Seasons of Hanoi Explained (& what to pack for each one!)

Vietnam is known to be a tropical country, with only two seasons: the wet and the dry season. While that may be true in the country’s southern parts, its northern territories enjoy all 4 seasons. And since Hanoi is situated in Northern Vietnam, you will have the opportunity to experience all four seasons there, that is if you are planning to have an extended vacation in the city.

Although it doesn’t really snow in Hanoi winter season can be brutal a houses in Vietnam are not built with a central heating. While in Sa Pa (6-8 hours from Hanoi), the roads and mountains can freeze between the end of December until the middle of January. 

Below we’ll cover the different seasons of Hanoi to help you decide what to pack for your Vietnam trip!

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT SEASONS OF HANOI?

When is summer in Hanoi?

From May to August is considered the summer season in Hanoi. You can expect warm weather, especially in July, which has the hottest temperatures of the year.

However, Vietnam is a tropical country, so you could experience unexpected rains every now and then, so it’s handy to always have a lightweight rain poncho in arms reach even if the sun is high and mighty.

Also, to protect your belongings, I highly recommend having a water-resistant, or better yet, a water-proof bag.

• Expected temperature: 32°C (89.6°F)

ALSO READ: How to get to Sapa from Hanoi and Best Halong Bay cruises

When is fall in Hanoi?

Fall in Hanoi begins in September and ends in November. Generally speaking, ‘tis the season to be jolly in the city because it is the season when the warmth of the sun isn’t as fierce, and the blow of the wind is friendly.

This is the season when the leaves of Hanoi welcome the autumn season by changing their colors from green to yellow coupled with blooming flowers, which makes for a great ambiance for picture-taking. This is also the best time to get on a push bike and enjoy the small alleys of Hanoi.

These are some of the reasons why the fall season in Hanoi is preferred by many travelers. If this is the vibe that your soul seeks, then definitely visit the city during the autumn period.

• Expected temperature: 25°C (77°F)

When is winter in Hanoi?

Winter lasts from December to February are the coldest months in Hanoi. If you want to experience the cold persona of Hanoi, then definitely visit between these months. However, expect that the temperature can drop down to 10°C (50°F), which can feel colder than it sounds due to the humidity. So if you’re wondering what to wear in Vietnam at that time, think thick, warm clothes!

However unfriendly the cold weather in Hanoi during winter is, this is also the time when body-warming Vietnamese street foods becomes available from almost every corner of the city; you can get yourself a serving of hot Vietnamese-style congee also known as cháo sườn. You should also try tasting different snail (Ốc) dishes, which is another popular winter food in the city.

• Expected temperature: 10°C (50°F) – 17.2°C (63°F)

When is spring in Hanoi?

Beginning in February and lasting until April is Hanoi’s spring season. This is the time when the greens of the city are at their best because this is the time when leaves from the trees grow back; the time when flowers ephemerally decorate Hanoi’s surroundings. If you’re a nature lover, then this is the best season to visit Hanoi.

Hanoi can also be very humid during this season, it’s best to keep yourself hydrated during your visit. The humidity also means that the temperature will feel hotter than it is so don’t be fooled by the thermostat. 

Other than the heavenly drizzles, you can also expect big meals of traditional Vietnamese cuisine because this is the season when Tet Nguyen Dan, also popularly known as Tet, is celebrated by the locals. A festival to show respect to their ancestors as well as to show gratitude for their loved ones; a welcoming party of sorts for the Vietnamese new year.

• Expected temperature: 20°C (68°F) – 25°C (77°F)

When is the rainy season in Hanoi?

The rainy season in Hanoi is from April to June. This is honestly the time of the year you probably should skip Hanoi. Apart from it can be dangerous to drive a motorbike for hours there are also chances that some tours are fully booked or many people would prefer staying in – in short, you won’t be able to see and experience the real charm of Hanoi.

The rain pours heavy. If you find yourself already booked or made plans during this season, the best you can do is pack waterproof jackets, have rain cover for your backpack, and perhaps set your mind that your plans might not go as you expect them and that’s okay.

• Expected temperature: 25°C (77°F) – 30°C (86°F) 

The perfect weather is subject to an individual’s personal preferences. Some people, especially from cold countries appreciate a hot climate, while people from countries with consistently warm temperatures might want to chill down in a place with lower temperatures. Know that whatever weather your heart so desires, you will certainly find it in the different seasons in Hanoi.

We hope that this article helped you decide when to visit Vietnam. So, when are you visiting Hanoi? Do you prefer summer, winter, or falls? We’d love to hear your thoughts through the comment section below. Wrapping this up by wishing you a joyful journey to Hanoi!