May is the in-between month between spring and summer in Vietnam, which could be really hot and humid in the area. But visiting Vietnam in May could be a perfect time for those who fall in love with the ripe rice season and charming beaches. Let’s begin the journey with Indochina Voyages to explore the best places to visit in Vietnam in May from North to South!
How is the weather in Vietnam in May?
In May, Vietnam experiences warm and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) across the country. It’s important to note that May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, so you can expect occasional showers and increased humidity in this region. To make the most of your trip, it’s advisable to explore the northern and central parts of Vietnam, which offer pleasant temperatures and lower chances of rain during this time.
Here is the detail for each region in Vietnam in May:
The North
In May, North Vietnam experiences warm and dry weather. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it an ideal time to explore this region. Expect pleasant and sunny days with lower chances of rain. It’s a great opportunity to visit mountainous destinations like Ha Giang, Tam Coc-Ninh Binh to witness the beauty of the rice terraces in full greenery and the Heritage of World UNESCO Halong Bay.
The Central
Central Vietnam also enjoys warm temperatures in May, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This region experiences dry and sunny weather, making it a fantastic time to visit beautiful beaches in Central at Danang or Nha Trang. With the dry season and sunshine, it is also an ideal time to stroll around Hoi An Ancient Town and explore wonderful cultures.
The South
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, including areas like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Expect increased humidity, occasional showers, and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). However, if there is rain, it usually doesn’t last long in South Areas such as Ho Chi Minh City.
Best Places to Visit Vietnam in May
Vietnam in May is hot, so it is recommended to visit the country’s mountainous areas and beaches to make the most of your trip. Here are some destinations worth exploring:
Ha Giang
Located in North Mountain Vietnam, Ha Giang is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and ethnic minority cultures. In May, Ha Giang is at its most vibrant, with lush green rice terraces stretching across the mountainsides. Take a motorbike or trekking tour to explore the region’s picturesque valleys, visit local villages, and witness the fascinating way of life of the ethnic communities.
Tam Coc – Ninh Binh
Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province is a must-visit destination in May. This region boasts enchanting scenery with towering limestone karsts rising from vibrant green rice fields. Especially when visit Tam Coc in May, you will have a chance to explore the breathtaking landscape created by ripe rice fields when biking or taking a boat trip here.
Take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through stunning caves and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the ancient temples and pagodas scattered throughout the area, and don’t miss climbing the steps to the top of Hang Mua for panoramic views of the landscape.
Halong Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is an iconic destination in Vietnam. May offers ideal weather for cruising through the bay’s emerald waters and admiring the limestone karsts that dot the landscape. Enjoy the panoramic views from the deck of a traditional junk boat, explore hidden caves, and indulge in fresh seafood. Witnessing the sunrise or sunset over the bay is an unforgettable experience.
Pu Luong Thanh Hoa
Not too crowded and touristy like Sapa, For a tranquil escape, Pu Luong in Thanh Hoa province is a hidden gem in May. Visiting this rural area offers stunning landscapes with terraced rice fields, lush forests, and traditional stilt houses. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, go hiking through the picturesque valleys, and interact with the friendly local communities. The breathtaking beauty of Pu Luong is enhanced by the ripe rice season, when the fields come alive with golden hues.
Danang
Located in Central Vietnam, Danang is a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage. In May, Danang offers warm weather and is perfect for enjoying the sun, sand, and cool turquoise water.
Relax on the pristine beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delicious seafood. Don’t miss visiting the famous Golden Bridge, an impressive architectural marvel that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Hoian
Just a short distance from Danang, Hoi An is a charming ancient town that transports you back in time. May is an excellent time to explore this other UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, as the weather is warm and the town is less crowded.
Walk through the narrow streets adorned with lanterns, visit the well-preserved historic buildings and temples, and immerse yourself in the bustling markets. Hoi An is famous for its tailors, so consider getting a custom-made outfit during your visit.
Nha Trang
Situated on Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. Despite the beginning of the rainy season in May, Nha Trang still offers warm temperatures and occasional sunshine. Relax on the sandy shores, go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the colorful coral reefs, and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies. Don’t miss visiting the Vinpearl Land amusement park for a fun-filled day.
What about Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City in May?
After arriving at the main airports in Vietnam, such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), which are often the points of entry for travelers from countries like the US, Australia, Canada, and more, you may find that these cities can be quite hot in May.
Upon arrival, it might be a good idea to stay one night in either Hanoi or HCMC, preferably in the late afternoon or evening when the temperature is not as high as it would be during the day. This will allow you to have a leisurely stroll around the charming Hanoi Old Quarter or experience the vibrant nightlife of Saigon.
By spending the night in one of these cities, you can also take the opportunity to rest and adjust to the local time zone before embarking on your journey to explore other highly recommended destinations the following morning. This way, you’ll start your trip feeling refreshed and ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Vietnam.
Cost & Crowd
Early May is a great time to enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches basking in glorious sunshine, and the advantage is that you’ll encounter fewer crowds compared to earlier in the year. May ranks among the months with lower visitor numbers, except for the period around April 30 to May 2, when many Vietnamese embark on sightseeing trips during the holiday season.
During May, Vietnamese families tend to stay at home, eagerly anticipating the upcoming school holidays in mid-June. As a result, popular beaches like Nha Trang or Quy Nhon won’t be crowded, and major tourist sites and museums in cities will be less busy as well, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. Moreover, this shoulder season presents an opportunity to negotiate better prices for tours and accommodations. However, it’s worth noting that the onset of the rainy season also means an increase in mosquitoes.
In summary, May in Vietnam offers a favorable balance of lower crowds, reasonable prices, and pleasant weather, making it an appealing time to explore the country’s diverse attractions.
FAQs
Is April or May better for Vietnam?
Both April and May are good months to visit Vietnam. April offers pleasant weather with low humidity, while May brings warmer temperatures. If you prefer milder weather, April might be a better choice. However, May provides an opportunity to witness the ripe rice season in various regions, which adds a unique charm to the landscapes.
Is Maymonsoon season in Vietnam?
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, particularly in regions like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. While rain showers are more frequent during this time, they are usually short-lived and shouldn’t significantly disrupt your travel plans. In North and Central Vietnam, May is generally drier with lower chances of rain. However, it’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
Is May a good time to visit Vietnam?
May can be a great time to visit Vietnam, especially if you enjoy warm weather and want to admire the stunning ripe rice season and beautiful beaches in Vietnam. The northern and central regions offer pleasant temperatures and lower chances of rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
However, if you plan to visit South Vietnam, be prepared for occasional showers and increased humidity. Overall, May offers a good balance between weather conditions and crowd levels, making it a favorable month to experience the diverse attractions of Vietnam.
We hope after reading this travel guide, you’ll plan your visit to Vietnam in May successfully. Whether you choose to explore the mountainous areas, indulge in the ripe rice season, or relax on the beautiful beaches, Vietnam has something to offer for every traveler. Enjoy your trip!
From Hue Nguyen – Travel Consultant and Indochina Voyages Team
