Vietnam in January 2025: Top Places, Festivals & Tips

It's an ideal time to travel to Vietnam in January. You will seek the warmth of the summer sun, take in the breathtaking scenery of beach and sea, or go through the dry coolness of early spring, and spend some time exploring towering skyscrapers. The Vietnam tour in January offers a wide variety of options to suit every taste.

Vietnam's Weather in January

From north to south, Vietnam has a wide range of weather. In January, the average temperature is colder in the northern regions, compared to the warmer southern and central areas. Though the peak of the dry season comes, there could be a few rainy days at the beginning of the month in the inland mountains.

Vietnam's Weather Map in January

Northern Vietnam is chilly in January, averaging 18°C, with snowflakes occasionally dusting the highlands around Sapa. Central Vietnam enjoys mild, dry weather (20-25°C), perfect for activities like hiking in Ba Na Hills. The south is warmer at 26°C, with balmy weather and bright blue skies. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta are ideal for city strolls and scenic cruises.

Crowds and Costs

January coincides with the peak tourist season in Vietnam. The relatively dry weather and the pleasant temperature offer great conditions for the tour, and the grand Tet Festival also appeals to tourists.

January is busy with traffic on the streets and highways due to the lovely weather and the fascinating festival. Hotel prices will be higher than usual, especially in some popular tourist spots such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Thus, it's advisable to plan your itinerary and make arrangements ahead of time for your better experience.

Where to Go in January

Hanoi

As a city with a long history, Hanoi is regarded as one of the primary cultural centers of Vietnam, showing the colors of the Vietnamese dynasties. Engage yourself in full cultural enrichment at the Temple of Literature, the oldest university in this country. Head to the Old Quarter to undergo multiple architectural elegance from the influence of France and China. When the mysterious night blankets the city little by little, sauntering by the night market to devour local food.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bay is home to thousands of limestone karsts and islets of all shapes and sizes. You can take in beauty by kayaking, and marveling at nature's artistry. Don't miss the unique floating villages, where you can stay overnight, taste fresh seafood just caught from the sea, learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dishes, and immerse yourself in life on the water.

Phu Quoc Island

To embrace the warmth in a cold winter, Phu Quoc Island couldn't be more perfect. Lounging on the sandy shores to soak up the sun, sauntering along the beach, or diving to observe the sun shedding a dazzling light on the crystal-clear seawater. You can also hike through the Phu Quoc National Park for an encounter with lush flora, wildlife such as hornbills, and Suoi Tranh Waterfall.

Ho Chi Minh City

Traveling Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in balmy and rainless January brings a cozy and cheerful encounter. Explore historical monuments such as Cu Chi Tunnels and Reunification Palace, as well as cultural sites presenting exotic flavors like Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office. Take a glimpse of modern architecture for the cityscape. The graceful Saigon Opera House and the iconic skyscraper, the Bitexco Financial Tower Sky Deck, add to the city's prosperity.

Cu Chi Tunnels

What to Do & See in January

Enjoy the Water Puppet Show

A significant concentration of culture can be found in the water puppet show. It's a delightful drama that draws viewers of all ages in. You will gain insights into Vietnam's rich cultural legacy and folk traditions in an easy way. Cherish this family-friendly activity as a highlight of your visit to Vietnam. Though it's popular throughout Vietnam, you may prefer to enjoy this cultural gala in Hanoi, which boasts a dedicated theater.

Water Puppet Show

Take a Cyclo in Hanoi

A cyclo sightseeing tour in Hanoi is one of the classic ways to experience Vietnam. Cyclos are traditional bicycle rickshaws. Weaving through the alleys and streets, you are involved in the laughter of dwellers. Don't forget to snap photos when appreciating the city sights at a slower and leisurely pace. A cyclo tour provides a unique perspective on local life, making it a popular program. The unrivaled leisure experience definitely provides relaxation for the body and mind.

Sunset Cruises on Ha Long Bay

Nightlife is an indispensable part of Vietnam's daily life. A sunset cruise on Ha Long Bay adds a romantic atmosphere to your island tour. As the sun goes down behind the magnificent karsts, you will be immersed in an unparalleled ambiance. The breathtaking scene will hardly fade out of your mind. Raise a glass of champagne to the moment with your partners on the sunset cruise. Under the melodies of live music, you are close to the highlight of this enchanting trip.

Festivals and Events in January

Tet Nguyen Dan

Tet Nguyen Dan is also called Tet, which means the first day of the year. Vietnamese people celebrate this ceremonial event as their lunar new year.

During this festival, you can enjoy the visual feast the gorgeous and splendid fireworks show brings or jam into the streets to grasp how Vietnamese fend off evil spirits with firecrackers and drums. All you have to do is immerse yourself in the local culture and soak up the buzzing atmosphere.

Food is the soul of a traditional festival. Be sure to try some Vietnamese-style food exclusively for the holiday season. With glutinous rice as a primary ingredient, Banh tet gives a warm welcome to the sweet tooth. Other characteristic foods, like canh mang, which is dried young bamboo soup, are also worth a try.

Calligraphy During Tet Festival

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Sa Dec Flower Festival

Apart from the notable Da Lat Flower Festival, there are other large flower events in Vietnam. Sa Dec Flower Festival was held in Sa Dec, a place renowned as the second flower city after Da Lat.

The festival was celebrated in 2023 for the first time, featuring a variety of flowers, including exotic species. During the colorful activity, you can head to attractions like Sa Dec Field, Hung Thu Happy Land, Tu Ton Rose Garden and so on, and all of them are well ornamented. Imagine walking in the ocean of colorful flowers, immersed in the aromas, and understanding how important flowers are for Vietnamese people.

Vietnam Travel Tips in January

Pack Warm Clothes and Rain Gear

The north of Vietnam in January could be chilly and drop to the lower degree at night. A city such as Hanoi is around 17°C, which suggests the necessity of warm clothes like long sleeves and pants. Meanwhile, though this month is reckoned as the heart of the dry season, limited rain occurs. So stuffing umbrellas and raincoats would be a wise choice.

Pay Attention to Sun Protection

The southern parts are basking in dazzling sunshine, especially the beach. To avoid getting a tan or sunburn, sunglasses, sunscreen and light jackets are required. After a series of protection measures, bring your swimwear and enjoy your time.

Traveling to Vietnam in January? Check out These Great Itineraries

10-Day Vietnam Family Vacation

This tour well meets the needs of whole family. Take pleasure and get recreation in this restful trip by Cyclo, crab fishing, local cuisine cooking, and Vespa riding. There are plenty of activities for you to choose from. Contact us to customize your own style family tour!

8-Day Highlights of Hanoi and Saigon

In this condensed itinerary, you are expected to have a deeper understanding of Vietnam's geography, history and culture in Hanoi and Saigon, by visiting classic attractions like Temple of Literature, Karst Seascape and Cu Chi Tunnels, which will give you inspiration for real Vietnam.

14-Day Honeymoon in Vietnam

Grab a picture on Train Street with your significant other, embark on a cruise to Ha Long Bay, experience a moonlit nighttime ride through Saigon, and enjoy a seductive beach play. This trip will be unforgettable.