Hanoi Weather

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam,  is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Vietnam, offering visitors many exciting experiences. Plan a trip to Hanoi, choosing the appropriate travel time becomes one of the crucial factors to consider. This article provides you some brief information about Hanoi weather, seasons in Hanoi, best months to visit Hanoi and things you need to know when visiting this busy, exciting capital city.

1. Hanoi weather & seasons

Sen & Baby flowers shows their beauty in the summer

Hanoi experiences a temperature range of approximately 6°C to 38°C. The average temperature in Hanoi is 23.6°C (76.7°F).

Overview of weather and climate in Hanoi: 

• Average temperature: 23.6 °C (74.5 °F), varies by season.
• Average humidity: 82%, varies by season.
• Average rainfall: 1,611 mm (63.4 inches), varies by season.
• Average sunshine duration: 1,585 hours per year, varies by season
• Average wind speed: not available.
• Rainy Season: June to September, influenced by the southwest monsoon.
• Hot Season: May to September, with high temperatures and humidity.
• Cool Season: November to March, influenced by the northeast monsoon.
• Monsoon season: also known as the wet season, typically runs from May to early October.

Representing the typical weather of tropical monsoon type in Northern Vietnam, Hanoi has the hot summer with high rainfall and the dry cold winter. The city also receives a large amount of sunlight and a relatively high humidity all throughout the year. Although the weather is divided into two main seasons: rainy season (from May to late September), and dry season (from October to April), thanks to transition months, Hanoi still experiences all four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.

1.1. Hanoi weather by months

Hanoi has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Here’s a table showing the average temperature and rainfall by month in Hanoi:

• Weather in January

Colorful Old quarter of Hanoi in Jan when people prepare for coming TET

This is the coldest month with an average high-temperature of 19.3°C (66.7°F) and an average low-temperature of 13.7°C (56.7°F).
This month covers the average relative humidity in Hanoi is at 78%, and with the least rainfall when the rain falls for 8.4 days and typically collects 18.6mm (0.7″) of precipitation.

• Weather in February

Peach blossom in Nhat Tan, Hanoi in Feb

The average temperature of February varies between 15°C (59°F) and 19.9°C (67.8°F) with the average relative humidity of 82%.
The rain in February falls for 11.3 days. Throughout the month, 26.2mm (1″) of precipitation is accumulated.

• Weather in March

Hanoi in March

This is a pleasant month in Hanoi, with average temperature varying between 18.1°C (64.6°F) and 22.8°C (73°F).
The average relative humidity of 83% becomes one of the most humid months in Hanoi.
The rainfall days of the months last 15 days and 43.8mm (1.7″) of precipitation is typically accumulated.

• Weather in April

Plenty of white lily selling in Hanoi each April

April is a moderately hot month in Hanoi, with average temperature varying between 27°C (80.6°F) and 21.4°C (70.5°F).
Same as March, April is the most humid month with an average relative humidity of 83%.

• Weather in May

Season of lotus flower at West lake- Hanoi

May is a tropical month, with average temperature ranging between min 20°C (75.7°F) and max 41.5°C (88.7°F).
The average relative humidity of the month is 77%.
The rainfall is for 14.2 days, with typically 188.5mm (7.4″) of accumulated precipitation.

• Weather in June

Road is shaded with purple Lagerstroemia

June is still a tropical month, with temperature in the range of an average high of 32.6°C (90.7°F) and an average low of 25.8°C (78.4°F).
In June, the average relative humidity is 78%.
During the month, the rain falls for 14.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 239.9mm (9.4″) of precipitation.

• Weather in July

Unpredictable rain in July in Hanoi

July, like June, is a hot month in Hanoi, with average temperature varying between 26.1°C (79°F) and 32.9°C (91.2°F).
The average relative humidity in Hanoi is 79%.
During 15.7 rainfall days of the month, 288.2mm (11.3″) of precipitation is typically accumulated.

Weather in August

Time of Mid-Autumn festival with plenty of moon cake

The average high-temperature in August is practically the same as in July – a still hot 31.9°C (89.4°F) and min 25.7°C (78.3°F).
The average relative humidity in August is 82%.
This month is with the most rainfall in Hanoi when the rain falls for 16.7 days and typically aggregates up to 318mm (12.5″) of precipitation.

• Weather in September

Couple is happy in the sunny day

Time for many wedding ( Wedding season). The best time of the year in HanoiWith the average temperature fluctuating between 24.7°C (76.5°F) and 30.9°C (87.6°F), September is still hot.
The average relative humidity in Hanoi is 79%.
In September, the rain falls for 13.7 days. Throughout September, 265.4mm (10.4″) of precipitation is accumulated.

• Weather in October

Peaceful Hoan Kiem lake

In October, the average high-temperature is better than September – a warm 28.6°C (83.5°F) and the average low-temperature is 21.9°C (71.4°F).
The average relative humidity in Hanoi is 75%.
it is raining for 9 days, with typically 130.7mm (5.1″) of accumulated precipitation.

• Weather in November

Milk flower in Hanoi in November

The average high-temperature of November marginally drops, varying between 18.5°C (65.3°F) and 25.2°C (77.4°F).
This is the least humid month in Hanoi, with an average relative humidity of 74%.
During the month, the rain falls for 6.5 days, with typically 43.4mm (1.7″) of accumulated precipitation.

