Best Places to Visit Vietnam in October – From Misty Mountains to Sunny Shores

Why Travel to Vietnam in October?

October is a top travel month for good reason. The rains recede, humidity drops, and much of the country enjoys calm, clear weather. It’s also a great time to catch natural beauty at its peak—like northern Vietnam’s buckwheat flowers and post-harvest fields.

• Crisp, clean air and blue skies in the north

• Golden or freshly harvested rice terraces in the highlands

• Central beaches become drier and calmer by mid-month

• Ideal balance of good weather, low prices, and fewer tourists

• Cultural experiences like full-moon ceremonies and rural festivals

Vietnam Weather in October

• North: Cool and mostly dry; perfect for trekking and outdoor sightseeing

• Central: Some lingering rains early in the month; drier by mid to late October

• South: Rain diminishes; warm days and clear mornings return

15 Best Places to Visit Vietnam in October

1. Ha Giang

October is Ha Giang at its most beautiful. The famous buckwheat flowers bloom in pastel pink and purple across the limestone valleys, creating a romantic, highland canvas. With the rain mostly gone and temperatures dropping, this is the best time to drive the Ha Giang Loop - one of Vietnam’s most stunning road trips.

• Must-see: Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van Old Town, Lung Cu Flagpole

• Don’t miss: Ethnic Sunday markets in Meo Vac or Quan Ba for traditional clothing, food, and buffalo trading

• Ideal for: Motorbike adventurers, nature photographers, and culture seekers

2. Mu Cang Chai

Early October still captures the magic of Mu Cang Chai’s golden rice terraces, especially around La Pan Tan and Che Cu Nha. With the harvest nearing completion, you’ll enjoy quiet trails and local celebrations. It’s an incredible place for hiking, drone photography, and connecting with Hmong culture.

• Highlights: Khau Pha Pass, waterfall hikes, and terraced viewpoints

• Best time: Visit in the first two weeks for peak color

• Tip: Stay in local stilt house homestays for authentic meals and mountain views

3. Sapa

October in Sapa offers cool, dry weather perfect for trekking through the misty hills. Though the rice harvest finishes by mid-September, the post-harvest landscapes remain beautiful, and the fresh air brings out Sapa’s alpine charm.

• Top treks: Lao Chai – Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai village circuit

• Scenic bonus: Ride the cable car to Fansipan for sweeping views above the clouds

• Cultural experiences: Sleep in Black H’mong or Red Dao family homestays

4. Hanoi

Autumn in Hanoi is a local favorite. The heat subsides, the air smells of milk flowers (hoa sữa), and the city slows down just enough to enjoy its café culture. Lakeside strolls in Hoan Kiem or West Lake are a must, and golden leaves add a cinematic feel.

• Must-do: Sip egg coffee in a rooftop café, visit the Temple of Literature, or bike around Truc Bach Lake

• Try: Green rice (cốm), a seasonal delicacy from Vong village

• Why go in October: It’s Hanoi’s most pleasant and photogenic month

5. Ninh Binh

October brings bright skies and comfortable temperatures to this limestone wonderland. The boat rides through Tam Coc or Trang An are peaceful, with fewer tourists and golden light bouncing off the cliffs and paddies.

• Top sites: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hang Mua viewpoint, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

• Activities: Boat rides, temple visits, scenic climbs

• Perfect for: Couples, families, and photographers

6. Pu Luong

This eco-retreat is especially tranquil in October. Terraced hills still hold the last of the harvest hues, while cool air and quiet trails make for a perfect escape.

• What to do: Trek to Hieu Waterfall, visit Don village, and bike through rice paddies

• Stay: In one of the many riverside eco-lodges or rustic stilt houses

• Why it stands out: Less touristy than Sapa, but just as scenic

7. Mai Chau

Located just three hours from Hanoi, Mai Chau in October is lush and peaceful. Rice may be recently harvested, but the valley is still green, and the air is fresh.

• Top experiences: Traditional dance shows, Thai embroidery workshops, and biking through villages like Lac and Pom Coong

• Local cuisine: Smoked pork, bamboo-cooked sticky rice, and home-brewed rice wine

• Best for: Cultural immersion and countryside tranquility

8. Da Nang

October marks the shift toward dry season in Da Nang. While early in the month may still see light showers, by mid-October the skies clear and the beaches become inviting again.

