vietnam places to visit in may

Vietnam in May Weather: Info & Best Time to Go (2024)

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Planning a Trip to Vietnam in May?

Traveling to Vietnam in May means you will be experiencing a month of transition from spring to summer across the country. I mentioned in my article ‘Vietnam in April’ that April/May are my favorite times to explore Vietnam (along with October/November). This is because on the whole, the weather in Vietnam in May is nice!

This guide will take you through the top destinations in Vietnam during May, providing insights into the weather, special holidays, and what to expect.

Let’s jump into exploring Vietnam in May.

Typical May Weather in Vietnam

Vietnam in May sees a noticeable increase in temperature and humidity, marking the official shift into summer. The north begins to warm up significantly, while the central and southern regions start experiencing the early stages of the rainy season.

The Vietnam weather in May is a transitional month with hot temperatures and increased rainfall, but it also offers green landscapes and many sunny days, making it a sweet time for travel.

North Vietnam Weather in May

In the north (Hanoi and surroundings), May brings hot temperatures with increased humidity. Rainfall begins to pick up, preparing the region for the upcoming wet season, yet there are still many sunny days perfect for exploring.

Central Vietnam in May

Central Vietnam, including Da Nang and Hoi An, experiences hot and dry weather in May, with occasional rainfall as the month progresses. It’s an excellent time for beach visits and outdoor activities before the more intense heat and rain of summer set in. I often jet down to Da Nang for a quick weekend getaway in May for some beach laying.

Southern Vietnam in May

Southern Vietnam sees a significant increase in both temperature and rainfall this month. The rainy season starts to make its presence known with short, heavy showers that can bring relief from the heat.

Rainfall in Vietnam in May

The rain in May varies significantly across Vietnam. The north and south see an increase in rain, preparing for the wet season, while central Vietnam stays mostly dry. Though it does start to experience occasional showers towards the end of the month.

Temperature in Vietnam in May

May turns up the heat across Vietnam:

• In the north , temperatures range from about 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F), with Hanoi experiencing some of its hottest days.
• Central Vietnam sees temperatures between 26°C and 33°C (79°F to 91°F), ideal for enjoying the coastal regions.
• The south experiences temperatures from 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F), with increased humidity making it feel hotter.

Air Quality in Vietnam in May

It may not be something that you would even think to check before going on vacation, but the air quality in Vietnam is worth looking into before you plan your trip.

When talking about the air quality, you will hear people refer to the AQI. That stands for Air Quality Index. There are color ranking and number rankings as well:

In general, the air gets worse in the winter months (December – March). Air is always the worst in Hanoi, no matter what time of year.

Like much of the year, the air quality in May can vary. 

In the northern regions, including Hanoi, the AQI tends to improve slightly compared to the cooler months, as increased temperatures and humidity help disperse pollutants. However, the air quality can still fluctuate from moderate to unhealthy for sensitive groups on certain days.

Central Vietnam usually has good air quality in May. The region’s dry conditions, combined with sea breezes, contribute to clearer skies and lower pollution levels.

In the southern parts, the beginning of the rainy season can bring about a mix of clear and polluted days. The rain helps to clear the air temporarily, but increased humidity and urban emissions can cause moderate air quality levels. 

It’s always a good idea to check current air quality indices (AQI) for specific locations you plan to visit in Vietnam, as conditions can change day by day (and oftentimes hour by hour!). 

Apps and Websites will tell you the air quality for the day- I recommend IQAir . 

Vietnam Holidays in May

Labor Day (May 1)

Recognized with gatherings and celebrations, though not as culturally significant as other holidays, it marks a day off for most Vietnamese.

What is Vietnamese Labor Day?

Labor Day, or International Workers’ Day, on May 1st is known as “Ngày Quốc tế Lao động.” It’s a day dedicated to honoring the labor force and the contributions workers have made to the country’s development and economy. 

How is Labor Day Celebrated?

It is a mostly subdued holiday without a ton of fanfare. Unlike Tet (Vietnamese New Year) or the Mid-Autumn Festival, Labor Day doesn’t involve elaborate public festivities or cultural performances. It’s more of a quiet holiday with a focus on rest and leisure.

There may be ceremonies and speeches by government officials, recognizing the achievements of the workforce and highlighting labor rights. 

Many Vietnamese take advantage of the day off to relax and spend time with family and friends. It’s common for people to use the long weekend (if Labor Day connects with the weekend) for short trips, visiting popular tourist destinations within the country.

What Does this mean for Travelers in Vietnam in May?

If your Vietnam trip falls on Labor Day, it’s a good idea to plan ahead as there can be increased demand for transport and accommodation. It is a popular travel time for Vietnamese. 

Government offices and some businesses may be closed, but tourist attractions and services typically remain open.

Buddha’s Birthday

This date varies each year but often falls in May. It’s celebrated with visits to temples, colorful processions, and ceremonial offerings.

What is Buddha’s Birthday?

Buddha’s Birthday, known in Vietnam as “Phật Đản,” is a significant and spiritual day celebrated across the country, usually falling on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month. This day commemorates the birth of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, which is a major religion in Vietnam.

How is Buddha’s Birthday Celebrated?

One of the main activities on Buddha’s Birthday is visiting pagodas and temples. Devotees go to these sacred places to pray, offer incense, and participate in rituals that pay homage to the Buddha. It’s a time for reflection, meditation, and seeking blessings for peace and happiness.

Buddhist temples across Vietnam hold special ceremonies that include the bathing of the Buddha statue, chanting, prayers, and sermons by monks.

In some cities, cultural events and parades are held to celebrate the occasion. These may include lion dances, lantern processions, and performances of traditional music.

What does this holiday mean for travelers?

If your Vietnam trip falls during Buddha’s Birthday, it’s an excellent opportunity to experience part of the culture. Visiting temples on this day offers a look into the practices of Vietnamese Buddhism. Just be mindful of the sacredness of the observance, dressing modestly and behaving respectfully when participating in or observing rituals and ceremonies.

10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in May

Wondering where to go in Vietnam in May?

While there is no definite “best places to visit in Vietnam in May”, you have plenty of places to choose from. Since the weather is pleasant across the whole of the country, really anywhere is great to go this month!

Below, you’ll find 10 of the best places to visit in Vietnam in May with some info on what to expect.

Hanoi in May 

May in Hanoi marks the transition from the pleasant springtime to the warmer, more humid days of early summer. Living in Hanoi, I know when May hits as it really does get significantly hotter than previous months! 

Weather and Temperature in Hanoi in May

The weather in Hanoi during May sees a significant rise in temperatures, with averages ranging from 24°C (75°F) at night to around 33°C (91°F) during the day. The heat begins to intensify, bringing warmer and more humid days.

Plain and simple. It is hot in Hanoi in May.

Rainfall in Hanoi in May

May brings an increase in rain to Hanoi, with the wet season starting to make its presence felt. Short, heavy showers are common, typically occurring in the afternoon or evening. These rains, are more frequent than in previous months.

What to Do in Hanoi in May

Despite the heat and humidity, May is still a good time to explore Hanoi! Early mornings are good for walking tours around the Old Quarter before the day heats up. The evenings are perfect for enjoying Hanoi’s street food scene or a rooftop café.

Ho Chi Minh City in May

May in Ho Chi Minh City means it is officially the rainy season. It is hot and wet and humid this month. But it could be an interesting time to visit to see what a Vietnamese city is like during the rains. 

Weather and Temperature in HCMC in May

The climate in May is hot and humid, with temperatures consistently high, ranging from 25°C (77°F) at night to 34°C (93°F) during the day. The warmth is palpable.

Rainfall in HCMC in May

The rainy season is in full swing by May meaning frequent and sometimes heavy afternoon showers. These rains can lead to cooler evenings and provide a refreshing break from the day’s heat, although they may cause temporary flooding in some areas of the city (particularly D2).

What to Do in HCMC in May

Despite the rain, May remains a busy month for exploration in HCMC. The mornings are typically clear and sunny, perfect for visiting landmarks. Then when an afternoon shower rolls in, head to cafes and restaurants that offer shelter and Air Con during the showers. The rain also brings a certain charm to the city’s evening life, with the streets glistening under the neon lights.

Da Nang in May

May in Da Nang starts the transition towards the hotter and more humid months. This period is a blend of sunny days and the beginning of seasonal rains.

Weather and Temperature in Da Nang in May

The weather in Da Nang during May is warm and increasingly humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) at night to around 33°C (91°F) during the day. The city experiences a significant amount of sunshine.

Rainfall in Da Nang in May

While May sees a gradual increase in rain, it typically comes in the form of late afternoon or evening showers that cool down the day’s heat. 

What to Do in Da Nang in May

The clear skies and warm weather in the early part of the day are perfect for exploring Da Nang’s famous beaches . The Marble Mountains offer a cooler option with their caves, pagodas, and panoramic views. Evening strolls along the Han River are made more pleasant by the cooler post-rain atmosphere. If you happen to be in Da Nang for a day, I’ve got a perfect one day itinerary for you to check out.

Hoi An in May

Since it is just down the road from Da Nang, May in Hoi An has the same weather as its neighbor. 

Weather and Temperature in Hoi An in May

The climate in May sees temperatures rising, making it one of the warmer months, with daytime averages hovering around 25°C (77°F) to 33°C (91°F). 

Rainfall in Hoi An in May

Rainfall starts to pick up in May, with short and sometimes heavy showers primarily occurring in the afternoon or evening. These rains bring a refreshing coolness.

What to Do in Hoi An in May

Early mornings are ideal for walking tours of the Ancient Town, before the day heats up. The weather is still good for visiting An Bang Beach. The occasional rains provide the perfect excuse to duck into one of Hoi An’s cafés or tailor shops.

Pro Tip: When it rains in Hoi An, I love to sit at Market Bar right in the center of the Old Town. Order a big drink (Happy Hour Gin Fishbowls are excellent) and just watch the rain fall over the city. 

Ha Long Bay in May

May in Ha Long Bay is a time of transition. Early May is still a good time for cruising before the heavier rains. 

Weather and Temperature in Ha Long Bay in May

The weather in May is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) at night to about 31°C (88°F) during the day. 

Rainfall in Ha Long Bay in May

Rainfall increases in May, as it is the start of the rainy season in the region. While there are still many clear and sunny days, you should expect occasional showers and even thunderstorms, typically  in the afternoon or evening.

What to Do in Ha Long Bay in May

May is still a good time to go on a cruise around Ha Long Bay. The cooler parts of the day are perfect for activities like kayaking, swimming, and hiking. You should be flexible with your plans though, as the weather can change quickly.

Phu Quoc in May 

May in Phu Quoc starts the early stages of the rainy season. Early May offers the last chance for clear, sunny beach days before the monsoon starts.

Weather and Temperature in Phu Quoc in May

The climate in May is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) at night to 32°C (90°F) during the day. This month, the island will have a mix of sunny spells and overcast days.

Rainfall in Phu Quoc in May

Rainfall begins to pick up in May, with short, sharp showers becoming more frequent, especially towards the end of the month. These downpours are often brief. You can definitely see the difference in this graph below on the rain in Phu Quoc from April to May!

What to Do in Phu Quoc in May

May’s weather conditions are perfect for exploring Phu Quoc’s beaches. The increase in rain brings a lushness to the island, making visits to the Phu Quoc National Park and waterfalls better than in the dry season. It’s also a good time for snorkeling and diving before the heavier monsoon rains set in.

Nha Trang in May 

The coastal city is still in its prime, with sunny beach days perfect for diving and water sports, before the rainy season fully kicks in.

Weather and Temperature in Nha Trang in May

The climate in May is warm and sunny, with temperatures comfortably sitting between 26°C (79°F) at night and 33°C (91°F) during the day. In the early part of the month there are mostly clear skies and sunny days. 

Rainfall in Nha Trang in May

May sees a gradual increase in rainfall as Nha Trang approaches its wetter season. However, compared to other regions, Nha Trang has a microclimate that generally results in lighter and less frequent showers. These usually happen late in the afternoon or at night.

What to Do in Nha Trang in May

With the warm and mostly dry weather in the early part of May, visiting beaches will likely be at the top of your list. The conditions are also perfect for water sports or boat tours.

Dalat in May 

May in Da Lat is a beautiful time of year, as the city enters the early phase of its rainy season. The climate remains temperate, a nice change from the heat happening this month in the rest of the country. 

Weather and Temperature in Da Lat in May

The weather in Da Lat during May is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) at night to about 24°C (75°F) during the day. The city’s highland climate means that even as the rest of Vietnam heats up, Da Lat remains comfortably cool.

Rainfall in Da Lat in May

With the start of the rainy season in May, Da Lat does get more rain, but it is typically short and heavy downpours in the later afternoon. This seasonal rain adds to the natural beauty, making its gardens, forests, and waterfalls particularly impressive during this time.

What to Do in Da Lat in May

May’s cooler temperatures mean exploring the outdoors is particularly enjoyable. Trekking to the many waterfalls, visiting flower gardens are typically high on the list of things to do in Da Lat in May.  

Sapa in May

May in Sapa brings in the early signs of summer with the beginning of the rice planting season. The landscape transforms with each day as the various stages of growth is happening in the rice terraces. 

Weather and Temperature in Sapa in May

The climate in Sapa during May starts to warm up, with daytime temperatures averaging between 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The nights remain cool. The weather is generally pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing in and around Sapa.

Rainfall in Sapa in May

May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Sapa, with increased chances of showers, especially in the afternoons and evenings. While the rain may bring a bit of unpredictability to travel plans, it also contributes to the green-ness of Sapa’s landscapes and the misty beauty that Sapa is known for.

What to Do in Sapa in May

May is a good time to trek through Sapa’s terraced rice fields. The cooler mornings and evenings are perfect for exploring Sapa’s markets. If you’re looking for a harder challenge, hiking up Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, means clearer paths before the heavier rains set in.

May in Ha Giang

May in Ha Giang is awesome! The weather is pleasant, the rains haven’t come yet.

Weather and Temperature in Ha Giang in May

The weather in Ha Giang during May is warm and comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) at night to 28°C (82°F) during the day. The weather is good for outdoor activities, and biking the Ha Giang Loop. 

Rainfall in Ha Giang in May

May sees the beginning of the rainy season in Ha Giang, with occasional showers that tend to increase in frequency towards the end of the month. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam in May (FAQs)

Is May a good time to visit Vietnam?

YES – especially for those who enjoy warmer weather and want to see Vietnam’s landscapes in their lush, early rainy season state. It’s a great time for beach holidays in central Vietnam before the heavier rains.

What are the best places to visit in Vietnam in May?

Destinations like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Phu Quoc are excellent in May for their beach and cultural experiences. Dalat offers a cooler climate for those looking to escape the heat.

What should I pack for a trip to Vietnam in May?

Light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for the daytime heat, with a light jacket for cooler evenings in the highlands. Waterproof gear is probably a good idea for the south and north, anticipating the rainy season. Though, don’t worry you can get everything you need once you get to Vietnam.

Are there any special festivals or events in Vietnam in May?

YES — Labor Day and Buddha’s Birthday are the main holidays in May , offering cultural experiences, especially at Buddhist temples across the country.

How does the rainy season affect travel plans in Vietnam in May?

The early rainy season in the south and parts of the north means occasional heavy showers, usually in the afternoon. It rarely disrupts travel plans significantly but brings cooler evenings.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Vietnam in May

As I said at the beginning, May is one of my favorite times to travel around Vietnam. Exploring Vietnam in May, you’ll find warm weather and some rainy days. Despite rising temperatures and the start of the rainy season in some areas, May is a good choice for months to travel to Vietnam. 

What’s the Best Place to Visit in Vietnam in May?

For a May trip, I would say Hoi An and Da Nang would be excellent choices. You’ll get culture and history, beaches, and active adventures outdoors. Plus the weather is still dry and sunny most days.

If Vietnam in May isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might not want to visit Vietnam in May after all. If so, check out the articles linked below about visiting Vietnam during other months of the year.

• Vietnam in January
• Vietnam in February
• Vietnam in March
• Vietnam in April
• Vietnam in June
• Vietnam in July
• Vietnam in August
• Vietnam in September
• Vietnam in October
• Vietnam in November
• Vietnam in December

Katie McGrain is a Vietnam Trip Planning Expert. She has lived in Hanoi, Vietnam since 2017, and has explored just about every corner of this country. She provides female travelers to Vietnam with resources, ideas, and guides on where to go and what to do. Her on the ground research, planning and advising helps women have a safe, memorable and authentic trip to Vietnam.

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• Vietnam In May: A Travel Experience You’ll Cherish For A Lifetime

Holidays are the ideal necessities of one’s life as they help you maintain a newer energy by coming out of the monotonous lifestyle. Holidaying is an ardent need that everyone deserves. It is likely to be peaceful and as a source of gathering further energy to continue with our daily routine. So, if you are planning to go on a vacation to Vietnam in May , let us tell you it is a picturesque and enormous travel destination. You have much to explore in this Asian tourism hub.

Weather In Vietnam In May

The Weather in Vietnam in May seems to be the most comfy as compared to other months of the year. It’s just the start of summer in the northern part of Vietnam that sees only a slight rise in temperature level to about 32 degrees Celsius, therefore, you can enjoy the seething climatic conditions.

Meanwhile, the central part of Vietnam still maintains dry season during the May month. However, the South of Vietnam starts entering into the rainy season and the spots more downpours. But they happen very quickly and do an outstanding job in dropping the daytime heat.

Must Read: 52 Stunning Places To Visit In Vietnam For A Natural And Historic Retreat!

4 Places To Visit In Vietnam In May

There are numerous places to visit in Vietnam . None should be skipped if you are travelling in May month. Just have a look at them why a visit to these places is important.

1. Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai

Image Source

Located nearly 300 kilometres in the mountainous northeastern region of Vietnam, Mu Cang Chai in May is an amazing place to visit and explore the uniqueness of this region. If you are into nature and photography, as well as concerned in the hill-tribe culture, you should never miss out on Mu Cang Chai. It will offer you lots of such exclusively themed avenues for your assessment.

Suggested Read: Snorkelling In Vietnam: Witness The Enchanting Underwater Life At Its Best In These Spots!

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2. Pu Luong Thanh Hoa

Pu Luong is the best place to visit in Vietnam in May . This place provides you with a refreshing escape from the crowds with its splendid mountain ranges, scenic rivers, and waterfalls that bring you close to natures’ bounty. It also offers you a great opportunity to have an insight into the long-standing agriculture of Vietnam during this month when the agriculture activities are in the full swing.

Suggested Read: Your Guide To Scuba Diving In Vietnam: Find The Best Spots, Ideal Time, And Much More

3. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is the most famous seaside town in Vietnam. It provides a wonderful scene and outstanding services to travellers. What a real peaceful place for days without any complain. This is what keeps you hooked during your May trip.

Things to Do: Island hopping, scuba diving, flyboarding, and water skiing. Food to Eat: Fresh seafood, barbecued pork rolled in rice paper, and bird’s nest soup.

Suggested Read: Meenakshi Maruwada’s 7 Days In Vietnam: Am Experience Not To Be Missed

4. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is situated at the edge of the Red River Delta, Trang An and is a rare place where long-standing rice cultivation still maintains. Travel about only two hours by car from Hanoi to feel the serene beauty of the region. It is an excellent place where the happy green paddies turn yellow gradually.

Suggested Read: 14 Things To Do In Hue Which Make This Town In Vietnam

Things To Do In Vietnam In May

Counting on the things to do in Vietnam in May , you’ll find many. Simply explore them all and narrow down the activities as all are not possible in one go. Some of the major ones are listed below:

1. Visiting Imperial

As a place of the former political centre of the country for 13 continuous centuries, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is still one of the most popular Vietnam tourist spots where travellers from around the world plan a visit. It remains a must-visit place in the itineraries. A World Heritage Site since 2010, this place is a magnificent vintage fortress which reflects the leftovers of the Vietnamese military power.

Opening Hours: 8 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 AM to 5 PM. Entry Fee: INR 90.6/-.

Suggested Read: Try Hiking In Vietnam For A Once In A Lifetime Kind Of Experience

2. Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum 

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is a piece of remarkable marble construction, built with the resources composed from all over the country. This epic marble architecture is quite well-known. Therefore, visiting this place remains one of the best things to do in Vietnam during a trip. Missing it means you rather didn’t explore Vietnam.

Opening Hours: 8 AM to 11 AM; Saturday to Thursday. Entry Fee: INR 30.66/-.

Suggested Read: Hanoi In Winter: Top 13 Things To Do In This Vietnamese Capital During Winter!

3. Hoan Kiem Lake And Ngoc Son

If you are travelling with your loved ones and want to spend a day there with them in fun and laughter, this is the place where you should head towards. The lake is also famous as a Turtle Lake and is well-known for the natural beauty around.

Entry Fee: INR 61.31/- per person.

4. Vietnam Military History Museum

This history museum has numerous things on display that recaps the visitors of the Vietnam War. By planning a visit here, you are going to learn many things as if the leaflets of history open before you. Therefore, a visit here remains an educating and learning experience.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Entry Fee: INR 90.6/-.

Further Read: Vietnam Nightlife Guide: 15 Places For Experiencing The Best Of Nightclubs, Shopping & More

If you are keen and interested in visiting Vietnam in May , it is time to pack your bags and plan your holiday right away. Click the selfies, soak yourself in the sun, and gather all the memories.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Vietnam In May: An Experience For The Lifetime

Have questions in mind to ask the experts? Some of them are listed below. Just have a look!

May a good time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to travel to Vietnam is March and April for warm and dry weather or go in October and November for cooler climes and clear days. May is also a reasonably good month.

What are the best things to see in Vietnam in May?

The best things to see in Vietnam in May includes: 1. Cruise Halong Bay 2. Explore the Phong Nha Caves 3. Dine on Vietnamese Cuisine 4. Trekking in Sapa

What is the weather like in Vietnam in May?

On the coast, the weather is usually warm and sunny while in the central regions, it is somewhat wet but the northern side experiences more rain.

Which are the best places to visit in Vietnam in May?

The best places to visit Vietnam in May includes the following: 1. Hanoi 2. SaPa 3. Mui Ne 4. Hoi An 5. Mekong Delta

How many days do you need to visit Vietnam?

Two weeks are enough to spend in Vietnam to enjoy the main sights. But if you also want to go more off the beaten path, three weeks would be perfect.

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Asif Anwar Alig is Co-Founder cum Editor-in-Chief at www.seocontentindia.in. He formerly served as an Executive Producer at ETV; Editorial Coordinator at Management Development Institute, Gurgaon, India; Media Specialist at Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Saudi Arabia; and Assistant Professor in the Saudi Ministry of Education for two decades.

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Vietnam Weather and Places to Visit in May

Despite the weather complexity, May remains a good time to visit Vietnam. As a transitional month between spring and summer, you will see the good deal of rainfall and high temperatures in May throughout the country. Heading into the hot and sticky summer, the temperatures in Hanoi and North Vietnam are rising with more rain. However, it still remains relatively temperature and perfect for active adventures. With hot & sunny days, the Central coast keeps its stands to be the place this month, while the South slowly begins to slip towards its wet season. Let’s take a look at the weather and the places to visit in Vietnam in May .

Table of Contents

1.1 Northern Vietnam

1.2 central vietnam, 1.3 southern vietnam, 2. places to go in vietnam in may & useful tips., 3.1 international labor day (nationwide)., 3.2 dien bien phu victory day (7 may)..

•  3.3 Liberation Day of Hai Phong (13 May) & Hoa Phuong Do Festival (Red Flamboyant Festival).

3.4 President Ho Chi Minh’s birthday celebration (19 May).

3.5 vesak – celebrating buddha’s birthday., 3.6 doan ngo festival., 1. weather by region in may..

Popular destinations: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Cat Ba, Sapa, Ha Giang, Mu Cang Chai, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, etc.

May in northern Vietnam offers a delightful transition into summer, with temperatures ranging comfortably between 24 and 36 degrees Celsius. This makes it a fantastic time to explore this region, along with central Vietnam. However, be aware of occasional weather changes that could impact your itinerary. Storms and tropical depressions can sometimes disrupt travel, even causing cancellations for boat trips in Ha Long Bay. The mountain regions such as Mu Cang Chai, Sapa remains good places with pleasant weather as hill tribal minorities are busy to start new rice season on their terraces, while Ha Giang to the east receives more rain. It is also great to visit Halong Bay – UNESCO Heritage site during this time.

Popular destinations: Hoian, Danang, Hue, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Dalat, etc.

