Vietnam's weather in January is generally mild/warm and dry. January is the heart of the dry season in Vietnam, and you can expect just 8–10 days with a little rain in January, but it is a bit rainier in central Vietnam, and cooler further north.
The pleasant climate makes January one of the best months to travel to Vietnam.
Vietnam Regional Weather in January
Vietnam is a long country and the weather in the north, south, and central regions are different.
In northern Vietnam, January is one of the driest months of the year, and northern Vietnam will remain quite cool with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F).
Sapa, up in the mountains is 7°C (12°F) colder on average. The north has the least rainfall in January and occasional misty fog. There is plenty of sunshine and clear sky, especially in coastal areas around Halong Bay.
It is not too hot nor not too cold in central Vietnam, but much warmer than in the North, especially in the second half of January and the temperature is around 23°C (73°F) on average. It is quite pleasant to visit some beach destinations in Central Vietnam during this month, such as Nha Trang.
The weather in southern Vietnam is very pleasant and dry with an average daily high of 30°C (86°F), but at night, the temperature may drop to 20°C (68°F). The Mekong Delta enjoys great conditions, with blue skies and little rain.
Suggested to read: How to Plan an Awesome Trip to Vietnam (Insider's Tips)
Average Temperatures in Vietnam in January
| Major City | Min. Temp. | Max. Temp. |
|---|---|---|
| Sapa | 4°C (39°F) | 16°C (60°F) |
| Hanoi | 14°C (57°F) | 21°C (70°F) |
| Halong Bay | 14°C (57°F) | 20°C (69°F) |
| Da Nang | 20°C (68°F) | 25°C (77°F) |
| Hoi An | 20°C (68°F) | 25°C (77°F) |
| Ho Chi Minh | 22°C (71°F) | 32°C (89°F) |
| Mekong Delta | 22°C (71°F) | 31°C (88°F) |
Average Rainfalls in Vietnam in January
| Major Cities | Rainfall (mm) | Rainfall (in) |
|---|---|---|
| Sa Pa | 9 | 0 |
| Hanoi | 13 | ½ |
| Halong Bay | 17 | ½ |
| Da Nang | 45 | 2 |
| Hoi An | 45 | 2 |
| Ho Chi Minh | 4 | 0 |
| Mekong Delta | 7 | 0 |
The Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in January
January is one of the best months to visit Vietnam. Beaches in central or south Vietnam always provide warm breezes and pleasant sunshine.
In northern Vietnam, the weather conditions are also quite good for travel, especially in Halong Bay, where there's almost no rain in January. Vietnamese New Year falls between late January and mid-February, and Vietnam is quite busy during this period.
1. Halong Bay
Halong Bay in January is really pleasant. You may experience some chilly days, but Halong Bay can become more beautiful and romantic than any other month when the bay is surrounded by fog on some days.
We recommend you take a one-night cruise, if you have more time, a two-night cruise will offer you a more relaxing journey.
If you are traveling for a big moment like an anniversary or birthday, we recommend you choose a smaller boat with one to five cabins (Regular cruise ships have 20 to 40 cabins). You will spend more quality time with your kid(s) or partner as the cruise takes you to a remoter area and keep you away from thousands of cruises.
Contact us to get our hand-picked cruises.
2. Hoi An
In January, the town experiences warm winter weather, which is quite comfortable.
If coming to Hoi An town during this month, you will find people are busy preparing things to welcome Vietnam New Year. Streets and lanes are decorated with lanterns — the traditional cultural symbol of this ancient town.
Just immerse yourself in the bustling and vibrant atmosphere or you can visit a workshop for a traditional Hoi An lantern-making class.
3. Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc is the largest island city in Vietnam, about 1 hour by flight from Ho Chi Minh city. It is also one of Vietnam's top tourist destinations in January. It is dry and warm in January, with a temperature around 25–28°C (77–84°F).
There are all kinds of things that can be done there: from enjoying Phu Quoc's beautiful beaches to renting a kayak to go to nearby Fingernail Island to the magic of nature at Phu Quoc National Park.
4. The Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a river delta in the south of Vietnam, around a 2–3-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City.
January is a great time to visit the area because it is cool and the water is at its most stable. This season is excellent for outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and experiencing the local culture.
Taking a boat to the floating markets, expect a cozy atmosphere with vendors selling fruit, vegetables, and gift items from stand-up rowboats.
A newly affordable luxury way to experience Mekong Delta's floating market is to take an overnight cruise (with only 2 cabins only for you and your partner or kids). In this way, you can save time on the road, spend more leisurely time on Mekong Melta and wake up on a floating market.
5. Nha Trang
Nha Trang, the most popular and well-known seaside resort town in Vietnam, is famous for its white sandy beaches and clean sea. January is the dry season, which is more favorable than other months for boat trips to the islands off Nha Trang.
You can have fun jumping off the boat and drinking wine in the water. It is also a good time for outdoor activities in Nha Trang, like biking or snorkeling.
6. Da Lat
Da Lat is located 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level in central Vietnam. Originally established during the French colonial era, it is well known for its old pine trees, planted alongside the classical beauty of the French-era buildings.
Marble Mountain there is a well-known pilgrimage site with beautiful peaks, vast networks of tunnels, gorgeous caves, and impressive temples making for a wonderful place to explore in January.
Da Lat Flower Festival is held in early January. The cherry blossoms in January should not be missed, as well as the colorful flowers that surround Xuan Huong Lake.
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What to Wear in January
The lowest temperature in January is about 20°C (68°F) in most of Vietnam. So, shorts, skirts, light trousers, T-shirts, and other light clothes are good for this month.
Bring a few pieces of warm clothing, such as a jacket or jeans, if you go to northern Vietnam, which can sometimes get below 14°C (57°F).
Crowding and Costs
The pleasant weather throughout the country with low rainfall and warm/cool temperatures draw many people to travel around Vietnam in January. It's the perfect time to enjoy magnificent scenery and also enjoy Vietnam New Year, which often comes in late January or early February.
January is considered one of the peak tourist seasons in Vietnam, and hotel and flight costs are much higher than in other months. So, book at least 3 months before to save more.
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.
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