July marks the peak of Vietnam's summer monsoon, with northern and southern regions experiencing their highest rainfall of the year (200-300mm). Central Vietnam, however, remains in its dry season, averaging less than 60mm of rain — ideal for beachgoers.
Temperatures nationwide exceed 32°C (90°F), with northern plains like Hanoi frequently surpassing 40°C (104°F).
So, is July a good time to go to Vietnam? If you're looking for beaches and sunshine, July is perfect — head to Central Vietnam. If you're dreaming of cruising Halong Bay or trekking Sapa in the north, it might not be the ideal month unless you're flexible with the weather. If you plan to visit the South, book early, start your days early, and be ready for afternoon rain.
Hanoi & Northern Vietnam: Hot Days, Afternoon Rains, and Lush Scenery
- Best Destinations: Hanoi, Ninh Binh
- Challenging Areas: Halong Bay (possible typhoons), Sapa (fog and slippery trails)
July in Northern Vietnam is one of the hottest and wettest months, with temperatures soaring past 33°C (91°F) in Hanoi and Ninh Binh. Some days can even hit 40°C (104°F). Up in the mountains, places like Sapa are much cooler, hovering around 24-25°C (75-77°F), though rain and mist can limit visibility.
Best Things to Do in Northern Vietnam in July
In Hanoi, take an early morning walk through the Old Quarter and grab pho as locals do, and escape the heat in the Temple of Literature with its shaded courtyards.
Ninh Binh shines in July with golden rice fields, blooming waterlilies, and stunning karst landscapes. If you're keen on the iconic Halong Bay cruise, schedule it in early July for less risk of storms and typhoons.
For a cooler escape, head to Sapa, where the misty mountains offer a refreshing break. With rainy days, focus on cultural experiences—visit Sapa Market and meet local artisans for a hands-on experience of traditional mountain life.

What to Watch Out For:
- Hanoi's streets can flood after heavy rain (over twice in July), so waterproof sandals are a good idea.
- Late July typhoons can impact Halong Bay cruises. If you want dramatic limestone landscapes, Ninh Binh is a safer bet.
- Trekking in Sapa can be tricky, with muddy trails and thick mist covering the mountain views.
Hoi An & Central Vietnam: The Best Place to Be in July
- Best Destinations: Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Hue
July is the perfect time to visit Central Vietnam, with long sunny days (over 8+ hours of sunshine daily), warm beaches, and little rain. It's hot but dry, with temperatures averaging 32-35°C (90-95°F)—perfect for a beach escape.
Best Things to Do in Central Vietnam in July
For outdoor lovers, explore hidden caves in Phong Nha, dive in Nha Trang (July is the best time), or ride through the scenic Hai Van Pass.
Traveling with kids? Take the world's longest ocean-crossing cable car to Vinpearl Land, join a lantern-making workshop, or cycle through Hoi An's rice fields and snap fun photos at Da Lat's Crazy House.
For cultural experiences, don't miss My Son Sanctuary. Morning visits are best to escape the heat.
What to Watch Out For:
- Avoid sightseeing in the midday heat. Mornings and late afternoons are much more comfortable.
- Hoi An gets very crowded in the evening. Arriving in the late afternoon allows you to experience its charm without the rush.
Ho Chi Minh & Southern Vietnam: Tropical Rains
- Best Destinations: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta
- Challenging Areas: Phu Quoc (heavy rain and rough seas)
In Southern Vietnam, July brings afternoon thunderstorms, but they rarely last more than one to two hours. The rest of the day is often warm and sunny, with temperatures around 31–33°C (88–91°F). Despite the rainy season, Southern Vietnam promises vibrant mornings, rich cultural experiences, and a more relaxed vibe with fewer tourists than the dry season (November to April).
Best Things to Do in Southern Vietnam in July
In Ho Chi Minh City, start your day with a morning Vespa tour, exploring local markets and savoring an authentic Vietnamese breakfast. For history buffs, the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Long Tan Cross, and Nui Dat are best explored in the morning before the afternoon rains as well.
