Vietnam is a beautiful Southeast Asian country known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. November falls during Vietnam’s dry season, making it an ideal time to visit this exotic destination. With pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lots of festivities, November is one of the best months for traveling to Vietnam. Read on for everything you need to know about visiting Vietnam in November!
Weather in Vietnam in November
November marks the start of Vietnam’s dry season in most regions, as monsoons subside across the country. The weather is consistently warm and sunny, with average highs of 27-30°C (80-86°F) and lows of 18-23°C (64-73°F). Northern Vietnam experiences cooler weather during this time, while southern regions remain hot and humid year-round.
Occasional rain showers are still possible in November, particularly in Central Vietnam. However, precipitation occurs less frequently compared to summer and fall. Typhoons are also rare this time of year. With comfortable daytime conditions and minimal rainfall, November’s weather is ideal for sightseeing, beachgoing, and other outdoor activities across Vietnam.
Top Attractions to Visit in Vietnam in November
With favorable weather and fewer tourists than other months, November is a wonderful time to explore Vietnam’s top sights. Here are some must-visit attractions during this season:
Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam’s largest metropolis offers fascinating history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Top attractions include the Reunification Palace, Cu Chi Tunnels, and Ben Thanh Market.
Hoi An
This charming historic town on the central coast boasts ancient temples, merchant houses, and picturesque lanterns. Visit Hoi An’s iconic Japanese Bridge and soak up the riverside atmosphere.
Halong Bay
Cruise amongst towering limestone karsts rising from emerald waters in this scenic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kayak through sea caves and floating villages.
Sapa
Trek through rice terraces and stay with hill tribes in this mountainous northern region. The cool fall weather makes hiking comfortable.
Mekong Delta
See iconic floating markets and explore verdant orchards and rice paddies via boat in Vietnam’s lush river delta. Try regional fruits and cuisine.
Festivals and Events in Vietnam in November
From religious celebrations to spirited boat races, Vietnam hosts many lively festivals and events in November. Here are some top picks:
- Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival) – This harvest festival honors the moon goddess. Celebrate with glowing lanterns, lion dances, and mooncakes across the country.
- Da Lat Flower Festival – Da Lat celebrates its blossoming flowers and agriculture with vibrant parades and installations.
- Ok Om Bok Festival – The Khmer ethnic minority hold colorful moon-worshipping ceremonies in Tra Vinh province.
- Nuoc Ngot Festival – Phan Rang honors its delicious grapevines with parades, beauty contests, and grape-stomping.
- Da Nang Fireworks Festival – This spectacular pyrotechnic show illuminates Vietnam’s skyline over the Han River in central Vietnam.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival – Experience elaborate rituals and cultural performances at this sacred Buddhist complex in Ninh Binh province.
Tips for Traveling to Vietnam in November
To make the most of your Vietnam trip in November, keep these tips in mind:
- Book accommodations, activities, and transportation 1-2 months in advance since demand rises over the fall.
- Pack a light jacket and closed-toed shoes for visiting northern Vietnam and overnight boat cruises where it gets cool.
- Visit top attractions like Halong Bay and Hoi An early in the month to avoid bigger crowds later on.
- Consider hiring a local guide in more remote regions to handle logistics, translations, and provide cultural insights.
- Travel with small bills and coins since vendors may not always have change for larger notes, especially at remote markets and street stalls.
- Drink only bottled water and be cautious with raw fruits/veggies to avoid food or water-borne illnesses.
- Respectful dress (covering shoulders/knees) is recommended when visiting temples and pagodas across Vietnam.
Best Places to Stay in Vietnam in November
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, Vietnam offers diverse accommodations for every travel style. Here are some top lodging picks for November:
Ho Chi Minh City: Hotel des Arts Saigon
This boutique hotel features artsy, modern rooms in a central location to explore the energetic city. Enjoy rooftop views, an infinity pool, and free breakfast.
