{"id":588,"date":"2026-01-21T02:16:30","date_gmt":"2026-01-20T17:16:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/?p=588"},"modified":"2026-08-02T07:21:37","modified_gmt":"2026-08-01T22:21:37","slug":"hanoi-best-season","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/travel-guide\/hanoi-best-season\/","title":{"rendered":"The best seasons for a Hanoi trip are spring and autumn! A month-by-month look at the climate and the times to avoid"},"content":{"rendered":"

Among those planning a Hanoi trip, some may be wondering, \"Which month is the most comfortable to go?\" \"Should I avoid the hot season?\"<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Southeast Asia has an image of being \"summer all year,\" but Hanoi, like Japan, has four seasons, and the temperature and rainfall change greatly by season.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article explains, from a resident's perspective, Hanoi's best season, the month-by-month climate, clothing, and recommended timing by tourist spot.<\/p>\n\n\n

\"\"<\/div>
\n

A must-read for anyone who wants to travel aiming for the best season.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

The features of Hanoi's climate and month-by-month weather data<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Hanoi's month-by-month weather data<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

Scroll to see more <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n
Month<\/th>Average high<\/th>Average low<\/th>Average rainfall<\/th>Travel suitability<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
January<\/td>21\u2103<\/td>13\u2103<\/td>30mm<\/td>x Cold, air pollution<\/td><\/tr>
February<\/td>21\u2103<\/td>16\u2103<\/td>20mm<\/td>x Cold, air pollution<\/td><\/tr>
March<\/td>24\u2103<\/td>17\u2103<\/td>60mm<\/td>O More sunny days<\/td><\/tr>
April<\/td>26\u2103<\/td>21\u2103<\/td>90mm<\/td>O Many days with good weather<\/td><\/tr>
May<\/td>30\u2103<\/td>23\u2103<\/td>190mm<\/td>\u25b3 Rainy season begins, gets hot<\/td><\/tr>
June<\/td>32\u2103<\/td>25\u2103<\/td>250mm<\/td>x Scorching heat<\/td><\/tr>
July<\/td>33\u2103<\/td>27\u2103<\/td>300mm<\/td>x Scorching heat<\/td><\/tr>
August<\/td>34\u2103<\/td>26\u2103<\/td>330mm<\/td>\u25b3 Typhoons can come<\/td><\/tr>
September<\/td>32\u2103<\/td>24\u2103<\/td>250mm<\/td>O Good climate but watch for typhoons<\/td><\/tr>
October<\/td>29\u2103<\/td>21\u2103<\/td>120mm<\/td>\u25ce Best season<\/td><\/tr>
November<\/td>27\u2103<\/td>18\u2103<\/td>30mm<\/td>\u3007<\/td><\/tr>
December<\/td>22\u2103<\/td>15\u2103<\/td>20mm<\/td>x Cold, air pollution<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Source: Hanoi climate, time difference, immigration, prohibited items, etc. (ANA)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

*Temperatures and rainfall are guidelines for normal values. They vary by year.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hanoi has loose four seasons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hanoi is said to have four seasons, but summer and winter are long, while autumn and spring are short, about a month each. It varies by year, but the guideline is as follows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hanoi's four seasons<\/span><\/div>
\n
    \n
  • Mid-March to early May<\/strong>: spring<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
      \n
    • Mid-May to September<\/strong>: summer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
        \n
      • October to November<\/strong>: autumn<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
          \n
        • December to mid-March<\/strong>: winter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

          Winter turns cold, and summer stays above 38 degrees<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

          Some may imagine that, hearing \"Southeast Asian winter,\" the climate is one you can spend in a thin long-sleeved shirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          But Hanoi's winter has days that stay below 10 degrees.<\/span><\/strong>If you carelessly sightsee in a thin jacket, you might catch a cold.<\/p>\n\n\n

          \"\"<\/div>
          \n

          One or two days a year, there are days when a thick down jacket is needed.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

          Conversely, summer, May to July, is a harsh season with days above 35 degrees continuing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          For anyone who wants to walk around the city of Hanoi sightseeing, or to look closely at outdoor heritage, we recommend avoiding the summer and winter periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Air pollution worsens in the city of Hanoi in winter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

