Vietnam during Lunar New Year is unforgettable.
Known locally as Tet Nguyen Dan (or simply Tet), Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It is a time of family reunions, cultural traditions, temple visits, festive markets, and some of the most beautiful celebrations you will ever experience in Southeast Asia.
For travelers, Tet is a magical time to visit—but it also comes with a few surprises. Many businesses close, domestic travel becomes extremely busy, and hotels fill up quickly in major cities.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about celebrating Lunar New Year in Vietnam, including the best places to visit, what to eat, what to expect, and how to plan your trip smoothly.
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What Is Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)?
Tet is Vietnam’s Lunar New Year celebration, marking the beginning of a new year based on the lunar calendar. It is similar to Lunar New Year celebrations in other Asian countries, but Tet has its own unique traditions and cultural meaning.
Tet is a time when Vietnamese people:
- Clean and decorate their homes
- Honor ancestors
- Visit temples for good luck
- Spend time with family
- Give lucky money to children
- Prepare special holiday foods
- Celebrate with fireworks and festivals
For visitors, Tet offers a rare chance to experience Vietnamese culture at its most meaningful and vibrant.
When Is Lunar New Year in Vietnam?
Tet usually falls between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar.
The celebration typically lasts several days, but in reality, many people travel and prepare for Tet for weeks leading up to the holiday.
For travelers, it is best to plan your trip around:
- The week before Tet (festive and busy)
- Tet Eve and Tet Day (peak celebrations)
- The first few days after Tet (temples, gatherings, cultural activities)
What to Expect When Traveling During Tet
Tet is one of the most exciting times to visit Vietnam, but it is also one of the busiest.
Here are some things to expect:
Many Shops and Businesses Close
Especially in smaller towns, local restaurants and shops may shut down for several days.
Transportation Sells Out
Flights, buses, and trains fill quickly, and prices rise fast.
Cities Feel Quiet at First
Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City may feel unusually calm on Tet Day because many locals travel back to their hometowns.
Tourist Areas Still Have Activity
Hotels, major attractions, and tourist-focused restaurants often remain open, especially in places like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hanoi.
If you plan correctly, Tet is one of the most rewarding times to visit Vietnam.
The Best Places to Celebrate Lunar New Year in Vietnam
Vietnam celebrates Tet everywhere, but certain destinations offer a more iconic experience.
1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most exciting places to be during Tet. The city is famous for its colorful decorations, flower markets, and lively nightlife before the holiday begins.
Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet:
- Visit Nguyen Hue Flower Street
- Explore Ben Thanh Market for Tet souvenirs
- Experience Tet decorations at Tao Dan Park
- Watch fireworks along the Saigon River
- Visit local temples such as Jade Emperor Pagoda
Ho Chi Minh City is a great choice if you want a modern city vibe with traditional Tet celebrations.
2. Hanoi
Hanoi offers a more traditional and historical Tet experience. During Lunar New Year, the Old Quarter becomes beautifully decorated, and local temples fill with people praying for good fortune.
Top things to do in Hanoi during Tet:
- Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake during holiday celebrations
- Visit the Temple of Literature
- Explore the Old Quarter at night
- Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda
- Try Tet street foods and desserts
Hanoi is perfect for travelers who want a cultural, slower-paced, and authentic feel.
3. Hoi An
Hoi An may be the most visually beautiful place in Vietnam during Lunar New Year. With lantern-lined streets, ancient architecture, and festive celebrations, it feels like stepping into a movie.
Top things to do in Hoi An during Tet:
- Attend lantern festivals and night markets
- Visit ancient temples and pagodas
- Take photos in Ao Dai with festive backdrops
- Explore the riverside lantern boat rides
- Enjoy Tet celebrations in the Old Town
Hoi An is ideal for couples, photographers, and travelers who want a magical atmosphere.
4. Da Nang
Da Nang is a great destination if you want a balance between city energy and relaxing beach time. Many businesses remain open, and it is easier to find modern hotels and resort stays.
