Hanoi in October: Weather, Things To Do, Holidays & Tips

October marks the most beautiful phase of autumn in Hanoi; the air turns crisp, cool, and refreshing, imbuing the city with an irresistibly romantic charm. It is the perfect time to immerse oneself in the unique rhythm of a capital that harmoniously blends ancient traditions with modern vibrancy. Every street, market, and local eatery offers a rich variety of experiences. The mild weather makes it ideal for exploring historical landmarks, participating in local festivals, or simply savouring a hot bowl of pho in a quiet alleyway. October brings scenic beauty and opens a window into the cultural depth, cuisine, and lifestyle of Hanoians. In this guide by GTrip, you will find can’t-miss events, seasonal delicacies, and practical tips to make your journey even more rewarding.

Is October a good time to visit Hanoi?

Yes, October is arguably the best time to visit Hanoi. As the monsoon season concludes by late September, October welcomes travelers with predominantly clear blue skies, significantly reduced humidity, and minimal rainfall compared to previous months. The temperature settles into a comfortable range between 23 - 31°C (73 - 88°F). It creates perfect conditions for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions without the discomfort of summer heat or winter chill.

October marks the beginning of Hanoi's autumn, widely considered the city's most beautiful season. The city takes on a different character as the harsh summer transitions to milder weather, with gentle breezes rustling through the trees around Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake. This pleasant climate coincides with the post-holiday period, meaning you'll encounter fewer crowds at popular attractions like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

October offers a glimpse into authentic Hanoi life, as locals return to their routines and the city cools after summer. This timing strikes the perfect balance between good weather and authentic cultural immersion before the winter tourist high season begins in November.

October is the ideal time to visit Hanoi, with clear skies, pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and a chance to experience the city’s authentic autumn charm

Weather in Hanoi in October

October marks a welcome transition in Hanoi's climate, offering you some of the year's most pleasant conditions. The intense summer heat begins to fade, and the heavy monsoon rains significantly diminish, creating an ideal environment for exploring Vietnam's capital. This month sits perfectly within Hanoi's autumn season, bringing clear skies and comfortable temperatures that locals and tourists eagerly anticipate.

Temperature range

• Average daytime highs: 30 - 31°C (86 - 88°F)
• Average nighttime lows: 22 - 23°C (71 - 73°F)
• Daily temperature swing: Approximately 8°C (14°F)
• Overall feel: Warm days with comfortably cool evenings
• Heat index: Lower than summer months due to reduced humidity

Rainfall and precipitation

October sees a significant reduction in rainfall compared to the summer monsoon months:

• Monthly precipitation: Approximately 128mm
• Rainy days: Around 11 days on average
• Rainfall pattern: Brief afternoon showers rather than all - day downpours
• Umbrella necessity: Occasional, not constant
• Puddles and flooding: Minimal compared to July - September

Sunshine and sky conditions

• Average sunshine hours: 5 - 6 hours daily
• Sky clarity: Increasing blue sky days
• Morning conditions: Often clear with occasional mist
• Evening visibility: Generally good with spectacular sunsets
• Photography conditions: Excellent for capturing Hanoi's landmarks

October in Hanoi offers a perfect blend of moderate temperatures, reduced rainfall, and increasing sunshine. This makes it an ideal month for both outdoor activities and cultural exploration. The weather is comfortable enough for walking tours around the Old Quarter or leisurely cyclo rides. Evenings are especially pleasant, allowing you to enjoy streetside dining without the oppressive humidity of summer or the chill of winter.

Things to do in Hanoi in October

October offers perfect conditions to explore Hanoi's unique attractions. Visiting the Old Quarter or touring museums are available year-round (discover more in things to do in Hanoi), these seasonal experiences make October visits special.

Watching the sunset and taking a walk at West Lake

West Lake is one of the most ideal spots to watch the sunset in Hanoi, attracting both locals and tourists with its romantic beauty and fresh atmosphere. In the afternoon, stroll along lakeside roads like Nguyen Dinh Thi, Thanh Nien, or Ve Ho to enjoy the breeze and evening reflections. The best time to watch the sunset is from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, when the sky turns a brilliant orange-red, creating a poetic and peaceful scene in the bustling heart of the city.

