Weather and Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in October

Are you planning to travel to Vietnam in October but don’t know if is it worth visiting? Look no further, October marks the beginning of peak season for international travelers coming to Vietnam with the pleasant weather in most regions. That offers you a chance to really enjoy Vietnam the best.

How is the weather in Vietnam in October?

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The weather in Vietnam in October is generally pleasant, with varying conditions across the country – the north experiences cooler, drier conditions, the central region sees heavy monsoon rains, and the south enjoys sunny, slightly less humid weather as the rainy season winds down.

Northern Vietnam

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October marks the gradual end of the wet season in North Vietnam. By the end of the month, temperatures drop sharply, averaging 77°F (25°C) as the region moves towards the cool, dry winter. The weather in popular mountainous regions like Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, and Ha Giang is mostly dry and sunny, making it an ideal time for trekking. Additionally, October and November are also among the best months to explore Hanoi and Halong Bay.

Central Vietnam

In Central Vietnam, the northeast monsoon is at its peak during October, bringing heavy storms, prolonged rains, and potential flooding, especially in Hoi An. Temperatures average around 75-81°F (24-27°C), and while there may be some sunny periods, this is not the best time for a beach vacation.

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The rains and possible typhoons will continue to affect the coast through November, but in Dalat and the Central Highlands, the heavy rains begin to ease by the end of the month. Central Vietnam in October can witness some flooding though so be careful for planning to visit in October.

Southern Vietnam

South Vietnam gradually emerges from its six-month monsoon season by the end of October, with the southern beach resorts basking in increasing sunshine. While it still rains an average of 14 days during the month, the rainfall is not as heavy as in September and gradually decreases as the month progresses. Temperatures hold steady at around 81°F (27°C), making it a good time to visit the Mekong Delta and the beach resorts, including the islands of Con Dao and Phu Quoc.

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in October

October is an ideal time for you to visit North and South Vietnam with its pleasant weather and fresh landscape after rains in the rainy season before. While Central witnesses the peak time of the rainy season it could be not a great idea to visit. Here are some of the top destinations worth visiting in Vietnam during October:

Northern Highlights

• Hanoi – Autumn romance, golden leaves, and pleasant weather.
• Sapa – Trekking through cool valleys, with post-harvest terraces and buckwheat flowers.
• Ha Giang – The Buckwheat Flower Festival makes October the most colorful month here.
• Ha Long Bay – Warm enough for swimming, fewer storms than summer.
• Ninh Binh – Golden harvest paddies and clear skies for boat rides.

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Central Highlights

• Hoi An – Lantern Festival reflected in rain-soaked streets.
• Da Nang – Cultural sights and day trips, though beach swimming is limited.
• Hue – Atmospheric in mist and rain; ideal for royal cuisine and tomb visits.
• Quang Binh (Phong Nha) – Best for cave exploration, even in rainy weather.

Southern Highlights

• Ho Chi Minh City – Lively streets as the city dries out.
• Mekong Delta – End of the floating season, lush landscapes and cultural tours.
• Phu Quoc – Beaches begin their peak season with more sunshine.
• Mui Ne – Great for kitesurfing as winds pick up.
• Da Lat – Cool mountain breezes, perfect for hiking and waterfalls.

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Festivals & Events in October

• Vietnam Women’s Day (Oct 20) – Celebrated nationwide with flowers, gifts, and festive activities.
• Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu) – If the lunar calendar places it in October, expect lantern parades, mooncakes, and children’s celebrations.
• Ha Giang Buckwheat Flower Festival – A highlight of October and November, with music, dance, and stunning fields of flowers.
• Hoi An Lantern Festival – Held on the 14th day of the lunar month, making October nights magical.

What to Pack for Vietnam in October

• North: Light clothing for the day, a sweater/jacket for cool evenings.
• Central: Rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and quick-dry clothing.
• South: Light, breathable clothes, sunhat, and sunscreen.
• Essentials everywhere: Umbrella, insect repellent, waterproof bag for electronics.

Suggested Vietnam Itinerary for October

10–14 Days

• North: 4–5 days (Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay).
• Central: 3–4 days (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang).
• South: 3–4 days (HCMC, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc).

Extended (3+ Weeks)

• Trek deeper in Ha Giang.
• Add Phong Nha cave expeditions.
• Relax longer on southern beaches.

Cost & Crowd

As October progresses, international visitors arrive in large numbers, taking advantage of the increasingly sunny weather. However, October and November are historically among the cheapest months to fly to Vietnam. Conversely, October is the priciest month for hotels in Hanoi.

While visitors are returning to the South Vietnam beaches, the crowds have not yet reached their peak, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Travel Tips for October in Vietnam

• Book Ha Giang trips early — October is peak flower season.
• Keep plans flexible in Central Vietnam due to rain and possible flooding.
• In the south, October is the start of high season — book flights and hotels early for Phu Quoc.
• Festivals add cultural richness — check dates for Mid-Autumn and Lantern Festival.

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Related Guides (Internal Links)

• Hanoi in October
• Sapa in October
• Ha Giang in October
• Ha Long Bay in October
• Ninh Binh in October
• Hoi An in October
• Da Nang in October
• Hue in October
• Quang Binh in October
• Full Vietnam Travel Guide