If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam’s most charming ancient town, knowing the best time to visit Hoi An makes all the difference. Hoi An, located in Central Vietnam, has a mix of sunny days, tropical rains, and cool breezes that shape your travel experience. In this post, Huracars will share our personal take on when to visit, what to expect, and how to make the most of every season in this lantern-lit town.
During my trips, I found that the weather in Hoi An isn’t just about sunshine and rain, it also sets the mood for your adventure. Let’s dive deeper into each season and discover how to plan your visit wisely.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Hoi An Ancient town?
From my experience, the ideal time to visit Hoi An is between February and April. These months offer the most pleasant weather, perfect for walking around the Ancient Town or cycling along the Thu Bon River.
The dry season lasts from January to August, bringing blue skies and warm sunshine. On the other hand, the rainy season starts in September and usually lasts until December. The change in weather each season makes Hoi An feel like a different town every few months.
| Month | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) | Rain Chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| February | 26 | 20 | Low |
| March | 28 | 22 | Very Low |
| April | 30.5 | 24 | Rare |
| October | 29 | 23 | High |
I personally love March, it’s warm enough for the beach but not too hot for exploring the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An Old Town.
Understanding Hoi An’s Seasons
Hoi An’s weather can be divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
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Dry Season (January-August): The town glows with sunshine. You’ll get long days, perfect for exploring by foot or bicycle. This is also when Da Nang, just 30 minutes away, shares similar bright skies.
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Rainy Season (September-December): Expect frequent showers, especially in October, the wettest month. Sometimes, the Thu Bon River rises and causes mild flooding in the Old Town. Surprisingly, I enjoyed one of my best evenings here during light rain, it added charm to the golden lantern reflections.
The climate here follows a tropical monsoon pattern, which makes the transition months (January and September) interesting—neither too wet nor too dry.
Best Months to Visit Hoi An
February to April truly stand out. February brings mild temperatures around 26°C, March is a bit warmer at 28°C, and April hits 30°C with more daylight.
During this time, Hoi An feels alive, street vendors smile, tailors open their shops early, and the town glows under endless sunlight. These months are perfect for walking, taking photos, or visiting An Bang Beach.
“Hoi An is a town best explored on foot, and the dry months give you that golden opportunity.”
If you love photography, March offers soft morning light that makes the lanterns pop in your shots. April, meanwhile, is ideal for cycling to Cua Dai Beach or enjoying riverside cafes in peace.
Second Perfect Time to Explore Hoi An
If you’re more of a beach lover, May to July are your go-to months. These are the hottest months, reaching up to 34°C during the day.
I remember my visit in June, the air was hot, but a morning swim at An Bang Beach made it all worth it. You’ll get clear skies, perfect for photos and seaside fun.
However, it’s important to stay hydrated and plan your outdoor walks early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These months also see more tourists, so hotel prices can rise slightly.
Still, it’s one of the second-best times to visit Hoi An, especially if you enjoy long days and blue skies.
The Rainy Season in Hoi An (August to January)
Many travelers avoid this season, but I actually found it peaceful. From August to January, rain becomes frequent, and the air cools down to around 24°C. October is the month with the heaviest rainfall.
If you don’t mind gray skies, Hoi An during rain feels like stepping into a movie scene.
You can explore indoor attractions, visit tailor shops, enjoy local coffee, or join a cooking class. The Lantern Festival, which sometimes happens on rainy nights, is still magical with reflections dancing on the wet streets.
For budget travelers, this season is ideal. Fewer tourists mean cheaper rooms and quiet streets.
Weather by Month in Hoi An
Here’s a quick guide based on my trips and local data:
- January: Cool and calm, a great time for temple visits.
- February: Dry and pleasant, ideal for walking tours.
- March – April: Warm, bright, and perfect for photography.
- May – July: Hot and sunny; best for beaches.
- August: Transition month; occasional showers.
- September – November: Rainy season at its peak.
- December: Cool and quiet; fewer tourists.
In short, Hoi An has dry and rainy seasons, and tourists prefer February to April for comfort and sunshine.
Things to Do in Hoi An by Season
Each season brings something unique:
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Dry Season:
- Explore the Ancient Town early morning for perfect photos.
- Cycle to An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach.
- Visit temples and markets without worrying about rain.
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Rainy Season:
- Join a cooking class or get clothes tailored.
- Enjoy hot coffee in riverside cafes.
- Watch the Lantern Festival under soft rain.
If you plan to visit during the rainy season, don’t worry, there are still plenty of fun things to enjoy! Check out my detailed guide on what to do in a rainy day in Hoi An for more cozy and creative ideas.
During my last visit in October, I spent hours at a café watching the Thu Bon River flow quietly, a simple yet unforgettable moment.
If you want to plan your itinerary, check this guide for first-time travelers in Hoi An where I share more travel examples and routes.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
Here are a few personal tips I’ve learned after several visits:
- Pack smart: If you’re visiting during the dry months, light and breathable clothes are your best friends. For the rainy season, don’t forget a compact raincoat or umbrella, showers can come suddenly but usually don’t last long.
- Plan your timing: Try heading out early in the morning or around sunset to enjoy the cool breeze and fewer crowds. Midday heat can be intense, so it’s the perfect time for a café break or a quick nap.
- For families: February to April offers the most pleasant weather, sunny but not too hot, perfect for kids to enjoy outdoor activities.
- For photographers: March is magical. The light is soft, the air is clear, and every corner of Hoi An feels like a painting.
- For couples: Don’t miss the romantic sunsets in June. Sitting by the river, watching the lanterns start to glow, it’s a memory that stays with you.
Hoi An is very walkable, so pack comfortable shoes. Also, try local dishes like Cao Lau or Mi Quang, they taste best after a long walk around town.
Where to Stay in Hoi An by Season
- Bel Marina Hoi An Resort (5 stars): Perfect for luxury stays with riverside views.
- Hoi An Golden Holiday Hotel & Spa (4 stars): Great balance between comfort and price.
- Long Life Riverside Hotel (3 stars): A cozy stay near the Old Town, ideal during rainy days.
If you visit from February to July, book early, hotels fill up quickly during this peak travel time.
Each season in Hoi An tells a different story. Whether you love sunny beach days or quiet rainy evenings, this town always has something to offer.
Whenever I return, I find a new reason to fall in love with it again, from the golden light over the river to the warm smiles of locals. So pack your bags, check the weather, and let Hoi An surprise you in its own charming way.