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Best Time for Hanoi Tours: Month-by-Month Weather Guide
Curious about the best time to visit Hanoi? Seasons change and with them, the lush and lovely city a riot of blossom in the spring (February to April), steamy humidity in the suffocating summer, golden breezes in the autumn, and the chilly blast of crisp, dry air in the winter, inviting you to take shelter in the city’s cozy cafés. Picking the perfect time to visit Hanoi. Finding the best time to visit Hanoi is a way to experience the city’s most preferred temperature to explore its outdoor activities and see colorful festivals, and also to avoid extremes of the rainy and biting hot seasons. When you’re wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake or contemplating a side trip to Halong Bay, the way you experience it depends on when you do. Join us here as we dive into Hanoi by month – So from Hanoi’s January temperature to Hanoi weather in March, you can find the ideal time to visit for your trip of a lifetime!
This is one of the best times to be in Hanoi. The climate is pleasant, flowers blossom everywhere, and the air is redolent of Tet, the largest festival of the year in Vietnam. With temperatures ranging from 18 to 25°C, it’s perfect for visiting outdoor spots such as Hoan Kiem Lake. Wonder what it’s like to be there in early spring? For more information, see Hanoi weather in March!
Summer (May – August)
Summer in Hanoi is hot and humid, which coincides with the beginning of the rainy season. Temperatures are generally quite high, exceeding 33°C, with frequent heavy showers in the afternoon. It’s hardly the best time to visit Hanoi, but if you can handle the heat, it’s a good time to visit with fewer tourists and a lush green landscape.
Autumn (September – November)
This is also the best time to visit Hanoi for the majority of travelers. The air is brisk, the skies are clear, and the city shimmers with golden leaves. The weather: Pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 20°C and 28°C, it is the best time of the year in Hanoi to enjoy the outdoors. The Mid-Autumn Festival is also worth braving, the city full of lanterns, mooncakes, and cultural performances.
Winter (December – January)
Hanoi’s winter comes with cold and dry weather; some days the temperature can be 10°C or below. It’s a serene time to travel, perfect for savoring sizzling local food and having some fun at Christmas or New Year. What’s it going to be like during the coldest month? Read on for practical advice.
Best Time to Visit Hanoi Based on Your Travel Style
Love sightseeing?
March-April or October-November are good months to visit Hanoi. The weather is mild and the skies are clear, ideal for sightseeing in places like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. Do not skip the Hanoi weather march when sending data and travel tips in spring!
Couples looking for romance?
Opt for autumn (September-November). This time of year tends to be one of golden leaves, milk flower scents, and dreamy walks. It is the most romantic time of year in Hanoi.
On a budget?
On a budget? Visit in May or December. May is hot but cheap. December is cool and festive, make that Hanoi in January, and pack some clothes.
Festival lover?
And visit, in January-February, for Tet, Vietnam’s largest national festival. Or savor the Mid-Autumn Festival in September, lanterns and mooncakes, and magical nights.
Month-by-Month Breakdown: Hanoi Weather & Travel Tips
January: Cold Mornings & Tranquil Temples
Weather Summary: Look forward to cooler, mistier days, with temperatures ranging between 14°C and 20°C and drizzle and low humidity that make it one of the driest months of the year.
What to Expect: January is a quiet, mellow month. As residents gear up for Tet, the streets grow wonderfully quiet. Flower markets begin to bloom, and there’s a peaceful sparkle around every turn, especially in early morning temple visits.
Events & Festival: Tet typically comes in February, but the celebrations are kicking off now. Alongside floral decorations, red envelopes, and busy markets, you’ll feel the cultural pulse.
Best Things to Do:
Get lost in the Old Quarter without the hordes
View options: Get to the Temple of Literature or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in peace
Drink hot egg coffee at a clandestine cafe
Visit indoor museums such as the Fine Arts Museum or the Hoa Lo Prison
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Calm atmosphere, friendly locals, areas still unexplored, and low precipitation.
Cons: Damn cold nights bring warm clothes!
