Tet Nguyen Dan – Vietnam’s Lunar New Year is the country’s most sacred celebration, when millions return home to honor ancestors and welcome spring’s renewal. Streets glow with red lanterns, families gather for ancestral rituals, and the air fills with incense and traditional foods. Experiencing Vietnam Tet holiday offers travelers a glimpse into Vietnamese culture’s heart like no other time of year.
But here’s the truth: Visiting Vietnam during Tet 2026 requires careful planning. Services operate differently, prices fluctuate, and availability becomes scarce. This guide will help you plan the perfect Vietnam Tet holiday, whether you’re drawn to cultural immersion or wondering if you should visit during this unique period.
What makes Tet special?
Tet Nguyen Dan (Festival of the First Morning) marks the arrival of spring and the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It’s more than just a holiday, it’s a sacred time when families reunite, honor ancestors, and welcome prosperity for the year ahead.
During Tet, you’ll witness traditions that have endured for centuries: children receiving lucky money in red envelopes, families visiting pagodas to pray for good fortune, and entire neighborhoods preparing elaborate feasts. The first visitor to a home on New Year’s Day is believed to determine the family’s luck for the entire year, making even casual interactions feel meaningful.
For travelers, this cultural depth creates unforgettable memories. You might be invited to share a meal with a local family, watch traditional lion dances in ancient streets, or participate in flower market shopping where vendors sell peach blossoms and kumquat trees symbolizing prosperity.
Important dates & Timeline for Vietnam Lunar New Year 2026
Vietnam Tet holiday 2026 falls on February 17, 2026 (the 1st day of the Lunar New Year).
The official public holiday runs February 14-22, 2026, though many businesses close earlier and reopen later. Here’s your planning timeline:
- February 10-13: Pre-Tet atmosphere intensifies, markets bustle with activity
- February 14-16: Many services begin closing, travel peaks
- February 17: Tet Day – most services closed, family-focused
- February 18-19: Continued celebration, gradual reopening begins
- February 20-22: Services resume, though some remain limited
- February 23 onward: Full operations return
What to expect: The reality
Let’s be honest: Vietnam Tet holiday offers unparalleled cultural experiences alongside service limitations. During the holiday’s peak (February 17-19), you’ll find:
What’s amazing:
- Authentic family celebrations and traditional ceremonies
- Vibrant flower markets and decorated streets
- Peaceful temples and spiritual atmosphere
- Unique regional customs and foods
- Warm hospitality from locals on holiday
What’s challenging:
- Many restaurants, shops, and attractions close
- Limited transportation options
- Premium pricing (30-100% increases)
- Fully booked accommodations
- Reduced tour availability
Expert Tip: Book by November-December 2025 for best availability. Top hotels and cruise operators sell out 2-3 months before Tet, and prices increase as the holiday approaches.
Is Tet a good time to visit Vietnam?
Visit if:
- You want an authentic, once-a-year cultural experience filled with family warmth, traditions, and festive energy.
- You can plan and book by November–December 2025 for guaranteed services.
- You’re comfortable with premium pricing and temporary service limitations.
- You’re open to adjusting your travel dates to arrive slightly before or after Tet for a smoother experience.
Expert advice:
For the best balance between atmosphere and convenience, arrive in Vietnam a few days before Tet (around the 25th of the Lunar month) when cities like Hanoi are alive with pre-holiday buzz, markets are colorful, and locals are preparing offerings. Then, spend the first days of Tet (1st – 2nd Lunar day) in Ninh Binh or Halong Bay, where you can enjoy peaceful scenery while most cities quiet down. Return to Hanoi or head south afterward as the country reopens and prices stabilize.
Note: Expect higher prices and limited availability during the exact Tet holiday (1st–3rd Lunar days), especially for cruise trips and premium accommodations. Booking early is essential.
Consider other dates if:
- You’re a budget traveler or prefer flexible arrangements.
