I’m a photography enthusiast, and the landscapes in Northwest Vietnam seem incredible for capturing scenic views. Are there any specific spots that are particularly photogenic...
Hanoi has its own charm to attract tourists every year. From ancient temples, 1000-year history to bustling modern nightlife, Hanoi has it all to offer any kind of travelers. With its special geographical location, Hanoi has a distinctive characteristic in weather that I think is more important to note before you actually get here. What is the best time to visit Hanoi? Any tips to deal with the unexpected weather? Please read on until the end!
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1. Hanoi weather in general
The southwest monsoon and the South China Sea influence provide Hanoi's humid tropical climate with its characteristic four seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. This causes Hanoi to experience hot, rainy summers and super chilly, damp winters. Hanoi's winters and summers are very harsh when compared to those of other Southeast Asian countries, so it is necessary to note these when you travel during these seasons.
1.1. Hanoi in Spring (February - April)
The months of February and April are typical for Hanoi's springtime. Hanoi experiences moderate to frigid temperatures ( around 14-20 degrees Celcius) in the spring, however the humidity can reach up to 90% (it is super wet everywhere so be careful with your steps). One of Hanoi's defining features is the city's typically modest spring rain. Since this climate pattern encourages plant growth and flowering, spring is the best time to visit Hanoi in full bloom.
Hanoi's celebrations peak in the springtime. Among the various events held in the city, the Tet Festival is the most significant. In Vietnam, families and friends gather towards the end of January or in the middle of February to celebrate Tet Nguyen Dan, more often known as the Tet holiday. The city is experiencing a flurry of popularity, marked by vibrant cultural outbursts.
The locals all dress up for the occasion and the streets are decked and lit up for the occasion. Different resorts and hotels also have their own parties and event. On the other hand, due to the Tet holidays, it is possible that most hotels and transportation options will be fully booked and that some tourist hotspots, such a select number of museums and stores, will be closed. During Tet, when the entire country is in a festive spirit, you can truly appreciate the nuances of Vietnamese culture.
The ideal months to visit Hanoi in spring are March and April, when temperatures average 20-24 degrees. You can enjoy the numerous sights of Hanoi on foot under clear blue sky and comfortable temperatures. In addition to satiating your hunger with some of Hanoi's most delicious specialties like various kinds of Vietnamese Noodles, Banh Mi, rice, you should use this time to check out popular tourist sites in this ancient city like Hoan Kiem Lake, One Pillar Pagoda or Westlake.
See more: 15 Cool and Unique Things to Do in Hanoi
1.2. Hanoi in Summer (May-August)
In contrast to the mild temperatures of spring, summer brings scorching heat and unexpected downpours in the late afternoon. The global warming problem makes the summers in Hanoi particularly harsh, with average temperatures of 30 degrees. And particularly, these days in Hanoi, it could reach more than 40 degrees Celsius.
Summers in Hanoi are known for their heavy rain, therefore visitors are advised to pack an umbrella or raincoat before venturing out. Some areas of the city may be flooded for many hours during the summer due to the large quantity of rainfall, making traffic difficult. However, the summer months are still among the best months to visit Hanoi and sample the country's wide variety of exotic tropical fruits, including dragon fruit, jackfruit, lychee, and many more.
The temperature in May is mild compared to the rest of the summer. In May, you can expect temperatures of about 28 degrees Celsius and mostly cloudless sky. However, June ushers in full summer with temperatures between 29 and 33 degrees Celsius. Summertime highs might also reach 40 degrees. The highest temperatures and first significant rains often occur in June. The heaviest rain falls in July and August, and it can reach 200 millimeters or more. The humidity, however, is much above 75% all through the summer. Because of the high heat and frequent rainfall, summer is generally not a popular time to visit Hanoi. However, this means that rates are lower, lodging is more accessible and inexpensive, and bookings can be made with more ease.
See more: Wet Season in Vietnam - What To Do and Where To go?
1.3. Hanoi in Autumn (September - October)
September and October make up the relatively brief autumn season. Very little precipitation falls during this season, and the temperature is often mild and pleasant, with just a slight increase in humidity. If you plan to travel to Hanoi in autumn, you will fall in love immediately with this city, no kidding! With an average temperature of 25 degrees, pleasant sunlight, and chilly wind, autumn is the most lovely season in Hanoi.
For many people, autumn is the favourite time to travel to Hanoi
It's the perfect time to go sightseeing in Hanoi and the neighboring areas. Actually, you will settle for almost anything in Hanoi during the fall. Visit one of the area's numerous thriving retail centers or fine dining restaurants for some treats. To learn about the city's history, you should take a stroll through the congested streets of Old Quarter, where hawkers abound. Or you can take a tour to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, West Lake, Hoa Lo Prison Memorial, Temple of Jade Mountain, and Dong Xuan Market - these are a few of the sights that you may get interested in.
