Destination

When should you visit Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam at full speed: buzzing streets, incredible food, rooftop bars and a constant flow of motorbikes. The city is hot year-round, but the dry season brings clearer skies and generally better conditions for exploring the streets, markets and rooftop scene.

My recommendation

February

February is the sweet spot for Ho Chi Minh City, combining very low rainfall, plenty of sunshine and lower humidity with warm temperatures. It is one of the easiest months for exploring the city on foot, enjoying rooftop bars and planning day trips without constantly watching the rain.

Driest month

February

The lowest rainfall of the year and plenty of sunshine

Rooftop season

February–April

Hot days and warm evenings for Ho Chi Minh City’s rooftop scene

Tet atmosphere

February

The Lunar New Year can transform the city with flowers, decorations and celebrations

Shoulder-season value

April

Still relatively dry before the main wet season arrives

Cooler mornings

December–January

Slightly lower temperatures before the hottest months

February scores

Weather9.5/10

Crowds8.5/10

Prices8/10

Events9/10

Motorbikes on a neon-lit street in Ho Chi Minh City at night

Plan around

What to know before you book

Tet celebrations: Tet dates change every year, so check the Lunar New Year calendar before booking.
Dry-season rooftops: Plan sunset drinks, rooftop bars and evening walks during the drier part of the year, when rainfall is generally less disruptive.
Mekong Delta day trip: The drier season is a practical window for adding a Mekong Delta day trip to your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.

Best way to experience the city

Start your days early for cooler walks through District 1 and save rooftop bars, street food and nightlife for the evening. Ho Chi Minh City stays warm throughout the year, while sudden tropical showers become much more common from May through October.

Month by month