Top 15 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in September – Green Fields & Golden Days

Why Travel to Vietnam in September?

September is the bridge between summer rains and autumn clarity - a transitional month when Vietnam shines in unexpected ways. Rainfall eases in most regions, and nature puts on a spectacular show with golden rice terraces, cooler air in the highlands, and quieter coastlines.

It’s a smart time to travel thanks to:

• Golden rice fields at peak harvest in the north

• Refreshing temperatures in highland areas like Sapa and Ha Giang

• Dry, sunny weather in Central Vietnam—ideal for beaches and cultural sites

• Fewer crowds and lower prices after the busy summer season

• Seasonal charm like Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations and early buckwheat blooms

If you're looking for value, variety, and visual beauty, Vietnam in September offers the perfect mix.

Vietnam Weather in September

• North: Cooler and drier, especially in the mountains. Hanoi begins transitioning to autumn.

• Central: Still warm and sunny; beaches remain ideal.

• South: Rain continues but less intense; mornings are often bright and perfect for early exploration.

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in September

1. Mu Cang Chai

A crown jewel of September travel in Vietnam, Mu Cang Chai bursts into gold during this month. The rice terraces are at their ripest, shimmering under soft northern light.

• Top spots: La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and Tu Le

• Activities: Photography, trekking, ethnic market visits

• Why September? It’s the best (and only) time to witness golden harvest in full bloom, often with local festivals celebrating the season.

2. Sapa

In September, Sapa blends the green of the tail-end season with golden patches of rice nearly ready for harvest. The weather is cool, and the clouds lift often for striking valley views.

• Trek: Through Muong Hoa Valley, or up to Fansipan

• Experience: Overnight in H’mong homestays and visit harvest festivals

• Climate: Crisp mornings, clear afternoons, low humidity

3. Ha Giang

This remote province becomes accessible and photogenic in September. The Ha Giang Loop is drier and safer, and the early bloom of buckwheat flowers adds to the color palette.

• Drive: Through Ma Pi Leng Pass and the Dong Van Karst Plateau

• Stay: In minority-run homestays and discover ancient hilltop towns

• Why go? Breathtaking scenery with minimal tourist traffic and perfect trekking temperatures

4. Hanoi

Hanoi begins to cool down in September. The capital’s lakes, cafés, and colonial architecture are especially inviting in early autumn.

• Things to do: Explore West Lake, eat pho on misty mornings, visit Temple of Literature

• Cultural note: Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu) often falls in September—don’t miss the lantern-lit streets of the Old Quarter

• Best for: Food lovers, street photographers, and art explorers

5. Mai Chau

A peaceful valley of rice fields and ethnic Thai villages, Mai Chau is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in September for off-grid beauty.

• What to do: Cycle through stilt-house villages, take a cooking class, relax in rice-view lodges

• Why September? The rice is still golden, and the weather is cool for outdoor activities. Local festivals bring additional cultural depth.

6. Ninh Binh

Known as “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh’s limestone karsts rise from golden paddies and winding rivers. In September, it’s less humid, and boat rides are serene.

• See: Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, Trang An World Heritage Site

• Perfect for: Nature photographers, spiritual travelers, and romantic getaways

7. Pu Luong

Tucked between Hanoi and the central coast, Pu Luong is a rising eco-tourism region. Rice paddies terrace the hillsides and September offers clear skies for exploration.

• Stay: In eco-lodges or stilt houses surrounded by rice fields

• Do: Trek to waterfalls, visit minority markets, or relax in bamboo infinity pools

8. Da Nang

Central Vietnam’s star beach city still enjoys sunshine in early September. It’s a great time to visit before any mid-month rainfall sets in.

• Swim: At My Khe Beach or hike Monkey Mountain for sunset views

• Why go? Warm sea, clean air, and fewer crowds than summer. Ba Na Hills and its Golden Bridge are cooler and less crowded too.

9. Hoi An

Hoi An remains dry through most of September. Rice fields just outside town are golden, and the old town’s lanterns reflect beautifully on the river at night.

• See: Old Town UNESCO site, Tra Que Village, Cham Islands

• Experience: Evening lantern boat rides and local mooncake traditions during Mid-Autumn Festival

10. Hue

September marks the end of Hue’s dry season. It’s a great time to explore the imperial architecture without peak heat or crowds.

• Must-visit: Imperial City, tombs of emperors, riverside pagodas

• Culinary bonus: Try traditional vegetarian Buddhist meals during Vu Lan and Mid-Autumn celebrations

11. Quy Nhon

This tranquil beach town continues to offer warm, dry weather into September. The water is still calm, and it’s one of Vietnam’s least touristy beach escapes.

• Activities: Swimming, cliff hiking, island-hopping

• Try: Local rice noodles, banh xeo, and beachside seafood grills

12. Nha Trang

While the rainy season starts to approach, the first half of September is still beach-perfect. Hotels begin offering off-season rates.

• What to enjoy: Mud spas, underwater activities, seafood cruises

• Great for: Budget travelers and families who enjoy both beach and nightlife

13. Dalat

Cool, romantic Dalat starts blooming in early autumn. September offers clear mornings, floral gardens, and comfortable temperatures.

• Explore: Pine forests, waterfalls, hillside cafés

• Romantic idea: Pedal swan boats on Xuan Huong Lake or sip wine in a mountaintop café

14. Phu Quoc

Rain still falls here, but early mornings can be perfect for beach walks and diving. Fewer tourists = better prices.

• Good to know: West coast beaches like Long Beach get less rain

• Do: Explore pepper farms, go snorkeling, relax in a resort spa

15. Con Dao Islands

If you're seeking a serene, spiritually rich island retreat, Con Dao is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in September. Turtle nesting continues, and the beaches are stunningly quiet.

• See: Bay Canh Island turtle sanctuary, Dam Trau Beach

• Learn: About Vietnam’s history at the island’s colonial-era prisons

Travel Tips for Vietnam in September

• Pack light, breathable layers and a rain jacket

• Use trains or flights to jump between regions if weather varies

• Wake up early: Mornings are clearest in rainy areas

• Try local fruits: Guava, star apple, mangosteen, and dragon fruit are abundant

• Don’t miss: Mid-Autumn Festival performances in Hanoi, Hoi An, and major temples

Conclusion: Why September is Worth It

From terraced harvests in the northern hills to peaceful central beaches and cultural moments like Mid-Autumn lantern festivals, September balances nature, heritage, and relaxation. If you enjoy meaningful travel over mass tourism, and diversity in both landscape and culture, this month offers incredible opportunities.

Whether you’re a hiker, foodie, photographer, or honeymooner, the best places to visit in Vietnam in September promise beauty, quiet, and incredible value.

Want to plan around more than just September? Check out our full guide to the best time to visit Vietnam for a month-by-month breakdown of weather, culture, and ideal routes.

Read more:

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Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in February: Weather, Festivals & Top Destinations

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in March: A Local’s Guide to Ideal Weather and Scenic Spots