Hanoi in January: Weather, Festivals & Best Things to Do

1. Introduction

Hanoi in January greets visitors with cool breezes, misty mornings, and a festive atmosphere leading up to the Lunar New Year (Tet). While it’s one of the coldest months in northern Vietnam, the city’s cultural life is vibrant, with markets, traditional performances, and cozy cafés perfect for warming up.

2. Weather in Hanoi in January

• Average daytime temperature: 15–20°C (59–68°F)
• Night temperature: 10–14°C (50–57°F)
• Rainfall: ~20–30 mm across 8–10 days (mostly light drizzle)
• Humidity: 75–80%

Weather verdict: January is dry compared to summer, but cloudy skies and mist are common. Pack warm layers, as evenings can feel chilly, especially with damp air.

3. Why Visit Hanoi in January

• Fewer international tourists compared to later in the year.
• Pre-Tet excitement: streets decorated, markets full of flowers and festive goods.
• Cool weather makes sightseeing and walking tours comfortable.
• Ideal base to explore nearby winter-friendly destinations like Ninh Binh or Ha Long Bay.

4. Best Things to Do in Hanoi in January

Seasonal Highlights

1. Tet Markets (before Lunar New Year) – Hang Ma Street, Quang Ba Flower Market, and Old Quarter fill with flowers, red decorations, and festive foods.
2. Temple Visits – Locals pray for luck at Tran Quoc Pagoda and Ngoc Son Temple.
3. Hoan Kiem Lake & Old Quarter – Beautifully decorated for Tet, great for evening strolls.

Year-Round Activities

• Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Complex.
• Visit the Temple of Literature.
• Enjoy Hanoi’s street food: Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Cuon.
• Discover cozy cafés with a cup of egg coffee.

Day Trips from Hanoi in January

• Ninh Binh – Cool, misty landscapes, boat rides in Trang An or Tam Coc.
• Ha Long Bay – Clear skies, fewer tourists on cruises.

5. Festivals & Events in January

• Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) – Usually falls in late January or early February. Expect markets, fireworks, and family gatherings. Note: some shops close for a few days.
• Traditional Spring Festivals – After Tet, nearby villages hold folk games, wrestling, and dragon dances.

6. Where to Stay in Hanoi in January

• Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole – Historic elegance in the French Quarter.
• Mid-range: La Siesta Premium Hang Be – Stylish rooms in the Old Quarter.
• Budget: Nexy Hostel – Cozy, social vibe, walking distance to Hoan Kiem Lake.

7. What to Eat in Hanoi in January

• Pho – Steaming hot bowls are perfect for cold mornings.
• Banh Chung (square sticky rice cake) – Seasonal Tet dish sold in markets.
• Hotpot (Lau) – Popular with locals in winter evenings.

8. Suggested Itinerary for January

3 Days in Hanoi

• Day 1: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, evening street food tour.
• Day 2: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, museums.
• Day 3: Tet markets, handicraft villages, evening water puppet show.

5–7 Days (Hanoi + Surroundings)

• 2–3 days in Hanoi
• 1–2 days in Ninh Binh
• 2 days in Ha Long Bay cruise

9. Travel Tips for January in Hanoi

• Bring warm layers and a light jacket — it’s damp and chilly, especially at night.
• Book transport early around Tet holiday, as domestic travel peaks.
• Some attractions and restaurants close for a few days during Tet — plan ahead.
• Enjoy seasonal foods like Banh Chung and Tet sweets.

10. Related Guides (Internal Links)

• Vietnam in January – Weather & Best Places to Visit
• Ha Giang Loop in January
• Sapa in January
• Ha Long Bay in January
• Ninh Binh in January
• Full Hanoi Travel Guide