Vietnam Weather in October: Still Rain? Where to Visit?

15-Day Vietnam Discovery Tour In-Depth Vietnam Discovery from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

The 6 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in October

October is the best time to explore the autumn landscapes of Northern Vietnam. The rice paddies are turning golden, shining under the clear skies. The autumn flowers, like daisies and sunflowers, are blooming as well.

In late October, you can also set your steps to the south, despite the high rainfall — it's still much better than central Vietnam!

Here are the recommended cities:

• Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay
• Southern Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc

Suggested read: How to Plan a Trip to Vietnam - 7 Easy Steps!

1. Hanoi

 October is a good month to visit Hanoi as it is the end of the rainy season and the weather becomes cooler and drier. The average temperature is around 25°C (77°F) with some sunny days. You can enjoy many activities in Hanoi such as:

• Exploring the Old Quarter with its narrow streets, shops, and cafes.
• Visiting historical and cultural sites such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and One Pillar Pagoda.
• Sampling delicious street food such as pho, bun cha, banh mi, and egg coffee.

Travel with one of our local guides to have a better insight into this city. 

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2. Halong Bay

Halong Bay offers breathtaking scenery with a clear sky and emerald waters. October is also only the beginning of its high season, thus you can go and enjoy this wonder with fewer crowds.

Hop on a luxury cruise, visit the special floating villages, and immerse yourself in this karst island paradise. An overnight cruise is a good way to enjoy peaceful seascapes with a sunset and sunrise. All will create a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 

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3. Sapa

Harvest in Sapa is in early October. If you'd like to see golden rice terraces or a rural working scene, just visit Sapa before mid-October.

With favorable sunny days, hiking is a must for nature lovers in October. Multi-day trekking could be arranged from moderate to challenging. You have the option to hike among the rice terraces or challenge yourself to climbing the highest peak, Fansipan Mountain.

Of course, the cable car is a good choice if you want a leisurely ascend Fansipan. No matter which way you choose, Sapa will never disappoint you.

In most travel reviews, the warmth of locals brightens Sapa trips. The hospitable locals make trips vibrant and unforgettable. A homestay can bring you close to them and their life. Contact us for a well-liked homestay.

4. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam's financial center. You can see the modern Vietnam in this metropolis.

For most history buffs, the Cu Chi tunnels are alluring as relics of the American War in Vietnam. It is said that you couldn't fully understand Vietnam's history without a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels. Or wander the Binh Tay Market and buy some souvenirs for your friends and family.

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5. The Mekong Delta

October usually avoids seasonal floods, as rainfall ebbs. The high level of water is still helpful, though, to explore the beauty of the Mekong Delta.

As a popular excursion from Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a boat to see the floating markets. It's interesting to see their unique boat-top displays of goods and how they buy and sell. If you like what you see, join the locals and buy something.

If time permits, stay overnight and see the bustling floating market in the morning.

6. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island will be drier from late October. You can enjoy less rain, blue skies, and mild temperatures. The sea becomes calmer and good for swimming, diving, or snorkeling.

On Phu Quoc Island, night squid fishing is a unique experience. When night falls, night fishing adventures begin. You could take a boat to the fishing area, learn the techniques from the crew, catch a squid, and taste it fresh onboard.

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Crowds and Costs Increase

October is a better time to travel to Vietnam in general. Traveler numbers increase everywhere except in central Vietnam, where the rains hit a torrential peak.

In northern Vietnam, autumn scenery attracts more visitors. During this short high season, costs will increase noticeably, and you are suggested to book hotels at least two weeks before arrival.

Visitor numbers also increase in southern Vietnam, but it is not crowded. And the costs are still low.

What to Wear in October

• Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Waterproof rain jacket or raincoat, umbrella, rubber boots
• Loose, breathable clothing that covers your knees and shoulders for cultural sensitivity and sun protection
• Light, quick-drying wear for humid days
• Layers of clothing, maybe a hoodie, for cooler evenings in Northern Vietnam
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Insect repellent if hiking activities are arranged.