Vietnam in January: Weather, Crowds and More

Vietnam in January is one of the best months to travel to Vietnam. The weather is comfortably cool in the north and pleasantly warm in the south, with minimal rainfall – ideal conditions for exploring bustling cities, cruising Halong Bay, or relaxing on sun-drenched beaches. While popular spots like Hoi An or Phu Quoc can get busy, it’s not peak season yet, offering a sweet spot of good weather and manageable crowds. To make the most of your January visit to Vietnam, this blog shows you the weather in each region and recommends the best places to visit in January.

How is the Vietnam’s weather in January?

North 

In the north, including Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong, and Sapa, January is characterized by cool and dry weather. Temperatures typically range from 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F). While this might seem chilly compared to Vietnam’s usual tropical climate, it’s quite mild compared to winter in many Western countries. The cooler weather makes it perfect for exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi or trekking in the misty mountains of Sapa without the discomfort of summer heat.

The cooler weather in these northern destinations makes it perfect for exploring without the discomfort of summer heat, though you’ll need to pack accordingly for the colder temperatures, especially in mountainous areas.

Central

Central Vietnam, including cities like Hue and Hoi An, experiences slightly warmer temperatures in January, ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This region sees occasional light rain, but nothing that should deter your travel plans. The weather is ideal for exploring the ancient citadel of Hue or strolling through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An.

South

The south, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, enjoys warm and dry weather in January. Temperatures here range from 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F). This pleasant climate is perfect for city exploration, beach relaxation, or cruising along the Mekong River.

Why visit Vietnam in January?

• Ideal weather: The cool, dry climate in the north and the warm, sunny days in the south make January one of the best times to explore Vietnam comfortably.
• Stunning scenery: The rice terraces in Sapa are particularly beautiful in January, often shrouded in a light mist that adds to their mystique.
• Festivals: January often marks the lead-up to Tet (Vietnamese New Year), offering you a chance to experience pre-festival excitement and decorations.
• Diverse experiences: From the cool mountains of the north to the sunny beaches of the south, January allows you to experience Vietnam’s climatic diversity in comfort.

Crowds & Costs

January is considered a shoulder season in Vietnam, falling between the Christmas holidays and the Tet festival. This means you’ll encounter fewer crowds than during peak seasons, especially in the first half of the month.

However, be prepared for an increase in domestic travel and potentially higher prices as Tet approaches (usually late January or early February).

Accommodations and tours are generally cheaper than during peak season, but it’s still advisable to book in advance, especially for popular destinations like Ha Long Bay or Phu Quoc Island.

Things to Do & Best places to go in Vietnam in January

In the north

Hanoi: The cool January weather is perfect for exploring the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, sipping ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee) by Hoan Kiem Lake, or visiting historical sites like the Temple of Literature.

Ninh Binh: The cool weather is ideal for boat rides around Trang An Complex or Tam Coc and cycling in the countryside.

Halong Bay: A cruise through the limestone karsts of Halong Bay is particularly magical this time of year, with misty mornings creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Sapa and Ha Giang in the far north offer breathtaking experiences for those seeking mountain adventures. Though not lush green in January, Sapa’s terraced rice fields have a unique beauty when blanketed in mist. Trekking here allows you to interact with ethnic minority groups like the Hmong and Red Dao. Ha Giang, known for its winding roads and dramatic landscapes, is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts. In January, you will be captivated by the blooming flowers, especially peach blossoms, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for sightseeing and trekking.

In central Vietnam

Hue: With the cool and sometimes drizzly, but the weather of Hue is generally pleasant for exploring the imperial city.

Hoi An: The mild temperatures are ideal for cycling through the surrounding countryside, and taking a cooking class. It might have some occasional rain with charming misty mornings perfect for photography in the Ancient Town or you can simply wander the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town.

