Best Time To Visit Hanoi

March to April: With delightful temperatures and blooming flowers, spring is one of the greatest times of year to visit Hanoi. The city comes to life with lush greenery, and sites such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are best appreciated during this good weather. It is also the time for various cultural festivals, such as Tet or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year,  which typically occurs between late January and mid-February but could spill over into early spring. You get to engage in activities like visiting the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Old Quarter, walking around Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake under blooming trees, and even visiting the picturesque Ninh Binh countryside or Halong Bay. Plan ahead because lodging and airline tickets are pricey during this time of year.

May to August: Summer in Hanoi is extremely hot and humid, with occasional heavy rain showers. While sightseeing can be challenging due to high temperatures, this is the perfect time to indulge in fresh tropical fruits and traditional iced desserts like chè and coconut ice cream. While outdoor activities are less pleasant, the summer is perfect for avoiding the heat with indoor activities such as museums, classic water puppet performances, and shopping centers. You can also take a trip to Halong Bay, Ba Vi National Park, or Tam Coc and enjoy popular attractions without the crowd for a quiet and peaceful experience.

September to November: Autumn is the most beautiful season in Hanoi, as the temperatures are cool and pleasant with clear skies and golden leaves blanketing the streets. The season also provides for a romantic atmosphere, perfect for sightseeing, walking tours with your partner and also enjoying Hanoi’s famous autumn delicacies like green rice. This season is ideal for exploring Hanoi’s historical sites, lakes, and cultural landmarks. Mid-Autumn Festival, usually in September or October, is a seasonal highlight featuring colourful lanterns, lion dances, and delicious mooncakes. Although this is the peak season, the weather makes up for the surged prices as you get to enjoy popular attractions like the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and the French Quarter in the beautiful weather or take a stroll through Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi’s tree-lined streets. In order to make the best of your autumn vacation, make your reservations well in advance to avoid increased rates.

December to February: Winter in Hanoi can get pretty cold, with temperatures ranging as low as 10°C. Although it never snows here, the foggy mornings and misty atmosphere create a mystical and magical effect, particularly in the Old Quarter and along Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi's warm comfort foods, like pho, banh xeo, and hotpot, are best enjoyed during this season. The festive atmosphere also makes winter a great time to visit, with Christmas and Lunar New Year decorations lighting up the city. The cultural and historical sites look even more elegant being surrounded by the winter mist, which is a must-visit experience, in addition to shopping for souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market and night markets or travelling to Sapa or Moc Chau for a wintry countryside experience.

March to April: While spring is not considered to be the peak season, if you are travelling during Lunar New Year, make sure to book accommodation in advance. Ensure that you pack a light jacket, casual clothing and a warm jacket that are appropriate for fluctuating temperatures. Take part in traditional festivals for an authentic experience.

May to August: Bring water and wear light, loose-fitting clothes to deal with humidity. Plan indoor activities like visiting museums and cafés during peak sun hours to stay away from the heat. If you are travelling on a budget, this season is perfect for you to take advantage of the low prices for accommodations and flight booking. As a precautionary measure, bring an umbrella or raincoat to catch surprise rain showers.

September to November: This season is perfect weather for sightseeing, outdoor cafés, and photo opportunities. Since the temperatures tend to drop, make sure to pack thick layers of clothing and jackets to fight off the cool evenings. If you are going on a honeymoon, then this season is perfect for you to enjoy romantic walks and Hanoi’s most gorgeous season. To witness the cultural beauty, travel during the Mid-Autumn Festival for a cultural highlight.

December to February: Make sure to pack warm layers of clothing, jackets, beanies and gloves to protect yourself from the cold temperatures. Take comfort in the steaming bowls of pho and hot drinks like egg coffee. Explore the Tet markets, New Year's celebrations, and holiday lights. You can also visit well-known locations and enjoy them on your time because they typically have fewer tourists than during the peak seasons of the year.

Regardless of the time of year, Hanoi provides a fascinating blend of culture, history, and delicious cuisine, guaranteeing a memorable trip for all.