Best place to visit Vietnam in February

Best place to visit Vietnam in February

In February, Vietnam is at its best with sunny weather all around. It’s a busy month, the second busiest of the year. The highlight is Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, bringing vibrant festivals and lively celebrations throughout the country.

Weather

In February, Vietnam enjoys clear blue skies, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable temperatures with minimal rainfall.

Central and Southern Vietnam offer perfect beach weather, with resorts like Danang and Hoi An averaging around 77°F (25°C). Inland areas like Dalat are a bit cooler, ideal for hiking. Further south, places like Pan Thiet and Ho Tram see temperatures of 79-86°F (26-30°C), with occasional light showers. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong delta are even warmer, but still comfortable. Light rain helps to moderate the temperatures.

In the northern regions, temperatures are cooler and often overcast, misty, or foggy, particularly at night. Places like Sapa can be quite cold, averaging 63°F/17°C. It’s advisable to pack a warm jacket, especially for cooler evenings or highland areas.

Crowdedness & Expenses

February is considered high season, attracting more tourists compared to January or March, particularly in central and southern Vietnam where the weather is comfortably warm and less humid. Northern Vietnam stays cool with fewer visitors despite being the dry season. The Vietnamese New Year (Tet) sees many locals traveling back to their hometowns, resulting in temporary closures of shops, restaurants, and museums.

Interestingly, flight prices to and from Vietnam are lower in February compared to the summer or mid-winter months. Accommodation prices remain relatively stable throughout the year, with February rates slightly higher than the annual average. Ho Chi Minh City may have higher lodging costs, while February offers the most affordable accommodations in Hanoi compared to other months of the year.

Where to go

February is an ideal time for a beach getaway with sunny weather and pleasant temperatures. Relax on the tranquil Phu Quoc or Con Dao islands in southern Vietnam or combine urban exploration in Ho Chi Minh City with a beach retreat at Ho Tram or Phan Thiet coastal resorts.

For those seeking adventure, head to northern Vietnam where spring blooms near the Bach Ma mountains. Enjoy mild temperatures for mountain treks near Sapa or strolls in the ancient town of Hoi An. Explore the diverse cultural tapestry of Hanoi, filled with historic pagodas, stunning architecture, unique museums, and vibrant Tet celebrations.

Experience the vibrant Lantern Festival during Tet in Hoi An, where the city comes alive with colorful lanterns and traditional workshops compete to create a mesmerizing display. Join the seven-day celebration in the old town, take a sampan boat ride among floating lanterns, and set your own lantern afloat for good luck.

What to do

February marks the ideal time to explore the vibrant floating markets and scenic river life in the Mekong Delta. With the water levels high, it’s a bustling period to witness the local river culture, visit Khmer pagodas, and picturesque stilted villages surrounded by rice paddies. Adventure seekers can experience the traditional cargo boat lifestyle by sleeping under the stars in a hammock or opt for a more comfortable journey through commercial cruise packages from Vinh Long or other river ports.

In Hue, located along the Perfume River between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, historical wonders await. Explore the city like a local by biking or taking a cyclo taxi to significant sites such as Vong Canh Hill for panoramic views, the serene Tu Hieu pagoda amidst a pine forest, the tomb of Emperor Minh Mang, and the majestic walled Imperial Citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

February Events

Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, is the most essential festival of the year, occurring between late January and mid-February. Lasting a week, it is celebrated nationwide with various unique festivities in different cities.

Quang Trung: A celebration at Hanoi’s Dong Da Mound on the fifth day of the first lunar month, featuring drum performances, lion dances, and human chess to honor the uprising against the Chinese army led by Emperor Quang Trung (Nguyen Hue) in 1788.

Perfume Pagoda Festival: Following Tet, this pilgrimage festival is held at the Huong Pagoda, a revered Buddhist site southwest of Hanoi. Known as one of Vietnam’s most significant festivals, it draws pilgrims to the sacred site about 40 miles from Hanoi.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam in February, consider these fantastic itineraries:

Highlights of Vietnam – 12 days: Explore iconic sites from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and experience Vietnam’s most enchanting locations.

Trekking in Rural Vietnam – 4 Days: This 4-day itinerary is perfect for active travelers and those looking for a deep cultural experience. Trek between villages inhabited by Vietnamese hill tribes for a unique and immersive journey.