Packing Tips: Layers, a windbreaker, and comfortable walking shoes. To have a better idea of this cold season, read how Hanoi is in January, and plan your clothes and day trips accordingly.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Source: baochinhphu)
February: Festive Feels & Floral Beginnings
Weather Summary: Temperatures ranging 15-21ºC, misty mornings, and a romantic haze over the city. The rain is light, but the sky remains cloudy.
What to Expect: Winter here in Hanoi is festive, as the Tet holiday has arrived and the fun continues in full force throughout the month. Flower stalls, lanterns, and ancestral altars animate streets. Just be aware: some shops may close down for up to a few days while everyone celebrates.
Events & Festivals:
Tet (Lunar New Year): Vietnam’s most sacred and emotionally significant festival, observed with colorful, spiritual, and emotional
Co Loa Festival: Conducted in the Dong Anh district, combining ancient ceremonies and games in the locality
Best Things to Do:
Browse through spring flower markets
Enjoy performances around Hoan Kiem Lake, including traditional dances.
Temple hopping dressed in red and gold for New Year blessings
Cons: Some closures, reduced services during Tet week
Packing Tips: Layers, light sweaters…and something festive if you want to feel like one of the locals. A wonderful time to visit if you take culture over crowds.
Co Loa Festival (Source: thanhcoloa)
March: Blossoms and Spring Breezes
Weather Summary: Hello, and happy mild spring! Hanoi weather in March is observed at temperatures ranging from 18- 24 °C with minimum rainfall.
What to Expect: The blooming season in Hanoi starts now. It’s nature coming alive, blooming trees, fresh and abuzz. It’s one of the best times for outdoor activities throughout the city.
Events & Festivals:
Ban Flower Season: The whole city is dyed violet with ban flowers
Temple festivals are organised in several districts
Art and culture events spring up, particularly on weekends.
Best Things to Do:
Go to Hoan Kiem Lake at sunrise and get the magic light.
Take a walk on Phan Dinh Phung Street when the trees are in full blossom.
Embark on a cultural tour or a day trip to Halong Bay
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Beautiful weather, thin crowds, and nature in full bloom
Cons: And, now only the negatives: It’s early flu season, so pack accordingly.
Packing Tips: Light jackets, scarves for cool mornings, sunscreen for day trips. For even more ideas, check the Hanoi weather in March to help you plan the best activities during your Hanoi holiday.
Walk on Phan Dinh Phung Street (Source: vnexpress)
April: Transitional Charm Before the Heat
Weather Summary: Temperatures ranging from 21° C to 28° C. Scattered rain showers are expected, but the sun is sticking around. Towards the end of the month, the humidity starts to increase.
What to Expect: April is a month of transition when spring shifts to early summer. The scenery is in full bloom, skies are often clear, and it’s still a great time to go before the rainy season sets in.
Events & Festivals:
Reunification Day (April 30) and Labor Day (May 1) with their energy of patriotism
It’s still the full bloom of the flower season.
Best Things to Do:
Marvel at the French Quarter on a walking tour
Visit rural villages nearby to see all the beautiful green rice fields
See a traditional show at the Vietnam National Theater
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Beautiful scenery, long days for sightseeing
Cons: A shower could interfere with outdoor plans late in the month
Packing Tips: Umbrella, waterproof shoes, light layers. Still one of the best times to visit Hanoi before the hot days of summer.
Vietnam National Theater (Source: holidify)
May: Start of Summer & Shoulder Season Savings
Weather Summary: Early May in Hanoi is the onset of the summer, with temperatures ranging between 24°C and 32°C. It’s the beginning of the rainy season in this area, so expect brief and heavy showers in the afternoons, and increasingly high humidity.
What to Expect: The weather in Hanoi is brilliant with plenty of contrasts throughout the day; sunshine in the morning and showers in the afternoon. There are fewer tourists around, so there are big discounts on your hotel and tour packages if you visit Hanoi this month.
