February

 

Weather in Vietnam in February

Overview of Vietnam’s Weather in February

February is widely considered one of the best months to visit Vietnam due to its favourable weather conditions across the country. Unlike the hot and humid summer months or the rainy season, February offers dry, cool, and comfortable weather, making it ideal for exploring both urban and natural landscapes.

The climate in Vietnam varies significantly from north to south, meaning different regions have distinct weather patterns:

• Northern Vietnam: Cool, sometimes chilly, with misty mornings and occasional drizzles.
• Central Vietnam: Pleasant and mild, with lots of sunshine.
• Southern Vietnam: Warm and dry, ideal for beach vacations.

Since February marks the transition from winter to spring, visitors can expect blooming flowers, lush green landscapes, and excellent conditions for sightseeing, trekking, and beach activities.

Weather by Region

Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Moc Chau)

• Average temperature: 10°C – 20°C (50°F – 68°F).
• Weather conditions: Cool and dry, but can be foggy in coastal areas.
• Best activities: Cultural exploration in Hanoi, trekking in Sapa, cruising in Ha Long Bay, sightseeing in Ninh Binh.

Detailed Weather Analysis

In Hanoi, February brings mild temperatures and dry conditions, making it ideal for walking around the Old Quarter, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, or enjoying local street food. However, the mornings can be foggy, creating a mystical atmosphere in Ha Long Bay.

In Sapa and Moc Chau, temperatures are much colder, sometimes dropping close to 0°C (32°F) at night. This is also the season when peach blossoms and plum flowers bloom, covering the mountain valleys in stunning pink and white hues. It’s an excellent time for trekking, but visitors should pack warm clothing for the chilly evenings.

🔹 Travel tip: If visiting Sapa, be prepared for cold weather and possible fog, which may reduce visibility in the mountains. A good windproof jacket and sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Da Lat, Quy Nhon)

• Average temperature: 18°C – 27°C (64°F – 81°F).
• Weather conditions: Pleasant and dry, with occasional cool breezes.
• Best activities: Sightseeing in Hue, relaxing on Da Nang’s beaches, exploring Hoi An’s Lantern Festival, trekking in Da Lat.

Detailed Weather Analysis

Central Vietnam enjoys some of the best weather in February, with low humidity, comfortable temperatures, and very little rainfall.

In Hue, visitors can explore the ancient Imperial City, traditional pagodas, and historic tombs without the discomfort of extreme heat.

In Da Nang and Hoi An, the sunshine is warm but not too hot, making it perfect for beach activities on My Khe Beach or strolling through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. February is also when the Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place, creating a magical atmosphere with thousands of colourful lanterns floating on the Thu Bon River.

In Da Lat, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” temperatures are cool and refreshing, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Pine forests, waterfalls, and flower gardens are in full bloom, making it an excellent escape from the warmer lowlands.

🔹 Travel tip: Hoi An gets very crowded during the Lantern Festival (held on the 14th day of the lunar month), so book accommodation in advance and arrive early to enjoy the best views.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Mekong Delta, Can Tho, Con Dao)

• Average temperature: 24°C – 32°C (75°F – 90°F).
• Weather conditions: Hot and dry, perfect for beach holidays.
• Best activities: Island hopping in Phu Quoc, exploring floating markets in the Mekong Delta, sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City.

Detailed Weather Analysis

Southern Vietnam enjoys warm, sunny weather in February, making it one of the best times for beach vacations.

In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the dry season continues with clear skies and high temperatures. It’s an excellent time to explore attractions like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, and the War Remnants Museum. However, traffic can be chaotic right after Tet (Lunar New Year) as people return to work.

In Phu Quoc, February is peak tourist season because of its perfect beach weather. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious beach resorts, it’s the ideal destination for sun-seekers.

In the Mekong Delta, the weather is warm and dry, providing the best conditions for floating market tours in Can Tho, boat trips through the lush waterways, and visits to local fruit farms.

🔹 Travel tip: Book flights and accommodation early if you plan to visit Phu Quoc or Con Dao, as they are highly popular in February.

How Vietnam’s February Weather Compares to Other Months

Month	Northern Vietnam	Central Vietnam	Southern Vietnam
January	Cold, dry, foggy in Sapa	Cool, occasional rain	Warm, sunny
February	Cool, dry, blooming flowers	Pleasant, dry, sunny	Hot, dry, ideal for beaches
March	Warmer, occasional rain	Warm, dry	Hot, humid

🔹 Key Takeaways:

• February is less cold than January but still cool in the north.
• Central Vietnam has perfect sightseeing weather with no storms.
• The south is hot and sunny, making it great for beaches but crowded with tourists.

