highway in the world. Enjoy!

Explore the world’s biggest cave . We have a special connection with  Hang Son Doong  as it is where we were engaged. Make your own special moment too!

Climb the highest mountain in Indochina  in Sapa. Fansipan is over 3,000m above sea level and  offers incredible views  along the way to the top!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE  OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN   VIETNAM

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BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Vietnam. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

When slurping a bowl of pho in a local market or exploring an ancient temple, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

A collection of over 3,000 limestone islands providing endless kayaking opportunities. Take the time to relax aboard a boat or venture to Cat Ba National Park for mystical waterfalls!

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

The capital of Vietnam is also one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The history of Hanoi is rich, devastating and full of legends. This mystical city is also known for its cuisine, silk, buzzing nightlife as well as cultural diversity.

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

Ancient temples dating back 1,000 years give a culture understanding into Vietnam’s past all while showing the scars of the war.

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Vietnam, reference our following city travel guides: 

Ho Chi Minh City:

*  Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary *  Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM. 

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

We’ve put together a few Vietnam itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Vietnam that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Even though the country is one united nation, you can think of it geographically as being divided into a northern and southern region.

So depending on how much time you have, you may want to explore the northern region, southern region or the entire country.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Vietnam these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people spend at least a month went hey travel to Vietnam. But if you had just one week, or were willing to split a few weeks between the northern and southern regions, this is how we’d spend our time! 

Northern Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi
• 2 nights – Hanoi
• 2 nights –  Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
• 2 nights  – Sapa
• Alternative to Sapa  –  2 night in Hue
• Fly out of Hanoi

Central Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi or HCMC. Get a local flight down to Dong Hoi
• 3 nights  – Phong Nha
• 2 nights  – Hue
• 2-3  nights  – Hoi An
• Fly out of Da Nang to either Hanoi or HCMC to leave

South Vietnam

• Fly into Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights  – Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights –  Mekong Delta
• 2 nights –  Dalat
• 1 night –  Mui Ne
• Fly out of Ho Chi Minh City

READ MORE: Check out this post for more details on our  Vietnam travel itinerary . 

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to travel to Vietnam really depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather, scenery and budget.

Peak season occurs from mid-December through to February. But expect prices to double during this time. The low season is perfect for those on a budget.

• Low Season –  April to June, September to November
• Shoulder Season –  December to March
• High Season –  July & August

Northern Vietnam  –  The best months to travel Northern Vietnam are April to May or September to October. There are mostly sunny days and the rain has stopped.

The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year.

Central Vietnam –  The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.

Southern Vietnam  –  The best months to explore Southern Vietnam are January to April where conditions are beautiful.

You really can travel the south at any time of the year. Just note that from May to November there are afternoon downpours.

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Vietnam is a cheap country to travel if you want it to be, this all depends on what your budget is like. Our advice is always over-budget when making plans, and if you come home with money, it can go towards your next trip. All prices below are in USD per day.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips: 

• Eat street food as often as possible. You can usually fill up for $1-2USD.
• Travel in groups when possible. Staying in hostels will lead to making friends. And with friends, you can split transportation costs and barter on other expenses.
• Negotiate taxi fares before taking the ride. Vietnamese taxi drivers are notorious for flexible fares that tend to fall int heir favor. Don’t be afraid of a little negotiation.
• Drink  bia hoi . Sure it’s not the more delightful beer. But it is shipped in fresh each day, it’s cheap and it’s what the local drink.
• Take in the sights for free. Do a little research and walk the streets on your own. You’ll also find there are a number of free tours and other opportunities if you ask around.
• Sleep on overnight busses for longer trips. Combine the transportation and accommodation line items of your budget and save a few dollars.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, drinking a few nights of the week, I would budget for about $35 a day.

A single hostel bed can be $5-$8 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$20. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $1.50 and a  bia hoi  is $0.20 per cup. This is not the nicest beer. But it is passable and you get to make new friends when drinking it.

Walking or taking public transport will keep your budget down. There are many free things to do, you just need to think outside the box.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100 Single / $120 Couple)

If you have a little more cash in your budget your travels in Vietnam will become a lot more comfortable.

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

There are restaurants where you will pay more than the street food price. But the food is definitely of nicer quality (most of the time). The local beer can get a little too much sometimes so you will be able to enjoy an international beer or wine.

For the attractions you are most interested in, get a guide and learn more about the history of the country. You’ll be able to commit much more of your budget to do things rather than cutting corners just to stay alive.

Luxury Traveller ($90+ Single / $120+ Couple)

You don’t have to have that much more to enjoy a luxury trip to Vietnam. With a few more dollars in your budget, a nicer hotel is definitely affordable. Eat and drink anything you would like at virtually any restaurant.

You can hire transportation without having to haggle. And you can pretty much do any tour you would like to do when visiting any part of Vietnam.

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

Most travellers are required to have visas when travelling to Vietnam, which can typically be arranged upon arrival. You are typically allowed to stay for 3 – 6 months, depending on nationality.

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

Additionally, Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa), which costs $25 USD and is granted for single entry visits for up to 30 days.

You no longer will have to apply through an agent to get an invitation letter or queue at the airport immigration for hours waiting to receive your visa upon arrival.

Apply in advance  here .

Once you are approved, all you need to do is print the visa out and present it on entry to Vietnam. Don’t lose this e- visa print out as you will need this during your travels in Vietnam.

Hotels will ask for it on check-in at the accommodation and travel agents may ask for it if you are booking flights.

Also, print out your  travel insurance  as well. Immigration will ask for this also as they want to know you are covered if you fall ill or get injured during your stay.

Getting to Vietnam

There are a number of different ways to travel to Vietnam, depending on where you are coming from and how you like to get around with transport.

There are a lot of different airlines that fly to Vietnam from all over the world. There are two major international airports in Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Noi Bai Airpot (HAN) in Hanoi in the north.

Direct flights to Vietnam from Australia, Europe and North America are still limited, but it is improving. You will most likely have to book a flight with a stopover in either Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul or Singapore.

There are many domestic airports scattered among the country. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. We have flown with them several times and they are amazing.

You can cross into Vietnam by train from China, all the way from Beijing to Ping Xian. This is the Dong Dang Crossing which is 160km from Hanoi.

After you have crossed the border hop on a train to Hanoi. Don’t buy the direct ticket from Beijing to Hanoi. It works out cheaper to buy your ticket from Beijing to Ping Xian then cross the border and purchase another ticket from Dong Dang to Hanoi.

If you do the train trip from Beijing through to Hanoi, it will take 36 hours so it is best to book a sleeper. Make sure you have your visa organised before getting to the border.

You can bring your own food and drinks for the train or purchase them from the cafeteria on board. There are squat toilets on board and areas to store your luggage.

You can get to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City through either the Cambodia, Laos or China borders. There is a route from Vientiane (Laos) to Hanoi, and one from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travel agents in Vientiane, Siem Reap or Phnom Penh will sell the tickets or at your accommodation. You can also get a minivan from Guangzhou through to Hanoi.

Make sure you have your visa ready. The border crossings by land may not be set up as well as others.

If you want to book any of your bus trips online rather than trying to deal with travel agencies in the country, you can do so on the popular website  Bookaway .

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is surprisingly easy. Public transport goes everywhere, and there are plenty of moto-taxis that are happy to take you to the places that public transport won’t reach.

Travelling by Air

The fastest way to get around the country, of course, is by air. There are many domestic airports all over the country and you can fly in from major cities.

You can get cheap flights within the country through VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. For the best deals head directly on the airline’s website.

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

When you are in the cities and town catching a taxi, tuk-tuk or moto-taxi can be the best way to get around. For taxi companies, look for the biggest and most reputable companies as you can be ripped off.

For the tuk-tuks, ask your accommodation the average price to your destination so you can agree on a price with the driver.

We recommend Uber and Grab (car or motorbike) which you can use an app and get the price.

Travelling by Bus

It is possible and advisable to travel by bus throughout Vietnam. Busses inside of cities can be complicated and should be a last resort.

However, when travelling long distances in Vietnam busses are a great option. This is especially true if you take night busses and sleep during the ride.

Travelling by Motorbike

We think travelling by motorbike is the best way to see Vietnam if you have the time. Buy your own motorbike and ride the length of the country. Or you can choose one area and explore Northern Vietnam or South Vietnam.

Here’s our post to help guide you on  how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam .

Travelling by Train

Taking the train is a great way to get around the country. They are great for overnight journeys as the trains have bed cabins.

In Vietnam, there are many places with roadwork that can last for years. So trains can be the best way to go.

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

We know you’ll absolutely love travelling in Vietnam. But technology has made it easier, more affordable and safer to travel than ever.

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Grab  – Use this app to catch a ride from any metro area in Vietnam.

XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 

Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in [Country]. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 

iTranslate  – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Vietnamese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Vietnam. 

WiFi Finder  – With this app, you no longer have to guess whether the next place on your itinerary has WiFi or scramble across town looking for hot spots.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

When you travel to a foreign country one of the new and most exciting things you will experience is the food. There are so many amazing food choices in Vietnam, and Vietnamese food is delicious.

Here are a few of our favourites.

Goi Cuon:  This is a rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced or shredded pork, shrimp or crab. It will be served with a sweet and sour sauce or a delicious homemade peanut sauce.

Sometimes to make the experience even better, you get to hand roll them yourself. This was our favourite dish.

