Vietnam Weather & Climate
Planning a trip to Vietnam? You're in for a treat, but knowing when to go can make all the difference. Stretching more than 1,600 kilometres from the cool misty mountains of the north to the warm tropical beaches of the south, Vietnam's weather is wonderfully diverse. It's one of those countries where you can pack a jacket and a swimsuit and use both in the same week!
Thanks to its long, slender shape and varied geography, Vietnam doesn't have one simple "wet" or "dry" season that applies everywhere. Instead, the country experiences a mix of climates - from Hanoi's crisp winter mornings and Halong Bay's cool mists, to Hoi An's golden dry season and Ho Chi Minh City's balmy year-round warmth.
Rather than thinking of Vietnam as having a single climate, it's best to think of it as three distinct weather zones (north, central and south) each with its own personality and ideal travel months. Whether you're chasing sunshine on the coast, exploring ancient towns, or escaping into the green highlands, understanding the weather patterns will help you plan the perfect itinerary.
With warm temperatures throughout most of the year and plenty of sunshine to be found, Vietnam is a destination that welcomes travellers year-round. You'll just experience it a little differently depending on where you visit.
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa & Mountains)
Seasons & Conditions:
Winter (Nov-Apr): Cooler, drier weather in the north. Hanoi typically experiences temperatures ranging from 17-22 °C.
Summer/Wet Season (May-Oct): Hot, humid and heavy rainfall. In Hanoi, highs can push into the 30 °C+ range with high humidity, particularly June to August.
Things to know:
- Rainfall peaks mid-summer, so sightseeing (especially outdoors) may be impacted.
- Mist and low cloud can affect views in places like Halong Bay or Sapa.
- Mountains bring cooler temperatures, so bring a warm jacket if heading north.
Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Danang, Coast)
Seasons & Conditions:
Summer (Jan-Aug): This region experiences very hot, dry weather in many parts throughout the summer months.
Wet Season (Sept-Dec): The wet season hits with heavy rainfall, particularly during the late rainy season, bringing risk of storms and flooding in this central coastal strip.
Things to know:
- Typhoons can affect the central coast in the later part of the year.
- Even in 'dry' months, expect heat and strong sun on the beach.
- If staying in heritage towns like Hoi An, rainfall may affect walking/strolling plans in late rainy season.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta & Beaches)
Seasons & Conditions:
The south has a simpler climate: generally warm year-round with a dry season from November to April/May, and a wet season from May to October.
Temperatures remain high and don't vary much: average ~27 °C and highs often ~30-35 °C.
Rain in the wet season tends to be heavy but often falls in short bursts.
Things to know:
- In wet season, even though rainfall is high, many downpours last only an hour or two.
- The dry season offers ideal conditions for beach holidays, with plenty of sunshine and calm seas.
- Social and cultural events often happen during the drier month
See our Best Time to Visit Vietnam guide for information on how weather influences costs, crowds and popular activities and attractions.
Vietnam offers year-round travel possibilities, but the style of holiday you want - beach escape, cultural city break, mountain trekking - will determine the best time. If you're seeking reliable sun and beach time, aim for the dry seasons in the central or southern regions. If you're drawn to lush landscapes, striking mountain vistas or cultural immersion, make the most of the shoulder-seasons (avoiding extreme heat and heavy rain).
Current Vietnam Weather
Vietnam Weather Forecast
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Vietnam Annual Average Climate
| Averages | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rainfall (mm) | 13.5 | 13.2 | 29.7 | 53.3 | 127.0 | 160.3 | 202.7 | 225.8 | 172.7 | 84.2 | 45.7 | 15.2 |
| Temp (°C) | 16.9 | 18.1 | 20.7 | 24.4 | 27.8 | 29.4 | 29.6 | 28.9 | 27.9 | 25.5 | 22.2 | 18.5 |
| Min Temp (°C) | 14.1 | 15.6 | 18.2 | 21.6 | 24.4 | 26.2 | 26.6 | 26.0 | 25.1 | 22.5 | 18.6 | 15.3 |
| Max Temp (°C) | 20.4 | 21.5 | 24.0 | 28.3 | 31.9 | 33.1 | 32.9 | 32.3 | 31.3 | 29.2 | 26.0 | 22.5 |