Best Time of the Month to Visit Vietnam

• Early February (Tet Holiday Season):
  • Best for cultural experiences, as cities and villages are filled with New Year celebrations, traditional markets, and festive parades.
  • Downsides: Some businesses may close for the holiday, and transport may be expensive due to high demand.
• Mid to Late February:
  • Fewer crowds as locals return to work.
  • Ideal for nature lovers, as flowers bloom in the north and central regions.
  • More availability in hotels, flights, and tours compared to early February.

Vietnam’s weather in February makes it one of the best times to visit. Whether you’re looking for cool mountain retreats, cultural city tours, or relaxing beach holidays, there is a perfect destination for every traveller.

🌍 Up next: Check out the Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in February for top travel recommendations!

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in February

Vietnam in February offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from bustling cities and ancient towns to stunning beaches and mountain retreats. Depending on your preferences, you can explore the cool northern highlands, the historical charm of central Vietnam, or the tropical paradise of the south.

Northern Vietnam – Cultural & Natural Beauty in Spring

Hanoi – The Heart of Vietnam

✔ Best for: History, culture, and Tet holiday atmosphere.
✔ Weather: Cool (12°C – 20°C), dry with occasional light rain.

Hanoi in February is full of festive energy, as locals celebrate Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). The city’s streets are decorated with peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and red banners, creating a vibrant yet nostalgic atmosphere.

🔹 Top things to do in Hanoi in February:

• Wander through the Old Quarter and enjoy authentic street food.
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature.
• Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, especially during the Lantern Festival.
• Experience Tet celebrations at traditional temples like Ngoc Son Temple and Tran Quoc Pagoda.

📌 Travel Tip: Many businesses close for Tet holiday (early February), so plan accordingly!

Sapa – Blooming Flower Season & Trekking Paradise

✔ Best for: Nature lovers, trekking, and ethnic culture.
✔ Weather: Cold (5°C – 15°C), misty mornings, chance of frost in higher altitudes.

February is a fantastic time to visit Sapa as the peach blossoms and plum flowers bloom across the valleys. The cool weather makes it perfect for trekking, offering stunning views of terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages.

🔹 Top things to do in Sapa in February:

• Hike to Fansipan (the highest peak in Indochina).
• Visit Cat Cat Village & Ta Van Village to experience ethnic cultures.
• Admire the Muong Hoa Valley, covered in blooming flowers.
• Enjoy a hot herbal bath after a cold day of trekking.

📌 Travel Tip: Bring warm clothes and check the weather forecast, as thick fog can affect visibility.

Ninh Binh – The “Ha Long Bay on Land”

✔ Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and spiritual travellers.
✔ Weather: Mild (14°C – 22°C), mostly dry.

Ninh Binh is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in February, offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes and historical sites. It is also home to Bai Dinh Pagoda, which hosts one of the largest Buddhist festivals during this time.

🔹 Top things to do in Ninh Binh in February:

• Take a boat tour in Trang An or Tam Coc to explore limestone karsts.
• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam.
• Climb to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views.
• Discover the ancient Hoa Lu capital.

📌 Travel Tip: February is festival season, so expect crowds at Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Central Vietnam – Best for History & Beaches

Hue – Imperial City & Traditional Festivals

✔ Best for: History, culture, and food lovers.
✔ Weather: Pleasant (18°C – 24°C), dry with cool breezes.

Hue, the former capital of Vietnam, is rich in imperial history and Buddhist traditions. February is an excellent time to visit as it coincides with Tet celebrations and local festivals.

🔹 Top things to do in Hue in February:

• Explore the Imperial Citadel and Forbidden Purple City.
• Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs of Nguyen emperors.
• Enjoy a boat ride on the Perfume River.
• Try local delicacies like Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).

📌 Travel Tip: Visit Thuy Xuan Incense Village to capture stunning photos of colourful incense sticks.

Da Nang & Hoi An – Lanterns, Beaches, & Cultural Heritage

✔ Best for: Beaches, ancient towns, and local culture.
✔ Weather: Warm (19°C – 27°C), dry, perfect for outdoor activities.

Hoi An in February is famous for its Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of the lunar month. The Ancient Town transforms into a glowing wonderland, with thousands of lanterns floating on the river.

