Best place to visit Vietnam in May & Important travel tips 2024

Best place to vist Vietnam in May

The best place to visit Vietnam in May depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here are some of the top options, considering the weather in different regions:

• Northern Vietnam: May is a shoulder season in Northern Vietnam, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. This is a great time to visit Hanoi, the capital city, as well as Sa Pa, a beautiful town in the Hoang Lien Son mountains famous for its rice terraces. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, is also a great option in May.

SAPA VIETNAM in May

Sapa is a great choice for a visit in May! The weather is pleasant with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the stunning rice terraces and surrounding mountains. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 3-day trip to Sapa in May:

Day 1: Arrival and Sapa Town Exploration

• In the morning, arrive in Sapa either by bus from Hanoi (5-6 hours) or by train on the scenic Lao Cai Railway ( referred to as the “Roof of Indochina”).
• Check into your hotel and leave your luggage.
• Take a walk around Sapa town, exploring the Sapa Market where you can find a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local produce from the Hmong and Dao ethnic groups.

• Visit the Sapa Catholic Church, a beautiful French colonial church built in the early 20th century.

• In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese dishes.
• In the evening, take a stroll along the Love Lake (Hoan Kiem Lake), a scenic spot in the center of town.

Day 2: Trekking and Rice Terraces

• This is the day for your big adventure! Embark on a trek through the breathtaking rice terraces surrounding Sapa. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. A popular option is the trek to Cat Cat Village, a traditional Hmong village with beautiful rice terraces and stunning mountain views.
• Learn about the local culture and way of life from your guide.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at a homestay in the village.
• In the afternoon, continue your trek to another village or waterfall, depending on your fitness level and interests.
• In the evening, return to Sapa town and relax with a traditional massage or soak in a hot tub (optional).

Day 3: More Exploration and Departure

• On your last day, you can visit the Ham Rong Flower Garden, a beautiful garden with a variety of flowers and plants.

• Take a cable car ride up Fansipan Mountain, the highest peak in Vietnam, for stunning panoramic views (weather permitting).
• If you have time, visit the Sapa Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region.
• In the afternoon, depart Sapa and head back to Hanoi or your next destination in Vietnam.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Sapa in May:

• Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
• Pack comfortable shoes for trekking.
• Bring a light rain jacket in case of unexpected showers.
• The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can exchange your currency at the airport or in town.
• Bargaining is expected at markets and with some vendors.
• Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but it is appreciated by service staff.

 

 

Central Vietnam: Central Vietnam has less rain in May than other parts of the country, making it a great time to visit the beach resorts like Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hoi An. Hoi An, with its charming ancient town and tailor-made clothes, is particularly enjoyable in May with sunny days and cool nights.

 

 

Sure, absolutely! Da Nang and Hoi An are perfect destinations to visit in May. The weather is pleasant with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the beaches, historical sites, and charming towns. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 4-day trip to Da Nang and Hoi An:

Day 1: Arrival in Da Nang and My Khe Beach

• In the morning, arrive at Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
• Check into your hotel in Da Nang and leave your luggage.
• In the afternoon, head to My Khe Beach, a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear blue water. Relax on the beach, go for a swim, or try some water sports activities like surfing or kayaking.

 

• In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 2: Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills

• In the morning, visit the Marble Mountains, a group of five marble and limestone mountains that have been sculpted into religious sites. Climb up the many steps to reach the caves, pagodas, and temples at the top and enjoy the panoramic views of Da Nang.
• In the afternoon, take a cable car ride up Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort complex with stunning French colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and a giant Buddha statue.

• Explore the various attractions at Ba Na Hills, such as the Fantasy Park, the Debay Wine Cellar, and the Linh Ung Pagoda.
• In the evening, return to Da Nang and enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the city center.

Day 3: Hoi An Ancient Town

• In the morning, take a day trip to Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 30 kilometers from Da Nang. Hoi An is a charming town with narrow streets lined with colorful traditional houses, tailor shops, and souvenir stores.

• Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Tan Ky House (a traditional wooden house), and the Phung Hung Ancient Street.
• In the afternoon, enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant in the old town.
• In the evening, take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River and experience the magic of Hoi An when the colorful lanterns are lit.

Day 4: Departure or Relax by the beach

• Depending on your departure flight time, you can relax at the beach in Da Nang or Hoi An in the morning.
• In the afternoon, head to the airport and catch your flight back home.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Da Nang and Hoi An in May:

• Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
• Pack light clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Bring a light rain jacket or umbrella in case of unexpected showers.
• The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can exchange your currency at the airport or in town.
• Bargaining is expected at markets and with some vendors.
• Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but it is appreciated by service staff.

I hope this suggested itinerary helps you plan your trip to Da Nang and Hoi An in May!

 

 

Southern Vietnam: Southern Vietnam is hot and humid in May, with the rainy season starting. However, there are still plenty of sunny intervals, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak season. Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam, is a great place to visit in May, with plenty of things to see and do. You can also explore the Mekong Delta, a network of rivers and canals that is home to a unique way of life.

 

 

Heads up for May travel!

• Weather:While May brings some rain showers to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, they’re usually quick bursts. Pack light clothes, an umbrella, and sandals that dry fast – you’ll still be basking in the warm sunshine!
• Cheers to fewer crowds!May is shoulder season, so expect shorter lines at sights and potentially sweeter deals on hotels.
• Haggling 101:Bargaining is a fun part of shopping in Vietnam, especially at markets. Be polite but firm to get the best price.
• Dong Dependency:Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Swap your cash at the airport, banks, or exchange shops.
• Visa-fy This Trip:Depending on where you’re from, you might need a visa. Check with your local Vietnamese embassy or consulate for the latest info.
• Getting Around:Ho Chi Minh City has taxis, metered motorbikes (xe om), buses, and a metro. Explore the Mekong Delta by boat, bike, motorbike, or car.

Let’s get this adventure started!

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City Arrival

• Welcome to Tan Son Nhat International Airport!
• Check into your comfy spot in District 1, the heart of the tourist action.
• In the afternoon, swing by the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral, a French colonial gem.
• Next stop: Ben Thanh Market! This bustling spot is full of souvenirs, local eats, and a chance to practice your bargaining skills.
• End your day with a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning city views.

Day 2: War History and Puppet Magic

• Buckle up for a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels! Explore this network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war. Be prepared to crouch a bit – it’s part of the adventure!
• In the afternoon, head to the War Remnants Museum to learn more about the Vietnam War through artifacts and photos.
• In the evening, be amazed by a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show – a unique cultural experience!

Day 3: Mekong Delta Day Trip

• Time to explore the Mekong Delta, a fascinating maze of rivers and canals!
• Choose a tour that tickles your fancy – visit the Cai Rang Floating Market, cruise through Ben Tre province, or discover Vinh Long province.
• Hop on a boat to explore the canals, visit local villages, and soak up the unique Mekong Delta way of life. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a delicious lunch of fresh local seafood!

Day 4: Free Day Fun or Shopping Spree

• It’s your day to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace!
• Check out some cool sights like the Reunification Palace, the Central Post Office, or the Jade Emperor Pagoda.
• Feeling like a shopaholic? Hit up Saigon Square or Tax Trade Center for some retail therapy.
• As evening falls, enjoy a farewell dinner on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a pedestrian-only paradise with restaurants, bars, and shops.

Day 5: Farewell, Ho Chi Minh City!

• Depending on your flight, do some last-minute shopping or relax at your hotel before catching your flight home from Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

This is just a suggestion, feel free to mix and match these activities to create your perfect Vietnamese adventure!