Hoi An: Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort
Luxurious villas, relaxing spa treatments, yoga classes, and healthy dining options abound at this upscale wellness retreat.
Hanoi: Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Spa
Stay steps from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake at this stylish hotel with an on-site spa, gym, and rooftop pool.
Sapa: Sapa Dragon Hotel
Nestled in Vietnam’s northern mountains, this property offers comfortable rooms, stunning vistas, an excellent restaurant, and friendly staff.
Phu Quoc: Mango Bay Resort
Escape to this tranquil island getaway with eco-bungalows on a private beach, surrounded by lush gardens and ocean views.
Budget-Friendly Options for Traveling to Vietnam in November
From inexpensive lodging to low-cost activities, Vietnam offers many wallet-friendly options for thrifty travelers:
- Stay in hostel dorms for around $6-10/night or grab private rooms at guesthouses for $15-30/night.
- Eat street food and shop local markets to save money on dining. Banh mi sandwiches, pho noodle soup, and fresh tropical fruit make inexpensive, delicious meals.
- Take local transportation like buses, trains, Grab taxis/motorbikes instead of private transfers and tours.
- Join free walking tours in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An to learn about the history and culture.
- Get affordable spa treatments, manicures, haircuts at beauty schools in major cities.
- Haggle respectfully at markets, shops, and when booking private tours for 10-30% discounts on purchases and services.
- Visit museums, temples, and galleries on their free admission days, often midweek or Sundays.
- Take advantage of travel deals during the low season like discounted hotel rates, 2-for-1 specials, and free room upgrades.
What to Pack for a Trip to Vietnam in November
When packing for Vietnam in November, be prepared with these essential items:
- Light, breathable clothing: Think linen, yoga pants, shorts, sundresses, etc. Dress is casual throughout Vietnam.
- Light jacket: Have a sweater, hoodie, or windbreaker for northern Vietnam where temps drop in the evenings.
- Comfortable shoes: Sandals, sneakers or hiking shoes for walking around towns and exploring nature/temples.
- Hat and sunglasses: Vietnam has year-round sun protection.
- Mosquito repellent: The occasional rain may lead to more mosquitos.
- Sunscreen: Reapply often with Vietnam’s intense sun and heat.
- Bathing suit: For beach days, boat cruises, and pool time.
- Smart casual attire: If visiting higher-end restaurants or attending a festival event.
- Protective mask: Don’t forget one! Mask mandates may still occur in Vietnam.
- Photocopies of documents: Carry copies of passport, visas, etc in case of an emergency or theft.
- Extra medication: Bring enough to last your whole trip. Medications can be difficult to access in Vietnam.
Traditional Vietnamese Food to Try in November
November is a great time to sample mouthwatering Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to try:
Pho
- This iconic beef or chicken noodle soup makes a warming, hearty meal. Customize with fresh herbs, chili and lime.
Banh Mi
- These crusty Vietnamese baguette sandwiches are stuffed with meats, veggies and zesty sauces. A fast, flavorful street food.
Bun Cha
- Savory grilled pork and noodles come together in this signature northern Vietnamese dish. Dip in sweet/sour broth.
Banh Xeo
- Crispy rice flour crepes filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts taste even better when wrapped in herbs and lettuce.
Cao Lau
- Chewy noodles get combined with pork, greens and croutons in this special Hoi An noodle dish.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee
- Robust dark coffee sweetened with condensed milk makes a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
Tropical Fruit
- Try juicy mangos, dragonfruit, rambutans and lychees at local markets and street stalls.
Transportation Options in Vietnam in November
Vietnam offers diverse transportation modes to get around the country:
Planes
- Domestic flights via Vietnam Airlines and budget carriers like VietJet easily connect Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang and other major cities.
Overnight Trains
- Wood-paneled sleeper cars with bunks provide an iconic way to travel between main cities and towns, like Hanoi to Huế.
