Best Time to Visit Hoi An: Quick Answer
Hoi An is one of those magical places Lea and I just can’t get enough of. Living in Da Nang, we’ve lost count of how many times we’ve wandered the lantern-lit streets or chilled by the riverside.
Here’s the best time to visit, so you can make the most of this charming town:
Best Time To Visit: January to April
If there’s a sweet spot for Hoi An, it’s this. During these months, temperatures hover around 75–85°F, and the weather is perfect for all-day exploration. There’s minimal rain and humidity, and the town is busy but not overcrowded. The golden-yellow walls, colorful lanterns, and reflections on the Thu Bon River make for unreal photo ops. We always end up snapping photos, sipping coffee by the river, and getting lost in its narrow alleyways.
Summer’s Tropical Thrill: May to August
Beach lovers, this is your time! The weather is perfect for sunny beach days at An Bang and Cua Dai beaches. Hoi An comes alive with tourists, street food, and activities, but it’s also hot and humid, so don’t forget sunscreen and plenty of water. The vibe is lively, with beach days followed by mango sticky rice at the night market.
Hard Pass: September to December
We learned this the hard way. These months bring non-stop rain, typhoons, and flooding, making outdoor activities tough. Hoi An loses some of its magic during this time, and it’s just not worth the gamble.
Month-by-month Guide To Visit Hoi An
Hoi An in January
- Average Temperature: 18-22°C (64-72°F)
- Highlights: Cool, dry weather with minimal rainfall and comfortable conditions for exploring
- Festivals: Vietnamese New Year (Tết) celebrations typically occur in late January/early February
January is honestly one of the most magical months to visit this ancient town. The weather is surprisingly mild – cool enough to explore comfortably without the intense heat that dominates most of the year. Lea and I love wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage streets during this time, capturing the soft winter light on the historic yellow buildings and enjoying the crisp air.
The dry season is in full swing, perfect for outdoor activities. You’ll experience clear skies and low humidity, making it ideal for cycling through the surrounding countryside, exploring the local markets, or taking a coconut boat ride.
The temperatures are cool enough to wear light layers but warm enough to enjoy outdoor dining and evening strolls through Hoi An’s enchanting lantern-lit streets.
The Lunar New Year preparations start towards the end of the month, which adds an extra layer of cultural excitement to your visit. If you’re looking for a perfect blend of comfortable weather, cultural experiences, and photogenic landscapes, Hoi An in January is an absolute winner.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this magical destination – trust me, it’s worth every moment!
Hoi An in February
- Average Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
- Highlights: Cool, dry weather with minimal rainfall and comfortable conditions for exploring
- Festivals: Vietnamese New Year (Tết)
February is a magical time to explore Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town. The weather during this month is ideal for travelers—cool, crisp, and surprisingly comfortable. As a digital nomad who travels throughout the year, I always return to my hometown of Da Nang to celebrate Tet. During this time, I tend to spend more time in Hoi An because of its beauty in February.
February in Hoi An provides a pleasant break from Vietnam’s tropical heat, with daytime temperatures around 22°C (72°F). This weather is ideal for exploring the ancient town’s narrow streets and lantern-lined alleys and enjoying outdoor activities without summer’s humidity. Slightly cooler mornings are perfect for photography walks or cycling in the countryside.
Visiting Hoi An in February is exciting due to Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), which is celebrated this month. The town thrives with vibrant decorations, traditional celebrations, and festive energy. Local markets overflow with colorful flowers, and streets shine with red and gold. Some businesses may reduce hours during Tet, but it’s a great chance to experience authentic Vietnamese culture.
If you’re looking for a perfect blend of comfortable weather, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes, Hoi An in February is calling your name. Trust me, Lea, and I can’t recommend it enough – it’s a hidden winter paradise that will capture your heart!
Hoi An in March
- Average Temperature: 20-25°C (68-77°F)
- Highlights: Mild temperatures, low rainfall, perfect transition between winter and summer
March in Hoi An is like a gentle whisper of spring, and Lea and I absolutely love exploring this magical ancient town during this time. The weather is simply divine – not too hot, not too cold, just perfectly comfortable for wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage streets and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
The temperatures hover around a pleasant 22°C (72°F), making it ideal for outdoor adventures. During the day, you’ll enjoy warm sunshine perfect for cycling through the rice paddies or exploring the old town’s charming architecture. The humidity is relatively low compared to the upcoming summer months, so you can comfortably walk around without feeling sticky or overwhelmed.