Central Vietnam basks in some of its finest weather in May. Expect sunshine to be the dominant feature, with little rain to interrupt your plans. Temperatures soar, reaching highs in the upper 20s to even 38 degrees Celsius (upper 80s to 100 degrees Fahrenheit). This hot and dry weather makes May ideal for hitting the beaches of Da Nang, Hoi An, or Nha Trang. The long stretches of sunshine are perfect for diving, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the rays. However, be prepared for the heat and pack accordingly – think light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.

Popular destinations: Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Mekong Delta, Long Hai & Ho Tram, Con Dao & Phu Quoc, etc.

South Vietnam in May transitions towards the rainy season, but it’s a gentle shift. Here’s what to expect:

• Temperature : Expect hot and humid days with highs ranging from 28 to 36 degrees Celsius (82 to 97 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Rainfall: While the rainy season technically starts in May, the rain usually comes in short, afternoon bursts. You’ll still enjoy plenty of sunshine.
• Humidity: Humidity levels hover between 60-70%, making it feel even warmer.

Overall, May is still a good time to visit South Vietnam. The occasional rain showers can be a welcome break from the heat and shouldn’t significantly disrupt your travel plans.

With an average temperature of around 20-30°C, Mu Cang Chai and Sapa region are still predominantly dry which fit trekking activities. Especially, the terraced rice fields in North Vietnam are at one of their most beautiful periods with lushly green and brilliant yellow-gold of a new rice crop, twinkling in May as the “falling water season” with cascades of water running from terrace to terrace.

Most well-known for its April-May “butterfly season,” Cuc Phuong National Park will be a choice for those who are wildlife lovers and travelers seeking active adventure.

Being shielded by the Truong Son mountain range, the Central Vietnam witnesses much less rain in May than other parts of the country. This is still a great month for time on its beaches, for example: the white sandy beaches of Nha Trang ; relatively tranquil and warm water in Quy Nhon ; or head to Lang Co Bay for a little more seclusion. In addition, a combination between beach time with cultural exploration in Hue and Hoian – two UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be fantastic.

The South is typified by hot, humid weather and plenty of rainfall, but it is still fortune with slightly cooler temperature than previous months. So, visiting Ho Chi Minh City on the main sites and air-conditioned museums is still good.

The island in South – Con Dao is still in favorable diving conditions during this month. Don’t miss it.

Edging into the hot wet season with the increase of rain throughout the month and the country, packing rain gear and insect repellent along with your summer clothing. It is also necessary to take a sunhat, sunglasses or a parasol to protect yourself from the ultraviolet ray. A couple of warm layers for early morning or late night in mountainous areas or the Central Highlands should be in your package.

At the beginning of the month (during April 30-May 2 holiday), city-folk head out of town for a mini vacation which creates busy time, especially for beach break. Later on, you can still enjoy the best beaches in glorious sunshine but without the crowds as earlier month. Another benefit May bring, it is that prices of tours and accommodations drop or become easier to negotiate in May.

3. May Events

Originated from the struggle movement of American workers, 1/5 became the anniversary and action day of the international worker movement and of the workers worldwide. Today, the International Labor Day 1/5 has become the festival of the working people of Vietnam which shows the solidarity and friendship with the working class and working people around the world.

Dien Bien Phu Victory Day is observed in Vietnam on May 7. It marks the victory of Vietnam over French forces in 1954, which influenced the negotiations over the future of Indochina during the Geneva Conference.

  3.3 Liberation Day of Hai Phong (13 May) & Hoa Phuong Do Festival (Red Flamboyant Festival).

Hai Phong is home to Cat Ba National Park, Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay where is as beautiful as Halong Bay but less touristic.

13 May 1955 was Liberation Day of Hai Phong when the images of French soldiers finally withdrawing from the North of Vietnam at Ben Nghien (Do Son District, Hai Phong) and this city were completely liberated.

Also in May, the red flamboyant – Hai Phong’s symbol, blooms in the whole city, so the Hoa Phuong Do Festival will be taken place in this third largest city of Vietnam to celebrate the anniversary of liberation day. The festival will also include a carnival parade and art performances by both domestic and foreign troupes. In addition, a low-range display of fireworks is organized during the gala night at the opening ceremony.

Every year on May 19, all Vietnamese people will celebrate the birthday of the great father and leader of Vietnam – President Ho Chi Minh  (19/5/1890) with a wide range of activities and campaigns. Our hearts will be towards the late President in the most respectful and grateful manner. On this anniversary, another ceremony is also held in Nghe An – the hometown of late President Ho Chi Minh.

Vesak is the festival commemorating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death. This holy day is annually celebrated in the 15 th day of the 4 th lunar calendar (April or May – varying by year) by buddhists around the world. In Vietnam, many festivals are held around this day to make special efforts for looking back ourselves and bringing happiness to everyone.

Also known as Tet Sau Bo (sau bo = worms, pests), Doan Ngo Festival is annually celebrated on the 5 th day of the 5 th lunar month (May or June – varying by year). This is one the most essential holidays along with traditional Tet holiday and Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam. On this day, families prepare special kinds of food and unique ceremonies while farmers remove insects and pests from crops and greens. In spite of common tradition, the diversity in celebration approach is well-reflected within each region of Vietnam, such as Festival of Delicious Fruit celebrated in Cho Lach (Lach Market), Ben Tre Province or Festival of Southern Fruit celebrated in Suoi Tien Amusement Park, Ho Chi Minh City.

Please check information about Vietnam weather in other months of year at here:

• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-january/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-february/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/weather-of-march-in-vietnam/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-april/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-june/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-july/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-august/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-september/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-october/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-november/
• https://vietnamtravel.com/vietnam-weather-in-december/

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Vietnam in May - Weather & Best places to visit

Here are 4 reasons why you should consider traveling to vietnam in may.

• Ideal weather: May marks the beginning of the summer season in Vietnam, bringing with it warm and sunny days with occasional showers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
• Festivals and events: May hosts several exciting festivals and events across the country, such as the Hue Festival, Buddha’s Birthday, and Ho Chi Minh’s Birthday, offering visitors a chance to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Vietnam.
• Less crowded: Compared to the peak season, May is a relatively quieter month, meaning you can explore the popular destinations with fewer crowds and at more affordable prices.
• Beautiful scenery: May is an excellent time to witness the stunning natural beauty of Vietnam, with lush greenery, blooming flowers, and crystal-clear waters, especially in places like Halong Bay, Sapa, and Ninh Binh.

A quick overview

Vietnam weather in may.

May is generally a good month to visit Vietnam, as the country enters the transitional period between the dry and rainy seasons. You can expect warm temperatures and a mix of both sunshine and occasional rain showers. However, it’s important to note that weather conditions vary across the three regions of northern, central, and southern Vietnam.

In  northern Vietnam , including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh, May experiences average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). The region begins to see increased rainfall, but sunny days are still prevalent. It is a great time to explore the lush landscapes, visit historical sites, and immerse in the cultural charm of the region.

Central Vietnam , encompassing cities like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue, starts to transition into its dry season in May. The average temperatures range from 26°C to 33°C (79°F to 91°F). There is less and less rainfall and many sunny days for exploration. As for the beaches, May is the start of the beach season and a very good time to visit.

Southern Vietnam , including Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island, experiences hot and humid weather in May, with average temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F). The region enters its rainy season with increased rainfall, but there are still plenty of sunny intervals. It is a good time to explore the bustling city life, take boat tours in the Mekong Delta, and indulge in the vibrant street food scene. While the beaches might see some rain, there are still opportunities for relaxation and water activities.

Overall, May offers a mix of sunshine and occasional rain showers across Vietnam. It is a suitable time to explore the diverse attractions, engage in cultural experiences, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Just be prepared for some rainfall, especially in northern and southern regions, and check weather forecasts for the best beach days.

Events in May in Vietnam

Here are some of the major events and festivals that take place in Vietnam in May:

• International Labor Day (May 1st): This national holiday celebrates the achievements of workers in Vietnam. Visitors can see parades and cultural performances in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Dien Bien Phu Victory Day (May 7th): This national holiday celebrates the victory of the Vietnamese over French colonial forces at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. Visitors can see parades and cultural performances in Dien Bien Phu City.
• Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday): This holiday is celebrated by Vietnamese Buddhists on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month, which usually falls in May. Visitors can see colorful processions, light candles and incense, and enjoy vegetarian food.
• Hue Traditional Craft Festival: This biennial festival takes place in the former imperial city of Hue, and showcases the city’s traditional crafts, such as embroidery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors can see demonstrations, attend workshops, and purchase handmade products.
• Hoi An Lantern Festival: This monthly festival takes place in the historic town of Hoi An on the 14th day of the lunar month. Visitors can see the town’s streets lit up by colorful lanterns, and participate in traditional games and activities.

Best places to visit in Vietnam in May

May is a good month to visit Vietnam as it is not too hot and the rainy season hasn’t started yet in many parts of the country. Here are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam in May:

• Hanoi: The capital city of Vietnam is a great place to explore in May. The temperature is pleasant, and there are many cultural and historical sites to visit.
• Halong Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay is famous for its limestone karsts, caves, and crystal-clear waters. May is a good time to visit as the weather is warm, and you can avoid the crowds.
• Sapa: Located in the northern mountains of Vietnam, Sapa is a beautiful town known for its rice terraces, ethnic minorities, and trekking routes. May is an excellent time to visit as the rice paddies are in full bloom.
• Hue: Located in central Vietnam, Hue was once the imperial capital of the country. The city is famous for its historical sites, such as the Imperial City, and its cuisine. May is a good time to visit as the weather is pleasant.
• Hoi An: This charming town in central Vietnam is famous for its ancient architecture, lanterns, and tailors. May is a good time to visit as the weather is dry, and you can avoid the crowds of the high season.

Tips for traveling in May

• Bring lightweight, breathable clothing and insect repellent for the warmer temperatures and increased humidity.
• Take advantage of the fruit season and indulge in a variety of tropical fruits available at local markets.
• Explore the picturesque landscapes and vibrant marine life through snorkeling and diving in destinations like Nha Trang and Phu Quoc.

May per destination

• Mui Ne in May
• Da Nang in May
• Nha Trang in May
• Dalat in May
• South Vietnam in May
• Central Vietnam in May
• North Vietnam in May
• Mai Chau in May
• Con Dao in May
• Phu Quoc in May
• Ho Chi Minh City in May
• Ban Gioc Waterfall in May
• Ha Giang in May
• Ninh Binh in May
• Hoi An in May
• Halong Bay in May
• Sapa in May
• Hanoi in May

FAQ about traveling in May

Is the weather in may good for traveling in vietnam.

he weather in May can be a great time to travel to some parts of Vietnam, depending on your preferences. The temperatures are usually warm but not too hot, and there is relatively low rainfall in many areas. The north and central regions can be pleasant with comfortable temperatures, although the humidity can still be high. The south tends to be warmer with higher humidity, but it is also the dry season.

How busy are the tourist areas during May in Vietnam?

May is considered shoulder season in Vietnam, so the tourist areas may not be as busy as they are during the peak season. However, it can still be relatively busy, especially in popular destinations such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, and Hoi An. It’s important to note that May falls within the school holiday period for many countries, so there may be an increase in family travelers during this time. Overall, the crowds may not be as intense as during the high season, but it’s still a good idea to book accommodations and tours in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.

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Vietnam In May: Travel Tips, Weather & Places To Visit

• March 7, 2023
• ftripvietnam

While there is almost never a bad time to visit Vietnam, May is one of the best time to visit Vietnam for your trip. Outside of peak season, the country is less crowded. The weather is manageable with proper planning and preparations. There are plenty of things to see and do as always with Vietnam in May .

Vietnam weather in May

As Vietnam enters “the lusty month of May”, traveling around the country can be a confusing and unpredictable experience in combating seasonal change. In the North, the weather in Vietnam will get visited by heat waves, hot weather, and plenty of sunshine that doesn’t scorch. The South enters the humid and wet season. That being said, Southern rain comes and goes before you can enjoy or begrudge it. And you won’t sweat as much as you would in Northern and Central Vietnam. See below for what you might expect when it comes to May weather.

You can refer more to Vietnam Holiday Packages with Best Vietnam Tour Packages 17 days , 2 week Vietnam itinerary , Vietnam 12 day itinerary , 9 days in Vietnam itinerary , 3 week Vietnam itinerary and Vietnam 1 week itinerary before taking a trip with Vietnam travel guide .

Crowds & Costs

Be aware of the public holidays in May: Reunification Day (April 30) and International Labor Day (May 1). It’s often a long weekend for the Vietnamese, who will take the opportunity to travel. So your destinations might be crowded. Other than that, you can take advantage of attractive deals of up to 30% off for resorts and other points of interest around the country, as businesses are keen to get more visitors this season. Remember to book and purchase any ticket at least a month in advance!

13 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City | Vietnam 2023

Where to go in Vietnam in May

May falls into the dry season for this land that “leans against the mountain to gaze upon the sea”. Just before the tourist season, spring transitions into summer. The clear blue waters of Qui Nhon are extra lovely, and the air is comfortably warm. The best time to go to the beach is before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Trung Luong Picnic Tourism Area also offers the opportunity to camp among pristine nature. The Poetic Garden of Han Mac Tu offers a vantage viewpoint of Quy Nhon city from the grave of one of Vietnam’s greatest poets. After swimming, you can feast on delicacies freshly caught and prepared: shrimp pancakes, jellyfish noodles, crab hotpot, steamed lobsters, and more. 

Best Time To Visit North Vietnam : Weather And Remarkable Locations?

Arrive in May and you will have spared yourself the uncomfortable heat of the summer – the Goldilocks moment of weather when everything is just right. You can hike, trek, or bicycle through the Best Places To Visit In Vietnam with Pu Luong Nature Reserve and see how ethnic minorities live in harmony with nature. Vietnam in May is also the end of the rice harvest season, so if you’re lucky, you can still see the farmers take the golden coat off of the scenery.

However, if you’re interested in seeing more of the rice paddies, a boat ride down the Ngo Dong river in Ninh Binh will set you right with floating paddies on either side of the stream. Another best things to do in Ninh Binh you must see is to the Tam Coc caves, majestic karst formations carved by the hands of Nature using water and time. Their neighbors are Bich Dong pagoda and Bich Dong cave, known as “the second-most beautiful cave under Southern skies”. (The honor of being the most beautiful goes to Huong Tich cave in Hanoi instead.) While you’re in Ninh Binh, don’t forget to sample burnt rice (a sort of savory Rice Krispies treat) and goat meat.

In addition to its stunning mountains and waters, the Trang An Landscape Complex- A Unesco World Heritage Site is also home to Hoa Lu, an ancient capital of Vietnam, established by the Dinh Dynasty as the first feudal center of power. A mere 42 years later, it was left behind when Emperor Ly Thai To made the monumental decision to move the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi), but humans have occupied it ever since the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, and Hoa Lu saw much historical upheaval. Today, visitors travel to Trang An to marvel at the preserved and restored glory of a royal residence as much as they do its nature, the beauty of man’s creations being embraced by the beauty of nature’s treasures.

What to do in Vietnam in May 

You can cover the whole country in May, provided you’re well-prepared for what the weather might have in store. See the Imperial Citadels in Hanoi and Hue, cruise the waters of Ha Long Bay. Travel down the Mekong River to explore “the granary of Vietnam”. Do the best things to do in SaPa like chase clouds in the mountains and amidst rhododendron flowers. You can even be trekking through tribal villages in Sapa if you are interested in Sapa and Y Ty, Lao Cai – The Scenic & Tribal loop 3 days 2 nights ,… And much, much more.

May Events & Holiday

Nghe an: uncle ho’s birthday – may 19.

Vietnam remains grateful to its latest national hero, Ho Chi Minh (Uncle Ho). Because of local beliefs in ancestor worship, every province and city has multiple shrines to him (essentially considering him an honorary uncle of every Vietnamese family). He was born in Kim Lien village, Nam Dan district, Nghe An province. Every year, the province honors its famous son with various activities: art competitions, performances and festivals of traditional theatre and music, ao dai fashion shows with lotus motifs (the village’s name means “Golden Lotus”), and more.

15 Best Things To Do In Da Nang – Vietnam (2023)

Hoa Binh: Praying for rain Festival (the 4th lunar month)

On nights when the moon has a red or yellow halo, the Thai people of Hoa Binh organize ceremonies to pray for rain, as the halo is an omen of droughts that threaten their crops and livelihood. Young people form groups that go from house to house.

Beginning with the family with the oldest woman in the village. They will then invite the elder to come out in her fineries and sing together to ask the skies for water. She will emerge with a basin full of water and splash the procession with it. In the next houses, elders merely give the procession some sticky rice and salt.

Once the visits are finished, the procession returns to its starting point (the common house). They will light torches, go down to the river, and splash each other with the blessed water, and no one goes home until they’re soaked and freezing. The ceremony is repeated if the droughts begin or continue.

A Detailed Guide To Traveling In Vietnam During Tet Holiday

Quang Binh: Praying for a good season Festival (14th-16th of the 4th lunar month)

The people of Bao Ninh village in Quang Binh also pray for a good season. But their entreaties are directed at the whale spirit who saved their fishermen amid a storm long ago, and two fishermen, father and son, worshipped after their deaths. Much like most Vietnamese traditional holidays, the event consists of two parts: ritual and celebration. Firstly, Lord Whale’s bones are paraded from the village to the communal building. Two mediums will channel the spirits to give sage advice. Then comes the celebration, in which women sing and mock-row on dry land to resemble rowboat crews, while the men dance. They wish for calm seas, fruitful fishing trips, and eternal abundance and health for the village.

Mid-Autumn Festival – The Most Famous Festival In Vietnam

Vietnam in each month

Learn about detailed weather information for each area in Vietnam for 12 months & seasonal tourist destinations.

Frequently asked questions about Vietnam in May (FAQs)

Is may a good time to visit vietnam.

May will have heat waves in the North and the South that seems cooler. Please avoid public holidays in May: April 30 and May 1 because this is a holiday time and Vietnamese people will take advantage to travel at this time. Outside of peak season, the country is less crowded; the weather is manageable with proper planning and preparations, and there are plenty of things to see and do as always. 

What are the best things to see in May?

You can see the Imperial Citadels in Hanoi and Hue, cruise the waters of Ha Long Bay, travel down the Mekong River to explore “the granary of Vietnam”, chase clouds in the mountains of Sapa amidst rhododendron flowers,… You can travel to cover the whole country in May if you want to go more.

Being in Vietnam in May is very much a case of “right place, right time”. The country will not fail in entertaining you and giving you experiences you can treasure for the rest of your life.

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Vietnam in May: Weather and Event Guide

What weather to expect in May, what to do, what's on in Vietnam in May?

• 1. Overview
• 2. Events in May
• 3. What to expect
• 4. Best destinations to travel

May is the time when Vietnam changes its color from spring to summer. Notably, in May, the intersection of many mixed weather flows occur when the Northern region shows signs of heat waves, hot and grizzle weather; whereas the South gradually enters the wet and humid season. However, the confusing climate pattern does not affect the least of anyone’s travel plan. In fact, May is considered one of the few best months for all of Vietnam.

Temperature & Humidity

In the North, May bids goodbye to the humid and misty month of April. The weather is hot but comfortable. The temperature in Hanoi ranges between 24° C and 32 °C and a balmy humidity of 75%. With lots of sunshine without the scorching heat, May is the best time to visit Hanoi and its famous surrounding destinations such as Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Ninh Binh and so forth.

Temperature and humidity rise as you move southward. In Hoi An, the average humidity is around 80%, a decent number compared with the whooping 90% one would experience in the period November - January. The low rainfall coupled with long hours of sunshine promise a great trip to the coastal city of Danang, Nha Trang and Quy Nhon.

If you consider a trip in the southern part of Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh City or Mekong Delta, you cannot find a better time of the year than early-mid May. With a temperature range in the mid-30s degrees Celsius, May is on steady pace with April and June and you can tell little difference between these months. What’s best about May in the South of Vietnam is the consistently low humidity of 60-70%: you won’t sweat as much as in the North and Central areas, the rain comes and goes in a flash.

That all says May is a perfect time to visit Vietnam, weather-wise, not to mention lower tourism traffic and excellent travel deals.

Events in May

Though May is no longer in the festive period of the year, you can still get to witness some of the most authentic cultural events in Vietnam.

Hoa Binh: Rain praying festival - April in lunar calendar

This is one of the most important festivals for Muong villagers living in Mai Chau, Hoa Binh. The festival is held to pray for favorable weather as farmers sow their first cereal seeds for the season and to express their wish for a successful crop. Villagers will push their stick to the sky, symbolizing the poking and waking up of the Rain God to avoid drought.

Vinh Phuc: buffalo fighting festival - April 21 in lunar calendar

Buffalo fighting festival celebrates a good harvest. This is one of oldest Vietnamese cultural festivals, starting from as early as 2 B.C. The buffalo fighting is now seen as a great event where the whole community gets together and celebrates their heritage.

Quang Binh: Fishing festival - April 14 in lunar calendar

The fishing festival is to celebrate Quang Binh fishermen's work and daily life. People attending the festivals also come and pray for favorable weather and fishermen can return with great catch.

Nghe An: Uncle Ho birthday - May 19

The birthday of the national hero Ho Chi Minh, which falls on May 19th, receives one of the biggest nationwide celebrations. Flowers and banners color streets from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City but Nghe An, Uncle Ho’s birthplace, is probably the most meaningful place to celebrate the event. Locals often visit Kim Lien village and offer incense and pay tribute to Uncle Ho, with life stories and his own artworks being told and retold to the younger generation, reminding the whole country of his great contribution to Vietnam’s anticolonialism struggle as well as arts and culture.

What to expect

• International Labor Day (30/4 – 1/5) is an essential long holiday of Vietnam. If you plan to visit Vietnam during this time, be prepared for crowded beaches and airports.
• It is also advisable that tourists book hotels and resorts at least 1 month in advance in case of overbooking.
• Some central coastal resorts like Danang, Hoi An and Nha Trang offer great promotions from 5th May onward as tourism thins out. Plan your trip well and you can save as much as 30% you would otherwise pay in April.

Best destinations to travel

Since May is generally an ideal time to include any Vietnam’s destination on the agenda, you can almost decide at your free will. However since the number of tourists to major destinations dwindle right after the holiday, with amazing deals by hotels, resorts and cruises, it’s optimal to plan trips to places you would otherwise not be able to afford during peak season.

A Cruise Trip To Halong Bay

Halong Bay is consistently ranked on global wanderlusts’ travel list. The bay is best seen on a cruise trip, one that takes you around the thousands of islets and grottos and docks at major one such as Titov Island and Surprise Cave, where you can step inside to admire the beauty of nature.  Such a trip in November would cost $500++ while the weather is not always at its best for swimming or kayaking, while May would see the price halved and crystal clear sky for just any activity you want to take. If time and budget allow, you should consider taking a 3 day trip, with an extra day on Cat Ba island to fully appreciate the unique landscape in this part of Vietnam.

A relaxing stay in Hoi An

Hoi An is normally packed between June and September, and again November to January, with the continuous flock of domestic and international tourists. Yet it is rather deserted in May, when the weather is actually at its best. The glorious sunshine, little rain and well-spaced old quarter all make great reasons for you to plan a trip.

Beach break in Nha Trang

Beaches in Vietnam are generally full during the summer, as urban dwellers rush to all coastal areas from the north to the south for a family get together. The good news is that this happens mainly during the weekend. If you want to enjoy a great beach escape, look no further than Nha Trang and try to schedule your trip during weekdays, when you will have the white sand beaches to yourself. It does not get rainy in Nha Trang until the last few days in May, and the heat is just about right to feel the tropical warmth without giving you severe sunburns. There are also abundant travel deals as hotels and resorts try to balance their occupancy rate for the whole month: rest assure you will save big on your May visit.

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Visiting Vietnam in May: Best Places to Go & Travel Tips

What You’ll Find in this Blog

May is the in-between month between spring and summer in Vietnam, which could be really hot and humid in the area. But visiting Vietnam in May could be a perfect time for those who fall in love with the ripe rice season and charming beaches. Let’s begin the journey with Indochina Voyages to explore the best places to visit in Vietnam in May from North to South!

How is the weather in Vietnam in May?

In May, Vietnam experiences warm and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) across the country. It’s important to note that May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, so you can expect occasional showers and increased humidity in this region. To make the most of your trip, it’s advisable to explore the northern and central parts of Vietnam, which offer pleasant temperatures and lower chances of rain during this time.

