Vietnam in March: Your Guide to Weather, Sights, and Practical Advice
A popular destination in Asia, a symbol of natural landscapes and the discovery of a rich cultural heritage, Vietnam is undoubtedly a dream come true. You are tired of winter; fly to this magnificent destination! But do you know what to do in Vietnam in March? Here in this article is information on the weather in Vietnam in March, the sites to visit as well as practical advice that will help you make your trip to Vietnam successful at this time.
Written by Thom DOAN (Travel Consultant)
Updated on Feb 10, 2025
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Thom DOAN, a multilingual expert fluent in French and English, is a distinguished travel consultant at Kampá Tour. With an illustrious career spanning multiple countries in Asia, Thom brings a wealth of global insights and profound terrain knowledge. Her deep-rooted passion for exploring diverse cultures and landscapes enriches her professional acumen, which she eagerly shares through her compelling articles on this blog. For any inquiries or to gain further insights, please don't hesitate to pose your questions in the comments section of this article, where Thom will directly engage and provide her expert advice.
The month of March is one of the good times to visit Vietnam. From a weather point of view, this month corresponds to the transition from winter to spring in the north (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Halong Bay on land), it is no longer cold. The temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees. At this time, the mountainous region (Sapa, Bac Ha, Ha Giang, Cao Bang...) experiences cooler weather with mist, morning drizzle, but without risk of rain. If you visit northern Vietnam, you will need warm clothes and a waterproof jacket.
The mountains of northern Vietnam are home to extremely wild and breathtaking landscapes
In this season, the climate will also allow you to enjoy beautiful sunshine with a pleasant temperature between 25-30 degrees in the central region (Hue, Hoi An & Da Nang).
In the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island), it is the dry season, it is a little hot with sunshine and the temperature varies from 30 to 35 degrees. Impossible in these conditions to resist a walk on the beach, or a swimming or snorkeling session on the south coast. So bring sunscreen to help your trip during this period.
It's cool with mist on the Yen stream near Hanoi
Best Destinations to Visit in Northern Vietnam
March is obviously the best time to visit the country. If you are unsure about which sites to visit in Vietnam in March, here is a list of the best destinations that will help you make the most of the charming beauty of the Land of the Dragon.
The capital of Hanoi
Hanoi, the country's capital, is considered the starting point for a trip to Vietnam. No one can deny its authentic charm and its unusual contrasts! In March, Hanoi wakes up after a long hibernation. Hanoians like to feel the arrival of spring through beautiful flowers sold by street vendors. If you come to Hanoi during these days, you will have the opportunity to deeply feel and experience this old city.
A charming corner in Hanoi's Old Quarter
Let yourself be charmed by the scene sometimes embroidered by the white of the "sưa" flowers and grapefruit, sometimes by the purple of the orchid tree (hoa ban) sometimes by the red of the cotton tree (hoa gao). What could be better than taking walks in the flowery and captivating streets while discovering the must-see sites and the daily life of the inhabitants.
Street flower sellers on a Hanoi street in March
Particularly, visiting the capital of Vietnam in February and March will also allow you to attend the festivals highlighting the cultural richness with numerous festivals after Tet. The Perfume Pagoda Festival on the outskirts of Hanoi, for example, is an ideal event to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.
The northern mountains
Located on the Laotian and Chinese borders of the country, the mountains of Northern Vietnam (Nghia Lo, Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, Bac Ha, Ha Giang, Cao Bang), are home to extremely wild and breathtaking landscapes: limestone peaks and gigantic hills as far as we can see. view, green valleys with magnificent rice terraces, small winding roads on the sides of the mountains. It is also the only region where the culture of minority ethnic groups remains strongly present: traditional villages, original customs and colorful clothes, lively weekly markets... The region remains a must for all fans of nature and ethnic culture. and trips off the beaten track…
The mountains of Northern Vietnam are home to extremely wild and breathtaking landscapes
This region in March is covered with a carpet of white mist which gently embraces the mountains and small roads. When the sun rises, the fog and the sun chase each other to the end of the horizon. All become alive and glowing after coming out of the fog. The spring month par excellence, March allows flowers to bloom in many cities such as Moc Chau, Sapa and Bac Ha. The northwest region is embellished by colorful flowers: peach, plum, azaleas and orchid flowers. What striking beauty!
Children of the H'Mong ethnic group play in a plum garden in Bac Ha
Ninh Binh (otherwise called The Terrestrial Halong Bay) promises lots of interesting things to visit and do. Located a 2-hour drive from Halong Bay, this magnificent region is made up of mountains covered in lush vegetation all year round.
Ninh Binh - The Terrestrial Halong Bay
It is also one of the typical places of any trip to Vietnam. It is in this region that you will have the opportunity to take picturesque boat trips on the lakes and rivers surrounded by limestone rocks, rice fields... a number of our clients testify that the land bay is as grandiose as the maritime bay.
Must-See Destinations in Central Vietnam
Hue – Vietnam’s Former Imperial Capital
March is one of the best months of the year to visit central Vietnam's World Heritage sites like the ancient imperial capital of Hue and Hoi An Old Town. Temperatures in March are pleasant. It's neither too hot nor too cold and humid during the day. The sun shines almost all the time and it hardly rains.
The imperial city of Hue, places of work & residence of the Nguyen kings
Hue, the former imperial capital : Hue being the last imperial capital of Vietnam (1802 -1945) is home to numerous cultural-historical monuments linked to feudal dynasties: citadels, palaces, tombs, temples and pagodas. A boat trip on the Perfume River to discover the imperial mausoleums, temples and pagodas will undoubtedly appeal to tourists looking for Vietnamese culture and history. Hue is also known as the “conical hat capital” with artisanal villages (conical hats, incense, etc.) and traditional villages with garden houses on the outskirts of the city.
