An exceptionally well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th century, Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with abundant culture and history. From exploring the vibrant local markets to taking an evening boat ride along the Thu Bon River, plenty of fun activities await you in this month-by-month guide to Hoi An. Whether you discover the vibrant Hoi An Night Market, learn how to make Vietnamese coffee, or explore the nearby rice paddies and quiet villages, this is everything you need to know about the best time to visit Hoi An.
Choosing the best time to go to Hoi An
Best time for outdoor lovers
February to June bring warm, dry conditions, making this the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Temperatures are milder from February to April, so if you want to avoid overheating, these months will be ideal.
Best time for people on a budget
If you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind compromising on the weather, September to November is the perfect time to visit Hoi An. This is the height of the city’s rainy season, meaning it’s much quieter, and the demand for accommodation is much lower.
Best time for sightseeing
If you want to do some sightseeing, visiting Hoi An during the dry season is best. Anytime between December and June will bring optimum conditions for exploring the city’s top sights.
Hoi An throughout the seasons
Spring in Hoi An
March to May
Spring in Hoi An is dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from 71.6 F to 87.8 F (22 C to 31 C). In March, the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival is held at Hoai River Square, where guests can float above the city in colorful hot-air balloons and get a stunning birds-eye view of the landscapes below.
Summer in Hoi An
June to August
Hoi An summers are hot and humid, with temperatures rising to 95 F (35 C). Although the city remains mostly dry, the rainy season begins in August. June brings one of the city's most spectacular cultural festivals: the annual Thu Bon River Worshiping Festival, which sees locals making offerings and paying tribute to the river.
Fall in Hoi An
September to November
September to November are the wettest months in the region, so if you plan to visit Hoi An during fall, pack your waterproofs. Still, wet conditions mean fewer tourists visit the city during these months, making it the ideal time to enjoy a less crowded experience.
Winter in Hoi An
December to February
Winter in the city brings mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it a great time to visit Hoi An and do some sightseeing. Many vibrant cultural events occur in December and January, including art performances, street music events, and lantern festivals on the Hoai River.
Tet Dong Chi celebrates the Winter Solstice, with locals partaking in various customs and rituals, such as decorating their homes, bringing offerings to ancestors, and cooking traditional meals. Tet Nguyen Dan, one of the city’s most significant festivals, welcomes the Lunar New Year with fireworks, street markets, traditional music, boat races, and games.