Vietnam Weather in November

By studying the weather in Vietnam in November, you can see how the country's landscape changes as it enters the dry season. With moderate temperatures and reduced rainfall, this month presents an ideal climate for exploring the country's fascinating sites and cultural treasures.

Vietnam in November at a glance

November is when the weather starts to shift across Vietnam

• Daytime temperatures usually range from 66 to 86°F (19 to 30°C), cooler in the north and warmer in the south.
• November falls in the shoulder season, so you’ll find fewer crowds than in December, and prices are still relatively moderate.
• In most of the country, November is the start of the dry season.
   

What is the weather like in Vietnam in November?

November is a good month for a trip in Vietnam, with clearer skies and drier conditions starting to set in across the country. The shift from the wet season to the dry season is well underway, making it easier to get around and enjoy time outdoors.

In the north, places like Hanoi and Halong Bay usually see the rain taper off. Days tend to be dry and mild, which is ideal for walking around the city or cruising through the bay. 

Central Vietnam, including Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An, often sees the last of the heavy rains this month. Humidity drops, and while the weather can still be a bit unpredictable early on, conditions usually improve as the month goes on.

In the south, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, November marks the return of sunnier days. Rain is much less frequent, and it's a comfortable time to explore markets, villages, and river landscapes.

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Average daily temperatures in November

In November in Vietnam you’re moving into the dry season in the north and a transitional phase elsewhere, which means more stable weather and moderate temperatures. In the north (e.g., Hanoi) daily highs average around 77 °F (25 °C) and nighttime lows about 66 °F (19 °C). In central areas (for example, Hoi An or Da Nang) you’ll typically see daytime temperatures of 82 °F (28 °C) and nights drop to roughly 72 °F (22 °C).

But how to plan a trip to Vietnam best during this time of year? Compared with the peak summer months (when highs exceed 90 °F or 32 °C and humidity is high), this is noticeably cooler and more comfortable. On the coast southwards (e.g., Phu Quoc) it stays warm but begins the shift toward the drier season. 

Sea temperatures are inviting: in central Vietnam you’ll find waters around 79 °F (26 °C) in November. In places like Phu Quoc, it can reach ~84 °F (29 °C) at peak. That means swimming is very comfortable.

Daylight hours are about 11 to 12 hours in November in most regions. For example, in one coastal location the day-length ranged from 11 h 39 m to about 11 h 24 m. 

Is November a good time to visit Vietnam?

November is easily one of the best times to visit Vietnam, with good weather in most parts of the country. It’s the start of the dry season in many regions, so you’ll get warm days and clearer skies, especially in the south.

Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, starts to cool down a bit, but the air is fresh, and it’s still comfortable for walking around the Old Quarter or taking a boat trip through the bay. Central Vietnam can be a bit unpredictable in early November, with lingering rain from the tail end of typhoon season. But by mid- to late month, places like Hoi An and Hue usually start drying out.

Down south, around Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the weather is reliably warm and not too humid, making it easy to explore. Beach destinations like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang are also in good shape by this time of year. If you’re planning to travel across the whole country, November gives you a nice window before the December crowds arrive.

Why November is a good time to visit:

• Drier weather with comfortable temperatures and decreased humidity
• Pleasant conditions at beach destinations like Da Nang and Phu Quoc
• Calm seas and warm water temperatures for beach activities
• Lush green countryside and colorful vegetation
• Ideal for trekking, cycling, and exploring national parks

What about crowds and costs?

By November, the high season is getting underway, so you’ll notice more travelers around and a bump in prices. Flights and hotels tend to cost about 20 to 30 percent more than in the quieter months. Places like Ha Long Bay and beach towns in the south can start to feel a bit crowded, especially later in the month. That said, it's still a great time to plan for your Vietnam itinerary.

If you’re looking for similar weather but fewer people, September or early October can be a good alternative. Northern Vietnam is usually dry around that time, and crowds are still fairly light. On the other hand, December and January bring great weather in the south but also the highest prices and the biggest crowds, especially around the vacations. For lower prices and fewer tourists, you could consider traveling between May and August, though be prepared for heat, humidity, or rain depending on the region.
 

