Vietnam in February 2025: New Year (Tet), Beaches & Travel Tips

Travel to Vietnam in February, a time of perfect weather and a lively atmosphere. Bask in the excitement of festive celebrations, delve into the attractive stories of age-old castles, unveil the awe-inspiring art pieces of nature, and immerse in the colorful local life. We will share with you the best places to visit and the best things to do for your Vietnam tour in February.

Vietnam's Weather in February

The climate in February is particularly appealing, offering a unique blend of cool, warm, and dry conditions that make it an ideal time for a Vietnam travel.

Vietnam's Weather Map in February

Southern Vietnam enjoys a tropical climate, with February marking the dry season and temperatures of 23–33°C. It's a great time to explore Can Tho's floating markets in the Mekong Delta or relax on the beaches of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. Central Vietnam offers warm, dry coastal weather (21–27°C) and cooler highlands, making Hoi An and Hue especially appealing. Northern Vietnam is cooler, with temperatures of 14–23°C, ideal for exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ha Long Bay, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The Old Quarter

Crowds & Costs

The crowds and costs of traveling in Vietnam in February vary with the place and time. You can share the popular attractions and festive atmosphere with lively crowds, or let loose in hidden natural beauty.

Popular destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and UNESCO World Heritage sites see a significant influx of visitors. It's advisable to book your flights and accommodations in advance. For those seeking a quieter experience, the Hai Van Pass and the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offer an escape.

During the Tet Festival, the crowds and prices can surge. To be able to steep in the festive spirit, plan ahead, embrace the festive chaos, and take time to explore the road less traveled.

Best Places to Travel in February

Hanoi

Hanoi is a perfect blend of old and new, with street markets and historical landmarks intertwined. Hanoi Old Quarter is a must-visit, with its narrow streets filled with shops selling traditional goods, from silk to spices. Minutes away is Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene spot to escape the hustle and bustle, with the peaceful Ngoc Son Temple. The cheerful celebrations of Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, will enrich your experiences. You can witness colorful parades, traditional music performances, and special food markets.

Hue

Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in culture, boasting many well-known historical sites. The main attraction is the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex of temples, pavilions, moats, gates, and museums. The Thien Mu Pagoda, with stunning views of the Perfume River, and the royal tombs, especially the Tomb of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh, are also worth visiting. Don't miss the local dishes like Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup that will delight you.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and excellent diving sites. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling or diving to explore the coral reefs in Nha Trang Bay, or take a boat tour to the nearby islands. You can also explore the Po Nagar Cham Towers, an ancient temple complex, and the VinWonders Nha Trang, accessible by a cable car that provides stunning views of the bay. For a unique experience, head to the Thap Ba Hot Springs Centre to enjoy a relaxing mud bath.

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Hoi An

Hoi An in February is a fusion of magic, thrill, and tranquility. Stroll through the narrow lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town and immerse in the history that comes alive through well-preserved architecture blending indigenous and foreign styles. Explore the colorful local markets, where you can indulge in traditional Vietnamese cuisine and shop for exquisite handicrafts. A trip to the Cua Dai Beach offers a serene retreat, while the My Son Sanctuary provides a glimpse into the ancient Champa civilization.

What to Do in February

Motorbike the Hai Van Pass

For the adventurous souls, motorbiking the Hai Van Pass is a must-do in February. Aptly named Sea Clouds, the pass offers a blend of misty mountains and historical sites.

This 21-kilometer stretch between Hue and Da Nang unveils sweeping views of the towering Truong Son mountains and the azure East Sea. Kickstart your adventure in vibrant Da Nang, before ascending into the clouds. Halfway up, pause at the ancient Hai Van Gate, soaking in the history. Further along, the beaches of Lang Co beckon.

Explore the Phu Quoc Island

February is an exceptional time to visit Phu Quoc as it's the dry season with plenty of sunshine and clear skies.

Phu Quoc boasts numerous stunning beaches, such as Long Beach, Sao Beach, and Khem Beach, great for sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The Phu Quoc National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers hiking trails through lush jungle with rare wildlife. For a deeper experience, explore the traditional fishing villages, the Phu Quoc Prison Museum, or the night markets in Duong Dong town. Phu Quoc is also famous for its pearl farms, where you can learn about the pearl cultivation process.

