Is Tết a Good Time to Travel to Vietnam? Pros, Cons & Tips

10/02/2026 Paul Lee

Is traveling to Vietnam during the Lunar New Year (also known as Tết) the best time for you? YES… But only if you know what to expect from this time in Vietnam.
Let's take a look at traveling to Vietnam during Tết with VIET DOVE Travel.

Table of Contents

Colorful Lanterns Fill Busy Tet Night Market in Vietnam.

Is Tết a Good Time to Travel to Vietnam?

Absolutely! Visiting Vietnam while celebrating the Lunar New Year is an amazing opportunity to see the country in full color!
Cities and towns across the country will be decorated with flowers, festive lights, and New Year music.
Traditional foods, customs, and a happy atmosphere will fill every corner of Vietnam as we celebrate the beginning of a new year.
If you travel to Vietnam in mid-February, you'll have the opportunity to witness the nation's cultural New Year's celebration!

When Does Tết 2026 Start?

Officially, Tết in 2026 will begin on Feb 17, 2026.
However, many cities decorate themselves with festive items such as flowers and festive lights as early as a week before Tết, which means you could catch the excitement starting Feb 10, 2026.

Lively Crowded Streets Glow with Lanterns During Tet Festival.

What Makes Traveling During Tết Special?

Traveling to Vietnam during Tết allows you to see the true emotions of the Vietnamese people when they celebrate their most sacred holiday.
You'll witness families and friends gathering to celebrate the New Year.
You'll experience fireworks, music, and traditional games that bring the community together uniquely and festively.
It will allow you to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and participate in the traditions rather than simply observing them.

Experience the Festivities As A Local

During Tết, you'll see the streets of Vietnam come alive with celebrations.
Whether it's a street party or a visit to a friend's home, Tết is all about being with loved ones.
Experience the joy of celebrating the New Year with over 100 million other Vietnamese people.
All you need to do is research the events happening near where you're staying.

Vibrant Orange Lanterns Illuminate Hoi An Streets During Tet.

Important Things to Know Before Traveling During Tết

Traveling during Tết is also Vietnam's peak tourist season; prior preparation is key.

Book Early and Expect Higher Prices

Reserve your flight, hotel, and tour well ahead of time.
During Tết, prices for flights, hotels, and tours tend to increase by 20-30% as a result of added holiday surcharges.

Check What’s Open

While some restaurants, stores and attractions may temporarily close during the first few days of Tết, it's always a good idea to confirm ahead of time.
Additionally, it would be a good idea to have a flexible schedule to accommodate potential closures.

Start Your Day Early

Be prepared for crowds at popular destinations.
Visit popular sites at 6 or 7 am, instead of later in the day, to avoid peak times and to allow for a more enjoyable experience.

Traditional Lion Dance Performance Celebrates Tet in Vietnam.

Final Thoughts – Should You Travel to Vietnam During Tết?

If you love experiencing different cultures, then visiting Vietnam during Tết will be an incredible experience for you.
While there are challenges associated with traveling during Tết, with proper planning and expectations, it has the potential to be one of the most memorable trips of your lifetime.
Take these tips with you, remain flexible and let VIET DOVE Travel guide you through the adventure of a lifetime during Tết!

Ready to Explore Da Nang & Hoi An?

Da Nang and Hoi An offer the perfect mix of modern wonders, ancient charm, and breathtaking scenery — from the iconic Golden Hand Bridge soaring above the clouds to lantern-lit streets glowing at night and misty morning ruins at My Son.

Whether you're planning a quick city escape, a full-day adventure, or a relaxing multi-day getaway, we’ve got the ideal tour for you!