The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia (weather, seasons & travel tips).
I timed my trip perfectly: clear skies over Ha Long Bay, epic trekking conditions in Sapa, and the kind of sunrise at Angkor Wat that people call once-in-a-lifetime.
When you picture Vietnam and Cambodia, you probably imagine trekking through rice paddies, exploring lantern-lit streets, or standing in awe before Angkor Wat...
But here’s the truth: none of that magic feels the same if you arrive at the wrong time of year.
On my first Southeast Asia journey, I learned that lesson fast.
I arrived in Hanoi in early February and found myself shivering through cold, damp streets. A few weeks later in Siem Reap, I’d timed it just right — exploring Angkor Wat in the cool mornings, before the brutal April heat set in.
The difference was night and day.
Timing is everything!
That’s why in this guide, I’ll share exactly when to visit Vietnam and Cambodia.
From the best weather by month to the cheapest travel seasons and the festivals you don’t want to miss, you’ll discover how to plan your trip so every moment — from sunrise at Angkor Wat to sunset on the Mekong — feels unforgettable.
The iconic Angkor Thom Temple from Tomb Raider.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
Quick Answer: When is the best time?
The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is from November to March, when the weather is cooler, drier, and ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and temple visits.
April and October are great shoulder months with fewer crowds, while May to September offers the cheapest flights and hotels but comes with heavier rains.
Peak Season (Nov–Mar): Best weather, most popular festivals.
Shoulder Season (Apr & Oct): Good balance of value and comfort.
Low Season (May–Sep): Cheapest prices, lush green landscapes, fewer tourists.
A colourful day in Hanoi.
Vietnam’s climate & best times to visit.
Stretching more than 1,000 miles from north to south, Vietnam’s climate is diverse and can vary dramatically depending on the region.
I enjoyed very different experiences across the country during my recent 10 day trip.
To plan your trip effectively, it’s essential to consider the best time to visit Vietnam by region: the north, central coast, and the south.
North (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay):
Cool, dry winters (Oct–Apr) are best. Summers can be hot and humid.
The north has four distinct seasons — winter, spring, summer, and autumn — unlike the tropical south.
Winter (Dec–Feb):
Chilly in Hanoi (10–18°C) and often misty in Ha Long Bay. In Sapa, temperatures can drop close to freezing. It’s still a good time for cultural sightseeing, but pack warm clothes.
Spring (Mar–Apr):
Mild temperatures and clear skies.
Perfect for a Ha Long Bay cruise or exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Summer (May–Aug):
Hot, humid, and prone to heavy showers. However, this is the season when Sapa’s rice terraces are green and photogenic.
Autumn (Sep–Nov):
Widely regarded as the best time to visit northern Vietnam. The air is cool and dry, Ha Long Bay is calm, and Sapa’s terraced fields turn golden.
👉 Autumn and spring are the most popular times for cruises and trekking.
Check top-rated Ha Long Bay cruises | See Sapa trekking tours.
See my full Hanoi itinerary for more detailed information about what is fun in the capital during peak season.
An awesome time to visit Sapa.
Beautiful Ha Long Bay.
Central (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang):
Best from Feb–Aug. Typhoons may hit Sept–Nov.
The central coast has its own microclimate, which can differ significantly from the north and south.
Dry Season (Feb–Aug):
Best time to visit, especially for the popular day trips.
Expect long sunny days (28–35°C), ideal for Da Nang’s beaches or strolling through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets.
Hue is hot but manageable, with clear skies over the Imperial Citadel.
Rainy Season (Sep–Nov):
Typhoons can hit the coast, bringing heavy rain and occasional flooding, especially in Hoi An. Some tours may be canceled during this period.
Cooler Months (Dec–Jan):
Mild and overcast, with occasional rain. Not the best for beaches, but still great for cultural sightseeing in Hue.
👉 This region is famous for cultural tours and beach resorts.
Book Hoi An lantern festival tours | Compare Da Nang beach resorts.
Imperial vibes in Hue.
Basket Boat Tour near Hoi An.
South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong, Phu Quoc):
Warm year-round. Dry season runs Dec–Apr.
The south has a tropical climate with just two main seasons: dry and wet. I found it to be extremely humid during the wet season when I visited Ho Chi Minh City.
Dry Season (Dec–Apr):
The most popular time to visit. Warm, sunny days (28–35°C) make it perfect for city sightseeing, boat trips in the Mekong, or relaxing on Phu Quoc’s beaches.