Most spring festivals also take place during this time of year which invites visitors from all over the world to discover the unique heritage of Vietnam's ancient imperial city. Elaborate shows are staged at historic locations around the city. You will be able to attend cultural shows, spring markets, traditional music concerts and royal ceremonies.
An ancient port city from the 16th century. An old town, inherited from a once bustling port city from the 15th to the 19th centuries in Southeast Asia. Hoi An Old Town enchants visitors with its endearing beauty, with architecture and decor that represent the harmony between Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French cultures.
A small street in Hoi An old town
This is one of the places where most travelers choose to go, an old quarter filled with history, century-old houses, and a number of little traditional shops selling silk and lanterns. It is ideal for long walks and self-discovery. The city also attracts visitors with its quiet countryside and its beautiful beaches along the eastern sea.
Hoi An Old Town
My Son Shrine
My Son Sanctuary, about 70 km southwest of Da Nang and 45 km west of Hoi An, is an incredible archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indeed, it testifies to the grandeur of the Cham civilization, which thrived between the 4th and 13th centuries, revealing the Hindu influence on Vietnamese culture. With its brick and stone ruins, My Son is nestled amid a natural landscape; thus, it is perfect for combining with a trip to Hoi An or Da Nang. Learn more: My Son Sanctuary.
My Son Shrine
Beautiful Places to Visit in the South
The Southern Highlands
There lie the Highlands behind the southern half of the country, between Cambodia and the coastline of the China Sea, elevated and temperate. The land is known as the land of elephants. It is also famous for its coffee, tea, and rubber plantations.
With local traditional festivals, this part of March springs to life. It ensures the celebration of very significant events, such as the Absence of the Tomb and the Cult of the Fountain Genie. Just before the event, repairs and cleaning are done by local townsfolk at the fountains and the town hall.
Ethnic groups hold the rice festival to pay homage to the genius of rice - Photo: Duong Giang
Ho Chi Minh City – The Southern Capital
Previously referred to as "the Pearl of the Far East," Ho Chi Minh City is a city to explore in Vietnam. The ancient yet dynamic city has a distinct character to it. If Hanoi brings to mind the placid image of a thousand-year-old capital of history, Ho Chi Minh City presents such a rhythm between the West and the East: lively yet harmonious.
The month of March in Ho Chi Minh City is undoubtedly the best time for a visit to savor just the right kind of atmosphere without any threat of rain. It is time to discover the significant points of interest in the city: the Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market—as well as their surroundings, like the Cu Chi Tunnels.
In the far south of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is an ideal world for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Mekong Delta is loved for its fascinating river trade, astonishing coconut production and strong presence of Khmer culture.
This half-land, half-aquatic region is a recommended destination during your trip to Vietnam in March. When you arrive there, you will have the opportunity to discover a green and peaceful land, where canals, arroyos, coconut trees, rice fields, houses, floating markets and orchards mingle.
Discovery of the Mekong Delta with Kampá Tour in the dry season - Catherine Décréau and her friends
With a pleasant temperature in the air and in the water, the south of Vietnam is a true paradise for a relaxing holiday in a dream setting in March. When you're wondering what to do in southern Vietnam in March, put exploring its idyllic beaches at the top of your list.
Doc Let Beach (Nha Trang)
Ranked in the list of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia, Nha Trang - the tropical paradise of Vietnam - never ceases to caress the soul of travelers with its stretches of white sand, its clear water, its mild atmosphere and its beautiful March sunshine. In addition to the great natural treasure, you will certainly be captivated by numerous nautical, artistic and cultural activities. After moments of rest or swimming, you can practice interesting water sports such as jet skiing, diving, snorkeling...
Mui Ne - the kitesurfing capital of southern Vietnam
Another famous and charming resort town in southern Vietnam, Mui Ne captivates travelers with its endless beaches, emerald water and red and yellow sand dunes resembling the Sahara desert next to the sea. Travel to Mui Done in March, it's the opportunity to discover two different types of landscapes in a few walks. You can explore the sand dunes on foot. On the other side, you can have a great time swimming or kitesurfing - a unique sporting activity in this seaside town.
Phu Quoc Island - Photo: Quang Vinh Nguyen
If you are looking for a mythical island on your trip to Vietnam in March, don't miss the island of Phu Quoc , the emerald pearl of Vietnam. In March, the sky and the sea intertwine creating a sublime landscape. Boasting clear turquoise water, spectacular sunsets, a lush tropical forest and, above all, stretches of white sand, the island of Phu Quoc is a perfect place to escape from everyday life and recharge your batteries.
Which Countries Can You Combine with Vietnam in March?
For Southeast Asia at large, March is perhaps one of the best months, and there is even more: it is beautiful in neighboring countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand. You can also choose to go for combo tours, as these countries share borders and can easily be accessed by land, by river, or by air, optimizing your trip from France to Asia.
You may even take a speedboat ferry from An Giang in the Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh in Cambodia or head north to Laos. Alternatively, there are many cheap flights to Thailand. Its scenery of islands and internationally renowned beaches is one you will definitely want to experience.
For details, kindly read our travelers' travel stories:
Despite the meteorological difference between these 3 regions, March is considered a good season to discover Vietnam thanks to its temperate climate and pleasant temperature. If you're having trouble choosing which destination to visit during this time, take your pick from our list and start your trip!
>>> See more about things to do in Vietnam by month:
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