Vietnam in October 2024: Weather & Things to Do Guide

Travel to Vietnam in October to enjoy lively floating markets, peaceful river cruises, and leisurely beach getaways. Taste the diverse culinary delights, from sizzling street food to exotic tropical fruits. Delve into the breathtaking countryside, where rice paddies stretch endlessly under clear blue skies. We will share with you the best places to visit and the best things to do for your Vietnam tour in October.

Vietnam's Weather in October

October marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, offering a pleasant mix of warmth, low humidity, and intermittent showers. This makes it an ideal time for travel enthusiasts to explore Vietnam's diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences.

Vietnam's Weather Map in October

Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam in October is a delightful blend of sunny days and sporadic showers. The average temperature ranges between 23°C and 31°C, ideal for exploring the vibrant streets in Ho Chi Minh City or floating markets in Can Tho. With its cooler climate, Da Lat is a refreshing contrast to other Southern places and boasts magnificent waterfalls.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam in October is marked by the rainy season, bringing frequent downpours. Despite the rain, Central Vietnam offers enriching indoor experiences. Delve into Hue's ancient citadel, with its regal architecture and museums. Wander through Hoi An's enchanting, lantern-lit streets, visiting tailor shops and local artisans. In Da Nang, savor culinary delights with cooking classes and explore the Cham Museum's ancient artifacts.

Royal Toms of Hue

Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam provides a cooler climate in October, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 28°C. Hanoi offers a wealth of experiences from exploring the Old Quarter to enjoying a traditional water puppet show. Sapa is perfect for trekking, with its stretching terraced fields and charming ethnic villages.

Best Places to Travel in October

Ho Chi Minh City

In October, Ho Chi Minh City radiates vibrant energy, with tropical rains adding a refreshing touch to the bustling atmosphere. Explore the architectural marvels of Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, where colonial history meets modern dynamism. Tao Dan Park transforms into a lush green retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War, provide an insight into the guerrilla warfare tactics. As night falls, the nightlife comes alive. Rooftop bars like Chill Sky Bar offer panoramic city views, while night markets like the Ben Thanh Market serve a variety of local delicacies.

My Tho and Can Tho

As floodwaters recede in October, My Tho and Can Tho in the Mekong Delta thrive with lush landscapes, vibrant waterways, and fresh produce. In the city of My Tho, a boat tour along the Tien River offers panoramic views of the four islands known as Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise. Each island has its unique charm, from orchards and coconut candy factories to traditional music performances. Can Tho is famous for its floating markets. The Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest in Can Tho, is a bustling scene of vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies from their boats. Besides, the Can Tho Bridge offers a stunning view of the Hau River, especially at sunset.

Cai Rang Floating Market

Da Lat

Da Lat reveals its splendor under the cool weather and clear skies of October. Visit the Valley of Love, a picturesque park with flower gardens, lakes, and horse-drawn carriages. Marvel at the majestic Pongour Waterfall, its cascading glory sure to leave you in awe. Enjoy the tranquility of Truc Lam Zen Monastery, its serene ambiance amplified by the Tuyen Lam Lake and the surrounding pine forests. Step into royal life of the 1930s at the Bao Dai Summer Palace, the retreat of Vietnam's last emperor. Explore the Da Lat Market to taste authentic cuisine and find unique keepsakes. And for a surreal twist, the whimsical Crazy House stands as an architectural masterpiece that sparks your imagination.

Ninh Binh

With its stunning landscapes in October and unique cultural experiences, Ninh Binh is perfect for a memorable autumn getaway. You can start at Tam Coc, where boats ride along the Ngo Dong River, with mesmerizing views of golden rice fields framed by towering karst formations. The Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons with its boat tours through striking caves and grottoes. For history enthusiasts, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu provides a glimpse into Vietnam's past with its well-preserved temples and monuments. Don't miss the Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of picturesque caves and temples nestled in the mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

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What to Do in October

Explore Top Diving Spots

Southern Vietnam, especially regions like Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao, features ideal weather and superb diving conditions in October. The waters are generally clearer, offering a spectacular view of marine life in its full brilliance.

Nha Trang, famous for its vivid coral reefs, invites you to scuba dive among colorful sea creatures and discover fascinating underwater caves. Phu Quoc, with its crystal-clear waters, offers exhilarating encounters with elusive barracudas, tropical fishes that shimmer, and intriguing shipwrecks. The secluded Con Dao archipelago is home to an unspoiled marine ecosystem, with marvelous sea turtles and diverse coral gardens.

