Vietnam Weather During Lunar New Year: Complete Travel Guide
Vietnam’s Lunar New Year is one of the most fascinating times to visit the country — culturally rich, festive, and full of local traditions. But before locking in flights and hotels, one question matters most for travelers: what is the weather actually like during the holiday?
Because Vietnam stretches over 1,600 km from north to south, weather conditions during Lunar New Year vary dramatically by region. This guide breaks it all down so you can plan smarter, pack better, and choose destinations that truly shine during this season.
Lunar New Year usually falls between late January and mid-February
Northern Vietnam is cool, humid, and sometimes misty
Central Vietnam is unpredictable, with lingering rain
Southern Vietnam enjoys warm, dry, beach-friendly weather
Weather-wise, the South is the safest choice during Tết
When Is Lunar New Year in Vietnam?
Lunar New Year does not follow the Gregorian calendar. It typically falls between January 20 and February 20, depending on the lunar cycle.
Despite the shifting dates, Vietnam’s weather patterns during this period remain fairly consistent year to year. Late January and February sit firmly in the dry season for the South and winter for the North, which makes long-term planning much easier than it sounds.
Vietnam Weather Overview During Lunar New Year
Across the country, Lunar New Year marks a transition period:
Cooler temperatures compared to summer
Lower rainfall overall, especially in the South
Higher humidity in northern regions
Calm seas in southern coastal areas
That said, Vietnam should never be treated as “one climate.” Regional differences matter — a lot.
Northern Vietnam Weather During Chinese New Year
Northern Vietnam experiences winter during Lunar New Year.
Average temperature: 10–20°C
Conditions: Cool, humid, frequent mist and light drizzle
Snow: Rare but possible in high-altitude areas like Sapa
Hanoi and Ha Long Bay often feel colder than expected due to humidity. Fog is common, especially in coastal and limestone areas, which can limit visibility on cruises.
Good for:
City exploration
Cultural sightseeing
Hot food, cafés, museums
Less ideal for:
Scenic cruises
Outdoor photography
Mountain trekking in poor visibility
Central Vietnam Weather During Chinese New Year
Central Vietnam sits between monsoon systems, making Lunar New Year a bit of a gamble.
Average temperature: 18–25°C
Conditions: Mixed sunshine and rain
Sea conditions: Can be choppy, especially early in the season
While rain is less intense than in late autumn, short showers are still common. Beach days are possible, but not guaranteed.
Good for:
Cultural travel
Short city stays
Food-focused trips
Risk factors:
Rain disrupting beach plans
Unpredictable weather patterns
Southern Vietnam Weather During Lunar New Year
(Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)
Southern Vietnam offers the best weather in the country during Lunar New Year.
Average temperature: 25–33°C
Conditions: Sunny, dry, low humidity
Rainfall: Minimal
This is peak season for beach destinations like Phu Quoc and an excellent time to explore Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta without extreme heat or rain.
Perfect for:
Beach holidays
Island hopping
Outdoor activities
First-time travelers
Best Destinations in Vietnam During Lunar New Year (Weather-Based)
Best overall weather: Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City
Best cultural experience: Hanoi (with warm layers)
Best beaches: Phu Quoc, southern islands
Best food-focused trips: Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An
What to Pack for Vietnam During Lunar New Year
Packing smart makes a huge difference during the occasion.
North Vietnam:
Light jacket or coat
Long pants and closed shoes
Scarf or light sweater
Central Vietnam:
Light layers
Compact rain jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Southern Vietnam:
Breathable clothing
Sun protection
Sandals or beachwear
Weather-Related Travel Tips During Lunar New Year
Flights and transport sell out fast, regardless of weather
Northern fog may cause cruise delays in Ha Long Bay
Beaches in the South are busiest due to ideal conditions
Always build buffer days into your itinerary
Is Lunar New Year a Good Time to Travel to Vietnam?
From a weather perspective, yes — if you choose the right region.
Southern Vietnam offers near-perfect conditions
Northern Vietnam is atmospheric but chilly
Central Vietnam requires flexibility
From a cultural perspective, Lunar New Year is unmatched. Cities slow down, family traditions come alive, and travelers get a rare look at Vietnam’s most important holiday.
