Some like it hot, but many don’t! The autumnal months of October and November are the perfect time to visit Vietnam for those who can’t handle the heat.  Autumn is in full-swing and temperatures across the country become comfortably cooler.  Whilst much of the country is wet and stormy at this time of year, it is one of the best times to visit Northern Vietnam when clear skies and comfortable temperatures are blissfully common. Check out our recommendations for the best places in Vietnam to visit in October & November.

Hanoi

In October and November the summer-time heat, humidity and heavy showers have disappeared; cool dry days make this month one of the best times to explore Hanoi’s maze-like streets and colonial buildings.

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Sapa

Travel to Sapa in October  and November and you’ll be rewarded with the perfect temperature for trekking. The average temperature for this time of year is a very comfortable 17 °C during the day and a bit cooler at night. Whilst some rain is to be expected, heavy rain is not common (this comes in the summer months) and sunshine usually prevails. The result of the previous months’ heavy rainfall is incredibly verdant rice paddies, making it one of the best times of the year to photograph Sapa’s famous rice terraces.

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Halong Bay

No trip to Vietnam would be complete without a trip to magical Halong Bay and its hundreds of limestone islands. This tourist favourite is known for unpredictable weather and particularly at risk in the summer months when sudden storms lead to frequent cruise cancellations. Autumn (Oct & Nov), however is a different story and along with spring-time, offers some of the best chances of clear skies.

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Ha Giang

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Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang

Truly one of Vietnam’s best-kept-secrets, the terraced rice-fields of the mountainous region of Ha Giang come alive in October and November, when harvesting season is in full-swing. These months are the perfect time to take pictures of colourful hill-tribe farmers toiling in terraced rice-paddies. The weather is typically cool and dry this time of year, with plenty of sunshine.