🔹 Top things to do in Da Nang & Hoi An in February:

• Relax on My Khe Beach in Da Nang.
• Visit the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills.
• Explore Hoi An’s Old Town and attend the Lantern Festival.
• Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River at night.

📌 Travel Tip: February is high season, so book accommodations early!

Southern Vietnam – Best for Beaches & Island Getaways

Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s Island Paradise

✔ Best for: Beach lovers, honeymooners, and water sports.
✔ Weather: Hot (25°C – 32°C), sunny and dry.

February is the best time to visit Phu Quoc, with crystal-clear waters and pleasant temperatures. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping.

🔹 Top things to do in Phu Quoc in February:

• Relax on Sao Beach & Long Beach.
• Go snorkeling at Hon Thom Island.
• Explore VinWonders Phu Quoc & Safari Park.
• Watch the sunset at Dinh Cau Rock.

📌 Travel Tip: February is peak season, so book hotels & flights in advance!

Mekong Delta (Can Tho, Ben Tre, Chau Doc)

✔ Best for: Nature, river cruises, and floating markets.
✔ Weather: Warm (24°C – 32°C), dry.

The Mekong Delta in February is full of life, with lush fruit orchards and bustling floating markets.

🔹 Top things to do in the Mekong Delta:

• Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho.
• Explore Ben Tre’s coconut plantations.
• Experience Tra Su Cajuput Forest in Chau Doc.

📌 Travel Tip: Wake up early to see the floating markets at their busiest (5 AM – 7 AM).

February is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, offering cool northern highlands, cultural experiences in central Vietnam, and stunning beaches in the south. Whether you prefer festivals, history, nature, or relaxation, there’s a perfect destination for every traveller.

🌍 Next up: Vietnam’s Festivals in February – Discover the most exciting cultural events!

Festivals and Events in Vietnam in February

February is an exciting time to visit Vietnam, not only because of its great weather but also due to its rich cultural celebrations. This month is filled with traditional festivals, especially surrounding Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year).

If you want to experience Vietnamese culture, spirituality, and local traditions, February is one of the best times to do so!

Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) – The Most Important Festival

✔ When: Varies each year (typically late January or early February).
✔ Where: Nationwide.
✔ Best for: Cultural immersion, traditional food, and festive atmosphere.

What is Tet?

Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the biggest and most important festival in Vietnam. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is a time for family reunions, ancestral worship, and celebrations.

Vietnamese people believe that Tet sets the tone for the entire year, so they engage in cleaning homes, decorating with peach blossoms, giving lucky money (li xi), and making traditional dishes like banh chung (square sticky rice cake) and banh tet (cylindrical sticky rice cake).

Best Places to Experience Tet in Vietnam

• Hanoi: Visit the Tet Flower Market on Hang Luoc Street, watch the fireworks at Hoan Kiem Lake, and experience the festive atmosphere in the Old Quarter.
• Hue: Experience a traditional royal Tet celebration at the Imperial City.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Admire the Nguyen Hue Flower Street, which is beautifully decorated with thousands of colourful flowers.
• Hoi An: Attend the Lantern Festival, where the ancient town is illuminated with lanterns and cultural performances.

📌 Travel Tip: During the first few days of Tet, many businesses and restaurants may be closed. Public transportation is also limited, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Perfume Pagoda Festival (Lễ Hội Chùa Hương)

✔ When: From the 6th day of the first lunar month (February – March).
✔ Where: Huong Pagoda, Hanoi (60 km southwest of Hanoi).
✔ Best for: Spiritual travelers, nature lovers, and Buddhist culture.

The Perfume Pagoda Festival is one of Vietnam’s largest and most famous Buddhist festivals. Pilgrims from all over Vietnam travel to the Huong Tich Cave, believing that visiting the pagoda brings good fortune for the year ahead.

Festival Highlights

• Boat ride along the Yen River, passing beautiful limestone mountains.
• Hiking to Huong Tich Cave, considered a sacred Buddhist site.
• Praying for health, luck, and happiness at the Perfume Pagoda.

📌 Travel Tip: The festival attracts thousands of pilgrims daily, so arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Yen Tu Spring Festival (Lễ Hội Yên Tử)

✔ When: Begins on the 10th day of the first lunar month (February – April).
✔ Where: Yen Tu Mountain, Quang Ninh Province (near Ha Long Bay).
✔ Best for: Pilgrimage, trekking, and breathtaking mountain views.

