January is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, especially in the southern regions. The best places to visit in January are the southern cities and beach resorts, and you can enjoy them to the fullest. The northern parts can have foggy weather; you might want to bring warm clothing and rain gear. January is also a great time to visit Vietnam if you want to witness its most important cultural event, Tet. As Tet approaches, transportation options can get booked up quickly, and some businesses might close in preparation for the holiday.
Weather in Vietnam in January
January is a great time to visit Vietnam. You can expect warm sunshine and clear blue skies as Vietnam is in its prime dry season during January. Let's see the weather in Vietnam by region.
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 20°C. This is the perfect time to visit Ha Long Bay, which has its mystical fog, or go trekking in Sapa to enjoy the terraced fields and mountains. For some travelers, the temperature in Northern Vietnam in January may feel a bit chilly, especially in mountainous regions like Sapa.
Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue): Central Vietnam experiences pleasant weather with milder temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 24°C. The coastal cities like Hoi An and Da Nang might experience sporadic rainfall but the weather is generally good for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): January in southern Vietnam is warm and dry, with temperatures around 25°C to 32°C. It's an excellent time to explore the Mekong Delta or relax on the beaches of Phu Quoc.
Places to Visit and Things to Do in Vietnam in January
1. Hanoi
Hanoi is rightly called the cultural capital of Vietnam. In January, Hanoi has cool weather, and you can wear some warm clothing, hop on a bicycle, and explore what this city has to offer. It also has beautiful lakes like the Ho Tay and Hoan Kiem. The best part of being in Hanoi in January is experiencing the beauty of the Tet festival when the city comes alive with fireworks and celebrations.
2. Nha Trang
Nha Trang is a beautiful port city that has moderately warm and dry weather in the winter months. This city has it all - from long stretches of picturesque white sand beaches and unique waterfalls to Buddhist temples and gothic churches. Nha Trang has a thriving biodiversity of coral reefs and marine life.
3. Phu Quoc Island
Just like Nha Trang, Phu Quoc Island has pleasant, balmy, and dry weather with warm sunshine and clear blue skies in January. The Phu Quoc island is situated in the Gulf of Thailand. If you are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of mundane city life, you have to visit this island. It has beautiful beaches and evergreen forests, with luxurious resorts and bars having recently come up in the southern parts of the island.
4. Da Nang
Da Nang is situated in the middle of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi and is most popular for its proximity to the My Khe Beach and Lang Co Beach. Both the beaches are beautiful, but the latter is more developed with resorts and water sports such as yachting, diving, and water skiing. My Khe beach also has a sparkling lagoon, which makes it worth a visit. Da Nang City itself also has various shopping and historical spots which are worth exploring.
5. Enjoy Tet (Vietnamese New Year)
The Tet festival is the most important holiday in the Vietnamese culture. The date of the festival usually depends on the lunar cycle, but it mostly falls in January at the end or at the beginning of February. It marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year and the spring season in North Vietnam. Homes and workplaces are decorated with kumquat trees and peach blossoms. It is not a great idea to be traveling during the Tet holiday as transportation is not easily available. Hanoi is the best place to be during the festival.
Travel Tips for Vietnam in January
Pack for Diverse Weather: The weather in Vietnam in January varies depending on the region. Pack layers if you're heading north, including a jacket for the cooler temperatures. For central and southern regions, light clothing, sunblock, and comfortable shoes are ideal.
Book Early: If you’re traveling close to Tet, it’s essential to book accommodations and transportation early as domestic travel surges during this time.
Prepare for Festivals: If you’re visiting during the Tet preparations, be ready for some closures, but also enjoy the festive atmosphere in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Currency: Make sure to have Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand, especially in smaller towns and during the Tet season, as ATMs can run out of cash in some areas.
Vietnam in January is a fantastic time for travelers to experience the country’s natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor activities. With comfortable weather across most regions and fewer crowds, it's an ideal month for both exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re trekking through Sapa, sailing in Ha Long Bay, or enjoying the festive build-up to Tet, January offers something for everyone. Make sure to pack appropriately and plan ahead for a smooth and memorable trip.