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Vietnam is long and diverse, and no matter where you go, you’ll find something special. On our two-week trip, we explored both the north and south, with a focus on culture, nature, and village life rather than cities or beaches. So did we enjoy more, the north or the south of Vietnam?
Here’s how the two regions compare, followed by a quick summary of our personal experience and who we think would enjoy each region the most.
Quick comparison: the north vs south of Vietnam
| Criteria | North of Vietnam | South of Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Main city | Hanoi | Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) |
| Climate | Tropical with a hot dry season and a very hot rainy season (May to November: heavy showers, may flood) | Very different depending on where you go, due to altitude. Rainy in summer. |
| Landscapes | Mountains, rice terraces, karst landscapes | Rivers, flat countryside |
| Culture & atmosphere | More traditional, strong ethnic diversity | More modern, dynamic, and fast-paced |
| History | Not a focus but opportunities to learn more about history on guided tours (especially at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in Ninh Binh and Hmong King Palace on the Ha Giang Loop) | Focused on history (especially the Vietnam War with the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels) |
| Nature escapes | Sapa, Ha Giang Loop, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Mai Chau | Mekong Delta |
| Road trips & scenic drives | Incredible road trips in the north (especially Ha Giang Loop) and beautiful scenic drives (Pu Luong was a highlight for us) | We didn’t find it scenic, even the road to the Mekong Delta |
| Best for slow travel | Yes – lots of quiet villages and homestays | Less so – destinations are more touristy |
| Accessibility | Some places are harder to reach, but rewarding | Generally easier access with better roads |
Have you thought about travel insurance?
We never go overseas without it, especially to cover medical expenses. In Vietnam, motorbike travel is common (for example, for the Ha Giang Loop or on city tours in Ho Chi Minh City), so we made sure our policy covered that. It’s something worth checking, as it’s not always included. Some providers, like Cover-More, offer options to easily include motorbike coverage if that’s relevant to your trip.
The time of year matters when choosing between north and south of Vietnam
The north has four distinct seasons, with spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) being the best times to visit. During these months, the weather is mild and ideal for trekking, scenic drives, and enjoying the mountain views. Winter (December to February) can get quite cold, especially in Sapa and Ha Giang, with misty conditions that sometimes limit visibility.
The south, on the other hand, is tropical year-round, with a dry season from December to April offering the most pleasant conditions. It’s a good time to explore the Mekong Delta or wander around Ho Chi Minh City without the intense humidity, and it’s not as hot as the second part of the year. The wet season (May to November) brings heavy showers, but they’re often short and manageable if you don’t mind the heat.
Best time to visit: north vs south of Vietnam
| Season | North of Vietnam | South of Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar – May) | Warm and dry – ideal for trekking and scenic views | Hot and dry – great for city visits and the Mekong |
| Summer (Jun – Aug) | Hot and humid, chance of heavy rain – but lush landscapes | Rainy season – daily downpours, high humidity |
| Autumn (Sep – Nov) | Cooler, dry, and clear – perfect for hiking and outdoor activities and the beautiful rice fields | Still wet early on, drying up by November |
| Winter (Dec – Feb) | Cold in the mountains – misty but fewer crowds | Dry season – warm and sunny, great for sightseeing |
Best time to visit if you like flowers
If you’re a flower lover, Vietnam has seasonal blooms that add a splash of colour to both cities and countryside. As we travelled through the north and south, locals often pointed out what was in season or told us what to come back for. Here’s what we were told to expect depending on the season:
| Season | North of Vietnam | South of Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar – May) | The mountain ebony flower (ban flower) blooms in March, especially in Hanoi and the northern mountains. Lush green rice fields in Pu Luong (Apr–May). | Green rice paddies in the Mekong Delta (Feb–Mar) then golden fields before harvest (April–early May). |
| Summer (Jun – Aug) | Lotus blossoms bloom around lakes in July. Green rice fields across Sapa and Ha Giang. | Lotus blossoms bloom around lakes in July. |
| Autumn (Sep – Nov) | Buckwheat flowers cover the Dong Van Karst Plateau in Ha Giang in October. Golden rice terraces in Sapa and Ha Giang (late Aug–early Oct) and green fields in Pu Luong (Sep). | Green rice paddies in the Mekong Delta (Feb–Mar), then golden fields before harvest (April–early May). |
| Winter (Dec – Feb) | Pink peach blossoms brighten up cities in January. In late February, white plum blossoms bloom around Sapa. | The yellow apricot blossom is everywhere during Tet (Lunar New Year) – it’s the iconic flower of the South. |
Our experience in the north of Vietnam (end of May)
The north completely stole our hearts. Ninh Binh was our first real taste of dramatic scenery with karst peaks, rice paddies, and peaceful boat rides through caves. Then we headed to Pu Luong, which felt like a hidden gem. We stayed in a small eco-lodge surrounded by terraced rice fields, and it was a highlight of the trip.