For travelers, March is arguably the best month to visit Hoi An. The weather is cooperative, tourist crowds are manageable, and you’ll have the perfect conditions to explore everything from ancient temples to local markets.
Hoi An in April
- Average Temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F)
- Highlights: Warm, dry weather with minimal rainfall
Lea and I absolutely love Hoi An during April, and I’m excited to share why this month is basically paradise for anyone looking to explore central Vietnam.
April in Hoi An is essentially the sweet spot for perfect weather. The temperatures are wonderfully warm but not scorching, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. As a digital nomad who’s traveled extensively through Vietnam, I can confidently say this is one of the best months to visit this magical ancient town.
The dry season is in full swing, which means crystal clear skies, perfect conditions for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site, and incredible opportunities for photography. The weather makes outdoor activities absolutely stunning. You can comfortably explore the ancient town, take bicycle rides through the surrounding countryside, and enjoy outdoor dining without worrying about sudden rain showers.
The beaches near Hoi An are particularly inviting, with warm waters and comfortable temperatures perfect for swimming and water sports. (Pro tip: Bring light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen.) The sun can be intense, so staying hydrated is key.
If you’re thinking about visiting Hoi An, April is your golden ticket. Trust me, you won’t regret exploring this incredible destination during what I consider its most magical month!
Hoi An in May
- Average Temperature: 28-34°C (82-93°F)
- Highlights: Hot, sunny, and slightly humid pre-rainy season conditions
May in Hoi An is like a golden ticket for sun-seekers and adventure lovers! Hoi An transforms into a vibrant, sun-drenched paradise during this month. The weather is predominantly hot and dry, making it perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site and surrounding landscapes.
In May, you can expect gloriously sunny days with minimal rainfall. Temperatures can climb quite high, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen. The heat is intense but manageable, especially if you start your daily explorations early in the morning or later in the afternoon. I recommend carrying a light water bottle and staying hydrated – trust me, you need it!
🔆 Pro tip: Consider booking accommodations with a pool to help you cool down during the peak afternoon heat.
If you’re looking for an incredible travel experience with abundant sunshine and cultural richness, Hoi An in May is calling your name. Just be prepared for the heat, and you’ll have an unforgettable adventure!
Hoi An in June
- Average Temperature: 28-35°C (82-95°F)
- Highlights: Hot, humid, minimal rainfall, perfect beach conditions
June in Hoi An is all about golden sunshine, clear skies, and sizzling summer heat. With temperatures around 32°C (90°F), it’s perfect for beach lovers. The nearby shores are in top form—turquoise waters, soft sands, and great conditions for swimming and water sports.
Mornings are the best time to explore the Ancient Town before the heat sets in. Afternoons can bring brief, refreshing showers, but they won’t ruin your plans. June is also peak tourist season, so book your accommodation in advance.
If you’re up for more adventure, combine your trip with Da Nang to catch the Danang International Firework Festival, a spectacular event lighting up the skyline. Stay cool with a hotel pool, dress light, and don’t forget water and sunscreen.
Hoi An in July
- Average Temperature: 28-35°C (82-95°F)
- Highlights: Hot, humid, and full of sunny
July in Hoi An is like stepping into a sun-drenched postcard—hot, vibrant, and full of tropical charm. With temperatures soaring to 35°C (95°F), the heat is intense, but if you love beach weather, this is one of the best months to visit.
The Ancient Town is quieter than peak season, meaning fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations. Golden sunlight makes the yellow-painted buildings glow, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. It’s the perfect time for a sunrise bicycle tour or a sunset boat ride on the Thu Bon River.
For beach lovers, July is also one of the best months to visit Cham Island. The waters are crystal-clear, ideal for snorkeling and diving. July delivers that perfect tropical vibe, whether you’re soaking up the sun on An Bang Beach or escaping to the islands. Stay hydrated, dress light, and embrace the summer heat!
Hoi An in August
- Average Temperature: 28-35°C (82-95°F)
- Highlights: Peak summer month with hot, humid conditions and occasional tropical rainfall
August is definitely a month that requires some strategic planning if you want to travel to Hoi An. Let me break down what you can expect during this sizzling summer month.
August in Hoi An is essentially summer on steroids. The temperatures are scorching, averaging around 32°C (90°F), with humidity levels that’ll make you appreciate every breeze. While it might sound challenging, this month offers unique travel experiences if you’re prepared.
