Vietnam Weather in May: Overview
May is a transition period in Vietnam: spring to summer in the north, dry season to wet season in the south, and warm weather to hot in the center.
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa): Influenced by the monsoon season, northern Vietnam becomes hot and humid in May, as summer begins. Rainfall is more frequent as well. Travelling in May, you'd better be flexible and carefully select your destinations. For example, outdoor activities are only suitable on a few sunny days.
- Central Vietnam (Danang, Hoi An, Nha Trang): You can enjoy the dry and sunny central coast of Vietnam in May. However, the Central Highlands are not suggested due to heavy downpours.
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc): Southern Vietnam becomes wet and humid from May. The increasing rainfall cools down the temperature in the south a little bit. A flexible travel plan is less affected by the typically afternoon downpours. Check the daily weather forecast, do outdoor activities in the morning, and bring rain gear just in case.
Suggested to read: How to Plan an Awesome Trip to Vietnam (Insider's Tips)
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Bangkok and Chiang Mai
In Bangkok, our guide Ann and driver "Mr. Ot" (I don't know how to spell his name) were very friendly and professional. You simply can't underestimate the value of having an English speaking guide to show you around, and a driver with a comfortable, sizeable, air-conditioned van take you from place to place. Ann taught us so much about Thailand's history, food, and religion. Mr. Ot always opened our door with a smile, and had cool towels and ice-cold bottled water for us. More
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Very great experience our driver D was…
Very great experience our driver D was never late and always had waters and a cold towel for us and our tour guide Som was very informative and had amazing English I recommend them both highly for anyone else traveling More
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Average Temperatures of the Most Popular Tourist Areas in May
| Vietnam Area | Min. Temp | Max. Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | 25°C/77°F | 35°C/94°F |
| Sapa | 19°C/66°F | 30°C/86°F |
| Halong | 25°C/77°F | 30°C/86°F |
| Hoi An | 25°C/77°F | 31°C/88°F |
| Danang | 25°C/77°F | 32°C/89°F |
| Nha Trang | 26°C/79°F | 32°C/89°F |
| Da Lat | 17°C/63°F | 26°C/79°F |
| Ho Chi Minh City | 27°C/81°F | 35°C/94°F |
| Phu Quoc | 29°C/84°F | 31°C/88°F |
Average Rainfall of the Most Popular Tourist Areas in May
| Vietnam Area | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | 133 | 7 |
| Sapa | 206 | 19 |
| Halong | 156 | 16 |
| Hoi An | 86 | 6 |
| Danang | 63 | 3 |
| Nha Trang | 72 | 8 |
| Da Lat | 387 | 28 |
| Ho Chi Minh City | 157 | 12 |
| Phu Quoc | 157 | 22 |
The 6 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in May
Generally speaking, you can visit most of Vietnam in May without too much rainy disruption, especially before mid-May. Sunny days are guaranteed in central coastal cities. Afternoon showers are less disruptive in northern and southern areas in early/mid-May.
Here are the recommended cities:
- Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa
- Central Vietnam: Hoi An, Nha Trang
- Southern Vietnam: Mekong Delta
1. Hanoi
Hanoi is warm and experiences moderate afternoon rainfall in May. The blooming Phoenix flowers signal the beginning of summer in Hanoi. These striking red flowers brighten the city.
Street food is the top highlight of Hanoi. Our foodie tour can take you to taste the most authentic food in open-air markets. The Old Quarter is an ideal place to go.
Randomly select a vendor, order a bowl of pho (rice noodles with chicken or beef) or bun ca (fish noodle soup) and then have it sitting on a plastic stool like the locals.
On May 19, some ceremonial activities will be held to celebrate President Ho Chi Minh's birthday at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
2. Halong Bay
Visiting Halong Bay is more price-wise in May — the low season. You can enjoy a more peaceful karst seascape at a better price. Even on rainy days, dreamy Halong Bay won't lose its charm.
The sea temperature reaches 27°C (81°F), which is perfect for water activities, like swimming and kayaking. You can also take a journey into the local floating lifestyle as you float past its floating villages.
Our selected cruises will take you to explore a remoter area and leave you more privacy on a smaller but more exquisite boat.
3. Sapa
Rainfall is increasing in May, so outdoor adventure is not the top reason for visiting Sapa. But you can still enjoy the watery rice terraces, charming minority culture, and rustic life.
In the planting season, it's wonderful to capture a picture of a working scene in the rice terraces. Instead of modern machines, they still use the century-old farming method: their hands and buffalo.
4. Hoi An
At its best time, Hoi An offers an abundance of photo opportunities and a richness of history for all travelers. Embracing traditional culture and foreign influence, Hoi An will satisfy your appetite for culture and architecture.
Whether traveling with your kids or your husband (wife), you can find interesting things to do, such as
- Stroll around the old town and admire the colorful lanterns and ancient architecture.
- Take a romantic bike ride through the rice paddies and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
- Take a cooking class together and learn how to make some of the signature dishes of Hoi An.
- Float down the river on a boat and watch the sunset.
Travel with us to enjoy an authentic and private tour.
5. Nha Trang
Nha Trang is popular for its white sandy beaches and clean seawater. Unlike Mui Ne and Phu Quoc, Nha Trang is a perfect combo of bustling city life and relaxing beach atmosphere.
Cycle along the coastal road, hike to the Ba Ho Waterfalls or hop on a cruise for a 4-island tour. If you just want a laid-back day, book a beach hotel, enjoy the sunsets/sunrises from your balcony or lie idly on a beach and sunbathe.
6. The Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta sees the change from dry season to wet season in May. So, you're suggested to visit it in early/mid-May for less rainfall.
You can get a taste of its ancient riverside lifestyle. Take a boat trip, visit a floating market (Cai Rang or Cai Bei), and pick up seasonal fruits in a local fruit garden. As a "rice bowl of Vietnam", fresh fruits and vegetables are bonuses for foodies. You can try plenty of tasty food and drinks here.
Crowds and Costs in the Medium Range
May starts the low season for visits to northern Vietnam and southern Vietnam. You can avoid crowds and enjoy excellent travel deals.
However, things are different in central Vietnam: crowds and costs increase but not to their peak as yet.
In general, May is fine to travel throughout Vietnam with fewer crowds and favorable deals.
What to Wear in May
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Waterproof rain jacket or raincoat, umbrella, rubber boots, and light, quick-drying wear should be brought.
- Loose, breathable clothing that covers your knees and shoulders for cultural sensitivity and sun protection
- Swim shorts, bathing suits, and flip flops for a beach vacation
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Insect repellent if hiking activities are arranged
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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