Vietnam Lunar New Year Travel Guide 2026: 10 Best Places to Visit During Tet Holiday

Vietnam Lunar New Year, also known as Tet holiday, is the most important and meaningful celebration in Vietnam. Many visitors wonder if Vietnam Tet holiday is a good time to travel, especially with concerns about closures and crowds.

In this guide, Prime Travel will help you decide if traveling during Tet is right for you. You will learn what to expect, the pros and cons, and how travel changes during the Vietnam Tet holiday. We also cover the 10 best places to visit during Tet holiday in Vietnam, along with practical tips if you decide to travel during this time.

When Is Vietnam Lunar New Year 2026?

Vietnam Lunar New Year 2026, commonly known as Tet holiday, is expected to begin on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, marking the first day of the lunar calendar. This is the most important celebration in Vietnam, symbolizing family reunion, new beginnings, and good fortune.

For 2026, the official public holiday for workers is from February 14 to February 22, giving a total of 9 days off, including weekends. During this time, many businesses close or operate with limited hours as locals return to their hometowns.

Knowing the exact Vietnam Lunar New Year dates and public holiday period is essential for travelers planning to visit Vietnam during the Tet holiday, especially for booking flights, hotels, and tours in advance.

What to Expect When Traveling to Vietnam During Tet

Traveling to Vietnam during Tet holiday is a unique experience that feels very different from visiting at other times of the year. In the days leading up to Lunar New Year, cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City become lively with flower markets, red and gold decorations, and families preparing for celebrations.

You will see peach blossoms in the North, yellow apricot flowers in the South, and festive displays everywhere. However, as Tet holiday officially begins, many locals travel back to their hometowns, making big cities quieter than usual.

At the same time, travelers should expect some changes in daily services. Many small shops, local restaurants, and family-run businesses close for several days during Tet holiday. Public transport, flights, and hotels may be busier and more expensive than normal, especially right before and after Lunar New Year’s Day.

On the positive side, major tourist attractions, shopping malls, and hotels usually remain open. Guided tours and cruises often operate with limited schedules. If you love learning about exotic culture, visiting Vietnam during Tet can be rewarding, offering a rare chance to witness local traditions, cultural rituals, and festive moments that most travelers never see.

Read more>>Should I visit Vietnam during Tet holiday?

Pros and Cons of Visiting Vietnam During Tet Holiday

To answer the question “Is Tet a good time to visit Vietnam?”, it depends on which kind of vacation you are looking for. If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, this will be a great time to visit. However, if you’re after relaxation or convenience, this time might not be ideal for you.

One major pro is the festive atmosphere you won’t find at any other time of year. Streets are beautifully adorned with Tet decorations, flower markets are in full bloom, and temples are filled with locals making wishes for the new year.

This is also a great time to witness authentic Vietnamese traditions, family rituals, and cultural customs up close. In some big cities, traffic becomes lighter during the main Tet days, creating a calmer and more relaxed travel experience.

However, there are also some cons travelers should consider. Many local businesses, small restaurants, and shops close for several days, which can limit dining and shopping options. That being said, thanks to the growth of the tourism industry, there might be some businesses or restaurants that will open throughout Tet holiday.

Transportation and accommodation prices often increase, especially just before and after Tet holiday. Flights, trains, and buses may sell out quickly due to locals returning home from big cities. Tour schedules can be reduced, and service may feel slower than usual.

Overall, whether you should visit Vietnam during Tet depends on your travel style. If you value cultural experiences and don’t mind some inconvenience, Tet can be a memorable time to visit.

10 Best Places to Visit During Tet Holiday in Vietnam

Hanoi

Hanoi is one of the best places to experience Vietnam during Tet holiday, especially for travelers interested in culture and traditions. As the capital city, Hanoi becomes beautifully decorated with red banners, lanterns, and festive displays.

In the days before Tet, locals flock to flower markets such as Quang Ba and Hang Luoc to buy peach blossoms and kumquat trees, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.

During the main Tet days, Hanoi feels quieter than usual as many residents return to their hometowns. This makes it a great time to explore iconic spots like the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature without heavy traffic. Visitors can also join locals at pagodas and temples to pray for luck and good health in the new year.

Read more>>Top 5 best tours in Hanoi – Why you should book tour?

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most vibrant places to visit in Vietnam during Tet holiday. Unlike the North, the city celebrates Tet with bright yellow apricot blossoms, large flower streets, and colorful decorations across central areas.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street becomes the highlight, featuring an impressive flower festival that attracts both locals and visitors. During Tet, Ho Chi Minh City remains more active than many other destinations. Shopping malls, cafés, restaurants, and major attractions usually stay open, making it easier for travelers to enjoy the city.

Some places you can check out to enjoy the festive atmosphere in Ho Chi Minh City would be: Nguyen Hue Flower Street, Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, Chinatown, Buu Long Pagoda…

Hoi An

Hoi An is especially charming during Tet holiday, offering a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The ancient town is decorated with colorful lanterns, flowers, and traditional banners, making the old streets even more photogenic than usual. Many local families clean and decorate their homes, giving visitors a glimpse into authentic Tet traditions.

During the Vietnam Tet holiday, Hoi An is quieter and crowds are smaller. Travelers can enjoy walking along the Thu Bon River, visiting ancient houses, and exploring temples without the usual rush.

Some shops may close for a few days, but key attractions and riverside cafés often remain open. Visiting Hoi An during Tet is ideal for travelers who prefer a slow pace, cultural charm, and a relaxed holiday experience.

Hue

Hue offers a calm and traditional atmosphere during Tet holiday, making it a meaningful destination for culture lovers. As the former imperial capital, Hue boasts numerous temples, pagodas, and ancestral houses that are carefully decorated. Moreover, locals here often visit sacred sites to pray for peace and prosperity during Tet holiday.

