Vietnam in February: Lunar New Year Guide & Seasonal Highlights (Ultimate Guide for 2026)

February is one of the most culturally vibrant and climatically pleasant months to visit Vietnam. As the country welcomes the Lunar New Year (Tet) — its most important holiday — travelers can enjoy mild weather, colorful festivals, and an unforgettable glimpse into Vietnamese traditions.

Here are 4 reasons why you should consider traveling to Vietnam in February

1. Pleasant Weather: February is one of the driest and coolest months in Vietnam, making it an ideal time to explore the country without having to deal with extreme heat or rain.
2. Lunar New Year Celebrations: February marks the Lunar New Year, which is the biggest holiday in Vietnam. You can experience the festive atmosphere and witness traditional customs and rituals.
3. Lower Tourist Crowds: Since February is considered off-season for tourism in Vietnam, you can avoid the peak tourist crowds and enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful vacation (except during Tet Holiday).

This guide covers everything you need to know about Vietnam in February, including weather insights, where to go, what to eat, and travel tips for a smooth journey.

1. Climate, Weather, and Temperature of Vietnam in February

Vietnam’s weather in February varies by region but remains relatively dry and comfortable nationwide — making it an ideal month for travel.

• North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh):
  • Cool and misty, especially in the early morning
  • Average temperatures: 15–22°C (59–72°F)
  • Occasional light drizzles
• Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang):
  • Dry and sunny, with ideal beach weather in Nha Trang
  • Temperatures: 21–28°C (70–82°F)
• South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, Con Dao):
  • Hot and dry, ideal for island trips and floating markets
  • Temperatures: 26–33°C (79–91°F)

2. Travel Costs and Tourist Flow in February

• Early February (Tet holiday): Prices for flights, trains, and hotels may increase due to high local demand. Advance booking is essential.
• Mid to late February: Costs normalize, and fewer local tourists mean easier bookings and quieter attractions.

???? Tip: Visit after the first week of Tet for the best value and fewer crowds.

3. Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in February

???? Hanoi

Enjoy the festive atmosphere with flower markets, Tet decorations, and cool spring weather. Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and traditional temples.

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???? Ninh Binh

Dry conditions make February perfect for boat rides through Trang An or hiking Mua Cave for panoramic views over the rice paddies.

????️ Sapa

Although chilly and misty, Sapa offers serene views of terraced rice fields and ethnic village experiences with fewer tourists.

????️ Hue & Hoi An

Mild, sunny weather makes February a great time to stroll the Imperial City in Hue and the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An Ancient Town.

???? Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta

Warm and dry, ideal for city sightseeing and day trips to Cu Chi Tunnels or floating markets in Can Tho.

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????️ Phu Quoc Island

A tropical paradise in February — expect sunshine, calm seas, and perfect beach conditions.

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???? Con Dao Island

More peaceful than Phu Quoc, Con Dao offers clear water, snorkeling, and a rich history at the Con Dao prison.

????️ Nha Trang

With average highs of 27°C, Nha Trang is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and island hopping.

4. Vietnam Festivals & Events in February 2026

???????? Tet – Vietnamese Lunar New Year (February 16–22, 2026)

Tet is Vietnam’s most important holiday, typically occurring between mid-January and late February, based on the lunar calendar (the exact dates shift each year). If you happen to be in Vietnam during this period, you’ll experience an electrifying festive atmosphere: streets decorated with red and gold, bustling flower markets, and the aroma of traditional New Year foods like bánh chưng and boiled chicken. It’s a time for family reunions, ancestor worship, and new beginnings.

???? Perfume Pagoda Festival (February 22 – May 16, 2026)

Held at the sacred Huong (Perfume) Pagoda in Hanoi’s outskirts, this is one of Vietnam’s most significant Buddhist pilgrimages. The festival features peaceful boat rides along a scenic river surrounded by limestone mountains, followed by a hike up hundreds of stone steps to reach ancient temples nestled in caves. Pilgrims come to pray for peace, health, and prosperity in the new year.

⛰️ Yen Tu Festival (February 26 – May 16, 2026)

Celebrated from the 10th day of the first lunar month, the Yen Tu Festival takes place on a sacred mountain in Quang Ninh Province. It opens with a grand ceremony including incense offerings, cultural performances, dragon dances, and traditional martial arts. Pilgrims climb the stone path to Dong Pagoda at the mountain peak to seek blessings and spiritual renewal. The festival continues for three months, attracting thousands of Buddhists and cultural travelers.

???? Lim Festival, Bac Ninh (February 28 – March 1, 2026)

Held on the 12th and 13th days of the first lunar month, the Lim Festival is renowned for its Quan Ho folk singing — a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. Located in Bac Ninh Province, this event brings together locals dressed in traditional costumes performing lyrical duets across pagoda courtyards, stages, and boats. The festival also includes folk games, weaving demos, and martial arts shows, offering a deep dive into northern Vietnamese culture.

✨ Other Fascinating Cultural Celebrations

• Muong Ethnic Rituals in Mai Chau and Moc Chau: These highland communities host spiritual ceremonies and traditional music that reflect their deep connection with nature and ancestors.
• Fish-Praying Festival in Thai Duong Ha Village, Hue: A unique coastal tradition where fishermen pray for abundant catches and safe seas, involving parades, folk performances, and communal feasts.

5. What Are Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes?

???? Tet Traditional Foods

Tet brings out special dishes only available during the holiday:

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• Banh Chung (North) & Banh Tet (South): Sticky rice cakes filled with pork and mung bean, wrapped in banana leaves
• Boiled chicken with lime leaves
• Fried spring rolls served at family feasts

???? Iconic Street Food Year-Round

• Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup): Hanoi’s most famous breakfast
• Banh Mi: Vietnamese baguette sandwich with pickled vegetables and meats
• Banh Xeo: Crispy turmeric pancake with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts
• Com Tam (Broken Rice): A popular southern rice plate served with grilled pork, egg, and pickles

???? Tip: Street food vendors may close during Tet — try homestays or local restaurants for authentic holiday meals.

6. Recommended Vietnam Itineraries for February

???? Option 1: North to South (2 weeks)

• Hanoi → Ninh Binh → Hue → Hoi An → Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Phu Quoc

????️ Option 2: Nature & Culture (10 days)

• Hanoi → Sapa → Ninh Binh → Hue → Hoi An

????️ Option 3: Island Escape (1 week)

• Ho Chi Minh → Mekong Delta → Phu Quoc → Con Dao

Final Thoughts

Vietnam in February is one of the best times to explore the country — with mild weather, vibrant festivals, and endless travel possibilities. Whether you’re marveling at Tet celebrations in Hanoi or lounging on the beaches of Phu Quoc, February offers a balance of culture, comfort, and beauty that makes for an unforgettable trip.