Vietnam weather in March

March in Vietnam marks the arrival of spring, bringing favorable weather across the country. With rising temperatures and minimal rainfall, it's an ideal time to explore this diverse land. Vietnam weather in March offers a harmonious blend of weather and experiences, making it a great time to visit this captivating Southeast Asian destination.

What is the weather like in Vietnam in March?

In March, Vietnam enjoys favorable weather conditions as spring begins to blossom. However, the characteristics of the Vietnam weather in March vary in different parts of the country.

  • Northern Vietnam: The weather in this region is mild and comfortable with less rainfall. It is a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the cultural treasures of Hanoi and Halong Bay.
  • Central Vietnam: Central areas enjoy pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring historical sites, beautiful beaches and local cuisine.
  • Southern Vietnam: In the south of the country the weather remains warm and dry in March. This is an ideal time for swimming in the southern coastal areas.

Planning a trip this March? Make sure to check our Vietnam itineraries.

Temple in Vietnam

Temple in Vietnam

Is it warm in Vietnam in March?

March in Vietnam is usually warm. Although the perception of warmth can vary depending on the region you are in.

In the north region of the country, including Hanoi and Halong Bay, March brings mild and comfortable temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 66°F to 80°F (19°C to 27°C). It may not be hot, but it's certainly warmer than the cooler months. Swimming is not common in March in this region due to the cool air and water temperatures.

In the central regions, such as Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An, the weather in March is pleasant and warm. Daytime temperatures usually range from 75°F to 86°F (24°C to 30°C). This is a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits, making swimming comfortable, especially during the day.

In the south of the country, March is still warm and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 77°F to 93°F (25°C to 34°C). It makes it the perfect time to visit bustling Ho Chi Minh City, the tranquil Mekong Delta and the picturesque beaches of Phu Quoc Island.

Set on taking a trip this spring? Discover more of the best places to visit in March.

Is March a good time to visit Vietnam?

Yes, March is generally considered a fantastic time to visit Vietnam. Most regions of the country experience favorable weather conditions during this month, making it suitable for a wide variety of activities and explorations.

March is particularly attractive due to its comfortable climate, making it a popular month to travel to Vietnam. You can experience a wide range of cultural, natural and historical attractions without the discomfort of extreme weather conditions.

In the north of the country, March brings mild and comfortable temperatures with minimal rainfall. It is an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring cultural attractions, with pleasant weather contributing to new experiences.

In the central regions, March brings pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. This is a great time to visit historical sites, and beautiful beaches and enjoy the local cuisine without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rain.

In the south of the country, the weather remains warm and dry in March. This region is ideal for exploring the vibrant city life, historical sites and beach vacations.

Not quite sure when to go? See our guides to the Vietnam weather in February or Vietnam in April.

Surrounded by limestone cliffs Taken in Bai Tu Long Bay, near Ha Long Bay, northern Vietnam ©  Xavier Hoenner/Shutterstock

Bai Tu Long Bay near Halong Bay, Vietnam © Xavier Hoenner/Shutterstock

What about the crowd and cost?

Vietnam experiences moderate to low crowds in March, making it an attractive time for travelers. The Lunar New Year (Tet) vacation, which can be very crowded, usually falls in late January or February, so by March the peak of the vacation season has subsided.

This means you can see popular sights with fewer tourists, enjoy a more relaxed vacation and have a better chance of lodging and entertainment without reservation in advance.

In terms of spending, March is generally considered a good month for frugal travelers. Lodging prices usually remain stable or even decrease compared to peak vacation periods such as Tet.

You can also find discounts on excursions and entertainment due to reduced demand. Food costs remain reasonable and you can enjoy local street food or dine in restaurants without significantly compromising your budget.

Want to know even more useful information about Vietnam before your trip? Read our Vietnam travel tips.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam

Average rainfall in March

The average rainfall in Vietnam in March varies from region to region.

In the north of the country, March is a relatively dry month with minimal rainfall. On average,  of rainfall 0.8-1.6 inches (approximately 20-40 mm) falls during the month.

Central regions such as Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An also receive little rainfall in March. Average rainfall is usually between 0.8-1.6 inches (about 20-40 mm).

In the south of the country, March is still dry with very little rainfall. Average rainfall usually does not exceed 0.4 inches (about 10 mm) for the entire month.

Overall, March is considered one of the driest months in Vietnam, making it a great time to travel, do outdoor activities and explore the different regions of the country.

Make sure to read all about the best time to visit Vietnam.

What to wear in Vietnam in March?

Vietnam experiences a variety of climatic conditions in March. Whether you are exploring the north, the central regions or the south of the country, it is essential to bring clothes appropriate to the weather conditions.

In March, the northern regions experience moderate temperatures. During the day, it is advisable to wear light and breathable clothing such as t-shirts, shorts and skirts. For cooler evenings, especially if you plan to visit mountainous places like Sapa, bring a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt.

In the central parts of the country, the weather in March is pleasant and warm. For daytime outings, you can take light clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, dresses and skirts.

For cooler evenings or visits to temples, where it is customary to dress modestly, you can take a few long-sleeved shirts or a light jacket. If you plan to vacation in coastal areas, don't forget to bring swimwear and beachwear.

In the south of the country, March is still warm and dry. For daytime vacations, choose light and breathable clothing such as T-shirts, dresses, shorts and skirts. Due to the strong sun, sun protection such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen should be used.

landscape around sapa, northwest vietnam.

Landscape around Sapa, northwest Vietnam.

Plan your trip with our Vietnam itineraries

Our Vietnam itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

  • Vietnam itinerary 5 days: A quick trip to experience Vietnam’s highlights. Expect an introduction to the country’s vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful scenery.
  • Vietnam itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you explore multiple regions, giving a good balance of city life, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences.
  • Vietnam itinerary 14 days: With two weeks, you’ll have time to go beyond the basics, discovering a wider range of landscapes and local traditions.
  • Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks: A three-week journey offers a comprehensive experience, with plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace.
  • North Vietnam itinerary: A focused itinerary showcasing northern Vietnam’s unique character and landscapes. A combination of cultural attractions, scenic views and authentic local experiences await you.

What to do in Vietnam in March

With favorable weather conditions, March in Vietnam offers a variety of experiences from cultural exploration to outdoor adventures. 

Start your journey through the north of the country with a cruise through the legendary limestone karsts and emerald waters of Halong Bay. The pleasant March weather will allow you to fully appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience the vibrant streets of the capital city of Hanoi. Explore the historic Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and savor street food.

Head to Sapa to trek among terraced rice paddies and socialize with ethnic minorities. March offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

Explore the imperial history of Hue and the charming streets of Hoi An. The pleasant weather is suitable to sightseeing and boat trips on the Perfume River.

Discover the vibrant city of Da Nang, known for its beautiful beaches and the mesmerizing Golden Bridge.

In the south of the country, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum, explore Ben Thanh Market and savor the city's cuisine.
Learn about Vietnamese history in the Cu Chi Tunnels on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, an subway network used during the Vietnam War.

Relax on the sandy beaches of Phu Quoc Island in the south, enjoying water activities and the tranquility of the island.

With comfortable weather and a wide range of activities, March provides a great opportunity to explore Vietnam's natural beauty, rich culture and historical sites.

Ready to explore Vietnam? Follow our Vietnam trip planning guide and start planning your perfect trip today.

The 10 most beautiful places in Vietnam – as voted by you: Phu Quoc island, Sao beach, Vietnam © Pawel Michalowski/Shutterstock

Phu Quoc island, Sao beach, Vietnam © Pawel Michalowski/Shutterstock

Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 26.08.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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