List of cheap hotels in Vietnam with good ratings

When planning a trip to Southeast Asia, many tourists wonder when is the best time to visit Vietnam to make the most of their vacation. The country’s unique feature is its territory stretching over 1600 km from north to south. Different regions fall under the influence of various climatic zones, meaning there is no universal “best month.” Instead, there is a precise logic in choosing the period for vacation, depending on the direction, activities, and weather preferences.

### Weather in Vietnam by Months: Region Matters

The climate varies from moderate subtropical in the north to tropical in the south. The country does not have a cold winter in the conventional sense, but the seasons are clearly defined due to the balance of precipitation and temperatures.

In the northern provinces (Hanoi, Haiphong, Halong Bay), there can be cool and even damp winters. The central part (Hue, Danang, Hoi An) is more prone to typhoons and prolonged autumn rains. The southern coast (Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet, the islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao) is a zone of tropical climate where the weather is more stable, but summers can be very humid.

### When to Visit Vietnam: Understanding by Regions

The choice of season depends on your goals. One thing is tours for beach relaxation, another is an excursion program in the north of the country. The question of when to visit Vietnam should be decided in the context of the region and weather conditions in specific months.

### Winter (December-February): Dry and Comfortable

In the winter months, the north becomes cool: temperatures can drop to +15 °C, especially in mountainous areas. At the same time, the south experiences the peak of the dry season. Here, the weather is ideal for the beach, diving, excursions, and peaceful relaxation: the air temperature is around +30 °C, and rains are practically absent.

The best time for a vacation in Vietnam at southern resorts – Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City. A vacation during this time of year is comfortable and popular, making the season high in terms of tourist flow.

### Spring (March-May): A Universal Solution

In spring, the weather evens out across the country. It becomes warmer in the north, still dry in the south, and the central provinces delight with stability. It is a suitable time for a comprehensive journey: from walks in Hanoi to relaxation in Halong Bay, beaches in Danang, and activities in the south. The temperature ranges from +26 to +33 °C, with minimal rainfall. If you are considering when to visit Vietnam, the spring months will be an optimal choice for a comfortable and eventful vacation without climatic extremes.

### Summer (June-August): Hot, Humid, but with Advantages

In summer, heat covers the entire territory. Humidity increases, especially in the southern part. During this period, the rainy season intensifies, especially in Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and the Mekong Delta. In the north, summer is drier but still hot, often exceeding +35 °C.

Despite this, summer can be a good option if you are looking for great deals. During the rainy season, prices for tours to Vietnam decrease, and the green rice terraces and full waterfalls are a sight to behold.

### Autumn (September-November): Ambiguous Time

Autumn is a challenging period for a trip to the center. Typhoons, prolonged rains, and high humidity begin here. However, the south and north of the country, on the contrary, can please with improved weather conditions. In October and November, rainfall decreases in the south, and the temperature becomes more comfortable. In the north, a dry and mild autumn sets in, suitable for walks and excursions.

Choosing autumn should be done with caution, especially if your route includes the central part of the country. Proper route planning will help avoid climatic inconveniences.

### Best Season for a Vacation in Vietnam: Optimal Months Depending on the Goal

Depending on the type of vacation, destination, and climate, some months may be suitable or, conversely, extremely inconvenient. Below is a brief guide for different travel purposes.

**Best Months for Tourist Activities**

– Beach vacation in the south – choose January, February, March;
– For travel in the central part – April and May will be optimal;
– For mountainous regions and the north – March, April, October;
– For a combined vacation (beach + excursions) – February and March;
– High comfort season – December to May, in terms of prices – September and June.

Each region of the country reveals itself differently in different months: somewhere dryness and sun are important, somewhere a comfortable temperature for active excursions. Understanding when to visit Vietnam allows you to adapt the route to your own goals and avoid seasonal inconveniences. Whether you are looking for beach relaxation, trekking, or cultural discoveries – with the right choice of time, the trip will leave only positive impressions.

### When Not to Visit Vietnam: Periods with High Probability of Rainfall

When choosing when to visit Vietnam, it is important to consider periods of increased humidity. Even if the rain is short-lived, it can disrupt plans:

– July-August – heavy rains in the south and possible disruptions to excursions;
– October-November – the danger of typhoons and prolonged rainfall in the central part;
– June – high humidity, especially in southern metropolises;
– September – high waves and unstable weather in most coastal areas;
– January – cool in the northern part of the country, not suitable for beach relaxation there.

These time frames require special preparation, especially if a busy program is planned.

### Seasonal Approach – the Key to a Successful Vacation

When choosing when to visit Vietnam, rely not on the calendar but on the logic of the weather and the peculiarities of the region. The country offers a variety of opportunities but requires a thoughtful approach to planning.

