What to know before you go to Vietnam in October

Traveloka Team

25 Aug 2025 - 3 min read

October is a magical time to explore the lantern-lit cities of Vietnam. As the monsoon rains start to fade in the northern parts of Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay, and the coastlines begin to cool in the South, October is an excellent time to visit and explore Vietnam. Whether you’re wandering through golden rice terraces or cruising the calm waters of Ha Long Bay, this is a month filled with adventure and endless possibilities. Plus, festivities like the Mid-Autumn Festival at the beginning of the month and rice harvest season in full swing, the vibes are immaculate.

Is October a good time to visit Vietnam?

October is an excellent time to visit the northern and southern parts of Vietnam. In both areas, you’ll see the wet season rain start to slow down in October, meaning you’ll be greeted with lush, thriving landscapes (thanks to the months of rainfall beforehand). Plus, as October comes just after the busy summer holiday season, you’ll see fewer crowds, making it the sweet spot for travellers who prefer a more relaxed trip.

However, if you’re heading to central Vietnam, expect rainfall to be relatively consistent in October. The chances of typhoons and surface floods occurring in central Vietnam during October are also pretty high, especially along the coast.

Is October a cheap or expensive time to visit Vietnam?

Generally, October is considered a more affordable time to visit Vietnam, especially when compared to peak travel periods in December and January. October falls in the shoulder season, which means you can expect lower prices for hotels, flights, and tours. However, if you’re visiting central Vietnam, including places like Hoi An or Da Nang, weather disruptions may end up making your trip more expensive (due to the risk of rescheduling or cancellations).

Weather in Vietnam in October

The weather in Vietnam varies, depending on which part of the country you’re visiting. As mentioned, October is a great time to visit the northern and southern parts of Vietnam as the weather conditions are pleasant. In northern Vietnam (like Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay), temperatures sit around 20-28°C, with clear skies, low humidity, and overall a cooler climate. It’s a bit hotter and more humid in southern Vietnam, with temperatures sitting around 24-32°C. You might also see a few short showers in the afternoon, still.

Where to go in Vietnam in October

Sticking to the northern and southern parts of Vietnam, below are the best places to hit up on your next trip:

Sapa: Immaculate weather with picture-perfect rice fields as harvest season peaks.

Hanoi: Warm and dry weather graces Hanoi in October. As autumnal hues line the bustling streets, it’s the best time to explore markets, temples, and lakes.

Ha Long Bay: The calm waters in October make it the perfect time for a cruise down Ha Long Bay.

Ninh Binh: The mild and dry weather in Ninh Binh calls for days spent wandering outdoors. Whether that’s visiting ancient temples or going on a scenic bike ride along rice fields, October is one of the best times to visit Ninh Binh.

Ho Chi Minh City: While a little humid with a few showers, you can explore the bustling Ho Chi Minh City with fewer crowds. Think authentic bánh mì and phở from the markets, days spent learning about Vietnam’s rich history and culture at the War Remnants Museum and a buzzing nightlife that’s perfect for night owls. It doesn’t get better than this.

Festivals and events in Vietnam in October

Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu): Depending on the lunar calendar, Mid-Autumn Festival may fall in early October. The mood is high throughout Vietnam, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Expect lantern parades, lion dances, mooncakes, and cultural performances.

Hoi An Lantern Festival: On the 14th of every month, Hoi An celebrates the festival of lights. Gather at An Hoi bridge and the banks of the Hoai river and watch as the city lights up.

Rice Harvest Festivals: Head to Sapa and Mu Cang Chai to celebrate the end of the rice growing season. Immerse yourself in local traditions, cultural performances, and delicious food against a backdrop of terraced fields.

Halloween Events: A mix of local culture and Western influence, major cities in Vietnam celebrate Halloween with costume parties, haunted houses and spooky decorations.

Best things to do in Vietnam in October

If you want consistent sunny beach days, October is probably not the best time to visit Vietnam. Whether it's the rainy season easing in the south, cool and dry weather in the north, or the wet season with typhoons and heavy rain in central Vietnam, it calls for a mix of outdoor adventure and indoor experiences.

Below are some of the best things to do in October in Vietnam:

Bask In Autumnal Hues In Northern Vietnam: Crisp air and orange-tinged foliage. Take the chance to wander through the golden rice terraces and tree-lined streets of Hanoi and Sapa.

Cruise The Calm Waters of Ha Long Bay: Calm waters and clear skies. The perfect combination for a peaceful cruise along Vietnam’s most recognisable bay.

Discover Vietnam’s Rich History: Wander through ancient temples, war museums, and more in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Taste Delicious Street Food: Mouthwatering delights with every step? Yes, please. Eat your heart out at Old Quarter, Dong Ba Markets, Ben Thanh Markets, and more.

Enjoy Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations: Also known in Vietnam as the nation’s beloved children’s festival, filled with glowing lanterns, traditional lion dances, and delicious mooncakes.