What Makes Yen Tu Festival Special?

The Yen Tu Mountain is considered the cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism, as King Tran Nhan Tong renounced his throne in the 13th century and became a monk here. Every year, thousands of Buddhist followers and tourists embark on a pilgrimage to the peak of Yen Tu Mountain, where the Dong Pagoda sits at an altitude of 1,068 meters.

🔹 Festival Highlights:

• Trekking or taking a cable car to the top of Yen Tu Mountain.
• Visiting Hoa Yen Pagoda and other ancient temples.
• Admiring breathtaking views from the mountain peak.

📌 Travel Tip: If you love trekking, hiking to the summit (around 4-6 hours) is an unforgettable experience.

Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival (Lễ Hội Bà Chúa Xứ)

✔ When: 23rd – 27th of the first lunar month (February – March).
✔ Where: Sam Mountain, Chau Doc, An Giang Province (Mekong Delta).
✔ Best for: Spiritual travelers, local traditions, and cultural experiences.

Why Visit This Festival?

The Ba Chua Xu Festival is one of the biggest spiritual festivals in Southern Vietnam. The festival is held at Ba Chua Xu Temple, where locals pray for prosperity, luck, and protection. Many people believe that Ba Chua Xu (Lady of the Region) has supernatural powers and that worshipping her brings good fortune.

🔹 Festival Highlights:

• Traditional ceremonies and folk performances.
• Cultural processions, where offerings are carried to the temple.
• Sampling delicious local dishes, including Mekong Delta specialties.

📌 Travel Tip: If visiting Sam Mountain, don’t miss the stunning sunset views over the vast Mekong Delta.

Lim Festival (Lễ Hội Lim) – The Traditional Folk Singing Festival

✔ When: 12th – 14th day of the first lunar month (February).
✔ Where: Bac Ninh Province, about 30 km from Hanoi.
✔ Best for: Traditional music lovers, history, and cultural performances.

What Makes Lim Festival Unique?

Lim Festival is famous for its Quan Ho folk singing, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. The festival celebrates Vietnamese courtship songs, performed by male and female singers in traditional costumes.

🔹 Festival Highlights:

• Quan Ho singing performances on boats and main stages.
• Traditional games like bamboo swings and human chess.
• Exploring But Thap Pagoda and other ancient landmarks.

📌 Travel Tip: If you’re interested in Vietnamese traditional arts, this is a must-visit festival.

February is not only one of the best times to visit Vietnam for great weather, but it’s also a month full of fascinating festivals. From the grand celebrations of Tet to sacred Buddhist pilgrimages and folk music festivals, there’s something for everyone.

🌍 Up next: Vietnam Travel Tips for February – Essential advice for a smooth and unforgettable trip!

Travel Tips for Visiting Vietnam in February

February is one of the best months to travel to Vietnam, thanks to its pleasant weather, beautiful landscapes, and exciting festivals. However, as this is also peak tourist season and the time of the Tet holiday, travellers need to be well-prepared to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Dưới đây là những mẹo quan trọng bạn cần biết trước khi du lịch Việt Nam vào tháng 2.

Book Flights & Accommodation Early

✔ Why? February is a peak travel season, especially around Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year). During this time:

• Domestic flights, trains, and buses get fully booked quickly.
• Hotel prices can be higher than usual, particularly in popular destinations like Hanoi, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc.

📌 Travel Tips:

• Book flights and hotels at least 1-2 months in advance to get the best deals.
• If travelling during Tet, expect higher prices and limited availability for transportation.
• Consider flexible travel dates to avoid the Tet rush (early to mid-February).

Be Prepared for Weather Differences

Vietnam’s weather varies greatly from north to south, so packing appropriately is crucial.

🔹 Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh)
✔ Weather: Cool to cold (10°C – 20°C), sometimes foggy or drizzly.
✔ Packing tips: Warm layers, a jacket, scarf, gloves, and comfortable shoes for trekking (especially for Sapa).

🔹 Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Da Lat)
✔ Weather: Mild & dry (18°C – 27°C).
✔ Packing tips: Light jackets for cool evenings, comfortable clothes for sightseeing.

🔹 Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, Con Dao)
✔ Weather: Hot & sunny (25°C – 32°C).
✔ Packing tips: Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

📌 Bonus Tip: If visiting Sapa or Moc Chau, bring warm thermal layers, as temperatures can drop to 5°C or lower at night.