Events & Festivals:
Citywide early summer sales
Cultural activities resume in theaters after Tet
Best Things to Do:
See an indoor Water Puppet Show in a traditional setting
Go to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum during the cooler times of the day
Delightful green surroundings and peaceful streets
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Cheap packages, plush surroundings
Cons: Flash rains, soaring high temperatures
Packing Tips: Light, fast-drying clothes and a small umbrella. It’s not the best time to visit Hanoi for those intolerant of heat, but a dreamy one for the smart traveler who loves tranquillity and deals.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Source: vinwonders)
June: Hanoi Turns Tropical
Weather Summary: High and low temperatures ranging from around 79 and 91. Ready for the heat? Thunder showers become prevalent, particularly in the afternoons, and with high humidity, the city is sweltering.
What to Expect: June ushers in the rainy season in full force. It’s hot, it’s wet, and it’s gloriously alive. Nature erupts in green, and rain-cooled nights make for soft strolls along the rim of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Events & Festivals:
Off-peak = shorter lines at most attractions
Art and culture go inside
Best Things to Do:
Get up early for a quiet stroll by the West Lake
Visit Hoa Lo Prison and Turtle Tower in the morning before the heat peaks
Kick back on local iced tea and breezy rooftop cafés
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Fewer crowds, tropical vibes
Cons: Muggy, storms could interfere with outdoor plans
Packing Tips: Wear checkered clothing and waterproof shoes- early rising is this man’s law! If you’re hesitating about what is the best time to visit Hanoi is, please note that the rainy season also has its perks, particularly if you are an adventurous type!
Visit Hoa Lo Prison (Source: vietravel)
July: Peak Heat & Storm Drama
Weather Summary: With average high, low temperatures ranging between 27°C (80.6°F) and 34°C (93.2°F) and more than 18 rainy days, July is hot, moist, and showy!
What to Expect: It’s the height of summer and the rainy season. When the midday sun bakes the city, it cools off with a bang of an afternoon storm. It may not be the best time to visit Hanoi for all, but for those who revel in the chaos that summer truly is, it is an unforgettable experience.
Events & Festivals:
Quiet local life; the perfect place to experience an off-the-beaten-path visit
Best Things to Do:
Get a cold egg coffee or iced tea and listen to the rain from a café balcony
Escape from the heat at cool spots such as the Fine Arts Museum
Venture out on a day trip to Ninh Binh to get some fresh air and a view of rice fields
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Few to no tourists, genuine local experiences
Cons: Crazy heat, sporadic showers
Packing Tips: Sunscreen, sunhat, cooling towels, waterproof bags. And don’t forget to get back for more gentle conditioning on lighter ones, such as the weather in Hanoi in March.
The Fine Arts Museum in Hanoi (Source: visitbadinh)
August: Rainy Afternoons, Floral Aromas– for the best time to visit Hanoi
Weather Summary: Still humid, with temperatures ranging between 26°C to 32°C and rain showers. But the magic is in the air literally.
What to Expect: August is when the milk flower season comes to town, and Hanoi is filled with the sweet nostalgia of it. It’s a moist season, but one with a romantic, poetic character, especially at dusk.
Events & Festivals:
Early preparation for the Mid-Autumn Festival
Quiet hotels and open tables at famous restaurants
Best Things to Do:
Embark on evening walks around Hoan Kiem Lake amid the blossom-filled air
Tour of the most famous cafes in Hanoi with seasonal dessert
Go to a live traditional music performance when it’s raining
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Sensory-rich experiences, low travel costs
Cons: Daytime activities could be shortened by rain
Packing Tips: Waterproof gear, bug spray, light rain gear, and a camera; you’ll want to document these moody, beautiful scenes.
Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (Source:baotintuc)
September: Hanoi Wakes Up to Autumn– for the best time to visit Hanoi
Weather Summary: High 75 to 85 with lower humidity and sunnier skies. September is the month that begins the most romantic season in Hanoi, Autumn.
What to Expect: Despite the gloom over the world, the rice paddies in the countryside are golden, and leaves have started to flutter down gently along ancient streets in the city. This is a photographer’s and romantic’s prime time to visit.
Events & Festivals:
This month’s major festival is the beloved Mid-Autumn Festival (Trung Thu), when you can expect lanterns, lantern processions, lion dances, and mooncakes!