Banh Mi:  With this one, it will be different in every corner of Vietnam. This is a baguette sandwich that is filled with meat, greens, pata, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro and sometimes an omelet.

The meat filling will be roasted pork belly, grilled pork loin, barbecue pork, boiled chicken, or a fried egg.

Pho (pronounced ‘fur’):  This flat rice noodle soup is either light beef or chicken broth flavoured with coriander and ginger with spring onions and bits of meat (chicken, pork or beef).

It is a dish you can have any time of the day and is delicious, but it can be hit and miss in some places. If you have an average one, please do try it again. We ate pho a lot for breakfast and never got sick of it.

Bun Cha:  This is a Hanoi specialty and it is deliciously addictive. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles. It will be served with a sauce.

It will all be served separately and you combined everything together. You can ask for some little fried spring rolls on top too. It is so delicious!

Coa Lau:  Hoi An is the best (and only authentic) place to try this one. as the noodles are made using water from a special well in town.

It is chewy rice flour noodles with Chinese barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons and fresh herbs in a delicious pork-based gravy.

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

There are accommodation options for all budgets in Vietnam. You can stay in a shared dorm for $5 USD per night, or a luxury hotel for over $300 USD.

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

For example, we got a really nice hotel in the middle of nowhere when we were on our bike for $12 a night. But we would not find a place like this in Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC or Hue for less than $25.

NOTE –  In Vietnam, the accommodation will keep your passport for the duration of your stay. This is to do with the government. Officials will randomly come around and check hotels and hostels.

If they do not have the ID or passport of every person staying there, the accommodation will be fined. The accommodation will keep your passport in a safe. If you are unsure just ask, “do you lock my passport up?”

Types of Accommodations

Vietnam is wildly popular among backpackers. Because the costs are generally incredibly low, budget travellers flock to the country.

This means that there are lots of great hostel options when looking for accommodations in Vietnam.

Whether you are busy spending all your time exploring and are just looking for a cheap place to crash for the night or want to make friends along the way, you will find most of what you are looking for in a variety of hostels throughout Vietnam.

Because costs are generally lower in Vietnam than in most parts of the world your quality of life can go up quite a bit when you travel to Vietnam.

One way you can upgrade your travel experience is by booking rooms in hotels instead of beds in hostels. For a few dollars more you’ll get vastly more space and privacy.

In some towns and villages, hotels are your only option.

But generally, these are very reasonably priced. You can expect to spend USD$20-30 for a decent hotel room in most cities, towns and villages across Vietnam.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay in Vietnam for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

We travelled from the south to the north and stayed in many different places. Here are a few accommodation options we highly recommend.

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia.

The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

While we have  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Vietnam, there are also plenty of Vietnam-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Vietnam: 

Please show respect to their religious beliefs and their cultures . You are travelling to someone else’s country. They have different religious beliefs and cultures in your home. Please respect them.

Watch your belongings.  Vietnam is a safe country but unfortunately, there still is petty theft. Whether you are at a restaurant or on a bus always watch your belongings.

Beware of the counterfeit tour agencies . Unfortunately, there are plenty of these around, especially in the main tourist areas. Book through the main owner or operator or any of  these tours that we recommend .

Do not drink the tap water.  The locals don’t even drink the water. There is bottled water available everywhere. Popular tourist restaurants will usually have on their menu that they wash their salad and veggies in sterilised water and make tea, coffee and soup from that too.

Carry toilet paper everywhere . There are toilets available in restaurants or in public but there may not be toilet paper. Most of the time you have to pay for the public toilet and they may give you some toilet paper, but don’t count on it. Always have your stash.

Toilet paper goes in the bin . DO NOT put the toilet paper in the toilet. Please put it into the bin provided. Vietnam’s sewerage systems are not built for much more than human waste so toilet paper and other items will just clog up your toilet.

Embrace the “bum gun “. Next to every toilet in Vietnam, there is a water hose. This is not to wash down the floor. This is to clean yourself up after you do your business. Don’t be disgusted by this. Embrace it.

Vietnam is bigger than you think . This country is huge and many people underestimate it. Vietnam is about 1,650 kilometres long from north to south. The distance on buses and trains is long so be prepared.

Take note of the Vietnamese money . It will be a new currency for you so do take a look at it before you go out spending. There are more zeros in it than you might be used to (1USD = 23,000 Dong)

Always take photos when you rent a scooter . Renting a scooter in Vietnam is something everyone does. It is a great way to get around and see all the attractions. But where you rent it from can get you into trouble. Whenever you rent a scooter take photos of the bike or else might end up with a crazy expensive bill.

Always wear a helmet. Always . Please wear a helmet. The roads are crazier here than they are in your country. The rules are different and road conditions are not the best. A quality helmet could save your life in an accident.

Make sure you have travel insurance . We tell people who are going travelling, “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” You do not know what is going to happen while you are away and knowing you are covered will put your mind at ease.

Be confident when crossing the road . The roads in Vietnam are crazy. Crossing the road can be daunting but you need to be confident. Do not walk backward or hesitate. Walk slowly and watch the traffic coming towards you. They will all move around you.

Take your shoes off before entering a temple or a person’s home . It is a custom that stems back to ancient times and a big part comes back to cleanliness. The ground is used for chatting, dining and even sleeping.

Cover your shoulders and knees when entering a temple . This is common in most religious sites. There are always signs suggesting visitors dress ‘appropriately.’ Shoulders and knees should be covered. If it is a hot day and a t-shirt is too sticky, carry a scarf for when you visit to cover your shoulders.

Keep a low profile . Do not be loud, raise your voice in aggression or show off. Do not show dramatic affection publicly like kissing. Save it for the hotel room

Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone . This is polite and ensures you are not intruding on them. The people are not there for your entertainment. If they say no, smile and thank them anyway.

Do not take photos of anything to do with the government or military.  This is a big NO in any country and can end up with you in jail.

Do not touch someone on the head . The head is the most important part of the body. Touching someone’s head who you don’t know is like saying you are more important than they are.

Place your chopsticks across the top of the bowl when finished . Don’t have your chopsticks hanging out of the bowl, and don’t point them at anyone when they are resting on the plate.

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Vietnam, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note!  Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is  World Nomads .

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in vietnam.

Vietnam is extremely safe, apart from the one major danger which is the roads. They are crazy, even more so if you try to ride 10’000km around the country on motorbikes as we did!

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

Here are a few reminders of what common sense when travelling in Vietnam means:

As you saw above, Vietnam is extremely safe. We did not feel unsafe once in the 7 months we were there (excluding the roads).

This doesn’t mean you can completely let your guard down though, and petty theft does happen in this country, although it’s not common.

Some tips for protecting your things:

In other words, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

Staying connected with friends and family (and work) when travelling in Vietnam is important. But if you don’t know how to connect you can find yourself greatly inconvenienced or spending too much money.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Picking up a SIM card has become the quickest and typically most affordable way to stay connected in Vietnam or any country for that matter.

If you have an unlocked phone you can use a 4G SIM card to connect to the cellular networks in Vietnam. From there you can cast a hot spot if you need to crank out some work on your computer or want to connect a tablet.

This 3G/4G SIM card  is a great and affordable option for a SIM card if you are flying into Vietnam.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Alternatively to a SIM card, particularly if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can rent a portable WiFi device during your travel to Vietnam.

This device  will be delivered to you when you arrive in Vietnam and will provide 4G service for less than USD$5 per day.

You’ll be able to connect anywhere you can find service across the country, which will be most of the places you are likely to travel in Vietnam.

Access Free WiFI

Free is always best, if it is convenient. And there are plenty of places throughout Vietnam that will provide free WiFi in public spaces or at restaurants, cafes and hostels and hotels.

We recommend using the  WiFi Finder  app, which will help you locate WiFi anywhere you travel in Vietnam.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

We absolutely love Vietnam. And we love the idea that it will remain a beautiful and friendly place for travellers for years to come.

Here are a few tips specific to travel to Vietnam that will promote sustainable tourism in the country:

Use your own energy to get around.  Walk or cycle through town as much as possible. Taking a cyclo-taxi is a close alternative if you don’t have the energy to propel yourself through the city. But this reduces the impact of taxis, busses and other forms of automotive transportation.

Mind your plastic . Plastic is everywhere in Vietnam. But using your own reusable bag for groceries and other shopping, carrying a reusable water bottle and having your own straw are just 3 of the many simple ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Shop local . Visiting the markets will be one of your top experiences when travelling to Vietnam. Support local vendors as often as possible, including in taking tours when available.

Be mindful of wildlife . Wildlife in the wild is great. But be mindful not to provoke, feed or otherwise molest wildlife. And never purchase any item made of or involving rare or endangered species.

Attempt to communicate in Vietnamese . You’re probably not going to be fluent as soon as you arrive in the country. But knowing a few phrases and doing your best to communicate with locals will show respect and earn trust and make your experience richer.

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

You don’t have to be fluent in Vietnamese to have a great time when you travel to Vietnam. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Vietnamese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

Maybe you already know everything about Vietnam. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Vietnam. 

The Quiet American  (Graham Greene) – Originally published in 1956 and adapted for film twice, this story by Greene became an instant classic. Greene fictionalizes life in 1950s Vietnam as told by a British correspondent trying to understand the roots of the rising conflict set to occur.

At Home In The World  (Thich Nhat Hanh) – World renown Vietnamese monk, Hanh reflects on lessons and stories in life from the Buddhist perspective.

