Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in May: Embrace the Beauty of Early Summer

Whether you’re chasing off-the-beaten-path adventures or classic beach days, this guide to the best places to visit in Vietnam in May will help you plan a journey full of beauty, comfort, and discovery.

Why Visit Vietnam in May?

May offers a lovely balance of sunshine, greenery, and peace. It’s a transitional month — between the dry season and the first rains — which means you get the lush scenery without the humidity overload. Better yet, prices are still reasonable, and tourist crowds haven’t yet peaked. You’ll also find local springtime festivals in rural areas that give you a chance to witness Vietnamese traditions beyond the guidebooks.

Weather in Vietnam in May

• North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang): Getting warmer with temperatures between 20–30°C. Expect occasional spring showers and green hills.

• Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): Warm and dry (25–33°C), ideal for coastal travel.

• South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Hot and increasingly humid (28–35°C), but still great for riverside and island trips.

Packing Tip: Light, breathable clothing is essential. Bring a light jacket for cooler highland evenings, and always pack sunscreen, a hat, and a foldable umbrella just in case.

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in May

1. Ha Giang

Northern Vietnam’s Ha Giang turns into a mirror of the sky in May, as rice terraces begin to fill with water. The reflective paddies are stunning at sunrise and sunset, creating dreamlike photo opportunities. Warm, clear days are perfect for motorbike adventures or village trekking, and the roads are quieter than in high season. It’s also a great time to connect with local ethnic communities before the summer influx.

2. Sapa

May marks the start of the planting season in Sapa, when rice fields are freshly flooded and shimmer like glass. The cool, misty mornings, earthy smells, and light rains make the mountains come alive. You’ll see farmers working in traditional attire, and local markets bustle with fresh produce and colorful textiles. Evenings are cozy in a homestay with hot tea and mountain views.

3. Ninh Binh

Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh shines in May when golden rice fields begin to stretch between limestone cliffs. Take a boat through Tam Coc or Trang An under warm skies and blooming lotus flowers. With fewer tourists than peak months, you can explore ancient temples and rural roads at a relaxed pace. It’s a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike.

4. Hue

Hue’s calm elegance is best enjoyed in spring, when May offers long days and little rain. You’ll have the Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, and riverside pagodas all to yourself in the early hours. A dragon boat ride on the Perfume River or sampling royal cuisine under the trees is a treat. Don’t miss the chance to cycle through its quiet lanes shaded by frangipani trees.

5. Hoi An

Hoi An in May is a picture of charm — glowing lanterns, sunshine-filled alleys, and calm beaches nearby. It’s warm but not yet humid, so walking or cycling through the Ancient Town is a joy. Enjoy beach time at An Bang in the morning, then wind down with street food and riverside views in the evening. If your timing is right, the Full Moon Festival turns the town into pure magic.

6. Da Nang

A coastal city with a heart, Da Nang hits its stride in May with perfect beach days and gentle winds. My Khe Beach and Non Nuoc are clean and uncrowded, while the Marble Mountains offer shade and stunning views. You’re also just a drive away from Ba Na Hills or the Hai Van Pass. It’s a great spot to blend relaxation and sightseeing in one stop.

7. Quy Nhon

This lesser-known seaside city is a gem in May. With golden sands, turquoise waters, and quiet coves, Quy Nhon offers serenity without sacrificing scenery. Explore local Cham towers, hike up to stunning viewpoints, or relax with fresh seafood by the sea. It’s ideal for travelers wanting authentic beach vibes without the buzz of more popular destinations.

8. Da Lat

Spring doesn’t leave Da Lat behind - in fact, May may be one of its most beautiful months. Hydrangeas and roses are in bloom, and the pine-covered hills are as cool and fresh as ever. You can visit waterfalls, paddle on the lake, or wander the French-colonial streets under a misty sky. The cooler air makes it a welcome contrast to hotter lowland destinations.

9. Can Tho

The capital of the Mekong Delta slows down sweetly in May. Floating markets like Cai Rang are still vibrant, and the river cruises through canals feel even more tranquil. Orchards are heavy with fruit, and local homestays are more intimate before tourist numbers rise in summer. Don’t miss a boat ride at dawn - it’s a truly unforgettable experience.

10. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc in May is your last chance to enjoy the dry season on this paradise island before the rains roll in. Calm seas make for excellent snorkeling trips around the An Thoi Islands, and the beaches remain pristine. You can visit pepper farms, take jungle hikes, or enjoy sunset dinners by the shore. With off-peak hotel rates, it’s also a great time for affordable luxury.

Travel Tips for Vietnam in May

May is generally smooth for travel, but a bit of preparation goes a long way. Plan beach and outdoor activities for the mornings when it’s cooler and clearer. Always have light rain gear handy - short afternoon showers can occur, especially in the south. If you’re traveling at the beginning of the month, remember that Reunification Day (April 30) and Labor Day (May 1) may cause busy travel days. Book your transportation and accommodations early if your dates overlap with these holidays.

Conclusion

Vietnam in May is like an open invitation - warm, beautiful, and full of movement without the noise of peak season. It’s a chance to see landscapes transform, join locals in their seasonal rhythms, and discover destinations that feel both alive and relaxed. Whether you’re trekking through highland rice fields, island hopping, or enjoying imperial history, this list of the best places to visit in Vietnam in May sets the stage for a journey that’s as comfortable as it is captivating.

Happy to look into other travel months? Check out our Best Time to Visit Vietnam guide to determine the perfect time that suits your style – and take full advantage of every step along your journey through Vietnam.