- You prioritize nightlife, shopping, or consistent service availability over cultural immersion.
| Travel Style | Recommended Timing | Pros | Cons |
| Authentic culture | Feb 10-20, 2026 (Tet week) | Deep cultural immersion | High prices, limited services |
| Balanced experience | Feb 7-15, 2026 (arrive before Tet) | Festive atmosphere, good logistics | Must book early |
| Budget travel | After Feb 23, 2026 | Normal prices, full services | Less festive atmosphere |
Want to enjoy Tet’s magic without the stress? Our travel experts can help you plan the perfect before-and-after Tet itinerary that captures the celebration while maintaining comfort and reliability. Get in touch with our travel consultant here.
Best places to spend Tet in Vietnam 2026
Choosing where to experience Vietnam Tet holiday shapes your entire journey. Each region offers distinct traditions and atmospheres.
Hanoi – Traditional Capital celebrations
The capital delivers Tet at its most traditional. Old Quarter streets transform with decorations, while nearby villages maintain centuries-old customs.
Why visit: Ancient pagodas host elaborate ceremonies, flower markets overflow with symbolism, and you can witness traditional water puppetry performances. The pre-Tet period brings incredible energy as families shop for offerings and prepare homes.
Best experiences:
- Hang Ma Street’s festive decorations market
- Ngoc Son Temple prayers at midnight on Tet Eve
- Traditional villages like Bat Trang and Duong Lam
- Quang Ba flower market at night
Considerations: Cold weather (15-20°C), some attractions close, but the cultural authenticity is unmatched.
Hoi An – Lanterns, luck & Lunar magic
This UNESCO town balances cultural depth with tourist-friendly infrastructure. The Ancient Town’s lantern-lit streets and riverside setting create a magical Tet atmosphere.
Why visit: Services remain more available than in larger cities, the weather is pleasant (20-25°C), and you can combine cultural experiences with nearby beach relaxation in Da Nang.
Best experiences:
- Full Moon Lantern Festival (often coincides with Tet)
- Traditional family homes open for visits
- Cooking classes featuring Tet specialties
- An Bang or Cua Dai beaches for peaceful breaks
Considerations: More tourist-oriented but still authentic, better service availability during the holiday.
Mekong Delta – Authentic rural Tet
For travelers seeking the most traditional experience, the Delta’s floating markets and orchard villages offer Tet as it’s been celebrated for generations.
Why visit: Witness rural life centered around harvest and abundance. Visit flower villages supplying the nation, experience river-based celebrations, and enjoy the warmest weather (25-30°C).
Best experiences:
- Cai Rang floating market at sunrise
- Orchard homestays with local families
- Sa Dec flower village in full bloom
- Traditional southern Tet foods
Considerations: Requires flexibility and adventurous spirit, fewer luxury options, but incredibly rewarding.
Pro Tip: Combine 2-3 destinations for diversity. A Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Halong Bay route captures northern traditions, while Hoi An-Da Nang offers central charm with beach access.
Not sure which destinations suit you? Contact us here for a personalized consultation based on your interests and travel style.
Suggested itinerary to explore Vietnam Lunar New Year 2026
Many travelers wonder if Tet tours only cover a few locations. The reality is that well-planned Tet itineraries traverse multiple regions, balancing cultural immersion with comfort and logistics. Here’s a 14-day journey that captures Vietnam’s Tet magic while accounting for the holiday’s unique rhythm.
Days 1-3: Hanoi Pre-Tet Immersion (Feb 12-14)
Arrive when the capital buzzes with preparation energy. Explore the Old Quarter’s decoration markets, visit Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake, and walk through the Long Bien flower market before dawn. Take a cyclo ride through streets being adorned for celebration. Enjoy a traditional water puppetry show and sample street food at its freshest.
Day 4: Ninh Binh – Sacred Landscapes (Feb 15)
Travel to the “Halong Bay on Land” for tranquil scenery. Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, where thousands gather for pre-Tet blessings, and boat through the limestone karsts of Trang An. The spiritual atmosphere intensifies as Tet approaches.
