Hanoi in November: Weather, Packing Tips & Festivals

Hanoi in November is one of the best times of the year to visit Vietnam’s capital. Autumn is in full swing, with cool breezes, golden leaves, and plenty of sunshine. The rainy season is over, making it perfect for exploring the Old Quarter, enjoying outdoor cafés, or taking day trips to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh. It’s also a month filled with national holidays and cultural events, giving visitors a vibrant yet relaxed experience.

1. Weather in Hanoi in November

• Average daytime temperature: 18–26°C (64–79°F)
• Night temperature: 14–18°C (57–64°F)
• Rainfall: ~40–60 mm across 6–8 days (light showers possible)
• Humidity: 70–75%

Weather verdict: November is cool, dry, and comfortable. Skies are clear, humidity is low, and it’s the ideal month for walking tours and photography. This is why many consider November the best month to visit Hanoi.

2. What to Pack for Hanoi in November

• Light layers: T-shirts or shirts for the day, light sweater or jacket for evenings.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Perfect for strolling the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Rain protection: A small umbrella or light raincoat for unexpected drizzles.
• Camera/phone: November has stunning sunsets and golden light — great for photography.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring outdoors.

3. Why Visit Hanoi in November

• Ideal weather for walking tours and outdoor sightseeing.
• Fewer domestic tourists compared to summer.
• Easy to combine Hanoi with nearby destinations (Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Mai Chau).
• Vibrant festivals and national celebrations.

4. Holidays & Celebrations in November

• Vietnam Teachers’ Day (November 20th) – A nationwide celebration honoring teachers. Schools hold performances, and flower markets are lively.
• Hanoi International Film Festival (every two years, in November) – Screenings and cultural events across the city.
• Traditional Autumn Festivals – Many pagodas and villages around Hanoi hold harvest and ancestral worship ceremonies.
• Early Christmas vibes – By late November, malls and hotels begin to decorate for Christmas.

5. Best Things to Do in Hanoi in November

• Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake – Trees turn golden, evenings are cool.
• Visit the Old Quarter – Ideal for street food tours in mild weather.
• Temple of Literature – Particularly popular on Teachers’ Day (Nov 20th).
• Enjoy Hanoi cafés – Sit outside with egg coffee or green tea.
• Day trips – Clear skies make Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh especially beautiful in November.

6. Suggested Itinerary for November

3 Days in Hanoi

• Day 1: Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, water puppet show.
• Day 2: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, West Lake.
• Day 3: Day trip to Ninh Binh or Bat Trang pottery village.

5–7 Days (Extended Stay)

• Add a 2-day Ha Long Bay cruise.
• Visit Mai Chau for rice fields and traditional stilt houses.

7. Travel Tips for November in Hanoi

• Dress in layers — mornings/evenings are cooler than midday.
• Book hotels early if visiting around Vietnam Teachers’ Day.
• Take advantage of low humidity for photography.
• Join locals in autumn street cafés for the authentic Hanoi vibe.

8. Related Guides (Internal Links)

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