Mornings are typically sunny and perfect for early adventures like exploring the ancient town or taking photography walks. By afternoon, brief but intense tropical showers often provide a welcome cooling relief.
Despite the heat, this is an incredible time to visit Hoi An’s outdoor markets, sample fresh seafood, and experience fewer tourist crowds than during peak season.
If you’re heat-tolerant and love authentic, less-crowded travel experiences, August in Hoi An could be your perfect adventure. Just come prepared, embrace the warmth, and enjoy this magical destination!
Hoi An in September
- Average Temperature: 25-32°C (77-90°F)
- Highlights: Start of the rainy season with frequent showers and high humidity.
Lea and I have been to Hoi An in September, and while it’s always charming, the rainy season can seriously disrupt your trip. Expect frequent downpours, high humidity, and occasional flooding, especially in low-lying areas like the Old Town. Outdoor plans? Be ready for rain to change them.
Temperatures range from 25-32°C (77-90°F), but the humidity makes it feel warmer. The rain isn’t just light drizzles—it can be intense, making streets slippery and beaches unappealing. If you’re looking for sunshine and outdoor adventures, this isn’t the month to visit.
On the bright side, prices for accommodations and flights drop, and crowds thin out. If you don’t mind the rain, you can enjoy a quieter Hoi An and maybe catch the Mid-Autumn Festival.
🔆 Pro tip: Bring a rain jacket, waterproof shoes, and plan for indoor activities like cooking classes or café hopping.
Still, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Hoi An in September unless you’re comfortable with the unpredictable weather. If you want the best experience, wait for the dry season.
Hoi An in October
- Average Temperature: 24-29°C (75-84°F)
- Highlights: Heavy rainfall, high humidity, and potential flooding—October remains firmly in the rainy season.
Hoi An’s charm never fades, but October is a tough month to visit. It’s still deep in the rainy season, bringing heavy downpours, high humidity, and frequent flooding, especially in the Old Town.
Temperatures range from 24-29°C (75-84°F)—comfortable in theory, but the sticky air and constant rain make outdoor activities difficult. Rising water levels can turn lantern-lit streets into flood zones, limiting sightseeing and exploration.
October isn’t ideal for outdoor adventures, as rainstorms can be intense and unpredictable. If you do visit, stay flexible and prepare for disruptions—but for the best experience, it’s worth waiting for drier months.
Hoi An in November
- Average Temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)
- Highlights: Rainy season persists, with potential flooding; cooler temperatures.
November in Hoi An isn’t the best time to visit. It’s still in the rainy season, with frequent rain showers and high humidity, making outdoor activities challenging. The Old Town often experiences flooding, which can disrupt your plans and make getting around tricky.
Temperatures range from 22-26°C (72-79°F), which sounds pleasant, but the rain and humidity can make it feel much warmer. Additionally, November can bring storms from typhoons, making travel unpredictable.
This month is not ideal for sightseeing, as the weather can impact your experience. If you’re looking to enjoy Hoi An at its best, November may not be the month. Instead, plan your visit between February and April when the weather is drier and more comfortable.
Hoi An in December
- Average Temperature: 20-24°C (68-75°F)
- Highlights: Cooler temperatures, occasional rain, and potential for flooding in early December as the rainy season wanes.
December in Hoi An is an interesting month to visit, but let’s keep it real—it’s not all sunshine and dry skies. Lea and I have spent time in Hoi An during this month, and while the cooler temperatures are a relief, the rainy season’s impact can still linger, especially in the earlier weeks of the month.
Daytime temperatures range from 20-24°C (68-75°F), making it one of the cooler months of the year. This is great for walking around without sweating buckets, but don’t expect December to be completely dry. Rain showers, while less intense than in November, can still occur, and there’s always a chance of flooding, particularly early in the month. However, by mid to late December, the dry season starts to take hold, bringing clearer skies and more predictable weather patterns.
Hoi An’s charm shines regardless of the weather. Its lantern-lit streets and picturesque Old Town feel magical under misty skies or golden sunlight. December also brings festive touches, with Christmas celebrations and a hint of holiday cheer adding to the town’s already romantic vibe.
December in Hoi An is best for travelers who enjoy a quieter town with a mix of rain-kissed beauty and seasonal festivities. While it’s not without its challenges, it offers unique moments that make the trip worthwhile. Prepare for the occasional wet day, and you’ll still have a wonderful adventure!