• Visit: My Khe Beach, Son Tra Peninsula, and the Marble Mountains

• Adventure: Take the Ba Na Hills cable car to the Golden Bridge for panoramic coastal views

• Good for: Beach lovers, foodies, and families looking for both city and sea

9. Hoi An

October in Hoi An can be unpredictable in the first week, but by the second half of the month, its lantern-lined streets come alive again. With fewer crowds and better weather, it’s ideal for exploring the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town.

• Must-do: Basket boat ride in Cam Thanh, cycling through rice fields, and tailor fittings

• Photo tip: Visit during the full moon for the Lantern Festival along the Thu Bon River

• Vibe: Romantic, nostalgic, and full of handcrafted charm

10. Hue

Hue enjoys a cooler and drier climate in October, making it easier to explore its historic sites. The city’s spiritual depth is enhanced by Buddhist celebrations and vegetarian food culture.

• See: Imperial Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Thien Mu Pagoda

• Eat: Bánh bèo, bún bò Huế, and lotus seed sweet soup

• Why visit now: Cultural depth meets calm riverside beauty

11. Quy Nhon

The central coast begins to dry out toward the end of October, and Quy Nhon’s quiet beaches and Cham history offer a peaceful break from busy tourist hubs.

• Do: Swim at Ky Co Beach, walk along Eo Gio cliffside, and explore Cham temples

• Eat: Bánh hỏi cháo lòng (fine rice noodles with porridge)

• Perfect for: Couples, explorers, and seafood fans

12. Dalat

Dalat’s crisp October air and rolling pine hills make it a cool, refreshing destination. Flowers begin to bloom, and the misty mornings give way to bright afternoons.

• Explore: Xuan Huong Lake, Langbiang Mountain, and the Dalat Flower Garden

• Eat: Avocado ice cream, grilled corn, and warm soy milk at the night market

• Why October?: Fewer rains, floral beauty, and romantic atmosphere

13. Ho Chi Minh City

The monsoon season fades by mid-October, making this a great time to rediscover Saigon’s markets, street food, and historic landmarks.

• Must-see: War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market

• Evenings: Rooftop bars like Chill Skybar or relaxing riverside dinners

• Travel tip: October often brings cool mornings and less traffic due to local travel dips

14. Phu Quoc

October is a shoulder season secret. Hotels are affordable, the beaches begin to clear, and the snorkeling around the An Thoi Archipelago starts to improve.

• Top activities: Sao Beach, island-hopping boat tours, night markets

• Bonus: Fish sauce workshops and pepper farm visits

• Who it suits: Island hoppers and honeymooners wanting space and deals

15. Con Dao Islands

Still calm and serene, Con Dao wraps up turtle nesting season in early October and welcomes travelers with empty beaches and clean coastal air.

• Explore: Hang Duong Cemetery, Bay Canh Island, and Con Dao National Park

• Why go now: Mild weather, fewer boats, and a spiritual ambiance

• Tip: Ideal for reflection, snorkeling, and off-grid relaxation

Tips for Traveling Vietnam in October

• Pack for variety: Northern Vietnam is cool and dry, while central and southern regions may still see some rain - bring layers and a light rain jacket.

• Book early in scenic spots: October is peak season for places like Ha Giang and Mu Cang Chai due to golden rice terraces - accommodations fill fast.

• Great for trekking: Clear skies and crisp air make this a top month for hiking and motorbiking in the north.

• Stay weather-aware in the central coast: Hoi An and Hue can still experience late-season storms -check forecasts and allow flexibility.

• Enjoy seasonal fruits: Try fresh pomelo, longan, and sticky rice dishes unique to the harvest season.

Conclusion

From mist-covered mountain passes and golden rice fields to lantern-lit towns and beachside sunsets, Vietnam in October is a feast for the senses. It’s one of those rare months when you can chase autumn in the highlands, catch sunshine by the sea, and still feel like the crowds haven’t arrived yet.

Whether you're into trekking, culture, food, or relaxation, the best places to visit Vietnam in October will inspire, refresh, and surprise you.

Want to compare October to other months? Don’t miss our full breakdown of the best time to visit Vietnam for tips on when—and where—to go each season.

Read more:

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
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in April: A Perfect Month to Explore All Regions