Wet Season (May–Nov):
Daily afternoon showers, but they’re usually short. Landscapes are lush, crowds are thinner, and prices drop. Rain rarely disrupts travel completely.
👉 The dry season is peak time for island escapes and Mekong cruises.
See Phu Quoc island tours & resorts | Book a Mekong Delta day trip.
Gliding through the Mekong.
Month-by-month guide to Vietnam’s weather.
January–March: Cool and dry in the north, warm in the south—ideal for multi-region trips.
April–May: Hotter, start of rainy season in the south; still good in central and north.
June–August: Rainy, hot, but great for beach lovers and green rice paddies in Sapa.
September–October: Best balance—pleasant weather across the country.
November–December: Dry, cooler north; sunny and dry south—excellent all-rounder months.
Summary: when to go to Vietnam.
Best Overall Months: October–April (comfortable weather across most regions).
For Beaches: February–August (central & southern coasts shine).
For Culture & Hiking: October–March (northern regions are best).
For Budget Travel: May–September (low season, discounts on hotels and flights).
My Khe Beach in Da Nang.
Cambodia’s climate & best times to visit.
Cambodia’s weather is much simpler to plan around than Vietnam’s. The country has just two main seasons…
A cool, dry season from November to April and a hot, wet season from May to October.
Each has its own perks: the dry months bring clear skies and perfect temple conditions, while the rainy months mean fewer tourists, cheaper hotels, and lush green landscapes around Angkor Wat and the countryside.
When I visited Cambodia in the wet season, I was worried the rain might spoil things — but instead it made the temples feel even more atmospheric. I still remember standing under my umbrella at Ta Prohm, watching the tree roots glisten in the drizzle, with barely another tourist in sight.
Cambodia National Musuem Gardens.
Dry season in Cambodia (November – April).
Weather:
Clear skies, low humidity, and temperatures ranging from 25–32°C.
Why Visit:
This is the best time to visit Cambodia for sightseeing, temple tours, and beach escapes.
Angkor Wat sunrises are breathtaking (My absolute favourite tour ever)….
Phnom Penh’s riverside is buzzing, and the southern coast (Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem) offers perfect beach weather.
Drawbacks:
Peak season means higher prices and larger crowds, especially around December–February. Booking early means you can still get good deals.
👉 Secure tours and accommodation early, especially in Siem Reap during high season.
Book Angkor Wat sunrise tours | Compare Koh Rong beach resorts
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is eerie all year round.
Wet season in Cambodia (May – October).
Weather:
Afternoon showers (30–35°C), usually short but heavy. The countryside turns lush green.
Travel Highlights:
Beautiful photography with dramatic skies and rice paddies in full bloom.
Fewer tourists at Angkor Wat and temples—great for peaceful exploring.
Cheaper hotels and flight deals (up to 30–40% discounts).
Drawbacks:
Some rural roads may be muddy or flooded; beaches can be less than ideal.
👉 Great time for eco-tours, photography trips, and budget hotel stays.
Find discounted Siem Reap hotels | See Cambodia cultural tours
A wet time in Siem Reap.
Month-by-month guide to Cambodia’s weather.
November–February: Cool and dry — peak season, best overall months.
March–April: Dry but extremely hot (up to 38°C). Time your trip around Khmer New Year for an unforgettable experience.
May–June: Start of rainy season. Mornings often clear, afternoons bring showers.
July–September: Heaviest rainfall. Peaceful temples, cheapest hotels.
October: Rains ease off, countryside remains lush — a great shoulder month.
A park in Phnom Penh.
Best time to visit Angkor Wat.
Angkor Wat is the country’s crown Jewel, and a must on your Cambodia itinerary, however, timing your visit is essential if you want to enjoy the ancient wonder to the fullest.
Best Months:
November–March, when the mornings are cool, the skies are clear, and sunrise over the temples is just… Awesome!
Budget-Friendly Months:
May–October, when the crowds thin out and you’ll often have quiet corners of the complex almost to yourself. Hotels and tours are far cheaper, too.
Festival Highlight:
Khmer New Year in April is one of the most vibrant times to visit. Expect lively celebrations across Siem Reap and Phnom Penh — but also prepare for intense heat.
Enjoying the ancient wonder.
When I visited, I had the absolute privilege of exploring Angkor Wat with Mr. T… Our fun and enthusiastic local guide.
