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The best time for visiting Hanoi? Tours & Trip Plan
Visiting Hanoi, the pulsating capital of Vietnam is a thrilling activity. Hanoi, from its historical past to both of the cuisine and people, invites all visitors to participate in many experiences. Thereafter, your trip to Hanoi at the right time of the year can be the difference between an unforgettable and a lackluster experience. In this manual, we are taking a closer look at the varieties of the climate, festivals, and tourist seasons of Hanoi so that it can help you plan the most appropriate time for such exploration.
Understanding the climate
Hanoi experiences a humid subtropical climate change, characterized by distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season brings particularly a charm and weather patterns, influencing the atmosphere of the city and tourist activities.
A trip to Hanoi in spring (February to April)
Spring
The citizens awaken from their winter rest, with spring being a welcoming banner for the beginning of the travel season. Furthermore, the temperature in Hanoi spontaneously swings from roughly 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). In contrast, the city seems to be embraced by cozy weather, which is the impetus to explore surrounding green landscapes and culturally diverse communities.
An endless palette of colors paints the cityscape in perfect harmony with spring, bringing out the highest masterpieces of nature. From delicate petals of peach blossoms to the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms, Hanoi looks like a canvas. It is where nature exhibited, casting a magical spell that triggers amazement of wonder in the heart of the viewers.
Besides, the Vietnamese Tet Nguyen Dan, also known as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is a significant event. The spirit of Tet is harmonious with every beat of drums in dragon dances and vivid dances. Travelers would appreciate the immersion with a cultural effect during the season. With spring filling the air with freshness, travelers can certainly seize this moment to enjoy the wonders of Hanoi. Moreover, they can embark on a voyage of learning in the ambiance of nature when having their trip to Hanoi.
A trip to Hanoi in summer (May to August)
Summer
When the summer sun rises, Hanoi is shrouded in a thick heat, in which the temperature climbs over 30°C (86°F). On the other hand, it may drive off some others, but it is attractive to a horde of visitors who fall in love with the pulsating rhythm of the city and the wide variety of outdoor activities they wish to undertake. Despite the unbearable heat during summer, Hanoi has a mystical charm, an invitation to those who discover local secrets.
In addition to outdoor spectacles, summer in Hanoi maximizes the monsoon season, which is a calling of danger as well. With it comes the hope of occasional hard rainfall for occasional relief from the increasing heat, but it can also add a blockade to any plans of swimming or sightseeing. However, these turns of heavy rain can ruin our trip to Hanoi even when we have planned it carefully and might make shelter faster since the nearest cafes or cultural sites are close.
On one hand, during the summer in Hanoi, people could face deep heat, heavy rains, and unpredictable temperatures. On the other hand, this kind of weather eventually makes the city alive in a state of dynamic flux, where moments of peace still stand against the fleeting excitement of its crowded streets. From the serenity of pagodas to the scramble of open-air markets, these activities present the daily life during the summer. Therefore, Hanoi is with the 40-degree constant heath and the cloudy sky bringing the monsoon ceremony on the horizon. Straightaway, travelers have chances to sail with the wind and discover the hidden charms during their summer trip to Hanoi.
A trip to Hanoi in autumn (September to November):
Fall
Autumn in Hanoi welcomes visitors with its gentle climate, offering mild temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). As the weather changes, a tangible sense of change envelops the environment. Occasionally, it brings the humidity down, making the outside activities more enjoyable with the sensation of being under the sky. Magic happens in the urban background of the metamorphosis of the leaves turning golden and crimson, crafting a stunning scenery for the senses to enjoy and explore.
Mid-Autumn Festival is the cultural activity that happens in this season. Markedly, it is the factor that makes this season amazing with a unique and unforgettable culture. This blissful moment, infused by mystical stories and legends, will be illuminated by a beaming glow that will greet travelers and allow them to relish in the charm of this captivating place. Lantern parades glint the streets with a various colors, holding the magic of which everyone casts spells in the twilight. Traditional performances are enriched with the life of the old traditions and rituals wherever the spectators go, they feel the memories of the past, where the legends come to live amidst the tape of drums and the simple melodies.
