Best time to visit Hanoi & the north
The best time to visit Hanoi & the north is April and September–November; avoid July–August.
Four soft seasons. The extremes are humidity, not temperature — summer is sticky and grey, the shoulders are the reward.
Go now
- April
- September–November
Reschedule around
- July–August
Month by month
- JanJanuaryGood
Cool and dry
Grey skies but comfortable.
- FebFebruaryMixed
Damp drizzle ("nồm")
A clammy mist that never quite rains.
- MarMarchGood
Warming, occasional drizzle
Improving steadily.
- AprAprilPrime time
Warm, dry, blossom
Spring — one of the best windows.
- MayMayGood
Warm to hot
Lovely early, humid late.
- JunJuneMixed
Hot and humid
Sticky; afternoon storms.
- JulJulyAvoid
Peak heat & humidity
38°C with high humidity.
- AugAugustAvoid
Hot, humid, stormy
Tail end of the worst.
- SepSeptemberPrime time
Warm, dry, clear
Autumn — the locals’ favourite month.
- OctOctoberPrime time
Mild, dry, golden light
Arguably the best month in the north.
- NovNovemberPrime time
Cool and crisp
Excellent for walking the city.
- DecDecemberGood
Cool, can be cold
Atmospheric; pack a jacket.
Visiting Hanoi & the north — common questions
- What is the best time to visit Hanoi & the north?
- The best time to visit Hanoi & the north is April and September–November; avoid July–August. Warm, dry, blossom in April — Spring — one of the best windows.
- Which months should you avoid in Hanoi & the north?
- Avoid July–August. Peak heat & humidity — 38°C with high humidity.. We would reschedule around these rather than gamble on the weather.
- Is Hanoi & the north worth visiting? When does it shine?
- Four soft seasons. The extremes are humidity, not temperature — summer is sticky and grey, the shoulders are the reward. Aim for April and September–November for the best conditions.