Best Time to Visit Hanoi

What Is the Best Time to Visit Hanoi? - October to April

The best time to visit Hanoi is from October to April of the following year. Why?

1. All weather conditions are relatively pleasant.

First, the temperature during this period stays within a mild range: highs rarely exceed 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit), and lows seldom drop below 10℃ (50℉). There is no stifling heat that discourages outdoor activities, nor is there piercing cold that calls for heavy layers. Whether you take a leisurely walk through the Temple of Literature, wander in the old quarter, or taste local signature warm snacks like a bowl of authentic beef pho and river crab hot pot, you will enjoy a generally comfortable physical sensation.

Second, rainfall is scarce at this time, with the monthly average rainfall mostly below 50 mm and only a handful of days with some rainfall. The weather is predominantly sunny and cloudy, and persistent or heavy rain is exceedingly rare. Therefore, your travel plans will hardly be disrupted.

Third, UV intensity remains mostly moderate at levels 7 to 8, without the extreme sun exposure typical of midsummer. Moreover, this relatively gentle sunlight provides ideal natural conditions for photography.

2. Beautiful Natural Landscapes

December to April is the golden period to enjoy Hanoi’s natural scenery. From December to February, Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake are often shrouded in mist. In the early morning, gauze-like mist floats over the lakes, with pavilions, embankments, and green trees faintly visible, resembling an elegant ink wash painting - serene and poetic. From March to April, as temperatures rise, flowers bloom one after another on Hanoi’s streets, in parks, and along the lakeshores. Colorful blooms dot the city, infusing it with vibrant vitality.

3. Traditional Cultural Events

February and April are the perfect times to experience Vietnam’s traditional culture, as the Vietnamese New Year - Tet and the Hung Kings Commemoration Day usually fall within these two months.

The first day of the first lunar month, which falls on February 17th in 2026, marks Tet. During the festival, red lanterns and couplets line every street and alley. Strolling through the Old Quarter, you can fully immerse yourself in the lively festive atmosphere and pick up unique small souvenirs. Additionally, traditional performances like dragon and lion dance are held at most major scenic spots - vibrant and energetic.

The 10th day of the third lunar month, corresponding to April 26th, 2026, is Hung Kings Commemoration Day. On this day, you can witness grand sacrificial ceremonies and cultural performances held at venues like the Temple of Literature. Locals also organize a rich array of folk activities, including spring folk singing, tug-of-war, and banh chung wrapping contests, letting you fully immerse yourself in authentic Vietnamese traditions.

4. Other Special Celebrations

Hanoi boasts a particularly strong celebration atmosphere in December, as Christmas and New Year’s Eve arrive one after the other.

During the Christmas period, all major scenic spots and commercial areas are decorated with Christmas trees and Santa Claus ornaments, creating a strong festive atmosphere. The Hanoi Cathedral is illuminated with warm yellow lights, and the entire building is enveloped in a soft glow, making it the most eye-catching sight.

New Year’s Eve on December 31 is also lively, with music and dance performances at many attractions and shopping malls that fill the air with excitement. The night’s unmissable highlight is the fireworks show at Hoan Kiem Lake at midnight - lighting up promptly at 00:00 and lasting 15 minutes, you can welcome the new year with family and friends beneath the dazzling display.

The Best Time = Peak Season

Due to the above reasons, the best period attracts a large number of visitors, making it Hanoi’s peak tourist season. As a result, flights and hotels become harder to book even though the price rises, so be sure to make reservations in advance to ensure a smooth trip.

Shoulder and Slack Seasons for Visiting Hanoi

May and September mark the shoulder season in Hanoi. During these months, the climate is in a transitional phase: temperatures are slightly higher than in the peak season, and showers are a bit more frequent, yet overall they do not significantly disrupt travel plans. Furthermore, visitor numbers are modest, so attractions are not overly crowded, and prices for flights, hotels, and other services are more budget-friendly. This makes it an ideal time that balances both travel experience and cost-effectiveness.

June to August is Hanoi’s low tourist season, mainly due to scorching heat and frequent rainfall. You often have to stay indoors to escape from the intense heat. However, the biggest advantage of this period is its extremely low travel costs - accommodation and flight prices are generally at their annual lowest. If you have a tight budget, a high tolerance for hot weather, and are willing to explore more indoor attractions, the low season is not a bad choice.