          The air pollution problem in the city of Hanoi is serious.The Air Quality Index (AQI), which shows the degree of air pollution, can reach 200 as a citywide average, sometimes making it the world's most polluted city.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Also, in winter the daylight hours are short and cloudy days are common.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          For anyone who wants to sightsee on a clear day, or who has health concerns, avoiding this period is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \u30cf\u30ce\u30a4\u89b3\u5149\u306e\u30d9\u30b9\u30c8\u30b7\u30fc\u30ba\u30f3\u306f3\uff5e4\u6708\u30689\u301c11\u6708<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
          \"\"
          Photo by the author: Hanoi's blue sky<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

          The most comfortable time for Hanoi sightseeing isMarch to April and September to November<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          The climate features of March to April<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
            \n
          • Average high: 24 to 26\u00b0C<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Average low: 17 to 21\u00b0C<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Sunny rate: on the higher side, many days with continuing blue skies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

            The climate features of September to November<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
              \n
            • Average high: 27 to 32\u00b0C<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Average low: 18 to 24\u00b0C<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Sunny rate: on the higher side, many days with continuing blue skies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

              October to November especially is crisp like Japan's autumn, not too hot, and ideal for city sightseeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Watch out for typhoons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              September to November has more days with good climate, butit overlaps with the typhoon season from mid-August into September.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              There are days with very strong wind and rain, so caution is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n

              \"\"<\/div>
              \n

              During the 2024 and 2025 typhoon seasons, flooding occurred all over the city of Hanoi, and there were days when you couldn't move.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

              Depending on the typhoon situation, ride-hailing apps like Grab can become unusable too. Check the weather forecast in advance and, on days with strong wind and rain, avoid forcing yourself to go out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Times better avoided: June to August<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

              From June to August, scorching heat above 35 degrees continues. It's also not unusual for humidity to exceed 90%.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              For those who \"can only go during this period,\" we recommend building a route centered on museums and indoor cafes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              When doing outdoor sightseeing, we recommend the early-morning hours. Evening sightseeing is recommended too, but some ruins and museums close early, so check the hours in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              In Vietnam, compared with Japan, you need to be careful with untreated water, raw vegetables, ice, undercooked dishes, and poorly stored food.
              On hot days especially the risk of food poisoning rises, so take ample care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Clothing and what to bring by season<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
              \"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

              Best season (September to November, March to April)<\/h3>\n\n\n
              Scroll to see more <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n
              Item<\/th>Necessity<\/th>Note<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
              Thin jacket or cardigan<\/td>Essential<\/td>For the morning and evening chill<\/td><\/tr>
              Short-sleeved T-shirt<\/td>Essential<\/td>It's warm during the day<\/td><\/tr>
              Sneakers<\/td>Recommended<\/td>Essential for walking the Old Quarter<\/td><\/tr>
              All-weather umbrella<\/td>Recommended<\/td>For sun and squalls<\/td><\/tr>
              Sunscreen<\/td>Essential<\/td>UV is strong all year<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

              Rainy season (May to August)<\/h3>\n\n\n
              Scroll to see more <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n
              Item<\/th>Necessity<\/th>Note<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
              Short-sleeved T-shirt<\/td>Essential<\/td>Quick-drying material recommended \u25ce<\/td><\/tr>
              Thin jacket or cardigan<\/td>Recommended<\/td>For the cold inside hotels and restaurants<\/td><\/tr>
              All-weather umbrella<\/td>Recommended<\/td>For sun and squalls<\/td><\/tr>
              Hydration gear<\/td>Essential<\/td>High risk of heatstroke<\/td><\/tr>
              Hat and sunglasses<\/td>Recommended<\/td>UV protection<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

              Winter (December to February)<\/h3>\n\n\n
              Scroll to see more <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n
              Item<\/th>Necessity<\/th>Note<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
              Jacket or sweater<\/td>Essential<\/td>It can drop below 10\u00b0C<\/td><\/tr>
              Long-sleeved shirt<\/td>Essential<\/td>Layering is basic<\/td><\/tr>
              Thick socks<\/td>Handy to have<\/td>For the chilly nights<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

              Even in winter, some days are humid and hot, so clothing you can adjust is recommended.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              The best season for sights around Hanoi<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