We also made it to Sapa and the Ha Giang Loop, both absolutely breathtaking. The mountain landscapes in Ha Giang were the most spectacular we saw in Vietnam – winding roads, deep valleys, and colourful minority villages. Sapa was more commercial but still worth visiting for the hikes to villages with views over endless field terraces and to learn about ethnic minority groups.
We also spent time in Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter alternative to Halong Bay. Cruising through the limestone karsts felt like floating through a dream. The whole area is part of the Halong Bay UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its outstanding natural beauty and geological value.
Unsure which destinations to add to your itinerary in North Vietnam? These comparisons can help: Sapa vs Ha Giang Loop, Ninh Binh vs Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh vs Sapa.
Our experience in the south of Vietnam (early June)
The south for us was mostly Ho Chi Minh City. We booked tours to explore the city, including the famous War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels, which gave us great insight into the country’s recent history. Then we headed to the Mekong Delta, where we cruised the canals, visited a coconut business and Ben Tre brick factory. You could stay in a peaceful riverside homestay, but we only had time for a day trip.
It was a relaxing and interesting experience, but we felt we didn’t learn that much about life on the water. The landscape is very flat and nothing extraordinary. For nature lovers who enjoy hiking or mountain views, it’s probably not the most exciting region.
So is it better to visit the north or the south of Vietnam?
For us, the north of Vietnam was a lot better to visit.
If you’re a nature lover, cultural explorer, or someone who enjoys road trips and slower travel, the north offers more variety and depth. It can be a bit more challenging to get around, but the rewards are worth it.
On the other hand, the south of Vietnam is easier to travel to and has fascinating historical sights. It’s ideal if you’re short on time, or if you’re more interested in food, city life, or guided day trips.
Who will prefer the north of Vietnam:
- Travellers looking for mountain landscapes and village life
- Those interested in trekking, scenic drives, and authentic homestays
- Anyone who prefers a cooler climate and a more traditional vibe
- Travellers who like visiting UNESCO-listed natural sites
- Those travelling during the rainy season (May to October) who want to avoid the monsoon – the north is generally less humid and more comfortable than the south at this time
Who will prefer the south of Vietnam:
- Travellers keen to learn about Vietnam War history
- Visitors short on time whose international flight lands in Ho Chi Minh City
- Travellers visiting in winter (Dec–Feb) who want to avoid the cold and enjoy dry, sunny days
Have you been to the north and south of Vietnam? Which one is the best? Share your experience in the comments below!
How about the central region?
If you have time to include central Vietnam, I highly recommend it. I personally enjoyed it more than the south. We visited Hoi An and Hue and loved the balance of culture, history, and atmosphere. Hoi An may be touristy, but it still feels special with its fascinating blend of cultural influences. Hue and its imperial sites gave us a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history. The food in central Vietnam was also some of the best we had. It’s a great region if you’re after a more cultural and relaxed experience, and the weather is usually best in spring and autumn.
Not sure whether to visit Hue or Hoi An and don’t have time for both? I’ve created a detailed comparison to help you choose the right one for your itinerary.
Where are the north and south of Vietnam?
Vietnam is a long, narrow country stretching from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, next to Cambodia on the Gulf of Thailand. There are many domestic flights between Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam’s biggest city, located in the south) and Hanoi (the country’s capital, in the north).
Planning a trip to Vietnam? Save this comparison on Pinterest so you can find it easily later!
