February is one of the most comfortable months to explore Hanoi — cool but not freezing, mostly dry, and refreshingly calm after the Tet holiday rush.
If you're wondering whether it's a good time to visit or what to pack, here's a complete guide based on real travel experience and local insights.
What's the Weather Like in Hanoi in February?
- Average lows to highs: 15°C (59°F) to 21°C (71°F)
- Precipitation: 12.7 mm/ 0.5 in
- Rainy days: 2.2
February marks the tail end of winter in Hanoi, with cool days and chilly mornings.
You might see a few days of light drizzle or mist, but the bigger challenge is the humidity on some days: towels dry slowly, clothes feel clammy, and camera lenses can fog up during morning outings.
Most days are overcast, with occasional sunshine breaking through. It's not beach weather, but it's perfectly fine for sightseeing if you dress in light layers.
Pro Tip: While the weather rarely disrupts travel plans in February, we recommend scheduling outdoor activities for late morning to early afternoon, when it's warmer and any morning mist has typically cleared. (See the Best Time to Visit Hanoi & more planning tips.)
Hanoi Temperature in FebruaryIs February a Good Time for You to Visit Hanoi?
Yes, especially if you like slower travel and fewer crowds. The daytime is cool and mostly dry, so you could do outdoor activities without heat exhaustion or sudden tropical storms. You also have chances to experience Vietnam's biggest festival—Tet (Vietnamese New Year) in early February.
When Tet is over, the city settles back into its usual rhythm. Hotels are easier to book, traffic is lighter, and places like the Temple of Literature or the Old Quarter feel more peaceful, without the holiday rush or big tour groups.
If you're into street photography, café-hopping, or just exploring at your own pace, February works really well. But if you want guaranteed blue skies or are sensitive to cold, damp air, skip it.
What Should I Pack and Wear in February?
This is one of the top questions we get from our travelers. The key is layering, as Hanoi can shift from chilly and damp to comfortably mild in a single day.
If you're doing a typical Hanoi itinerary with lots of walking and café stops, we recommend
- A light down jacket or warm mid-weight coat
- A scarf and windproof layer for mornings and scooter rides
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip — sidewalks can be damp and uneven
- Thin, long-sleeve tops you can peel off as the day warms up
Best Things to Do in Hanoi in February
Our February itineraries often strike a balance between historic exploration, light outdoor experiences, and seasonal day trips:
Wander through Hanoi's Old Quarter and French Quarter, where colonial facades and lakes shimmer under the soft light.
Visit iconic sites like the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison — fewer crowds make for better photos and more time to reflect.
Take a day trip to Ninh Binh or the Perfume Pagoda, where spring flowers start blooming and riverside boat rides feel almost meditative.
Optional Highlight: A Halong Bay overnight cruise. While February skies could be foggy, the moody atmosphere makes the karsts feel otherworldly. Just be sure to bring something windproof for the upper deck.
A Cyclo Ride in the Old QuarterAny Special Festivals in February?
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the major holiday, usually falling in late January or early February. If your trip overlaps with it, you'll catch glimpses of families offering incense at temples, red banners on yellow walls, and a quiet joy in the streets.
If your visit coincides with the Tet holiday, plan ahead for accommodations and major attractions, as availability may be limited during the first few days.
How's the Weather in Nearby Places Like Sapa or Halong Bay?
If Hanoi feels cool, Sapa feels cold with temps often below 10°C (50°F) and thick fog. Trekking's still possible, but slippery and damp. If you don't like hiking in cold mist, consider skipping or replacing it with warmer destinations like Mai Chau or Pu Luong.
Halong Bay in February is a bit of a weather gamble, but still rewarding. You'll see foggy mornings and mild afternoons—highs around 20°C (68°F). Rain is rare, but bring a warm layer for the boat deck.
Ready to Plan Your February Trip to Hanoi?
If you're thinking of weaving Hanoi into a longer Vietnam journey, or want to know how February compares with other months for your travel goals, our Vietnam experts are here to help. We build personalized itineraries based on what matters most to you — from weather comfort to experience flow.
Let's tailor your February trip to fit you best.
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