1. Overview

March is widely regarded as one of the best months to visit Hoi An, offering consistently pleasant weather, vibrant cultural experiences, and highly favourable conditions for exploring both the Ancient Town and the surrounding countryside. As Central Vietnam moves deeper into the dry season, Hoi An enjoys abundant sunshine, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall, creating comfortable conditions for long walks, cycling trips, and beach outings. The city retains a relaxed atmosphere compared to peak tourism months, yet all restaurants, markets, cafés, and shops operate normally, providing travellers with a full range of cultural and culinary experiences. March is also an excellent month for travellers planning multi-destination itineraries through Central Vietnam, as neighbouring cities experience similar climates; for context, conditions in Da Nang in February or Hue in February provide a useful comparison. With its enjoyable weather, scenic landscapes, and festive evening ambience, Hoi An in March offers a balanced and highly rewarding travel experience.

2. Weather in Hoi An in March

March marks one of the most stable weather periods of the year in Hoi An. Temperatures usually range between 21°C in the early morning and 30°C during the afternoon, making it comfortably warm without the intense heat of upcoming summer months. Rainfall remains low, and humidity is moderate, ideal for travellers who plan significant time outdoors. The coastal areas and beaches such as An Bang begin transitioning into excellent swimming conditions during March, as water temperatures rise and seas become calmer. These favourable weather patterns extend across Central Vietnam, aligning closely with conditions in destinations such as Da Nang in February and Hue in February earlier in the season. Evenings remain mild and breezy, contributing to Hoi An’s signature lantern-lit atmosphere along the Thu Bon River. Overall, March weather supports a wide range of activities, from sightseeing and food tours to boat rides and countryside excursions.

3. Best Things to Do in Hoi An in March

With consistently favourable weather and vibrant cultural scenery, March offers excellent opportunities to explore the full spectrum of Hoi An’s attractions. Strolling through the Ancient Town remains one of the highlights, as architectural landmarks, yellow-painted shophouses, and colourful lanterns become even more striking under clear March skies. Outdoor activities such as cycling to Tra Que Vegetable Village or Cam Thanh Coconut Village are enjoyable thanks to comfortable temperatures and minimal rain. Beachgoers will find An Bang Beach particularly appealing during March, with pleasant waters and clean sands ideal for relaxation or casual dining at oceanfront restaurants. March is also an excellent time for photography, especially during golden-hour boat rides on the Thu Bon River or lantern-lit evenings in the Ancient Town. Those combining Hoi An with nearby destinations may find planning easier by referencing regional conditions, such as those in Da Nang in February or Hue in February, which share similar seasonal advantages.

4. Events & Festivals in March

Although March does not typically coincide with major national holidays, Hoi An maintains a lively cultural atmosphere supported by its regular events and community activities. The monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival remains one of the city’s most iconic celebrations, occurring on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. During this festival, electric lights in the Ancient Town are dimmed, and the streets and riverbanks glow with hundreds of colourful lanterns, accompanied by traditional performances, folk games, and spiritual rituals. The mild March weather makes this event especially enjoyable for visitors. Smaller cultural programs, craft workshops, and music performances take place throughout the month across the Ancient Town. For travellers exploring Vietnam more broadly during this season, insights found in Vietnam in February remain relevant for understanding the shift from winter to spring festivals nationwide.

5. Pros & Cons of Visiting Hoi An in March

The benefits of visiting Hoi An in March are significant. Weather conditions are among the best of the year, offering clear skies, warm but not overly hot temperatures, and very low rainfall. These conditions enable travellers to enjoy beaches, cycling routes, walking tours, and evening river activities with minimal disruption. The Ancient Town’s lantern-lit nights feel especially atmospheric in March, and the moderate tourism levels allow for relaxed exploration without overwhelming crowds. However, a few considerations apply. Although March is not as crowded as peak months like June or July, visitor numbers do increase compared to earlier winter months, so booking accommodation in advance is recommended. Afternoon sun can be strong, requiring sun protection for outdoor activities. Some restaurants and beaches may begin raising seasonal prices as demand increases approaching summer. Despite these minor drawbacks, March offers one of the best overall travel experiences in Hoi An.

6. Travel Tips for Hoi An in March

Travellers can make the most of March conditions by planning activities around the warmest part of the day and bringing appropriate clothing. Morning and late afternoon are ideal times for cycling, outdoor photography, and exploring the countryside, while midday heat is more suitable for café breaks or indoor visits to museums and artisan workshops. Comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the Ancient Town’s cobblestone streets. Travellers pairing Hoi An with destinations such as Da Nang in February or Hue in February can expect similarly favourable conditions, enabling efficient multi-city itineraries. For first-time visitors to Vietnam, general preparation guidance in Essential Tips for First-Time Travellers to Vietnam can help ensure smoother planning.

7. What to Pack for Hoi An in March

Packing for Hoi An in March should prioritise comfort, breathability, and sun protection. Lightweight clothing such as cotton and linen is recommended for daytime temperatures, while a light jacket or shawl may be useful for breezy evenings or air-conditioned indoor venues. Sun essentials—including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—are necessary for cycling trips, beach visits, and river excursions. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial for exploring the Ancient Town, and sandals may be appropriate for beach areas. A compact daypack is helpful for carrying water, cameras, and small personal items. Travellers visiting temples or heritage buildings should include modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. For broader packing guidance applicable to multiple destinations within Vietnam, Essential Tips for First-Time Travellers to Vietnam provides additional useful recommendations.

Related Guides (Internal Links)

Hoi An in January
Hoi An in February
Hoi An in August
Hoi An in September
Hoi An in October
Hoi An in November
Hoi An in December
Da Nang in February
Hue in February
Essential Tips for First-Time Travellers to Vietnam