Seasons

Hanoi has two main seasons, the northeast monsoon months of November to April and the southwest monsoon months of May to October. The northeast monsoon season can be further divided into a winter season from November to February, which sees the coolest and driest days with average temperatures of 10-15 degree Celsius and only 20 millimeters of rain. Springtime runs from February to April, when warmer temperatures are accompanied by more rain, up to 80 millimeters in April. The southwest monsoon summer months of May to September can get uncomfortably hot (temperatures into the mid-30s) and humid with heavy rains, especially in July and August when each month gets an average 320 millimeters of rain. The autumn months of September to November are generally sunny and mild, cited vietnamguides.

Being inland, Hanoi escapes the brunt of the summer typhoon storms, but there can be some wild weather to watch out for.

When is the best time to come?

Hanoi is one of the few places in Vietnam with 4 distinctive seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. The average temperature varies dramatically from about 12 degree Celsius during the coldest months up to 36 degree Celsius in peak summer.

Hanoi. Photo: pullman

Spring (February to April) and autumn (September to November) are perhaps the best time to travel to Hanoi because of the pleasant weather, when the temperature is not too low nor overwhelmingly high. Hanoi spring often marks its arrival with warm weather and clear bright sky. Travelers can also immerse in fantastic traditional activities which only occur during Tet holiday, cited vietnamonline.

Meanwhile, heavy showers in September end the heat of summer, boasting another great time to visit the city and enjoy a walk down the central streets, stepping over the mats of yellow leaves.

However, there are always attractive things to enjoy in Hanoi no matter if it is a sweating summer time or chilly nights before festive season.

What are the top things to do in Hanoi?

Sample the street food

For an authentic taste of Hanoi, look to the street kitchens of the Old Quarter. Steaming pots of its star anise-infused Pho broth simmer on every corner; while every day, the scent of bún chả fills the air as barbecued pork sizzles over hot coals.

Stroll the Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter serves up a sensory overload. Wisps of incense drift out onto streets from ancient temples, while the clang of blacksmiths’ hammers mingles with mobile fruit sellers’ call. Jump in a cyclo and tour this intoxicating maze, according to vietnam.travel.

Hanoians get their coffee fix at hundreds of street-side cafes. Photo: vietnam.travel

Explore Hanoi's cafe culture

Fast-paced on the surface, the true rhythm of Hanoi life is far from hurried and is reflected well in its leisurely coffee hours. Alongside traditional coffee houses, an ever-growing band of unique cafes serve new brews in cool caffeine dens.

Check out the art scene

Hanoi is Vietnam’s art capital. The elegant Fine Arts Museum houses the country’s foremost collection, such as ancient Cham artifacts and impressionist pieces. For something more contemporary, head for Manzi or the Vietnam Art Gallery.

Join the locals at Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake rests in the heart of Hanoi. Every morning it comes alive with walkers, aerobics classes, and even a laughing yoga group; and bursts back into activity at sunset, thronged with locals taking in the evening air.