Embark on Island-Hopping

Vietnam's long coastline and numerous islands offer a fantastic island-hopping opportunity. October is ideal for the adventure, with favorable weather and fewer crowds than peak seasons.

In Lan Ha Bay, discover its tranquil lagoons and floating villages, experience local life, and swim or snorkel in its crystal-clear waters. Drive to the iconic Ha Long Bay, where you can explore the surreal Sung Sot Cave, kayak in hidden lagoons, and relax on secluded beaches amidst emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. Drive for 1.5 hours to Cat Ba Island to trek through Cat Ba National Park, home to rare wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views from Ngu Lam Peak.

Trek Through Sapa

As the monsoon ends in October, Sapa is left with crisp, refreshing air, making it the perfect time for trekking. This is a must for both nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Trekking through Sapa, you'll traverse verdant valleys, cross suspension bridges over rushing rivers, and encounter colorful ethnic minority villages. Each step unveils picturesque landscapes, from the cascading Silver Waterfall to the lofty peaks of Fansipan, known as the "Roof of Indochina." Along the way, local Hmong, Red Dao, and Tay communities warmly welcome you, offering insights into their rich traditions and handicrafts.

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Events & Festivals

Hoi An Lantern Festival

Hoi An Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month, transforms the town into a luminary wonderland, illuminating the evening sky and reflecting brilliantly off the Thu Bon River.

Join in the collective release of floating lanterns into the river, a symbolic gesture of peace and hope. Wander the atmospheric streets, where traditional music echoes and aromas of Vietnamese street food fill the air. Visit bustling night markets offering beautiful lanterns, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

In October, Hoi An Lantern Festival takes on an extra charm. The lanterns often carry themes of harvest and gratitude, reflecting the spirit of the season. You can also participate in unique workshops to create lanterns, guided by local artisans. This gives you a personalized souvenir to remember this mesmerizing event.

Crowds & Costs

October in Vietnam is part of the shoulder season, attracting a moderate influx of tourists as the high season approaches. It's an appealing time for those seeking excellent experiences without the high-season crowds.

In popular destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Long Bay, you'll encounter moderate crowds and slightly elevated prices. It's a good idea to book everything in advance. Alternatively, the less-explored regions like the mountainous haven of Sapa and the island utopia of Phu Quoc offer a different flavor of Vietnam. These hidden gems, with their lower costs and sparse crowds, are perfect for budget travelers and those yearning for serenity.

Beach of Phu Quoc

Vietnam Travel Tips in October

Stay Hydrated in Southern Vietnam

Although October marks the beginning of the cooler season, temperatures can still be over 30°C sometimes, particularly in the south. Ensure to stay hydrated by always carrying a bottle of water.

Enjoy the Mekong Delta With Health in Mind

While exploring the Mekong Delta in October, protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases by using insect repellent and wearing. It's also advisable to drink only bottled water and eat fully cooked food to avoid any potential health issues.

Venture Safely in Sapa's Wilderness

For travelers planning to hike in Sapa in October, ensure you have sturdy footwear, appropriate clothing, and basic first aid supplies. The weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for sudden changes. Always follow marked trails and consider hiring a local guide for safety.

Traveling to Vietnam in October? Check out These Great Itineraries

Luxury Vietnam Tour with Lan Ha Bay - 12 Days

Begin in Ho Chi Minh City with the Reunification Palace and Saigon Central Post Office. Enjoy a private overnight cruise in the Mekong Delta, fly to Hoi An for the ancient town and a candlelit bamboo raft dinner. Discover Hanoi's Old Quarter by cyclo and watch a water puppet show. Conclude with a luxury cruise through Lan Ha Bay's stunning karsts.

South Vietnam with Nha Trang - 10 Days

Start in Ho Chi Minh City with colonial landmarks and the Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the Mekong's charm in My Tho and Can Tho. In Da Lat, feel the royal charm of the Bao Dai Summer Palace. Conclude with three nights in Nha Trang for beach relaxation or scuba diving before flying home from Ho Chi Minh City.

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Revel in Saigon's mixed flavor of Vietnam and France, explore the exotic Mekong Delta by canoe, and delight in the timeless beauty of Hue and Hoi An. Enjoy a cyclo ride through Hanoi's Old Quarter and marvel at the stunning Ha Long Bay.