Day 5: Return to Hanoi – New Year Celebration in Hanoi (Feb 16)
Head back to Hanoi for the most significant evening of the year. Experience the New Year celebration in Hanoi as the city transforms for Tet Eve. Join locals at Hoan Kiem Lake where thousands gather for the countdown, watch spectacular fireworks illuminate the Old Quarter sky, and feel the electric energy as families release floating lanterns. Visit Ngoc Son Temple at midnight when devotees make their first prayers of the year. Your guide will help you participate in traditional customs like exchanging lucky wishes and experiencing the symbolic “first footer” tradition that determines the year’s fortune.
Days 6-7: Halong Bay Cruise – Peaceful Tet Days (Feb 17-18)
After the excitement of Hanoi’s New Year celebration, escape to Halong Bay’s serene waters. Spend the actual Tet Day (February 17) cruising emerald waters, kayaking in hidden lagoons, and enjoying a special Tet feast aboard. This timing allows you to experience both the festive energy of the capital and the peaceful beauty of the bay during the holiday.
Day 8: Return to Hanoi, Evening Flight to Da Nang (Feb 19)
As services resume, transfer back to Hanoi and fly to Central Vietnam. The post-Tet period offers easier travel.
Days 9-11: Hoi An – Lantern Magic (Feb 20-22)
Explore the Ancient Town as it reopens, lanterns glowing each evening. Take a cooking class featuring Tet specialties, cycle to An Bang Beach, and visit nearby My Son Sanctuary. Experience the region’s unique Tet traditions.
Day 12: Hue – Imperial Tet (Feb 23)
Visit the former capital for imperial-style celebrations. Explore the Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and cruise the Perfume River. Hue’s royal heritage gives Vietnam Tet holiday a distinctive grandeur.
Day 13: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Feb 24)
Arrive in the dynamic southern metropolis as it returns to full energy. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Central Post Office. Experience the contrast between northern and southern Tet traditions.
Days 14-15: Mekong Delta & Departure (Feb 25-26)
Take a day trip to the Delta’s floating markets and orchards, now celebrating the extended Vietnam Tet holiday period. Sample southern specialties, boat through narrow canals, and visit a local family’s orchard. Return to HCMC for final shopping and departure.
Above is our suggested Vietnam 15 days itinerary for Tet holiday. If you want to find more trip ideas, check out our list of Vietnam private package tours.
How to Plan Your Vietnam Tet 2026 Trip (and Make It Stress-Free)
Successful Tet travel requires strategic planning. Here’s your comprehensive guide to managing logistics during Vietnam’s busiest holiday.
Booking timeline: When to act
September – October 2025: Begin researching and outlining your itinerary. Contact tour operators for initial consultations.
November 2025: Book international flights. Airlines release Tet period schedules, and prices remain reasonable.
November – December 2025: Reserve accommodations, domestic flights, and tours. Premium properties sell out completely by late December.
January 2026: Last-minute bookings possible but expect 50-100% price premiums and very limited options.
After January 15, 2026: Only scattered availability remains, often at properties with lower standards or locations far from main attractions.