Vietnam: Rising Dragon  (Bill Hayton) – A piece of nonfiction that looks back on the Vietnam of old and attempts to projects its place in the future of Southeast Asia.

The Sympathizer  (Viet Thanh Nguyen) – The Pulitzer Prize-winning book, allegedly influenced by  The Quiet American , is told through the eyes of a double-agent during the Vietnam War who struggles to understand the minds and hearts of men engaged in war.

DISCLAIMER:  Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Table of Contents

Read our vietnam posts, 20 amazing things to do in hoi an, vietnam (2024 guide), 14 incredible things to do in dalat, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary [2024 guide], 25 amazing things to do in hanoi, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in ho chi minh city itinerary [2024], the 8 best day trips from ho chi minh city (2024 guide), caves, zip lines and deep mud in phong nha, ganh da dia – vietnam’s own ‘giant’s causeway’, ba be national park – the lake, trekking and happy water, motorbiking the road from dalat to nha trang in vietnam, riding sea to sky: hue to hoi an by motorbike, getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam.

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam

sutthinon sanyakup/Getty Images 

The Weather in Vietnam

• Monsoon Season
• Typhoon Season
• Key Events & Festivals
• Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding the best time to visit Vietnam greatly depends upon how far north or south that you begin, as well as other factors such as festivals and holidays. In general, the best time to visit Vietnam is from December through February when temperatures are milder and rain is minimal.

Vietnam's long, narrow shape means that the three primary regions (north, central, and south) experience different types of seasons and weather events throughout the year. Choosing when to go to Vietnam is important, both for personal comfort and packing purposes. The south generally receives more rain and enjoys a tropical climate, however, Hanoi and points farther north have cooler winters than many travelers expect. The area is one of the few places in Southeast Asia you can really feel cold without going to higher elevations.

Vietnam can be enjoyed at any time throughout the year, however, weather plays a big factor—particularly if you plan to enjoy trekking and outdoor activities. There are two tropical monsoons that affect the country's climate, dividing the year into a wet season and a dry season.

The wet season is due to the southwest monsoon (May to September), which brings torrential rains and high temps. Sometimes monsoon rains can become so heavy in urban areas that streets flood and transportation shuts down completely!

Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon creates the cool, dry season (November to March). Although Vietnam still receives a little rain this time of year, the driest months for visiting the south of Vietnam ( Ho Chi Minh City ) are typically between December and April. Temperatures and humidity levels in March and April can be suffocating before monsoon rains begin to cool things off in the summer months.

The spring and autumn months are most pleasant for visiting the north of Vietnam ( Hanoi ). Winter nights can get relatively chilly, with temperatures dipping into the 50s. Much colder has been recorded. You'll certainly need a jacket when visiting Halong Bay in the winter, particularly if you're already accustomed to warmer temperatures in the south or other countries around Southeast Asia .

Visiting Vietnam During Monsoon Season

As with most destinations, Vietnam can still be enjoyed during the monsoon season , but there are some caveats.

You'll meet far fewer travelers and a lot more mosquitoes during the rainy season. Negotiating better prices for accommodation becomes easier, and tours may be cheaper, but outdoor activities such as exploring the Citadel at Hue become soggy experiences.

Transportation delays happen. Buses may not run during long periods of heavy rain—perhaps a good thing as roads become flooded and more dangerous to drive. Even the low-lying tracks along the north-south railway become flooded, causing delays in train service.

If your plan is to travel between Hanoi and Saigon , have a flexible itinerary in case the weather causes delays. You may be better off flying into the part of Vietnam you wish to visit rather than trying to travel long distances overland during monsoon season.

Visiting Vietnam During Typhoon Season

Regardless of the season, large weather events such as tropical depressions and typhoons blowing in from the east can create week-long downpours that disrupt trip plans. Sometimes they can devastate areas that are prone to flooding.

Although Mother Nature doesn't always play by the rules, typhoon season typically ends around December each year. The start dates depend upon which part of Vietnam (north, central, or south), but August is a general starting point. October tends to be a stormy month overall.

The good news is that typhoons don't normally sneak up on a country unexpectedly. Keep an eye on weather events as your trip approaches. If a typhoon is moving into the area, flights may be diverted or delayed anyway.

Key Events and Festivals in Vietnam

The largest national holiday in Vietnam is the Lunar New Year celebration known as Tet.

During Tet, transportation and accommodations go up in price or become booked solid as people move around the country to celebrate or visit family. An influx of Chinese tourists traveling for Chinese New Year hit popular beach areas such as Nha Trang. Although Tet is an extremely interesting and exciting time to be in Vietnam, your travel plans will certainly be affected, so book ahead and arrive early.

Tet follows a lunisolar calendar—after all, it is Lunar New Year—so dates vary from year to year, usually coinciding with Chinese New Year. It's one of the largest winter festivals in Asia and occurs between January and February.

Other big national holidays include May 1 (International Worker's Day) and September 2 (National Day). Reunification Day on April 30 celebrates the reunification of North Vietnam and South Vietnam at the end of the Vietnam War. Local families may be traveling during these times. The Mid-Autumn Festival ( Chinese Moon Festival ) is observed in September or October (based on the lunisolar calendar).

March and April in Vietnam are quite hot, with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Typically, rain begins in full force by late April, and by May, the heat and humidity are intense. The upside: Fewer crowds.

Events to check out:

• Thay Pagoda Festival honors Tu Dao Hanh, a Buddhist monk who invented Vietnamese water puppetry. Taking place during the third month of the Chinese lunar calendar, the event is celebrated with water puppetry festivals about 18 miles southwest of Hanoi.
• International Labor Day is held on May 1. Celebrations and parades are held in central squares throughout the country.
• Saigon Liberation Day is celebrated nationwide on April 30.

Summertime weather can vary depending on where you are in the country. The south is quite warm, with highs climbing above 90 degrees Fahrenheit regularly, and is often victim to frequent heavy showers. If you're in the northern part of the country, you'll want to bring plenty of insect repellant—mosquitoes are at their peak, thanks to frequent heavy rainfall. Plan to pack sandals and a travel umbrella that can withstand strong winds.

• National Day celebrates the rise of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on September 2 each year.

Rains continue through September and October, with the latter being the wettest month in Ho Chi Minh City (the city sees an average rainfall of 7.5 inches every October). Keep in mind that typhoons can cause rough seas; unsuspecting tourists should be aware that central regions of Vietnam are subject to hurricanes during the fall months.

• During mid-September, Haiphong hosts the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival.
• The Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu), also held in mid-September (on the half-moon of the eighth lunar month, to be exact), is popular with kids and includes dance, sweets, and toys for purchase.

At last, come December, the country dries out. Winter marks the best time for seaside vacations in Vietnam, but the northern part of the country can be quite cool and gloomy. Expect temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and occasional drizzle.

• Vietnam's Traditional Lunar New Year Festival ( Tet Nguyen Dan ) is celebrated countrywide. During this four-day event, you can expect lion dances, feasts featuring sticky rice and mung bean cake, and fireworks.
• Celebrated during the first lunar month of the Chinese lunar calendar, the Lim Festival commemorates Ba Mu, a Buddhist nun at Lim Pagoda. Every year, visitors travel to Bac Ninh province to listen to traditional Quan Ho folk songs and watch weaving competitions.

December to February is the best time to visit Vietnam for mild temperatures and minimal rain, especially if you're visiting the south. However, northern cities like Hanoi can get surprisingly cold in the winter, so plan for spring if you want more heat.

The monsoon season in Vietnam lasts from April to October, so be prepared for humidity and rainy days. The peak of the rainy season lasts from June to August, so avoid these months if you want to enjoy outdoor activities.

Apart from the rainy summer months, Lunar New Year—known as Tet—is one of the busiest times around the country. It's an exciting time to be in Vietnam, but plane tickets and hotel rooms shoot up in price and making reservations will be extra difficult.

March through May is heat season in the south of Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City), with temps reaching as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit in April. In the north (Hanoi), June and July are the hottest months of the year, seeing average highs in the high-80s.

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There’s no wrong time to visit Vietnam. The country has a tropical monsoon climate, with the south or southwesterly monsoon dominating from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April. So figuring out the best time to visit Vietnam depends on which parts of the country you want to visit – unless you’re willing to be caught in a daily downpour or don’t mind fierce temperatures and high humidity.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Weather in vietnam by month, best time to visit sapa (north vietnam), best time to visit south vietnam, when is the rain season in vietnam, visiting vietnam during festivals.

If you intend to see a bit of everything, you need to work around the regional weather differences. Overall, autumn / winter (September - December) and spring (March and April) are probably the most favourable seasons if you’re planning to cover the whole country.

But, the best time to visit Vietnam varies depending on the region, as the country experiences a diverse climate due to its elongated geography.

North Vietnam

In the North, including cities like Hanoi and Sapa, the ideal time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cooler and less humid, perfect for trekking and sightseeing.

• Best Time: October to April
• Weather: Cooler and less humid
• Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, cultural visits to temples and historical site
• Avoid: May to September due to hot and humid conditions, heavy rainfall

Central Vietnam

The Central region, encompassing places like Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An, is best visited from February to May when the rainfall is moderate and the temperatures are warm but not scorching.