Here is the detail for each region in Vietnam in May:

In May, North Vietnam experiences warm and dry weather. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it an ideal time to explore this region. Expect pleasant and sunny days with lower chances of rain. It’s a great opportunity to visit mountainous destinations like Ha Giang, Tam Coc-Ninh Binh to witness the beauty of the rice terraces in full greenery and the Heritage of World UNESCO Halong Bay.

The Central

Central Vietnam also enjoys warm temperatures in May, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This region experiences dry and sunny weather, making it a fantastic time to visit beautiful beaches in Central at Danang or Nha Trang. With the dry season and sunshine, it is also an ideal time to stroll around Hoi An Ancient Town and explore wonderful cultures.

May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, including areas like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Expect increased humidity, occasional showers, and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). However, if there is rain, it usually doesn’t last long in South Areas such as Ho Chi Minh City.

Best Places to Visit Vietnam in May

Vietnam in May is hot, so it is recommended to visit the country’s mountainous areas and beaches to make the most of your trip. Here are some destinations worth exploring:

Located in North Mountain Vietnam, Ha Giang is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and ethnic minority cultures. In May, Ha Giang is at its most vibrant, with lush green rice terraces stretching across the mountainsides. Take a motorbike or trekking tour to explore the region’s picturesque valleys, visit local villages, and witness the fascinating way of life of the ethnic communities.

Tam Coc – Ninh Binh

Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province is a must-visit destination in May. This region boasts enchanting scenery with towering limestone karsts rising from vibrant green rice fields. Especially when visit Tam Coc in May, you will have a chance to explore the breathtaking landscape created by ripe rice fields when biking or taking a boat trip here.

Take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through stunning caves and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the ancient temples and pagodas scattered throughout the area, and don’t miss climbing the steps to the top of Hang Mua for panoramic views of the landscape.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is an iconic destination in Vietnam. May offers ideal weather for cruising through the bay’s emerald waters and admiring the limestone karsts that dot the landscape. Enjoy the panoramic views from the deck of a traditional junk boat, explore hidden caves, and indulge in fresh seafood. Witnessing the sunrise or sunset over the bay is an unforgettable experience.

Pu Luong Thanh Hoa

Not too crowded and touristy like Sapa, For a tranquil escape, Pu Luong in Thanh Hoa province is a hidden gem in May. Visiting this rural area offers stunning landscapes with terraced rice fields, lush forests, and traditional stilt houses. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, go hiking through the picturesque valleys, and interact with the friendly local communities. The breathtaking beauty of Pu Luong is enhanced by the ripe rice season, when the fields come alive with golden hues.

Located in Central Vietnam, Danang is a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage. In May, Danang offers warm weather and is perfect for enjoying the sun, sand, and cool turquoise water.

Relax on the pristine beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delicious seafood. Don’t miss visiting the famous Golden Bridge, an impressive architectural marvel that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.

Just a short distance from Danang, Hoi An is a charming ancient town that transports you back in time. May is an excellent time to explore this other UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, as the weather is warm and the town is less crowded.

Walk through the narrow streets adorned with lanterns, visit the well-preserved historic buildings and temples, and immerse yourself in the bustling markets. Hoi An is famous for its tailors, so consider getting a custom-made outfit during your visit.

Situated on Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. Despite the beginning of the rainy season in May, Nha Trang still offers warm temperatures and occasional sunshine. Relax on the sandy shores, go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the colorful coral reefs, and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies. Don’t miss visiting the Vinpearl Land amusement park for a fun-filled day.

What about Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City in May?

After arriving at the main airports in Vietnam, such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City ( Saigon ), which are often the points of entry for travelers from countries like the US, Australia, Canada, and more, you may find that these cities can be quite hot in May.

Upon arrival, it might be a good idea to stay one night in either Hanoi or HCMC, preferably in the late afternoon or evening when the temperature is not as high as it would be during the day. This will allow you to have a leisurely stroll around the charming Hanoi Old Quarter or experience the vibrant nightlife of Saigon.

By spending the night in one of these cities, you can also take the opportunity to rest and adjust to the local time zone before embarking on your journey to explore other highly recommended destinations the following morning. This way, you’ll start your trip feeling refreshed and ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Vietnam.

Cost & Crowd

Early May is a great time to enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches basking in glorious sunshine, and the advantage is that you’ll encounter fewer crowds compared to earlier in the year. May ranks among the months with lower visitor numbers, except for the period around April 30 to May 2, when many Vietnamese embark on sightseeing trips during the holiday season.

During May, Vietnamese families tend to stay at home, eagerly anticipating the upcoming school holidays in mid-June. As a result, popular beaches like Nha Trang or Quy Nhon won’t be crowded, and major tourist sites and museums in cities will be less busy as well, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. Moreover, this shoulder season presents an opportunity to negotiate better prices for tours and accommodations. However, it’s worth noting that the onset of the rainy season also means an increase in mosquitoes.

In summary, May in Vietnam offers a favorable balance of lower crowds, reasonable prices, and pleasant weather, making it an appealing time to explore the country’s diverse attractions.

Is April or May better for Vietnam?

Both April and May are good months to visit Vietnam. April offers pleasant weather with low humidity, while May brings warmer temperatures. If you prefer milder weather, April might be a better choice. However, May provides an opportunity to witness the ripe rice season in various regions, which adds a unique charm to the landscapes.

Is Maymonsoon season in Vietnam?

May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, particularly in regions like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. While rain showers are more frequent during this time, they are usually short-lived and shouldn’t significantly disrupt your travel plans. In North and Central Vietnam, May is generally drier with lower chances of rain. However, it’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Is May a good time to visit Vietnam?

May can be a great time to visit Vietnam, especially if you enjoy warm weather and want to admire the stunning ripe rice season and beautiful beaches in Vietnam. The northern and central regions offer pleasant temperatures and lower chances of rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

However, if you plan to visit South Vietnam, be prepared for occasional showers and increased humidity. Overall, May offers a good balance between weather conditions and crowd levels, making it a favorable month to experience the diverse attractions of Vietnam.

We hope after reading this travel guide, you’ll plan your visit to Vietnam in May successfully. Whether you choose to explore the mountainous areas, indulge in the ripe rice season, or relax on the beautiful beaches, Vietnam has something to offer for every traveler. Enjoy your trip!

Read more: When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?

From Hue Nguyen – Travel Consultant and Indochina Voyages Team

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Vietnam in May - Weather, Events and Festivals, Best Places to Visit

May in Vietnam is a blooming time in the north and dry and slightly wet in the central part. Although May is not part of the peak tourist season in Vietnam, there are numerous places such as SaPa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City that are excellent to visit at this time. Here, we will talk about the weather, the places you can visit, and the festivals that you can enjoy in Vietnam in May.

What is the Weather like in Vietnam in May?

The weather in May is a blend of spring, summer, and monsoon in Vietnam. The country is less visited in this month as compared to other appropriate months, so it's a golden time to go and enjoy Vietnam with your family and friends. Different parts of the country experience a range of temperatures, but 29°C is the average temperature that hovers over Vietnam in May. 

Northern Mountain Region - Sapa, Ha Giang, Bac Ha, Mu Cang Chai, Haiphong Ha Giang gets a good deal of rain while the North-Western regions - Sa Pa in Hoang Lien National Park and Mu Cang Chai- are delightfully dry. In the North-Eastern coastal region - Haiphong averages a temperature of 27°C.

North Vietnam - Hanoi, Halong Bay, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau & Ninh Binh Hanoi is quite warm during the days of May, with an average temperature of 32°C, but heavy rains and thunderstorms are likely to hit the region. Generally, north Vietnam is perfect for outdoor adventure activities this time.

Central Vietnam - Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, Dalat, Quy Nhon & Nha Tran The Truong Son mountain range shields the coastal region, which is responsible for little rain here. Hue An, Hue, and Da Nang have hot and dry weather, but Hue is a bit cooler than Hue An. The beaches of Nah Trang are alluring, with an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. Overall, central Vietnam is appropriate to visit at this time.

South Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City, The Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc and Con Dao, Phan Thiet & Mui Ne, Ho Tram & Long Hai After the heat of April, May is relatively cooler for South Vietnam. With plenty of short-span downpours, the temperature remains hot and humid, but Phu Quoc and Con Dao beaches remain enjoyable.

Events and Festivals in May

1. international labour day.

International Labor Day on May 1 is a national public holiday in Vietnam. It is a rest day, which is conjoined with Reunification Day on April 30, which makes it a double day off for Vietnamese. And if Labour Day falls on the weekend, workers get the first day of next week off. This day isn't appropriate for traveling long distances or for shopping, yet travelers can enjoy the resort or go for a walk nearby.

2. Lord Buddha's Birthday

Vietnamese festivals are celebrated according to the Lunar Calendar. Buddha’s Birthday, also known as Vesak and Le Phat Dan, is celebrated on the full moon day of the fourth month according to the lunar calendar or in April or May according to the Gregorian calendar.

3. Hue Festival

Celebrated once every two years in April, May, or June, the Hue Festival is widely popular as an international cultural festival and is organized in Hue City, Vietnam, at various venues. Various contests, events, and art shows are held at the festival, where many countries take part. Intriguing sports like human chess, boat racing, street performances by musicians and dancers, and art exhibitions are a part of this fest as well. Poetry Events, Music Festival, and Fashion Show are highlights of the Hue festival. Founded back in 2000, the Hue Festival offers visitors a glance at the rich heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty.

4. Hoi An Lantern Festival

Spectacular night views on the 14th night of every lunar month in Hoi An, Vietnam, are worth experiencing as the city celebrates the festival of lights. Lighting lanterns are considered to bring good fortune in Vietnam. Hoi An Lantern festival is considered to be an incredible moment to follow the rituals of worshipping deceased relatives. The festival not only brings closeness and happiness but is also a wise method to save electricity.

5. Ba Chua Xu Festival

In An Giang Province, South Vietnam, Ba Chau Xu Festival is celebrated as the biggest folk festival of Southern Vietnam from 23rd to the 27th of the fourth Lunar Month. People worship the idol of Ba Chua Xu (the country lady) for good health and protection from evil. The festival constitutes four major rites - Ba Chua Xu washing, Tuc Yet, Xe Chau, and Chanh Te. Major attractions of this festival are Dragon Dance, Classical Opera, Unicorn Dance, and Dance with Cups. 

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in May

Located in the Northwest Mountain region of Vietnam, this beautiful town, SaPa, has various small villages. Travelers must visit the SaPa museum and Cat Cat Village (one of the oldest villages of Sapa) to learn the history of people here. SaPa is great for hiking, boating on SaPa Lake, having warm beverages, and tasting local cuisine or delicious desserts in restaurants. You can buy handicrafts from SaPa Market or visit Ta Phin Village to witness Communal Church Singing - a marriage tradition.

• Other major attractions include Fairy Cave, Silver Waterfalls, Tram Ton Pass, Muong Hoa Valley, and Muong Khuong Bird Market.

2. Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a mountainous northwestern district in Hoa Binh Province. Although there isn’t much to explore here, the peaceful and colorful environment of Mai Chau (home of Thai ethnic groups) is worth visiting. Pu Luong Nature Reserve is good for hiking and if you want to enjoy snow, go for Deo Thung Khe. Stilt houses are noteworthy architectural features of the Mai Chau district.

• Other major attractions include Go Lao Waterfall, Chieu Cave, and Thung Ke Pass Flagpole.

3. Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai is a northwest mountainous rural district in Vietnam that creates jaw-dropping scenery. Khau Pha Pass, called ‘Sky’s Horn’ creates magnificent scenery. There are other small villages in the city to visit to adore the beauty of paddy farming and to experience their local culture by the homestay. Visit to Mu Cang Chai is incomplete without visiting two of its breathtaking waterfalls - Mo and Phu Nu waterfalls. Mu Cang Chai has its own market, too.

• Other major attractions include Ba Nha Bridge, Mam Xoi Hill, and Kim Noi Village.

4. Ninh Binh

Located in North Vietnam, Ninh Binh Province is famous for its Karst Landscape in Tam Coc. A boat can be hired to see the limestone cliffs in Tam Coc. A two-hour excursion takes you through three natural caves - Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Van Long Nature Reserve is a place for keen birdwatchers and nature lovers, as you can spot local flora and fauna here. 

• Other major attractions include Trang An, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Phat Diem Cathedral.

5. Cuc Phuong National Park, Ninh Binh Province

In the soothing season of May, biodiversity is at its peak in Cuc Phuong National Park, located in Ninh Binh Province. Vietnam’s oldest national park includes the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre, where Monkeys, Langurs, and Gibbons were rescued and kept, and the Turtle Conservation Centre. 

Hanoi is the only capital of a country which isn't its largest city. The capital of Vietnam - Hanoi, is a place for every traveler. From several historical museums to underrated monuments to extravagant nightlife, Hanoi offers everything together. There’s a lot to do in Vietnam; in the morning, travelers can visit historical sites and enjoy markets to save the nights for the view of Old Quarter Hanoi on weekend nights and Hoan Kiem Lake for a boat ride.

• Other major attractions include Hanoi Train Street, Cau Giay Park, Dong Xuan Market, Rose Park, Smiley Ville, Lotte Observation Deck, Long Bien Bridge, Ba Vi National Park, and Perfume Pagoda. 

7. Halong Bay

Halong Bay, located in North Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there’s a lot to explore. Spend your May here. Apart from rejuvenating and getting tanned on beaches and islands, travelers can go on a cruise, kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes. There are caves to explore and floating villages to visit.

8. Cat Ba Island, Halong Bay

Cat Ba Island is one of the most amazing and highly visited islands connected to Halong Bay. There are three famous sand beaches- Cat Ba 1, 2 and 3- where you can enjoy time under the sun or swim in the water. If you want to explore caves, visit Surprise Caves to enjoy the colorful atmosphere of Hospital Cave to learn how this secret hospital functioned during the Vietnamese War. There’s Cat Ba Island Resort, which offers a water park and spa centers.

• Other major attractions include Dinh Lagu Lam, Cat Ba Archipelago, and Monkey Island.

9. Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is part of a district called Minh Hao in Central Vietnam. Phong Nha is the home of Son Doong Cave - the largest cave in the world covered by Karst Mountain and has the longest underground river. There are a tremendous number of species of flora and fauna to explore by rowboats. To experience unforgettable scenery, one must visit Phong Nha Cave, The Wet Cave, Tien Son Cave, or The Dry Cave.

• Other major attractions include Nuoc Troi, Chopping Board Shaped Stone, Crouching Stone, and Chai Waterfall.

10. Da Nang

Da Nang is a first-class city located in Central Vietnam, which is visited by many mainly because of its beaches, but there’s more to see. If you want to experience the vibes of SaPa or DaLat, visit Ba Na Hill Station to see the Golden Bridge and enjoy a cable car ride and fantasy park. Marble Mountains are a collection of mountains of Metal, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Water.

• Other major attractions include Am Phu Cave, Son Tra Mountain, Dragon Bridge, Giant Hand Bridge, Han River Bridge, Imperial City, My Son Hindu Sanctuary, Da Nang Museum, and Black Rock Beach.

Another major tourist city in central Vietnam is Hoi An, which was formerly known as FaiFoo. The ancient Town of Hoi An is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has an attraction spot near the riverside of Thu Ban River. Japanese Covered Bridge is a must-go site in the mornings or evenings. To study the art and culture of the city go to the Heritage Art Gallery and Hoi An Museum. To explore the natural beauty of the city, travelers must visit Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach, and An Hoi Sculptor Garden.

• Other major attractions include the Museum of Ceramics, Fujian Assembly Hall, Terracotta Park, Van Duc Pagoda, Hoi An Fine Art Gallery.

12. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is located in Central Vietnam and is great to visit in May to enjoy various water sports at Monkey Island Hon Tre Island and have relaxing hours at Thap Ba Hot Spring. You can spend a couple of hours at Hon Ba Mountain and worship in the aesthetically pleasing Long Son Pagoda (White Buddha Pagoda) and Panogark Tower. There is Tri Nguyen Aquarium and Vinpearl Waterpark for kids to enjoy. Roam at night in Nha Trang Night Market to buy food or clothes, and you can get gifts, souvenirs, and embroidered items from street shops.

• Other major attractions include Vinpearl Cable Car, YangBa Waterfall, and Ba Ho Waterfall Cliff Jumping.

Da Lat, a city in Central Vietnam, is recognized as a garland of flowers. Da Lat showcases French Colonial times, which can be explored in Colonial Palaces - Da Lat Palace I, II, and III. Truc Lam Temple - Zen Buddhist Temple and Linh Phuoc Pagoda are the best places to adore art and worship. Get crazy in the Crazy House, a guest house with weirdly interstitial architecture. Natural beauty can’t be skipped in Da Lat; route your tour towards Datanla Waterfall, Valley of Love, Clay Tunnel, Elephant Waterfalls, and Xuan Huong Lake.

• Other major attractions include Dalat Railway Station, the Clay Tunnel of DaLat, Smurf Village, Dalat Heaven Gate, and Prenn Waterfall.

14. Ho Chi Minh City

In the Southern part of Vietnam, Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, is the largest city in the country. Travelers visit here every year mainly for the diverse cuisine, magnetic nightlife, french architecture, and fascinating skyscrapers. This major city offers spectacular recreational spots: Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden, Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, Chu Chi Tunnel, and Buddhist Cultural Theme Park. Hit ‘Ban Than Market,’ ‘Binh Tay Market,’ and ‘A Thong Market’ for shopping.

• Other major attractions include Artinus 3D Art Museum, September 23rd Park, Tao Dan Park, Ngoc Hoang Pagoda, Cao Dai Temple.

15. Chau Doc – An Giang south

Chau Doc in An Giang Province is a South Vietnamese city that is an essential pilgrimage site where the Ba Chua Xu Festival is celebrated around May. Sam Mountain is the most fascinating place, which has Hang Pagoda. Do not miss Tra Su Cajuput Forest in An Giang; it gives the best view from motorboats or small rowboats. Buy fresh fruits and veggies from Chau Doc Market.

• Other major attractions include Cam Mount, Tuc Dup Hill, and Tra Su Bird Sanctuary.

Why You Should Visit Vietnam in May?

• May is a blooming month with a short duration of rain showers, which allows travelers to go for adventure sports, beaches, or historical museums. Pack full-length clothes, apt for rain, if visiting North or South Vietnam, and summer ones if visiting the central part.
• Except for public holidays around May 1, Vietnam is less crowded as the natives are busy in their daily lives. They wait for summer school vacation to hit beaches like Nha Trang and top monuments. Hence, the roads are free to travel.
• Visiting Vietnam in May is a great option if you wish to explore this Southeast country without spending much on hotels, food, and fares. But stay prepared if you are going to travel in rainy areas, as mosquitoes breed in large amounts in Vietnam.

This post was published by Navyaa Bhardwaj

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Visit Vietnam in May: Best Things To Do & Places To Go

Vietnam in may - ideal for picnics and a seaside stay.

• Updated: March 25, 2023 Lina in Beautiful Vietnam , Vietnam Travel Tips , Vietnam weather 0 comment.

Overview of Vietnam Weather in May

• 5 Days Northern Vietnam Adventure
• Discover the Central Vietnam Highlands in 7 Days
• Central and South Vietnam Beach Resorts in 10 Days

In general, May is not the best time to visit Vietnam, but it’s still not too bad. 29°C – 30°C is the average temperature nationwide with no significant difference between regions.  At this time, the central region is about to reach its peak heat, while the south begins to gradually turn to the rainy season, especially towards the end of the month. This season has brought a welcome relief from the humid heat of recent months. The North also begins to rain more, although the temperature continues to rise as the hot summer approaches. 

In the North: Summer is coming

Muong Hoa Valley

May marks the arrival of summer in northern Vietnam. It gets hotter day by day, with the possibility of showers. Although the average temperature here is only 29°C this month, you can still feel the heat of summer because the hours of sunshine are much longer than the hours of rain. Fortunately, the mountainous area has not been affected by the heat of May. In fact, it is still a good month to visit some famous remote destinations such as Mu Cang Chai and Sapa . You can also go to Ha Giang, but you will need to check the weather forecast frequently as it starts to rain more.

Tip: Prepare sunscreen and apply it every 2 hours to protect yourself from the sun and high UV index.

In the Central: Ideal time to visit

Golden Bridge – Danang

Visit Vietnam in May to enjoy the best time with the beaches of Hoi An, Da Nang, and Nha Trang, with an average temperature of around 30°C. In addition, the north of Hue experiences ideal weather conditions in May. In the west of the Central Highlands and in Da Lat, there is an increase in precipitation despite several periods of drought.

Tip: Bring rain ponchos, umbrellas, flip-flops, and waterproof shoes to cope with sudden heavy showers. 

>>> Go to Central Vietnam: Check our Central Vietnam Tours

In the South: Heavy rains 

Rain is expected to increase in the South, which has helped to reduce the high temperatures of recent months. The average temperature in Southern Vietnam in May is 28°C. Rains tend to fall frequently in the afternoon, often with heavy precipitation.

Tip: Bring rain ponchos, umbrellas, flip-flops, and waterproof shoes to deal with sudden heavy rains.

>>> Learn more: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Major events in Vietnam in May

Although May is no longer a festive period of the year, you can still attend some of the most authentic cultural events in Vietnam. 

International Workers’ Day

International Workers’ Day, on May 1st, is a national holiday in Vietnam. It is a day off that coincides with National Reunification Day on April 30th, making it a double holiday for the Vietnamese. And if International Workers’ Day falls on a weekend, workers have the following Monday off. This day is not appropriate for long-distance travel or shopping, but travelers can enjoy a seaside stay or stroll the area. 

Buddha’s Birthday

Visit Vietnam in May gives you a chance to witness the celebration of Vesak Day or Buddha’s Birthday , which is celebrated on the full moon day of the fourth lunar month, either in April or May of the Gregorian calendar.

Although only about 12% of the population are Buddhists, this day holds significant importance in Vietnam as it marks the birth, enlightenment, and Nirvana of Gautam Buddha. People participate in various rituals and cultural performances on this day, including the Buddha Bathing ceremony, acts of charity, and the hoisting of the Buddhist flag. Temples are adorned with decorations, and at night, candles are lit on floating lotus flowers and released into the river. Don’t miss this joyful day if you’re traveling in major cities in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh’s Birthday (May 19th)

The anniversary of national hero Ho Chi Minh, which falls on May 19th, leads to one of the largest national celebrations. The streets from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City are colored with flowers and banners. However, Nghe An, Uncle Ho’s birthplace, is likely the most important place to celebrate the event. Visiting the village of Kim Lien to offer incense and pay tribute to Uncle Ho is a common practice among the locals. Stories of his life and his works of art are told and broadcast to the younger generation, reminding the whole country of his great contribution to Vietnam’s anti-colonial struggle as well as to arts and culture.

Rain Prayer Ceremony (Mai Chau)

This is one of the most important festivals for the Muong villagers living in Mai Chau, Hoa Binh . The festival is organized to pray for favorable weather when farmers sow their first cereal seeds for the season and to express their wish for a good harvest. Villagers push their sticks toward the sky, symbolizing the Rain God waking up to prevent drought.

Rain Prayer Ceremony – Mai Chau

Hue Festival

Hue Festival is one of the main carnivals and celebrations in Vietnam, taking place every two years in April, May, or June in the city of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage site of Vietnam. During this festival, you can discover and enjoy an amazing range of games, cultural events, and performances that take place over a week.

At this music festival in Vietnam, you will never be bored with the variety of activities available. You can witness drum and percussion dialogues, attend the Hue Poetry Festival, watch Ao Dai fashion parades, human chess, participate in boat races, fly kites, and much more. In addition to these activities, you can also enjoy art exhibitions, film screenings, acrobatics, puppetry, and street performances. These performances showcase the traditional customs practiced by the Nguyen dynasty at that time.

Best places to visit in Vietnam in May

Take a look at some of the top travel destinations in Vietnam in May:

Mai Chau – Rain Prayer Ceremony

Nature endows the Mai Chau district with many beautiful landscapes. It is a tranquil location that helps you forget about the busy and noisy city life and enjoy moments of relaxation after long working days. In May, visitors can witness the Thai people’s rain praying ceremony, explore the scenic fields and villages, and purchase traditional brocade souvenirs.

>>> Read more: Mai Chau Itinerary: How to Spend 1, 2, or 3 Days in Mai Chau?

Halong Bay – Good time for cruises in May

Halong Bay, situated on the western side of the Gulf of Tonkin, is among the 29 most exquisite bays worldwide and is an excellent place to explore in Vietnam. The bay is stunning, featuring a vast sea area and 1,969 islands of varying sizes, along with numerous natural landscapes.