What’s open, what’s closed
Understanding service patterns helps set realistic expectations:
|
Service Type |
Feb 14-16 |
Feb 17-19 (Peak Tet) |
Feb 20-22 |
Feb 23+ |
|
Major hotels |
Open |
Open |
Open |
Open |
|
Restaurants |
60% open |
20% open |
50% open |
90% open |
|
Museums/attractions |
50% open |
10% open |
70% open |
100% open |
|
Street food vendors |
70% open |
10% open |
60% open |
100% open |
|
Tour operators |
Available |
Limited |
Available |
Full service |
|
Local transportation |
Crowded |
Very limited |
Moderate |
Normal |
|
Shopping |
Full |
Minimal |
Moderate |
Full |
Action checklist:
- Withdraw cash before Feb 14: Many ATMs run out during Tet, and banks close
- Choose hotels wisely: Select properties that guarantee operation during Tet
- Bring medications: Pharmacies close or have limited hours
- Download offline maps: Mobile data may be unreliable in rural areas
- Have your hotel’s 24/7 contact: Essential for emergencies during closures
Weather & What to pack
Vietnam’s February weather varies dramatically by region:
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh): 15-20°C (59-68°F)
- Pack: Light jacket, long pants, layers for cool evenings
- Weather: Cool, occasionally misty, some rain possible
- Notes: Indoor spaces may lack heating
Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): 20-25°C (68-77°F)
- Pack: Light sweater, mix of shorts and long pants
- Weather: Pleasant, mostly dry, comfortable
- Notes: Ideal temperature for walking and cycling
Southern Vietnam (HCMC, Mekong Delta): 25-30°C (77-86°F)
- Pack: Summer clothes, sun protection, light rain jacket
- Weather: Warm and humid, brief afternoon showers
- Notes: Similar to summer in temperate climates
Universal packing list:
- Respectful clothing for temple visits (covered shoulders/knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk extensively)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Small gift items if invited to homes (fruit, sweets, tea)
- Adapters for Type A, C, or D outlets
Logistics & Money
Transportation challenges:
- Airports and major roads are crowded before and after the Vietnamese New Year
- Domestic flights and trains often sell out weeks in advance
- Taxi availability drops significantly during Tet Days
Solution: Book all transportation in advance. Consider private drivers for flexibility. Your tour operator should handle flight and transfer coordination, planning around local traffic peaks and limited services.
Money matters:
- ATMs: Withdraw sufficient cash by February 13
- Credit cards: Widely accepted in cities, but many small vendors close
- Tipping: 50,000-100,000 VND for exceptional service
- Lucky money: If gifted to local children, use new bills (banks exchange before Tet)
- Budget: Add 30-50% to normal Vietnam costs for Tet period
Communication:
- Vietnamese SIM cards work well (Viettel, Vinaphone)
- Hotels may have reduced staff for inquiries
- Translation apps prove invaluable
- Have key phrases written in Vietnamese
Accommodations
Hotel selection during Vietnam Tet holiday requires insider knowledge that goes beyond typical reviews. Their rates fluctuate daily (especially when it comes to Tet), and top properties may require prepayment or minimum night stays. Not all hotels follow the same holiday pricing policy, some charge premiums only on Tet days, others for the entire week.
Indochina Voyages team conducts annual inspections, ensuring reliability and comfort. We identify properties that:
- Guarantee full operation during Tet
- Maintain reasonable pricing policies
- Have staff available for guest needs
- Offer location advantages during closures
During Vietnamese New Year, hotel prices and availability can change quickly. We help you navigate these differences and secure the best value options before they sell out.
Health & Cultural etiquette
Health preparation:
- Bring prescription medications with extra supply
- Pack over-the-counter remedies (hospitals operate but with limited staff)
- Travel insurance covering Vietnam Tet holiday period closures
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself in southern heat
Cultural do’s:
- Accept invitations graciously if invited to celebrations
- Remove shoes when entering homes and temples
- Use both hands when giving or receiving items
- Dress modestly at religious sites
- Ask permission before photographing altars or ceremonies
Cultural don’ts:
- Don’t sweep or throw out trash on Tet Day (sweeps away luck)
- Avoid negative words or arguments during Tet
- Don’t wear all black (associated with funerals)
- Don’t touch people’s heads or point feet at altars
- Avoid being the first visitor if you’ve had recent bad luck
What if things go wrong?
Even perfect planning can face Tet’s unpredictability. A restaurant closes unexpectedly, weather delays a cruise, or a family emergency arises.
The value of professional support:
When you book a private tour with a reputable operator, you gain 24/7 on-ground support. Local guides handle schedule changes, find alternative dining when plans fall through, and manage emergencies with language fluency and cultural understanding.
