Best places to visit in Vietnam in March

March is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, with spring in the north, sunny days in the center, and warm beaches in the south. Pleasant weather and cultural events make it an ideal time to explore the country, whether you’re planning a trip soon or looking ahead to travel to Vietnam in 2026.

Weather in Vietnam in March

March brings some of the most balanced weather of the year, making it ideal for traveling across the country. Each region offers a unique climate and experience:

• North (Hanoi, Halong, Sapa, Ha Giang): Cool spring days, around 18–22°C, with occasional light drizzle. Perfect for trekking and sightseeing, but bring layers.
• Central (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, My Son): Warm and dry, averaging 24–27°C, great for exploring historical sites and coastal towns.
• South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang): Hot and sunny, 28–32°C, with ideal conditions for beaches and islands.

Festivals and Events in March

March is one of the liveliest months to experience Vietnam’s cultural spirit, with festivals that mix spirituality, tradition, and beauty.

Perfume Pagoda Festival (Hanoi outskirts, late Jan – mid-March)

Time to Visit: Best in early mornings on weekdays between late January and mid-March (avoid weekends for smaller crowds).

Activities:

• Take a scenic boat trip along the Yen Stream, surrounded by limestone cliffs and rice paddies.
• Hike or ride the cable car to Huong Tich Cave, the heart of the pilgrimage.
• Join pilgrims in Buddhist rituals, lighting incense and offering prayers for health and prosperity.
• Explore local food stalls and souvenir markets near the pagoda complex.

What to Expect: A spiritual yet festive atmosphere, with thousands of pilgrims each day. While crowded, the combination of natural beauty and cultural significance makes it one of Vietnam’s most memorable experiences.

Perfume Pagoda

Local Spring Festivals (Ha Giang, Sapa, throughout March)

Time to Visit: Anytime in March, especially weekends when village gatherings are most lively.

Activities:

• Witness ethnic minority communities-Hmong, Dao, Tay, and others-celebrating spring.
• Enjoy traditional games like tug-of-war, swinging contests, and horse races.
• Watch folk music and dance performances in vibrant embroidered costumes.
• Explore colorful ethnic markets selling textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.

What to Expect: An intimate, authentic cultural immersion in the northern mountains. These festivals are less crowded than national events, making them perfect for travelers seeking genuine traditions in a stunning natural setting.

Colorful Hmong festival brightens Vietnam in March with music, dance, and tradition.

Hoi An Lantern Festival (March 13)

Time to Visit: Evening of March 13 (full moon night), ideally arriving before sunset to secure a good viewing spot.

Activities:

• Watch the ancient town light up as electric lights are turned off and thousands of lanterns glow in the streets.
• Release paper lanterns onto the Thu Bon River while making wishes for happiness and good fortune.
• Enjoy cultural performances including folk singing, poetry recitals, and traditional games.
• Savor local street foods sold by vendors lining the lantern-lit alleys.

What to Expect: A magical, romantic atmosphere with large crowds but unforgettable views. The festival perfectly showcases Hoi An’s historic charm and community spirit.

Hoi An lights up lantern during Tet

Best places to visit in Vietnam in March

Northern Vietnam

• Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong): A highlight of Northern Vietnam adventures, this religious pilgrimage combines a serene boat ride along the Yen Stream with a hike or cable car journey to Huong Tich Grotto.
• Ha Giang: March is perfect for Ha Giang tours, when peach and plum blossoms cover the mountains. Travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed Dong Van Karst Plateau, climb the Lung Cu Flag Tower, and experience Hmong culture in remote villages.
• Ha Long Bay: Clear skies and calm waters make this the ideal month for overnight cruises through dramatic limestone formations and emerald seas.
• Sapa: Trekking in cool weather is a highlight here, with trails winding past terraced rice fields and blooming spring flowers

Ha Long Bay, a Must-See in Northern Vietnam!

Central Vietnam

• Hue: With mild weather, it’s easy to explore the Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, and ancient pagodas at a relaxed pace-ideal for trips to Central Vietnam.
• Da Nang: My Khe Beach offers warm sands and gentle waves, while the Marble Mountains provide a mix of caves, pagodas, and panoramic views.
• Hoi An: The full moon Lantern Festival is at its most magical in March, while calm days at Cua Dai and An Bang beaches make for a perfect mix of culture and relaxation.
• My Son Sanctuary: Dry, sunny conditions make it simple to enjoy this atmospheric Champa temple site on a half-day trip from Hoi An or Da Nang.

Imperial Citadel, Hue

Southern Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City: A vibrant mix of French colonial architecture, flower streets, buzzing markets, and museums makes this a must on Southern Vietnam travel packages.
• Mekong Delta: With dry-season weather, visitors can enjoy floating markets, fruit orchards, and boat journeys through the maze of canals.
• Phu Quoc Island: Peak beach season means crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving. Many travelers choose to explore Phu Quoc tours that include island-hopping, night squid fishing, and local seafood feasts.
• Nha Trang & Mui Ne: Hot and sunny days are perfect for water sports, beach resorts, and kite surfing, making them favorite coastal getaways.

Cai Rang Floating Market

Suggested Vietnam Itineraries for March

• Classic Culture Tour (10 days): Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Halong Bay cruise, Hue’s imperial history, Hoi An’s lantern nights, and Ho Chi Minh City’s urban energy.
• Adventure & Trekking (12 days): Scenic Ha Giang loop, Sapa’s terraced rice fields, and a relaxing Halong Bay cruise for nature lovers.
• Beach Escape (7–9 days): Sun and sea in Da Nang, lantern-lit evenings in Hoi An, and snorkeling or diving with explore Phu Quoc tours.
• Vietnam family holiday packages (10 days): A mix of culture and fun-Hanoi, Halong Bay cruise, family-friendly Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta’s floating markets.

Travel Tips for March

• Tet is over, so most places remain open; Perfume Pagoda Festival continues into mid-March.
• March is peak season-book flights, hotels, and tours early.
• Hydrate well, wear sunscreen in the south, and dress in light layers.
• Ha Giang and Sapa are in blossom season, perfect for photography.

Embracing the Magic of March in Vietnam

March in Vietnam is one of the most rewarding times to explore the country, with balanced weather, lively festivals, and endless opportunities for cultural discovery. From trekking through blossoming mountains in the north to relaxing on sunny beaches in the south, every region feels inviting. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or family-friendly experiences, carefully planned Vietnam tours in March make it easy to enjoy the best of the country. With festivals like the Lantern Festival in Hoi An and the Perfume Pagoda pilgrimage still in full swing, travelers can dive into authentic traditions while enjoying pleasant travel conditions. If you’re planning your next journey, March in Vietnam promises a unique blend of culture, nature, and unforgettable memories.