Where to go in Vietnam in November

November is one of the easiest months to travel across Vietnam. The rain has mostly cleared out, temperatures are cooler, and you can move around the country without much hassle. Here are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam in November.

Hanoi

This is a great month to be in Hanoi. The heat backs off, and most days sit comfortably in the 70s Fahrenheit. That means you can really enjoy walking around the Old Quarter, stopping for street food or sitting outside with a bia hoi. It’s a good time to see some of the city's bigger sites too: Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, or the quieter pagodas tucked into residential streets. Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful spot to take a break, and the weekend walking streets are full of local families. The cooler weather also makes the city’s famous coffee culture even better. 

Ha Long Bay

This is one of the calmest times of year on Ha Long Bay. Skies are usually clear, the air feels fresh, and the water is smooth- good news if you’re planning a cruise. It’s still warm enough to kayak, sit on the deck, or go for a swim, but without the humidity of summer. Overnight trips feel peaceful, with misty mornings and quiet anchorages. There are also fewer boats around, so you’re more likely to get a relaxed experience when visiting caves or floating villages. If you want something a little less busy, consider Lan Ha Bay or staying on Cat Ba Island for some trekking or climbing.

Hoi An

Hoi An starts to dry out in November after the flood season, and the weather feels mild and pleasant. It’s a good time to wander the old town without rushing between shelter or sweating through your shirt. The lantern festival around the full moon is especially nice this time of year, with soft weather and fewer crowds than peak season. It’s also a good time to book a tailor. Many stores are still working at a steady pace before the vacation rush begins. You can bike out to the beach or through the rice fields.
 

What to do in Vietnam in November

November is a great time to explore Vietnam, with cooler, drier weather across most of the country. It’s a comfortable month for being outdoors, whether you're trekking in the north or relaxing by the beach in the south. Here are some of the best things to do in Vietnam in November.

Trek in Sapa

November is one of the best months for trekking around Sapa. The rice harvest has just ended, so the terraces glow gold before winter sets in. Trails are drier and easier to walk, and the air feels crisp but not cold. Local guides from ethnic minority communities like the H'mong, Dao, and Tay often lead small groups through the valleys. If you stay in a village homestay, you’ll likely share meals cooked over a fire and sip rice wine in the evening. The markets are lively too, full of embroidered textiles and fresh produce. 

Take a street food tour

Cooler evenings in November make it easier to dive into Vietnam’s street food culture without breaking a sweat. You’ll see sidewalks full of locals on low stools, slurping noodles or grabbing a quick bite. In Hanoi, certain streets are known for just one dish, changing as you move from block to block. Down in Ho Chi Minh City, night markets mix food with live music and local shopping. Guided tours can be helpful if you're not sure what’s what or how to order.  

Cruise the Mekong Delta

November is a good time to head south to the Mekong Delta. Water levels are still high enough for smooth boat travel, and the weather is warm but not too humid. Floating markets like Cai Rang are at their busiest early in the morning, with vendors selling piles of fresh produce straight off their boats. You can cycle through nearby villages, visit orchards, or stay the night in a simple homestay on a river island. Some families still make things like rice paper or coconut candy by hand, and you can often watch the process up close. Fruit is in season, fish are plentiful, and the pace of life on the river gives a different view of Vietnam. 
 

Plan your trip with our Vietnam itineraries

Our Vietnam itineraries are designed to make planning easier. They give you a useful starting point, with routes that can be adjusted to match your pace and interests. Think of them as a guide, not a rulebook. A bit of planning helps things run smoother, but there’s still plenty of room to explore on your own terms.

• Vietnam itinerary 5 days: Ideal for a short break or stopover. Focus on one region like Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, or Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.
• Vietnam itinerary 7 days: A quick trip to experience Vietnam’s highlights. Expect an introduction to the country’s vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful scenery.
• Vietnam itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you explore multiple regions, giving a good balance of city life, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences.
• Vietnam itinerary 14 days: With two weeks, you’ll have time to go beyond the basics, discovering a wider range of landscapes and local traditions.