For those passionate about travel and wanting to experience the essence of Autumn festivities in Hanoi, you should take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage. From the bustling energy of mid-autumn revelries to the serene beauty of the autumnal transformation, every moment spent in the trip to Hanoi during this enchanting season offers a glimpse into the timeless allure and enduring grandeur. Do not miss the chance to witness these ancient traditions firsthand.
A trip to Hanoi in winter (December to January):
Winter
Frosty winds that come with the approach of Hanoi winters bring together the threshold temperatures of 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 Fahrenheit) almost day by day. Despite the evening hours that might seem sharper in the severity, the city turns into a tranquil loose-climate zone – which is much more appealing for those who dislike too cold or warm weather conditions.
Besides, a beautiful picture of winter in Hanoi deserves much more than just the beauty of the seasons, as the city becomes permeated with the happy flavor of the upcoming Christmas and New Year. The entire curbside is down with little lights like stars and interactive decorations, which lend the urbane canvas a mysterious touch. The festive season will have its charm because of the vibrant marketplaces and handicrafts altogether with culinary delights. Spanning from savory street food to aromatic mulled wine, one cannot help noticing the exotic flavors that fill the air and make us savor all the seasonal specialties that warm up body and spirit accordingly.
Simultaneously, the streets of Hanoi consist of many varied holiday events and local festivities during the winter season. Multicolored street parades and mind-blowing fireworks mark the birthday of this city, and people of ages may enjoy the masterpiece. The choice could be between enjoying the view during the walk along the well-known Hoan Kiem Lake and taking part in the wide variety of activities on Hanoi’s vibrant squares because the winter in Hanoi offers a fairy-tale net of excitement, pictures of which will be etched in your memory forever.
Determining the Best Time to Visit
If you are the kind of person who finds peace in the arms of nature and will not let you detest the solution of occasional raindrops, you should then know that is what summer trip to Hanoi means. Additionally, you can spend hours discovering natural beauties such as landscapes and nearby attractions. Moreover, remember to prepare for the pan-city embracement of high altitudes and humidity that often mob the city landscape.
Hanoi will significantly attract those who are finding the cultural indulgence and the joy of festivity during spring and fall. These types of seasons are the best for a date with the city. Spring brings nature back to life by applying a flower pattern and the excitement of Tet celebrations for a rainbow of colors and tradition. As for autumn, it usually begins not only with a portrait of gentle weather but also enthusiastic visitors are invited by the city to take part in the exhilaration the Mid-Autumn Festival offers where the city glows with joy and cultural purity.
On the other hand, if you are down for the fresh atmosphere of a lower temperature without crowds in Hanoi. Then, the time might be right for your trip to Hanoi in the winter with them. Obviously, Hanoi puts you into puffy clothing, but at the same time, the wintertime bears all the hidden grain of holiday happiness that finally gives you a breakthe storms of tourist crowds.
Summary
Overall, it depends on what you are looking for to decide when you should go for a trip to Hanoi: the people and the festivals if you enjoy the culture; the scenery if you want to admire nature; and the weather if you choose to be there in its absence of extreme temperatures. The precise understanding of the atmospheric conditions and the variations of the seasons brings you a clever plan that lets you enjoy Hanoi to the fullest. You will get four seasons in one trip to Hanoi. It does not matter if it is spring, summer, autumn, or winter, as the trip to Hanoi will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable journeys for travelers.
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We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. Firstly, North Vietnam Hanoi Tour will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city, with a half-day city tour, you will visit the most iconic attractions in Hanoi such as President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and the old quarter of Hanoi. After Hanoi, 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. Lastly, for ending two days of Inspirational Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Tour, we will spend one night stay on a cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world. Let’s explore the Magnificent North of Vietnam with Impress Travel.
HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Good morning, pick you up at Noi Bai International
Airport and transfer to Hanoi Capital city.
Check-in the hotel then have lunch at the restaurant.
Afternoon sightseeing tour begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum ( closed on Monday and Friday, every afternoon, and whole from 15 June – 15 August, view the outside the building). Inside the mausoleum, there are sightseeing of the Presidential Palace (view from outside), President’s Fishpond, House On Stilts, and One Pillar Pagoda.
Next, we will pay a visit to the Temple of Literature. It is where Confucius – The founder of Confucianism was worshiped. This place as known as the first National University of Vietnam. It is where kings, mandarins, talented people of Vietnam training to the functionary.
Our tour continues with an exciting visit. We will visit one of the most beautiful lakes in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. Then, we will go to the Ngoc Son Temple, which is in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Continue a short walking tour around the old quarter with a tour guide.
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day 02
HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Morning
Good morning, have breakfast at the hotel.
7.30 – 8.00 AM: Pick you up at your hotel in the Old Quarter and transfer to Tam Coc.
8.00 – 10.00 AM: After two hours of transferring, our tour guide will introduce you to Vietnam as the history, culture, lifestyle of local people. On the conical hat, we will have a mini-game show to teach you how to say and write some Vietnamese simple words such as Xin Chào, Tạm Biệt, Tôi yêu Ninh Bình, etc. We will give you a little souvenir and you can wear it during the trip.
10 AM: We will prepare for a boat trip to visit the beautiful Tam Coc. It takes 1.30 hours rowing along the Ngo Dong river through the three mysterious caves. You can enjoy spectacular scenery surrounded by rice paddies and towering limestone mountain peaks.
11.30 AM: We will get on Thanh pier for a short walk to visit Thai Vi Temple, which is one of the well-known temples in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. We will continue 10 minutes walking along majestic valley with rice fields, rivers and lotus ponds for Tam Coc Nature Lodge where we will relaxing
Enjoy your lunch in here – Vietnamese food.
Afternoon
1.30 PM: you have a chance to be a fisherman and learn how to catch the fish in the pond or river.
2:00 – 3:00 PM: We ride a bike to Thung Nang, along the river among the rice field, lotus ponds, and limestone Mountains. We will continue to through a peaceful Dan Khe Trong village. This area is a real picture of the rural countryside in the north of Vietnam.
3: 00 PM: Return the van, drive to visit Hoa Lu Ancient citadel which was built in the 10th century, and the temple dedicated to King Dinh and King Le
4:00 PM: Back to Hanoi Capital.
Evening
6:30 PM: Arrive in Hanoi & we will drop you at your hotel in the Old Quarter.
Have dinner is available on your request.
Overnight at the Hanoi Hotel.
Day Inclusions: Car/Mini-Van, Outstanding English speaking guide, Lunch – Vietnamese Cuisine at Tam Coc Nature Eco Lodge, All sightseeing tickets, Good bike with gears, 02 bottles of Mineral water, Services charges and government tax, Rowing boat to visit Tam Coc, One conical hat as souvenir, Demonstration of teaching to learn how to write, speak Vietnamese, and catch fish
Day 03
HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Good morning! Enjoy your with have breakfast at your hotel, then check-out the hotel.
07:30 am – 08:00: Pick up from your hotel to travel to Halong Bay (notice: pickup time can be a bit flexible depending on each different Cruise, distance Hanoi – Halong bay is 160km, a stop for break time on halfway for a refreshment).
You enjoy the drive and sightseeing the peaceful countryside scenery during the bus trip (4 hours), we arrive at the Ha Long bay seaport at around noontime.
12h 30: You will aboard the cruise, check-in & enjoy a welcome drink while your cabin will be assigned.