Cruise in Halong Bay

The period from May to June is the best time to visit Ha Long. During this time, the weather is cool, not too hot, and suitable for swimming and sightseeing. The weather in Vietnam in May is perfect for cruising Halong Bay for one or two nights. 

Hoi An – Touristique destination not to be missed

If you visit Vietnam in May, you can enjoy the beautiful climate of Hoi An, which consists of two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. This month offers fresh air that is perfect for visiting and swimming in Cu Lao Cham. Hoi An is famous for its rustic, simple, and attractive beauty. In addition to its traditional values and unique architecture, it also preserves an important cultural foundation. When you travel to Hoi An , you can discover customs, beliefs, folk art, festivals, and romantic natural landscapes. Additionally, you can experience unique cuisine with famous dishes such as Cao Lau, Mi Quang, White Rose Cake, etc.

Hoi An – City of Lanterns

Nha Trang – Seaside stay

The beaches in Vietnam are usually crowded during the summer, as city dwellers flock to all coastal areas, from north to south. The good news is that this mainly happens on weekends. Beach lovers should head to Nha Trang and go on weekdays to have the beaches all to themselves. Rainy days are uncommon before the end of May, and the tropical heat is just right for sunbathing without getting severe sunburns.

>>> Refer to: Nha Trang Beach 3 Days 2 Nights Tour

This guide on the weather in Vietnam in May will help you plan your vacation in this beautiful country. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you can check out Vietnam tours , or contact us for a private consultation.

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Hello, everyone. I'm Lina and I'm very passionate about travelling. I've been to almost all the destinations in Vietnam. Therefore, I'm here to provide you exciting informations about my country- Vietnam.

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2024 Travel Advice: Should I visit Vietnam in May?

Mar 29, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENT

Vietnam Weather in May

Is may monsoon season in vietnam, what is the weather like in vietnam from may to june.

If you’re considering visit Vietnam in May, you might be wondering about the weather and whether it’s an ideal time to visit. In this travel blog, we will delve into the weather conditions in Vietnam during May, highlight the best regions to explore, and provide insights on what to expect during your visit.

May marks the beginning of summer in Vietnam, and the weather varies across different regions of the country. Generally, Vietnam experiences warm and humid conditions during this time, with occasional rainfall in certain areas. It’s essential to note that Vietnam is a long and narrow country, so the climate can greatly differ from one region to another.

May is an ideal time to visit North or Central Vietnam, as it marks the beginning of summer and offers pleasant temperatures without excessive heat. In these regions, such as Hanoi and Hoi An, you can explore historical sites, enjoy the local culture, and indulge in delicious cuisine. However, it’s important to note that May falls within the rainy season in the South, so if you plan to visit Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta, be prepared for occasional rainfall.

What can you expect when visit Vietnam in May?

• Pleasant temperatures in North and Central Vietnam.
• Lively festivals and cultural events.
• Crowded tourist attractions.
• Beautiful landscapes and natural scenery.
• Rich cultural experiences.
• Transition between seasons with a mix of sunny days and occasional showers.

Where to go when visit Vietnam in May?

In May, different regions of Vietnam offer unique features and experiences. Let’s explore each region:

In May, Hanoi enjoys pleasant temperatures, making it an excellent time to explore its historical sites. Visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, delve into the ancient charm of the Old Quarter with its narrow streets and bustling markets, and take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. Immerse yourself in the local street food scene, savoring delicious dishes like pho and banh mi, and experience the lively nightlife of this dynamic city.

Where to visit?

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Temple of Literature
• Old Quarter
• Hoan Kiem Lake

Nestled in the stunning mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa is a picturesque destination renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ethnic cultures. In May, Sapa experiences pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Embark on scenic treks through terraced rice fields, interacting with ethnic minority communities along the way.

Capture unforgettable views of Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. Explore local markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and traditional textiles. Sapa offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

• Terraced rice fields
• Fansipan Mountain
• Local ethnic markets and villages

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its mesmerizing scenery of limestone karsts jutting out from emerald waters. In May, the weather in Halong Bay is generally good for cruising and exploring the bay’s enchanting landscapes. Embark on a boat tour to marvel at the stunning karst formations, kayak through hidden caves and lagoons, and visit floating fishing villages to gain insights into local life. Witness breathtaking sunsets over the bay, creating a magical atmosphere that will leave you in awe of Halong Bay’s natural wonders.

• Scenic boat tours
• Kayaking through karst formations
• Visiting floating fishing villages

Danang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, modern attractions, and cultural experiences. In May, the weather is warm in Danang, inviting visitors to bask in the sun and enjoy beach activities. Relax on the golden sands of My Khe Beach, known for its pristine beauty. Explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with caves and pagodas offering panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the iconic Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, an architectural marvel that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills
• Marble Mountains
• My Khe Beach

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming ancient town that showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Vietnam. In May, Hoi An experiences warm and dry weather, creating a delightful atmosphere for exploration. Take a leisurely walk through the atmospheric streets adorned with colorful lanterns, visit well-preserved ancient houses, and admire the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of the town. Immerse yourself in the vibrant night market, sample local delicacies, and try your hand at a traditional cooking class. Hoi An’s timeless beauty and cultural authenticity will captivate your senses.

• Ancient town of Hoi An
• Japanese Covered Bridge
• Night market and street food

Nha Trang, a coastal city in southern Vietnam, is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and tropical charm. In May, while transitioning to the rainy season, Nha Trang still offers pleasant weather and sunny days. Relax on the soft sands of Nha Trang’s beaches, go snorkeling or diving to explore the colorful coral reefs, or take a boat trip to nearby islands for a tropical getaway. Indulge in fresh seafood and experience the lively nightlife scene with beachside bars and clubs. Nha Trang provides a perfect blend of relaxation, water activities, and coastal beauty.

• Nha Trang beaches
• Snorkeling or diving to explore coral reefs
• Boat trips to nearby islands

>> Explore more: Vietnam Travel Guide -What To Know Before Your Journey

Each region offers its unique attractions and experiences, so choose based on your preferences and interests. Visit Vietnam in May provides favorable weather conditions to explore these regions and enjoy the best of Vietnam.

You can absolutely visit Vietnam in May by combining these wonderful destinations in your one Vietnam Tour. Which allows you to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Here is one of our best-seller Vietnam tour made by our local travel experts for your reference:

No, May is not considered monsoon season in Vietnam. It falls within the transition period between the dry and rainy seasons. While there may be occasional showers, the intensity of rainfall is generally lower compared to the peak monsoon months.

In May and June, Vietnam experiences warm and humid weather. Temperatures can range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit), depending on the region. It’s advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, along with sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Visit Vietnam in May offers a delightful opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and enjoy favorable weather conditions. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam has something to offer every traveler. Just be prepared for warm temperatures, occasional rain showers, and larger crowds at popular attractions.

So, pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting Southeast Asian country.

Our Asia Encounter tour package offers a remarkable journey through some of the most captivating destinations in Vietnam. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi to the majestic beauty of Halong Bay, the cultural richness of Hoi An, and the natural splendor of Sapa, Danang, and Nha Trang, this tour allows you to immerse yourself in the diverse flavors and experiences that Vietnam has to offer.

Whether you’re seeking historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, or vibrant city life, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Vietnam’s highlights. Join us on this extraordinary adventure and create unforgettable memories as you discover the enchanting beauty and warm hospitality of Vietnam.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s tailor-make your tour with our travel consultants now!

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Vietnam in May 2024 – Travel Guide For Your Vietnam Trip

Vietnam has emerged as one of the must-visit destinations in the Southeast Asia region. Since May falls in the summer season, it is a pleasant time for Vietnam tourism in May. Bright sunny days and a bit of rainfall towards the Southern regions is the usual bet on this month over the years. You can expect a lot of crowds at this point in time of the year, as it is the holiday season. Once in for all, Vietnam in May still stays in the bracket of the best time to visit this place so that one can get a good experience. Want to customise your vacation with the picks from the list? We at Pickyourtrail help travellers with tailor-made vacation plans to all their dream destinations. Want to plan your next Vietnam tour package with us? Head straight to Pickyourtrail.com and book your vacation right away!

Get ready to be amazed by the shift in the weather pattern as you travel deep south. Let’s take a brief look at the weather and the places to visit in Vietnam in May.

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Bangalore to Vietnam Package | Chennai to Vietnam Package | Delhi to Vietnam Package | Mumbai to Vietnam Package | Hyderabad to Vietnam Package | Ahmedabad to Vietnam Package | Kolkata to Vietnam Package

Weather In Vietnam In May

Vietnam in May is affected by the monsoon climate, with wet and dry seasons bringing hot and sometimes rainy weather to the country. As mentioned before the country experiences a slightly tricky weather pattern deciding the complete experience on which region of the country you are visiting. The change in weather won’t hamper your experience a lot, you can still spend some quality time. The general pattern is in such a way that the central part is slightly wet and the north experiencing more heat and the rain sites are to the south.

North Vietnam

Hanoi, halong bay, sapa, ha giang, mu cang chai, ninh binh & mai chau.

The temperature keeps rising throughout the month even though there is rainfall expected on odd days. The average temperature stays around 29-degree celsius. The mountain regions of Vietnam in May remain at pleasant weather, for example, Mu Cang Chai and Sapa region. Whereas the east gradually starts to see some rain as the month progresses.

Central Vietnam

Hoi an, da nang, hue, nha trang, quy nhon, dalat & central highlands.

It’s the bright sun that welcomes you in central Vietnam. Pretty much all the famous beaches like Hoi An, Danang ad Nha Trang become must-visit during this period as the temperature stays at 30-degree celsius. The rainfall is on the rise in the Central Highlands and in Dalat. Still, the peak is expected to have good spells of dry period.

South Vietnam

Ho chi minh city, phan thiet & mui ne, mekong delta, ho tram & long hai, con dao & phu quoc.

The southern part of Vietnam in May experiences heavy rainfall due to Monsoon. This in oneway helps to bring the temperature down a bit but still, there might be heavy downpours at certain regions. The average temperature stays around 27. People can still enjoy favourable diving conditions around the Island of Con Dao in this period of the month.

Top 5 Places To Visit In Vietnam In May

This destination has something or the other for all kinds of travellers all around the year. We shall take a look at the top places the one shouldn’t miss during a vacation to Vietnam in the month of May.

1. Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai

If nature and photography are your bread and breakfast you sure would love this place and will not regret visiting this place. Located at a distance of nearly 300Kms in northeastern Vietnam. You get to have a bit of Hill-tribe culture as well when you are in this place. This place is admired for its uniqueness among the must-visits in Vietnam in May. This place is perfect to spend with your partner. Visit here with your partner by booking a  Vietnam honeymoon package .

2. Pu Luong Thanh Hoa

Looking to escape from the regular crowded city kind of experience and would like to indulge yourself into the splendid mountain ranges, scenic rivers and waterfalls. All this in combination takes the experience to a whole new level. Agriculture the predominant form of occupation, this month is the peak for all agricultural activities and this is applicable for this place as well.

3. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is one of the famous seaside towns in Vietnam. This place acts as a perfect beach destination without any flaws to point out and rightly so being chosen by most travellers around the world. Enjoy any number of peaceful days without any complaint in this part of the world.

In terms of activities, this place offers everything starting from the mandatory scuba diving to Island hopping, Fly boarding and water skiing are the other activities that interest people visiting this place. And don’t forget to try out the fish food culture on your trip to Vietnam in May.

4. Visiting Imperial

Let alone the fact that this monument has stayed as the political centre for 13 consecutive centuries. What amazes us as travel enthusiasts, is that it is still considered and still is one of the most visited places in the whole of Vietnam in May. Since 2010, this has been regarded as one of the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. This magnificent monument also stays as evidence of the leftovers of the Vietnamese military power.

This is opened in two slots every day. 8 AM to 11.30 AM and 1.30 PM to 5 PM. And the entrance fee for this would be around 90 rupees per person.

5. Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum 

Have you ever been fascinated by the marble constructions? Want to visit one in Vietnam in May? This is an iconic construction that as pulled a lot of crowd over the years. All the resources used to complete the construction are taken from nearby places alone. This is opened on all days of the week except Friday from 8-11 AM. There is an entrance fee of Rs. 30 for a person.

Book Your trip with Pickyourtrail!

Once in for all, Vietnam in May still stays in the bracket of the best time to visit this place so that one can get a good experience. Want to customise your vacation with the picks from the list? We at Pickyourtrail help travellers with tailor-made vacation plans to all their dream destinations.

FAQ’s

Yes, it is considered as an ideal time to visit Vietnam.

South Vietnam might experience rainfall during May, but still the weather conditions remain warm.

Yes, there are chances of rain in Hanoi in the month of May.

Vietnam is definitely a budget friendly place to travel.

The peak season in Vietnam is from December to April.

146 Posts Published.

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Vietnam In May - Weather, Places to Visit, Things to Do

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As the days grow longer and the air becomes warmer, the atmosphere has a sense of anticipation. May marks the enchanting transition from spring to summer in Vietnam, a time when the landscape awakens in a symphony of colours, and the country becomes a tapestry of life and culture.

Imagine yourself strolling through vibrant markets, where fresh tropical fruits tantalise your taste buds, or trekking through lush, green rice terraces that stretch endlessly before you. Picture the streets adorned with colourful lanterns and locals celebrating ancient festivals with music and dance. Vietnam in May is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, and there's no better time to immerse yourself in this dynamic tapestry of experiences. Join us as we journey through this extraordinary country, unveiling the hidden gems and unforgettable moments that await you during the spring-to-summer transition. It's time to plan your trip to Vietnam and let the adventure begin!

Weather In Vietnam In May

May in Vietnam offers a delightful blend of weather, making it an ideal time to explore this diverse and beautiful country. As the last vestiges of spring gracefully transition into early summer, you can expect warm and pleasant conditions throughout most of the nation.

In northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, May is characterised by rising temperatures, with an average high of around 32°C (89.6°F) and occasional rain showers, so this can be the best time to visit Vietnam in May this is a fantastic time to explore the capital's cultural gems and lush green landscapes .

Central Vietnam, encompassing cities like Da Nang and Hoi An, enjoys a balmy and dry climate. May temperatures typically hover around 28°C (82.4°F), creating the perfect atmosphere for beach outings and historical adventures. Southern Vietnam, home to Ho Chi Minh City, experiences warm and humid weather, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F). The south remains relatively dry, inviting travellers to explore the bustling city streets and the enchanting Mekong Delta.

Read More :  Waterfalls In Vietnam

Places To Visit In Vietnam In May

Spring is leaving behind and summer is about to roll; Vietnam weather in May is just perfect to venture into some amazing locations. Don’t miss these places in Vietnam in May.

• Sapa Valley, Lao Cai Province | The Wonderland
• Halong Bay | Quang Ninh Province
• Hue | Thua Thien-Hue Province
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park | Remarkable National Park
• Mui Ne, Binh Thuan Province | The Coastal Escape

1. Sapa Valley, Lao Cai Province | The Wonderland

In May, Sapa Valley, nestled in the Lao Cai Province, transforms into a mesmerising wonderland. The terraced rice fields glisten in shades of green and gold as they are ready for planting, creating a picture-perfect landscape. May is a fantastic time for trekking and exploring the local culture.

Read More :  Vietnam In July

Things to Do:

• Go on Trekking Adventures
• Visit the Love Waterfall
• Shop at Local Markets

Major Tourist Spots:

• Fansipan Mountain
• Cat Cat Village
• Sapa Stone Church

Read More :  Vietnam In June

2. Halong Bay | Quang Ninh Province

Halong Bay's emerald waters and iconic limestone karsts are enchanting year-round, but in May, the weather is particularly pleasant for cruising. With fewer tourists, you can truly savour the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kayak through hidden caves, visit floating fishing villages and witness the bay's unique biodiversity. The clear skies and comfortable temperatures in May make it an ideal time to explore this natural wonder.

• Embark on a cruise
• Paddle through the bay's emerald waters
• Explore Sung Sot Cave
• Ti Top Island
• Vung Vieng Fishing Village
• Thien Cung Cave

Read More :  Camping In Vietnam

3. Hue | Thua Thien-Hue Province

The ancient city of Hue comes alive in May with vibrant colours and cultural festivities. Visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the history of the Nguyen Dynasty. May is also the time for the Hue Festival, a biennial event showcasing traditional music, dance, and art. The city's charming Perfume River adds to the romantic atmosphere. Experience a blend of history and culture as you traverse through Hue's intriguing streets.

• Explore the Imperial City: Wander through the historic citadel and the Forbidden Purple City.
• Perfume River Boat Ride
• Savour Hue Traditional Cuisine
• The Imperial City (Citadel)
• Thien Mu Pagoda
• Dong Ba Market

Read More :  Romantic Places In Vietnam

4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park | Remarkable National Park

May is the perfect month to venture into the heart of this remarkable national park , known for its extensive cave systems, including the world-famous Son Doong Cave. The weather is pleasant for caving expeditions, and you can explore Phong Nha's breathtaking landscapes and underground wonders. With a guided tour, you can delve into the awe-inspiring subterranean world of immense chambers and spectacular formations.

• Explore the astonishing caves like Paradise Cave
• Biking and Trekking
• Dark Cave Advenure
• Son Doong Cave
• Paradise Cave
• Phong Nha Cave

Read More :  Trekking Places In Vietnam

5. Mui Ne, Binh Thuan Province | The Coastal Escape

Mui Ne offers a unique coastal escape with its otherworldly Red and White Sand Dunes. The weather is perfect for kite surfing and windsurfing, thanks to the consistent winds. You can also visit the Fairy Stream, a natural wonder with red and white sand formations shaped by the water's gentle flow.

• Kite Surfing and Windsurfing
• Walk barefoot through the enchanting red and white sand formations Red and White
• Experience the ethereal landscapes
• Mui Ne Beach
• Mui Ne Fishing Village
• Mui Ne Harbor

Read More :  Food Of Vietnam

Things To Do In Vietnam In May

Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences and activities for travellers. Here are the top five t hings to do in Vietnam :

1. Explore Halong Bay

Cruise through the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore hidden caves , go kayaking, and take in the breathtaking scenery. Don't miss a hike to Ti Top Island for panoramic views.

2. Visit Hoi An Ancient Town

Wander through the enchanting lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture. Explore ancient temples, indulge in local cuisine, and get tailor-made clothing at affordable prices.

3. Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels

Gain insight into Vietnam's history by visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the underground network used during the Vietnam War, learn about guerrilla warfare tactics, and even crawl through sections of the tunnels.

4. Experience the Culture in Hanoi

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Vietnam's capital, Hanoi. Explore the historic Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, witness a water puppet show, and savour the flavours of street food at the bustling night markets .

Read More :  Facts About The Vietnam

5. Trek in Sapa Valley

Head to the lush Sapa Valley in northern Vietnam for incredible trekking adventures. Hike through terraced rice fields, visit ethnic minority villages, and be captivated by the stunning landscapes of this mountainous region.

Read More :  Best Street Food

Vietnam Events In May

There is no dearth of festivals in May in Vietnam because the weather is gorgeous and adequate. It is neither hot nor cold, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture while simultaneously admiring Vietnam's beauty. Plan your Vietnam in May itinerary ahead of time to avoid missing any of these celebrations.

Read More :  Singapore Vs. Vietnam

1. Hue Festival

• Date: Biennially, so it may vary from year to year

The Hue Festival is a grand celebration of culture and arts, showcasing the rich heritage of the former imperial capital. It features various cultural performances, including traditional music, dance, and rituals. Since the date is not fixed for this festival, what to pack for Vietnam in May for this festival may vary too. It is advisable to get information beforehand. Visitors can witness historical reenactments, parades, and various activities, offering a glimpse into the country's royal history.

Read More :  Islands In Vietnam

2. Buddha's Birthday (Vesak)

• Date: The date is determined by the lunar calendar, so it varies each year but typically falls in May.

Vesak is a significant Buddhist holiday celebrated throughout Vietnam. Temples and pagodas are adorned with colourful lanterns and flowers, and Buddhists visit these places to make offerings and participate in ceremonies. It's a time for reflection, it is one of the most sought-after Vietnam May festivals, as it is an excellent opportunity to witness the spiritual side of Vietnamese culture.

3. Doan Ngo Festival (Tet Doan Ngo)

• Date: 5th of the 5th lunar month (typically in May or June)

Tet Doan Ngo, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival , is a traditional Vietnamese holiday. It marks the summer solstice and is associated with activities to protect health and ward off bad luck. Traditional practices include eating sticky rice cakes (banh tro) and enjoying various seasonal fruits and herbs. People believe that these practices help cleanse the body of parasites and promote good health.

4. Dien Bien Phu Victory Day

• Date: May 7th

Dien Bien Phu Victory Day commemorates the historic battle that took place in Dien Bien Phu in 1954, leading to the end of the First Indochina War. Ceremonies, parades, and cultural events in the city mark the day. It's an important day in Vietnamese history and an opportunity to learn more about the nation's past.

5. Sene Dolta Festival

• Date: The 15th day of the 8th lunar month, which usually falls in May or early June

Sene Dolta is a traditional festival of the Khmer ethnic community in the Mekong Delta. The festival is a time for Khmer people to pay homage to their ancestors and show respect for the deceased. Ceremonies take place at pagodas, and participants bring offerings to monks. It's a unique opportunity to experience the cultural diversity of Vietnam.

Read More :  Snorkelling In Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Tips For May

Among many, you can keep in mind these May travel tips for Vietnam before you pack your bags and leave for Vietnam. Don’t forget to check Vietnam May travel deals before flying to Vietnam.

Prepare for Varied Weather: Pack for warm and humid conditions in the north, dry and sunny weather in the central areas, and hot and humid days in the south.

Read More :  Airports In Vietnam

• Plan Ahead: Book accommodations and tours in advance due to increased tourist activity in May.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink bottled or purified water to combat the heat. Be cautious with ice in your drinks.
• Sun Protection and Mosquito Repellent: Use sunscreen, wear sunglasses and a hat for sun protection. Bring mosquito repellent to guard against mosquito bites, especially in rural areas.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly in temples, remove your shoes before entering, and be mindful of public displays of affection. Learning basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your interactions with locals.
• Check COVID-19 Protocols: Stay informed about any COVID-19 travel restrictions, quarantine rules, and health protocols. Keep updated with information from your home country and the Vietnamese government regarding travel advisories and entry requirements.

Read More : Tourist Places To Visit In Vietnam

With these itinerary tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to a wonderful May trip through Vietnam's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Enjoy your Spring vacation and create lasting memories in this beautiful environment. Plan your dream holiday to Vietnam with Adotrip and take advantage of a wealth of information, one-stop travel assistance, and the option to book Flights, Hotels, and Tour Packages all under one roof while experiencing the beauty and warmth of this great nation. Purchase your tickets today and begin your journey!

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Frequently asked questions about vietnam in may.

Q1. What is the weather like in Vietnam in May? A1. In May, Vietnam experiences varying conditions: warm and humid in the north, dry and sunny in central areas, and hot in the south.

Q2. Are there any water-related activities or water festivals in Vietnam during May? A2. Yes, May in Vietnam offers ideal conditions for water-related activities such as kayaking, swimming, and enjoying the Dragon Boat Festival.

Q3. Which parts of Vietnam offer the best opportunities for nature enthusiasts in May? A3. In May, northern Vietnam, particularly Sapa and Halong Bay, provides excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts with lush landscapes and pristine waters.

Q4. What are the local customs or etiquette I should be aware of when visiting Vietnam in May? A4. In Vietnam in May, observe modest clothing in temples, remove shoes before entry, and show respect for elders. Greetings are appreciated.

Q5. Are there any specific safety tips for travelling in Vietnam during May? A5. You can keep in mind the following things when travelling in Vietnam:

• Stay hydrated
• Wear sunscreen
• Use mosquito repellent,
• Be cautious with street food
• Aware of weather conditions during May in Vietnam.

--- Published By  Adotrip

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

Vietnam is an astonishing mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity.

The scenery ranges from jagged peaks seen from winding mountain passes down to verdant paddy fields painted every shade of green in the palette, while Vietnam's long history and multicultural population (with over 50 ethnic minority groups) make a trip here rich in heritage.

Outdoor lovers can get their teeth into the countryside within the numerous national parks, where hiking, biking, and kayaking are popular things to do, but Vietnam's most famous natural tourist attraction, the spectacular karst seascape of Halong Bay, is one natural sight that even the more slothful can experience up close on a cruise.