Beach relaxation:

• Phu Quoc and Con Dao Islands, off the southern coast, are especially popular as they offer a perfect escape from the winter chill. Phu Quoc, just a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City, feels worlds away from the bustling mainland. Its pristine beaches, like Sao Beach with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, are truly mesmerizing. For those interested in history the Con Dao Islands offer a unique blend of beautiful serene beaches and somber historical sites, including the infamous Con Dao Prison.
• For a more off-beat beach experience, consider Quy Nhon in central Vietnam. This lesser-known coastal city offers a glimpse into local life away from the tourist crowds. Its long stretches of sandy beaches, like Ky Co Beach, rival those of more famous destinations, and the seafood here is exceptionally fresh and delicious.

Mekong Delta: For a taste of the Mekong Delta lifestyle, head to Can Tho. January’s dry weather makes it perfect for exploring the region’s famous floating markets, like Cai Rang. Here, you can witness the vibrant early morning trading of fruits, vegetables, and other goods directly from boat to boat.

Whether you’re drawn to beaches, mountains, historical sites, or cultural experiences, Vietnam in January offers a diverse array of options to suit every traveler’s taste.

Recommended tours for January

Below are our suggested tours you can take as references. These tours are customizable to match your travel needs from experiences, budget, and accommodation. It means it is designed only for you, not a join-in group tour.

National Events, Holidays & Festivities

While January itself doesn’t host major national holidays, it’s a time of preparation for Tet, the Vietnamese New Year. This preparation period offers its own unique experiences:

• Tet Flower Markets: In the weeks leading up to Tet, cities burst with color as flower markets pop up everywhere.
• New Year Decorations: Streets and buildings are adorned with red and gold decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
• Kitchen God Day: Occurring a week before Tet, this day involves interesting rituals and offerings.

FAQ

Is January a good time to visit Vietnam?

Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Vietnam. The weather is generally pleasant across the country, with cool temperatures in the north and warm, dry conditions in the south. It’s less crowded than during peak seasons, offering a good balance of comfortable climate and manageable tourist numbers.

Which city is best to visit in Vietnam in January?

This depends on your preferences, but here are some top picks:

• For cultural experiences: Hanoi or Hoi An
• For beach relaxation: Phu Quoc
• For natural beauty: Sapa or Ha Long Bay
• For urban exploration: Ho Chi Minh City

How rainy is Vietnam in January?

January is one of the driest months in Vietnam, especially in the north and south. The central region may experience some light rain, but it’s generally not enough to disrupt travel plans.

What clothes to wear in Vietnam in January?

North: Pack layers including light jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. Don’t forget a warmer jacket for evenings or trips to mountainous areas.

Central: Bring a mix of light and warmer clothes. A light jacket or sweater for evenings is useful.

South: Light, breathable clothing is sufficient. Bring a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces.

Best beaches in Vietnam in January

January is an excellent time for beach holidays in southern Vietnam. Some of the best options include:

• Phu Quoc Island: Offers beautiful beaches and clear waters.
• Mui Ne: Known for its sand dunes and water sports.
• Con Dao Islands: Perfect for those seeking a more secluded beach experience.
• Nha Trang: A popular resort town with a long stretch of beach.

Remember, while these southern beaches are ideal in January, central beaches like those in Hoi An or Da Nang might be a bit cool for swimming but perfect for long walks and sunbathing.

>>> Read more: 8 Best Vietnam beach towns – From popular spots to hidden gems

Planning a trip to Vietnam in January?

If you’re still unsure about the best way to experience Vietnam’s charm in this January, you can check out our list of Vietnam tour packages as references from budget to activities. We already updated the price in 2024-2025 so I believe it will be very helpful to you. We are organizing private tours to Vietnam and multi countries, which means your journey can be customized to match your travel preferences. If you looking for a lifetime experience email us at [email protected] or simply get the quote here.

In conclusion, Vietnam in January offers something for everyone. The north is cool and dry, perfect for exploring cities and mountains. The south is warm and sunny, ideal for beach holidays. With comfortable weather and fewer crowds than peak season, it’s a great time to visit.