Check-in your cabin and put your luggage in, relax and may do a short inspection tour by moving around the cruise to discover about the cruise’s architecture & design
Enjoy the sumptuous lunch with fresh seafood meal while cruise slowly gliding out into the Halong bay.
15h00 – 16h00: Explore the amazing Sung Sot Cave – the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay.
16h00 – 17h00: Cruising to Titop Island. Go swimming and relaxing at the beach of Titop or climb up to the top of the island for a view panorama of Halong Bay.
17h00 – 17h30: Return to the boat, enjoying beautiful seascape on the way.
17h30 – 19h00: Enjoy Sunset Party on the sundeck and admire the best moments of the day when the sun starts to set.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
Day 04
HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Start your day with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt.
07h00 – 07h30 Have breakfast on board and enjoy the peaceful morning of Halong Bay.
08h30 – 09h30 Kayak among the hidden areas of the bay, around the Drum Cave.
09h45 Return to the boat. Freshen up and check out of your cabin.
10h00 – 10h30 Continue your cruise exploring the Bay, passing Ba Hang fishing village, Dog Islet, and more.
10h30 – 11h30 while heading back to the harbor, watch the fruit carving demonstration and participate in the Cooking Class before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
11h45 – 12h00 Disembark V’Spirit Classic.
12h15 – 12h30 Transfer back to Hanoi.
About 16:00 – Arrival back to Hanoi central city, recheck in the hotel
Dinner is available on your request.
Free time & Overnight in Hanoi city
Day 05
HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Good morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, you have some free time to explore Hanoi city before going to Noi Bai airport for your scheduled flight.
The end of the tour, thank you and see you again!
What’s included in this trip :
A/C accommodation with DOUBLE or TWIN ROOM (2 persons share 1 room; single room can be available on request) with daily breakfast
A/C transfer from Airports to the hotel and other tourist destinations according to the itinerary
Bus round trip to Hanoi – Ha Long Bay; (private land transfer available on request)
2 days 1 night on Joint Cruise trip in Ha Long Bay, with DOUBLE or TWIN (2 persons share 1 cabin; single cabin can be available on request), full meals on board
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
Meals as indicated in the itinerary. (Breakfast = 04; Lunch = 04; Dinner = 01)
English- speaking guides as specified (Chinese/ Malaysian speaking guide can be available on request)
Entrance fees
Mineral water (2 bottles/ per day with sightseeing tour)
What’s excluded in this trip:
All international and domestic flights
Specified as Chinese/ Malaysian/ Indonesian/Thai speaking guide can be available on request to pay for extra-fee.
Travel Insurance
Airport taxes
All meals not mentioned
Tips for tour guides, drivers, crew members in Ha Long Bay, other attendants if may have (3 USD/pax/day)
Other personal expenses not mentioned.
3 STAR HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Room Type
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Hanoi 3-star Hotels
Adamas Deluxe City
ADAMAS HANOI HOTEL Refer: http://swancruiseshalong.com/
3-star Halong Bay Cruises
Swan Cruise Deluxe
SWAN CRUISE HALONG BAY
Refer: http://swancruiseshalong.com/
4 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Room Type
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Hanoi 4-star Hotels
The light deluxe with window
THE LIGHT HOTEL HANOI
Refer: thelighthotelhanoi.com/en/
4-star Halong Bay Cruises
Sealife Suite Canbin
HUONG HAI SEALIFE CRUISE HALONG BAY
Refer: www.sealifegroup.com
5 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Hotel Category
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Hanoi 5-star hotels
Deluxe Sketch Apricot Hotel
APRICOT HOTEL HANOI
Refer: apricothotels.com/room/sketch
5-star Halong bay Cruises
Deluxe Room with Ocean View Margaret
MARGARET CRUISE HALONG BAY
Refer: https://margaretcruises.com
The hotels and cruise are subject to change to similar category in case of fully booked
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.
Derek.Schooling
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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