A comfortable vacation is possible in any month if you distribute routes and activities correctly. Avoid the typhoon season in the central part and overly hot months in the south – and you will discover Indochina in its best form: warm, hospitable, and climatically predictable.

When planning a trip to Southeast Asia, many tourists consider Vietnam as a promising destination due to its picturesque nature, affordable prices, and diverse resorts. However, before buying tickets and booking a hotel, it is important to understand what you need to know before traveling to Vietnam. Detailed preparation helps avoid typical mistakes related to visa nuances, financial matters, weather conditions, and transportation within the country.

Visa System and Entry Features

The first thing to know before the trip is the necessity of obtaining a visa to Vietnam. In 2025, most citizens of foreign countries must apply for an electronic visa in advance through the official website of the immigration service. The document allows staying in the country for up to 30 days with the possibility of extension on-site. To apply, you will need a passport, a photo, and a valid email address. The visa can be single or multiple entry depending on the purpose of the trip.

Border control is carried out at major airports – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Phu Quoc. Here, documents, return tickets, and accommodation reservations are checked.

Climate Conditions and Seasonality

The second thing to know before traveling to Vietnam is about the climate. The country has three climatic zones: north (Hanoi), central (Danang, Hue), and south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne). Seasons here depend on the region. The northern part can be cool from November to February, the south is characterized by a stable tropical climate year-round, and the central region experiences the rainy season in autumn. Before the first trip, it is important to familiarize yourself with temperature and precipitation norms, especially when planning a vacation at Vietnamese resorts.

Currency, Exchange Rate, and Payment Methods

The third thing to know before the trip is about handling money in Vietnam. The national currency is the Vietnamese dong, but US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas. The optimal way to store money is through a bank card, but cashless payment may not be possible everywhere. Therefore, it is recommended to have some cash on hand. Major hotels and restaurants accept cards, while taxis, markets, and cafes prefer cash payments. The main financial recommendations include:

• exchanging currency only at licensed exchange offices or banks;
• keeping large sums in the hotel safe;
• using cards with low fees for international transactions;
• downloading offline maps for navigation in cities without internet;
• installing an app with current exchange rates.

Following tourist advice helps avoid overpayments, fraud, and misunderstandings in Vietnam related to service payments and purchases.

Accommodation and Stay Conditions

Tourist areas offer hotels, guesthouses, bungalows, and beach huts. Prices range from $5 to $100 depending on the level of comfort and season. Budget travelers can find inexpensive apartments through booking platforms. Particularly popular are Mui Ne, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc – here, the infrastructure is well-developed, and there are beaches with white sand.

What to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam: Pre-Travel Checklist

To ensure a smooth trip, it is important to gather necessary information and consider key points:

• applying for a visa in advance;
• choosing the season based on the region;
• knowing the local currency and exchange methods;
• booking accommodation upon arrival;
• having a local SIM card for communication;
• downloading maps and translation apps.

Each point helps reduce stress and better adapt to the conditions of traveling in Vietnam.

Resorts and Infrastructure

The most popular resorts differ in the level of service and cater to different categories of tourists. Phu Quoc is an island with beautiful beaches and the opportunity for a secluded retreat. Nha Trang offers a vibrant city life and proximity to major shopping centers. Mui Ne is popular among surfers and young people preferring active entertainment. All resorts have their own beaches, cafes, markets, spas, and Ayurvedic centers.

Local Transport Features

Another important aspect of what to know before traveling is moving between cities and within populated areas in Vietnam. The main types of transport include taxis, motorbikes, motorcycles, buses, and trains. Tourists often rent scooters for transportation, especially in areas with a developed road network. Transport options include:

• renting a motorbike with a driver’s license;
• ordering a taxi through Grab, Be, and Gojek apps;
• traveling between regions by trains or night buses;
• transfers arranged when booking a hotel;
• domestic flights between major cities.

The variety of transport options allows for convenient movement within resorts and between remote parts of the country, maintaining comfort and budget.

Internet and Communication

For comfortable communication on the territory, it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card. The main operators are Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone. Cards are sold directly at the airport or in retail points in the city center. The internet is fast, and coverage is stable even in rural areas. Before connecting, it is worth checking the tariffs and data limits.

Behavior and Local Rules

The last thing to know before traveling to Vietnam is about cultural norms. The country is characterized by restraint in public behavior. It is not customary to speak loudly, show excessive emotions, or smoke in public places. In temples, shoulders and knees should be covered. It is also advisable to avoid displaying cash on the street.

What to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam: Key Points

Preparing for a trip to Vietnam requires attention to detail. It is important to consider the climate, transportation, visa formalities, and financial matters. Knowledge of the peculiarities of local resorts, cultural norms, and communication methods helps organize a comfortable and safe journey. Regular mention of what to know before traveling to Vietnam emphasizes the key points necessary for successful adaptation and relaxation!