Top things to do in Da Nang during Tet:
- Visit Dragon Bridge for weekend fire shows
- Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge
- Enjoy My Khe Beach
- Visit Marble Mountains
- Experience Tet temple visits in the city
Da Nang is one of the best options for travelers who want Tet without too many closures.
5. Hue
Hue offers a quieter, deeply cultural Tet experience. As Vietnam’s former imperial capital, Hue is filled with historical sites, royal architecture, and traditional celebrations.
Top things to do in Hue during Tet:
- Visit the Imperial City
- Explore ancient tombs and pagodas
- Attend local Tet performances
- Visit Thien Mu Pagoda
- Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine
Hue is a great choice for travelers interested in history and cultural immersion.
Top Experiences to Add to Your Vietnam Tet Trip
Even if you are traveling for Tet, these experiences will elevate your itinerary.
Visit a Tet Flower Market
Flower markets are one of the most iconic parts of Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Locals buy flowers to decorate their homes and welcome good fortune.
Common Tet flowers include:
- Peach blossoms (Northern Vietnam)
- Apricot blossoms (Southern Vietnam)
- Kumquat trees
- Orchids and chrysanthemums
Flower markets are vibrant, crowded, and filled with amazing photo opportunities.
Visit Temples and Pagodas for Good Luck
During Tet, temples are filled with people lighting incense and praying for health, success, and happiness.
Top temple experiences include:
- Watching locals give offerings
- Buying lucky charms
- Observing cultural rituals
- Participating respectfully in incense ceremonies
Travelers should dress modestly and be respectful when visiting religious sites.
Watch Fireworks on Tet Eve
Fireworks are one of the biggest highlights of Tet celebrations. Many cities hold large public shows, especially on Tet Eve.
Popular places to watch fireworks include:
- Ho Chi Minh City riverside areas
- Hanoi near Hoan Kiem Lake
- Da Nang along the Han River
Arrive early, as streets fill quickly.
Sample Itinerary: 7 Days in Vietnam for Lunar New Year
If you want a balanced itinerary that includes culture, sightseeing, and Tet celebrations, here is a great starting plan.
Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City
Check in, explore the city, and visit a Tet flower street or market.
Day 2: Explore Saigon Before Tet
Visit temples, markets, and Nguyen Hue Flower Street.
Day 3: Travel to Da Nang
Fly to Da Nang for beach relaxation and city exploration.
Day 4: Day Trip to Hoi An
Enjoy lanterns, old town charm, and Tet festivities.
Day 5: Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge
Explore one of Vietnam’s most iconic attractions.
Day 6: Tet Temple Visits and Cultural Exploration
Spend the day visiting pagodas, local celebrations, and enjoying Tet foods.
Day 7: Departure Day
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and head home.
This itinerary can be customized for travelers who want Hanoi instead of Ho Chi Minh City, or for those wanting to add Hue or Ha Long Bay.
Why You Should Book Your Vietnam Tet Trip Early
Lunar New Year is Vietnam’s busiest travel season.
Hotels sell out fast, flights become expensive, and transportation options can become limited. Many travelers wait too long and end up paying significantly more or struggling to find availability.
Booking early ensures:
- better hotel options
- better flight pricing
- smoother transportation planning
- less stress during the busiest holiday week
How Life Go Travel Can Help You Plan Lunar New Year in Vietnam
At Life Go Travel, we help travelers experience Vietnam without the stress of planning everything alone, especially during busy seasons like Tet.
We assist with:
- hotel booking support in high-demand cities
- customized itineraries for Vietnam
- transportation planning between regions
- private drivers and tours
- cultural travel planning for Tet celebrations
- group travel coordination
Tet is not the time to leave your plans to chance. Having professional support makes the entire experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Ready to Experience Lunar New Year in Vietnam?
Vietnam during Tet is vibrant, emotional, and unforgettable. It is a chance to witness traditions, festivals, and family celebrations that only happen once a year.
If you are planning to visit Vietnam for Lunar New Year, now is the best time to start organizing your hotels, transportation, and itinerary.
Contact Life Go Travel to help plan your Vietnam Tet trip with the best accommodations, smooth transportation, and a custom itinerary designed around the holiday season.