Five Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam for Winter Travels

Winter in Vietnam is full of exciting experiences, from the cool mountain retreats in the north to the sunny beaches in the south. Whether you love stunning views, want to learn about local culture, or simply need a relaxing holiday, Vietnam has it all. Here are five amazing places to visit in Vietnam for a perfect winter trip.

Sapa - The Town of Clouds

Winter in Sapa lasts from late November to early April, with average temperatures hovering around 17°C during this period. On colder days, the temperature can drop as low as 0°C, and often bring frost and snow. There are days when Sapa transforms into a stunning white wonderland, blanketed in snow. A place not to be missed to "hunt" for snow in Sapa is O Quy Ho peak covered in white snow on cold winter days.

Winter in Sapa lasts from late November to early April. Source: KKday

Visiting Sapa during this time, you can witness mountain ranges "sleeping" in the mist and peaceful villages nestled in the distant valleys.

When coming to Sapa, you can visit famous places such as Cat Cat village, Sapa Heaven Gate, Ta Phin village, Ham Rong mountain,...

Sapa Heaven Gate. Source: Sapa Nomad

Ha Giang - The Vietnam’s Northern Frontier 

Ha Giang is approximately 300 kilometers from Hanoi, and the journey takes around 6-7 hours by car or bus. Winter is when the cold air sweeps across the northern regions, and Ha Giang is no exception. Winter here typically lasts from December to February, with temperatures dropping to as low as 8-13°C.

When visiting Ha Giang, make sure not to miss iconic destinations like the Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ha Giang Old Quarter, Sung La Valley, or the Nho Que River. In winter, don’t forget to watch the sunrise over the fields of blooming buckwheat flowers and admire the golden terraced rice fields – a truly unforgettable experience.

Nho Que River. Source: Vnexpress

Hanoi – A Cozy Winter in the Capital

Winter weather in Hanoi is characteristic of a tropical monsoon climate, bringing cold, dry air and frequent drizzles. Occasionally, the northeast monsoon sweeps through, adding to the chill. However, there are also gentle sunny days that break through the gloom, adding a touch of warmth and brightness to the season.

Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, explore the Old Quarter, and savor the warmth of a bowl of steaming pho or bun cha at a street-side eatery. The city comes alive with its festive decorations during the Lunar New Year season, making it a fantastic spot for cultural immersion. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee to keep warm on chilly mornings.

 Hoan Kiem Lake. Source: Truyen hinh Ha Noi

Da Lat – The City of Eternal Spring

Dalat is often called the "city of eternal spring" with a cool climate all year round. In winter, Dalat becomes more romantic with fog and blooming flowers.

The end of the year is also the time when Da Lat organizes the Flower Festival, where all the quintessence of nature is displayed under the skillful hands of artisans. Visitors can visit flower exhibitions, participate in tea and coffee festivals and enjoy delicious fresh fruits and vegetables. 

In the cool air, camping on the hill, enjoying a cup of hot coffee and admiring the ancient city of Dalat from afar will probably be an unforgettable experience for tourists when coming to Dalat city.

Some of the most prominent tourist attractions in Da Lat include the Valley of Love, Lam Vien Square, the Clay Village, Da Lat Night Market, the Chicken Church, the Pedagogical College, LangBiang Mountain, Tuyet Tinh Coc,...

The Dalat Valley of Love. Source: Wikipedia

Phu Quoc – A Sunny Winter Escape

If you're looking for a winter getaway with plenty of sunshine and warmth, Phu Quoc is the perfect destination you can't miss. This tropical paradise is a popular resort spot for both domestic and international travelers, offering stunning beaches, peaceful streams, and beautiful landscapes.

Phu Quoc is home to many beautiful streams, such as Tien Stream, Hang Stream, and Da Ban Stream. Among them, Tranh Stream stands out, stretching over 15 km and winding through rocky rapids, creating a breathtaking scene amid the lush mountains.

Besides, Phu Quoc is also a seafood paradise for those who are passionate about coastal cuisine.

Phu Quoc is the perfect destination you can't miss. Source: Traveloka

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Tips for winter travels in Vietnam

• In addition to equipping warm clothes when traveling in the cold season, you should also bring some necessary items that can be useful for your trip such as shoe bags, thermos bottles, umbrellas and raincoats
• Traveling in the cold season, you may encounter drizzle or get cold from fog in the highlands. Therefore, in addition to equipping extra raincoats, you should bring 2-3 extra sets of clothes to change, to avoid getting cold due to damp clothes.
• The winter air, especially in the north, can be quite dry. Be sure to stay hydrated, moisturize your skin, and bring any necessary medications. You may also want to carry a small first-aid kit for minor issues such as colds or headaches.
• Vietnam's weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous regions like Sapa. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and stay updated during your travels so you can prepare for any unexpected changes, like sudden rain or cold spells.

Vietnam's weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous regions like Sapa. Source: Thanh Thanh Tours

Conclusion

Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and climates make it an incredible destination for winter travels. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the sunny shores of Phu Quoc, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty and culture of Vietnam this winter-you won’t be disappointed !

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