• Best Time: February to May
• Weather: Moderate rainfall, warm temperatures
• Activities: Beach visits, historical tours, water sports
• Avoid: Late May to November due to typhoon season and heavy rains

South Vietnam

The South, including bustling Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is favourable for travel from December to April, avoiding the monsoon season and making the most of the tropical climate.

• Best Time: December to April
• Weather: Dry and less humid
• Activities: Exploring urban areas, river cruises, visiting tropical forests
• Avoid: May to November due to monsoon season, high humidity and rainfall

Tips from Sunny

Vietnam Travel Expert

"I recommend visiting during October to December. The weather is comfortably cool, perfect for exploring our vibrant cities and stunning countryside, without the heavy rains or intense heat of other months. Ideal for photography and outdoor adventures!"

Make sure to visit the rice fields in Sapa © Shutterstock

Not sure about the best time to visit Vietnam? We divided Vietnam's weather by month to help you decide the optimal time for your visit, ensuring that you're prepared for whatever climatic nuances each region has to offer. From the chilly winters in the north to the tropical summers in the south, here's what you can expect in terms of weather throughout the year in this captivating country.

January: Best for festive celebrations and cool climates

In January , cold winter weather hits the north . This is often accompanied by fine persistent mists, which could spoil your views at Ha Long Bay. There’s also the chance of ground frost in higher regions, or even a rare snowfall. Don’t let it put you off outdoor activities though – while January is the coldest month in mountainous areas, such as Sa Pa, rainfall is at its lowest, making perfect trekking conditions. Hanoi averages a pleasant 20ºC.

The southern end of the country is firmly into the dry season come January, so it’s a good time to explore cities such as Ho Chi Minh . And for post-city downtime make for beaches within easy reach of the capital, such as at Phan Thiet and Mui Ne . It’s a fantastic time to try water-related activities, such as diving , around Phu Quoc.

Nha Trang and Da Nang beaches also start to beckon in January, as the central coast sees the tail end of the rains.

February: Best for Lunar New Year festivities and flower blossoms

Vietnam sees optimum weather conditions all-round in February . The south and the central coast, are perfect for beach bums, with just a smattering of rain perhaps on the beaches between Hoi An and Da Nang. If you can tear yourself away from the sands near Da Nang to dip into the back streets of the city, you’re in for some of the best street food in Vietnam . The north sees the chill lifting, leaving clear and warm days for hiking and exploring the region.

Dominating the calendar is Tet , or the Lunar New Year, and the biggest festival in Vietnam. While it’s wonderfully festive throughout, note that much of the country shuts down during this period, such as restaurants and museums. Also, accommodation can be hard to come by, as the Vietnamese take their holidays, and the transport system is stretched.

March: Best for beach holidays and water sports

In terms of the weather, March is perhaps the best month to visit Vietnam, especially if you want to see the whole country . Temperatures in the north are rising, making March a perfect time for adventure and trekking in the highlands and mountains. Clear skies around Ha Long Bay make it an ideal time to take a boat tour, stopping off at the beguiling Cat Ba Island.

Dry weather means you can visit the awesome Phong Nha Caves in Phong Nha-ke Bang National Park , which boasts the world’s biggest cave.

You can be sure of sunshine and hot days in the south, which means lazy days on the beaches and water-based activities are a must, also on beaches on the central coast, such as at Nha Trang.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock

April: Best for cultural festivals and spring beauty

Temperatures in the north are rising in April as summer approaches, and some rain is not uncommon. But it’s still very pleasant and great for hiking, with spring flowers in full bloom making the region especially beautiful.

The centre of Vietnam entices with blue skies and sunshine, so make for charming town of Hoi An and the nearby beach of An Bang, and the broad sands at Da Nang. Further south, Nha Trang is at its best. Temperatures in the city of Hué are agreeable and the highlands experiences great weather at this time.

There's a chance of some rain in southern Vietnam, but with mostly clear skies and temperatures hitting 31ºC it’s still great for sun worshippers on the south’s beautiful beaches.

May: Best for mountain escapes and ethnic markets

The south is getting wetter in May as it moves into its monsoon season , but it’s easy to avoid the short afternoon downpours. The north is hotting up and seeing more rain, although it’s still mostly dry and great for exploring the great outdoors. The central coast is the place to be this month , with hot, sunny days.

June: Best for island retreats and diving adventures

June isn't the best time to visit Vietnam. The rainy season in the south is in full swing and floods are common, and rainfall is increasing in the central highlands. The north is heating up and getting wetter too, meaning trekking can be hazardous – so bring appropriate footwear and outer layers if that’s on your itinerary. But don’t let the rain deter you from visiting Vietnam. The central coast is at its best , so perfect for idling away some time on the beaches near Hoi An, Da Nang and Lang Co, and the south still has plenty of dry hours in the day. Hanoi in the north and the Mai Chau Valley are still mostly dry. Added to which, visitor numbers in Vietnam tend to be fewer in June.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in June .

July: Best for summer festivals and highland explorations

July is a similar story to June: heavy downpours occurring at both ends of the country. Temperatures reach their peak in the north and the central coast is a searing 31ºC, on average. But if you don’t mind a roasting, it’s still a good month to hit the beaches, as there are still plenty of clear days, and the rain offsets some of the heat. Rain in the central highlands means trekking conditions are poor. Also, transport can be more complicated, sometimes washing out roads and cutting off the more remote villages. Hanoi tends to be very wet.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in July .

Danang, Vietnam © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

August: Best for culinary discoveries and local life experiences

If you intend to trek in Vietnam, avoid visiting in August : the mountains of the north and the central highlands are experiencing peak rainfall now. And the deluge of rain at Ha Long Bay means you should forget about going on a boat tour this month. Conditions on the central coast are, on the whole, still pretty good, especially at Nha Trang , although the fine days are coming to an end. While the south is fully ensconced in its wet season, it’s not exactly a bad time to visit, with plenty of rain-free hours in the day to enjoy.

September: Best for photography and rice harvest views

September is officially the start of the best time to visit Vietnam, although it can never be pinned down to months. The north and south are experiencing a similar story: temperatures are high but it’s getting drier, opening up the possibility of trekking once more in the north, around Sa Pa . The central coast and central highlands , however, are getting very wet indeed, with storms on the horizon.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in September .

October: Best for pleasant weather and outdoor activities

If trekking and other outdoor adventure activities are your bag and you’re wondering when to visit Vietnam, October is a great month. The sun puts its hat back on in the north, and dry weather makes for ideal conditions in Sa Pa and the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark in Ha Giang province. It’s a good time to explore the picturesque Mai Chau Valley, its rice fields a golden colour during the harvest season, against a backdrop of jagged mountains, and visit the minority White Thai villages.

Sunbathing in central Vietnam is over, however, as the rain dumps down, and storms make it difficult to get around. It’s best to avoid Hoi An, in October and November, when serious flooding can mean water in the streets can be knee- or waist high.

The Mekong Delta is a beautiful region to visit © Shutterstock

November: Best for heritage sites and less crowded tours

Balmy temperatures in the south and favourable conditions in the north make this an ideal month to visit either end of the country. Take your pick of the beaches in the south, or go trekking in the north. November is also the best time of year to visit Vietnam for a cruise at Ha Long Bay.

It’s a different picture along the central coast. The wet season starts with a flourish around Nha Trang, and be warned that when the northeasterly winter monsoon hits, the riptides between Da Nang and Hoi An become particularly dangerous.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in November .

December: Best for cool-weather trekking and Christmas vibes

This is one of the most fun and certainly part of the best time to visit Vietnam. Most of Vietnam enjoys dry conditions and basks in sunshine by December . Central Vietnam is the exception, which is gradually emerging from its rainy season. So it’s a good time to head to the southern coast if you want to soak up some rays and rack up some time on Vietnam’s gorgeous beaches . Beaches such as Mui Ne, or on the island of Phu Quoc are great in this month.

It’s also a good time to visit Ho Chi Minh City , with temperatures averaging a comfortable 26ºC.

If you’re planning a Christmas getaway be aware that things get booked up way in advance, so plan ahead.

Outdoor activities in the north are good in December. It is somewhat chilly, however, especially in the mountains – so pack extra layers.

Celebrate Newyears in Hoi An © Shutterstock

The best time to visit Sapa, located in northern Vietnam, largely depends on what you're looking to experience. For those keen on trekking and enjoying the lush landscapes, the optimal time is between September and November or from March to May.

During these months, the weather is fairly stable with warm days and cool nights, offering clear skies and stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. September to November showcases Sapa in full harvest season, offering golden terraced rice fields that are nothing short of breathtaking. On the other hand, if you're fascinated by cultural experiences, visiting during the Lunar New Year, usually falling in late January to mid-February, offers a unique insight into local traditions, although it will be quite cold.

However, be prepared for a wetter experience if you opt for a summertime visit, as June to August is Sapa's rainy season. While the landscape is incredibly lush, trekking can be more challenging due to slippery paths. Choose your timeframe according to your interests, whether it's trekking, cultural immersion, or landscape photography, and Sapa will not disappoint.

Come between September and November to see the rice fields! © Shutterstock

The best time to visit South Vietnam, including destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is from December to April. During these months, the region experiences dry, sunny weather with less humidity, making it ideal for urban exploration, river cruises, and tropical forest visits.

This is also a great time for beach activities along the southern coast. The absence of monsoons during this period means fewer disruptions to travel plans and more comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures. However, if you're interested in experiencing local festivals, the Lunar New Year, usually occurring from late January to mid-February, offers a unique cultural insight, albeit at a time when many services may be closed.

It's advisable to avoid the wet season from May to November if you're not a fan of high humidity and heavy rainfall, as these conditions can impact travel and outdoor activities. Overall, the dry months provide the most favorable conditions for a diverse range of activities and experiences in South Vietnam.

Floating market on the Mekong Delta in Vietnam © Shutterstock

The rainy season in Vietnam varies depending on the region:

• North Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Sapa ) : The rainy season typically lasts from May to September. During this time, the north experiences heavy rainfall, particularly in July and August. The mountainous areas like Sapa can be especially wet and slippery.
• Central Vietnam (e.g., Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): The central region has its rainy season from September to December. This period often sees typhoons and very heavy rains, particularly in October and November.
• South Vietnam (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): The rainy season here is from May to November. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts and is often at night, making it possible to still enjoy some daytime activities.

When you are deciding on when to go to Vietnam it's worth looking at the calendar of annual festivals, so that you can perhaps plot them on your itinerary.

The most important festival is Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, and lasts for seven days sometime between the last week of January and the third week of February. Families get together to celebrate and there's a party-like atmosphere in the cities, with colourful decorations adorning the streets, the scent of incense in the air, and glorious fireworks displays filling the skies.

The majority of festivals take place in spring, with a second flurry in the autumn months. One festival you might want to make a note of, however, is Tet: not only does most of Vietnam close down for the week, but either side of the holiday local transport services are stretched to the limit and international flights are filled by returning overseas Vietnamese.

TET: the Vietnamese New Year

If we're talking about the best time to visit Vietnam, we can't ignore TET. Tet or Tet Nguyen Dan, is Vietnam's most important annual festival lasting seven days. Typically falling between late January and mid-February during the new moon, Tet is a time for family reunions, welcoming ancestral spirits, and celebrating the New Year. Interestingly, everyone in Vietnam becomes a year older at Tet, as age is counted by the new year, not individual birthdays.

In preparation for Tet, the excitement builds, culminating in fireworks displays on the eve since firecrackers were banned in 1995. A week prior, the Ong Tau festival kicks off, honoring the god of the hearth. Families prepare by cleaning the house thoroughly and making offerings to Ong Tau.

Tet is a time for fresh starts. Debts are settled, and new clothes and haircuts are acquired if affordable. Charms for good luck are placed around homes, and the first moments of the New Year are considered crucial for setting the tone for the year ahead. The characteristics of the first visitor on Tet morning can also influence a family's fortune for the entire year, making this a significant aspect of the celebration.

What is Tet?

• Full Name: Tet Nguyen Dan
• Meaning: Festival of the first day
• Duration: 7 days
• Time: Last week of January to the third week of February, on the new moon night
• Purpose: Celebrate renewal and hope for the New Year, family reunions, and welcoming ancestral spirits.

When Does it Happen?

• Calendar: Falls on the new moon night between late January and mid-February.
• Counting Age: Everyone in Vietnam becomes a year older as age is reckoned by the new year, not individual birthdays.

Crucial Moments

• First Minutes and Hours: Set the pattern for the year.
• Avoid: Arguments, swearing, or breaking anything, especially during the first three days.
• The First Visitor: Good Luck or Bad Luck
• Ideal Visitor: Respected, wealthy, and happily married individuals are considered good luck.
• Avoid: Bereaved, unemployed, accident-prone, or pregnant visitors are considered ill-favored.
• Responsibility: The first visitor's attributes could affect the family's luck for the whole year.

Old Vietnamese man preparing altar with foods during TET ©Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Vietnam and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Vietnam

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Vietnam

• Crime and personal safety tips Vietnam
• Eating and drinking in Vietnam
• Getting around Vietnam: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Vietnam
• Travel Health Vietnam
• Shopping tips for Vietnam
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Vietnam
• Travel Tips Vietnam for planning and on the go
• Vietnam Weather in September
• Vietnam Weather in November
• Vietnam Weather in June
• Vietnam Weather in July
• Vietnam Weather in December
• Vietnam Weather in August
• Vietnam Weather in January
• Vietnam Weather in February
• Vietnam weather in March
• How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• How To Get From Hanoi To Da Nang
• How to get from Hanoi to Sapa
• Vietnam Weather in April
• How to get a Vietnam visa

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 19.04.2024

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Good to know

Faqs - booking vietnam flights, how to get to the city center from noi boi airport (han).

Noi Bai Airport is 30 km from the city center. One can use the airport shuttles such as Vietnam Airlines from the air companies leaving from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. One can also use the local buses that are found at the bus stop just outside the arrival area. Taxis also can be used as a means of getting to the city center. There is also the private car transfer as a fast reliable way that requires one to pay upfront.

Is Da Nang Airport accessible (DAD)?

Yes, it is accessible. The airport has services for passengers with social needs such as user-friendly lifts and escalators. There are also special toilets for persons with disability. The airport has also sign language posts to help the disabled to get their way around the airport.

What facilities are available at Noi Bai Airport?

Noi Bai Airport has various facilities. It has a smoking area that is designated for passengers who want to smoke. Medical services are available at both Terminals 1 and 2 where medical emergencies are available. There is also a kid’s playground at both terminals where they have swings, see-saws, and mini jungle gyms.

What is the quickest way to get to the city center from Tan Son Airport (SGN)?

The use of a taxi is one of the fastest means. Taxis are reliable since they offer 24/7 door-to-door transportation hence making it easier for one to find their way around the airport. The estimated time to be taken when using taxis is approximately 20 minutes to get to the city center.

Which airport is best to explore the Mekong Delta region?

The Mekong Delta and the region lying west of it marks the southern boundary of the Vietnamese Republic where the land meets the Gulf of Thailand. The closest airport to the area is Ho Chi Minh City Airport just over 120 mi to the east and you’ll have to drive about 4h 15m along QL1A due west from there.

Can I buy Vietnamese Dong at the airport?

Yes, you can buy the local currency at any one of the international airports after your flight from the US to Vietnam. Each one has several currency exchange agents you can choose from as well as a good variety and number of ATMs if you just require enough cash for public transportation or to ride a cab to your hotel.

Are there any nonstop flights to Vietnam?

Unfortunately, there are no nonstop flights from the US to Vietnam, but you can get one-stop service from Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) via Vietnam Airlines and China Eastern while United Airlines and China Eastern provide similar service from Washington, DC (IAD) and New York City (JFK) on the east coast.

How can I visit Phu Quoc island?

Phu Quoc is the largest of the islands that lie off the western coast of Vietnam and is about 190 mi east of Ho Chi Minh City, so you’ll have to take a connecting flight from there via Vietnam Airlines to Phu Quoc International Airport on the island. The flight usually takes about 35m which leaves you plenty of time to explore.

How long is the flight to Vietnam?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Vietnam takes 23h 19m, covering a distance of 8468 miles. The most popular route is Los Angeles - Ho Chi Minh City with an average flight time of 18h 55m.

What is the cheapest flight to Vietnam?

The cheapest ticket to Vietnam from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $551 one-way, and $703 round-trip. The most popular route is from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $712.

Which airlines fly to Vietnam?

Vietnam Airlines flies the most frequently from the United States to Vietnam.

What are the most popular destinations in Vietnam?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Ho Chi Minh City (79% of total searches to Vietnam). The next most popular destinations are Hanoi (11%) and Da Nang (7%). Searches for flights to Nha Trang (1%), to Phu Quoc (0.2%) and to Hue (0.2%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Vietnam

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Vietnam flight deals.
• Noi Bai Airport (HAN) is based in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Passengers flying into Vietnam’s capital should consider using this airport since it is situated in the capital hence it makes it easier to move around the city center.
• Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) is the largest airport in Vietnam. It has two terminals, the domestic terminal, and the international terminal. The domestic terminal has two levels; the arrival hall and the departure hall of the domestic flights are all located on the ground level. The first floor is where lounges are located and have access to the four boarding bridges. A shuttle bus offers terminal connections.
• Da Nang Airport (DAD) allows traveling with pets. Passengers traveling with pets must contact the airline company to book 24 hours before departure. The passenger is required to arrive early enough at least 2 hours before departure to complete all procedures before the flight and a waiver of responsibility must be completed.
• There are one-stop flights to Vietnam. Some of the airlines that offer one-stop flights from the US include ANA and JAL via Tokyo (NRT) and EVA Air and China Airlines via Taipei (TPE). The one-stop flights might be considered by those who find the distance to be long and one needs to stop to rest for a while.
• If you are visiting My Khe Beach, consider having your flight to Da Nang International Airport. It is situated next to the beach, and it has access to central Vietnam. This help to minimize a lot of movement during one's visit.
• US citizens and permanents residents should be aware that a visa is required to visit Vietnam. Please make sure that your passport has two blank pages and is good for a period of six months from the date you enter the country. Each person is entitled to remain up to 30 days and should always travel with their papers throughout their stay.
• Additionally, it is also possible to receive a visa on arrival in Vietnam provided you have a previously approved letter from a travel agency. In this case, you will receive a visa stamp when you arrive at one of the international airports in the country. Be advised that there is a service fee for the approval letter and a fee for the visa stamp upon arrival in Vietnam.
• All flights from the US to Vietnam will terminate at one of three international airports: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), otherwise known as Hanoi Airport in the north; Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in the center of the country and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), otherwise known as Ho Chi Minh City Airport, in the south.
• The capital city of Hanoi is the largest in northern Vietnam and is the principal airport in the country. There are only two other regional airports in the area: Dien Bien Phu Airport (DIN) in the west and Cat Bi Airport (HPH) in the city of Hai Phong in the east, so you should take care with your travel plans in this area.
• Vietnam has several towns and cities that dominate its central coast along the South China Sea stretching from Vinh in the north down to Na Trang and Da Lat in the south. On arrival at Da Nang Airport, you can take a connecting flight to any of the airports along the coast, or Pleiku Airport (PXU) and Buon Ma Thuot Airport (BMV) to explore the central interior.