If you crave food, you might wander from market to stall eating great street cuisine. It's nice enough outside to go window shopping and eat street cuisine without worrying too much about the heat, humidity, rain, or cold. In addition, fall is full of exciting celebrations and festivities. In autumn, you must try Cốm - young rice with a light green color that you will find on street vendors. The slight fragrance of lotus leaf wrapping Cốm is truly the taste of Hanoi autumn that I cannot resist telling you!
See more: The Top 10 Hanoi Dishes You Cannot Miss
1.4. Hanoi in Winter (November - January)
Hanoi experiences all four seasons, and winter lasts for a few months from the end of the year until the beginning of next year. Temperatures are often low, averaging just around 11 degrees Celsius. Cold and wet weather is typical throughout the winter months. As a result of the monsoon, December and January in Hanoi may be bitterly cold, with thick fog producing a surreal scene. Winds and excessive humidity compound the chill of the low temperatures, making it feel much less bearable than it actually is.
Winter in Hanoi experience cold weather
Cloudy weather and overcast sky are the norm in Hanoi winter. Visitors to Hanoi in the winter should pack warm clothes to avoid catching a chill. Winter in Hanoi may be frigid, but the city's famed hot pot and BBQ dishes are a great way to warm up. You will see a lot of hotpot kiosks and food stalls at night selling this, so give it a try. What else? For a chilly day, nothing beats a steaming mug of coffee and a bowl of warm noodles. Have a hot bowl of any kind of noodle (Hanoi is not all about Pho) and have an egg coffee. Perfect!
What about special events or celebrations? Christmas is not a Vietnamese national holiday but people love hanging out during Christmas. On Christmas Eve, you can go to the Hanoi Cathedral or buy at the Old Quarters Christmas market. The Annual Flower Festival is always enjoyable and takes place the last week of December. Depending on when January ends and February begins, the Tet Festival may occur then. Therefore, it is recommended that you confirm the event dates in advance.
2. When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
Hanoi is suitable for visiting all year round. The best time for tourists to visit Hanoi varies based on your preference. Overall, the months of November through June are the nicest time to visit Hanoi in terms of temperature, while the months of November through February are the finest in terms of festivals and a cozy winter atmosphere. Hanoi is an Instagrammer's paradise, with picture-perfect settings around every corner at any time.
The best time to visit Hanoi is sunny days with some blooms
However, there are times that should be considered before going.
June, July and August are the first ones I want you to consider before going because of the hot, humid, and wet monsoon weather. Therefore, if you value having a pleasant climate, it is not the time to go on an adventure. Hanoi has harsh weather and drizzling showers in July, which can cause floods in the city and make a day trip to the countryside unpleasant. This might mean spending the day or weekend inside rather than exploring Hanoi.
Plan some alternatives for rainy days in Hanoi
Another period that you should research more before coming to Hanoi is around Tet, which often occurs at the start of February. Many restaurants, stores, and landmarks will be closed in observance of the year's most important holiday. Many Vietnamese people leave Hanoi and return to their rural villages during this time. This is not the greatest time to visit Hanoi if you want to see everything the city has to offer. But if you want to see the tranquil side of Hanoi and “Tet greeting" tradition, it is nice to experience.
Spring is a great time to go to Hanoi to enjoy the festive atmosphere
See more: Best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter
3. Travel tips for your memorable Hanoi trip
Once you've decided on the best time to go to Hanoi, you should be prepared for the possibility of encountering less-than-ideal weather as well. Let's get yourself some tricks to handle Hanoi's unpredictable climate.
Better to have an umbrella or raincoat with you
Weather in Hanoi can be very “naughty”, sunny in the morning and rainy in the afternoon. It is nice if you have an umbrella to keep you dry or prevent from being irritated by the changing weather.
On wet days, you can choose from a wide variety of fun, indoor activities.
Don't let the gloomy weather bring you down. If the rain stops you from the outdoor plan, don't forget to have a backup plan with amazing choices of indoor affair. Watching a water puppet performance, taking a pottery lesson, a Vietnamese cooking class, or just relaxing with a cup of coffee and watching the rain fall outside is more than enough to have a perfect day in Hanoi.
If you’re visiting Hanoi in the summer, don’t forget your anti-insect cream/spray
You know, because of humid weather, there are mosquitoes and you can be the victim of them, which is quite irritating. Preparing yourself the cream to prevent the insect bite is much better for a pleasant trip.
If you're visiting Hanoi in the winter, make sure to bring enough warm clothes.
Bringing a light jacket or cardigan is a must if you plan on visiting Hanoi outside of December and January when temperatures drop significantly. The low temperatures combined with light rain makes the weather much more freezing.
As you've discovered, Hanoi's weather makes it a fantastic place to visit any time of year. So, whenever you're ready to plan your trip to Hanoi and Northern Vietnam, Izitour is here to help make the most of your experience.
Whether you have questions, need personalized recommendations, or want to book a tour, our team is ready to assist you every step of the way, both online and on the ground. Reach out to us at IZI Package Tours or sm@izitour.com. We can't wait to help you create your perfect Hanoi adventure!
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