10 best places to visit during Tet 2026 in Vietnam

Experience the Year of the Horse in a land where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Discover where to go, what to see, and how to embrace the magic of Tet 2026

As the Lunar New Year approaches, the atmosphere in Vietnam changes noticeably, almost palpably. The bustling energy of commerce subsides, giving way to the aroma of incense, the vibrant colors of peach blossoms, and a general sense of renewal. For tourists, traveling to Vietnam during the 2026 Lunar New Year, also known as Tet, is a rare opportunity: a chance to witness the country’s most profound cultural transformation. We’ll answer the popular question among every traveler planning their 2026 trip: Where should you go? From the tranquil, misty temples of Hanoi to the turquoise waters of Phu Quoc, discover with us top destinations for celebrating the Lunar New Year in Vietnam.

What to know about Tet 2026 in Vietnam

The Lunar New Year holiday offers a significant advantage for travelers. Falling in mid-February, this period coincides with one of the most pleasant weather of the year. In northern Vietnam, the biting cold of winter gives way to spring in Vietnam, with comfortable temperatures from 17°C to 22°C. Meanwhile, central and southern Vietnam enter the peak of the dry season, with blue skies and warm sunshine without the scorching heat of summer. This climatic balance allows for flexible travel plans, potentially spanning the entire country without weather disruptions.

Regarding services during Tet, the modern travel experience has evolved. Although government agencies, museums, and family-run shops may close during the main holidays (February 16-19, 2026), the tourism industry remains at full capacity. Hotels, resorts, and travel companies work tirelessly to accommodate the influx of domestic and international tourists. In fact, cities like Hoi An or coastal tourist centers like Nha Trang often become more vibrant, not quieter. The key to a smooth trip is about choosing destinations that thrive during these holidays.

Discover 10 things to know about Tet 2026 in Vietnam.

Hanoi – A capital transformed by silence and celebration

For those who wish to step directly into the heart of the festival, Northern and Central Vietnam offer an atmosphere that is both solemn and spectacular. These destinations are for travelers who want to see the rituals, smell the incense, and feel the pulse of history. There is no image more surreal than Hanoi on the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year. The usually chaotic traffic vanishes, leaving behind grand boulevards and ancient alleys that are remarkably peaceful. Visiting Hanoi during Tet 2026 allows you to see the capital as it was decades ago. The silence is profound, broken only by the sound of temple bells and the greetings of locals dressed in their finest Ao Dai.

Tet is a special occasion to see Vietnamese people in their traditional clothing.

Travelers should head to the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake on New Year’s Eve to witness the spectacular fireworks display. The following days are best spent joining the locals at spiritual landmarks like Ngoc Son Temple or the Temple of Literature. Here, you can partake in the tradition of asking for calligraphy master’s characters as a wish for wisdom and prosperity in the Year of the Horse. While many restaurants may close, the culinary scene adapts; you will find plenty of specialized eateries serving Banh Chung (sticky rice cakes) and traditional festive dishes. The weather in February will likely be cool with a chance of “spring rain”, a light mist that Hanoians believe brings luck and vitality to the budding trees.

Hoi An – The most photogenic Tet in Vietnam

If Hanoi is about solemnity, Hoi An is about color and light. Already famous for its lanterns, the ancient town elevates its charm to an ethereal level during the Lunar New Year. The entire town seems to glow, with every shop front and boat decked out in yellow apricot blossoms and red parallel sentences.

Hoi An is arguably the most tourist-friendly destination during Tet because the ancient town’s economy is intrinsically linked to visitors. Most restaurants and tailors reopen very quickly, usually on the second day of the New Year. The highlight for any traveler here is the evening experience on the Hoai River. During the holiday, the river glitters with thousands of floating paper lanterns released by locals and tourists alike to pray for peace. The culinary experience in Hoi An remains robust; you can still enjoy the famous Cao Lau noodles or White Rose dumplings without fear of closures. The mid-February weather here is delightful, often cool enough for a light jacket in the evening but sunny during the day.

Hoi An Old Town shimmers at night with lantern light.

