Understanding Vietnam Temperature: A Guide to Weather Throughout the Year

Vietnam, known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history, is a popular destination for travellers all over the world. However, one important factor to consider before embarking on your trip is Vietnam’s temperature. The country's climate varies from region to region, with different weather patterns in the north, central, and southern parts. Whether you’re trekking in the cool northern mountains or relaxing on the beaches in the south, understanding Vietnam’s temperature will help you plan your trip accordingly.

In this article, we’ll explore Vietnam temperature throughout the year, with a focus on specific months like June, May, December, July, August, and September. We’ll also look at how the weather can affect your travel plans depending on which part of the country you're visiting.

Vietnam spans over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometres) from north to south, which leads to significant regional variations in temperature. The country’s geography features coastal areas, mountains, and valleys, all of which play a role in shaping its climate. Here’s a quick overview of the climate in different regions:

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

• Climate Type: Temperate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
• Temperature: Winters can be cold (10°C-15°C or 50°F-59°F), while summers can be hot and humid (25°C-35°C or 77°F-95°F).

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

• Climate Type: Tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
• Temperature: Central Vietnam tends to stay warm year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C-32°C (77°F-90°F), but it sees a lot of rainfall between September and December.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

• Climate Type: Tropical climate with wet and dry seasons.
• Temperature: The weather is generally warm year-round, with average temperatures between 25°C-32°C (77°F-90°F). The dry season is from December to April, while the rainy season occurs between May and November.

June is part of the rainy season in Vietnam, especially in the southern and central regions. Here’s a breakdown of the weather in different parts of the country during June:

• North Vietnam:
• The temperature in North Vietnam in June can range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It’s the start of the summer season, so you can expect hot and humid conditions, especially in Hanoi and Halong Bay. While Hanoi can get quite warm during the day, the evenings can be more comfortable, with slightly cooler temperatures.
• Central Vietnam:
• In Central Vietnam, including cities like Da Nang and Hoi An, the temperature can range from 28°C to 34°C (82°F to 93°F). June is considered the tail end of the dry season, so while there may be some rain, the weather is generally warm and pleasant for beach activities and sightseeing.
• South Vietnam:
• The temperature in South Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City, remains consistently warm with temperatures around 26°C to 33°C (79°F to 91°F). This is also the wet season, and afternoon thunderstorms are common, though they usually don’t last long.

May is the beginning of the hot and rainy season in Vietnam, with temperatures starting to rise across the country. Here's what you can expect in May:

North Vietnam:

• In North Vietnam, May sees the temperature rise to around 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F). It’s quite hot during the day, and humidity levels increase as the month progresses. While rain is infrequent, occasional showers can be expected.

Central Vietnam:

• May is still part of the dry season in Central Vietnam, so the temperature can range from 27°C to 35°C (81°F to 95°F). This is a good month to visit places like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue as the weather is warm, and there’s minimal rain.

South Vietnam:

• In South Vietnam, the temperature during May can range from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with the wet season starting to kick in. The rains are typically in the form of afternoon showers, and the humidity increases during this time.

December marks the beginning of the cooler, dry season in most parts of Vietnam, especially in the south and central regions. It’s also one of the best times to visit, especially for travellers from colder regions. Here's how the temperature looks in December:

North Vietnam:

• December in North Vietnam is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F). Cities like Hanoi experience cool, dry weather, making it an ideal time to explore the city. In mountainous areas like Sapa, temperatures can drop further, reaching 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), and it can even get quite chilly at night.

Central Vietnam:

• The temperature in Central Vietnam in December ranges from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), making it an excellent time to visit cities like Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An. The weather is cooler, and the region is generally dry, providing the perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

South Vietnam:

• South Vietnam enjoys warm, dry weather during December, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). It’s one of the best months to visit Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and the beaches in Phu Quoc.

July and August are the hottest months in Vietnam, particularly in the northern and central regions. Here’s what to expect during these months:

North Vietnam:

• The temperature in North Vietnam in July and August can soar to around 28°C to 38°C (82°F to 100°F), with Hanoi experiencing high humidity levels. It’s the peak of summer, so expect hot and sticky weather, though evening temperatures may be slightly cooler.

Central Vietnam:

• In Central Vietnam, the temperature during these months can range from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F). This is the peak of the dry season in Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An, making it a popular time for beachgoers, but it can still get quite hot.

South Vietnam:

• In South Vietnam, July and August are part of the wet season. Temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), and afternoon showers are frequent. However, the weather is still warm and tropical, ideal for beach lovers who don’t mind the occasional rain.

September is considered the transition period from the wet to the dry season in Vietnam. Here’s how the temperature plays out:

North Vietnam:

• The temperature in North Vietnam in September is mild, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F). This is a good time to visit Hanoi and Halong Bay as the humidity starts to decrease, and the weather is generally pleasant.

Central Vietnam:

• September in Central Vietnam can be quite rainy, with temperatures between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). This is part of the rainy season, and flooding can sometimes occur in cities like Hoi An, making travel more challenging.

South Vietnam:

• September in South Vietnam is also the peak of the rainy season, with temperatures between 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F). Heavy rainfall and afternoon thunderstorms are common, but the region remains warm, and the rains typically last for a short time.

Vietnam’s temperature varies significantly from north to south, with distinct weather patterns throughout the year. In the northern regions, the temperature can be cooler in the winter months, while the south experiences a warm and tropical climate year-round. Depending on the month you’re visiting—whether in June, May, December, July, August, or September—you’ll experience different weather conditions, from hot summers and monsoon rains to cool, dry winter days.

By understanding the temperature in Vietnam for each month, you can better plan your trip and choose the right time to visit based on your preferences, whether you're trekking in the mountains, lounging on the beach, or exploring historical sites.