For a deeper experience, spend a night on a private sampan in the Mekong Delta. Wake up early for a sunrise boat ride through the floating markets. You could see vendors paddling from boat to boat, selling fresh coconuts, hot noodle soup, and ripe tropical fruits.
What to Watch Out For:
- Phu Quoc's west coast faces rough seas in July due to southwest monsoons, but the east coast's Sao Beach remains swimmable. Morning snorkeling trips are feasible (rainfall peaks after 2 PM), and lower tourist numbers mean discounted resorts.
- Afternoon showers in Ho Chi Minh City are sudden but short, so carrying a small umbrella or rain jacket is a good idea.
Crowds & Travel Costs in July
July is peak travel season with both local and international students on summer break, so expect beaches to be packed and hotels to fill up fast, especially in Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang.
Flights and rooms get pricey, so booking a month or two ahead saves the hassle. Popular sights can be crowded, but if you head out early or wait until late afternoons, you'll dodge the worst of it.
What to Wear in July in Vietnam
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- When it rains: waterproof rain jacket, umbrella, rubber boots
- Loose, breathable clothing that covers your knees and shoulders for cultural sensitivity and sun protection
- Light, quick-drying clothes for humid days
- Swim shorts, bathing suit, and flip flops for a beach vacation
- Insect repellent, as mosquitoes are at their peak in the rainy summer.
FAQs about Visiting Vietnam in July
1. Is July a good time to visit Vietnam?
It depends on where you go. Central Vietnam is awesome in July—think sunny beaches and barely any rain. Northern and Southern Vietnam? Hot with short, intense showers, but with a flexible itinerary, you can easily make the most of the dry periods.
2. Is it too hot in Vietnam in July?
Temperatures across Vietnam often exceed 32°C (90°F), with the northern plains, like Hanoi, occasionally reaching 40°C (104°F). Central beaches like Hoi An and Da Nang stay around 32–35°C (90–95°F), which feels way better with the ocean breeze.
3. Will it rain all day in Vietnam in July?
Nope. Rain usually shows up in short bursts, mostly in the afternoon. Mornings are your best friend—great for sightseeing or hitting the beach before the showers roll in.
4. Are beaches in Vietnam good in July?
Totally—if you’re heading to Central Vietnam. Hoi An, Da Nang, and Nha Trang have great beach weather with tons of sunshine. Phu Quoc? Not so much—it gets pretty rainy there.
5. How crowded is Vietnam in July?
It’s busy, no sugarcoating it. Schools are out, so expect lots of local families at beaches and popular sights. Book hotels and flights early, and hit tourist spots early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Get inspiration from more travel guides:
Average Temperatures and Rainfall in Popular Areas (July)
City | Temperature (Min/Max) | Rainfall (mm/in) | Rainy Days |
---|---|---|---|
Hanoi | 26°C/79°F to 33°C/92°F | 210 mm / 8.27 in | 16 |
Sapa | 18°C/64°F to 24°C/75°F | 220 mm / 8.66 in | 18 |
Halong | 25°C/77°F to 31°C/88°F | 238 mm / 9.37 in | 19 |
Hoi An | 26°C/79°F to 35°C/95°F | 58 mm / 2.28 in | 7 |
Danang | 26°C/79°F to 34°C/93°F | 59 mm / 2.32 in | 7 |
Nha Trang | 25°C/77°F to 32°C/90°F | 47 mm / 1.85 in | 8 |
Da Lat | 18°C/65°F to 24°C/75°F | 72mm / 2.83 in | 10 |
Ho Chi Minh City | 25°C/77°F to 33°C/92°F | 159 mm / 6.26 in | 17 |
Phu Quoc | 24°C/75°F to 30°C/86°F | 317 mm / 12.48 in | 21 |
Can Tho | 25°C/77°F to 32°C/90°F | 174 mm / 6.85 in | 18 |
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