Top 5 airlines flying to Vietnam

The flight crews were extremely professional helpful and courteous. Departure and arrival times were accurate. No delay. Thanks

The flight crews were extremely professional, helpful, and courteous. Departure and arrival times were accurate. No delay. I will use K airline again. Thanks

Great crew, decent food Charging plugs were broken on both seats next to me. Only the USB port was available, and that charges, very, very slowly. Seat was also broken, it would not lock into position when reclining.

Korean Air had great service and the Bibimbap dish was the best airplane food I’ve ever had. It was a long flight so in between the two meals they served customers could get Shin ramen. The flight attendants let my children use a pair of nice headphones for the flight and had earbuds and slippers for all the adults. The flight was long but the time passed by relatively quickly because they have many great shows in their entertainment TV. I watched the BTS Love Yourself and Speak Yourself concerts 💜

not too bad but not too great either. Service on all airlines declined ever since covid. Your Delta Stewardess are not that friendly at all. :-(

You did not put me on a Korean Air flight! so I do not have nothing to say

My flight was diverted to Atlanta and I was not given enough time. I paid my travel on April 23, 2023. It was originally Delta from Norfolk to NY, then Korean Air from NY all the way Philippines which is my final stop. Instead from Atlanta to Korea I flew Delta which is okay. Then Korea to Philippines, I flew Asiana Airlines. What I did not like, Ieagle did not sent me an email that my flight was change and so when I went to check in Wednesday the 10th, at 4:30 a.m they told me my flight was delayed at 6;00 p.m and diverted in Atlanta and I am flying Asiana from Korea to Philippines. I do not appreciate that Kayak or Ieagle chenge our flights 5 times and then last minute change again during my day of flight. I hope that you will not make any changes of my flight o Feb 15th because it has to be the same flight with my husband. That is the reason why we made the arrangements early on.

Wonderful cabin crew!!!!! Food was poor, in flight entertainment was just ok. They need to serve more water on a 15 hour flight--we were dehydrated and kept asking for water.

Going through security a third time to get on the next flight was again utterly ridiculous and unnecessary. We were in a International secure area once again and as far as I'm concerned should not have been put through the gears for absolutely no reason. The United States can get all the information they need from the travel itinerary, there was no need to be forced out of a secure area to personally interview everyone on a connecting flight to find out their US immigration status.

Flight arrived early, fantastic, since it is short flight, no food being served

First I will say this was really NOT an ANA flight. ANA used a UNITED jet to perform this flight. I specifically booked with ANA because I did NOT WANT TO FLY UNITED FOR INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS. So to spend $1800.00 and then discover after booking that it was going to be handled by United was very disappointing. I will be more careful next time when I book. The interior was very cramped in economy class; the dinner meal was terrible and also had extremely small portions for an international flight - the bread roll was ice cold and stale - that salad was very wilted; I’ve never had a “snack” that was so salty that it was difficult to eat; the breakfast “waffle” was practically unrecognizable. Really horrible meals for a very expensive international flight. Bathroom floor was also pretty dirty. I’m hoping my return flight is a real ANA airplane that is cleaned and serviced by ANA personnel with ANA meals. I will never book with ANA again if they continue to use UNITED airline jets. Yuck!!!🤢

It was very nice. I was a bit disappointed by the few meal services. There were probably more drink services that I missed while sleeping, but I would have liked the crew to bring more than one drink service before landing and to bring more than one drink service and coffee service after take off

Food was high quality. Crew was extremely professional, polite, attentive. Flights were on time. Plane had good media tech.

It was ok I thought because my flight was 1pm i was expecting to have lunch but it didn’t and after 7 hr finally dinner time was only chicken sandwich and next breakfast was an hour before plane land in Tokyo. so I should bring some food with me. Japanese flight attend was nice but the other was chewing gum and how she ask and respond to customers was not professional I felt. Maybe because Japan flight attendant is highly train and everyone looked very dress and professional so I was kind disappointed. I like that the bathroom was very clean .

Seat was roomy enough . The Asian selection for a meal was good . The tortellini was not very good. Service was excellent. O

It was very good. Lots of room with superior food and service. I will not hesitate to fly ANA in the future!

The ANA Staff were great and the plane was comfortable.

Ana is absolute world class They should not work with united

Japan and China airlines were incredible. On board service was impeccable. All the flight attendants were helpful, friendly, and always smiling. Airplanes were very clean. The boarding crew was extremely accommodating and very nice as well. Overall I was extremely impressed.

I chose my seat for the window: there wasn’t a window in my row. The charging function for my device didn’t work.

Fast and efficient boarding. Flight was on time. Service was very good for our long flight. First time flying with this airline and I would highly recommend.

Eva Air's Business Class is pretty decent. With the given price, I think that the food can be better.

Pleasant, comfortable, and entertaining. All told, ZERO issues with it. And sadly, so far the flight was WAY more comfortable than the hellhole that is "Lambug Beach Resort" at Badian Beach!

It was a pleasant fly with Eva Air from NYC to Taipei. The crew were friendly and the food was exceeded my expectation.

Seats could have been more comfortable, but it was a pretty good experience all things considered

Eva air is a good airline. The seats on the way to Taipei could have certainly been more comfortable, but all in all it was a pretty good experience.

Overall the flight was what might be expected for a long haul flight to Asia in economy class. The cabin crew was attentive and the food was good. Boarding was fairly fast and easy. The one thing I found frustrating was the EVA app. It is terrible. Trying to do anything on it was almost impossible.

Poor services. Not meet 5-star airline standard. Disappointed with the poor food and drink selections. Cabin crew is not attentive at all. They even skipped me during meal service (not sure if it is intentionally).

EVA would not help with ticket issue since they were purchased through a travel agency. Even though it was EVA ticket stock. Travel agency Budget Air didn't reissue ticket after airline change which I didn’t learn until trying to checkin on Christmas Day and there was no contact number for the agency to help. I will never use Budget Air to purchase flight again and disappointed in EVA’s refusal to help. Thankfully just under 12 hrs before departure someone from the agency was available to reissue tickets. I was starting to think we would not be flying and the stress trying to resolve was completely unacceptable.

seamless check in/ friendly staff, food is good, always love flying Eva Air

They were helpful, considerate with asking us for standby preboarding with our infant, gave us toys and excellent service onboard. They were always on time, even early boarding once! All our luggage arrived intact, and they even brought our baby car seat to oversized for us. We love China Airlines!

Great flight, although I flew out of ONT and that is where my car is, lol

Better training to have qualified crews and services. My flight was from around 12 midnight Friday Taipei to Vancouver. After two hours first meal (2:00 Am -8:00 ) no crew available for even asking for some water. I was even willing to pay for water. For breakfast after 8 hours the only drink was tea and coffee no water or juice.

Ask flight attendant for water during flight and she was a little rude get the water.

Baggage made it successfully to destination despite short layover. Appreciate that.

Staff were good and nice. There should me 3 meals instead of only 2 and snacks.

Flight was delay almost 2 hours from Hong Kong to Taipei. Last minute gate change from 24 to 66. Long way walk. We need to run in the Taipei airport to catch our next flight from Taipei to Vancouver. That is so suck!

Excellent staff made the boarding process fast and easy. Friendly crews on both flights from Saigon to Taipei and Taipei to Los Angeles. Will fly China Airlines again.

For a long-haul flight, the crew did a very good job of keeping the lavatories clean and the aisles clear.

The plane was an older model and the entertainment was hard to enjoy on those small screens. I struggled to see clear anything I wanted to watch. The seats where a bit uncomfortable but for a 3 hours flight it was pretty ok. The rest of services were excellent. Highly recommend China Airlines to others.

Big plane, long flight, absolutely no leg room and basically non existent air! I am 5”4’ and always travel Main Cabin, I was miserable on this plane and could barely move when we arrived in Cabo due to the cramped leg area!

From Atlanta to Cabo I would have hoped on a plane that size I would have been able to breathe and wiggle my feet a little! The leg room in that plane is non existent and I am only 5”4’. And the air vent either wasn’t working very well or just could not blow air from the ceiling to the seat area as I was suffocating through the entire flight! And please don’t say I would have been more comfortable in first class because I cannot afford those rates and have always travelled Main Cabin without issues !

The pilots were good. Disappointing when planes don't have electrical ports

I liked the piloting of the aircraft. Very disappointed about lack of electrical ports. Also, although a short flight. there was enough time to hand out snacks to comfort + seats as was done for first class.

I had a wonderful experience flying with delta. The gentleman taking care of us on our flight was so nice, accommodating, and attentive. He always was smiling and giving pins to the kids which made me smile. The flight was quick too and without turbulence. Thank you for the great flying experience.