• Weather in December

Saint Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi

The first month of the winter, December, is also an agreeable month in Hanoi, with average temperature ranging between min 15.3°C (59.5°F) and max 21.8°C (71.2°F).
The average relative humidity is 75%.
The rainfall will be for 6 days, with typically 23.4mm (0.9″) of accumulated precipitation.
December has the shortest days of the year in Hanoi, with an average of 10.9h of daylight.

1.2. Four seasons in Hanoi

• Spring

Tet comes with traditional dress (ao dai) and fresh peach branch

Lasting from February to April, Hanoi’s spring is humid and wet with drizzles. As this kind of weather is suitable for the plants to grow and flowers to blossom, spring will be the best time for tourists to witness the vitality of tropical nature. Spring is also the time for Tet holiday- the most essential and longest Vietnamese festival of the year.

• Summer

Beautiful day at Tran Quoc pagoda

Hanoi’s summer is very hot, lasting from May to August (July is the hottest month). Since global warming has become a more and more serious problem, some summers are dry while others may be extremely wet with high humidity. Heavy rain is one feature of Hanoi’s summer, so don’t forget to bring a raincoat or an umbrella with you whenever leaving home. Moreover, be ready to be sweat under the sun during the day and a thunderstorm in the afternoon or evening!

• Fall (Autumn)

Autumn in Vietnam

Fall is considered the most beautiful and romantic time for travelers to visit Hanoi. This season is quite short, typically from middle of September to the end of November. With the average temperature is 25degree, Hanoi’s autumn is charming with warm sunlight, cool breeze and dry atmosphere. If you love seeing the leaves change color, enjoying some local autumn specialties such as young green rice, living slowly for a to appreciate the beauty of your life, you definitely should come to Hanoi in autumn.

• Winter

Relaxing by the lake to see sunrise/sunset

The cold weather of Hanoi will start from December and may last until late February, with the average temperature of 17degree. However, sometimes it may drop to below 10degree, and the high humidity will lend a hand in making the weather bitter cold. Bring some serious warm clothes is necessary, if you do not want to get a cold when visiting a tropical country! Hanoi’s winter is also famous for many delicious street foods which can warm you up in a chilly day.

2. When is the best time to visit Hanoi?

Bustling & colorful city of Hanoi by night

February to April and late August to December are considered the best times to visit Hanoi due to the delightful weather conditions. During these periods, the city experiences pleasant temperatures, minimal rainfall, and crisp, clear blue sky, creating an ideal environment for exploration and outdoor activities. This timeframe also coincides with several noteworthy events and celebrations in Hanoi, including the vibrant Hanoi autumn, the festive Lunar New Year, and the commemoration of National Day. Visitors during these times can fully immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage and partake in a myriad of exciting experiences that Hanoi has to offer.

In summary, there really is no worst time to visit Hanoi. Be warned that the cold months can be a bit depressing, and if you hate the heat, June through to August cannot suit well. Other than that, pack and plan appropriately and don’t let the weather spoil your visit.

3. What to pack?

• Sturdy walking shoes that are waterproof or can dry quickly
• A few bags to waterproof maps and money
• Small grocery bags can make great shoe liners if you plan to travel during the rainy season
• Quick-dry clothing will help remove moisture from your body and will wash and dry quickly on the road.
• An umbrella, when you arrive in Hanoi, no matter what time of year you travel. Umbrellas are great for sun protection as well as for the frequent rain showers.
• Warm clothes, shoes for cold weather & light sweater, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen for hot weather.

4. What to do in Hanoi?

Nightlife of Hanoi at Bia Hoi Junction in Old Quarter

Exploring Hanoi is like stepping into a mosaic of cultural richness and historical intrigue. The city is a delightful blend of East and West, tradition and modernity. Let’s delve into this captivating city and explore the treasure trove of things to do in Hanoi:

1. Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake: Start your day with a leisurely walk around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s the heartbeat of Hanoi, where locals practice Tai Chi in the morning mist. The lake is a tranquil oasis amidst the city’s hustle, and crossing the red bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple is a must.
2. Discover the Old Quarter: Dive into the labyrinth of streets in the Old Quarter. Each street here was traditionally dedicated to a specific trade, and today, it’s a shopper’s paradise. From silk merchants to street food vendors, the Hanoi Old Quarter is a feast for the senses. Don’t forget to grab a cup of the famous egg coffee!
3. Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to Hanoi’s history. Wander through the ancient ruins and marvel at artifacts dating back over a thousand years. The citadel’s history is as layered as the city itself, with remnants from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties.
4. Enjoy the Puppetry: Water puppetry is an art form unique to Northern Vietnam, and seeing a show at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre is enchanting. The puppets dance over water, telling tales of ancient myths and rural life. It’s a cultural experience that’s both entertaining and educational.
5. Savor the Street Food: Hanoi’s street food scene is legendary. From steaming bowls of Pho to sizzling Banh Mi, the flavors are as vibrant as the city’s streets. Join a street food tour or simply follow your nose to the nearest bustling stall. Each bite is a taste of local life.
6. Reflect at the Temple of Literature: This Confucian temple hosts the Imperial Academy, Vietnam’s first national university. It’s a place of calm and contemplation, where you can admire the well-preserved architecture and the peaceful courtyards.
7. Explore the Museums: Hanoi is home to many museums that offer insights into Vietnam’s complex history. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum are particularly poignant and provide a deeper understanding of the country’s past and diverse cultural tapestry.

In Hanoi, every corner tells a story, and every experience is a thread in the vibrant tapestry of the city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of beauty, Hanoi has something to enchant you.

Water puppet show – Vietnam Traditional art form

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