Vietnam in May 2025: A Pleasant Time to Travel

Even in the transition season like May, Vietnam is still fascinating. Traveling in May can expect warm temperatures and a mix of sunshine and drizzle. It's perfect for exploring outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and vibrant festivals. Plus, with reasonable prices and tranquil crowds, you can travel with ease and relaxation. Come and reveal the magic Vietnam tour with us.

Vietnam Weather in May

Traveling to Vietnam in May marks the transition from spring to summer. The weather with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C is generally warm and humid.

Vietnam Weather Map in May

Northern Vietnam, including popular destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, and Sapa, enjoys warm and dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking in the terraced fields of Sapa. Central Vietnam, with destinations such as Hue and Nha Trang, boasts sunny beaches and pleasant conditions. Southern Vietnam sees a mix of sunny and rainy days, perfect for exploring Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.

Crowds and Costs

May is a budget-friendly month for a Vietnam tour, as hotel and flight prices tend to drop after the peak season. With fewer crowds around, it's an ideal month for leisure activities. You can also enjoy better service, smoother traffic, and quieter attractions. However, popular destinations like Hanoi and Ha Long Bay may remain expensive with a vibrant atmosphere.

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Where to Go In May

Hanoi

Traveling in May to Hanoi witnesses a transition from spring to summer. The warm and humid weather won't affect your outdoor activities. From the iconic Hanoi Opera House to the Hoa Lo prison, every corner of Hanoi lies classic charm. You can also visit Hoan Kiem Lake, which has emerald waters that offer a refreshing break. For a more vibrant experience, make sure to indulge in the Old Quarter and Hanoi Train Street.

Old Quarter, Hanoi

Ha Long Bay

With warm and sunny weather, Ha Long Bay is a pleasure time in May. Under the clear blue sky, you're free to immerse yourself in water activities and cave discoveries. Explore the floating fishing villages that showcase the authentic Vietnamese lifestyle or admire the stunning scenery of Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. No matter what you do, Ha Long Bay will surely leave you an unforgettable journey.

Ha Long Bay

Hoi An

As summer is just around the corner, traveling in May offers the perfect blend of comfort and dryness. Once a renowned trading port, the city is influenced by exotic cultures. Historic architecture in Eastern and Western styles is the best proof. Taking a sunset boat ride along the Thu Bon River is the best way to immerse yourself in the city's magical atmosphere. When you're strolling around, don't forget to try traditional clothes making.

Hoi An

Nha Trang

Nha Trang, this beautiful coastal city truly shines as a beach destination in May. Beaches allow you to enjoy water activities. In Hon Chong Beach, you can see the unusual layout of rocks in Hon Chong Promontory. Indulging in diving and seafood tasting would be a delight, and you'll have a blast enjoying mud baths in Thap Ba Hot Spring Centre and visiting Po Nagar Cham Towers.

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Sapa

Sapa provides an escape from the heat in this month. The weather is pleasant and relatively cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Sapa is famous for its rice terraces covering the mountain from top to bottom. Taking a cable car to the top of Fansipan Mountain reveals a majestic view, even on cloudy days. Besides natural beauty, you can also explore its unique culture by visiting minority villages and local markets.

Sapa

What to Do & See in May

Boat Cruising in Ha Long Bay

Boasting enormous islands, caves, and floating villages, Ha Long Bay has limitless charm. When traveling in this month, you can not only experience what Ha Long Bay has to offer, but also enjoy leisure time on the boat.

During your cruise, you'll indulge in kayaking, diving, exploring caves, and island hopping. Or you can simply stay on your cruise and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. With the serene waters and clear skies of May, your visit to Ha Long Bay will be precious and unforgettable.

Create Your Own Vietnamese Clothing

As Vietnamese clothing comes with significant characteristics, why not create your own Vietnamese clothing in local shops?

With a heritage in textile production and skilled tailors, Hoi An is considered to be the best place for clothing made. Take a stroll around Hoi An Ancient Town to encounter some clothing shops around for decades. Having designers create the one and only Vietnamese clothing for you is new and exciting. With bargaining price and comfortable fabrics, there's no better souvenir to take home than a tailor-made piece.

Traditional Vietnamese Clothing

Try Your First Mud Bath

Traveling in May to Vietnam is perfect for relaxation seekers. Picture yourself in a cozy mud tub, allowing your body and mind to unwind. There's nothing compared to the comfort of a mud bath brings.

One of the best places to experience mud baths is in Nha Trang, which ranges from private to family-sized. The tubs are placed outdoors, surrounded by greenery and flowers. The mud used in a mud bath is known for its detoxification, skin protection, and muscle pain reduction. The pleasant feeling and intimate service make every visit a memorable one.

Release Lanterns at Hoi An Lantern Festival

Releasing paper flower lanterns is the most anticipated activity during the Hoi An Lantern Festival. These beautiful lanterns can be purchased at the riverbank. To travel along the river, you can rent a sampan boat. It can take you to the ideal releasing place. In Vietnamese culture, each lantern represents one wish for health, happiness, and wealth. Taking part in the activity is perfect to immerse yourself in the festive mood.

Lanterns in Hoi An

Festivals and Events in May

Hue Festival

When traveling in May, discover Vietnamese culture and history with a list of exciting celebrations. Every other year, Hue holds a magnificent event along the Perfume River and city.

Unique events like the Hue Poetry Festival and Ao Dai fashion shows will be held. Sporting activities like human chess and boat racing will have your heart racing, while street performances, art exhibitions, and movies will immerse you in the vibrant festive vibe.

Vesak

Also known as the Buddha's birthday, Vesak celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death. Buddhists will be offering respect and love to the Buddha by decorating temples and recreating scenes of the Buddha's life. On May 12nd, 2025, locals and visitors can expect vegetarian meals, simple parades, and lantern ceremonies during the event. It's a perfect time to look closely at Vietnamese religious culture when you travel in this month.

Ho Chi Minh's Birthday

Every 19th of May, the whole country is decorated with red flags, banners, and billboards to celebrate President Ho Chi Minh's birthday.

Every year, the country will become a unique blend of exhibitions and vibrant performances honoring President Ho. However, celebrations vary each year. While strolling around the street, you may encounter beautiful flower offerings.

Vietnam Travel Tips in May

Eat Early As the Locals Do

Savoring local dishes is a must-do for traveling anywhere. And travel to Vietnam is no exception. To fully immerse yourself in local foodie culture, it's better to understand Vietnamese eating habits. One of the eating habits of local people is eating early. Most Vietnamese are early risers, so breakfast time begins early in the day. Lunch and dinner follow a similar pattern. If you miss meal time, you can always find late-night snacks in night markets.

Vietnamese Spring Rolls With Meatballs

Decide the Exact Bay for Your Cruise

While Ha Long Bay is a well-known cruise destination, two other options, Lan Ha Bay to the south and Bai Tu Long Bay to the east, are worth considering when traveling in May.

Although they share similar geological features, each bay offers a distinct experience. Ha Long Bay is more developed and attracts more tourists, whereas Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are quieter with unspoiled landscapes. Consider your preferences for vibrant activities or peaceful escapes when planning your cruise.

Let's Explore the World Together

Isn't it exciting to travel in May to Vietnam? Why not venture to other destinations with us? Contact us and let's design your dream trip together.