May marks the transition in Vietnam's weather: cool spring turns into hot, humid summer in the north, the dry season shifts to the wet season in the south, and warm weather becomes even hotter in the center.
Weather-wise, central Vietnam (Da Nang & Hoi An) is the best place to go with the dry yet warm-to-hot weather in May.
In the north and south, it's a shoulder season with fewer crowds and lower prices since May is the start of the rainy season. While it brings some rain, a flexible schedule makes the brief showers manageable and adds to the experience.
So, is it worth visiting Vietnam in May? If you don't mind occasional rain and some heat, it's a great time for a budget-friendly and less crowded trip.
Check out the details of the regional weather below.
Hanoi & Northern Vietnam in May: Hot & Humid
- Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang
May kicks off summer (May to September) in Northern Vietnam. With 12–14 rainy days expected, most of the rain will come in the form of short thunderstorms. Temperatures hover around 32°C (89°F) on paper, but with humidity over 80%, it can feel like 40°C (104°F) at midday.
Fortunately, areas like Sapa remain cooler, typically under 30°C (86°F). Rice planting in the northern terraces adds to the scenic beauty as farmers work the fields. Hanoi's phoenix flowers are in full bloom, turning the streets bright red—perfect for photos.
Halong Bay sees some rain, which may limit the visibility, but nothing that'll ruin a cruise. And here's a win: Cruises are 30% cheaper than peak season, so you can splurge on a smaller, more private boat.
With discounts of 20–30%, May is a smart choice for budget travelers.
What to Avoid & Travel Tips
From 12–3 PM, Hanoi feels like a sauna. Escape the heat in a museum or enjoy Vietnam's famous egg coffee in an air-conditioned café.
For Sapa, the trails can get slippery after rain, so stick to shorter and well-paved treks to avoid any risk. Fansipan's peak is often covered by thick fog, so the views might be limited.
Riding a motorbike in Ha Giang? Fog and wet roads make it extra tricky. Ninh Binh, 2 hours from Hanoi, would offer similar rural views along with karst landscapes.
Seeking the best weather? Check out the best times to travel across Vietnam.
Da Nang & Central Vietnam in May: Best Places to Go
- Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang, Dalat
If there's one part of Vietnam that's just right in May, it's the central region. Temperatures hover around 34–35°C (93–95°F), but with the ocean breeze, it feels way more comfortable than the sticky heat in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Beach lovers will appreciate the warm waters of Da Nang and Nha Trang, along with clear skies. Meanwhile, Dalat, nestled in the mountains, provides a cool retreat.
For a unique way to escape the heat, venture underground at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Camp inside Son Doong (the largest cave on Earth) or hike along Hang En, a cave with a hidden jungle pool.
What to Avoid:
Being peak season, expect crowds, especially for TikTok-popular spots like Ba Na Hills' Golden Bridge and Marble Mountains. To avoid the rush, get there early—before 9 AM or even earlier if you can.
Avoid outdoor activities in the midday heat at places like Hue's Imperial City and Hoi An's walking tours have little shade. Visit Imperial City in the early morning and see the magical lantern-lit Hoi An after 5 PM instead.
Ho Chi Minh & Southern Vietnam in May: Heat Meets Rain
- Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, Can Tho, Chau Doc
May signals the beginning of the rainy season (May to October) in the south, but it's still traveler-friendly. Typhoons are rare, and 80% of rain falls as brief afternoon and evening downpours. As one of the hottest months, the south mirrors Hanoi's sticky 34°C (93°F) heat.
To avoid the midday heat and afternoon downpours in Ho Chi Minh City, visit indoor gems like the War Remnants Museum, join a cooking class in air-conditioned kitchens, and sip coffee at colonial-era cafés.
The Mekong Delta is especially lively this time of year, with farmers planting rice and lotus flowers blooming across the waterways by late May. If you're planning a countryside bike ride or a boat tour, go in the morning before the rain starts rolling in.
What to Avoid
The Cu Chi Tunnels, a relic of the American War, get too hot and humid to crawl inside these narrow tunnels. If you want a cooler alternative, visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels in Hue.
Phu Quoc, the wettest place in the south, sees 171 mm of rainfall in May. While beach time is still possible, expect storms and rough seas. For better weather, visit Da Nang or Nha Trang. If you go to Phu Quoc, stick to the calmer eastern side, like Bai Sao Beach.
Planning a trip to Vietnam? Read further about our ultimate guide or contact us to get a customized itinerary within 24 hours!
Packing Tips for Vietnam in May
May's weather is all about heat, humidity, and occasional rain, so packing smart will make your trip much more comfortable.
- Light, breathable clothing is a must. Stick to cotton or linen to stay cool.
- A compact umbrella or rain jacket will come in handy for sudden showers in northern or southern Vietnam.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential, especially for Central Vietnam's strong sun.
- Mosquito repellent is a good idea, especially for the Mekong Delta and Sapa.
- Waterproof or quick-dry shoes are helpful, especially if you're trekking in the north.
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