Hue – The imperial nostalgia

For a deeply historical perspective, the former imperial capital of Hue offers a Tet experience rooted in royal protocol. The Complex of Hue Monuments, including the Imperial City and the royal tombs, often opens its doors freely to Vietnamese visitors during the first days of Tet, creating a vibrant, festive atmosphere full of traditional costumes. International visitors can witness the reenactment of royal ceremonies, traditional flag-raising rituals, and lion dances that are performed with a level of grandeur fitting for a king.

Hue is quieter than Hoi An or Da Nang, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a slower, more contemplative pace. The cuisine here is legendary, and Tet is the perfect time to sample jams and royal desserts that are often reserved for special occasions. However, you should note that Hue’s weather in February can be unpredictable, often carrying a mystical gloom and light rain, while atmospheric, requires appropriate clothing.

Phu Quoc Island – The premier sunshine destination

If your goal for the Lunar New Year 2026 is to escape the cold and crowds, Southern Vietnam is your sanctuary. These destinations are “Tet-proof,” meaning they operate almost entirely independently of the holiday closures, ensuring a seamless vacation. Phu Quoc stands as the undisputed champion of Tet travel for sun-seekers. By mid-February, the island is deep into its finest season, characterized by calm turquoise waters, cloudless skies, and low humidity. It is the perfect antidote to the winter blues.

Experience the festive atmosphere of Tet combined with a luxurious getaway in Phu Quoc.

Unlike the cities, Phu Quoc does not sleep during Tet. The island’s infrastructure, like luxury 5-star resorts in Bai Khem or the bustling night markets in Duong Dong, runs at full throttle. This is the ideal destination for families or travelers who want a guaranteed “open” status for all amenities. You can spend your days island-hopping through the An Thoi archipelago, snorkeling in crystal-clear water, or riding the world’s longest cable car to Hon Thom Nature Park. The festive spirit here is present but more relaxed; resorts often host gala dinners and lion dances by the pool, and the locals also celebrate in their own way. Be aware that this convenience comes with a price; Phu Quoc is one of the most expensive destinations during Tet, so early booking is not just recommended, it is essential.

Check-out our early offers for Phu Quoc tours.

Nha Trang – The more vibrant coastal hub

For those who want a blend of city energy and beach relaxation, Nha Trang and the nearby peninsula of Cam Ranh are excellent choices. February brings wonderful weather to this region, with the monsoon rains long gone and the sea returning to a gentle blue.

Nha Trang offers a distinct advantage for families that is entertainment. Attractions like VinWonders Nha Trang remain open throughout the holiday, providing endless amusement for children. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in the region’s famous mud baths and hot springs, which are particularly rejuvenating to start a new year in Vietnam. For a more secluded experience, head south to Cam Ranh, home to a stretch of luxury resorts that offer privacy and pristine sands. The dining scene in Nha Trang is vast, and while local street food stalls might take a break, the seafood restaurants along Tran Phu Street and international dining venues remain bustling.

Ninh Binh – The cinematic ancient land

Just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, Ninh Binh offers a dramatic landscape. For Tet 2026, it serves as the ultimate destination for those seeking a balance between majestic nature and spiritual reflection. In mid-February, the limestone karsts are often draped in an ethereal spring mist, creating a mystic scenery. The centerpiece is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, where you can glide along emerald waters in a small wooden boat, passing ancient temples and hidden caves untouched by time.

Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, becomes a major pilgrimage site during the New Year. Even for the non-religious, the sheer scale of its bronze Buddha statues and towering stupas is awe-inspiring. For active travelers, the 500-step climb to the summit of Mua Cave (Hang Mua) offers the most iconic panoramic view in the region, overlooking the Tam Coc valley as the rice fields begin their vivid green transformation.

The Tet is when Ninh Binh is immersed in the festive colors.

Mui Ne – A desert escape

A few hours east of Ho Chi Minh City lies Mui Ne, a unique microclimate famed for its massive sand dunes and kitesurfing culture. February is arguably the best month to visit Mui Ne, because the winds are perfect for water sports and the sun is intense enough for tanning.

