

Hanoi experiences four distinct seasons – Winter (December-February), Spring (mid-February-April), Summer (May-October), and Autumn (November) – with dramatic temperature changes between seasons ranging from 12°C in winter to over 30°C in summer. Unlike Southern Vietnam’s simple dry/wet season pattern, Northern Vietnam’s capital offers a complete seasonal cycle that significantly impacts daily life and clothing choices.
Understanding Hanoi’s weather patterns is crucial for residents and visitors, as seasonal transitions happen suddenly without warning, requiring immediate wardrobe adjustments and lifestyle adaptations.
Winter in Hanoi (December through early February) brings surprisingly bitter cold with temperatures dropping to 12°C at night, made worse by high humidity and the complete absence of heating systems in homes and apartments.
Winter begins suddenly in early December or sometimes mid-November. One day you’re comfortable in light clothing, the next day you need heavy winter jackets comparable to Canadian winter wear. The cold intensifies progressively through January, reaching its peak in mid-January.
The humidity makes temperatures feel much colder than actual readings, especially during morning commutes and evening returns home.
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Spring (mid-February through April) brings pleasant 22°C daytime temperatures but creates the infamous “Mouldy March” due to constant moisture, drizzle, and humidity that causes paint to peel and clothes to develop musty odors.
Temperatures hover around 22°C during the day, dropping to 17°C at night. Unlike monsoon season’s sudden downpours, spring brings persistent drizzle and atmospheric moisture lasting entire days.
Walking requires only light cardigans, but motorcycle riders still need jackets during morning and evening commutes, switching to cardigans during midday warmth.
Summer arrives suddenly with temperatures jumping from 22°C to 32°C overnight, then climbing progressively higher until mid-June when temperatures exceed 30°C both day and night for extended periods.
Once summer begins, there’s no reverting to spring temperatures. The heat only increases daily, making walking difficult due to immediate perspiration. Summer extends far beyond typical Western seasons, with September and October remaining very hot.
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Autumn (November) is universally considered Hanoi’s best season, offering consistently pleasant 28°C temperatures both day and night, ideal for outdoor activities without excessive perspiration.
The transition from summer to autumn happens as suddenly as other seasonal changes. Autumn provides optimal conditions for running, cycling, and walking, resulting in increased outdoor activity participation.
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All seasonal changes in Hanoi happen suddenly without warning, requiring immediate adaptation in clothing, lifestyle, and daily planning rather than gradual adjustment periods.
Many newcomers assume Vietnam maintains consistent summer weather year-round, arriving unprepared for winter conditions and scrambling for appropriate clothing at the last minute.
Understanding Hanoi’s dramatic seasonal variations prevents uncomfortable surprises and ensures proper preparation for each season’s unique challenges and requirements.
The weather remains a primary conversation topic throughout the year in Hanoi, unlike Southern Vietnam where weather discussions focus primarily on rainy season timing.
Hanoi’s four distinct seasons create a dynamic living environment requiring seasonal adaptation and preparation. Understanding these weather patterns helps newcomers and long-term residents alike navigate the dramatic temperature and humidity changes that define life in Vietnam’s capital city.