Best Time to Visit Saigon

January is one of the best months to visit Saigon. The dry season is in full swing with sunny skies, comfortable humidity, and warm temperatures that rarely feel oppressive. This is peak tourist season with higher hotel prices, especially in District 1. If Tet (Vietnamese New Year) falls in late January, expect the city to transform with flower markets, decorations, and a festive atmosphere — but also higher prices and some business closures.

February usually hosts Tet, the most important event in the Vietnamese calendar. Saigon transforms with elaborate flower markets (Nguyen Hue Flower Street), dragon dances, and family celebrations. Many locals leave the city to visit family, so streets can feel unusually quiet — a surreal contrast to normal Saigon chaos. Some restaurants and shops close for 3-7 days. Hotel prices peak during Tet week. An extraordinary cultural experience if you plan around the closures.

March is the hottest month of the dry season with temperatures regularly hitting 34-35C. Humidity begins to rise but rain is still rare. This is an excellent time to visit — Tet crowds have dispersed, prices drop from February peaks, and the weather is reliably sunny. Evenings are warm and perfect for rooftop bars and street food. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities (museums, markets) for the hottest midday hours.

April is the transition month — the last gasp of the dry season before the rains arrive. Temperatures peak and humidity is noticeable. The first isolated rain showers may appear late in the month, usually brief and refreshing. Reunification Day (April 30) is a national holiday often paired with International Workers' Day (May 1) for a long weekend — domestic tourism spikes and hotels fill up. Book ahead if visiting during this period.

May marks the official start of the rainy season. Afternoon downpours become regular — intense but usually lasting only 1-2 hours before clearing. Mornings are typically dry and sunny. The rain brings welcome relief from April's oppressive heat and the city feels freshly washed after each storm. Tourist numbers drop and hotel prices soften. This is the beginning of Saigon's value season.

June brings regular afternoon rainstorms — often dramatic with thunder and lightning. The pattern is predictable: sunny mornings, building clouds, a heavy downpour around 2-4 PM, then clearing skies by evening. Plan outdoor activities for mornings and save museums and indoor markets for the afternoon. Hotel prices are noticeably lower and tourist crowds thin. A good month for budget travelers who do not mind getting wet.

July is deep rainy season with some of the heaviest rainfall of the year. Showers can be torrential but rarely last all day — most storms pass within 2 hours. Streets may flood temporarily in low-lying areas during severe downpours. The upside is significantly lower prices, minimal tourist crowds, and a more authentic Saigon experience. Carry an umbrella everywhere and embrace the tropical drama. The city does not stop for rain.

August continues the rainy season pattern with heavy afternoon showers. Vu Lan (Wandering Souls Day) is a Buddhist observance similar to the Hungry Ghost Festival — temples are active and locals release paper offerings. This is one of the quietest tourist months. Hotel deals are at their best and you can negotiate rates at mid-range hotels. The rain keeps temperatures from becoming unbearable — it is actually cooler than the scorching March-April dry season.

September is statistically the wettest month in Saigon and sees the fewest international tourists. However, the Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu) brings magical celebrations — lantern parades, mooncakes in every bakery, and children's festivities throughout the city. National Day (September 2) is a patriotic holiday. Prices are at rock bottom and you will have major attractions largely to yourself. The rain is heavy but the cultural experiences are rewarding.

October sees the rainy season beginning to ease. Showers become less frequent and less intense toward the end of the month. This is a transitional period — still technically rainy season but with more dry days than September. Halloween has become surprisingly popular in Saigon, especially around Bui Vien and District 1. Oc (snail) season is in full swing — a beloved Saigon street food tradition. Prices remain low with good hotel deals.

November marks the welcome return of the dry season. Rain becomes increasingly rare, humidity drops, and the city enters its most pleasant weather phase. Temperatures are warm without being oppressive. Tourist numbers start to climb as word spreads that dry season has begun. This is an excellent month to visit — good weather, moderate crowds, and prices that have not yet peaked for the December-February high season. One of the best-value months.

December is peak dry season with reliably sunny skies, comfortable temperatures, and low humidity. Christmas brings a surprisingly festive atmosphere to District 1 — the area around Notre-Dame Cathedral is decorated with lights and attracts crowds of selfie-taking locals. Rooftop bars are at their best. Prices rise for the holiday season and hotels book up, especially for Christmas and New Year's Eve. Book accommodation well in advance.