Best places to visit in Vietnam in February

Travel to Vietnam in 2026 offers one of the best experiences in February, when the country is alive with vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations. This month marks spring in the North and the dry season in the Central and Southern regions, making it an ideal time to explore Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. For locals, February is the most important time of the year, filled with traditional festivities that reflect the nation’s rich heritage.

Weather in Vietnam in February

North of Vietnam and Hanoi are getting warmer in February with sunlight appears sometimes. The average temperature in Hanoi, Halong Bay is around 20 °C with low humidity, while it is still cool in highland travel areas of Sapa, Ha Giang. There is not much rain this season and is among the best time of the year to visit this area. It is still a bit cold sometimes in February in some part in North Vietnam so travelers should prepare warm clothes.

Hue, Da Nang, Hoian and Central area and southward to the South with Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong delta are much warmer with the average temperature around 26 – 30 °C, a good time to visit or relax on a beach holiday in Vietnam.

Festivals and travel events in February

Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) – Nationwide

Time to visit: Late January – early February (exact dates vary by lunar calendar; in 2025, Tet falls on Jan 29–Feb 4).

Activities:

• Join family-centered celebrations with traditional food, dragon dances, and flower markets.
• Explore decorated streets in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue.
• Visit temples for good-luck rituals.

Travel tips:

• Many shops, banks, and businesses close for several days.
• Book transportation and accommodation well in advance.
• Great time to experience Vietnamese hospitality with homestays or local tours.

Tet Nguyen Tieu is the day for prayers

Go Dong Da Festival – Hanoi (Feb 2)

Time to visit: Morning for the main ceremony.

Activities:

• Watch reenactments of Emperor Quang Trung’s victory over the Qing army.
• Join parades with martial arts performances and folk games.
• Travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot near Dong Da Hill.

Travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot near Dong Da Hill.

Huong (Perfume) Pagoda Festival – Hanoi Outskirts (Feb 3 – lasts 3 months)

Time to visit: Best during early days (February) to avoid peak crowds in March.

Activities:

• Take a scenic boat trip along the Yen Stream.
• Hike or ride a cable car to Huong Tich Cave Pagoda.
• Experience Buddhist rituals and offerings.

Travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for climbing; weekdays are less crowded.

The Famous Huong River in Hue

Yen Tu Pagoda Festival – Quang Ninh (Feb 8)

Time to visit: Early morning for rituals, February–March for spiritual treks.

Activities:

• Pilgrimage up Yen Tu Mountain, the cradle of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism.
• Visit ancient pagodas and enjoy panoramic views.

Travel tips: The climb can take 4–6 hours, but cable cars are available.

Lim Festival – Bac Ninh (Feb 10)

Time to visit: All-day, especially afternoon for performances.

Activities:

• Enjoy quan ho (folk singing) recognized by UNESCO.
• Take part in traditional games like bamboo swings and wrestling.

Travel tips: Combine with a day trip from Hanoi (1–1.5 hours by car).

Insider Note

• Joining local festivals lets travelers connect with Vietnam’s living culture, beyond sightseeing.
• Plan around large crowds—festivals are lively but can get very busy. Traveling with a local guide helps navigate logistics, find the best spots, and understand the deeper meaning behind rituals.

Places to visit in Vietnam in February

Northern Vietnam

• Hanoi: February in Vietnam is full of festive charm in the capital. Tet brings the Old Quarter to life with flower markets, street decorations, and traditional foods. Walking around Hoan Kiem Lake or visiting ancient temples gives travelers a true sense of the holiday spirit.
• Ha Long Bay: Clear skies and calm seas make Ha Long Bay one of the best destinations in February. Cruises are ideal for exploring limestone karsts, caves, and floating villages, while photography, kayaking, and fresh seafood dining add to the experience.
• Sapa & Ha Giang: Cool, crisp weather is perfect for trekking in these mountainous regions. Spring blossoms cover valleys, while ethnic minority groups host colorful spring festivals. Trips to Northern Vietnam in February allow visitors to combine nature, culture, and authentic homestays.
• Mai Chau & Moc Chau: These valleys are especially charming this month, with peach blossoms, tea plantations, and rural New Year traditions. Homestays offer travelers the chance to experience local dances, foods, and warm hospitality.

Stunning scenery of Ha Giang

Central Vietnam

• Hue: February in Vietnam is mild and pleasant in Hue, ideal for visiting the Imperial City, royal tombs, and historic pagodas. Boat rides on the Perfume River add to the atmosphere, especially during Tet.
• Da Nang & My Khe Beach: Sunshine dominates Central Vietnam in February, making Da Nang a great spot for relaxing beach days and excursions to Marble Mountains or Ba Na Hills.
• Hoi An: Lantern-lit streets turn magical in February, particularly during Tet. Cultural shows, bustling markets, and traditional ceremonies make Hoi An a highlight of tours across Central Vietnam.
• My Son Sanctuary: Dry weather makes this the best time to explore the UNESCO-listed ruins. The ancient Hindu temples can be visited comfortably without heavy rains.

wimming in My Khe beach

Southern Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City: February in Vietnam is vibrant in the south’s largest city. Tet flower streets such as Nguyen Hue attract thousands of visitors, while parades and lion dances fill the city with energy.
• Mekong Delta: The dry season makes February the perfect month to discover the Mekong by boat. Floating markets, fruit orchards, and river villages offer travelers a glimpse of authentic rural life.
• Phu Quoc Island: Peak beach season makes Phu Quoc irresistible. Clear seas, warm sunshine, snorkeling, and luxury resorts create an ideal tropical escape.
• Nha Trang / Mui Ne: Both destinations enjoy sunny, dry weather. Nha Trang is famous for sandy beaches, diving, and nightlife, while Mui Ne attracts visitors with kite surfing, fishing villages, and its unique red and white sand dunes. Guided tours of Southern Vietnam often combine these coastal highlights with cultural stops inland.

Phu Quoc

Suggested itineraries for February

Cultural (10 days): Hanoi → Halong Bay → Hue → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City.

• Highlights: Tet atmosphere in Hanoi, Halong cruises, Hue’s Imperial City, lantern-lit Hoi An, and vibrant Saigon.

Beach & Relaxation (7–10 days): Da Nang → Hoi An → Nha Trang → Phu Quoc.

• Highlights: My Khe Beach, Hoi An evenings, Nha Trang nightlife, and Phu Quoc’s clear waters.

Adventure (10–12 days): Hanoi → Sapa → Ha Giang → Halong Bay → Mekong Delta.

• Highlights: Trekking, mountain passes, ethnic markets, Halong cruises, and Delta boat trips.

Travel tips for February

• Tet impact: Expect closures, crowded transport, higher prices; book early.
• Packing: Layers for the North, light clothes for the South, swimwear for beaches.
• Best season: February’s dry, pleasant weather makes it perfect for trips to Northern Vietnam, tours across Central Vietnam, and guided tours of Southern Vietnam.

Your Vietnam Journey in February Awaits

February is truly one of the best months to explore Vietnam – from the colorful Tet celebrations in the North, to sunny beaches in the Central and Southern regions, and the lively festivals that bring culture to life everywhere. Whether you’re looking for a family holiday, an adventurous trekking journey, or a relaxing beach getaway, there are countless Vietnam tours in February that can be tailored to your style of travel.

At Paradise Travel, we act as your trusted local advisor before, during, and after your trip. We share insider knowledge, customize Vietnam tours to match your preferences, and ensure you get the best value – whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking a luxury experience.