Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, is the most anticipated holiday of the year , a time when the entire country slows down yet bursts with color, culture, and emotion. Planning a Vietnam trip during Tet can be both exciting and challenging. With the right preparation, it can become one of the most memorable journeys you’ll ever take. Here’s everything you need to know to plan it right.

When Is Tet and How It Affects Travel Plans

Tet usually falls between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar. In 2026, Tet will officially begin on February 17, but the festive mood starts about a week earlier and lasts up to ten days afterward.

During this period, Vietnamese people travel back to their hometowns, leading to packed buses, trains, and domestic flights. Many businesses temporarily close, and big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City may feel quieter than usual for a few days. However, the pre-Tet days are full of energy , flower markets bloom, streets sparkle with decorations, and everyone is busy preparing for the new year.

If you’re planning your trip during this time, book accommodation and transportation early, ideally 3–4 weeks in advance. Choose central hotels or boutique homestays that remain open during the holiday to avoid last-minute surprises.

Where to Go During Tet: The Best Destinations for a Festive Experience

Traveling in Vietnam during Tet offers a unique chance to see how traditions come alive in different regions.

In Hanoi, the atmosphere is steeped in nostalgia. Locals visit temples like Tran Quoc Pagoda to pray for luck, while Old Quarter streets are filled with the fragrance of peach blossoms and kumquat trees. The Hoan Kiem Lake area glows with lights and festive energy, especially on New Year’s Eve when fireworks illuminate the sky.

If you head to Hue or Hoi An, expect a slower but deeply cultural experience. These ancient towns honor tradition through ancestral ceremonies, calligraphy booths, and lantern festivals. Hoi An, in particular, looks magical at night when lanterns float on the river and locals exchange New Year’s wishes.

Down south in Ho Chi Minh City, Tet feels more modern and vibrant. The Nguyen Hue Flower Street is a visual spectacle, while locals celebrate with music, food stalls, and lively street performances. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, escape to Da Lat or Sapa, where misty mountains and blooming flowers create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful holiday.

Each destination reflects a different spirit of Tet , from Hanoi’s heritage to Saigon’s celebration, there’s no wrong choice, only different shades of magic.

What to Expect During Tet: Closures, Customs, and Local Etiquette

Tet is a time for family, so many restaurants, shops, and attractions close for several days starting on New Year’s Eve. However, tourist-friendly destinations often keep essential services open, especially hotels, airports, and major attractions.

Public transport can be limited right before and after Tet due to heavy local travel. To manage this, consider staying put in one city for a few days rather than moving between multiple destinations. This will allow you to soak in the festive spirit without the stress of travel disruptions.

Culturally, Tet is full of symbolic gestures. Red and gold decorations represent luck and prosperity, while “Li Xi” , small red envelopes with money , symbolize blessings for the year ahead. If you’re invited to a local’s home, bring a small gift like fruit, tea, or sweets. Avoid black or white clothing, which are associated with mourning.

Be open, polite, and observant , locals truly appreciate travelers who show respect for their traditions. Want to make your Tet journey even more personal? Book a Local Buddy on Tubudd to celebrate Tet like a true local

Things to Do During Tet: Celebrate Like a Local

There’s no better way to experience Tet than to take part in its celebrations. Here are some experiences to include in your travel plan:

• Visit local markets such as Hanoi’s Quang Ba Flower Market or Saigon’s Ben Thanh Market before Tet to see the festive shopping rush.
• Join a temple visit on the first or second day of Tet to observe how locals pray for luck and happiness.
• Enjoy Tet cuisine like Bánh Chưng, pickled vegetables, and candied fruits , each dish carries symbolic meaning.
• Watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve in major cities. Arrive early to get a good viewing spot.
• Stroll through flower streets or villages, where the air is fragrant with new beginnings.

These experiences go beyond sightseeing , they offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural heart and the warmth of its people during the most special time of the year.

Tips for Planning a Smooth Tet Holiday Trip

• Book early: Flights, trains, and hotels fill up fast. Reserve everything at least a month in advance.
• Prepare cash: Many ATMs run low during Tet, and smaller vendors may not accept cards.
• Be flexible: Some closures are inevitable, so plan relaxing days and spontaneous exploration.
• Embrace the slowdown: Tet is about reflection and joy, not rushing from one place to another.
• Learn a few local greetings: Saying “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Happy New Year) can make locals smile instantly.

Traveling during Tet is not about perfect itineraries,  it’s about living in the moment, sharing joy, and witnessing the beauty of Vietnamese tradition unfold before your eyes.