              The best season for sightseeing in the city of Hanoi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              For those who want to enjoy walking the town, March to May and October to November are recommended.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Summer has high humidity and isn't suited to walking around town. And winter has low temperatures, but air pollution worsens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              For sightseeing outside the best season, spend it taking indoor breaks at reasonable intervals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              The best season for Ha Long Bay sightseeing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
              \"\"
              Photo by the author<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

              March to May and October to November are recommended.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              The winter of December to February is cold, and in the September typhoon season, cruise boats touring Ha Long Bay may be canceled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              If you go during the hot season, an afternoon-departure cruise boat is recommended. In the evening the temperature drops and you can enjoy the sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              The best season for Ninh Binh and Trang An<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
              \"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

              Trang An, called \"the Ha Long Bay on land,\" and Ninh Binh, home to the old capital \"Hoa Lu,\" are sightseeing spots you can reach within 2 hours by car from Hanoi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Trang An is famous for tours you take by boat, butMarch to May and October to November are recommended.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

              it gets crowded on holidays and in the tourist season. Also, since you tour by boat with no shade, aiming for the cool morning hours to board is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

              When is Hanoi's rainy season?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              May to October is the rainy season. Rainfall peaks especially from June to August. During this period it rarely rains all day, but keep an umbrella ready for sudden rain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              How is traveling during Tet (Lunar New Year)?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              Tet is late January to early February, but it varies by year. Since many Vietnamese return to their hometowns, the city of Hanoi goes quiet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Many shops aren't open, but tourist spots are relatively empty, which you could call a hidden opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              How does the climate differ between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              Hanoi has four seasons, and winter (January to February) cools to the low teens Celsius. Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate of 25 to 35\u00b0C year-round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Choosing which one to go to based on your travel timing is one approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Is there a typhoon worry for a Hanoi trip?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              August to September is a time when typhoons approach northern Vietnam easily. Typhoons can cause heavy rain. For a September trip especially, checking the latest weather information just in case gives peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Is Hanoi's winter really cold? Totally different from the Southeast Asia image?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              In January, lows can drop below 10\u00b0C. Don't assume \"it's Southeast Asia so summer clothes are enough.\" Be sure to bring warm clothing, even if thin.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

              An explanation of the best season for a Hanoi trip based on month-by-month climate data. It lays out the features of the dry and rainy seasons, and differences in temperature and humidity, and introduces the optimal time to comfortably enjoy sightseeing, city strolls, and food. A practical guide covering clothing guidelines, seasons to avoid, and how beginners can choose a travel time without failing.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":590,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"swell_btn_cv_data":"","ssp_meta_description":"\u30cf\u30ce\u30a4\u306f\u6771\u5357\u30a2\u30b8\u30a2\u306a\u306e\u306b\u56db\u5b63\u304c\u3042\u308b\u7279\u6b8a\u306a\u90fd\u5e02\u30021\u670810\u2103\u3092\u4e0b\u56de\u308a6\u670835\u2103\u8d85\u306e\u632f\u308c\u5e45\u3092\u77e5\u3089\u305a\u306b\u884c\u304f\u3068\u904e\u9177\u306b\u3002\u6708\u5225\u6c17\u5019\u30c7\u30fc\u30bf\u3068\u300c\u3044\u3064\u304c\u5feb\u9069\u300d\u300c\u907f\u3051\u308b\u3079\u304d\u5b63\u7bc0\u300d\u3092\u5728\u4f4f\u8005\u304c\u6b63\u76f4\u306b\u89e3\u8aac\u3057\u307e\u3059\u3002","ssp_meta_keyword":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[56],"tags":[22,229,275],"purpose":[130,131],"keyword":[],"location":[299,424],"class_list":["post-588","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-guide","tag-hanoi","tag-vietnam-travel","tag-travel-guide-tag","purpose-travel","purpose-sightseeing","location-hanoi","location-northern-vietnam"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/588","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=588"}],"version-history":[{"count":44,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/588\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4257,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/588\/revisions\/4257"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/590"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=588"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=588"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=588"},{"taxonomy":"purpose","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/purpose?post=588"},{"taxonomy":"keyword","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/keyword?post=588"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vietnam-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=588"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}