Are you planning to visit Vietnam by chance? Has the thought of strolling along streets lined by lanterns ever intrigued you as you enjoyed Vietnamese iced coffee while watching residents paddle boats within lakes surrounded by mango trees? That’s Hanoi in May. During this season, Hanoi transforms into an active city filled with blooming sidewalk flowers, street food from markets, and music from open window spaces. Warm daytime breezes exist amid early summer conditions. May creates an ideal opportunity to explore the capital city of Vietnam according to your desires. Hanoi weather conditions in May make the city perfect for boat rides during the day and night market exploration at night, which means you should start planning your vacation with our Hanoi tour package now.
Weather of Hanoi in May
Hanoi experiences its last spring days and its first summer month during May. The mixture of pleasant temperature and fresh air combines with weak rainfalls to create a clean atmosphere. Daytime temperatures in Hanoi reach their peak in the morning and evening, giving off mellow warmth.
- Temperature in Hanoi in May: 24°C (low) to 32°C (high)
- Feel: Hot but breezy
- Rainfall: The region receives light rainfall between late afternoon to evening hours.
- What to wear: A perfect outfit for Hanoi includes cotton clothing combined with hats and sunglasses, along with sandals for comfort.
Travellers can enjoy every outdoor activity they want while exploring Hanoi in May, as the climate supports walks and picnics, and cultural exploration.
How to Reach Hanoi?
The city of Hanoi offers accessible international and domestic travel routes for visitors to reach its borders.
- By Air: One can reach Hanoi through Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), which is located 30 km from downtown Hanoi.
- By Train: People can reach Hanoi Railway Station directly from Ho Chi Minh as well as Da Nang and Sapa through train services.
- By Bus: Buses can reach the city of Hanoi through long-distance routes that extend to both domestic provinces and other countries, such as Laos.
The best time to arrive in Hanoi is in the morning, when you can plan your first day of exploration while skipping congested city roads.
Top 5 Places To Visit in Hanoi in May
1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Travellers should start their exploration of Hanoi at Hoan Kiem Lake. May brings a stunning view of the lake as green trees surround it while flowers blossom. In the mornings, local residents practice tai chi, and children launch kites from the grounds where tourists visit Ngoc Son Temple by crossing the bright red Huc Bridge. The waterfront provides a spot to observe the local lifestyles, which include fruit vendors and picture-taking couples, and elderly people enjoying chess in the shade. Kiem Lake shifts its audience into a sense of peaceful tranquillity within the fast-paced urban environment.
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Hanoi: Uncover The Charm Of Vietnam’s Vibrant Capital
2. Temple of Literature
Tourists visiting Hanoi in May must stop by the Temple of Literature to explore Vietnam's first national university building. May brings vibrant flowering trees throughout the gardens, which guide visitors along ancient stone pathways to experience a state of peaceful calmness. The positive venue dedicated to Confucius and scholar reverence was established in 1070.
The stone turtles who carry examinations and the structures, including ponds and pavilions, demonstrate the Vietnamese dedication towards wisdom and education. Picture-taking activities and book reading, and contemplation take place perfectly in this space.
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3. Old Quarter
The Old Quarter stands as Hanoi's vital centre through its dynamic, enthusiastic character combined with its unique, attractive features. The crowded streets show traces of both historic French colonial structures and active, thriving cafes. During May, the cooler nighttime temperatures attract people to active markets across the city. Experience Hanoi through “Silk Street” while enjoying egg coffee alongside buying hand-painted fans and welcoming the charm of getting pleasantly lost in ancient pathways.
Each section of the town forms its own narrative, and every scent guides your journey to different places. Hence, spending time at the weekend night market should be on your itinerary.
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4. West Lake
Locals from Hanoi often spend time at West Lake because it serves as the city's biggest water body for relaxing, along with picnics and visiting beautiful cafes. The lake's surroundings become pleasurable for cyclists when May brings its mild air. Travel to Tran Quoc Pagoda, which represents the oldest Hanoi temple, because it rests gracefully against the lake shores. You can find peaceful temples along with seafood dining establishments, which offer a soothing retreat from downtown activity. This location offers the ideal spot to spend tranquil hours while watching the sunset turn golden in Hanoi in May.
5. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A history enthusiast must explore this location to understand Vietnam's past. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum holds Vietnam's revolutionary leader's body, which the public can view through preservation techniques. The greenery surrounding the area reaches its peak blossoming point during May. Visiting this location maintains a quiet atmosphere while demonstrating a respectful and slightly unusual experience.
You will see guards wearing white uniforms leading you through many halls until you reach the site where Vietnam's historical figure is remembered. The attraction creates a powerful memory for every visitor, regardless of their interest in history.
Best 5 Things to Do in Hanoi in May
From taking the cooking classes to exploring the countryside, there are ample things to do in Hanoi in May. Keep reading further to explore some of the top ones.
1. Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class
Among all activities to enjoy in Hanoi in May, learning Vietnamese cooking stands out as the most fulfilling interactive experience. A local chef leads visitors through the market, where they can see fresh produce and herbs at the markets that overflow with local ingredients. The class starts with teaching you how to choose the best ingredients from the market before proceeding to a classic kitchen.
