In 2024, nearly 17.6 million international visitors arrived in Vietnam, marking a remarkable tourism comeback. Thanks to new visa policies, improved infrastructure, and a growing reputation on the world stage, Vietnam is once again a must-visit destination.
Whether you’re drawn to its historic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, world-renowned cuisine, or warm hospitality, Vietnam offers an experience unlike any other.
Vietnam’s climate varies significantly from north to south, making it a year-round destination—except from May to November, when the rainy season brings heavy downpours, storms, and occasional flooding. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit:
Winter (December–February):
The average temperature ranges from 15°C in the north (Hanoi and Ha Long Bay) to 25–30°C in the south (Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta). This is the best time for sightseeing, with cool, dry weather ideal for exploring cities, historical sites, and natural landscapes. It’s also peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Spring (March–May):
Temperatures rise to around 20–30°C, making this a great time for outdoor activities. Central and southern Vietnam enjoy warm, sunny weather, making it perfect for beaches in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. The rice fields in northern regions like Sapa start turning lush green, and early treks become possible as the chill fades away.
Summer (June–August):
The hottest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 28–35°C. This is the rainy season in most regions, with heavy but short downpours, especially in the south. The central coast, however, remains relatively dry, making it a good time for beach trips to Hoi An and Da Nang. Despite the humidity, travelers still enjoy cultural festivals and adventure activities.
Autumn (September–November):
Temperatures gradually drop from 30°C to around 20°C. The north experiences cooler, comfortable weather, making it ideal for trekking in Sapa and Ha Giang. However, central Vietnam sees heavy rains and typhoons, which may disrupt travel plans.
| Region | Best time to visit | Weather conditions |
| North | October—April | Cool, dry winters; avoid Jul–Sep (rainy) |
| Central | February—May | Warm, dry; avoid Oct–Dec (typhoons) |
| South | December—April | Dry, sunny; avoid May–Nov (monsoon) |
Vietnam's cultural calendar includes several standout festivals that showcase the country's rich traditions. These events are a great way to experience Vietnam's history, art, and community spirit. For example:
| Month | Event name | Description |
| January | Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) | Vietnam’s biggest holiday, featuring fireworks, family gatherings, and feasts. |
| February | Perfume Pagoda Festival | Spiritual pilgrimage to the Perfume Pagoda, where pilgrims enjoy boat rides |
| March | Hue Festival | Major cultural event held every two years in Hue, celebrating the city's imperial history & culture. |
| Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival | Festival showcasing Vietnam’s famous coffee culture with celebrations | |
| April | Hùng Kings Temple Festival | A traditional celebration honoring Vietnam’s ancient kings, marked by parades |
| June | Da Nang International Fireworks Festival | A global fireworks competition featuring cultural performances |
| October | Mid-Autumn Festival | Festival featuring lantern processions, lion dances, mooncakes, and family gatherings |
If you're looking to explore Vietnam without breaking the bank, timing is everything. The cheapest time to visit is during the shoulder season (May–September) when prices for flights, accommodations, and activities drop significantly.
Here's a breakdown of average costs you might expect during your visit:
Accommodation:
Meals:
Drinks:
Transportation:
Attractions:
While you’ll need to be prepared for occasional rainy weather, especially in central and southern Vietnam, this period offers great savings and fewer crowds at popular tourist sites.
Unlike the peak season (December–February) when prices surge due to the influx of travelers, the shoulder season allows budget-conscious visitors to enjoy Vietnam’s top attractions at a fraction of the cost. Many hotels, airlines, and tour operators lower their rates, making it a great time to visit if you're flexible with your travel dates.
Packing the right items for Vietnam matters because the weather, culture, and activities vary widely, so being prepared ensures you stay comfortable and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Tech:
Clothing:
Health:
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam, whether for tourism or business. You must apply in advance, either through an e-visa, a visa on arrival (VOA) with pre-approval, or by visiting a Vietnamese embassy. The e-visa is the easiest option, allowing a 90-day stay with single or multiple entries, and typically takes about three business days to process.
If you prefer a visa on arrival, you’ll need to obtain a pre-approval letter from a travel agency before landing, and you can only use this option at select international airports. For those planning an extended stay or multiple visits, applying directly through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate is the best choice, offering visas valid for up to one year.
eSIMs have revolutionized the way travelers stay connected, offering a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional SIM cards and expensive roaming plans. With an eSIM, you can easily activate a data plan before you even arrive in Vietnam, ensuring you’re online as soon as you land.
Here are the top 3 eSIM choices for staying connected in Vietnam:
Holafly
Holafly is a reliable choice for those who need unlimited data to stay connected while exploring Vietnam. Whether you're uploading photos of the Golden Bridge in Da Nang or navigating the maze-like streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Holafly ensures you’re always online.
Airalo
Airalo is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who need flexible data plans. With coverage across Vietnam, you can easily stay connected while visiting popular destinations like Hoi An’s ancient town or the Mekong Delta.
Saily
Saily offers competitive pricing and wide coverage, making it a great option for travelers who want reliable connectivity without breaking the bank.
Here’s a breakdown of the plans and pricing for the three eSIM providers in one easy-to-read table:
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
 | Holafly | Unlimited data, easy activation, 24/7 customer support | Slightly higher price, no hotspot sharing | from $6.90 (unlimited data) |
 | Airalo | Affordable, flexible plans, easy setup via app | Limited data packages, no calls or texts | $4.50 for 1GB of data |
 | Saily | Wide coverage, competitive pricing | Occasional signal drops, no voice calls | $5.99 for 1GB over 7 days |
Avoid October and November, especially in central Vietnam, as these months bring heavy rains, typhoons, and flooding, which can disrupt travel plans.
The rainy season (May–October in the south, September–December in the central region) varies, with short, heavy showers in the south but more persistent rain and potential flooding in central areas.
Start in Hanoi for history and culture, Ho Chi Minh City for a modern, energetic vibe, or Da Nang if you want a mix of beaches and easy access to central attractions like Hoi An and Hue.
Vietnam is generally very affordable, with budget travelers spending as little as $30–$50 per day, while luxury experiences are also available at a lower cost than in Western countries.
$100 can cover two to three days of budget travel, including accommodation, food, transport, and sightseeing, or it can get you a high-end meal, a spa treatment, and a guided tour.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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