When Tet comes, Hue is quieter and more peaceful than usual, allowing travelers to explore historical landmarks at a relaxed pace. The Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, and Thien Mu Pagoda remain key highlights, often with fewer crowds. Visiting Hue during the Vietnam Tet holiday is ideal for travelers seeking history, tradition, and a slower, reflective travel experience.

Read more>>Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide: Top Things to Do in Hoi An, Where to Stay, What to Eat

Da Nang

Da Nang is a great destination during Tet holiday for travelers who want a balance between festive atmosphere and modern comforts. The city is decorated with flowers, lights, and Tet displays, which makes it feel lively and unforgettable to explore for travelers.

Unlike smaller towns, Da Nang remains fairly active during Vietnam Tet holiday. Many hotels, restaurants, and tourist services continue operating, making travel more convenient.

Some must-try activities in Da Nang this Tet holiday:

• Visit Dragon Bridge and the Han River on New Year’s Eve to watch firework displays
• Visit Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge, which offers less crowds compared to usual days
• Relax at My Khe Beach or enjoy seaside cafés
• Explore the Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) to visit caves and pagodas

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a peaceful and scenic destination to visit during Tet holiday, perfect for travelers who enjoy nature and quiet landscapes. During Vietnam Tet holiday, the countryside feels calm, with fewer crowds and a slower pace of life. The weather is often cool and mild in Ninh Binh during this period. You can expect some drizzle but it won’t disrupt your plan too much.

Must-do activities in Ninh Binh include:

• A boat ride through Trang An or Tam Coc
• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda where many locals come to pray for health and good fortune in the new year
• Climb up to Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape

Read more>>A Complete Ninh Binh Guide: Everything You Need for a Perfect Trip

Sapa

Sapa is a unique destination to visit during Tet holiday for travelers who enjoy mountain scenery and ethnic culture. During this time, Sapa is in its dry season, which offers misty scenery in early morning and beautiful sunshine at midday. Traveling to Sapa during Tet, you can also immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, witnessing ethnic minority communities celebrate Tet with their own traditions.

Must-do activities in Sapa during the Vietnam Tet holiday include:

• Visit ethnic villages such as Cat Cat or Ta Van, where you can see traditional houses and daily life.
• Take the cable car to Fansipan Peak, known as the “Roof of Indochina.” What’s better than staying on the highest peak of Vietnam on the first day of the year?
• Visit Moana Cafe to take some Instagrammable photos.
• Explore local markets
• Wander around the Sapa center and immerse yourself in the warm, festive vibe.

Most of Sapa’s tourist attractions remain open during the Tet holiday, making it one of the best destinations to visit this Tet holiday.

Read more>>Sapa Guide and Itinerary: Best Things to Do for Travelers 2024

Phu Quoc

If you want your trip to focus on relaxation, beach activities instead of cultural experiences, Phu Quoc is an ideal destination during Tet holiday. While many cities slow down during Vietnam Tet holiday, Phu Quoc remains lively with resorts, restaurants, and tourist services operating normally. The dry season in February brings warm weather, calm seas, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

Must-do activities in Phu Quoc during Tet include:

• Relax on Long Beach or Sao Beach
• Snorkel and island-hop around the An Thoi archipelago
• Visit night markets to enjoy fresh seafood and festive food
• Enjoy sunset views and island dining experiences
• Stay at a beachfront resort

Dalat

Da Lat is one of the most beautiful places to visit during Tet holiday, thanks to its cool climate and blooming flowers. During Vietnam Tet holiday, the city comes alive with colorful flower displays, local festivals, and a fresh spring atmosphere. Many locals in the South Vietnam visit Da Lat to escape the heat and enjoy the romantic scenery.

Must-do activities in Da Lat during Tet include:

• Visit flower gardens
• Stroll around Xuan Huong Lake
• Explore landmarks such as Valley of Love and Truc Lam Zen Monastery
• Enjoy a cup of coffee in a cozy cafe
• Experience Da Lat Night Market and street food

Read more>>Complete Da Lat Travel Guide for First-Timers: When to Visit, Where to Stay, Best Things to Do

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta offers a warm and authentic way to experience Vietnam during Tet holiday. Life here revolves around rivers, canals, and close-knit communities, and Tet is celebrated with strong family traditions. Villages are decorated with flowers and lights, and the atmosphere feels welcoming and festive.

Must-do activities in the Mekong Delta during Vietnam Tet holiday include:

• Visit floating markets such as Cai Rang
• Take a boat trip through small canals
• Explore fruit orchards and local villages
• Stay overnight at a local homestay and enjoy the festive atmosphere

While some services may slow down briefly, traveling to the Mekong Delta during Tet allows visitors to experience local culture, rural charm, and genuine holiday warmth.

Essential Travel Tips for the Vietnam Lunar New Year 2026

Traveling to Vietnam during the Tet holiday requires extra preparation, but a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips that we think might be useful if you plan to visit Vietnam during this period:

• Book flights, hotels, and tours as early as possible, as demand is high and prices often increase around Lunar New Year
• If possible, avoid traveling on the days right before and after Tet, when transportation is busiest due to locals returning home.
• It’s also important to plan your daily activities wisely. Many small shops, local restaurants, and family-run businesses may close for several days, while major tourist attractions, shopping malls, and hotels usually remain open.
• Always carry cash, as some places may not accept card payments during Tet.
• Be respectful of local customs, such as dressing modestly at temples, avoiding negative comments during the New Year, and greeting locals politely.

With the right mindset and preparation, visiting Vietnam during the Lunar New Year 2026 can be a rewarding and culturally rich experience.

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