Best Things to Do:
Take golden-hour photos by Hoan Kiem Lake
Taste mooncakes with locals
Cooler air means you can get out and take walking tours of the Old Quarter.
Packing Tips: Light layers, comfortable walking shoes are great. If you’re still pondering what is the best time to visit Hanoi this is it.
Walking in the Old Quarter (Source: vinwonders)
October: The Iconic Month to Visit– for the best time to visit Hanoi
Weather Summary: The temperatures ranging in October range from 22-28° C. The sky is clear with a cool breeze, which fills the air with the smell of blooming milk flowers.
What to Expect: It’s the best time to visit Hanoi. Locals love it. Travelers adore it. You’ll discover perfect conditions for outdoor pursuits from lakeside walks to cultural outings
Events & Festivals:
Hanoi (the capital of Vietnam) celebrates its founding day (Oct 10th) with street parades and concerts
Art shows and gallery openings abound this season
Best Things to Do:
Take a stroll by West Lake as the trees change color
See open-air cafes, colonial villas, and gardens from the French period
Bike through the Red River Delta
Pros & Cons:
Pros: The season offers picture-perfect weather and an active cultural life
Cons: Hotel rates could be slightly elevated if booked in advance
Packing Tips: Light sweaters and clothes made of breathable fabrics are key. And don’t miss comparing this delightful month to other cool times, such as Hanoi’s January temperature, for a fuller perspective of what the season has to offer.
Hanoi Liberation Day – October 10 (Source: kinhtedothi)
November: Golden Skies, Cozy Streets– for the best time to visit Hanoi
Weather Summary: temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C heading to Hanoi in November, you’ll find it to be pleasantly cool, windy, and nothing like the high humidity of the previous few months of summer.
What to Expect: The city wears a lovely, wistful tranquillity. Crowds disappear, but the texture of daily life is alive and well details like its street-food culture and its sidewalk cafés.
Events & Festivals:
Coffee and street food tours are thriving
Night market seasonal delicacies are sold at night markets
Best Things to Do:
Sip egg coffee by the lake
Take an evening food tour in the Old Quarter.
Visit the Temple of Literature in the golden foliage.
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Quiet, picturesque, and very traveler-friendly.
Cons: Fewer large festivals
Packing Tips: Warmer garb for the evening chill. Layers are best. And for the record, compare with Hanoi weather in March and how spring’s warmth stacks up.
Evening dining experience in the Old Quarter (Source: crystalbay)
December: Winter Charms and Christmas Lights – for the best time to visit Hanoi
Weather Summary: Temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C; some cool winds and short days. Hanoi is festive and cozy, and best taken slowly.
What to Expect: Christmas lights sparkle throughout the Hoan Kiem Lake neighborhood, and locals are starting to celebrate year-end holidays. Unsnowy, but the vibe is wintry.
Events & Festivals:
Christmas lights and services at St. Joseph’s Cathedral
New Year’s Countdowns around the city
Best Things to Do:
Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho in the chilly air
Walk through art or an art gallery
Take holiday-themed tours or café crawls
Pros & Cons:
Pros: Filled with atmosphere, cool reprieve from the heat
Cons: Longest night of the year, cold weather (for some travelers)
Packing Tips: Warm clothes, scarves, maybe a beanie. For those who prefer cooler climes, December provides a peaceful and contemplative alternative to busier months, perfect if you’ve missed the best time to visit Hanoi earlier in the year.
Christmas lights at St. Joseph’s Cathedral (Source: crystalbay)
Conclusion
In summary, when is the best time to visit Hanoi? It depends on your style, spring (March-April) and fall (September-November) are popular benchmarks in terms of having the best weather combined with city cultural lures. Whether the hunt for blooms, the enjoyment of festivals, or Hanoi weather march and Hanoi in temperature january, there is one season in Hanoi that fits you, February. So book your Hanoi Tours now and be captivated by the charm of the capital!
Ranana
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating! We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC. The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T". I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all. Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team. Sulaiman Pochee
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
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We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress. Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide). Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
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Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
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