Besides walking, you can also enjoy activities like paddleboarding (SUP), swan pedal boating, and visiting the West Lake flower valley filled with vibrant blooms. Or simply relax at a lakeside café, sipping drinks while taking in the view. To capture beautiful sunset photos, it’s best to arrive early to choose a good spot and check the weather forecast beforehand to avoid rainy or cloudy days.

West Lake offers one of the best sunset experiences in Hanoi, with romantic views, lakeside strolls, and vibrant outdoor activities that attract both locals and visitors

Sipping coffee and eating green rice flakes near Hanoi’s St. Joseph’s Cathedral

The area around Hanoi’s St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone who loves both classic and modern coffee spaces. It’s also perfect for those who want to enjoy the famous Hanoi green rice flakes, known as “com” in autumn. This area features many well-known cafes with direct views of the Cathedral. You can sip coffee while admiring the French colonial architecture and the vibrant life of the Old Quarter.

Some notable cafes include:

• Cong Ca Phe (27 Nha Tho Street): A space full of old Hanoi charm, famous for coconut coffee, bac xiu (Vietnamese milk coffee), and traditional snacks.
• The Running Bean (22 Nha Tho Street): A modern, nature-friendly space with a diverse menu including coffee, tea, and light meals.
• Cafe Runam (13 Nha Tho Street): Cozy and classic design, serving coffee, tea, and many delicious dishes.
• Eden Coffee, La Place, V60+ Coffee: Cafes with beautiful views, perfect for watching the street and the Cathedral.

In autumn, you can enjoy com, Hanoi’s famous speciality, at cafes or street vendors around this area. The cool air combined with the delicate aroma of cốm and the rich taste of coffee creates an unforgettable Hanoi experience.

Charming coffee shop with cathedral views, and the scent of green rice makes this Old Quarter spot perfect for a classic Hanoi experience

Taking photos at Phan Dinh Phung Street

Phan Dinh Phung Street has long been considered one of the most beautiful and poetic streets in Hanoi. Located near the city center. It is known for its rows of mature Indochina dragonplum trees that line both sides of the road, creating a peaceful, romantic atmosphere amidst the bustle of urban life.

In autumn, as the leaves turn yellow and fall gently onto the pavement, the street is transformed into a golden canvas, an ideal backdrop for dreamy photos. This is the perfect time to take portraits in traditional ao dai, pre-wedding shoots, or simply to capture quiet moments in a space filled with old-Hanoi charm.

Beyond the natural beauty, Phan Dinh Phung also stands out thanks to its elegant French colonial villas, distinctive wrought-iron fences, and rare tranquillity. The mix of greenery, light, and classic architecture makes this street a top spot for those wanting to capture Hanoi’s authentic charm.

Phan Dinh Phung Street, with its golden autumn leaves and timeless architecture, is one of Hanoi’s most photogenic spots for capturing the city’s romantic, nostalgic charm

Marvel at Tran Quoc Pagoda on the shores of West Lake

Tran Quoc Pagoda, Vietnam's oldest Buddhist temple, dating back to the 6th century, displays its full glory in October. The favorable weather conditions bring exceptional visibility, allowing you to fully appreciate the pagoda's 11-story red lacquered architecture against the backdrop of clear October skies over West Lake.

• Historical significance: Founded in 541 - 548 AD during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De
• Architectural highlights: Ancient stupa, sacred bodhi tree (grown from a cutting from Buddha's original enlightenment tree)
• Best viewing times: Early morning (7 - 9 AM) for photography with minimal crowds
• Cultural experience: Witness monks' daily rituals, particularly active in October as they prepare for year-end ceremonies

October's pleasant climate means you can spend more time exploring the pagoda's intricate details without rushing. The site's spiritual tranquility feels enhanced by autumn's gentle ambiance, making it an especially meaningful visit during this month.

Tran Quoc Pagoda shines under clear skies and calm weather, offering a peaceful and photogenic glimpse into Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temple

Taste street food in the open air

October's dry, comfortable weather creates the perfect atmosphere for Hanoi's street food culture to shine. The mild temperatures allow vendors to set up more extensively, and diners can comfortably enjoy meals at outdoor stalls without summer's sweltering heat or winter's chill.

This month offers the unique opportunity to try cha ruoi (sandworm omelette), a seasonal delicacy only available in autumn. This distinctive dish combines sandworms (which appear in Hanoi's waterways in October) with pork, eggs, dill, and tangerine peel, creating a flavor that's uniquely associated with Hanoi's fall season.