Mui Ne is a favorite “escape route” for expats and travelers during Tet. The vibe here is laid-back and distinctly bohemian. You can start your New Year with a sunrise jeep tour to the White Sand Dunes, followed by a seafood feast at the fishing village. Because Mui Ne relies heavily on international tourism, the impact of Tet closures is minimal. It is an excellent choice for active travelers who want to combine relaxation with adventure sports.

Da Lat – The city of eternal spring

For the romantic souls and nature enthusiasts, the highlands of Vietnam offer a spectacular backdrop of flowers and mist during the Lunar New Year. While the famous cherry blossoms of Da Lat typically peak in January, visiting in mid-February 2026 offers a different floral spectacle. This is often the time when the purple flamboyant flowers begin to bloom, painting the city in a dreamy violet hue.

Da Lat during Tet is incredibly busy, primarily with domestic tourists escaping the heat of Saigon. However, this crowd brings a joyous energy to the city. The cool, pine-scented air is invigorating. Travelers can explore the colonial architecture, visit the flower gardens which are manicured to perfection for the holiday, or retreat to lakeside cafes. If you choose Da Lat, book your accommodation months in advance and be prepared for traffic in the city center. The trade-off is experiencing the “Spring City” in its truest form.

Sapa – The misty frontier

In the far north, Sapa offers a rugged, atmospheric Tet experience. By mid-February, the harsh freeze of winter usually softens. While the peach blossoms may be fading, the white plum blossoms often blanket the valleys, creating a stunning contrast against the dark mountains.

Sapa is fascinating during Tet because of its ethnic diversity. You are not just observing the Kinh majority’s Tet, but also the unique spring festivals of the Hmong, Red Dao, and Tay people. ethnic customs and clothings in Sapa involve colorful traditional dress, folk games, and music that you won’t find anywhere else. Taking the cable car to the summit of Fansipan, the Roof of Indochina, is a must-do activity. Standing above the clouds to welcome the New Year is a spiritual experience for many. However, travelers should be prepared for cold weather and potential fog, which is part of Sapa’s moody charm.

Ho Chi Minh City – The pulse of modern celebrations

If Hanoi is the guardian of ancient Tet traditions, Ho Chi Minh City, the dynamic southern metropolis, is the stage where the future of Vietnam’s celebrations unfolds. Traveling to “Saigon” during Lunar New Year 2026 is an experience of pure, unadulterated energy. Unlike the quiet reverence of the North, Tet in this city is a massive, multi-sensory festival designed for the young and the young-at-heart. The center of the excitement is Nguyen Hue Flower Street, where grand pedestrian boulevards are transformed into a breathtaking floral tapestry with art installations. Walking here at night under the neon glow of skyscrapers provides a perfect snapshot of a country moving forward without forgetting its roots.

Nguyen Hue pedestrian street filled with colorful flowers and neon lights during Tet.

For those seeking a night to remember, the celebration continues at the city’s many rooftop bars and the vibrant Bui Vien Walking Street, featuring special countdown events that rival Western capitals. Yet, the city maintains its soul in the quiet corners of Cho Lon (Saigon’s Chinatown), where the scent of incense and the sound of lion dances fill the air. A visit to the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market at midnight is a must-see; it is a chaotic, beautiful sea of blossoms being traded under the buzz of motorbikes.

Plan your Tet 2026 destinations in Vietnam with Paradise Travel

Vietnam during the Lunar New Year 2026 offers not just destinations but also emotion. It is a time when the country opens its heart, inviting those who are willing to look beyond the guidebooks to witness a nation in celebration. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of culture in the North or recharge your spirit by the ocean in the South, travel in the Year of the Horse promises to be a journey of vitality and new beginnings. The key is to embrace the rhythm of the holiday: slow down when the country slows down, and celebrate where the locals celebrate.

Ready to plan your Lunar New Year 2026 getaway? The best accommodations and flight routes fill up fast. Start outlining your Vietnam tours today to secure your place in one of Asia’s most spectacular celebrations