12 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam On Tet Holiday

Are you excited about Tet, the Vietnamese version of the Lunar New Year? This is the most important celebration of Vietnamese culture, and the whole country is buzzing with excitement. You definitely don’t want to miss out on all the festivities, so let’s dive into the top places to go!

Hanoi

As the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is a must-visit destination during Lunar New Year. During Tet, you can witness traditional ceremonies at Hoan Kiem Lake or check out the local festivities at Dong Xuan Market. Don’t forget to try the local street food and visit historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or the Temple of Literature.

Mộc Châu plateau

Moc Chau is a lovely place to visit during the Lunar New Year in Vietnam. It’s a popular destination for travelers, and during Tet, it’s even more stunning.

The end of January to February is the perfect time to go because you’ll get to see the plum blossoms and sakura in full bloom. It’s like walking through a heavenly garden! You can also admire the beautiful scenery of tea plantations and vast fields of flowers.

There are several homestays and resorts in Moc Chau where you can stay and enjoy the fresh air and local cuisine. My personal favorite is the Milk Flower Valley homestay, which is surrounded by gardens of white milk flowers.

Tam Đảo

Tam Dao is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It is always cooler here than in other parts of Vietnam, so you can enjoy the cold weather and the beautiful scenery of the mountains and forests.

You can visit the Silver Waterfall, which is about 50 meters high, or the Van Pagoda, which has a stunning view of the surrounding area. If you’re a foodie, don’t forget to try the chayote and Hill chicken, which are specialties of this region.

Sapa

Sapa is one of my favorite places to visit in Vietnam during Tet holiday.

It’s a mountainous region in Northern Vietnam with stunning terraced fields and highland villages. The colorful brocade fabric and Hoang Lien Son range make for some incredible photo opportunities.

I highly recommend taking a Sapa Trekking tour to explore the villages and learn more about the local culture. You can also take a cable car to Fansipan Peak, which is the highest mountain in Indochina. It’s an unforgettable experience, trust me!

Hue

I absolutely love this ancient city in central Vietnam, which is famous for its historical sites and traditional Hue cuisine. During Tet, you can witness the traditional ceremonies at the Hue Citadel, where people offer incense and pray for good fortune. Be sure to try dishes like Bun Bo Hue and Banh Khoai – you won’t regret it!

Hoi An

My personal favorite spot is Hoi An, a small town with well-preserved ancient architecture that dates back to the 15th to 19th century. It’s like you’re stepping back in time!

You should plan to spend at least 2-3 days here to truly experience all that it has to offer.

Walking around the town during the Lunar New Year, you will see colorful lanterns and flowers everywhere. You can visit the Japanese Bridge, the ancient houses, and the local markets, where you can buy traditional souvenirs and taste delicious local food.

I also recommend taking a cooking class and learning how to make some Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls or pho. It’s a fun and educational experience! Learning how to make lanterns is also a great way to make the most of your time here.

Da Lat

Without a doubt, visiting Da Lat in the blooming season is an excellent plan for your Tet holiday. The city is known for its cool weather and beautiful flowers. You can rent a motorbike and explore the city, stopping at various flower gardens and coffee shops along the way.

You can also visit the famous Crazy House, which is an architectural masterpiece created by a Vietnamese architect, Dang Viet Nga. It’s a unique and surreal experience that you won’t forget.

Mui Ne

Mui Ne is about 200 km away from Ho Chi Minh City and is known for its beautiful beaches and sand dunes. During Tet, you can participate in the local celebrations at the Mui Ne fishing village or visit the Phan Thiet Night Market to try local street food. You can also go on a sandboarding adventure on the red sand dunes or take a boat tour to see the nearby fishing villages.

Con Dao Islands

For those seeking some peace and quiet, the Con Dao Islands off the southern coast of Vietnam are perfect. You can visit the Con Dao prison to learn about the island’s history or participate in the local festivities at the Con Dao Night Market. Don’t miss the opportunity to go snorkeling or diving to explore the incredible marine life around the islands.

Nha Trang

This coastal city in central Vietnam is another must-visit destination for beach lovers. During Tet, you can witness traditional ceremonies at the Ponagar Cham Towers or check out the local festivities at the Dam Market. Be sure to try the local seafood dishes and go on a boat tour to explore the nearby islands.

Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re looking for a bustling metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City won’t disappoint. You can shop for souvenirs at the Ben Thanh Market or participate in the local festivities at Tao Dan Park. Make sure to try the local street food and visit historical sites like the War Remnants Museum or the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Da Nang

Da Nang is known for its beautiful beaches, bridges, and mountains. You can witness traditional ceremonies at the Dragon Bridge or check out the local festivities at Asia Park. Rent a motorbike to explore the nearby Marble Mountains or try local seafood dishes like Banh Trang Cuon or Bun Cha Ca.

Some tips for traveling on Tet holiday

When visiting these destinations during Lunar New Year, there are some tips that I recommend you keep in mind:

1. Avoid 1st of Tet: The first few days of the Lunar New Year are a time when Vietnamese people stop all business activities and spend time with their families. That means that all stores and restaurants will be closed, so plan accordingly. Travel before Tet or from the 3th day onward.
2. Book in advance: The Lunar New Year is the busiest time of the year in Vietnam, so it’s essential to book your accommodation, transportation, and tours in advance to avoid any unexpected hassles.
3. Be aware of price hikes: Keep in mind that the prices for food and transportation may be a bit higher because it’s the holiday season.
4. Be mindful of cultural customs: During Tet, Vietnamese people follow many customs and traditions that might be unfamiliar to foreigners. It’s crucial to be respectful and mindful of these customs, such as wearing red clothes for good luck, bringing gifts to hosts, and avoiding taboo activities.
5. Be prepared for crowds: Most of the destinations in Vietnam will be packed with domestic tourists during Tet, so be prepared for crowds and long queues. It’s best to plan your itinerary wisely and avoid peak hours if possible.
6. Try the local cuisine: Vietnam is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, and Lunar New Year is the perfect time to try some traditional dishes that are only available during this time. Don’t miss out on specialties like Banh Chung, Mut Tet, and dried candied fruits.
7. Have fun and enjoy the festive atmosphere: Lunar New Year is a time of joy and celebration, and Vietnamese people love to have fun and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Join in the local festivities, watch the dragon dances, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere to experience the true spirit of Tet.

I hope these tips and recommendations will help you plan a memorable Lunar New Year trip to Vietnam. Don’t hesitate to ask me if you have any more questions or need further assistance. Happy travels!