0

Traveloka Team

21 May 2024 - 5 min read

A Guide to the Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh should be on your bucket list for your next vacation. This city is a must-visit for travellers seeking a dynamic blend of history, culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. In Ho Chi Minh, you will find cultural landmarks, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the War Remnants Museum, known as the remnants of French colonial influence. You can also visit the Reunification Palace, a symbol of the country's reunification

If you’ve finished exploring, you can wander through bustling markets overflowing with local crafts and vibrant fabrics. For foodies, Vietnamese cuisine is a star attraction in Ho Chi Minh City. Savour the fresh and flavorful street food scene, with dishes like pho (noodle soup), bánh mì (baguettes), and bánh xèo (crispy rice pancakes). If you prefer a fine dining experience, the city offers several sophisticated restaurants showcasing Vietnamese and international flavours.

This city is also rich in vibrant festivals that you can’t miss. There are festival scenes throughout the year that attract travellers worldwide. Ho Chi Minh City will leave you with lasting memories. For more information about the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, take a look at this complete guide by Traveloka!

Best Seasons to Visit Ho Chi Minh

To get the full experience, make sure you know the city's weather. It is the ultimate for travellers to plan a trip to Ho Chi Minh. In general, Vietnam has different seasons depending on the region. However, the weather in Ho Chi Minh is considerably comfortable for travellers on vacation.

Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City

Scoot

Start from US$ 72.69

Singapore (SIN) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

Fri, 21 Jun 2024

Malaysia Airlines

Start from US$ 91.26

Singapore (SIN) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

Sat, 22 Jun 2024

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Start from US$ 92.78

Singapore (SIN) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

Tue, 9 Jul 2024

Dry Season

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. This period stretches from December to April and offers mostly sunny skies with comfortable temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F). There is minimal rainfall during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. You can explore the city's temples, pagodas, and museums without worrying about getting caught in a downpour.

Another advantage of the dry season is that it coincides with several festivals and cultural events. The Vietnamese Lunar New Year called Tet typically falls in late January or early February. This Lunar New Year celebration is a great way to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand. There are also flower festivals and boat races held during the dry season, adding to the festive atmosphere.

However, there are some notes about visiting Ho Chi Minh during the dry season. This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodation. The hot weather can also be uncomfortable for some visitors, especially during the midday sun.

Wet Season

The wet season in Ho Chi Minh City lasts from May to November. While there is a higher chance of rain showers during this time, they typically come in short bursts and don't usually last all day. The temperatures are still warm, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with high humidity levels.

If you're on a tight budget, the wet season can be a good time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. You'll find lower prices on flights and hotels compared to the dry season. The crowds are also smaller, so you'll have a more relaxed and intimate experience.

However, the frequent rain showers can disrupt outdoor activities and the high humidity can make sightseeing uncomfortable for some people. The worst thing is that some outdoor activities and attractions may be closed or have limited hours during the wet season.

Best Months to Visit Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh welcomes visitors year-round. However, there are ideal months to visit Ho Chi Minh for maximum experience. This is due to some reasons such as flight tickets, festivals, seasons, and other things to consider. Here is a breakdown to help you pick the perfect travel time.

December to March

If you are planning to visit Ho Chi Minh, it is highly recommended to visit the city from December to March. It is when the weather is the most pleasant. As explained before, the dry season in these months boasts the best weather for exploration. The comfortable temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities. You can explore the city for 24 hours without having to worry about the rain as there is minimal rainfall during this period. Travelling during these months offers comfortable travel opportunities to explore various destinations. The peak of the dry season happens in April. Meanwhile, December will feel cooler than other months.

For adventure seekers, you should take a motorbike tour through the city's vibrant streets or the Cu Chi Tunnels. You can’t miss shopping at high-end shopping malls and discovering hidden treasures in local shops. The city's nightlife is also unparalleled, with rooftop bars, live music venues, and pulsating nightclubs to keep you entertained throughout the night.

Please note that travelling to Ho Chi Minh during this period is potentially much more crowded than in other periods. There will be larger crowds and pricier accommodations, especially due to popular festivals.

However, if you are fine with cold weather, you can consider visiting Ho Chi Minh between December and February. During this period, you might experience cooler weather. The days in these months will give you a blend of spring and autumn vibe. On the other hand, March and April can offer striking hot weather. Thus, make sure to avoid outdoor activities to keep you away from heatstroke.

April to November

Vietnam is known as a budget-friendly destination. If you want even lower expenses when visiting Ho Chi Minh, you can plan your trip between April to November. You might get cheaper flight tickets, affordable accommodation, and even less crowded destinations.

Travelling to Ho Chi Minh during this period means you will experience the wet season. People say it is not the best choice for a trip to Ho Chi Minh City. It will be the rainy weather that makes the city experience a decline in the number of tourists. However, you will have a better time to explore the city if you are into less crowded destinations.

Festivals in Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City is rich in cultural heritage and traditions. This includes vibrant festivals that attract local and worldwide travellers. For an unforgettable experience, here is a complete list of popular festivals in Ho Chi Minh City that Traveloka has compiled:

1. Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

This is the biggest and most important Vietnamese celebration. Tet usually occurs in late January or early February. The city transforms into a sea of red and gold decorations, decorated with flower markets and lively street performances. Temples come alive with prayer ceremonies, families gather for reunions, and lucky money in red envelopes for children. It's a fantastic time to experience Vietnamese culture and traditions at their core.

2. Nguyen Hue Flower Street Festival

Nguyen Hue Flower Street Festival is held annually during Tet. This festival turns Nguyen Hue Street into a dazzling display of flowers and cultural exhibits. Giant flower sculptures depicting zodiac animals, mythical creatures, and Vietnamese landmarks take centre stage, offering stunning photo opportunities. You will also witness live music, traditional performances, and street vendors add to the festive atmosphere. Nguyen Hue Flower Street Festival is usually held in late January or early February just like the Tet festival.

3. Tết Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival)

This vibrant festival annually falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. It usually occurs in September or October. The streets come alive with colourful lanterns of all shapes and sizes, representing good luck and family unity. Children hold lantern parades, play traditional games, and enjoy mooncakes.

Typhoon Season in Vietnam

Beware of typhoon season in Vietnam. The country’s location in Southeast Asia makes it vulnerable to typhoons and tropical cyclones. Vietnam experiences an average of four to six typhoons annually. The typhoon season usually runs from June to November. The most frequent and severe typhoons typically occur between August and October.

Therefore, travellers are advised to keep an eye on weather forecasts and typhoon warnings. If a typhoon warning is issued, heed the instructions of local authorities. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations or delays due to typhoons. Being aware of the seasonality, potential risks, and safety measures allows you to make better decisions and plan accordingly.

So, what are you waiting for? Secure your Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City flight ticket and hotel to Ho Chi Minh on Traveloka and get the best experience with our great deals! Make sure to explore the Traveloka application or website for a smooth trip. Download Traveloka App now and realise your dream adventure in Ho Chi Minh City!

Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe