Seasons at a glance
| Season | Months | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| Dry season | December–April | Sunny, 31–34°C, low rain |
| Hot peak | March–May | Up to 35°C, very humid |
| Rainy season | May–November | Daily downpours, usually in the afternoon |
Month by month
| Month | Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| January | Dry, pleasant | Tet preparations, flower markets |
| February | Dry | Tet holiday (6 February 2027) |
| March | Dry, hot | Good for the Mekong Delta |
| April | Hottest | Reunification Day (30 April) holiday |
| May | Hot, rains begin | Fewer tourists |
| June–August | Rainy | Short storms, lower prices |
| September | Rainy | National Day (2 September) |
| October | Wettest | Possible street flooding at high tide |
| November | Rain easing | Good shoulder month |
| December | Dry | Christmas lights downtown |
Travelling during Tet
Tet (Lunar New Year) is Vietnam’s biggest holiday. In 2027, New Year’s Day falls on 6 February. The week before is festive, with a flower street on Nguyen Hue, but transport and hotels across Vietnam book out. For several days after, many restaurants, shops and some attractions close while locals return to their hometowns. Book early and expect higher prices.
Find tours & tickets in Ho Chi Minh CityBest time for the Mekong Delta
December to April is easiest for boat trips. From September to November, high water levels can flood some areas, but the countryside is lush.
Cheapest time to visit
The rainy season (June to October) usually has the lowest hotel prices. Plan indoor activities like museums and cafés for the afternoon.
Search cheap flights to Ho Chi Minh CityWhat to pack
- Light, breathable clothes, plus covered shoulders and knees for temples.
- A compact umbrella or poncho in the rainy season.
- Sunscreen, a hat and a refillable water bottle.
For events, opening hours and official visitor information, see Vietnam Travel, the official tourism site.
More Ho Chi Minh City guides
- Ho Chi Minh City travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh City itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh City airport to the city
- Cu Chi Tunnels tour
- Mekong Delta day trip
- Vietnam e-visa guide
FAQ: best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City
What is the best month to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
December, January or February: dry, sunny and slightly cooler.
Does it rain all day in Saigon?
Rarely. Rain usually comes as an intense storm lasting an hour or two in the afternoon.
Is Ho Chi Minh City hot all year?
Yes. Temperatures stay around 30–35°C year-round.
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