While the rural areas brim with lush panoramas, the big cities buzz with contemporary life and provide ample opportunities to get stuck into Vietnam's tasty culinary highlights.

This fascinating country is full of surprises and is one of Southeast Asia's most underrated destinations. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Halong Bay

2. ho chi minh city, 4. phong nha-ke bang national park, 7. sapa countryside, 9. nha trang, 10. cu chi tunnels, 11. ba be national park, 12. mekong delta, 13. cat ba island, 14. ha giang, 15. phu quoc island, 16. con dao islands, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit vietnam.

The karst seascape of Halong Bay is one of the best places to visit in the world for spellbinding sea views and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thousands of limestone islands sit within this bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, eroded into jagged pinnacles by wind and water action over millennia.

With the bay's scenery best seen by boat, this is prime cruising territory. Opt for at least an overnight tour to see Halong Bay's iconic views as a day trip doesn't do it justice.

There are plenty of caves in the bay that can be entered including the Hang Sung Sot, with three mammoth caverns, and the Hang Dao Go, with superbly weird stalagmites and stalactites. For most people though, the highlight is simply cruising amid the karsts and soaking up the changing scenery of pinnacles as you pass by.

There are plenty of different cruise tours to choose from. Check the different itineraries offered before booking as many travelers have left Halong Bay underwhelmed by their cruise.

Author's Tip: If possible, book a tour that takes in neighboring Lan Ha Bay as well as Halong Bay. The karst scenery is just as dramatic here but fewer cruise trips visit. And check if your cruise offers included activities such as guided kayaking (which allows you to experience an up-close view of the scenery).

For big city fans, no visit to Vietnam is really complete without a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, the buzzing commercial hub of the country.

The streets are an insane clog of motorbikes and cars, the restaurant and café scene is incredibly cosmopolitan, and the shopping is the best in the country.

At its center is Dong Khoi, a relatively small and easily navigable central district, which holds most of the city's sights.

Here, you'll find the HCMC Museum, with a brilliant collection of artifacts that weaves together the story of the city, and the grand Notre Dame Cathedral, built in the late 19th century.

Check out the old district of Da Kao nearby for some of the best surviving examples of the city's French colonial architecture and also to visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda with its dazzling array of Buddhist and Taoist religious iconography.

Afterwards, the History Museum is a must-do for history fans with stacks of relics on display from various archaeological sites.

For many visitors, the two big-hitter tourist attractions not to miss are just a little out of the center, along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. The Reunification Palace, then known as Independence Palace, was the residence for South Vietnam's president. It's chiefly famous as the spot where North Vietnam's tanks stopped on 30 April 1975, officially ending the war. It's a completely fascinating place to visit complete with 1960s furnishings still in situ.

Nearby is the War Remnants Museum, which although very obviously biased, paints a disturbing picture of the brutality of war and the many atrocities committed by US Forces during their Vietnam campaign.

One of Vietnam's most historic towns, Hue is packed to the brim with relics from the reign of the 19th-century Nguyen emperors.

Sitting along the banks of the gorgeous Perfume River, the Imperial Enclosure is a huge site set within walls that sprawl for 2.5 kilometers.

While touring the grounds check out the gorgeous Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace with its finely lacquered interior detailing, the Dien Tho Residence where the Queen Mothers would live, and the Halls of Mandarins with its preserved ceiling murals.

A dazzling number of historic sites lie outside the Imperial Enclosure walls as well.

One of the nicest ways of visiting a collection of outlying sites is by taking a riverboat cruise on the Perfume River. A day cruise can take you to visit several royal tombs along with some pagodas.

If you're short on time, the best tomb to visit is the Tomb of Tu Doc and the most important pagoda in the area is the Thien Mu Pagoda, with its tower that soars for 21 meters high.

One of the best places to visit in Vietnam for caving, World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a dramatic karst mountain formation honeycombed with huge caverns, which are home to superb stalactite and stalagmite displays.

It's best known for its caving activities , which range from multi-day hiking and caving tours for the more adventurous, to simpler half-day trips to caves with easy access provided by boat trips and modern boardwalks, but the national park also offers mountain biking and trekking activities.

The most popular destinations within the park are the Paradise Cave , which extends for a staggering 31 kilometers below ground, and the Phong Nha Cave, where the interior is accessed by boat. Half-day tours can be easily arranged once you're in the area.

The national park's most renowned caverns though are Son Doong Cave (the world's largest cave) , and the Tu Lan Cave with its cavern river system. Access to these, and to certain other caves in the park are restricted to organized tours (ranging from one-day to multi-day expeditions) which are all run by Phong Nha's expert adventure tour company Oxalis . It's well worth booking in advance to secure your spot.

To make the most of your time here, time your visit for outside the rainy season, which runs from October to December, when many of the national park's caves are closed to the public.

You can access Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park from Son Trach (also known as Phong Nha village).

Surrounded by lush jungle-covered mountains, My Son is a ruined Cham era temple city that dates from the 4th century.

This old Hindu religious center was still very much in use during the 7th to 10th centuries and only fell into complete decline and abandonment during the 13th century.

There are around 20 temple structures still standing here, all built of brick or sandstone blocks and showing interesting influences from various Asian empires, including Indian and Malay.

Note that the temples of Group B are the oldest, while Group A once contained the site's most important monument but was destroyed deliberately by US forces during the Vietnam War.

A good museum on-site houses plenty of information on the Cham.

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

Beautiful Hoi An is the most atmospheric city in Vietnam, with bags of surviving historic architecture.

The old town quarter is a joy to explore, packed to the brim with well-preserved merchant houses that hark back to Hoi An's trading center heyday of the 15th century, when the town was a major meeting point for Japanese and Chinese merchants who flocked here for the local silks.

Plenty of the old merchant houses have been opened to the public, so you can get a taste of these times. The best is 17th-century Tan Ky House, with fascinating architectural and decorative elements.

Hoi An's major symbol is the delightful Japanese Bridge at the western end of Tran Phu Street, while nearby, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is the old town's most highly decorated temple.

There are numerous small pagodas and museums dotted about town, but Hoi An's true charm is found in simply rambling the old town streets admiring the well-preserved facades.

The verdant rice field countryside surrounding Sapa, bordered by the jagged peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains (often still known by their French colonial era name of the Tonkinese Alps), are home to Vietnam's most beautiful rural vistas.

The deep valleys here are home to a diverse mix of the country's ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao people, while the rippling hills are terraced with rice fields and overlooked by the country's tallest peak, Fansipan Mountain.

This is the top trekking destination in Vietnam with oodles of options to trek or day hike between tiny villages and experience the staggering mountain views.

Sapa itself is the main base here - an old hill station and now a bustling and forever growing tourist center that is a stark contrast to the sumptuous tranquil countryside right on its doorstep.

Author's Tip: Keen trekkers looking for more of northern Vietnam's lush mountain vistas may want to skip the busy Sapa scene completely and nudge further 95 kilometers northwest to Bac Ha , where the terraced hill views on hikes between hill villages are just as beautiful. Bac Ha's Sunday market is also a very popular day trip from Sapa.

Vietnam's capital is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation and a place that befuddles travelers as much as it charms them.

The motorbike frenzy, pollution, and constant clamor of street vendors can get too much for some travelers, but if you want to dive into Vietnamese city life, Hanoi is the place to do it.

The old town quarter has plenty of dilapidated charm on offer, while history fans should make a beeline here simply to see the bundle of excellent museums.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Vietnam Fine Art Museum are both brilliant introductions to the diverse artistry of the country, while the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important tribute to the founder of modern Vietnam.

Author's Tip: It's well worth adding extra time into your itinerary to use Hanoi as a base for exploring the many sights within day tripping distance. In particular, the Tay Phuong and Thay Pagodas (30 kilometers west from the central city), Co Loa Citadel (24 kilometers northeast), and the Huong Pagoda (also known as the Perfume Pagoda; 60 kilometers southwest).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

For sandy fun in Vietnam, Nha Trang is king. The well-maintained beach trundles for six kilometers along the shoreline of central Nha Trang city and during summer is jam-packed with local families on vacation, as well as foreign visitors.

There is excellent swimming here with designated swimming areas and manicured lounging areas that make this a great option for relaxing days soaking up the sun and sand.

If you do get bored of sunbathing, the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers are just to the north across the Xom Bong Bridge and have been used as a place of worship here since at least the 7th century (with some historians saying the site itself has been a place of active worship since much earlier).

There is also an excellent museum dedicated to the work of Alexandre Yersin who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and founded Nha Trang's Pasteur Institute (which still carries out vaccination programs in Vietnam today).

An absolutely fascinating experience for all travelers, not just those interested in Vietnam's modern military history, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive tunnel network that during the war, stretched for more than 250 kilometers, allowing VC troops to operate and communicate in the area surrounding Ho Chi Minh City.

Two short sections of the network can be visited with a guide who'll take you down into the narrow unlit confines, which definitely are not for claustrophobia sufferers.

You will literally be crawling on your hands and knees and some points. You can access the tunnels at either Ben Dinh village (the more popular choice) or Ben Duoc village.

Tranquil Ba Be National Park is absolutely stunning with the three interlinked Ba Be Lakes at its heart, rimmed by jagged karst peaks and thickly forested slopes.

Most visitors come here to take peaceful boat trips or kayak on the lake and explore the caves full of stalactites and stalagmites in the vicinity, but for the more active, there's also excellent hiking and trekking in the hills here between ethnic minority villages.

This is one of the most peaceful spots in Vietnam, and travelers who spend the night here sleep in traditional stilt-house homestay accommodation along the lakeshore, allowing an experience of simple rural life.

The far south of Vietnam is where the mighty Mekong River finally finds its way to the sea in a maze of waterways that crisscross the floodplain.

Incredibly lush, with paddy field vistas and mangroves, and full of local life, with chaotic floating markets to explore by boat, the delta is one of the most interesting regions for travelers to discover.

Can Tho is the most popular town to use as a base, as it's close to the floating markets of Phong Dien and Cai Rang, while boat trips from Ca Mau allow you to explore the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve.

This area of Vietnam is one of the best to visit for keen bird watchers and nature lovers , as it is home to both Tra Su Bird Sanctuary Forest and Bac Lieu Bird Sanctuary.

One of Vietnam's major centers for activities and adventure travel attractions, Cat Ba Island sits on the western edge of Halong Bay.

This is the best place to visit if you want to organize cruises and kayaking trips in Lan Ha Bay, which lies off Cat Ba's southern coast. Lan Ha Bay is a less visited seascape of karst islets and outcrops that makes for a quieter alternative to Halong Bay.

Off the water, much of Cat Ba's dense jungle interior is part of Cat Ba National Park, where hikers can spot plentiful birdlife, as well as animals such as macaques.

For many visitors, though, Cat Ba is all about climbing opportunities. Climbing excursions here utilize both the island's limestone cliffs and Lan Ha Bay's outcrops, providing experiences to suit both complete climbing beginners and experienced climbers.

The emerald-green karst mountain landscapes along Ha Giang's mountain passes make this far-north province prime territory for scenic road-tripping by either motorbike or car.

In particular, the twisty Quan Ba Pass between Ha Giang town and Tam Son provides panoramic vistas of the karst plateau and its jagged limestone outcrops, while the zigzagging Mai Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac offers dizzying views of the lush mountain scenery and narrow valleys below.

Time your visit to coincide with one of the area's market days, when traders from the surrounding mountain villages pile into town. Dong Van's Sunday market is one of the best.

Sitting 45 kilometers off the southern coast of the country, in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is a densely forested island, speckled by sweeps of white-sand beach that attract plenty of sunseekers during the winter dry season.

Dry season (November to May) is also when the island's underwater and on-the-water tourism attractions spring into action, with plenty of dive sites in the waters just offshore, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips.

Many of the main boat excursions head to the An Thoi Islands, just to the south of Phu Quoc, which is home to the best snorkeling in the area.

Off the water, the Phu Quoc cable-car provides bird's-eye views for eight kilometers, soaring over the seascape and islands, all the way from Phu Quoc to the island of Hon Thom in the An Thoi Islands.

Phu Quac is accessed by plane or regular ferries from the mainland towns of Rach Gia and Ha Tien. As Ha Tien lies very close to the southern border crossing with Cambodia, the island is a popular first (or last) stop-off in Vietnam for overland travelers.

This remote island group lies around 160 kilometers offshore in the South China Sea and is renowned among divers as one of the best places to visit in the country, both for the variety of sea life and for the coral reefs.

Much of the Con Dao Islands, and the surrounding water, is a protected wilderness area, with the island shores home to nesting turtles, and dense forest still covering the island interiors.

The main island, and prime base for visitors with all the accommodation and things to do, is Con Son Island, which has sweeps of sand strung out across its coast that attract beachgoers looking for a relaxed sun-soaked getaway, as well as divers.

Even if you're here mostly for the beach, make sure to explore the historic sites of Con Son Town (the island's only settlement) including Phu Hai Prison, Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, and the prison known as the Tiger Cages, which document the dark history of this isolated island group.

Con Son's remote position led to the island being used to incarcerate political prisoners during the era Vietnam was occupied by French colonial forces, and later by both the South Vietnamese government and the occupying American forces.

Preserved sites including Phu Hai Prison and the prison cages used by the US forces, known as the Tiger Cages, along with Con Son Town's Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, do an excellent job of documenting this history for visitors.

Access to Con Son Island is either by flight from Ho Chi Minh City or by ferry from the coastal city of Vung Tau.

Once a sleepy coastal fishing town, Mui Né has developed into a beautiful beach resort town and a prime destination for windsurfing, sailing, and kitesurfing.

Compared to other beach destinations in Vietnam , however, Mui Né remains relatively unknown - and this means pristine beaches and a quiet retreat for most of the year.

One of Mui Né's most unique attractions is the natural Red Sand Dunes just outside town, where visitors can practice sand-sledding or rent dune buggies for a more adrenaline-charged experience.

Tucked away between nearby fishing villages and towering orange limestone formations, there's the fairy stream, a slow-moving warm stream that almost feels like a walkway because it's so shallow - follow it to the end to reach a waterfall.

For those wishing to explore beyond the coastline, there are also the ruins of the Po Shanu Cham Towers - remnants of the Cham Empire that dominated the area many centuries ago.

Vietnam experiences strong monsoon seasons, where heavy rains hit the cities and the countryside, often causing floods and mudslides. If you're planning to travel around, the best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which lasts from December to February – but there are some exceptions.

The south of Vietnam – where Ho Chi Minh city is located – experiences a more tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity year-round. Visiting these areas in the cooler months means less humidity and temperatures in the high 20s rather than the high 30s and 40s, which makes it more comfortable to walk around.

In the north, however, many areas experience an actual winter. Hanoi sees temperatures in the mid- to high teens in December and January – and in the mountains of Sapa in the north, you'll even get to see some snow during these months.

If you're visiting Danang for some beach time or to travel through the ancient town of Hoi An, it's best to arrive between February and May, when water and air temperature are in the 20s – perfect beach weather for enjoying the sand or a dip in the water. The rainy season, and especially the months of September and October, see very heavy rains and often very strong wind storms on the coast, so it's better to stay away from Danang during this time.

More on Vietnam

The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Taking a cruise along the Mekong Delta is an incredible experience not to be missed © Cultura Exclusive / Rosanna U / Getty Images

The siren song of Vietnam has brought many travelers to its shores in search of incredible landscapes, pearl-white beaches , chaotic and vibrant cities, and one of the warmest welcomes in the world.

The tough decision for travelers isn't whether they should visit Vietnam, it's how they choose what to do with so many incredible options. Do you start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)? Do you swap the big city experience for the beaches and seafood suppers of Phu Quoc island? Do you dive headlong into the history of a dozen rival empires, or embrace the dynamic, modern Vietnam that has emerged from the aftermath of conflict?

No matter what you want your vacation to look like, accept that you'll never cover everything in one trip and embrace it as a reason to return. Here are 15 incredible things to do that need to be on your Vietnam to-do list.

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

The vibrant capital of the former North Vietnam – and today the capital of the nation – Hanoi is where old and new Vietnam come together. Traces of the imperial past float like ghosts in a city surging skywards – hawkers drift through the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter selling snacks from traditional yoke baskets, while the surrounding buildings are lit up with advertising displays and strip lights.

Exploring at street level is highly atmospheric and fantastic fun – mix up days visiting wartime and imperial relics with evenings feasting on some of Asia’s finest food and late nights dousing the sticky summer heat with glasses of bia hoi (local draught beer).

Planning tip: As they say, Hanoi rocks, and the best places to rock out like a local are lively live music venues such as the moody Binh Minh Jazz Club and keep-it-loud Hanoi Rock City .

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Okay, we concede that Halong Bay – the atmospheric sprawl of rocky coves and eroded karst islands to the east of Hanoi – is firmly discovered, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to discover away from the cruise ship crowds. If a tour on a diesel-powered luxury junk doesn’t appeal, consider hiring a kayak to potter around Lan Ha Bay near Cat Ba Island , where outcrops sculpted by wind and waves emerge from the water like the teeth of sea monsters.

Alternatively, leave the diesel fumes behind in calmer Bai Tu Long Bay to the north, where more jungle-capped islands shelter low-key resorts and languorous beaches.

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty held court in Hue until 1945, and the city’s damaged but still impressive historic relics feel somehow closer to imperial China than to the rest of Southeast Asia. However, for many travelers, it’s all about the food. More than half of Vietnam's estimated 3000 local dishes are believed to have originated in Hue, from the vermicelli-noodle-based bun bo Hue and crispy banh khoai pancakes topped with shrimp and pork to canapé-like, soft-and-crunchy banh ram it dumplings. The lavish imperial cuisine known as am thuc cung dinh – created by the emperors’ loyal chefs – can still be sampled in some of Hue's top restaurants, such as Thin Gia Vien and Hoang Phu .

Planning tip: Don’t restrict yourself to posh imperial banquets; for less than 100,000 dong you can gorge on tasty Hue staples at busy stalwart restaurants such as Madam Thu or at food stalls on the streets.

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

Hue gets a second spot on the list thanks to the astounding imperial tombs, which preserve the mortal remains of a string of Nguyen emperors and empresses, from dynasty-founding Gia Long to Khai Dinh , the last Nguyen emperor to be buried on Vietnamese soil (his son, Bao Dai, the final emperor of Vietnam, was interred in the Cimetière de Passy in Paris ).

While crowds mob the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure, you can still find peaceful moments for contemplation by skipping the boat tours and renting a motorcycle to visit the extravagant mausoleums along the Perfume River. Don’t miss the towering  Thien Mu pagoda , looming over the north bank on the city fringes.

Detour: Equipped with two wheels, you can also buzz north from Hue to enjoy unspoiled dune beaches on the sandy barrier island stretching north and south from Thuan An.

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

There’s no better souvenir to bring home from Vietnam than being able to prepare your own Vietnamese feast. Indeed, Vietnamese food arguably has a bigger dinner-party cachet than more familiar Thai cuisine.

Up and down the country, you’ll find cooking courses that start with a fragrant market trip to buy fresh ingredients and local herbs and end with a banquet of the dishes you’ve prepared, covering everything from summer rolls to pho noodle soup.

Hoi An is the most popular destination for aspiring chefs – small and personal Green Bamboo Cooking School is highly recommended. There are also good cooking schools in Hue, Hanoi and HCMC.

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

While travelers mob the regal assembly halls, pagodas and historic homes of Hoi An, nearby My Son offers a calmer vision of Vietnam’s rich and layered past – particularly if you come in the afternoon. The big lure here is the atmospheric collection of UNESCO-listed Hindu temple ruins surrounded by jungle in a loop of the sacred Thu Bon river.

Sharing many architectural features with the Khmer temples of Cambodia and Thailand , these crumbling, red-brick shrines were built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Hindu kingdom of Champa, whose descendants – the Cham people – can still be found in pockets in central Vietnam. With only birdsong to disrupt the quiet, the site scores highly for atmosphere as well as history,

Detour: If you use Hoi An as a base for exploring My Son, set aside a day to explore the nearby Cham Islands , an impressive marine reserve whose granite islands are still inhabited by Cham people, most now followers of Islam.

Explore My Son effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

One of the world’s youngest faiths, the Cao Dai religion was founded in the Mekong Delta town of Tay Ninh in 1926, fusing elements of ancestor worship, folk religions, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Roman Catholicism, with the ultimate goal of freeing the soul from the endless cycle of reincarnation.

To explore its complex customs, head to the cathedral-like Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh. Inside, you’ll see weapon-toting statues, an all-seeing eye, and even a Communist-looking red star – the sect reveres, amongst other figures, Jesus Christ, Buddha, Mohammed and even French novelist Victor Hugo.

Planning tip: Visitors can enter the shrine to witness prayers four times a day; if you have time to kill before or after a visit, detour 15km (9.3 miles) northeast to Nui Ba Den mountain. You can take a gondola then hike to reach its summit cave temples, then whoosh back downhill on a luge-style slide.

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

Vietnam largely moves on two wheels, and a motorcycle is by far the most enjoyable way to explore the hill country of the northwest , even if it takes some courage to adjust to the driving conditions, the errant livestock, and the steep, winding roads. Rent a quality bike in Hanoi and pop your wheels on the train to Lao Cai, to avoid the nerve-jangling ride out of the capital.

Once you reach the heart of the hill country, you can rumble out to outlying villages far from the tourist crowds for epic views and nights in charming homestays run by members of Vietnam’s tribal minorities.

Planning tip: You’ll need an international driving permit to ride legally in Vietnam, and this is only available for some nationalities. Many travelers manage to rent a motorcycle without a permit, but if things go wrong, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance.

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

Modern-day Vietnam is moving on from conflict, but the battlefields from the American War still linger as a sobering reminder of what people had to go through to get to this point. Sites of American losses such as Hamburger Hill in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) are etched into the popular consciousness, but the wartime tunnels at Cu Chi near HCMC and Vinh Moc near Hue offer a glimpse of the Vietnamese experience, as ordinary people went to extraordinary lengths to resist the world’s greatest superpower.

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

The former French Hill station of Sapa is surrounded by mountains so impressive that French colonizers called them the “Tonkinese Alps,” and the surrounding villages of the H'Mong and Dao ethnic minorities have become popular destinations for hikers – and somewhat commercialized in the process.

For a taste of the scenic serenity that first drew travelers to these lush green hills, head instead to drier, calmer Bac Ha , or the trails and mountain roads around Ha Giang province, tucked against the border with China and seemingly sculpted by the hands of the gods. Stay in hospitable homestays and explore markets, peaceful stilt-house villages, French-era relics and soaring limestone pinnacles, away from the maddening crowds.

Planning tip: There's a lot of competition for the title of best vista in Vietnam but the lookouts gazing over the Dong Van Karst Plateau are strong contenders. The area is designated as a UNESCO Geopark, and the trip from Yen Minh to Dong Van and over the Mai Pi Leng Pass to Meo Vac is particularly spectacular.

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

It was the French colonizers who brought coffee from the Arabian peninsula to Vietnam, but it was the farmers of the Southwest Highlands who mastered the art of coaxing quality beans from these undulating hills. Rising to 1600m (5250ft), Dak Lak Province provides the perfect terroir for growing robusta beans, and the regional capital of Buon Ma Thuot is a great place to tour plantations and track down a quality cup of ca phe , particularly during the annual coffee festival in March. If you insist on arabica beans, head to Dalat and visit the community K'Ho Coffee cooperative, supporting local coffee growers from the K’Ho minority.

Planning tip: The best time to visit coffee country is from September to the end of December when the harvest season is in full swing and plantations are filled with baskets of red beans.

Transform your visit the Central Highlands by  booking with GetYourGuide.

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world’s largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing – a 747 airplane could fly through the cave’s main tunnel.

Parts of the limestone ceiling have collapsed, bringing in natural sunlight, so Hang Son Doong contains an entire rainforest ecosystem with flying foxes, rare langurs, and even a small population of tigers. Since 2012, one tour company – Oxalis Adventure – has been allowed to take a strictly limited number of visitors into Hang Son Doong on challenging four-day treks; the price is stratospheric but so is the scenery.

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

The former capital of South Vietnam may have changed its name from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) , but the past remains close to the surface, from the American War relics in the HCMC Museum and War Remnants Museum to the city’s elegant French-built mansions and civic buildings – many now housing museums, restaurants and boutique hotels.

To get a feel for vintage Saigon, stop for a cup of ca phe sua (milk coffee) at the elegant Hotel Continental Saigon , sample cutting-edge French cuisine at La Villa , and take a stroll past the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the People’s Committee Building – built as HCMC’s Hôtel de Ville but rebranded as the Vietnamese sent the colonizers packing.

