Every year, Vietnam transforms into a colorful, heartwarming celebration during Tet – the Lunar New Year. Red banners flutter in the breeze, families gather to honor their ancestors, and the streets buzz with anticipation for new beginnings. For travelers, Tet is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Vietnam’s culture at its purest. But is Tet a good time to visit Vietnam? Let’s explore the beauty, the chaos, and everything in between.

1. What Makes Tet So Special in Vietnam

Tet (Tết Nguyên Đán) is the most important holiday of the year for Vietnamese people. It celebrates the arrival of spring according to the lunar calendar, typically falling between late January and mid-February. The festival lasts about a week, but preparations start much earlier.

Everywhere you go, you’ll see families cleaning their homes to welcome good luck, flower markets blooming with peach blossoms and kumquat trees, and the air filled with the scent of sticky rice cakes steaming for the new year feast. The energy is infectious, filled with warmth, excitement, and a sense of renewal.

For travelers, this period offers a fascinating window into local traditions. It’s the perfect time to see how deeply family, community, and spirituality intertwine in Vietnamese culture.

2. The Pros: Why Visiting Vietnam During Tet Can Be Amazing

One of the biggest reasons Tet is a good time to visit Vietnam is the atmosphere. The entire country seems to slow down, yet radiates joy. Major cities like Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City become beautifully decorated with red and gold symbols of prosperity.

If you visit during Tet, you can:

• Witness authentic traditions like giving lucky money (“lì xì”), making offerings to ancestors, and enjoying special Tet foods such as bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) or bánh tét (cylindrical sticky rice cake).
• Join local celebrations in public spaces, from fireworks on New Year’s Eve to lion dances and cultural parades.
• Enjoy fewer tourists in major attractions since many international visitors avoid traveling during Tet, leaving popular sites pleasantly quiet.
• Experience deep cultural immersion if you travel with locals or stay in homestays where families may invite you to share Tet meals and customs.

It’s a rare moment where the country opens its heart, showing a side that even many travelers miss.

3. The Cons: What You Should Be Prepared For

While Tet is culturally rich, it’s not without its challenges. Many businesses, restaurants, and even some tourist attractions close for several days so employees can spend time with their families. Transportation, especially trains, flights, and buses, can be fully booked or more expensive than usual.

If you’re planning to travel between cities, make sure to:

• Book tickets early, ideally one month in advance.
• Confirm hotel reservations directly, since smaller family-run hotels may temporarily close.
• Have flexible plans, as certain local services may be unavailable.

Despite these logistical hurdles, many travelers find that the peaceful streets, smiling locals, and festive energy far outweigh the inconveniences. The key is to plan ahead and embrace the slower pace.

4. The Best Places to Visit During Tet

Not all parts of Vietnam experience Tet in the same way. Depending on what you want to see, different regions offer unique experiences:

• Hanoi: The capital becomes calm and nostalgic, with locals visiting temples like Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quán Thánh Temple. Before Tet, visit flower markets like Quảng Bá for stunning photo opportunities.
• Hoi An: This charming ancient town hosts colorful lantern festivals, folk performances, and Tet-themed decorations that bring the old town to life.
• Hue: Known for its royal heritage, Hue offers traditional ceremonies at pagodas and quiet beauty along the Perfume River.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Bustling before Tet, the city bursts with flower streets and festive lights, especially around Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
• Sapa or Ha Giang: If you want something more peaceful, the mountain regions offer serene landscapes and authentic ethnic celebrations in villages.

Whether you crave cultural immersion or quiet reflection, Tet provides both.

5. Tips to Make the Most of Tet in Vietnam

To enjoy Tet without stress, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Exchange greetings respectfully: “Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” means “Happy New Year.”
• Carry some small red envelopes to give lucky money if you’re invited into a home.
• Avoid visiting homes uninvited on the first day of Tet, as the first visitor is believed to influence luck for the whole year.
• Pack patience and curiosity; delays may happen, but unexpected moments often become your best memories.
• Join a local celebration: From street parades to fireworks displays, there’s always something special happening.

For a deeper understanding, you can connect with a Tubudd Local Buddy, who can help you join authentic family gatherings, explore local customs, and navigate the Tet period with insider knowledge. It’s the best way to feel like part of the community rather than just a visitor.

6. So, Is Tet a Good Time to Visit Vietnam?

Absolutely, if you’re not looking for a typical tourist trip. Tet offers a chance to experience Vietnam’s heart and soul. It’s less about sightseeing and more about feeling the rhythm of local life. The country’s festive warmth, the symbolism of renewal, and the generosity of its people make it an unforgettable time to visit.

If you travel with an open mind, flexibility, and respect for traditions, Tet can be the most meaningful journey you’ll ever have in Vietnam.