Hoan Kiem Lake and Turtle Tower in Hanoi at golden hour

Hanoi in January

Cool, misty and easy to explore

The short answer

January is a good time to visit Hanoi.

A cool-weather Hanoi for cafés, museums and long Old Quarter walks.

7/10 overall13–19.3°CModerate crowds€€€ (Moderate)
Weather7/10
Crowds7/10
Prices7/10
Events6/10

January in detail

What January actually feels like

Weather
13–19.3°C
Cool, misty and often cloudy, with relatively little rain
Crowds
Moderate
Generally manageable, with demand changing sharply when Tet falls nearby
Prices
€€€ (Moderate)
Usually moderate, but Tet can raise rates and reduce availability

+Cool temperatures make long walking days comfortable.

–Cloud, mist and damp air can make the city feel colder than the figures suggest.

My tip for January

Bring a light warm layer and check the changing Tet calendar before booking.

  • City walking
  • Museums
  • Street food
  • Cafés

How January compares

Against the other eleven months

7th of 12 overall in Hanoi, 7th for weather, 10th for space, 6th for value. The emptiest month is June; the best value is August.

See all twelve months for Hanoi

Plan around

What’s on in Hanoi in January

Cool and cloudy season

December–March

Conditions are cool to cold by Hanoi standards, often misty and cloudy. This is comfortable for walking, but the damp air can feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
Tet / Lunar New Year

January or February — dates change every year

Tet is Vietnam's most important holiday and can significantly affect transport, opening hours, hotel prices and availability. Check the exact dates for your travel year rather than relying on a fixed date.

Not set on January?

Even stronger months in Hanoi

Ready to book January in Hanoi?

Cool temperatures make long walking days comfortable.

Find hotels in Hanoi

Affiliate link