He knew every hidden spot for photos, cracked jokes the whole way through, and somehow managed to time our visit so we avoided most of the crowds. Watching the first light hit the towers while he explained the history behind the carvings was a moment I’ll never forget.
👉 Book my exact Angkor Wat sunrise tour here.
I highly recommend going with a local guide. It’s worth every penny for the stories, shortcuts, and energy they bring to the experience.
Angkor Wat can be unbearable in the hot season.
Summary: When to go to Cambodia.
Best Overall Months: November–March (dry and comfortable).
For Festivals & Culture: April (Khmer New Year), November (Water Festival).
For Beaches: December–April (southern coast & islands).
For Budget Travellers: May–October (low season deals).
Beach vibes in Cambodia.
Cheapest time to visit Vietnam & Cambodia.
If you’re traveling on a budget, the cheapest time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is during the low season from May to October.
While this period overlaps with the rainy season, the rewards are big: lower prices, fewer crowds, and greener landscapes.
On my visit during this time of year, I grabbed some absoulte bargains on internal flights, and hotels. I had an amazing hotel in Da Nang for dirt cheap!
👉 Compare cheap flights to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh.
Prices can be up to 40% lower in these months.
Pagoda grounds in Da Nang.
Why travel in the low season?
I have travelled all over South East Asia at different times of the year, and it is always an awesome trip, however travelling in the low season has its perks:
Cheaper Flights & Hotels:
International flights often drop by 20–40%, and hotels run rainy-season promotions. On my last trip in Da Nang, I scored a boutique hotel on the seafront for half the price of peak season.
Fewer Crowds:
Imagine having Ha Long Bay viewpoints or Angkor Wat corners almost to yourself — it happens in the low season. During one of our Ha Long Bay cruises, we had the ship nearly to ourselves!
Lush Landscapes:
Afternoon showers bring life to rice terraces in Sapa and the countryside around Siem Reap, making them more than Instagram worthy!
Quiet streets in Phnom Penh.
Tours are cheaper in low season.
Downsides of low season.
Of course, low-season travel isn’t perfect, however, the few downsides should never put you off fully. Keep an open mind!
Afternoon Downpours: Rain usually comes in heavy but short bursts, especially in July and August.
Hot & Humid Weather: Expect high humidity — pack light clothes and stay hydrated.
Occasional Disruptions: Some rural roads may flood, and boat tours in Ha Long Bay or the Mekong may occasionally cancel.
I have always found that rain can actually help create unexpected stops during your daily trips. I visited Da Nang in the low season, and fell in love with the cafe culture.
I found some gems, which I have returned back to many times since!
I advise you to plan your sightseeing in the mornings, when skies are usually clear, and save indoor activities (museums, cafes, cooking classes) for the afternoons.
A very rainy day in Hanoi.
Shoulder seasons = Best balance (April & October).
If you’re looking for the sweet spot between value and weather, the shoulder months — April and October — are perfect.
April: End of dry season. Expect rising heat, but also Khmer New Year celebrations in Cambodia and fewer crowds at Vietnamese beaches.
October: Rains begin to ease, leaving behind lush, green landscapes with comfortable temperatures. Perfect for Angkor Wat, Hanoi, and central Vietnam before peak-season prices return.
Siem Reap.
5 Budget travel hacks for Vietnam & Cambodia.
Travelling through Vietnam and Cambodia doesn’t have to break the bank — in fact, both countries are some of the best value destinations in Southeast Asia.
With the right hacks, you can cut costs, travel smarter, and still experience the highlights in style… Some of my favourite spots in Vietnam cost me very little money!
These tips will make your spending money go considerably further!
1. Book flights early (or last-minute deals).
Budget carriers like VietJet, AirAsia, and Cambodia Angkor Air often run flash sales.
Sign up for alerts or use price comparison tools. I managed a return flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh for under £50.
👉 Compare cheap flights across Vietnam & Cambodia.
2. Travel overnight to save on accommodation.
Overnight buses and trains are common between major cities.
You’ll save a night’s accommodation and cover long distances while you sleep. Just pack earplugs and a light jacket — the AC is always freezing!
A perfect morning at Angor Wat.
3. Visit Angkor Wat with a local guide.
It might feel like a splurge, but hiring a local guide at Angkor Wat is one of the best investments you can make.
A good guide knows exactly where to stand for the perfect sunrise shot, which temples to visit before the tour buses arrive, and the hidden corners most tourists miss.
It soon got crowded after we had already got the best spot for sunrise.