Real scenarios we’ve solved:
- Finding open pharmacies when a client needed medication
- Rebooking cruises when weather closed Halong Bay
- Arranging emergency transport when a client needed to change departure
- Securing last-minute accommodations when family members extended trips
Expert Tip: We recommend arriving around the 25th day of the lunar month (approximately February 12, 2026), when pre-Tet markets are vibrant and services fully available, then spending the first days of the Vietnamese New Year cruising in Halong Bay or relaxing in Ninh Binh. Our travel consultants will recommend ideal arrival dates (a few days before or after Tet) to balance cultural experiences and comfort.
Why book a private tour for Vietnam Tet holiday 2026
Planning Tet travel independently means 40-50 hours researching which services stay open, navigating language barriers with reduced staff, and handling unexpected closures alone. A private tour guarantees vetted accommodations, provides authentic cultural access through local guides, and delivers 24/7 support when issues arise. The cost difference is minimal, DIY runs $3,350-5,100 versus $3,500-4,800 for private tours, but the experience quality differs dramatically: stress versus peace of mind, surface observation versus deep immersion.
Choose operators with 15++ years Vietnam presence, direct hotel relationships, transparent Tet pricing, and proven references. As one client shared: “We wanted to visit Vietnam during TET in Hanoi and decided to leave the planning and logistics to the excellent staff at Indochina Voyages Travel. What a GREAT TRIP! They covered all of the details for us – planes, trains, and automobiles – as well as guides in Vietnam and Laos.” (View full review on TripAdvisor)
Contact us here or email us at [email protected] for a custom quote, no obligation required! Share your interests and travel dates, and we’ll design an itinerary balancing Tet’s cultural richness with your comfort.
Frequently asked questions
When exactly is Tet 2026?
Tet 2026 falls on February 17, 2026 (the 1st day of the Lunar New Year). The official holiday period runs February 14-22, though many businesses close earlier and reopen later. Plan your trip around February 10-25 to experience both the pre-Tet atmosphere and the actual holiday.
Is Tet a good time to visit Vietnam?
Yes, if you prioritize authentic cultural experiences over convenience and can plan ahead. Vietnam Tet holiday offers unique traditions, festive atmosphere, and genuine hospitality that create unforgettable memories. However, expect higher prices, limited services, and closures during the peak days (Feb 17-19). Arriving a few days before Tet provides the best balance, you’ll enjoy the festive buildup while services remain available, then experience the actual holiday in scenic areas like Halong Bay or Ninh Binh.
What will be closed during Vietnam Tet holiday?
During peak Tet days (February 17-19), expect 80-90% of restaurants, street vendors, shops, and local businesses to close. Museums and attractions also close or operate with limited hours. Transportation operates but with reduced frequency. However, major hotels, pre-booked tours, and tourist services in key destinations continue operating. Services gradually resume after February 20, with full operations returning by February 23.
How much more expensive is Tet travel?
Expect 30-100% price increases depending on service type and exact dates. Hotels typically charge 50-80% premiums, especially February 16-18. Tours and cruises add 40-60% to standard rates. Domestic flights increase 30-50%. Restaurant meals at tourist-oriented establishments may cost 20-30% more. However, with early booking (November-December 2025), you can secure better rates before last-minute premiums apply.
When should I book my Tet 2026 trip?
Book by November-December 2025 for best availability and pricing. Top accommodations and cruises sell out 2-3 months before Tet. If you’re considering travel during Tet, start planning by October 2025 and finalize bookings by December. After January 15, only limited, often overpriced options remain.
Should I travel independently or book a tour during Tet?
While Vietnam is generally DIY-friendly, visiting Vietnam during Tet changes the equation significantly. Independent travel during Tet requires extensive planning, language ability, and flexibility to handle unexpected closures. A private tour ensures guaranteed services, authentic cultural access through local guides, stress-free logistics, and 24/7 support when issues arise. For first-time Vietnam visitors or those seeking worry-free travel, a private tour delivers significantly better value during the Tet period despite similar costs to independent travel.
