Best Time For A Family Holiday In Vietnam

During a family holiday, especially families with young children, you need to pay special attention to the specific weather at the destination.

The best time to travel with children is in spring, early summer or autumn. This is also the time when children get to take a break for major holidays and holidays of the year, such as Christmas, Easter, winter break, summer vacation and spring vacation, etc.

Vietnam weather overview

Northern Vietnam

North of Vietnam has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

• Spring lasts from February to April and is characterized by warm and comfortable temperatures ranging from 20 to 21°C.
• Summer spans from May to July and is known for prolonged hot spells and occasional thunderstorms, with the highest temperatures reaching 37-38°C.
• Autumn falls from August to October, with decreasing temperatures, misty mornings, and slightly chilly evenings, offering pleasant weather with clear blue skies.
• Winter, from November to January, starts getting colder with temperatures averaging around 15°C, and there may be drizzles and foggy conditions. In some places in the Northwest region, there may be frost, ice, and even snow. Popular destinations during this season include Mai Chau, Sa Pa, and Mu Cang Chai.

Central Vietnam

The climate of Central Vietnam is mild and consists of two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

The climate characteristics also vary slightly across three main regions: the South-Central Coast, the North- Central Coast, and the Central Highlands. The best time to visit Central Vietnam is during the dry season, which lasts from January to around August. The weather during this time is sunny and warm, making it ideal for beach activities.

In early August and September, there may be heavy rainfall in the region. However, the prolonged heavy rainfall often occurs in October and November, with rainfall amounts in the provinces of Central Vietnam exceeding 350mm. Prolonged heavy rainfall can lead to extreme phenomena such as floods, landslides, and soil erosion, especially in riverbank areas where both sides are vulnerable to collapse and erosion.

Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam is generally warm and humid all year round, with two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. The best time to visit southern Vietnam is during the dry season when the weather is more pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

If you travel during the rainy season, you may encounter heavy rain, flooding, and occasional typhoons, which can disrupt travel plans and activities. However, the rainy season also brings a unique charm to the region, with fewer tourists, lush vegetation, and the chance to experience the local life during the traditional Tet holiday.

Recommended based on weather

Based on Vietnam weather conditions, the best time for a family holiday is from November to March, and from June to August. During this time, the weather is both cool and a good time for family holidays, including Christmas, spring vacation, and summer vacation.

Tourist seasons

The peak season of domestic tourism in Vietnam is from June to August and during the Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year), which usually falls in January or February, while the peak season of international tourism in Vietnam is from November to March, coinciding with the cool and dry season in the northern and central regions of the country. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, sightseeing, and beach-going. Popular destinations during this season include Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.

In addition to the favorable weather conditions, there are also many cultural and historical attractions that draw visitors to Vietnam, such as the ancient temples of Hanoi, the imperial city of Hue, and the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City.

The low season of domestic tourism in Vietnam is from September to October, while the low season of international tourism in Vietnam is from April to May and from September to November. During these periods, the weather can be unpredictable with occasional rainfall and storms, especially in the central and southern regions.

In general, if you travel during the peak season, there will be more activities for children to participate in, especially during the summer vacation period from June to August. This is because it’s the longest school break, so most families will go on vacation during this time. However, if you travel during the low season, there is also an advantage that it won’t be too crowded, which is better for children than going to a place that’s too crowded.

Festivals and events information for a family holiday in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse range of festivals and events throughout the year. These events offer an excellent opportunity for families, especially children, to experience the country’s traditions and customs, as well as engage with the local people.

Major festivals and events in Vietnam:

Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year): Celebrated in late January or early February, Tet is the most significant festival in Vietnam. Families gather to welcome the new year and pay tribute to their ancestors. Tet is a time of renewal, and the country comes to a standstill during this time.

Hue Festival: This biennial festival in the city of Hue celebrates the rich culture and history of the former capital of Vietnam. The festival features music, dance, theater, and art exhibitions.

Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (usually in September), the Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family gatherings and children’s activities. Mooncakes, a traditional pastry, are a popular treat during this festival.

Hoi An Lantern Festival: Held monthly in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Hoi An, this festival features hundreds of colorful lanterns lit up along the streets and floating on the river. There are also traditional music performances, food vendors, and games.

Da Lat Flower Festival: Held every two years in the city of Da Lat, this festival celebrates the region’s beautiful flowers and agriculture. Visitors can enjoy flower exhibitions, parades, and music performances

Participating in these festivals and events can provide families with an immersive cultural experience and create lasting memories. However, it’s important to note that these events can also impact a family holiday in Vietnam in several ways. For example, during Tet, many businesses and tourist attractions may close, and transportation may be more challenging to arrange. Additionally, accommodation prices may be higher during popular festivals and events.

Recommended seasons for families interested in experiencing festivals and events

For families interested in attending festivals and events, it’s recommended to visit Vietnam during the corresponding seasons. For example, the Hue Festival takes place in April or May, and the Mid-Autumn Festival is in September. In short, the ideal time for families to visit Vietnam is from November to April and from June to August.