When I visited, our guide Mr. T not only made us laugh with his endless stories, but he also timed our route so we avoided 90% of the crowds. Watching the first light hit Angkor Wat’s towers from a quiet spot was worth every penny.
4. Stay connected cheaply.
Buying a local SIM card (or eSIM) saves you a fortune compared to roaming charges. It also makes navigating, translating menus, and booking Grab rides effortless. I used my internet package to help navigate the outer Angkor Wat route.
👉 Compare SIM card & eSIM plans for Southeast Asia.
5. Eat where the locals eat.
Street food in Hanoi or Phnom Penh isn’t just cheap — it’s often the best meal you’ll have. A steaming bowl of pho or Khmer noodles will cost you $2–3, compared to $10–15 in touristy restaurants.
A tour guide is essential to avoid the stress.
Quick price guide (Budget traveller, per day).
Vietnam:
Hostel Dorm: £4–£8 (cheaper in rural towns).
Mid-Range Hotel: £20–£40 (prices drop in rainy season).
Street Food Meal: £1.50–£3 (restaurant dining costs more).
Day Tours: £15–£40 (cheaper in low season).
International Flights: £320–£550 return (cheapest May–Oct).
Some cheap food in Hanoi.
Cambodia:
Hostel Dorm: £5–£10 (cheaper outside Siem Reap & Phnom Penh).
Mid-Range Hotel: £25–£50 (discounts in wet season).
Street Food Meal: £1.50–£3 (local stalls are best value).
Day Tours: £20–£45 (Angkor Wat tours at sunrise are top value).
International Flights: Similar to Vietnam (£320–£550 return, May–Oct cheapest).
Enjoying Hoi An.
Verdict: Cheapest time to visit.
Absolute Cheapest: June–September → rainiest but best for flight + hotel deals.
Best Value: April & October → moderate prices, manageable weather, fewer crowds.
Peak Prices: December–February → perfect weather, but highest demand.
Another view of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Festivals & cultural highlights in Vietnam & Cambodia.
One of the best ways to experience Vietnam and Cambodia beyond landscapes and temples is through their festivals and cultural events.
These celebrations bring streets alive with music, food, and tradition—timing your trip around one can make your journey unforgettable.
Major festivals in Vietnam.
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year).
When: Late January or February (dates vary)
Where: Nationwide, especially lively in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City
What to Expect: Family reunions, dragon dances, fireworks, flower markets. Some businesses close for a few days, but the festive atmosphere is magical.
Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu).
When: September.
Where: Hanoi & Hoi An (famous for lanterns).
What to Expect: Lantern processions, lion dances, mooncakes, and family celebrations. Perfect for photographers.
Hue Festival.
When: Every two years (next dates vary, usually April–May).
Where: Hue (Central Vietnam).
What to Expect: Traditional music, dance, and performances inside Hue’s Imperial City.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
When: Every full moon (monthly)
Where: Hoi An Ancient Town.
What to Expect: Streets lit by thousands of lanterns, candle-lit river offerings, cultural shows.
Festival season in Da Nang.
Major festivals in Cambodia.
Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)
When: Mid-April.
Where: Nationwide; Siem Reap and Phnom Penh host the biggest celebrations.
What to Expect: Water fights, street games, dancing, and a vibrant, joyful atmosphere.
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk).
When: November (coincides with the full moon).
Where: Phnom Penh (main celebrations along the Tonle Sap River).
What to Expect: Colorful boat races, fireworks, street food, and concerts. A highlight of Cambodia’s cultural calendar.
Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day).
When: September–October.
Where: Nationwide, with major ceremonies in Phnom Penh.
What to Expect: Cambodians pay respects to ancestors at temples with offerings and prayers.
Temple vibes in Siem Reap.
Why plan around festivals?
Cultural Immersion: Festivals offer insights into local traditions you won’t find in guidebooks.
Photography: Lanterns, parades, and rituals make for stunning travel photos.
Memorable Travel Moments: Joining a local celebration is often the most unforgettable part of a trip.
💡 Tip: Book accommodation and tours early if travelling during Tet or Khmer New Year, as demand always spikes.
Suggested itineraries by season.
Whether you’re travelling in the cool dry season (Nov–Mar) or the hot rainy season (Apr–Oct), Vietnam and Cambodia offer unforgettable journeys. Here are sample itineraries you can adapt depending on how long you’re travelling and when you’re visiting.
Winter & dry season itinerary (November – March).
Best for sightseeing, trekking, and comfortable weather.