Under instructor guidance, prepare traditional Vietnamese cuisine that includes the signature dishes pho, spring rolls, and banh xeo during this authentic cooking experience. These classes benefit people of all skill levels because they let you discover Vietnamese culture directly through experiential learning. By joining the class, you also have the opportunity to enjoy the food you prepare during the cooking process.
- Location: Old Quarter or West Lake area
- Timings: This cooking experience has two sessions operating from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Fee: ₹2,000- ₹3,000 per person (includes meal)
- What to Carry: Comfortable clothes, camera, water bottle
Suggested Read: Exploring The Things To Do In Hanoi: A Journey Through The Best And Most Adventurous Attractions
2. Join a Countryside Bike Tour
The rural bike route serves as an ideal way for Hanoi residents to escape from the city hustle while exploring its natural beauty. The rural area presents a rich, colorful scenery during May with pleasant temperatures that spare visitors from the extreme humidity. During biking, you will pass through rice fields as you see picturesque local villages and find shade under the bamboo trees. Most cycling tours make their way to old tea houses and pagodas alongside visits to local farms.
Cycling through Vietnam allows you to discover an area that presents a serene page of Vietnamese culture and lifestyle. The mix of open air atmosphere, along with friendly people and lovely natural scenery, ensures families and couples or those traveling alone will build a wonderful memory when visiting this location.
- Location: Outskirts of Hanoi (Bat Trang, Co Loa, or Red River delta)
- Timings: Between 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM.
- Fee: ₹1,500- ₹2,500 per person (bike + guide)
- What to Carry: Sunglasses, sunscreen, small backpack, water
3. Walk Through the Night Market of the Old Quarter
After sunset arrives in Hanoi, the Old Quarter turns into a dazzling city with vivid lights and active sounds. Throughout the May weekend, people can visit the colourful night market that offers both handmade items and tasty food stalls, and listen to creative music. The old quarter night market makes for an entertaining evening with its street shows and traditional dances, along with hosting a variety of local food options such as grilled squid, sweet rice cakes, and fried spring rolls. The energy here is unbeatable. People can experience Hanoi's nightlife through shopping or casual exploration while staying affordable in this active area.
- Location: Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market
- Timings: 7:00 PM- 11:00 PM (Friday to Sunday only)
- Fee: The location offers free admission, but people will need to pay separately for their food and shopping.
- What to Carry: Travel with cash and a shopping carrier as well as a light jacket.
4. Go on a Boat Journey to the Perfume Pagoda
May provides the perfect time to visit the Perfume Pagoda because it becomes one of Vietnam's most scenic and religious landmarks. Travellers embark on their journey through the Yen River by peaceful boat before witnessing limestone cliffs and flower-covered banks. From the boat tour, you can select between a walking path or a cable car path that leads to the pagoda located inside a cave.
Visitors can experience three distinct elements across the destination through its natural, religious, and adventurous activities. The pilgrimage season attracts people throughout the year, yet guests choose to visit during May when the region displays its greenery while lotus flowers blossom.
- Location: Huong Son, 60 km from Hanoi
- Timings: 7:00 AM- 5:00 PM
- Fee: The complete package that includes the boat and entry along with the cable car costs between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000.
- What to Carry: Walking shoes, hat, water, light snacks
5. Visit the Dragon Boat Festival
As a significant traditional festival of Vietnam, the Dragon Boat Festival occurs in May or early June. During the event in Hanoi, residents participate by participating in boat races and listening to traditional music while sharing the traditional treat "bánh tro." During this event, residents paint fine boats with brilliant dragon overlays that compete in racing competitions across lakes and rivers with spectator support from the lakeshore audience.
People can experience this enjoyable cultural event, which provides a chance to feel the energetic atmosphere of the local community. The experience of witnessing this event, even as an observer, creates memories that stay with you forever due to its rich atmosphere and diversity of culinary options and contagious enthusiasm.
- Location: The event takes place at West Lake or Hoan Kiem Lake, although the specific venue changes annually.
- Timings: You can visit this celebration from morning to evening on a date that varies depending on the local event calendar.
- Fee: Free public event
- What to Carry: Hat, camera, foldable chair or mat
The Hanoi weather May brings forth a pleasant temperature combined with active and joyful conditions throughout the city. Throughout Hanoi's scenic landscapes, you can have the feeling that each experience will stay in your memory. The gentle charms of Hanoi in May blend with its exciting character when you drink coffee in its old districts and boat across concealed temples. During this time, you will encounter relaxing early hours followed by energetic daytime activities, along with pleasant evening breezes. You should visit this city during May because welcoming gates and countless tales will greet you throughout your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the temperature in Hanoi in May?
The weather remains hot yet breezy between 24°C and 32°C in Hanoi in May.
2. Is it enjoyable traveling to Hanoi in May?
Visiting Hanoi at this moment provides a wonderful opportunity. The weather brings warm sunlight during the day, followed by cultural events and slight evening rainfall.
3. Which garments should I bring to Hanoi in May?
Light cotton clothes, along with comfortable shoes, a hat, and a compact umbrella, should be packed due to probable rainfall.
4. Can we enjoy outdoor activities in Hanoi in May?
Absolutely! The pleasant weather opens most destinations, including tourist sites and lakes, as well as countryside regions, to visitors.
5. Does Hanoi experience heavy tourism during May?
Visitors find the town to be active, although it hosts fewer people than the summer months, while still attracting many visitors because of its pleasant climate and local events.
