CnTraveller recommends the best time to visit Vietnam

CnTraveller suggests that if tourists are planning a trip to Vietnam - a country located in Southeast Asia, they should find out the best time of the year to visit, specifically the destinations on the itinerary, including the capital Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City, central beaches or islands of Ha Long Bay.

Time to visit Vietnam also depends on where you're going, be it the mountainous north or the palm-fringed beaches of the south, stretching over 1,600 km, each region offers a different climate experience.

Admiring the beautiful terraced fields of Sa Pa or sunbathing at one of the beach hotels on Phu Quoc Island a day later are extremely attractive experiences when in Vietnam.

Sapa in the mist (Photo: Collection)

When is the best time to go to Vietnam?

In general, the best time for international tourists to visit Vietnam is from April to June. Around this time, the skies are usually clear across the country and temperatures are pleasant (because it's not too hot and humid). Then right after this period, tropical storms or heavy rains will occur more often and you will need to consider carefully before making travel plans.

Although Vietnam may be known for its tropical climate, it can be very cold in the North during the winter months of November to January, stated Chris Schalkx. Temperatures below 10°C are not unheard of, so bring a jacket if you want to visit Vietnam. And if Sa Pa is on your itinerary, the best time to plan a trip is in the spring to see the flower fields in full bloom.

For those who love the sea, Central Vietnam is a suitable destination for tourists to experience and explore. Hoi An Ancient Town and Hue are at their best from March to August when clear skies and warm ocean waters make nearby shores ideal for beach holidays.

Perfume River, Hue (Photo: Collection)

Besides, Chris Schalkx is also especially impressed with the Pagoda-Bridge (or Chùa Cầu) in Hoi An. Associated with the ancient historic trading port, the Pagoda-Bridge has become an indispensable destination when tourists walk around Hoi An Ancient Town. Walking along the winding streets with shops on both sides, stopping at art galleries or cafes next to the grocery store, enjoying coconut water in the shop are experiences not to be missed.

Chua Cau (Photo: Collection)

A little further south, Nha Trang also attracts a large number of beach-loving tourists here. The beaches in Nha Trang can be visited almost every month of the year but occasionally experience torrential downpours from October to December.

Nha Trang (Photo: TITC)

When is the best time to go to Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City?

The capital Ha Noi (Vietnam) is said to be a destination with beauty all year round but is most pleasant from April to June when the temperature is not too high and the rain is not too much.

This is also a great time to visit the impressive limestone mountains of Ha Long Bay, just before tropical storms frequently make landfall from July to September.

Ha Noi (Photo: Collection)

Meanwhile, in Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant and noisy streets will be a destination that international tourists should visit while here. To avoid the windy season, plan your trip between November and May, when temperatures hover around 30°C and the chance of rain is minimal.

From June to September, Ho Chi Minh City often gets wet but afternoon showers are quite predictable and usually don't last too long.

In addition, the rainy season in Vietnam usually lasts from May to early November. The peak months with scattered heavy rains are June, July, and August.

Ho Chi Minh City (Photo: Collection)

Another suggestion is to come to Vietnam during Lunar New Year - the time to celebrate the Vietnamese New Year around the end of January or early February. There are many exciting entertainment activities and festivals to look forward to.

Remember that travelling during this time can be challenging: flights and buses are booked up weeks in advance and many businesses are closed, but Lunar New Year is still a time worth exploring in Vietnam for International travellers, indicated Chris Schalkx.

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