Buses
- Public buses and sleeper coaches run frequent, affordable routes across Vietnam. An open-tour bus pass offers flexible travel.
Taxis and Private Transfers
- Book a radio taxi or private car service for convenient door-to-door transport within cities and between destinations.
Motorbike Taxis
- For quick, cheap trips around cities and towns, hop on the back of a xe ôm motorbike taxi. Grab is the top app.
Cyclos and Pedicabs
- Take a relaxing ride around smaller towns in a cycle rickshaw or pedaled three-wheeler. Agree on fares beforehand.
Boats
- Cruise between islands or visit floating villages by ferry, longtail boat or traditional junk boat for a scenic experience.
Safety Precautions for Traveling to Vietnam in November
Here are some top safety tips for your trip:
- Only drink bottled water and avoid raw foods to prevent illness.
- Carry small amounts of cash instead of relying solely on cards to avoid theft.
- Keep belongings secure in bags/pockets rather than set down to deter pickpockets, especially in crowded cities.
- Arrange airport transfers instead of hailing random taxis for smoother arrival logistics.
- Purchase travel insurance to protect against any accidents, injuries or lost belongings.
- Check current weather forecasts and news to avoid any upcoming storms or protests.
- Avoid motorbikes unless skilled, since traffic can be chaotic. Always wear a helmet.
- Be cautious of overexposure and dehydration in the sun and heat. Reapply sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
- Connect with your hotel, tour guides or tourism police if you run into any issues or need assistance.
By taking proper precautions, remaining vigilant, and using common sense, you can stay safe and enjoy an amazing trip to Vietnam in November! With pleasant weather, interesting festivals, fewer crowds, and tons of natural and cultural beauty to explore, it’s a wonderful time to visit this vibrant country.
Tips to apply visa to Vietnam in November
1. Choose the right visa type
There are three main types of visas for Vietnam:
- E-visa: This is the easiest and most convenient type of visa to apply for, and it is available to citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. E-visas are valid for 30 days and can be applied for online.
- Visa on arrival: Visas on arrival can be obtained at most international airports in Vietnam. However, there are some restrictions on who can apply for a visa on arrival, and there is a fee to pay.
- Visa from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate: This is the traditional way to apply for a Vietnamese visa, and it is required for citizens of some countries and for those who need a visa for more than 30 days or multiple entries.
2. Apply early
It is always best to apply for your visa as early as possible, especially if you are traveling during peak season (November is a popular month to visit Vietnam). E-visas can be applied for up to 30 days in advance, and visas on arrival can be applied for up to 3 days in advance. Visa applications from embassies and consulates can take up to 10 days to process.
3. Make sure you have all the required documents
The required documents for a Vietnamese visa vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. However, all visa applicants must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining. You will also need to provide a passport-size photo and proof of travel insurance.
4. Be prepared to pay a fee
There is a fee for all types of Vietnamese visas. The e-visa fee is USD 25, the visa on arrival fee is USD 25-50, and the fee for a visa from an embassy or consulate varies depending on the country.
5. Be patient and cooperative
The visa application process can be time-consuming and frustrating, but it is important to be patient and cooperative with the Vietnamese authorities. If you have any questions or problems, do not hesitate to ask for help.
Additional tips for applying for a Vietnam visa in November:
- November is a popular month to visit Vietnam, so it is important to apply for your visa early, especially if you are planning to travel during the peak Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
- If you are applying for an e-visa, be sure to submit your application at least 30 days in advance of your travel date.
- If you are applying for a visa on arrival, be sure to check the latest requirements and fees on the website of the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- When arriving at a Vietnamese airport, be prepared to show your passport, e-visa approval letter (if applicable), visa on arrival application form, and proof of travel insurance.
- If you are applying for a visa from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, be sure to check the latest requirements and fees on the embassy’s or consulate’s website.
By following these tips, you can make the visa application process as smooth and straightforward as possible.