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Delve Into the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Venture into the heart of Vietnam's subterranean wonderland, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this February. Home to over 300 caves and grottoes, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a cavers' paradise.

Begin your adventure with Son Doong, a stupendous cavern that could house a 40-story skyscraper. Trek through its lush jungles, cross its subterranean rivers and marvel at the colossal stalagmites. Next, descend into Paradise Cave for the mesmerizing stalactites shimmering in the soft light and venture to Dark Cave to further explore the unique cave ecosystems, teeming with many species.

Visit the Floating Markets in Can Tho

Feel the Mekong Delta's heartbeat, Can Tho's floating markets, where boats brimming with fresh produce create a waterborne culture.

The Cai Rang and Phong Dien markets are the crown jewels of Can Tho. As dawn breaks, watch the river come alive with hundreds of boats, each laden with fruits, vegetables, and local specialties. At the markets, you'll see the unique way of life on the Mekong Delta, with families living on their boats and conducting their business on the river. You can also venture beyond the markets to the traditional noodle factories and the lush orchards.

Floating Markets in Can Tho

Cruise Through the Ha Long Bay

Uncover the magic of Ha Long Bay this February, where serene emerald waters and majestic limestone karsts await.

Start your adventure with a sunrise cruise, navigating through jade-green waters dotted with iconic limestone formations. Discover the mesmerizing Sung Sot Cave, boasting hidden chambers and dazzling stalactites. Climb to the summit of Ti Top Island for jaw-dropping panoramic views of the bay. For thrill-seekers, Cat Ba Island is a playground of kayaking adventures through secret lagoons. Don't miss the floating seafood market, where freshly caught prawns and oysters are cooked and served with a side of magnificent vistas.

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Events & Festivals

Tet Festival (Vietnamese New Year)

Tet Festival is a time of family, feasting, and fresh starts in Vietnam's culture, falling on the first day in the lunar calendar, usually between late January and early February. People will enjoy a vacation lasting 3 to 7 days.

Every place, from the city streets to the temples, is awash with red and gold decorations, symbolizing luck and prosperity. Traditional dances move through the crowds, while the air is filled with the scent of incense and yellow apricot blossoms. You can partake in the local custom of giving and receiving red envelopes, containing money for good luck, and sample a variety of delicious dishes. For richer experiences, you can visit the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, where locals make offerings for academic success, and enjoy the fireworks display at midnight on New Year's Eve in Ho Chi Minh City.

Make Delicious Food During Tet

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Vietnam Travel Tips in February

Make Plans in Advance for Tet Festival

Tet (New Year) Festival sees large numbers of celebrations but also many closures. Plan your itinerary carefully and book accommodations and tickets in advance.

Stay Hydrated in Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam experiences a dry climate in February. Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.

Pack for Outdoor Activities

February is a great time for outdoor activities. Pack suitable clothing and footwear for beach activities, hiking, or motorbiking.

Traveling to Vietnam in February? Check out These Great Itineraries

Best of Vietnam - 10 Days. Explore Hanoi's iconic attractions, cruise the marvelous Halong Bay for two days and one night, uncover Hoi An's charm on an eco-tour and a basket boat ride, delve into war history at historical sites like Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City, and end with a Mekong Delta adventure through lush waterways and vibrant villages. 

Vietnam Veteran Tour - 11 Days. Visit the battlefield sites at Ba Den in Ho Chi Minh City, the heart-wrenching Son My Memorial near Da Nang, and the Demilitarized Zone in Hue. In Hanoi, get insights from a former Vietnamese pilot. Next, you can choose to balance the somber history with a stroll in the beautiful Hoi An ancient town or an overnight cruise across Halong Bay. 

Vietnam Vacation with Authentic Local Experience - 12 Days. Explore Saigon's French vibe, paddle through the Mekong Delta to unveil the local life, and immerse in Hue and Hoi An's timeless charm. Don't miss the ethereal Halong Bay and a cyclo ride in Hanoi's Old Quarter.