Planning tip: To fully appreciate the marvelous, lip-tingling variety of HCMC street food, join a foodie-focused scooter tour with Saigon Street Eats .

Explore Ho Chi Minh City effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

It was the beaches of Phu Quoc Island and Danang – developed as a playground for GIs during the American War – that put Vietnam on the map for seaside vacations, but both have developed into lively resorts. To find unspoiled stretches of sand, modern-day castaways aim their sights at the kitesurfing beaches around Mui Ne , the island sands of the Con Dao archipelago and long, languorous Hong Van Beach on Co To Island in Bai Tu Long Bay .

Planning tip: The best time for a beach trip varies as you move around the country. In central Vietnam, skies are brightest from January to August, while December to April is the beach window on the south coast, and northern Vietnam sees plenty of dry days from October to April.

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

Reaching out into the East Sea like an enormous hand, the mighty Mekong Delta marks the end point of Southeast Asia’s longest river – a 4350km (2700 mile) monster, rising on the Tibetan plateau and emptying to the south of Ho Chi Minh City. This waterlogged wonderland is Vietnam’s rice bowl, nurturing a network of sleepy towns and stilt villages whose residents use the river as their primary artery for life and trade.

For comfortable exploring, book an overnight cruise along the main channel near Can Tho or a cross-border trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia. For a less commercial experience, take a day trip to the backwaters near Ben Tre with Mango Cruises or make your own arrangements with boat owners in Delta villages.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2021 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

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Best places to visit in May in Vietnam

• Updated: May 20, 2023 Tommy Ngo Vietnam Seasons and Climate 0 comment.

Vietnam is famous for the special and charming culture and customs, thanks to its long-lasting history. On your Vietnam discovery , you will have the opportunity to see the country’s sumptuous mountain scenes, white beaches with turquoise water, endless rice paddies, natural parks, tropical forest, majestic valleys, world famous natural sites, etc.

Cai Rang Floating Market, Mekong delta

Mai Chau – Hoa Binh

Mai Chau is an ideal destination for those who love nature or look for a peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle urban life. Only 2 hours getting from Hanoi by cars, Mai Chau valley is the home of the Thai ethnic group, mostly in Lac village, Van village … From above, this place looks like a watercolor painting with vastness of space between earth and sky, mountains and rivers. This is a must-visit destination on your trip to Northern Vietnam.

You can see in the photo is Thai’s pray for rain ceremony – Mai Chau District, Hoa Binh Province. Thai Festival for rain in Mai Chau is opened on the night of the red moon halo in March and April (lunar calendar). People are going to sing for rain and relay torch around the village.

Ha Long – Cat Ba  

This World Heritage Site is also known as the jewel of Vietnam tourist sites that will make your Vietnam family vacation a memorable experience with its majestic bay and mysterious caves. On your 2 days in Halong , you will have a chance to swim in the emerald green waters, discover the extraordinary landscape, enjoy the delicious seafood cooked and served by the skillful cooks while admiring one of the most beautiful and romantic natural sites in the world.

Cat Ba is an island connected to Halong Bay that has many fascinating sea caves. Here visitors can enjoy the fresh air and assimilate themselves into the beautiful nature.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang

Located 50km far from Dong Hoi town, Phong Nha – Tien Son has 13000 meter length including 14 beautiful caves formed by the underground river dissolving limestone such as Ca Ron cave, Dark cave and Dome cave… There are many beautiful stalactites hanging down at the entrance of the caves.

Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha Cave (also known as the wet cave) and Tien Son (also known as the dry cave) are at the same location. Visiting time takes approximately 3 hours for 1 cave and 4.5 hours for 2 caves. Sailing through these caves will provide an unforgettable impression to the tourists with natural landscapes of two majestic rivers with unique blue-green water on their Vietnam tour .

If Da Lat is “the Kingdom of Flowers” then Nha Trang is “the Heaven of Beaches”. On your Vietnam beach vacation , you can roam freely on the white sandy beach, drown in hot mineral springs and mud pools, get immersed in cool-air water of thousand rays. In addition, your children will have the chance to explore a lot of interesting outdoor games at Vinpearl Land. Also, your family can be hand in hand exploring the exciting world of water at Tri Nguyen Aquarium, breathing in the cool air falls Ta Gu, Yang Bay waterfall or learning of the mysterious of Ponagar tower.

Can Tho is famous for its white rice and fresh water that you cannot miss on your trip to Southern Vietnam . Here you can visit Cai Rang floating market with fruit orchards around the year. Especially when in summer, you can visit any garden and taste all the juicy fruits of the land. On the occasion of December and April fifteenth, there are 2 major festivals: Binh Thuy’s Temple celebration and Ha Dien & Thuong Dien ceremony.

Chau Doc – An Giang

Sam Mountain and other mountain regions belong to the Seven Mountains area. They are the scenic destinations in the Southwestern Vietnam’s border with Cambodia neighborhood. There are over 200 temples, pagodas and temples in this land. They are scattered at the foot of the mountain and on top of the ridge. On the top of the mountain remains a fortress built by the French.

From April to lower lunar annually, Seven Mountains area of An Giang province gets ever more crowded. Tourists come here to admire its famous landmarks and participate in the female God of Sam mountain ceremony. It is a national festival.

This year, the female God of Sam mountain ceremony is going to take place from 31/5 to 06/05 (Lunar calendar). The celebration includes many cultural activities such as the Easter show She statue; She bathing ceremony; appeal Shen Thoai Ngoc Hau identity ceremony, identity parade and all the Thoai Ngoc Hau’s wife and two of Thoai Ngoc Hau Tomb (Son tomb) on Temple. Following is the TucYet ceremony (character and conduct of offering worship) and feast on “Building flanking” opening for Hat Boi in Vo Ca of Temple; HoiSac and ChanhTe ceremony.

Hang Pagoda, also known as Phuoc Dien Tu, is located at Sam mountainside (Son Vinh Te), Chau Doc. Hang Pagoda presents the scenic beauty of An Giang province. It is one of the most famous national historical sites in Vietnam.

Best Vietnam tours for a vacation in May in Vietnam

• Saigon to Hanoi Highlights tour
• The Bustling South of Vietnam tour
• Treasures of Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi
• Vietnam Adventure and Eco Tour Combined
• Vietnam and Cambodia World Heritage Sites

Are you thinking about a trip to Vietnam in May? Which destinations do you have in mind? Let us know your ideas on the comment box below!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in 2022

Coming to the S-shaped country, you can admire the poetic and charming scenery wherever you go. The natural beauty and unique culture have made Vietnam become a tourist destination worldwide. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Vietnam nominated in 2022.

1. Ha Long Bay

Off Northeast Vietnam , Ha Long Bay was designated as one of the World Heritage Sites in 1994. For many reasons, Ha Long Bay has to be on your list when you travel to Vietnam.

Having been known for thousands of limestone islands that emerged from the emerald water, the bay is surrounded by a spectacular seascape. You will want to sign up for a boat trip to cruise along the maze of channels and uniquely shaped islets. You can also go kayaking and caving to experience the enchanting beauty of this wonderland.

Although it can get very touristy during the high season, with what it has to offer, Ha Long Bay is totally worth your visit.

The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is in the summer (May – October) when its weather is warm, less rain, convenient for outdoor activities and exploring.

2. Ninh Binh

Used to be one of the hidden gems in the north of Vietnam, Ninh Binh has become more and more popular among both local and foreign visitors after being chosen as the blockbuster Kong’s filming location. But Ninh Binh is not all about that.

This is home of one of the biggest temples in South East Asia (Bai Dinh Pagoda), which is solemnly situated amid the lush paddy fields and breathtaking rock formations. The best way to explore the renowned landscape complex is by rowboat to bit-by-bit take in the majestic and poetic scenery. Ninh Binh will truly give you a sense of the spiritual calmness coming from the splashing water under your boat and distant temple bells echoing.

You can visit Ninh Binh at any time of the year, each season in Ninh Binh has a unique beauty that is nowhere to be found.

Noted as another World Heritage Site of the long-stretching nation, the Ancient Town of Hoi An  carries not only the diversity of settings but also the history of hundreds of years of cultural interference between the three countries of China, Japan, and Vietnam. You will need to be ready to fall in love with the mix of vibrant lifestyle and ancient architecture of this little town.

Hoi An is also famous for a wide range of delightful cafes and restaurants of those overlooking peaceful views. Even for a local, the town’s delicacies are definitely one-of-a-kind, and it will give you a hard time picking among all the good food.

As the most beautiful city in Vietnam, Hoi An is crowded year-round, the tourist season starts from November to the end of February. If you want to enjoy a “real” Hoi An, April to June is the right time for you, when there are the least tourists.

Further north of Hoi An is a beautiful coastal city – Da Nang . Da Nang is a tropical sea paradise in Vietnam; it has some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches such as Non Nuoc Beach, which is almost never too busy. It would make you extend your staying here with its spectacular mountain temples, well-decorated bars and restaurants, and so much more. It is not random that many expats choose to relocate here as you can easily find a hint of the modern lifestyle of a big city blended into the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

If you are an adventurous soul, get on a motorbike and go for a road trip around Son Tra Peninsula, then set out to conquer the Hai Van Pass or simply walk the majestic  Golden Bridge .

The ideal time to visit Da Nang is the dry season from January to July, and the most perfect is between February and May. During this period, the weather is pleasant and less rain.

Hue  is the former imperial capital of Vietnam under the prosperous reign of the Nguyen Dynasty, which explains a rich collection of tombs, palaces, and royal buildings. That is also the highlight of this romantic city.

Strolling along the gorgeous Perfume River, crossing Trang Tien Bridge just to later sit down and take a sip of cold Huda beer.

Hue is definitely not a tourism hub but if you are keen on an atmosphere with a breadth of history, then Hue would be your perfect choice.

Located between the South and the North, Hue weather is characteristic of both regions. Hue has four seasons, but the most obvious are sunny and rainy seasons. The dry season lasts from March to August, it is quite bright and hot. From August to November is the rainy season. Especially from October onwards, there are prolonged rains and storms.

In 6th place, Sapa meets all the elements to become one of the best places to visit in Vietnam: the small villages like the picture painted on the majestic hills, upland markets, and the identity of ethnic minority communities.

Although the main town itself has been said to be too touristic and going through lots of construction, it gives you a reason to go out of town and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful highland cities in the country. Meeting up with the innocent local minority people and being amazed by terraced fields – breathtaking scenery will be your unforgettable memory.

Sapa is a mountainous region with a cool climate all year round. The weather in Sapa has four seasons. The average temperature of Sapa is 15 °C. Summer in Sapa is not too hot; winter is often cloudy and cold, and sometimes it snows.

The best time to visit Sapa is from September to early November, at this time, rice begins to ripen, and the scenery of Sapa turns to the brilliant golden colour of the rice, a picturesque view.

7. Nha Trang

As one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Vietnam , Nha Trang has been recognized as a tropical sea paradise. Not only do long blue beaches and dozens of large and small islands remain untouched, but Nha Trang is also an ideal destination for those who love culture – history as it is also the land of the flourishing Champa Kingdom in the past.

Visit Nha Trang, immerse yourself in the refreshing water, dive down to the coral reefs, discover islands by canoe, and enjoy fresh seafood.

The most significant advantage of this city is the long sunny season during the first eight months, the temperature difference is not considerable. The rainy season of Nha Trang lasts from September to December and reaches its peak in October and November.

Nha Trang is definitely an indispensable name when it comes to the best places to visit in Vietnam.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

When talking about the best places to visit in Vietnam, it’s impossible to ignore the biggest city in the country: Ho Chi Minh City .

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the most developed and somehow chaotic city across the country once known as the Pearl of the Far East. Although Saigon is not rich in natural resources, it has a wide range of street food and nightlife activities to choose from.

And if your heart is up for knowledge, there is a list of museums and galleries scattered around the city so you can check them out and explore the city at the same time.

Chinatown is also the soul of the dynamic city filled with century-aged temples and shops – where you can give yourself a break after play-hard days. It is no exaggeration to say that Saigon has it all.

Ho Chi Minh City weather does not have four seasons like Hanoi but only two: rainy and dry. The rainy season is from May to November. In general, you can visit Ho Chi Minh City at any time of the year, the rainy season is also the most beautiful season of this city.

It is always worth visiting the capital city of any country. In  Hanoi , your mind will be blown away by the subtly busy Old Quarter – 36 Streets. You will live the historic moments walking along Long Bien Bridge.

You will love every single second of riding around Truc Bach Lake and finding yourself a good coffee spot to sit down and enjoy a hot egg coffee. And when the sun goes down, get yourself to the Main Cathedral, sit on those red stools and join the locals for lemon tea and sunflower seeds.

Hanoi is one of the few places in Vietnam that has four seasons. Because of the characteristics of a humid monsoon tropical country, Hanoi’s climate in the winter and summer is quite harsh. The winter in Hanoi is so cold; sometimes the temperature drops deeply below 10 °C, meanwhile, the summer is very hot, sometimes stormy. According to the experiences of many travellers, you should visit this city in the autumn.

Mui Ne is another coastal city to add to your list. Unlike any other beaches, Mui Ne is a paradise for those into extreme water sports. You can do from snorkeling, diving to surfing and parachuting. Riding past miles of white and red stunning sandhills on one side and feeling the ocean breeze blowing from the sea from the other side, you will know why this destination keeps popping up in travel conversations. And of course, live seafood is freshly brought to restaurants from the fishing boats will fulfill your visit.

Mui Ne is not only good for motorbike trips but also the best place across the country for water sports. November to April is the windy season making it perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Other activities such as parasailing, kayaking, and motorboating can also be spotted. Make sure you eat at one of the food stalls set on the beach for an unforgettable dining experience.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Time to Visit Vietnam: Weather, Festivals, and Top Activities

Vietnam is a country of mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Planning the perfect trip requires understanding the best time to visit Vietnam, as this charming nation experiences diverse weather patterns, hosts numerous festivals, and offers a plethora of activities year-round. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to ensure your Vietnamese adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.

Understanding Vietnam’s Climate and Weather Patterns

Vietnam stretches across three distinct regions – the North, Central, and South – each with its unique climate and weather patterns. Knowing the seasonal variations is crucial to planning your trip:

North Vietnam

In Northern Vietnam, which encompasses Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay, the climate is characterized by four distinct seasons:

• Winter (December to February): Expect cool and dry weather with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. This is the best time to explore Hanoi and the rice terraces in Sapa.
• Spring (March to April): Spring brings mild weather and blossoming flowers. It’s an excellent time for trekking in Sapa and cruising in Ha Long Bay.
• Summer (May to August): This period is hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 32°C. Frequent rain showers occur, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers pleasant weather with moderate temperatures. It’s the perfect season for sightseeing and enjoying the scenic landscape.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam, which includes cities like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue, also experiences four distinct seasons but with varying intensities:

• Winter (December to February): Mild and relatively dry weather with temperatures around 20°C. A great time to explore historical sites in Hue and the ancient town of Hoi An.
• Spring (March to May): Pleasant, warm weather conducive for beach activities in Da Nang and exploring Hoi An.
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 35°C, but perfect for beach lovers. Typhoons may occasionally affect travel plans.
• Autumn (September to November): This season is rainy due to the monsoon, but temperatures remain comfortable around 25°C to 30°C.

South Vietnam

Southern Vietnam, home to Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island, has a tropical climate with two primary seasons:

• Dry Season (December to April): The best time to visit with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C and little to no rain, ideal for exploring Ho Chi Minh City and island hopping in Phu Quoc.
• Rainy Season (May to November): Frequent downpours and higher humidity levels, with temperatures between 24°C and 31°C. However, the Mekong Delta looks lush and green during this time.

Festivals and Events in Vietnam

Vietnam’s culture is vibrant and diverse, with numerous festivals celebrated throughout the year. Attending these festivals can add excitement and insight into your trip.

Tet (Lunar New Year)

Tet is the most important festival in Vietnam, celebrated in late January or early February. The entire country comes alive with traditional customs, colorful decorations, and family reunions. Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are adorned with flower markets and street parades.

• Traditional Foods: Banh Chung (Square Sticky Rice Cake), Gio Lua (Vietnamese Ham)
• Activities: Lion dances, visiting pagodas, and family gatherings

Mid-Autumn Festival

Held in September, the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated with lantern parades, mooncakes, and lion dances. It’s a time for children and families to come together and enjoy various cultural activities.

• Traditional Foods: Mooncakes, fruits
• Activities: Lantern parades, lion dances, and performances

Hue Festival

The Hue Festival takes place in April biennially, celebrating the history and culture of the ancient capital of Hue. It features traditional music performances, dragon boat races, and reenactments of royal ceremonies.

• Traditional Foods: Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup), Che (Sweet Soup)
• Activities: Music performances, boat races, and traditional games

Hoi An Lantern Festival

On the 14th day of every lunar month, Hoi An hosts the Lantern Festival. The old town shuts off its electric lights, and the streets are lit with colorful lanterns. Traditional music and games add to the charm.

• Traditional Foods: Cao Lau (Noodle Dish), Banh Bao Vac (White Rose Dumplings)
• Activities: Releasing lanterns on the river, traditional games

Top Activities to Enjoy in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a range of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking to relax, there’s something for everyone.

Trekking in Sapa

Sapa, located in the northern mountains, is famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority communities. The best time for trekking in Sapa is between March and May, or September to November, when the weather is favorable, and the landscapes are stunning.

Exploring Ha Long Bay

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and limestone islands. The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is between October and April, when the weather is cool and dry. Activities include cruising, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Relaxing on Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and clear waters. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing on the island’s beautiful beaches.

Exploring the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a unique region with a vast network of rivers, floating markets, and lush landscapes. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April. Activities include boat tours, visiting fruit orchards, and experiencing local life.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on August 18, 2024

A long, narrow country squeezed in between the South China Sea and the Laos and Cambodia borders, Vietnam is a land of striking landscapes that range from the lush rice terraces and forested mountains in the north to the picturesque valleys of the Central Highlands and the fertile delta and beautiful beaches of the south.

Vietnam has seen its fair share of struggles. Ruled for almost a thousand years by various Chinese dynasties until 938 AD, Vietnam became a French protectorate in the 19th century. After independence, there was the Vietnam War.

Today, Vietnam is a proud country and you can see why. Not just for fiercely defending its own independence, but for its incredible landscapes and history.

The first words on everyone’s lips when speaking of Vietnam are undoubtedly Halong Bay, a beautiful set of karst islands and formations off the northern coast. Hanoi is the bustling, motorbike filled capital. Plan your trip to this beautiful Southeast Asia travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

17. Da Nang

Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang is an energetic coastal city with a historic French colonial port.

It is known primarily for its fantastic beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach , which Tripadvisor has named as one of the best beaches in Asia.

However, it is also a popular starting point for exploration of the Bà Nà hills , which lie on the city’s western reaches. From there, the spectacular Hải Vân Pass showcases incredible views of Da Nang Bay. Moreover it conveys the Marble Mountains , five imperious limestone outcrops crowned with ornate pagodas and yield caves containing lavish Buddhist shrines.

Da Nang boasts impressive landmarks like the iconic Dragon Bridge , world-class golf courses, and a modern skyline dotted with luxury resorts and upscale shopping centres.

The city is also home to many cultural experiences, including the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture and Da Nang Fine Arts Museum.

16. Ha Giang Loop

If you pride yourself on being an adventurous traveler, then you should embrace the Ha Giang Loop with open arms.

Located in the remote and breathtaking Ha Giang province , tourists can embark on a thrilling motorbike journey through some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This scenic loop takes you on a winding road that cuts through majestic mountains, lush valleys and terraced rice fields.

The journey provides an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with the authentic culture of the ethnic minority communities that call this region home.

Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional villages , where locals showcase their rich heritage, colorful attire, and warm hospitality.

The loop offers stunning viewpoints such as Ma Pi Leng Pass , with its jaw-dropping vistas of the Nho Que River snaking through the mountains. You can also visit attractions like Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Geopark, and the fairy-tale-like Lung Cu Flag Tower.

Typically, this journey takes three to four days to complete. Its rugged beauty and remote nature are perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

15. Bai Tu Long Bay

If you can’t get to or don’t fancy visiting Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is an excellent alternative. Situated in the northeastern part of Vietnam, it has all the pristine beauty and untouched landscapes of its more illustrious neighbor, only with greater tranquillity and fewer crowds.

The picturesque bay is characterized by its emerald waters, towering limestone islands , and lush vegetation. Cruising through it provides fabulous opportunities for kayaking , swimming and visiting remote fishing villages.

The bay is also home to a diverse ecosystem accommodating rare wildlife, colourful coral reefs and hidden caves waiting for you to discover them.

A tour of the area allows for a more intimate connection with nature and a chance to experience the serenity of the surroundings. Whilst there, be sure to visit the incredible Thien Canh Son Cave . One of 59 discovered caves in the area, it will wow you with its unique stalactite formations.

14. Tam Coc

Tam Coc, often called ‘ Halong Bay on land ‘, is an enchanting destination in the Ninh Binh province.

Forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage Tràng An scenic landscape site, it is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts that dramatically rise out of emerald green rice fields. Tam Coc presents visitors with a stunning natural landscape that will forever leave an impression on their heart.

The main attraction in Tam Coc is a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River , where local rowers skilfully navigate through a series of caves and limestone formations. As you glide along the tranquil waterways, you’ll be mesmerized by the picturesque scenery and the harmonious blend of nature and verdant rice paddies.

Tam Coc is also home to ancient temples and pagodas, such as Bich Dong Pagoda , which is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

If you are into cycling, you can also explore the area in more detail on two wheels.

There are several places in Vietnam where you can go for some beach R&R, but few can compare to the sheer beauty of Mũi Né.

A stunning beach resort town along the southeast coastline, it boasts a long stretch of golden palm-tree-lined sand, perfect for walking and sunbathing. During the dry season, with steady wind conditions, the area becomes a fantastic destination for sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The highlight of Mui Né is undoubtedly its captivating sand dunes . The iconic White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes offer a surreal landscape that resembles a desert oasis. On our last visit, we explored the dunes on an ATV ride and sand boarded down the slopes. Both were a lot of fun!

Beyond the beaches and dunes, Mui Né offers opportunities to explore nearby fishing villages , taste delicious seafood, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Close by, The Fairy Stream, with its gently flowing water and unique rock formations, is a popular spot for a refreshing dip on a stiflingly hot day.

Year-round cool weather and idyllic scenery of misty valleys, lush pine trees and colorful flowers are some of the reasons that Dalat was once used by Vietnamese emperors and French colonials as a summer retreat. Today, this charming town in the South Central Highlands of Vietnam is a popular destination for honeymooners, weekend getaways and for those looking for relief from the heat.

A walkable city, Dalat is a beautiful scene of French colonial architecture and villas set amid picturesque landscapes. The city is well known for its royal palaces that were owned by the last emperor of Vietnam. These lovely palaces are open for tours as is the Hang Nga Guesthouse, the city’s most bizarre attraction. Informally called the “Crazy House,” this structure is a fantastical construction with caves, spider webs and shapes of animals and mushrooms.

Dalat’s lively market is a great place to find fruits, flowers and vegetables grown in the local area as well as handicrafts and silk embroidered items.

Outside the city are scenic lakes, flower gardens, plantations and mountains offering pretty waterfalls and trails for hiking and mountain biking. A must-do is the Valley of Love, an incredibly beautiful valley with pine forests and lakes where tourists can enjoy pedal-boating and canyoning.

Located on the central coast of Vietnam near the Duy Phú village is the important archaeological site known as My Son . One of Southeast Asia’s most notable heritage sites, My Son was once a significant center of religious Hindu ceremonies where the kings of the Champa Kingdom built numerous temples devoted to the worship of the god, Shiva, between the 4th and 14th centuries.

Believed to have once contained more than 70 temples that were constructed with brick and decorative carvings and sculptures bearing scenes of animals, priests, gods, mythical battles and inscriptions of Sanskrit and Champa, My Son today features a complex of ruins in varying states of disarray and repair, all arranged in several groups.

Within the site is a museum where visitors can check out exhibits and artifacts to better understand and appreciate the ruins. Near the entrance of My Son are a few cafes, food vendors and a shop selling souvenirs. At certain times of the day, visitors can watch live Champa dance performances. Additionally, the site is surrounded by jungle, hills and a lake where visitors can enjoy hiking and kayaking.

My Son is often reached by organized tour groups from Hoi An. However, visitors can also arrive at My Son by motorbike rentals.

10. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a scenic island in the Gulf of Thailand. While it officially forms part of Vietnam, it is actually closer geographically to Cambodia . Today, it’s characterized by dense tropical jungle, soft sandy beaches, and undulating hills. But the island has a fascinating history, having served first as a French missionary base and then as a French colonial wartime prison – a gloomy reformatory that you can visit today.

History aside, the island is most tempting for its alluring tropical nature . Days in Phu Quoc are spent sunbathing on sandy beaches, scootering around fishing villages, visiting pearl and pepper farms, and, if you’re up for it, trekking to waterfalls.

An island that’s famous for its seafood, don’t miss an opportunity to try out Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce (nuoc mam) – you can even visit one of the fish sauce factories while you’re here!

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Tucked away in the Quang Binh Province in Vietnam’s Central Coast region, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the most picturesque parts of the country. With a steadfast reputation as a filming location for 2017 Kong: Skull Island, and with a nearby international airport, the national park is more popular than ever before.

Opened to the public in 2010, the appeal of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the escape from the city. Here, you’ll live life in the slow lane as you cycle through Kong jungles at your own pace.

Home to 400 million-year-old karst mountains, there are hundreds of caves and secretive rivers to explore. The Son Doong Cave is a must visit. Home to its very own hidden jungle, microclimate, and Underground River, it’s one of the largest caves on Earth .

Due to its location near the Laos border, access to the park is strictly controlled, and visitors can expect to find a strong military presence here. This is mainly due to its war history – the park has some of the world’s highest numbers of undetonated bombs, which is why visitors can only visit this place with a licensed tour guide.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh, formerly known as Saigon , is the biggest city in all of Vietnam. It’s also the old capital of the Republic of Vietnam. When Saigon fell to the north in 1975, it was renamed to HCMC, yet its former name is still used today, particularly when describing the beating heart of the city.

Hoi Chi Minh has a bit of everything – temples, museums, parks, and tourist shopping. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something to do here. Head to the top of the Saigon Skydeck for an astonishing 360-degree view of the city – especially impressive at night when the lights twinkle on below.

History buffs should not miss the chance to explore the mysterious network of the Cu Chi tunnels , the headquarters for many military operations during the Vietnam War.

The five stories of Reunification Palace – also known as the Independence Palace – is also a fascinating place to go. It’s a famous spot in Vietnam’s history as it captures the time when Saigon fell as a tank broke through the gates of the palace. A replica of this same tank can be seen on the grass outside the palace.

If you’re curious to learn more about the war, you’ll enjoy a visit to the War Remnants Museum or the Museum of Vietnamese History.

7. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam,’ is a lush network of waterways in Vietnam known for its excellent nutrient-rich soils and diverse ecosystems – the banks are a veritable patchwork of fruit, vegetables, rice plantations and cattle farms that provide sustenance for more than a third of the country.

This impressive stretch of river frontage is the most biodiverse in the world if you don’t count the Amazon. Taking up much of the south of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is an extraordinary place filled with lily pad waterways, rice paddies, mangroves, and enchanting wildlife.

With plenty of bus connections and motorbikes, tourists can explore the Mekong Delta and its towns like Tra Vinh , which is considered one of the prettiest villages of the delta. A boat trip down the tranquil tributaries and mangroves of the Mekong is an unforgettable experience.

Paddled by a local in a wooden canoe, you’ll be able to witness everyday life on the river, passing farmlands, fruit orchards, monkey bridges, water buffalo, and floating markets . The best time to visit the Mekong is during the dry season between December and May when there’s less chance of flooding.

6. Nha Trang

If it’s beaching you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam, with a laidback atmosphere and exceptional scuba diving. While it’s certainly not on the same scale as many of Asia’s other beautiful beaches , Nha Trang offers warm water and some picturesque offshore islets.

The promenade that encircles the beachfront is always a hive of activity, filled with parks and sculptures that make a stroll here interesting. As with most beach resorts, most of the activity gets going when the sun goes down, and Nha Trang is no different. You’ll find a host of vibey bars and restaurants near the beachfront.

There’s much more to Nha Trang than sunbathing and strolls, though. Go for a soak in the Thap Ba Mud Bath or take a ride on the longest cross-sea cable car in the world. The sacred Po Nagar Cham towers, dating back to the 7th to 12th centuries, offer a taste of the city’s history – they’re an active religious site for Cham, Chinese, and Buddhists even today.

Tracing the border with China, Sapa is a captivating remote town in the Hoang Lien Son mountains of northern Vietnam. Its elevation 1,500 meters above sea level is nothing to scoff at when you’re trekking the terraced hills and slopes around this high-altitude mountain town. While there’s plenty of natural beauty to tempt you to this far-reached corner of the country, much of Sapa’s appeal lies in its raw and authentic culture.

Days are spent trekking through rice paddies , rural villages untouched by tourism, and the clouds of Fansipan – Vietnam’s highest peak.

Scenery aside, the highlight is hands down the opportunity to chat with these fascinating people along the way – local kids will tag along and try to sell you some of their handmade jewelry or simply try to improve their English by speaking to you.

In the town of Sapa itself, there are attractive French colonial sites worth visiting such as the Gothic church, the town square and city hall. Sapa is a major market town where the various ethnic tribes in the area often gather to sell their handicrafts, which make excellent souvenirs. At the Sapa Culture Museum, visitors can learn all about the history and cultures of these ethnic groups.

Hue – formerly known as the Panduranga of Cham Kingdom – was once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Located in the central region, Hue had a huge role to play in the Vietnam War. Captured by the Viet Cong for a total of 24 days, thousands of people were killed here if they were thought to be sympathizers of the south.

Today, the city is split in two by the Perfume River. The old city with its ancient ruined citadel lies to the north and the modern-day city to the south. The Demilitarized Zone, which marks the official former border, is one of the most popular day trips from Hue while the Thien Mu Pagoda is the city’s official symbol.

Of the city’s monuments , the Citadel is the most famous. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, the Citadel is a sprawling complex of grand palaces, ornate temples, walls and gates. Prime attractions within the Citadel are the Forbidden Purple City, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Ngo Mon Gate. Another important landmark on the river is the city’s official symbol, the Thien Mu Pagoda.

A stroll along the promenade is also recommended, through the statue-abundant parks and onwards by scooter or boat cruise to the Tombs of the Emperors on the outskirts of the city. Dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, the Tomb of Tu Doc, with its striking Buddhist architecture is the cherry on top.

Laidback and charismatic with a charm all of its own, Hoi An is the highlight of any Vietnam itinerary. Located south of Da Nang within cycling distance of some excellent warm-water beaches along the central coast, this atmospheric old town is a feast of color, where bright and cheerful lanterns adorn each and every building.

The narrow, winding lanes of the old town are lined with beautiful historic buildings, Chinese temples and wooden-fronted shops with excellent opportunities for retail therapy. The bustling night market and lantern-lit streets are also great places for shopping and people-watching.

At the same time, you can also take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River or join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Wrangle a tempting spa deal, and get a dress or tailored suit handmade for you at one of the town’s many illustrious tailors.

Don’t leave without a visit to the gorgeous Japanese Covered Bridge and the glaze-roofed Chinese merchant houses that date back hundreds of years and house a quarter of the town’s population. There’s plenty to fill your afternoons in Hoi An.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is truly chaotic, but that’s all part of its charm. An interesting mix of French and Sino-Vietnamese influences, it’s one of the most rapidly growing cities in Southeast Asia.

Those visiting this energetic capital should be prepared. It’s a hive of activity at the best of times, utter chaos at the worst – a city where crossing the road could be taking your life into your own hands with cars, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks vying for right of way in a city without road rules.

One of the best places to experience the madness of Hanoi is at Legend’s Corner . The well-located Legend Beer restaurant is the ideal spot to sit with a drink and watch the rush hour insanity just before sunset. You’ll see pedestrians, dogs, cars, tuk-tuks, and scooters all entwined in traffic, yet somehow there are very few accidents.

Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets filled with charming colonial architecture, street vendors, and bustling markets. The best way to explore it is on foot or by cyclo (cycle rickshaw). This will enable you to soak up its atmosphere and discover hidden gems like the ancient Temple of Literature or the vibrant Dong Xuan Market.

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

For a change of pace, go for a stroll around the freshwater Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the Old Quarter or soak up more Vietnamese history with a visit to the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the final resting place of the Revolutionary leader and Vietnamese President, is a must-see.

1. Ha Long Bay

Located about 130 km (80 miles) east of Hanoi in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is celebrated for its gorgeous emerald-hue waters, thousands of spectacular limestone karsts, astonishing waterside caves, and beautiful tree-topped islands.

It’s a popular location for adventure – scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing can all be enjoyed in and around Cat Ba National Park . For those who wish to simply relax and enjoy the views, there are numerous Halong Bay cruises to choose from, from basic to top-level luxury.

The thousands of islands scattered about the bay are a real mixture, ranging from isolated landmasses home to free-roaming monkeys and antelope to bigger inhabited islands with some fantastic beaches . Boat cruises are the best way to experience the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay.

With hundreds of boats ranging from traditional Chinese junks to luxury cruisers, boat tours can vary from day trips to multiple-night journeys . These tours often provide meals, nightlife activities and excursion stops where islands, caves and lagoons can be explored. Most boat cruises are arranged either from Hanoi or from ports such as Haiphong, Halong City and Cai Rong.

As with most holidays on the water, Halong Bay is easily affected by the weather. Plan your trip between March and June to get the most out of your visit. June to September is the off-season, so you can usually get some great deals – just be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast as monsoons can really put a dampener on your trip.

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Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

I hereby compose a key-word list of outstanding places in Vietnam. Hope it’s helpful for you guys searching.

1. Islands: Côn Đảo ; Phú Quốc ; Lý Sơn, Cam Ranh, Bình Ba, Bình Hưng, Điệp Sơn ,Đảo Yến Hòn Nội, ,Cù lao Chàm , Đảo Nam Du, Hòn ông đảo cá voi, Cát bà.

2. Best beaches on islands Bãi Nhát ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Suối Nóng ( Côn Đảo ), Hòn Cao ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Sao ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi Khem ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi ông Lăng ( Phu Quoc ) , Nam Du ( Phu Quoc ), Dao Be ( Ly son ) , Bai Kinh ( Binh Hung), Bai Nom ( Binh Ba ),

3. Coastal Cities : Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau.

4. Best beaches on coastal cities: Doc Let, Dai Lanh, My Khe, Nha Trang, Ky Co, Bãi Binh Tien, Bãi Cà ná, Bãi bắc beach da nang, quy nhon beach.

5. Best Bays Ha Long Bay, Lang Co bay, Nha Trang bay, Ninh Van bay, Van Phong bay, Cam Ranh bay.

6. Highland cities/town offer great mountain views, trekking activities : Sapa, Da Lat, Ha Giang, Cao bang.

7. Ancient cities/towns : Hoi An, Dong Van, Hue

8. Caves: Phong Nha, Thien duong, Son Doong, Hang En, Hang Sung Sot, Hang Va, He thong hang dong Tu Lan, Tam Coc bich dong

9. Rivers Mekong delta, Sông Ngô Đồng, Tràng An, Sông đáy chùa hương, Sông Son, Sông Nho Quế, Sông Chày.

10. Waterfall Thác Bản Giốc, Thác Voi, Thác Pongour

11. Lakes Hồ Ba bể, Hồ Xuân Hương, Hồ Tuyền Lâm, Hồ Tơ Nưng, Hồ Lắk, Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, Hồ Thác Bà, Phá Tam Giang.

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

13. National Parks Phong Nha ke bang, Nam Cát Tiên, Bạch Mã, Cúc Phương, Ba Vì, Ba Bể, Tràm Chim Tam Nông, núi chúa.

14. Terraces rice field Mù Căng Chải, Hoàng Su Phì, Tú Lệ , Sapa, Y Tý, Bát Xát, Pù Luông.

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

I like Vietnam. I really do. I love their culture and traditions. Just recently I went on a trip to Vietnam and I absolutely loved it. The people there were so nice and lovely. The wildlife, vegetation and sacred places were amazing too. But I have to say, the most beautiful place that I went to in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay. The scene was incredibly stunning! I also stayed in Sapa. It has astonishing views. Especially when you look at it from a distance. It has fog surrounding the buildings, has tall mountains in the background and has brightly coloured buildings. It’s breathtakingly beautiful!

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

I am a Vietnamese and according to my experience, there are two places you should visit when you are in Vietnam: Cat Ba Island in the Northeast Vietnam and Phu Quoc Island in the Southeast Vietnam.

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

I think these places are amazing to visit but I have a question, how is Vietnam in general? Is it a safe country to visit ??

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

I recommend Pu Luong nature reserve, not very far from Hanoi.

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

Great list. I have just spent two months in Vietnam and did most of the places except My Son and Sapa. Will come back for that. Love this country!

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

There are lots of day trip activities from Hoi An– snorkeling or diving at the Cham Islands, early morning cycling trips to the countryside, visiting the My Son archeological ruins. Hoi An also has terrific food, and is a great place to wander around and explore.

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

There are at-least 30 incredible places to visit in Vietnam, your list is correct those are about the top places but there are alot more amazing places in Vietnam and no one should stop at just 10

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

Great places. You can also put Ninh Binh and Ha Giang.

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12 best places to visit in Vietnam on your next trip

Enjoy hanoi and halong bay — then step beyond the tourist trail to find more magic in the highlands, islands, history and culture of this captivating nation.

W ith 99 million souls and a coastline that wrinkles 2,000 miles along the country from north to south, there are plenty of people to meet and a lot to see, do and eat in Vietnam. I first visited in 2004 and have returned many times since. It’s easy to follow the tourist trail of historic Hanoi, ethereal Halong Bay, shopping emporium Hoi An and buzzy Ho Chi Minh City, but push a little further and you’ll be rewarded with some dazzling and memorable experiences.

Mine have been when I’ve gone the extra mile, quite literally: a magical three-day cruise to the outer battlements of Halong Bay; a thrilling motorbike trip through the sugarloaf peaks and beyond in remote mountainous Ha Giang; meeting the last wild elephant catcher in Yok Don National Park. Taking in the elaborate mausoleums and sites of Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty deepened my understanding; sighting the endemic, critically endangered Cat Ba langur on Cat Ba island was exciting; and I loved exploring the history, food and pristine beaches of Con Dao island. And of course the irresistible, fragrant food, delicious coffee, craft cocktails and beer will lead you everywhere.

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If you only have . . .

One week Hanoi, a boat trip to Halong Bay and the rice fields of the Mai Chau Valley

Two weeks After Hanoi, Halong Bay and Mai Chau, hop on trains and domestic flights to visit imperial Hue, the DMZ, the ruins of My Son, gorgeous Hoi An and energetic Ho Chi Minh City

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Three weeks Take in Ha Giang in the far north, Dalat in the Central Highlands or the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a beach break, and a boat trip along the Mekong Delta or a couple of days on remote Con Dao island

A tight budget Balance domestic flights with long-distance train journeys and Vietnam’s excellent network of hop-on hop-off “open tickets” on air-conditioned minibuses

Hanoi is noisy, traffic-choked and beautiful all at once. The thousand-year-old city of lakes, founded on a bend of the Red River, is full of history, charm, museums, shops, markets and wonderful street food. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, the heart of the city, where you’ll find lots of food, hotels and temples cheek-by-jowl with shops. Learn how to dodge the motorbikes while on a street-food tour or exploring the ochre-hued French colonial villas, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the “Hanoi Hilton” prison museum of Hoa Lo and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Make it happen

The Sofitel Legend Metropole is where Graham Greene stayed in 1951 while working for Paris Match . It’s the city’s top address and is elegant throughout

• Read our full review of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Exodus’ 14-day Vietnam Adventure takes in two full days in Hanoi with a comprehensive city tour

2. Ha Giang

Ha Giang is Vietnam ’s northernmost region, pushing up against the border with China. It’s an otherworldly landscape of sugarloaf peaks, mountain passes and rice paddies carved into impossibly steep mountains. Find villages of Red Dzao, Flower Hmong and other local minorities, markets, eco-stays and a window into a rural world of timeless traditions such as weaving. Don’t miss the palace of the Hmong king who raked in revenue from opium farming. En route, stop at the dazzling rice paddy region of Mu Cang Chai.

Panhou Retreat, up in the mountains, is a peaceful nature resort with bungalows dotted amid the trees, a spa, and hot springs

Inside Asia’s 11-day Vietnam’s Northern Soul is an in-depth exploration of the region taking in trekking, rice paddies, tea terraces, markets and visits to remote villages

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3. Pu Luong and Mai Chau

Not too far from Hanoi are these idyllic retreats found amid neon-green rice paddies. At Pu Luong nature reserve, with its homestays and eco-retreats, trek past the paddies and orchards of the Muong people and cruise down a river on a traditional bamboo raft in a landscape woven with traditional water wheels. This area is home to rare Asian black bear, Owston’s palm civet and endangered Delacour’s langur. North is the exceptionally beautiful Mai Chau Valley, a serene landscape carved in rice paddies. Stay at the lovely Avana Retreat, built by local Hmong, White Thai and Black Thai people.

Avana Retreat is built and staffed by local people. Its beautiful thatched rooms blend with the rippling contours of rice paddies

G Adventures’ 11-day Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay and trekking Pu Luong tour is one of few that takes in trekking in Pu Luong, an overnight stay, and a barbecue lunch made by local chefs

4. Bai Tu Long Bay, Halong Bay

Boats — from junks to elegant luxury vessels — cruise through the waters of Unesco-protected Halong Bay, which is studded with thousands of craggy limestone outcrops. It’s an ethereal landscape and with each turn of weather can bring dense fog or crisp blue skies. It won’t matter — it’s all enchanting. To make the most of it, head out on a boat for at least two nights to cruise to the outer “fortress” of towers — Bai Tu Long Bay. It’s more magical and it escapes the crowds of one-day and one-night boats.

Bhaya’s Au Co Cruise sails to the outer reaches of the silent bay with wonderful close-up views, smart bedrooms and delicious, artfully presented cuisine

Audley’s 19-day Classic Vietnam tour includes two nights on the Paradise Sails boat exploring the limestone stacks and coves of the outer limits of the bay

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5. Hue and the DMZ

Hue was the cultural and political power base of the Nguyen emperors, Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty. They built a citadel, gilded in bronze, enamel and lacquer, with gates for themselves, elephants and their minions, based on the Forbidden City of Beijing. They lived in extravagant regal splendour surrounded by concubines and eunuchs. And they fashioned their last resting places, all gothic-meets-Confucius and geomantic in design, landscaped with streams, statues and elaborate graves that trace the serpentine route of Hue’s Perfume River. This city is often overlooked in favour of Hoi An as a central Vietnam stop, but don’t miss it. The thousand-plus dishes of the imperial household are still eaten, too. From here, explore the Demilitarized Zone marking the border established in 1954 between the communist north and the US-backed south.

Pilgrimage Village Boutique and Spa is an exquisite address just outside the historic centre of Hue. Think garden rooms, leafy plots, a spa and a perfect oblong pool

Original Travel’s 12-day An intro to Vietnam, North to South includes an in-depth tour of Hue’s imperial past as well as other significant buildings

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6. Danang and China beach

China beach, an 18-mile curve of golden sand along the sea, was made famous by thousands of American GIs who would sunbathe here for R&R during the Vietnam War. Today, it’s more fabulous, with some top hotel retreats, such as the Four Seasons and, hidden amid the forest of monkeys on a small peninsula, the outstanding InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula designed by Asia-based architect Bill Bensley. But there’s more — the incomparable Museum of Cham Sculpture with its beautiful carved sandstone works, the nearby Unesco-protected ruins of My Son, the spiritual capital of the Cham, an Indianised culture, and Danang’s fire-breathing Dragon Bridge.

Architect Bill Bensley has weaved his magic on the glamorous InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula. Come for the cute funicular, the pool villas and the restaurant

Explore’s 14-day Inside Vietnam is one of few tours taking in the Cham museum, the My Son ruins and an optional visit to My Lai, site of a wartime massacre

• Five of the best backpacking routes in southeast Asia

Yes, it’s touristy, but that’s because it’s gorgeous. The ancient port of Hoi An is filled with Chinese temples, large merchant houses, and hundreds of tailors and craft shops. One-storey ochre-coloured homes line the small lantern-lit streets along the Unesco-protected town’s Thu Bon river. Come for the atmosphere, tailor-made clothes, and the delicious street food including some tantalising local dishes. Nearby An Bang beach provides downtime, too.

The Four Seasons Nam Hai is a sublime beachfront property. Large, gorgeous villas dot the peaceful gardens, where pools and coconut palms facing the sea

Wendy Wu’s 12-day Vietnam at a Glance ensures time spent immersed in Hoi An, meeting artisans and visiting a farming village — plus plenty left for tailoring

8. Ninh Van Bay

Ninh Van Bay is a divine little hideaway close to the major seaside resort of Nha Trang. Escape from the city to this peninsula, just north, for some serious beach time. An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay is dreamy with a boho vibe, while Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is on a sublime stretch of sand with villas tucked away between and behind huge boulders. It’s just you, the beach, the restaurant and your butler at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. The waterfalls and forests of the peninsula can be explored too.

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a barefoot getaway with villas and their private pools perched on huge biscuit-coloured boulders facing the sea. It’s boho, supremely beautiful and comes with butler service

Scott Dunn’s 11-night luxury Limitless Vietnam indulges with four nights at Ninh Van Bay and organised activities

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Dalat is a quirky place. A former French hill station up in the pine-scented highlands with a central lake, it’s ringed by attractive early 20th-century homes and villas (some hotels, some museums), markets, flower gardens and waterfalls. There’s even a golf course. Today, the city is filled with bars and cute cafés and is a great base from which to explore a load of kooky spots including the Crazy House homestay, cactus and coffee playground Kombi Land and a dragon statue made from thousands of glass bottles. Don’t miss checking out the French-built railway station, a Wes Anderson shoo-in.

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa is a cute little hilltop hotel fashioned from an ochre-hued villa

Intrepid Travel’s 15-day Premium Vietnam in Depth offers plenty of time to explore Dalat, its quirky sites and coffee culture

10. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh is a heady city of nine million people and eight million motorbikes. It has brilliant street food, is draped in a fantastic array of fairy lights and is fuelled by a growing craft beer, spirit and cocktail scene and a thrilling, infectious energy. What two decades ago was a fairly low-rise city has now been dwarfed by an army of high rises. Don’t miss exploring the city on the back of a motorbike, visiting the top sites, and taking a trip out to the Viet Cong tunnels at Cu Chi and the fantastically decorated Cao Dai cathedral at Tay Ninh. Sampling the food and coffee goes without saying.

The Park Hyatt Saigon isn’t the best-looking from the outside. Step inside, though, and it’s a dazzler. Its restaurants and bars are top city addresses and the lovely pool is a boon on humid days. It’s right in the heart of the city, too, just behind the opera house.

Riviera Travel’s 16-day Vietnam and Cambodia tour three night-stay in Ho Chi Minh City ensures plenty of time to take in the sites and the food and explore the tunnels at Cu Chi

11. Mekong Delta

The liquid fingers of the Mekong River slink through southern Vietnam into the sea. Here you’ll find a mostly rural way of life with floating markets, temples and churches, and market farms harvesting coconut, bananas, mangos and veg. It’s not so much specific sites but a dip into the region’s culture — a mix of Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese, war history (Xeo Quyt’s Viet Cong forest bunkers are fascinating), wetlands and birds, and delicious food.

The prettily illuminated, French-inspired Victoria Can Tho faces the waterfront in lush grounds on the edge of Can Tho city. You can tour the waterways and floating markets of the delta using its own boats.

On Wendy Wu’s ten-day Magnificent Mekong cruise on the eco-friendly Victoria Mekong you’ll visit floating markets and local temples, meet artisans and explore wetlands

12. Con Dao archipelago

Con Dao was once a prison island run by the French and then the Americans. Today, this remote island off the south coast of Vietnam is a nature paradise, internationally recognised (by Ramsar) wetland area and home to the most important location for nesting sea turtles in Vietnam. Hike, snorkel, dive, sunbathe on the beautiful beaches, visit the turtle sites, and watch the squid boats at work. Visit its museum and sites, too: the cemetery of Vietnamese martyrs’ graves features seats built for their ghosts. You’ll want to stay at the fabulous Six Senses Con Dao.

The remote, secluded hideaway of Six Senses Con Dao is a luxury treat. The contemporary, glassy villas with private pools are right on the sugar-soft island sands; excellent food, the spa, and snorkelling are on tap.