Festivals in Hoi An
Tet – Vietnamese Lunar New Year
Let me tell you about Tet in Hoi An – a festival that is much more than a holiday. It’s a Vietnamese cultural heartbeat, our family’s most treasured time of year.
Imagine a place where every street comes alive with color, tradition dances with joy, and every corner tells a story of renewal and hope. That’s Tet in Hoi An, a celebration that transforms this ancient town into a living, breathing postcard of Vietnamese culture.
For us Vietnamese, Tet (Lunar New Year) isn’t just a day. It’s a week-long celebration of family, tradition, and new beginnings. In Hoi An, this means something extra special. The entire town becomes a canvas of red and gold, with intricate decorations that tell stories passed down through generations.
The streets buzz with excitement. Families dressed in their finest gather for reunions. Colorful flower markets bloom everywhere. Ancestral altars are meticulously prepared, honoring both past and present.
Lea and I always say Tet in Hoi An is like watching our entire culture come to life. It’s not just a festival—it’s a living, breathing testament to the Vietnamese spirit.
🔆 A few key moments to know:
- Typically falls between late January and mid-February
- Celebrations last for several days
- Each day has its unique traditions and significance
Hoi An’s Magical Lantern Festival
Imagine a town where time stands still and magic illuminates the night. Welcome to Hoi An’s Full Moon Lantern Festival – a mesmerizing monthly celebration that transforms this ancient Vietnamese town into a breathtaking wonderland.
On the 14th day of each lunar month, something remarkable happens. As electric lights fade, hundreds of handcrafted lanterns burst into life, painting the streets and the Thu Bon River with a kaleidoscope of colors and soft, enchanting light.
Why you should plan to see Hoi An during this time?
Because, this isn’t just a festival – it’s a visual symphony. Traditional music floats through the air, cultural performances add depth to the spectacle, and the entire town becomes a living, breathing work of art.
Best time to visit? While the festival happens monthly, the most spectacular celebrations occur during peak tourist season from February to August. These months promise the most vibrant and memorable experiences.
Quick Tips for Traveling to Hoi An
Hoi An is a city Lea and I hold close to our hearts. From its glowing lanterns to the slow rhythm of its riverside life, it’s the kind of place where work and travel blend seamlessly. Here’s how to make your trip to Hoi An unforgettable:
- Pack Smart for the Weather – The best months to visit are February to April when the weather is cool and dry. If you’re here during the rainy season (September to November), pack a rain jacket—trust me, those downpours mean business.
- Pick the Right Stay – Staying near the Ancient Town keeps you close to the action, while An Bang Beach offers a peaceful escape. For digital nomads, Hoi An also has boutique accommodations with work-friendly vibes. Check out our handpicked hotels for the perfect mix of comfort and convenience.
- Cowork, Hoi An Style – Hoi An may be small, but it’s mighty when it comes to coworking spaces. Spots like Hub Hoi An cater to nomads with reliable Wi-Fi, lush green surroundings, and community events. Prefer working in cafes? Hoi An’s riverside cafes make for inspiring workspaces with stunning views.
- Dive into Hoi An’s Food Scene – The local dishes here are next level. Don’t miss cao lau, white rose dumplings, and banh mi from the iconic Banh Mi Phuong. A cooking class can also be a fun way to learn (and taste) more!
- Experience the Lantern Festival – If you’re lucky to be in Hoi An during a full moon, don’t miss the Lantern Festival. The town lights up with lanterns floating on the river, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Explore Beyond the Ancient Town – The Ancient Town is dreamy, but don’t skip a bike ride through the rice paddies to Tra Que Village or a boat ride to the Cham Islands. You can find affordable day tours for these adventures.
- Shop Local – Hoi An’s markets are a treasure trove for custom-tailored clothes, handmade lanterns, and unique souvenirs. Bargaining is part of the fun, so don’t hesitate to negotiate politely.
- Enjoy the Slow Pace – One of the best things about Hoi An is its relaxed vibe. Take your time wandering the lantern-lit streets or sipping coffee at riverside cafes.
- Getting Around – Hoi An is best explored on foot or by bike. Rentals are cheap, and cycling around the Ancient Town or to the beach is a must-do.
- Perfect for Work-Life Balance – For digital nomads, Hoi An offers a mix of productivity and play. Start your mornings with a strong Vietnamese coffee, knock out work at a coworking space, and spend your evenings soaking in the town’s charm.
Hoi An isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re wandering its streets as a traveler or settling in as a digital nomad, it’s a place that leaves you longing to return.
