Weather in Hanoi

Discover the weather awaiting you in Hanoi! In this section, we have gathered current data, charts, and forecasts to keep you fully informed.

The climate in Hanoi is classified as humid subtropical, which means there are distinct seasons with noticeable fluctuations in temperature and humidity throughout the year. Visitors to the city can expect a hot and humid summer, followed by a cooler and relatively dry winter. Spring and autumn serve as comfortable transitional periods, offering moderate temperatures and less rainfall compared to the summer months.

The hottest months are June and July, when the average air temperature hovers around 30°C. At the same time, in winter months such as December and January, the average temperature drops to 17-18°C, creating a cooler atmosphere. A distinctive feature of the local climate is the pronounced rainy season, which usually lasts from May to September. During this period, significant rainfall occurs, and August often becomes the wettest month, characterised by the highest number of rainy days. In contrast, the months from November to April are distinguished by significantly less rainfall and drier weather.

The temperature regime in Hanoi is characterised by noticeable seasonal changes, offering diverse conditions for travellers throughout the year. The hottest months are typically June and July, when the average temperature reaches 30.3°C and 29.9°C respectively, and daytime highs can rise to 33.5°C. Conversely, the coolest months are January with an average temperature of 17.3°C and December (17.5°C), when night-time lows can drop to 14°C. Thus, the annual range of average temperatures is quite wide, allowing you to choose the most comfortable time to visit depending on your preferences.

Summer in Hanoi, which lasts roughly from May to September, is distinguished by heat and high humidity. During this period, average daytime temperatures consistently stay above 30°C, especially in June (highs up to 33.5°C) and July (highs up to 33.1°C). Nights also remain very warm, with temperatures rarely falling below 25-27°C. Such weather creates a sensation of tropical heat, which is worth being prepared for when planning a trip for the summer months.

The winter period, covering December, January, and February, brings pleasant coolness to Hanoi. Average temperatures in these months fluctuate between 17.3°C and 18.8°C. During the day, the air can warm up to 20-22°C, creating comfortable conditions for walking and sightseeing, while at night the temperature may drop to 14-16°C. The fluctuation between day and night temperatures throughout the year averages 6-7°C, which is moderate and does not create sharp contrasts.

Precipitation in Hanoi has a distinct seasonal character, dividing the year into wet and dry periods. The rainy season usually falls on the summer and early autumn months, while winter and spring are characterised by significantly less rainfall. Snow is uncharacteristic for Hanoi, so all precipitation falls primarily as rain.

The wettest period in Hanoi is the interval from May to September. The peak of precipitation occurs in August, when an average of about 13 mm of rainfall occurs, and the number of rainy days reaches 26. July and September are also distinguished by high humidity: in July about 9 mm of precipitation falls with 22 rainy days, and in September – 10 mm with the same number of rainy days. During these months, rains can be intense and frequent, which is typical for the region's monsoon climate.

The dry season in Hanoi lasts roughly from November to April. At this time, the amount of precipitation decreases significantly. The driest month is December, when only about 1 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days averages 7. January, February, and November are also characterised by low rainfall levels (about 2 mm) and a small number of rainy days (from 8 to 12). In these months, if precipitation occurs, it usually takes the form of light or short-lived rains.

When planning a trip to Hanoi, it is important to consider its pronounced seasonality. For the summer months (roughly from May to September), when the temperature often exceeds 30°C and high humidity with frequent rains is observed, especially in July and August (up to 22-26 rainy days), pack light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses will be perfect. Definitely bring a reliable umbrella or raincoat, as well as waterproof shoes or sandals that dry quickly. Do not forget sunscreen with high SPF, a hat, and sunglasses for protection against the active sun.

In the cooler and drier season, which lasts roughly from November to March, average temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C, and rainfall is minimal (1-2 mm). During this time, you will need warmer clothing: jeans or trousers, long-sleeved t-shirts, sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a light jacket or windbreaker, especially for evening walks when the temperature can drop to 14-16°C. The principle of layering will be very useful here, allowing you to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day. Regardless of the season, comfortable shoes for walking are an absolute necessity, as Hanoi invites long walking explorations of its streets and sights.

For transitional months, such as April and October, when the weather can be changeable, combine wardrobe elements for warm and cool weather. A light cardigan or jacket will come in handy in case of evening coolness or unexpected rain. A light scarf or stole can also be a useful accessory, protecting you from the sun during the day or warming you in the evening. Always have a small first aid kit with basic medicines and insect repellent with you, especially if you plan trips to nature or walks in the evening time.