Best Places To Visit In Vietnam In October: Ideal Fall Destinations

A panoramic view of Hanoi, highlighting the best places to visit in Vietnam in October.

Vietnam is a great travel destination, and October is an ideal time to explore it. While looking for the best places to visit in Vietnam in October, you will find many cities, beaches, and natural spots that offer great experiences. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are busy with daily life, while Hội An and Đà Lạt have a more relaxed feel. The Mekong Delta and Hà Giang let visitors see local traditions up close. Halong Bay and Phú Quốc are perfect for boat trips and beach time. This blog will show the top ten places to visit in Vietnam.

10 Best Places To Visit In Vietnam In October

Explore the top places to visit in Vietnam in October to enjoy pleasant weather, cultural festivals, and breathtaking landscapes on your journey.

1. Hanoi

An image showing busy streets in Hanoi, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in October.

Photo: Linda Gerbec / Unsplash

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its old streets, historical sites, and busy lifestyle. The city has a long history influenced by Chinese and French cultures, as seen in its temples and buildings. The local food is popular, with dishes like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee found everywhere. The lifestyle here is fast, with people always on the move. Markets, street vendors, and small shops make the city lively. The weather in October is pleasant, making it easy to walk around and explore.

Major Attractions: Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, West Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Noi Bai International Airport

2. Phú Quốc

An image showing Vinpearl Safari Phú Quốc, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in October.

Photo: Khoitran1957 / Wikimedia Commons

Phú Quốc is an island in southern Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand. It is known for its sandy beaches, forests, and fresh seafood. The island has a fishing history and is famous for producing fish sauce. The local culture is relaxed, with small fishing villages and night markets selling food and souvenirs. Grilled seafood, pepper crab, and tropical fruits are common here. The atmosphere is quiet, with a mix of locals and tourists. Phú Quốc offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam.

Major Attractions: Long Beach, Sao Beach, Phú Quốc National Park, Vinpearl Safari, Dinh Cau Night Market
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Phú Quốc International Airport

3. Halong Bay

An image of the clear waters of Halong Bay, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in October.

Photo: EYEKLIK / Wikimedia Commons

Halong Bay is one of the most famous places to visit in Vietnam. It is known for its limestone islands that rise from the water. It has a long history connected to Vietnamese legends, and it was once home to small fishing communities. Many people still live in floating villages here. The seafood is fresh, with popular dishes like grilled squid and steamed clams. The way of life in Halong Bay is slower than in big cities. People enjoy boat rides and fishing. October brings clear skies and cool temperatures, making it an ideal time to cruise and see the islands.

Major Attractions: Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Luon Cave, Floating Villages
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)

4. Ho Chi Minh City

An image showing a panoramic view of Ho Chi Minh City's urban landscape and buildings.

Photo: Lê Minh Phát / Wikimedia Commons

Ho Chi Minh City, also called Saigon, is in southern Vietnam. It is the largest city in the country and a major financial centre. The city has a strong historical background, influenced by French and American rule, seen in its architecture and museums. The food culture is diverse, with dishes like banh mi, com tam, and iced coffee being widely enjoyed. The city’s lifestyle is fast, with busy streets, motorbikes, and night markets. In October, the weather is less humid, making it comfortable to explore the streets, visit museums, and try the famous Vietnamese street food.

Major Attractions: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Tan Son Nhat International Airport

5. Hội An

An image of a shophouse in Hội An Ancient Town, Vietnam, with traditional architecture.

Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons

Hội An is in central Vietnam and is known for its well-preserved old town. It was once an important trading port, and this history is reflected in its mix of Chinese, Japanese, and European architecture. The culture is centred around traditional crafts, including lantern-making and tailoring. The local food includes cao lau, white rose dumplings, and fresh seafood. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, with small cafes, markets, and riverside views. October is a good time to visit as the weather is comfortable for walking through the ancient streets, taking a boat ride, and exploring the markets.

Major Attractions: Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Ancient Town, Thu Bon River, An Bang Beach
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Da Nang International Airport

6. Sapa

An image of a view of Sapa, Vietnam, featuring steppe farming, and local landscapes.

Photo: David McKelvey / Wikimedia Commons

Sapa is a mountain town in northern Vietnam, close to the border with China. It is known for its rice terraces, which turn golden in October. The town has a mix of cultures, with different ethnic minority groups living in the area, such as the Hmong and Dao people. Their traditional clothing and crafts are an important part of local life. The food includes grilled meat, sticky rice, and herbal hotpot. The town is quieter than major cities, and people mostly walk or take motorbikes. October brings cool weather, making it a good time for trekking and sightseeing.

