Best places to visit in September

Best places to visit in September

September Overview

September is typically the wettest month in Vietnam as Central Vietnam enters its autumn monsoon season, while the northern and southern regions are nearing the end of their summer monsoons. With rains easing in the north, mountain trekking becomes feasible again, and there are still plenty of sunny days nationwide, making this one of the most affordable months for travel.

Weather

As the month progresses, the northeast monsoons arrive in Central Vietnam, bringing storms, though summer temperatures begin to decrease. While the region still enjoys some sunny days, beach-goers can no longer rely on consistent sunshine.

Hiking in Dalat and the Central Highlands may be a challenging experience due to soggy conditions, and some caves in Phong Nha may be closed due to flooding. Hue, Hoi An, and northern Central Vietnam generally receive more rainfall compared to Nha Trang and southern Central Vietnam, which typically have drier, sunnier days. The region is also susceptible to typhoons during the fall months, so pack your rain gear along with sunscreen.

In contrast, North Vietnam’s monsoon rains start to lessen as October approaches, making temperatures more comfortable in Hanoi, while the mountain regions cool down. By late September, trekking in the Sapa, Mau Son, and Mu Cang Chai mountains becomes a viable option, with sunny days becoming the norm. This is an ideal time to explore both Hanoi and the highlands.

In South Vietnam, however, the monsoon persists through October, featuring heavy and often prolonged rainfall. Temperatures stay high, averaging around 81°F (27.5°C), mostly in the afternoons, though sunny, dry daylight hours are still common. After extensive rainy spells, flooding may occur, and the South China Sea can be choppy, leading to transportation delays. It’s advisable to have a backup plan in case of rain-related disruptions.

Crowds & Costs

Visitor numbers tend to be low in September, with prices at their lowest. This unique combination allows you to enjoy uncrowded tourist sites, although Northern Vietnam may see a slight uptick in visitors. Flights from the US West Coast are often at their most affordable in September, while hotel rates remain relatively stable throughout the month.

Where to Go

September brings a shift in focus from Central Vietnam’s beaches and cities to the sunny landscapes of Northern Vietnam. This is an excellent time to explore Hanoi, with clearer skies (although Halong Bay can still be stormy and rough, so consider visiting in October or later).

Be prepared for unpredictable weather by packing a light umbrella. In September, Hanoi’s streets are filled with the delightful fragrance of “milk flowers” (Alstonia scholaris) in bloom. If possible, plan your visit around September 2 to participate in the lively National Day celebrations in the capital.

Consider visiting Ninh Binh, located about 55 miles (95 km) south of Hanoi, which offers a unique landscape reminiscent of Halong Bay on land. This lesser-known gem is perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Reach Ninh Binh by taking the “Reunification Express” train for a scenic three-hour journey. After checking out must-see attractions like the Gothic Phat Diem Cathedral and Bai Dinh, the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, explore the beautiful rice paddies and stunning limestone mountains of Trang An and Tam Coc by boat.

In South Vietnam, despite the ongoing rainy season, September is a great time to discover the Mekong Delta. The waterfront life is vibrant, making it an exciting time to explore. Local fruits like dragon fruit and mango are at their peak, and with this being the off-season, you can enjoy your adventures without the typical crowds, along with generally lower tourist prices.

What to Do

This month is perfect for hiking in the mountains of North Vietnam. It’s a beautiful time for photographers, particularly in Sapa and Mu Cang Chai, where the terraced rice fields are golden and ready for harvest, glowing under the bright sunshine. The vibrant scene is enhanced by the Hmong ethnic minority farmers, who work the fields in their colorful traditional attire.

Explore Hanoi on a bicycle tour—this is the most authentic way to experience the charming colonial city and interact with the locals. Be sure to cycle through the alleys by the Red River and visit the temples of Thuy Khue near West Lake.

September Events

National Independence Day: Celebrated across the country on September 2, this significant holiday commemorates the day revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence from France. Expect lively festivities and fireworks.

Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival): This joyful festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month in the lunar calendar, features lion dances and colorful lanterns that help guide a mythical moon figure back to Earth. It’s especially popular with children, who enjoy special entertainment, toys, and delicious moon cakes.

Traveling to Vietnam in September? Check out these great itineraries:

Vietnam Nature & Culture Tour: Hanoi, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, and More – 17 Days: Discover the cultural and natural highlights of Vietnam from north to south, ensuring you leave no stone unturned.

Hidden Beauty of North Vietnam – 6 Days: September is an ideal time to venture from Hanoi into northern Vietnam for six days of exploration in the highlands.