Best place to visit Vietnam in January

Halong Bay is one of the most stunning destinations in Vietnam.January is an ideal time to visit Vietnam as it’s past the hot rainy season. You can enjoy sunshine and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the beaches of central Vietnam. It’s also a festive time as the country celebrates Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, with a six-day-long joyful celebration.

Weather:

In January, Vietnam is mostly sunny with blue skies. Northern areas like Hanoi can be chilly and foggy, with some showers. Pack warm clothes for places like Sapa that might even get snow. Halong Bay can be hazy. In central and southern Vietnam, it’s warmer with beach resorts seeing temperatures between 68°F (20°C) and 86°F (30°C). Bring light clothing, swimwear, and some warm clothes for evenings and mornings.

Crowdedness & Expenses

January is a peak tourist season in Vietnam, especially in Central and Southern beach areas. The north, like Sapa and Halong Bay, is less crowded. It’s a good time to visit the north if you want to avoid crowds.
During Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, celebrations last a week. Many locals travel during this time, so it’s busy. Make reservations early. Shops, markets, and some tourist sites close. Prices for flights and hotels are typically 25% higher than usual and can even double in the summer.

Where to go

January is a popular time to visit the Mekong Delta for a relaxing cruise from Ho Chi Minh City. The weather is dry and cool, making it great for boat tours. The blooming flowers in the floating markets add to the vibrant colors.
For a beach getaway, Central Vietnam’s resorts like Hoi An, Danang, and Nha Trang are excellent choices in January. The weather is sunny and warm but not too hot or humid. Phu Quoc Island in the Gulf of Thailand offers a fantastic beach experience with temperatures around 77-82°F (25-28°C).
In the north, January is ideal for exploring Hanoi. Remember to pack warm clothes for the chilly weather and consider exploring on a bike to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy Hanoi’s street food. If you plan to visit Halong Bay, be aware that it might be hazy during this time of year.

What to do

Sapa is known for its stunning beauty and is a favorite spot for photographers. Winter is a particularly picturesque time with fog in the valleys and the snow-capped Fansipan Mountain in the background – perfect for hikers and photography enthusiasts.
For those seeking sun and warmth, Nha Trang is a coastal city with beautiful beaches, islands, and excellent dive sites. Hon Mun Marine Park offers crystal-clear waters teeming with coral reefs and colorful marine life like seahorses and rays. Beginners can practice at Moray Beach, while snorkeling is a great option right from the beach.
During late January, experience Tet, the Lunar New Year celebration. The entire country celebrates, but cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and especially Hanoi offer amazing experiences. Hanoi, in particular, kicks off with a spectacular fireworks display at midnight on Tet eve, followed by a week of festivities and events.

January Events

Tet, also known as the Vietnamese New Year, is a six-day celebration that generally occurs between late January and mid-February. It brings Vietnamese people back to their hometowns for continuous celebrations.
The Da Lat Flower Festival, taking place in early January every two years, showcases grand floral exhibits, live music, fashion shows, and other events.

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

Vietnam Highlight Tours: Experience dry and sunny weather perfect for cycling as you explore the central coast and northern highlands of Vietnam. This tour offers a unique way to see the country.
Vietnam Private Tours: Covering Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, this itinerary is great for first-time visitors looking to explore the must-see attractions like Ha Long Bay and allowing time for hiking in Sapa.