Delta is one of the best airlines I have flown

Made the Atlanta to Pittsburgh trip many times, with Delta no issues

I always fly with Delta. My friends tell me their horror stories of flying with other airlines. I just smile and say, “You should fly Delta”

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

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Best time to book cheap flights to vietnam.

Air travel is a popular choice to get to Vietnam. For many, traveling to Vietnam will have a specific budget and mostly consider ways to get cheap flight tickets at a reasonable fare. Our travel guide has information and tips that you might find helpful to choose the best way and the best time to book cheap flights to Vietnam.

Airlines with Flights to Vietnam

Due to the huge demand for many overseas Vietnamese and foreign visitors, there are now many flights to Vietnam from various parts of the world. Regarding Vietnamese air travel service providers, Vietnam Airlines is now on the top list for its highly dependable service and a large number of international flights operated daily. Not only are there many flights from Asian countries such as China, Japan, and Korea to Vietnam but the airline also operates many direct flights from Europe linking from major cities like London and Paris. Besides, America and Australia are also in Vietnam Airlines’ route network with flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Many flights at lower fare require transits or layovers, but they are quite good for getting around and taking a break on a long trip.

For budget airlines, Vietjet Air has recently opened its network operating flights within Asia. The flight fare of this airline is lower than that of Vietnam Airlines, which is an advantage for Vietjet as it meets the budget demand of many people.  Besides, Jetstar Pacific is another trusted airline brand in Vietnam with many cheap flights to Vietnam.

The downside of these budgeted airlines is that they often get delayed or you might have your flight changed and announced a few hours prior to scheduled departure due to late aircraft arrival. If you have time to spare and don’t have the high possibility of this downside, using these budgeted airlines could make a difference in airfares.

And if you’ll need to travel on a long flight, check out these ideas on how to spend time during a flight .

International Airports in Vietnam

There are 11 international airports in Vietnam, and the biggest ones are Noi Bai International Airport in the capital of Ha Noi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport  in Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang International Airport as the main airport in Central Vietnam. Phu Quoc Airport on Phu Quoc Island is also another busy airport in Vietnam, but it operates fewer international flights than the above 3 mentioned.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) as one of the busiest airports in Vietnam

Best Time to Travel to Vietnam

Knowing when to travel to Vietnam not only allows you to have the best experience and well prepared, like what to pack but also gives you information on when to book the flight ticket.

Vietnam has 3 different climatic zones and it is hard to choose a perfect time of the year for the whole country. However, the time between November and April is the most popular time to travel. The North and the Central experience from cool weather in autumn (July to September) and cold days in winter (October to December) to refreshing spring between January and March. This is also the ideal time to travel to the South as it is during the dry season. Many people choose to come to Vietnam this time because of the Tet holiday or the snowy winter in Sapa .

Snow in Sapa at the end of the year always attracts a large number of tourists

Ho Chi Minh City in the dry season

Tips to Get Cheap Flights to Vietnam

• As mentioned before, there are many airlines operating flights to Vietnam and to get the best deal you should have a look at them all before choosing one airline to go. Cost-wise, you should choose a budget airline instead of a full-service airline and consider pay only for services needed , such as insurance, seat selections, meals, and baggage allowance.
• The international tourism season in Vietnam is from November to April while the domestic tourism season includes Tet holiday (January – February), summer starting from early June to late August  and other Vietnamese holidays like Vietnam Reunification Day and Vietnam Independence Day. The flight ticket at the peak of the season is much higher so you should book the tickets in the offseason . With that information, March and April, or September and October are ideal months to book cheap flights to Vietnam.
• You should book the tickets 3 months in advance. That may be the best tip to get the lowest fares for everyone planning to travel somewhere. Midweek booking and avoid booking flights during office hours and weekends (early morning and late evening) are also helpful tips for booking cheap flights to Vietnam.
• Book the airline tickets yourself instead of via an agency can also save you some money like the payment for the service fee.
• You can subscribe to your favorite or budget airlines as they will send discount and promotion information to your email on a regular basis.
• 2 one-way tickets are usually cheaper than a return ticket, so consider buying them, even from 2 different airlines, to save money. When our team members travel domestically, we usually save on average approximately USD 20 – 30 for the roundtrip by booking with different airlines scouting different flight times on the same day.
• Last but not least, there are some places in the world that offer destination deals, which has many cheap flights to encourage other tourism services like shopping and hotels.

More on What to Prepare for a Long-haul Flight to Vietnam

Summary of Best Time to Book Cheap Flights to Vietnam

Booking cheap flights to Vietnam means researching the airlines, booking time, and travel time. Avoid going during the peak season or booking flights early can help you to get affordable flights to Vietnam. Everything in Vietnam, wonderful from the scenic views to the amazing food can treat you well when you come to the S-shaped country.

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How Long is the Flight to Vietnam from the U.S.?

The flight time from the U.S. to Vietnam ranges from 16 hours 20 minutes to around 37 hours depending on the place of departure and destination, number of layovers, and connection time (for one-stop and two-stop flights).

For instance, the average flight time from San Francisco (U.S.) to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) is 16 hours and 20 minutes for a direct flight. However, the flight time is around 30 hours for one-stop and two-stop flights.

Flight Time to Vietnam from the U.S. in Detail

Non-stop flight time.

You can now fly non-stop to Vietnam from the U.S. via the route from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City. The direct flight by Vietnam Airlines takes around 16 hours and 20 minutes on average . 

As of 2023, Vietnam Airlines, the first and only flag carrier flying directly to Vietnam from the U.S. and vice versa, operates one frequent flight per day on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The table below provides detailed information on the latest flight schedule from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City: 

For an ultra-long-haul flight, you should have preparations for surviving over 16 hours in a sitting position. You should consider Vietnam Airlines’ exclusive Sky Sofa service, available at just USD 400/seat row/passenger. The service aims to make your journey even more delightful. 

>>> For more information, visit Sky Sofa: Comfort For Long Journeys .

Sky Sofa, served by Vietnam Airlines, is the perfect solution for you on a long-haul flight from the U.S. to Vietnam

One-Stop Flight Time

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are favored places where foreign visitors begin their exploration of Vietnam.

From the U.S. to Hanoi

The table below shows the average flight time from 5 cities in the U.S. to Hanoi.

From the U.S. to Ho Chi Minh City

The table below shows the average flight time from 5 cities in the U.S. to Ho Chi Minh City.

The flight duration mentioned above is subject to standard conditions. However, unforeseen circumstances such as airport congestion, technical issues, and other external factors could lead to changes in the schedule. 

To ensure accuracy before booking your flight ticket from the U.S. to Vietnam, it is recommended that you check the most up-to-date information on the airline’s official website.

Let’s fly with Vietnam Airlines on the journey to Vietnam from the U.S.

How long does it take to fly from California to Vietnam?

The average flight time from California to Vietnam is around 18 hours for connecting flights. It is the flight from San Diego to Ho Chi Minh City with a layover in Tokyo.

How many hours does it take to fly from New York to Vietnam?

Typically, the travel time for flights from New York to Vietnam ranges from 21 to 24 hours, considering the layover destination and waiting duration.

Which is the shorter flight, to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

The flight from the U.S. to Ho Chi Minh City is shorter than the flight to Hanoi. The flight time from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City is 16 hours 10 minutes, while the flight to Hanoi takes 20 hours 30 minutes.

How to buy a cheap flight ticket from the U.S. to Vietnam?

Here are 5 tips for finding cheap flights to Vietnam:

• Book mid-week flights: Be flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week flights tend to be cheaper than weekends.
• Plan and begin your search for flights well in advance: Typically, booking tickets in advance results in better prices than booking them close to the flight date.
• Register for fare alerts through different travel websites or airlines: These notifications will inform you of ticket price reductions or promotional offers.
• Compare prices: Utilize flight search engines to compare prices among various airlines and travel websites. Websites such as Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak are valuable resources for discovering the best deals.
• Take into account the option of connecting flights: While non-stop flights are typically more convenient, they can also be expensive. Connecting flights may present better deals for your consideration.

Domestic flights in Vietnam

Domestic flights in Vietnam are a solution. With a coastline as long as the American east coast, it can be a challenge for travelers to travel from north to south: the distance between the capital Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is 1,150 kilometers, a journey of 38 hours by train and can take even longer by bus.

But the rapid development of the economy has created an ideal environment for the growth of the aviation industry in a way that you would not expect from a developing country.

With the arrival of a number of budget airlines, domestic air travel became an affordable option. The 38-hour train journey between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City now takes two hours by plane, the fare is essentially the same and it is much safer than the bus.

• Book airline tickets

Airports in Vietnam

Flight times, airlines in vietnam, book airline tickets for domestic flights in vietnam.

Domestic flights in Vietnam are not expensive, but not as cheap as the bus. Sometimes you have competitive offers, especially if you pre-book an airline ticket. Always check the booking conditions, in many cases the date is fixed and you will not get a refund if you want to cancel.

You can book the cheapest domestic flights via traveloka . This website is also 9 out of 10 times cheaper for other destinations within Asia than other websites, including the prices you find via websites such as Skyscanner and Momondo .

To give a broad estimate, charge for a single ticket in Vietnam between $ 35 and $ 80. The prices depend very much on the season. Expect to pay more in the high season. Are you traveling during Tet New Year? Make sure you have booked your flights well in advance.

Keep in mind that you always have the credit card with which the tickets were booked. Due to the action against credit card fraud, strict checks are carried out. In addition, always offer sufficient time (at least 2 hours, but longer recommended) between two flights, especially if one of the two is an international flight.

Domestic airports in the north of Vietnam:

• Hanoi Airport (HAN) Location: 40 minutes from the center of Hanoi, 3.5 hours to Halong Bay, 4.5 hours to Sapa
• Hai Phong Airport (HPH) Location: 2.5 hours to / from Hanoi and 1.5 hours to Halong Bay

Domestic airports in the center of Vietnam:

• Da Nang Airport (DAD) Location: 10 minutes to the center of Da Nang, 30 minutes to Hoi An and 2.5 hours to Hue
• Hue Airport (HUI) Location: 20 minutes to the center of Hue, 2.5 hours to Da Nang and 3 hours to Hoi An
• Nha Trang Airport (CXR) Location: 35 minutes to the center of Nha Trang and 2.5 hours to Dalat
• Dalat Airport (DLI) Location: 45 minutes to the center, 3.5 hours to Nha Trang
• Vinh Airport (VII) Location: 15 minutes to the center of Vinh

Domestic airports in the south of Vietnam:

• Ho Chi Minh City Airport (SGN) Location: 30 minutes to the center of Ho Chi Minh city
• Con Dao Airport (VCS) Location: 10 minutes to the center of Con Dao
• Phu Quoc Airport (PQC) Location: 20 minutes to Duong Dong

Some examples of flight times of domestic flights in Vietnam:

The four largest airlines in Vietnam are:

• Vietnam Airlines
• Jetstar Pacific
• Bamboo Airways

Vietnam Airlines is still the main operator on most routes, both within Vietnam and from Vietnam to other international destinations. The company has flights to most cities in Vietnam and offers reasonably good services for its size.

Jetstar Pacific and VietJetAir are budget airlines and therefore often a lot cheaper. You can fly safely with these airlines. Just keep in mind that these airlines have not a good reputation for departing on time. Bamboo Airways is the newest airline company in Vietnam, started their first commercial flights in late 2018, but already building up a good reputation.

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These are the best times to buy an international flight

Editor's note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.

Don't fret about your airfare budget if you're planning an international trip and trying to pinch pennies. Just plan ahead and study the best times to book.

While you can often find great deals year-round thanks to regular flash sales from the biggest airlines, you can't always rely on the timing. In these situations, it's good to look at wider booking trends and the seasonality of your destination when deciding how far in advance you should book.

When is the best time to buy international flights? Is it worth waiting for a last-minute deal, or should you lock in that airfare right this second? CheapAir — a website where you can search for inexpensive airfare and compare flights — looked at all the possible days to book trips from the U.S. to different regions worldwide. The website identified which days are best to score the cheapest airfare.

Which days of the week are the cheapest to fly?

Generally, Tuesday and Wednesday are always the least expensive days of the week to fly; Sunday is, more often than not, the most expensive. On average, you could save between $25 and $350 by traveling on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your destination. When exactly to book, however, does vary between regions.

You'll find a summary of the website's other findings and a more detailed breakdown of CheapAir's results below.

Best time to buy: Three to 10 months before your travel date.

Cheapest months to travel: February and March.

Most expensive months to travel: August and December.

Fares in spring and fall tend to be marginally better — roughly $25 less — than those in winter and summer. If you're traveling as a family, you may find these savings worth it; if you're a solo traveler, this amount of money is fairly minimal and might not be worth changing your travel plans around to keep in your wallet.

If you're planning a summer trip, you'll ideally want to look to book around eight to 10 months in advance to take advantage of the lowest fares; winter is similarly aligned. Fall and spring, however, see the best fares as late as five to six months before travel.

Best time to buy: One to five months before your travel date.

Cheapest months to travel: January and February.

Airfare to Mexico is fairly consistent throughout the year but can be slightly cheaper in January and February if you really want to save those pennies.

Broadly speaking, you don't need to give yourself too much time between booking and traveling unless you're looking for a December winter getaway. If so, it's best to book about seven months before your travel date.

Best time to buy: Two to five months before your travel date.

Cheapest months to travel: September and October.

Most expensive months to travel: July and December.

Traveling to the Caribbean from the U.S. is relatively straightforward if you're looking for optimal pricing with good options dotted throughout every month.

If you're looking for a Christmas escape, you might want to book around five months before you plan to travel. During summer, you can often find good late deals — about one to two months before traveling.

Central America and South America

Unsurprisingly it's more expensive flying to both Central America and South America during the summer and winter months — particularly around the holidays.

If you're looking for the perfect window, consider traveling to the region during spring, when ticket prices are about $50 to $60 less on average than during other seasons.

South Pacific

Best time to buy: Nine to 10 months before your travel date.

Cheapest months to travel: January and April.

Most expensive months to travel: October and November.

To really see any savings on flights to the South Pacific from the U.S., you'll need to look at booking at least eight months out.

If you're hoping to travel in spring or fall, you can afford to wait a little longer since the differences in savings are fairly minimal.

Best time to buy: 10 months before your travel date.

As with travel to the South Pacific, Asia doesn't deviate too much. You'll want to book at least eight months out to find the best prices.

The busiest months tend to be August and December (around the Christmas rush). If you're flexible, spring and fall may offer better prices.

Best time to buy: One to seven months before your travel date.

Cheapest months to travel: October and November.

Most expensive months to travel: May and June.

It goes without saying that the most expensive time to travel to Europe is during the summer months. Average airfares will regularly come in at more than $1,100. Plus, once you arrive, you'll be competing for space with European vacationers looking for some sun closer to home.

If you're flexible with your travel dates, you might find that fall shoulder season fares come in, on average, about $200 less than summer fares. Depending on your destination, you can still chase the weather and sunbathe in sunny climates.

With consistent flights to Europe running throughout all seasons, you can find good fares quite late in the game. If you'd rather get your plans settled early, look to book around six to seven months before you travel.

Middle East

Best time to buy: Two to 10 months before your travel date.

The sweet spot for booking flights to the Middle East from the U.S. appears to be about eight months before you're set to travel.

The winter and summer periods are definitely the busiest here. If you're traveling during the spring and fall, you have a little more leeway regarding when to book. You can often find good deals around two to three months before you travel.

Cheapest month to travel: February.

Most expensive month to travel: July.

If you're planning an escape to Africa, it's wise to book your flights as early as possible throughout most of the year. The only outlier is if you want to visit in spring when you can often get good deals for flights quite close to your planned departure date — around three months before.

Keep in mind that the rainy season falls during the spring months in some parts of the continent.

Bottom line

If you can plan far ahead, it can pay to book travel many months in advance. If you need a shorter booking window, it is still possible to find good fares as long as you're flexible with both the destination and the conditions in your chosen locale (as deals are commonly available during off-season periods when the weather might not be entirely desirable).

Note: While the above information is a fairly consistent guide to finding the best prices to travel, there are always outliers. For example, trips to London during the coronation or Munich during Oktoberfest will probably cost more since these are peak tourist times. In these instances, it's often worth checking for flight deals or holding out for flash sales.

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• What exactly are airline miles, anyway?
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations

Flight Attendants Reveal the Best Time to Ask for a Flight Upgrade

While free upgrades are rare, travelers can ask to pay for a seat upgrade any time between booking and boarding their flight

Flight attendants are sharing their insider tips on how to score an upgrade on your next flight.

According to two former flight crew members, travelers very rarely are given a free upgrade to a better seat — with the exception of frequent flyers with elite status — but they can ask to pay for one, per Travel + Leisure .

The flight attendants told the outlet that upgrade requests can be made any time between booking the flight and boarding, though they advised that travelers ask as early in the process as possible.

Passengers can inquire about paid upgrades — using either cash or accrued miles — with the airline at the time of booking. If they strike out, they can try again at the check-in desk when they arrive at the airport for their flight.

Related: Here's Why Flight Attendants Sit on Their Hands During Takeoff and Landing on Airplanes

If they are told no, hope is not lost. On some flights, passengers who booked a first-class or business seat may fail to show up for their flight. In that case, savvy travelers can speak to the gate agent just before boarding to see if they can pay to upgrade to one of those unfilled seats.

A final option is to ask the lead flight attendant or the flight attendant at the boarding door.

"You should ask prior to door closure, but don't be surprised if they don't move you until after you're in the air if they're going to grant your request," Bobby Laurie, a travel expert and former American Airlines flight attendant, told Travel + Leisure .

Susan Fogwell, a former flight attendant with 22 years of experience, pointed out that travelers are more likely to score a paid upgrade to an economy-plus seat than first or business class.

Related: You Actually Should Stand Up ASAP When the Plane Lands, Says Travel Expert: Here's Why (Exclusive)

"While sitting in a cramped middle seat or squeezed in at a window seat, a passenger observes an empty economy plus seat and will ask if they can change seats," Fogwell explained to Travel + Leisure . "Standard procedure is to wait until the door closes to see if everybody shows up for the flight. If the seat is available, the passenger pays for the upgrade on the flight."

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Frogwell also dismissed stories of people being given upgrades to business or first class based on their looks or how they're dressed.

"This simply never happened at the major airline where I worked," she told  Travel + Leisure . "If a flight attendant moved a passenger from one class to another, the flight attendant would not have a job for long. The difference in price is in the thousands, depending on the route."

"There is also a team of flight attendants on board who would be aware of the 'free upgrade.' So when someone tells a story about a so-called free upgrade, take it with a grain of salt," she added.

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