Vietnam Weather in October: Best & Worst Places to Visit 2025

October in Vietnam? It’s mostly a yes — but with regional twists.

Rain says goodbye to the north, starts to ease in the south (down about 20%), but hits hard in the center — double September.

With an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), Vietnam may seem uniform at first glance, but the feel can vary wildly—from Hanoi’s cool fall breeze to Ho Chi Minh’s steamy afternoons.

Is Vietnam in October Right for You?

Not sure if it’s the right month for your dream trip? Let’s break it down based on what you love to do.

Which Part of Vietnam Is Best to Visit in October?

Quick answer? Go north, consider the south, and be cautious with the central coast.

Hanoi & Northern Vietnam in October: Best Place to Go

October is one of the best times to visit northern Vietnam. Clearer skies, cooler weather, and autumn colors are features of October. Outdoor activities can return to your bucket list.

For a scenic escape with light adventure, Ha Long Bay is at its best. With clear skies, the limestone peaks stand out in their full glory for better photo ops than in summer.

For mountain views and hiking, head to Sapa or Ha Giang. The dry trails make for ideal hiking conditions. Sapa's terraced fields shine post-harvest, while Ha Giang bursts with pink buckwheat flowers, perfect for panoramic road trips or motorbike loops.

For cultural depth and city charm, Hanoi is unbeatable this time of year. Autumn leaves, walkable weather, and cozy cafés make it feel romantic and relaxed. Don’t miss the Temple of Literature, Old Quarter food tours, and some lakeside people-watching.

Ho Chi Minh City & the South in October: Plan Around the Showers

October marks the tail end of the rainy season in southern Vietnam. While you can still expect about 16 to 17 rainy days, the good news is that most showers come as brief, intense downpours in the late afternoon.

How to make the most of your trip in the south?

Do your sightseeing early. Explore iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral or the Independence Palace before the rain sets in.

Use the rainy hours to unwind. Enjoy a massage or spa treatment, take a Vietnamese coffee workshop, or visit the War Remnants Museum.

After the rain? Go eat! Streets come alive with sizzling BBQ, bánh xèo, and seafood hotpots — the food doesn’t stop for a little rain.

Pro tip: Avoid traveling during evening rush hour — traffic + rain = long delays.

Da Nang & Central Vietnam in October: Rainiest Area 

Central Vietnam in October is a bit of a wild card. While you may get lucky with a few dry days, expect rain to be a frequent companion.

The coastal cities, like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue, can get over 400 mm (17 in) of rainfall, with some days bringing relentless rain, flooded streets, and sudden typhoon alerts. Big waves and strong winds make swimming a no-go.

The Central Highlands, like Da Lat, sees just 150 mm (6 in) of rainfall, making it a drier destination, though fog is common at the mountaintops.

What to Do in Central Vietnam If It Rains

Still want to visit Hoi An or Da Nang? Go for it — just be smart with your plans.

Take a lantern-making workshop or Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An — cozy, hands-on, and indoors.

Spend a rainy afternoon at a spa resort in Da Nang, or visit Ba Na Hills if there’s a clear break (cable cars + mountaintop views).

In Hue, explore the Royal Tombs and the Imperial City — many parts are covered and still atmospheric even in light rain.

Insider tips:

If you’re heading here, have flexible plans, and get travel insurance that covers weather-related delays.

And definitely skip the motorbike trips — roads can get muddy, and rainfall may limit visibility.

Crowds and Cost in October

October is a better time to travel to Vietnam in general. October sees a rise in traveler numbers, especially in the north, where fall colors attract local and international visitors. Expect higher prices there — book your stay at least 3 months ahead.

In the south, there are more travelers, but it’s still not crowded, and prices stay low.

Central Vietnam? The fewest tourists and lowest prices are due mostly to the weather.

What to Wear in October

Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket or umbrella for the occasional downpour.

In the north, bring layers to stay warm in the cooler mornings and evenings. For the central and southern regions, light, breathable clothes will keep you comfortable in the heat and humidity.

Any Festivals in October?

While October doesn’t have major national holidays, you might catch Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations if you visit early in the month (dates vary by lunar calendar).

Hanoi and Hoi An often host lantern displays, lion dances, and mooncake markets, adding a cultural touch to your Vietnam trip.

Looking for a Vietnam Itinerary That Fits October’s Weather?

Here are a few of our favorite tours that work especially well in October — with the right mix of good weather, cultural depth, and flexible pacing:

• 10-Day Best of Vietnam Tour: Perfect for first-timers! Explore Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. 
• 15-Day Vietnam Off-the-Beaten-Path Tour: For the adventurous traveler! Journey through the Ha Giang loop, cruise Ha Long Bay, and discover the charm of Hoi An. Enjoy clear skies and breathtaking views along the way.
• Looking for something shorter? Try our 5-Day Northern Vietnam with Sapa — Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay in one go.

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Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Vietnam

Learn about the weather in Vietnam for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.