What’s the weather like in mid-February?
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay): 15-20°C, cool and occasionally misty, requiring light jackets. Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang): 20-25°C, pleasant and mostly dry, ideal conditions. Southern Vietnam (HCMC, Mekong Delta): 25-30°C, warm and humid with possible brief showers. Pack layers for the north, summer clothes for the south, and respectful attire for temple visits throughout.
How do I experience authentic Tet versus tourist-oriented activities?
Authentic Vietnamese New Year experiences happen through local connections, visiting families’ homes, participating in temple prayers, and observing traditional preparations. Private guides facilitate these interactions naturally. Arrive before Tet to visit local markets where families shop for offerings, not tourist markets. Stay in neighborhoods rather than purely tourist zones. Observe respectfully: ask before photographing altars or ceremonies, follow your guide’s cues on appropriate participation, and bring small gifts if invited to homes. The most authentic moments often happen spontaneously when you’re with knowledgeable local guides who can bridge cultural gaps.
What our clients say
“We are a family of 4, 2 adults and 2 kids (12 and 17 yo) and just came back from an amazing holiday in Vietnam, organized with Indochina Voyage. Van Do was so nice, prompt and honest and proposed us the best itinerary and experiences for our time. She even came to meet us and drink a coffee together when in Hanoi. We have visited Hanoi, spent the New Years Eve on a cruise in Halong Bay, flowed to Ho Chi Minh and visit it, a day in Mekong Delta and then flew to Phu Quoc Island and rest for the last 4 days. The hotels Van Do offered were really nice, really 4* or 5*, very well located, our tour guides, Linda in Hanoi and Tom in Saigon were extremely nice, educated, well informed and passionate about their jobs, daily program was varied and balanced and the restaurants very good and authentic.
We hope to come back again to visit this beautiful country and to meet our new friends.
We highly recommend the services of Indochina Voyage.”
“… We brainstormed about what I envisioned on the trip, Linh chose hotels that were centrally located, stayed within our budget, and what evolved was truly a flawless experience. We were even treated to a fireworks show on New Years Eve at our river front hotel. We laughed, we cried, and did Tai Chi on the beautiful V’spirit Cruise on Lan Ha Bay. By choice, we did 5 domestic flights, 12 plane rides in all in 18 days, no snafus, nothing was left to chance. Indochina Voyages is a top notch company to be sure, but the ripple effect will stay with me always…”
– Claudine, view full review on Tripadvisor
Your Tet adventure awaits
Vietnam Tet holiday offers something no other time of year can match, a glimpse into the country’s soul during its most meaningful celebration. Yes, Tet requires more planning than typical travel. Yes, you’ll pay premium prices and encounter service limitations. But witnessing families honor centuries of tradition, experiencing the collective hope and joy that fills every street corner, and participating in rituals that bind past to present creates memories that transcend typical sightseeing.
The key to a successful Vietnam Tet holiday journey isn’t avoiding the challenges, it’s planning strategically with a trusted partner who knows how to navigate them. When you book early, choose the right timing (arriving before Tet, experiencing the holiday in scenic areas, then traveling as services resume), and work with experts who guarantee services and provide authentic cultural access, Tet becomes the trip of a lifetime rather than a stressful ordeal.
The families preparing altars, the markets overflowing with symbolism, the midnight temple prayers, the children’s laughter as they receive lucky money. These moments wait for you in February 2026. But only if you start planning now.
Start Your Tet 2026 Journey – Contact Indochina Voyages here or at [email protected] for a personalized consultation. Share your travel dates and interests, and we’ll design an itinerary that captures Tet’s cultural magic while ensuring your comfort.
The Year of the Horse welcomes you to Vietnam. Let’s make it unforgettable together.