Major Attractions: Fansipan Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, Cat Cat Village, Silver Waterfall
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)

7. Mekong Delta

An image showing river life in Mekong Delta, Cai Be, Vietnam, with boats and local activity.

Photo: Tomáš Malík / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Mekong Delta is in southern Vietnam and is known for its network of rivers, canals, and floating markets. It has a history of farming and fishing, with people depending on the river for their daily lives. The culture is shaped by rural traditions, with many families running small farms and businesses. The food is fresh, with fruits, rice, and fish being the main meal ingredients. The lifestyle here is slower, with people using boats to travel. October is a good time to visit because the high water levels make exploring villages and floating markets easy.

Major Attractions: Cai Rang Floating Market, Vinh Trang Pagoda, Tra Su Cajuput Forest, Fruit Orchards
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Can Tho International Airport

8. Hà Giang

An image showing Ha Giang, Vietnam, with winding roads and mountainous landscapes.

Photo: Zennysmile / Wikimedia Commons

Hà Giang is in northern Vietnam, close to the Chinese border. It is known for its winding mountain roads and small villages. The area has a strong ethnic culture, with many local communities following their traditions and wearing colourful clothing. The food includes corn wine, buckwheat cakes, and smoked meat. The way of life is simple, with farming and handicrafts being the main occupations. October is one of the best months to visit, as the weather is cool, and the rice fields are at their most beautiful. The mountain views are also clearer at this time of year.

Major Attractions: Hà Giang Loop, Dong Van Karst Plateau, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Lung Cu Flag Tower
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)

9. Nha Trang

An image showing Nha Trang port, Vietnam, with boats docked along the waterfront area.

Photo: Ilya Plekhanov / Wikimedia Commons

Nha Trang is a coastal city in central Vietnam, known for its beaches and islands. It has a long history connected to the Cham civilisation, and some of their ancient towers can still be seen today. The local culture is influenced by fishing and tourism, with many seafood restaurants and beachside cafes. The food includes lobster, grilled fish, and seafood noodles. The lifestyle is lively, with a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the beaches and water sports. Nha Trang is one of the beautiful places to visit in Vietnam for a beach holiday.

Major Attractions: Vinpearl Land, Hon Mun Island, Po Nagar Towers, Long Son Pagoda
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Cam Ranh International Airport

10. Đà Lạt

An image showing Da Lat Flower Park, one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in October.

Photo: Diane Selwyn / Wikimedia Commons

Đà Lạt is in the central highlands of Vietnam and has cooler weather compared to other parts of the country. It was once a retreat for the French during colonial times, and their influence is still visible in the old buildings. The culture here is different from big cities, with many flower farms and coffee plantations. The local food includes fresh vegetables, strawberry jam, and hot soy milk. The lifestyle is slower, with people enjoying the fresh air and outdoor activities. October is a good time to visit because the weather is pleasant, and the flower gardens look beautiful.

Major Attractions: Xuan Huong Lake, Crazy House, Datanla Waterfall, Valley of Love
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Lien Khuong Airport

Vietnam has many places to explore, and October is a great time to visit. The cooler weather makes it easy to travel and enjoy the sights. The best places to visit in Vietnam in October offer something special, from Hanoi’s lively streets to Phú Quốc’s beaches. If you plan a trip to Vietnam. Plan a trip with TripXL today for a smooth travel experience.

Cover Photo: Minh Luu / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

In October, Vietnam celebrates several cultural events. The Keo Pagoda Festival in Thai Binh province features boat races and traditional performances. Hanoi’s Liberation Day on October 10th includes parades and historical exhibitions. Some regions also have mid-autumn harvest celebrations with food and local gatherings.
Yes, October is a great time to enjoy fresh seafood in coastal areas like Phú Quốc and Nha Trang. Autumn is also known for cốm (young green rice), a traditional dish in Hanoi. Other seasonal foods include hotpot dishes, which are popular in colder regions like Sapa and Đà Lạt.
Vietnam has a lively nightlife, with options ranging from bars and clubs in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to night markets in Hội An and Đà Lạt. Beachside areas like Nha Trang offer beachfront parties, while Sapa and Hà Giang have local cafes with live music.
October is ideal for outdoor activities like trekking in Hà Giang and Sapa, as the weather is cooler. Kayaking in Halong Bay is popular, as the sea conditions are good. Motorbike trips along the Hà Giang Loop and boat tours in the Mekong Delta also offer unique experiences.
Markets and local shops offer many unique items. Hội An is famous for custom-made clothing, while Hanoi’s Old Quarter has traditional crafts. Sapa has handmade textiles by ethnic minorities, and Ho Chi Minh City offers high-quality coffee and local snacks.

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