Black Tomato’s 14-day Ultimate Vietnam: A luxury holiday from top to tail features fabulous beach time at the end of your trip at the exquisite Six Senses Con Dao

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• Best things to do in Vietnam • Best hotels in Vietnam

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30 Popular Vietnam Tourist Places to Visit [Must-go]

Vietnam has proven itself to be a diverse travel destination with plenty of touristic attractions and natural scenery. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is something to explore in each season.

Here are 30 popular tourist spots in Vietnam to add to your itinerary, compiled by our experienced travelers.

1. Hanoi Old Quarter

2. trang an ecological park , 3. tam coc in ninh binh , 4. ba na hills & golden bridge , 5. hoi an ancient town , 6. my khe beach , 7. cam thanh coconut village , 8. ha giang , 9. mai chau , 10. bac ha market , 11. cloud glass bridge , 12. fansipan peak , 13. halong bay , 14. bai tu long bay , 15. lan ha bay , 16. sung sot cave , 17. son doong cave , 18. phong nha cave , 19. nha trang bay & island , 20. mui ne , 21. tu duc tomb , 22. thien mu pagoda in hue , 23. hue citadel , 24. lang co  , 25. mekong delta , 26. da lat city , 27. my son sanctuary , 28. cu chi tunnel , 29. phu quoc island , 30. con dao island & prison .

Among the most-visited places in Northern Vietnam and Vietnam in general, Hanoi Old Quarter  bears strong historical values with its ancient French architecture, bustling local life, and delicious street foods. There is no doubt that foreign travelers should stay in, or at least visit Hanoi Old Quarter, at least once during their Asia trip. The remarkable thirty-six streets paint the scene of old Vietnamese urban life, along with the development of modern buildings. The narrow valleys, tucked-in vendors, and fast-paced traffic will become an unforgettable experience that makes many fall in love with Vietnam.

• What's there to love:  An intimate insight into local Vietnamese life, beautiful French architecture with modern buildings, small houses that hold a long history.
• Things to do:  Sip an iced coffee in the morning while looking out at the moving traffic, wander around the streets, explore small vendors who offer delicious food at reasonable prices.

A relaxing getaway destination not far from Hanoi capital, Trang An Ecological Park has become increasingly popular among foreign tourists in recent years, thanks to the blockbuster Kong: Skull Island filmed here. Trang An eco-tourism area was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2014. Covering an area of more than 2000 hectares, Trang An stretches over the territory of Ninh Binh city and three districts. It has a very diverse biological system made up of limestone mountains about 250 million years ago. It is the perfect destination for those who love nature and discover the magnificent caves of Ninh Binh, as well as visit the mystical and sacred Buddha pagodas. Tourists will sit on boats rowed by locals and observe the strange-shaped rock caves. They can enjoy the fresh, relaxing atmosphere and immerse themselves in the cultural values of Trang An.

• Ticket prices: 250.000 VND for adults and 120.000 VND for children 1 meter to 1.3 meters, including a boat ride through Trang An.

Tam Coc is worth exploring for the emerald blue waters, secluded resorts, and spacious ecotourism site. It is famous for its harmonious combination of majestic mountains and waterways flowing peacefully. Explore the nearby ancient temples and cycle along the path surrounded by vast rice paddy fields. Tam Coc is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the most popular travel destinations in Vietnam is Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge . You might not be unfamiliar with the breathtaking photos taken on this remarkable site, with the newly-built Golden Bridge. Ba Na Hills is a large amusement complex, consisting of fun rides for children and photogenic spots for Insta-worthy pictures. Dedicate a whole day to explore Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge.

• Fees: 750.000 VND for adults, (~30 USD), including entrance fee, cable car, transfer to entrance, and all rides inside.
• When to visit: If you want to visit Golden Bridge without the site being cramped by tourists, you should go early in the morning. Also, avoid the hottest times of the day, such as noon and hot afternoons on summer days, as you might be exposed to excessive sunshine.

A popular travel destination for domestic tourists, Hoi An Ancient Town is an incredible place to visit. Hoi An 's unique beauty is portrayed in other cities of Vietnam, such as at the International Cruise Port of Halong Bay. After touristic development, the town has attracted millions of tourists each year. There are local shops selling souvenirs, the picturesque river of, the lit-up lanterns, cozy homestays, and nearby beaches — Hoi An is an all-in-one attraction that guarantees a great time in Vietnam. Photographers will especially love this place as there is plenty to capture as you wander through the off-the-beaten-track streets.

• Things to do: Shop for souvenirs, visit the well-decorated local cafes, try out Central Vietnamese food, take plenty of photos in the ancient-looking streets.

If you fancy swimming after a long day of exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, drop by My Khe Beach. My Khe is considered one of Asia's most picturesque beaches, with its prominent features: white, smooth sands and beautiful coconut trees. It is said by foreign tourists to be the cleanest beach in Vietnam, with many cafes and seafood restaurants nearby. My Khe made its reputation as an irresistible beach destination. There are high-standard hotels and resorts near the beach, as well as an abundance of water activities. Coming to My Khe, tourists are in for a relaxing day lounging in the sun and watching the magnificent scenery in the sunset.

A few kilometers away from Hoi An Ancient Town, Cam Thanh Coconut Village . It is an off-the-beaten-track destination with a tranquil atmosphere. Coming to Cam Thanh, tourists are surrounded by coconut trees and beautiful rivers. The village's unique craft of making coconut paintings is what attracts domestic and foreign tourists. While wandering around the village, you can observe the process of crafting by locals and take a tour of the Vietnamese bamboo basket boat. Coconut Village will make an unforgettable day excursion of exploring educational and cultural values.

• Entrance fees: 40.000 VND per person, 150.000 VND for basket boat (maximum of 2 guests).

Flower blooming seasons and cool weather have been some of many reasons to visit Northern Vietnam. Ha Giang is a destination that should not be missed if you want to discover the local ethnic life and admire the impressive views of the mountains. Since Ha Giang became one of the top destinations in Northern Vietnam, there are many things to see.

Ha Giang is a mountainous province in the northeast of Vietnam, about 2,000 meters from sea level, where there are majestic hills and hidden valleys. Nature bestows here the picturesque natural landscapes with mountains, rivers, and immense flower fields that attract visitors during different times of the year.

• What to see:  Tourists coming in October and November must observe the triangular flower circuit in Sung La - Dong Van Valley or at the foot of Ma Pi Leng Pass. Besides, there is the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, Lung Cu Flag Tower, and plenty more photogenic sites.
• How to get there: Ha Giang is located 300 kilometers from Hanoi. You can go on your own via tourist bus, car, motorbike or book a full Ha Giang package tour .

Like Ha Giang, Mai Chau is a mountain destination that has become a popular short vacation destination for Vietnamese. This rural area located 150 kilometers away from Hanoi guarantees a peaceful time in the captivating mountainous scenery. Visitors are rewarded with magnificent sites of paddy fields, mountain slopes, and local villages busy with culture. Mai Chau, despite the tourism growth, remains a tranquil destination, with hazy beauty and glorious sunshine to provide a break from the bustling city streets. Each season paints Mai Chau a different color, with flowers and fields changing colors, making it perfect to visit at any time of the year.

• What to do: Stay in a local homestay, wake up early in the morning to shop, scroll around and watch children playing in the fields.

Bac Ha Market is 76 kilometers away from Lao Cai Town. This market is a vibrant representation of Vietnamese ethnic minorities. Taking place once a week on Sunday morning, Bac Ha Market is one of the biggest and most attractive in the region. The market is lively with energy and colors of ethnic costumes from the tribe people exchanging livestock and other products. Bac Ha is a great place to visit and observe locals communicating with each other on the weekends after a long week. A visit here will provide you with a sense of community in the rural North Vietnam region, away from the modernized life in the cities. It is not a place for souvenir shopping, but foreigners are welcome to look around the various stalls selling different products.

Cloud Glass Bridge, Cau Kinh Rong May in Vietnamese, is one of the cannot-miss destinations in Northwest Vietnam. Located near Sapa, this attraction spot would captivate adventurous travelers. While crossing this special bridge, visitors are rewarded with a sight never seen before, with apparent clouds on top of the mountains and the calm streams below. The Cloud Glass Bridge is completely safe to cross. The only thing to keep in mind is the transparent glass allowing a clear view below, which may bring about a thrilling experience.

If you are an adventure lover, conquering Fansipan Peak is something to cross off your bucket list. Marked as one of the most beautiful places to watch dawn or sunset, Fansipan Peak will make you realize the value of traveling to natural sites again. Nowadays, Fansipan Peak is easier to access via cable car to suit different types of travelers. However, the experience of trekking independently is worth trying if you are an experienced hiker because there are several areas along the trail that require skills and caution.

• Service fees: 750.000 VND (~32 USD) for adult's cable car ride and 550.000 VND (~24 USD) for children from 1 meter to 1.4 meters. Tickets are for round trip and are subject to change depending on the time of the year.
• Note : The cable car will not take you to the peak of Fansipan so you can climb the remaining steps for one hour or buy a train ticket for an extra 100.000 VND.

There is no doubt that Halong Bay is one of the most-visited destinations in Asia. Halong Bay is on the tip of everyone's tongue when thinking about Vietnamese attractions for its status as UNESCO's World Heritage Site. Coming to Halong Bay, visitors are rewarded with unique caves and surrounding mountains in a refreshing atmosphere. This scenic destination attracts millions of tourists each year, with the most popular activity is going on an overnight cruise . Halong Bay now offers a wide range of recreational activities for expats such as water sports, Sun Group amusement complex, city tours, and luxury services in island resorts.

Bai Tu Long Bay is a separate bay in the northeast of the island that takes up three-quarters of Halong Bay. While it is less known than Halong Bay center, the beauty of Bai Tu Long is equally as rewarding. The destination is home to many small islands and unspoiled beaches, surrounded by mountainous scenery. The local life at the floating villages of Bai Tu Long Bay boasts cultural significance and makes it a worthwhile experience for tourists. With the vast development of tourism, It's beauty has come to light in recent years and become the destination for some Bai Tu Long overnight cruises .

Lan Ha Bay , made up of four hundred limestone cliffs, boasts stunning scenery with emerald water and quaint attractive beaches. It is an amazing alternative to the world-renowned Halong Bay while providing a range of fun-filled activities beyond cruising. This destination is suitable for those looking for a quieter, less touristic spot while still enjoying the beautiful scenery. You will not run out of things to do here, like kayaking along the calm currents, explore the hidden caves that took thousands of years to form, get an insight into local life by visiting fishing villages, and engaging in plenty of water activities. Nowadays, there are some Lan Ha Bay Cruises take you to explore the beauty of the underrated bay.

Sung Sot Cave is a familiar name in Halong Bay's travel itinerary. It is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Halong, where the insides of the caves are lit up with colorful lights and incredibly unique limestone karsts. Visitors will be amazed by the spacious area since they first step foot. Taking you from one surprise to another, it is certainly a one-of-a-kind tourist place. The beautiful pictures do not do Sung Sot Cave justice. You will have to come and experience it first-hand and be impressed by Vietnam's natural beauty.

Son Doong is the largest cave in the world. This phenomenal cave boasts unbelievable beauty that draws the attention of many journalists, scientists, and international travel enthusiasts ever since it came to light. To reach Son Doong, visitors have to trek through a minority village. It is one of the most adventurous things to do in Vietnam, and travelers have to meet many requirements for heath before registering to visit here. At the moment, tours to Son Doong is very limited and expensive, since it requires the help of many professionals. As an alternative, tourists can visit other spectacular caves in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park.

Phong Nha Cave is one of the most-visited caves in Vietnam and Southeast Asia in general. Phong Nha is the Phong Nha - Ke Bang region's absolute highlights, worthy of a visit at least once. After being recognized as a World Heritage Site in 2013, it has continued to retain its uniqueness and historical significance in the eyes of locals. Though there are many caves in Vietnam, Phong Nha Cave became a remarkable site, due to many reasons: the most beautiful underground river, the highest and widest entrance, the largest and most beautiful dry cave, and more. Travelers around the world find themselves mesmerized by the rock formation that bears interesting names inside the cave.

• Entrance fees in 2021: 120.000 VND for low tourist season (January to March and October to December); 150.000 VND for high tourist season (April to September)

Many Vietnamese people enjoy going to the beaches on their summer holiday, and Nha Trang is a popular destination for this reason. There are many luxury resorts and private beaches on the beautiful coastline, but there are also great street foods on an excursion to the city center. Also, Nha Trang offers a myriad of recreational activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving for diverse undersea life. Nha Trang is the perfect mix of a luxury getaway and exploring like a local, so do not hesitate and consult us today for a great vacation.

• What to do: Visit local museums, Buddha pagodas, participate in Vinpearl Land Nha Trang games, go shopping for souvenirs.

Five hours away from Ho Chi Minh City is Mui Ne - Phan Thiet, a popular destination for Southern Vietnamese. Mui Ne is home to awe-inspiring natural landscape, with breathtaking white and red sand dunes that look like a painting. This spot has increasingly become popular for international travelers who want to take a break from the city and head to a beach town with slopes and long stretches of beautiful beaches.

There are plenty of things to do here for the thrill-seekers and the casual travelers, including the must-do riding a quad bike on the sand. Those who want to stay more than a day in Mui Ne will be happy to find out this has developed into a tourist site with various hotels and resorts of different ranges. It is definitely an interesting stop in your Vietnam itinerary.

Mui Ne sand dunes, an extremely popular spot for photos

Tu Duc Tomb is the most popular and impressive mausoleum of the royals’. It was completed in 1867, during the reign of Emperor Tu Duc. It is a complex of architectural works located in a small valley in Thuong Ba village, Hue, about 6km from the city center. Coming to the historical site of Tu Duc Tomb, tourists get the educational benefits and admire the tranquil surroundings of nature.

• Entrance fee: 150.000 VND for adults, 30.000 VND for children 7-12 years old. Tickets are purchased at the entrance. There are also combo tickets for the multiple venues of Hue Tomb.

Thien Mu Pagoda is a notable site in Hue, the old capital. It is the oldest pagoda in the city. Thien Mu's distinctive bell and design has appeared in various paintings, poems, proses and songs of the people. Visitors will recognize the pagoda The surrounding tranquil scenery of Thien Mu adds to the landmark's beauty, with the Huong River flowing in front of the Citadel. Thien Mu Pagoda is not only a spiritual place but also a wonderful space for tourists sightseeing, a must-see destination to grasp the romantic and charming beauty of Hue. Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, tourists let their minds wander off to the harmonious combination of peaceful landscape and the sacred pagoda that holds much value to local people.

• Entrance fees : None.
• Note : Dress appropriately and take off your shoes upon entering the inside of the pagoda.

The massive complex comprises hundreds of monuments, ruins, pagodas, and royal tombs. Hue Citadel is a site in the Complex of Hue Monuments that was recognized as UNESCO's World Heritage Site. One of Vietnam's historical and cultural highlights, it is a must in your travel itinerary to see the ancient features and life of the royals. It was the place of settlement of the Nguyen dynasty for 143 years, from 1802 to 1945. Hue Ancient Citadel is known for its immaculate architecture in harmony with the peaceful natural surroundings that provide a sacred atmosphere. The timeless site is carefully preserved and serves as a memorial for a period of imperial feudalism in Vietnam.

• Entrance fees: 200.000 VND for adults, 40.000 VND for children.

Lang Co Town is located in Thua Thien - Hue province, on the root of the Hai Van mountain range. Lang Co area is blessed with the rich beauty of greenery, rivers, islands, and emerald beaches. It was a popular attraction spot for nobles in the past, being one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Now, Lang Co beach still retains its status as a paradise destination for a summer escape in Hue. Though Vietnam is home to many picturesque regions, the distinctive charm of Lang Co is worth exploring at least once in central Vietnam.

• What to do: Immerse yourself in nature when staying at a resort, admire the pristine Lang Co beach with fishing boats of locals, take in the breath-taking views of Lap An lagoon, visit Bach Ma National Park about 30km away from Lang Co.

Visiting Mekong Delta is one of the best ways to get a grasp of Vietnamese local life. This amazing region simply cannot be discovered on a short day excursion, as there is more to it than floating markets. Life in Mekong Delta revolves around water, and many locals' source of income comes from agricultural industries. The area is brimming with wildlife and history. A unique destination in Asia, Mekong Delta is a great choice for keen foreign tourists interested in seeing a culture completely different from their own.

• What to do: Visit on-the-water villages, see floating markets and ancient houses, step inside The Lover's House, go bird watching.

Da Lat City is best to visit during the winter months when the sunshine shines over the greenery and paints the city in a hazy picture. One of the most popular tourist cities for Vietnamese locals, Da Lat has proven its top-tier status with countless hotels, unique cafes, vibrant street food scene, and rewarding natural scenery. There are plenty of beautiful landmarks to see in Da Lat, so dedicate at least a few days to explore this city by motorbike, walking or cars.

• What to do: Visit the many strawberry farms, take lots of photos at the cafes, relax by the tranquil Xuan Huong lake or Tuyen Lam lake, visit Emperor Bao Dai's Summer Palace, explore Penn Waterfall.
• Climate : Those who are familiar with the tropical climate will find Da Lat rather cold. Jackets, scarves, and knitted hats are needed when you visit Da Lat from November to February, as the temperature can hover around 20 degrees Celsius.

My Son Sanctuary , located in Quang Nam province, southern Vietnam, is a noteworthy site with Hindu temples that reflect Cham-style architecture. This complex has temples built by Cham Kings during their reign. Each temple has a typical architecture that reflects the historical stage of the Champa kingdoms. My Son was destroyed by time and bombing in the war, but parts of the sanctuary have been rebuilt. Tourists who are interested in history and culture should not miss My Son during their visit.

• Entrance fees: 150.000 VND.
• Opening hours: 6:30 am – 5:30 pm. The best time to visit My Son is in the morning and late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

For a more unique and exciting experience, head to Cu Chi Tunnel . Cu Chi Tunnel plays an important part in the Vietnam War. It has been preserved by the government to offer an insight into Vietnam's past for Vietnamese younger generations and historically-curious foreigners. In the past, Cu Chi Tunnel served as a secluded place for Vietnamese locals during the war. In this tiny underground tunnel, there were hospitals, schools, and kitchens operating. Not only is Cu Chi Tunnel a unique experience unlike an island paradise or busy touristic city, but it will also help you gain knowledge into the past lifestyle of Vietnamese people during the Vietnam war.

• Entrance fee: 110.000 VND (~5.5 USD). There are many tour operators offering day tours in Cu Chi Tunnel, such as Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day.
• Note: Proceed with caution as the tunnel might not be suitable for travelers with breathing difficulties, as it is a narrow place.

Phu Quoc is the perfect island destination for those keen on lounging on the beach and swimming on their vacation. This separate island in the south of Vietnam bears captivating beauty, with a clear sea, luxury resorts, and plenty of entertainment facilities. Stay in a villa near the beach and enjoy a vacation of a lifetime when coming to Phu Quoc. This island is truly one of the best paradise destinations in Asia.

For couples on a honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary, having a multiple-course dinner along the coast while watching the sunset on the idyllic beach is certainly an unforgettable experience. There is a wide range of hotels, villas, and resorts with modern amenities and professional services to choose from, so you will not be disappointed when coming here.

• What to do:  Swim in the clear blue waters, explore the roads on a motorbike, hang out at the bars after midnight, getting a luxury massage, participate in plenty of fun beach activities like snorkeling and kayaking.
• Tip:  June to August is peak travel season for domestic tourists so hotel rooms will run out quickly during this time. With pleasant weather and sunny days in the summer months, you might not get the best deals while visiting Vietnam during summertime.

Con Dao island is a one-hour flight away from Ho Chi Minh City, in Ba Ria - Vung Tau province. It got the name 'paradise on earth' due to the idyllic scenery of white sand, wild forests, and picturesque beaches. The beaches in Con Dao boasts poetic and tranquil charm, most unexploited for tourism, so its beauty remains intact.

Aside from natural beauty, Con Dao holds a strong history of Vietnamese people's past sufferings. The must-see spot in this place is Con Dao Prison, built by the French colonialists and the American imperialists. There are hundreds of cells and separate rooms for imprisoning and torturing Vietnamese patriots and political prisoners during the war. Tourists who come to visit Con Dao Prison may be shocked to discover all the brutal systems used to torture. Now the site has become a sacred place of the country to commemorate the fallen national heroes of older days. In addition to the Con Dao prison, there are other cultural spots to visit.

• What to do : See sea turtles lay eggs, go snorkeling, hiking up the mountains, explore the undiscovered islands, watch the sunset, try out local specialties.
• The best time to visit Con Dao is from April to November as the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm.

The charm of Vietnam leaves much to the imagination, so visiting the country on a first-hand experience is the best way to discover why it is so attractive for foreigners. For the best value deals and make sure you do not miss out on the highlights, check out our Vietnam tours . We have something to cater to every kind of traveler — romantic honeymoon, families with children, adventure seekers, etc.

One of BestPrice Travel's most popular tours is Highlight of Vietnam 12 days , where you will embark on a journey from the North to South Vietnam and visit many popular tourist places. Do not hesitate and contact us today for a fulfilling travel experience.

You might also like: Useful information for first-time visitors when travelling to Vietnam

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Leaders of China and Vietnam pledge to strengthen political and economic ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Vietnam's President To Lam walk out of a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing Monday, Aug. 19, 2024. (Andres Martinez Casares/Pool Photo via AP)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/Andres Martinez Casares]

BEIJING (AP) — The leaders of China and Vietnam pledged to further their economic ties and gave a nod to their shared communist ideology during the first visit by Vietnam’s new president to Beijing on Monday.

To Lam, who took office in May, made China the destination of his first state visit, signaling the continuing importance the Southeast Asian nation places on its giant neighbor despite ongoing territorial frictions in the South China Sea.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Li Yuan, hosted a ceremony for Lam and his wife, Ngo Phuong Ly, at Beijing’s vast Great Hall of the People, replete with flags, flowers and a marching band.

Xi remarked on the “deep friendship” between Vietnam and China and said Vietnam was a priority for Beijing’s “neighborhood diplomacy.”

“As two ruling Communist parties in the world today, the two parties of China and Vietnam should … continue their traditional friendship … and jointly promote the development of the world’s socialist cause,” Xi said. “I believe that our road will expand wider as we walk further.”

Lam’s three-day visit to China comes about two weeks after he was confirmed as general secretary of Vietnam’s Communist Party, the country’s top political position. He succeeded Nguyen Phu Trong, who died last month after 13 years as leader.

Lam told Xi the relationship with China was the top priority of Vietnam’s foreign policy.

“As a brother, we always observe every step of China’s development, and we are happy for the achievement that the party and the government and the people of China have made under your leadership,” Lam said in his opening remarks before meeting with Xi.

The two leaders oversaw the signing of 14 cooperation agreements in areas such as political education, infrastructure, health care and banking. China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade of $172 billion last year.

Lam said Vietnam supported China’s claim over self-ruled Taiwan, known as the “One China” principle, and that any issues pertaining to Hong Kong and the regions of Tibet and Xinjiang constitute China’s internal affairs.

Lam is expected to continue his predecessor’s strategy of balancing ties with China, the United States, Russia and others.

The U.S. and its ally Japan have been developing closer ties with Vietnam’s communist government — America’s former foe in the Vietnam War — as they seek partners in a growing economic and strategic rivalry with China.

When Xi visited Vietnam in December, the two countries announced they would build “a shared future that carries strategic significance.” The agreement, which Chinese state media has described as an elevation of ties, was seen as a concession by Vietnam, which had resisted using that wording in the past.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Lam in Vietnam in June after visiting North Korea on a rare overseas trip for the Russian leader, who has been ostracized by many countries because of the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine .

Lam began his China trip on Sunday in Guangzhou, a major manufacturing and export hub near Hong Kong. He also visited sites in the southern city where Vietnam’s former communist leader Ho Chi Minh spent time in the 1920s and ’30s.

Although both are one-party communist states, Vietnam and China have sparred repeatedly over territory that both claim in the South China Sea. China also briefly invaded parts of northern Vietnam in 1979.

A Vietnamese coast guard ship recently took part in joint drills in the Philippines, which has had a series of violent encounters with China over contested territory in the South China Sea.

Still, Vietnam has benefited economically from investment by Chinese manufacturers, which have moved production to the Southeast Asian country in part to skirt U.S. restrictions on solar panels and other exports from China.

Mistreanu reported from Taipei, Taiwan.

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