Plan Your Tet Holiday Travel Carefully

✔ Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the biggest holiday in Vietnam, so it greatly affects travel plans.

📌 Key things to know about Tet travel:

• Before Tet (1 week before the holiday) → Transportation is crowded, as locals return home. Ticket prices increase significantly.
• During Tet (first 3-5 days of the holiday) → Many shops, restaurants, and local markets are closed. However, major tourist attractions remain open.
• After Tet (1-2 weeks later) → Cities become lively again, and travel costs return to normal.

✔ Best Tet Destinations:

• Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City: Experience traditional Tet decorations, flower markets, and fireworks.
• Hoi An: Attend the Hoi An Lantern Festival, which coincides with Tet.
• Mekong Delta: Enjoy local New Year celebrations & floating markets.

📌 Travel Tip: If you want to avoid crowds, travel before or after Tet instead of during the holiday.

Use Cash & Be Mindful of Bank Closures

✔ Why? Many ATMs and banks close for Tet, and cash withdrawals may be limited due to high demand.

📌 Travel Tips:

• Bring enough cash before Tet, especially if travelling to rural areas or small towns.
• Most major cities accept credit cards in hotels and restaurants, but small vendors may only take cash.
• Exchange currency at official money exchange centres or banks for better rates.

Be Respectful of Local Traditions During Tet

Tet is a sacred and meaningful holiday for Vietnamese people. Visitors should be aware of some cultural customs and etiquette:

✔ Do’s:
✅ Say “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Happy New Year)! – It’s a friendly way to greet locals.
✅ Accept “Li Xi” (lucky money) with both hands if given (but don’t expect it as a tourist).
✅ Visit temples & pagodas to experience the spiritual side of Tet.

❌ Don’ts:
🚫 Avoid wearing black or white when visiting people’s homes – these colours are associated with mourning.
🚫 Don’t break things (it’s believed to bring bad luck for the year).
🚫 Don’t argue or complain loudly – Tet is about positivity and new beginnings!

📌 Bonus Tip: Try Tet-special dishes like Bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake), Dưa hành (pickled onions), and Giò lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage).

Try Local Seasonal Dishes

February is a great time to enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes that are only available during the Lunar New Year period.

🔹 Must-Try Tet Dishes:

• Bánh chưng & Bánh tét – Traditional sticky rice cakes.
• Nem rán (Spring Rolls) – Crispy, delicious appetizer.
• Thịt kho tàu – Braised pork with eggs in coconut water.
• Mứt Tết – Dried fruits and candied snacks.
• Bia Hơi & Rượu Nếp – Traditional Vietnamese beer and rice wine.

📌 Travel Tip: Some restaurants may have special Tet menus, so check before ordering!

Be Mindful of High Tourist Traffic in Popular Destinations

Since February is peak travel season, expect large crowds in popular destinations like:
✔ Ha Long Bay – Book cruises in advance!
✔ Hoi An – The Lantern Festival attracts thousands of visitors.
✔ Phu Quoc & Da Nang – Hotels get fully booked early.

📌 Travel Tip: Visit less crowded places like Quy Nhon, Con Dao, or Buon Ma Thuot if you prefer a quieter experience.

Travelling to Vietnam in February is an amazing experience, thanks to its great weather, festive atmosphere, and exciting events. However, Tet can affect travel plans, so preparation is key.

✔ Book flights & hotels early to get the best deals.
✔ Pack for different climates, depending on your destination.
✔ Plan around the Tet holiday to enjoy the cultural experience while avoiding inconveniences.
✔ Try seasonal foods & explore less crowded destinations for a unique adventure.

By following these essential travel tips, you’ll have a smooth and unforgettable trip to Vietnam in February!

Conclusion – Why February is One of the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam in February is one of the best months for travel, offering perfect weather, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the cool misty mountains of Sapa, the historical charm of Hoi An, or the tropical beaches of Phu Quoc, February provides an ideal mix of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Tet holiday (Lunar New Year) affects travel plans, so book transport and accommodation early.
• Different climates across regions mean you should pack accordingly.
• Popular destinations can be crowded, so consider visiting off-the-beaten-path locations for a quieter experience.

👉 Final Tip: Plan your itinerary carefully and embrace the festive spirit to make the most of your Vietnam trip in February!

💬 Ready to plan your trip? Let us know if you need more travel advice! 😊