| Region | Weather in May | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi and Ninh Binh | about 24 to 33 °C, hot, humid, storms | fine if you start early |
| Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay | hot, storms possible | good before summer |
| Sapa and Ha Giang | mild, first rains, terraces turning green | fair |
| Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An | hot, dry, sunny | very good for the beach |
| Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc | hot, daily showers begin | sightsee in the morning |
The north
Start sightseeing at opening time: the heat builds by midday and storms often arrive late in the day. Keep museums and cafés for the afternoon (see Hanoi in 2 days). Ninh Binh looks good with the rice fields turning green. For the bay, compare the day cruise and the overnight cruise, with free cancellation in case of bad weather.
The centre: May's best choice
Hoi An and Da Nang are in their best season for sea and beach according to guides. A direct flight from Hanoi takes about 1 hour 20: see Hanoi to Hoi An and Da Nang.
The south
The rainy season starts: short but heavy showers late in the day, heavy heat. To choose between north and south, see Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Before and after
For milder April, see Vietnam in April; for what follows, Vietnam in June; for a yearly view, when to visit Hanoi.
FAQ
Is May a good time to visit Vietnam? Yes for the centre; the north is hot and stormy, the south rainy.
What is the temperature in Hanoi in May? About 24 to 33 °C according to guides.
Should I worry about typhoons in May? The risk is low; the season starts rather in summer.