1 Week (Highlights Only).
Day 1–3: Hanoi & Ha Long Bay → Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, then take a Ha Long Bay overnight cruise.
Day 4–5: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) → Fly to Cambodia, spend two days exploring Angkor Wat and nearby temples.
Day 6–7: Phnom Penh → Visit the Royal Palace, Killing Fields, and riverside cafes.
👉 Check 7-day Vietnam & Cambodia tours.
2 Weeks (Balanced Explorer).
Days 1–3: Hanoi & Ha Long Bay.
Days 4–6: Hue & Hoi An (Central Vietnam) → Imperial City, lantern-lit nights in Hoi An.
Days 7–9: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta → History museums, Cu Chi Tunnels, floating markets, awesome nightlife.
Days 10–12: Siem Reap → Angkor Wat sunrise, Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider temple), Angkor Thom.
Days 13–14: Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville → End with culture in Phnom Penh or beaches in Cambodia.
Hoi An at night.
Summer & rainy season itinerary (April – October).
Best for budget travellers, lush landscapes, and cultural immersion.
1 Week (Budget-Friendly Focus),
Day 1–2: Ho Chi Minh City → Explore city highlights, street food tours.
Day 3–4: Mekong Delta → Boat trips through floating markets and villages.
Day 5–7: Siem Reap → Angkor Wat temples + countryside bike tours (green and vibrant during rainy season).
👉 Search low-season Vietnam & Cambodia tours.
2 Weeks (Slow & Scenic).
Days 1–3: Hanoi & Ninh Binh → Karst landscapes, rice paddies, boat rides.
Days 4–6: Sapa (if weather permits) → Trekking among terraced fields (lush during rainy season).
Days 7–9: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta → Mix of city and countryside.
Days 10–12: Siem Reap → Temples with fewer crowds, cultural dance shows.
Days 13–14: Phnom Penh → Museums, riverfront walks, or nearby silk island villages.
A cloudy day at Ha Long Bay.
Travel tip: Seasonal flexibility.
One of the biggest advantages in Vietnam and Cambodia is that, like in the popular spots in Thailand, bad timing doesn’t have to ruin your trip.
Even in the so-called ‘rainy season,’ showers are usually short and sharp, and often gone in an hour.
That means you can plan temple visits, cruises, or trekking in the mornings, and keep the afternoons for coffee shops, cooking classes, or spa time.
If you’re flexible, you can also mix regions to match the weather: while central Vietnam might be wet in September, the south could be sunny and dry.
This way, you always have a pocket of good weather waiting somewhere.
Angkor Wat.
Final thoughts: When’s the best time to visit Vietnam & Cambodia?
If you’re looking for the perfect balance of weather, culture, and comfort, the cool, dry months from November to March are hands-down the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia.
I visited both countries in March on my last visits and I enjoyed clear skies, festival celebrations, and ideal conditions for everything from trekking in Sapa to watching sunrise over Angkor Wat.
You should never write off the rainy season though, especially if you love a bargain!
From April to October, you’ll find cheaper flights, hotel deals, and fewer crowds—plus, the landscapes are at their greenest and most photogenic. For budget-conscious travellers, this is definitely smartest time to go.
👉 Personal Tip: If you’re combining both countries, aim for November to March—you’ll hit the sweet spot where Vietnam’s north is cool, the south is sunny, and Cambodia is perfect for temple-hopping.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
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FAQs: Best time to visit Vietnam & Cambodia.
What is the best month to visit Vietnam and Cambodia?
The best months to visit both countries are November to March, when the weather is dry and cooler. These months are ideal for exploring Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Angkor Wat, and Phnom Penh without extreme heat or heavy rain.
What is the rainy season in Vietnam and Cambodia?
The rainy season runs from May to October in both countries.
Expect short but heavy afternoon showers, especially in July and August. The upside is lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotels.
When is the cheapest time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia?
The cheapest time is during the low season (May–September).
Flights and accommodation are often 20–40% cheaper, though you’ll need to plan around the rain.
How many days do you need to visit Vietnam and Cambodia together?
If you’re combining both countries, aim for 2 weeks minimum.
One week allows you to see highlights like Hanoi and Angkor Wat, but two weeks gives you time to explore North, Central, and South Vietnam plus Cambodia’s temples and capital.
Which is better to visit first, Vietnam or Cambodia?
Most travellers start in Vietnam (flights are cheaper into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City), then cross into Cambodia for Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh. But it works either way depending on your flight deals and itinerary.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.