9 Places to Visit in Vietnam in Autumn

With its mild and refreshing weather, Autumn is the perfect time to embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam. This season spares us from the scorching heat of Summer and the frigid cold of Winter, offering gentle breezes that rustle golden leaves. As Autumn arrives in Vietnam, it is time to pack your bag and set out on a memorable journey.

Weather in Vietnam in Autumn 

Spanning from September to November, Autumn in Vietnam brings a delightful transition in weather, offering a pleasant escape from the intense summer heat. Temperatures range from a comfortable 20°C to 28°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. Rainfall decreases significantly, and the abundant sunny hours bathe the country in a warm, golden glow, enhancing the natural beauty and providing perfect conditions for sightseeing and photography.

Top 9 places to visit in Vietnam in Autumn 

Hanoi

Autumn is undeniably the finest season in Hanoi when the vibrant, millennia-old capital is cloaked in a serene and poetic ambiance. Strolling through the city’s various neighborhoods, travelers easily encounter the charming sight of blooming ‘hoa sua’ and streets lined with golden and red leaves.

As leaves softly descend, forming a colorful carpet underfoot, Hanoi unveils its hidden gems and historic sites. Whether meandering along the peaceful shores of Hoan Kiem Lake, delving into the Old Quarter, tasting the green sticky rice (cốm), or enjoying a cup of egg coffee in the Autumn breeze, every moment in Hanoi in Autumn is like a scene from a nostalgic, slow-motion film.

Halong Bay

Well-known for its stunning natural landscapes, Halong Bay offers numerous thrilling experiences in Autumn in Vietnam. During this period, the weather in Halong Bay is cool and pleasant with an average of 24.5°C. Travelers should seize the chance to embark on a cruise, exploring the unique islands and caves set in emerald-green waters. 

Don’t miss a chance to discover Tuan Chau Island, where you can try paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing, or delve into the cultural heritage at the Quang Ninh Museum. Halong Bay’s delicious cuisine including squid, snails, and bubble yogurt is also a must for food lovers.

>>> Read more: Top 7 irresistible food you must try in Vietnam

Sapa

The weather in Sapa in Autumn is exceptionally mild and cool, you might experience all four seasons in just one day, a phenomenon that feels almost mythical. Adorned with vibrant hues, the scenery exudes a sense of grandeur. What could be better than soaking in the enticing scent of freshly harvested rice and feasting your eyes on the lush mountains and forests?

Other thrilling experiences are exploring Sapa’s local markets to taste regional cuisine, shopping for local crafts, hiking to the peak of Fansipan, and attending the New Rice Festival held after the Autumn harvest to gain valuable insights into the cultures of the ethnic minorities.

Mu Cang Chai – an ideal place to visit in Vietnam in Autumn

Located about 300 km from Hanoi, Mu Cang Chai is renowned for its stunning rice-terraced landscapes, making it a not-to-be-missed destination for travelers, researchers, and photographers. The prime time to visit Mu Cang Chai is mid-September to mid-October when the rice fields turn golden and are ripe for harvest.

To fully appreciate the vibrant golden scenery, tourists should explore valleys such as Tu Le, La Pan Tan, and Khau Pha. Additionally, trekking and cycling are exciting activities you should not miss. Don’t forget to try local specialties such as roasted black pig, salmon salad, and Tu Le sticky rice for a well-rounded experience.

Ha Giang

Another must-visit destination in Autumn in Vietnam is Ha Giang, renowned for its stunning triangular buckwheat flower fields blooming vibrantly during this season. You can be impressed by the constantly shifting colors of the blooms. Initially, the flowers are white, then gradually change to light pink or purple, and eventually turn deep red at the end and develop seeds.

Visitors not only enjoy the cool climate and scenic views but also explore other attractions that showcase the traditional culture of the ethnic minority communities. Some must-visit attractions include Dong Van Town, Ha Giang Museum, Khau Vai Love Market, Mong King House, Nho Que River, and Ma Pi Leng Pass. Besides, a trip to Ha Giang would not be completed without savoring its unique dishes such as armpit pork, five-colored glutinous rice, and thang co.

Moc Chau

Situated 180 kilometers from Hanoi, Moc Chau is a top destination to visit in Vietnam during Autumn, when lots of flowers bloom among the impressive mountains. As one of the country’s largest plateaus, Moc Chau sits at around 1,050 meters above sea level, providing fresh and cool air for those seeking relaxation and a connection with nature. 

Searchngs to do in Moc Chau in Autumn? There is no shortage of things to do including exploring the pristine white mustard flower fields, marveling at the vibrant wild sunflowers and mature rice paddies, enjoying the local hot springs, and visiting traditional villages for authentic travel experiences.

>>> Read more: Travel to Vietnam – Why people love visiting this country

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is an excellent choice for a trip to Vietnam in Autumn, offering a captivating mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and rich culture. The favorable weather, characterized by less rainfall and cooler temperatures, is ideal for exploring. 

Visiting Ninh Binh during this time, tourists should take a boat tour to enjoy the scenic Tam Coc fields and caves, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to explore Vietnam history, discover the stunning Bai Dinh Pagoda and Bich Dong Pagoda, and hiking or biking in Cuc Phuong National Park. Notably, a boat trip to the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is always on the bucket list!

Ho Chi Minh City

If you are looking for a place to visit in South Vietnam in Autumn, Ho Chi Minh City is a good choice. Travelers are drawn here for its diverse cuisine, French colonial architecture, and impressive skyscrapers. The city boasts must-see attractions such as the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. 

Additionally, for those wanting to experience vibrant nightlife in Saigon, head to rooftop bars, and trendy nightclubs at Bui Vien Street. The lively atmosphere and diverse experiences will create a memorable night out for night owls.

Mekong Delta – an unmissable destination in Vietnam in Autumn

Autumn is a perfect time to explore the Mekong Delta, as it begins the floating season. The floating season in the Mekong Delta is regarded as a gift from heaven that brings tons of fish into the rice paddies and deposits alluvial silt to fertilize the next crop. This season typically lasts from July to the end of November.

You can explore the region by cruising along riverways bordered by mangroves, cycling beneath coconut palms, or staying with locals at a homestay. No matter what you experience, be ready to savor every moment. With its stunning fruit orchards, expansive rice fields, and welcoming hospitality, the Mekong Delta captures the hearts of many travelers worldwide.

Let’s plan a trip to Vietnam to immerse yourself in the poetic atmosphere of Autumn in different regions. Choose your favorite Vietnam tours and get ready for a memorable journey in the S-shape country.