Other street food experiences enhanced by October's pleasant climate include:

The cooler evenings make sidewalk dining especially appealing, allowing you to observe Hanoi's vibrant street life while enjoying these culinary treasures. It's a perfect way to soak in the local atmosphere, where the sounds, scents, and sights of the city come alive after sunset.

October’s cool, dry weather sets the stage for Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene, highlighted by seasonal specialties like the autumn-only sandworm omelette

Check the daisy season in Hanoi

October transforms Hanoi into a photographer's paradise with the arrival of cuc hoa mi (white daisy chamomile) season. These delicate flowers with their characteristic thin white petals surrounding bright yellow centers become Hanoi's unofficial October symbol, appearing throughout the city in stunning displays.

Street vendors carrying wicker baskets overflowing with freshly cut daisies create moving photo opportunities throughout Hanoi's bustling streets. For the most Instagram-worthy shots, visit these prime daisy viewing locations:

• Nhat Tan Flower Village: Sprawling fields of daisies with skyline views
• Song Hong (Red River) Rock Beach: Wild daisies growing amid unique riverside landscapes
• Quang An Flower Market: Early morning (4 - 6 AM) offers the freshest blooms and best lighting
• West Lake perimeter: Several smaller gardens feature daisy displays with water backdrops

Local photography tips suggest visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when October's distinctive light quality creates a warm glow across the daisy fields. Many cafes also incorporate these seasonal flowers into their decor during October. It offers charming indoor photo opportunities when paired with Hanoi's famous egg coffee or other local beverages.

October turns Hanoi into a floral wonderland as white daisies bloom across the city, offering dreamy photo spots from flower markets to lakeside gardens

Holiday in Hanoi in October

October in Hanoi brings more than just pleasant weather, it's also a month filled with significant cultural celebrations that provide visitors with deeper insights into Vietnamese traditions. Hanoi's October holidays celebrate culture, history, and community, offering tourists a chance to join locals in meaningful festivities.

Vietnamese Women's Day - October 20th

Vietnamese Women's Day celebrates the vital role women play in Vietnamese society and family life. Unlike International Women's Day in March, this distinctly Vietnamese celebration stems from the founding of the Vietnamese Women's Union in 1930.

In Hanoi, the day is marked by various meaningful activities:

• Gift-giving traditions: Men present flowers (typically roses), chocolates, or small gifts to the important women in their lives
• Special promotions: Restaurants, spas, and retail stores offer women - exclusive discounts throughout the city
• Cultural performances: Public venues host traditional music and dance shows highlighting women's contributions to Vietnamese culture
• School celebrations: Educational institutions organize special events where students honor female teachers

For travelers, this holiday provides a window into Vietnamese family dynamics and social values. Consider participating by visiting the Vietnamese Women's Museum on Ly Thuong Kiet Street, which features exhibits on women's roles throughout the nation's history.

Hanoi Liberation Day - October 10th

October 10th marks Hanoi's Liberation Day, a historically significant occasion commemorating the capital's freedom from French colonial rule in 1954. The city transforms during this patriotic celebration:

• Flag displays: The streets of Hanoi become adorned with red and gold Vietnamese flags
• Military parades: Occasionally held around Ba Dinh Square near Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Historical exhibitions: Museums such as the Vietnam Military History Museum offer special displays
• Free admission: Many historical sites offer complimentary entrance to both locals and tourists

You can experience this holiday best by visiting key historical locations:

Liberation Day with patriotic displays, historical exhibitions, and festive events across key landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter

Halloween - October 31st

While not traditionally Vietnamese, Halloween has gained popularity in Hanoi, particularly among young locals and expatriates. The Western holiday has been adapted with uniquely Vietnamese elements.

Halloween celebrations in Hanoi feature:

• Western-style parties: Expat bars in Tay Ho district host costume competitions and themed events
• Vietnamese fusion: Some celebrations incorporate local ghost stories and folklore
• Family-friendly activities: Shopping malls and entertainment centers organize trick - or - treating for children
• University events: Student-led costume parties and haunted houses at institutions like Hanoi University

For those seeking Halloween fun, the best spots include:

• The Old Quarter bars and clubs, which transform with spooky decorations
• West Lake area international venues catering to expatriates
• Shopping centers like Vincom Ba Trieu and Royal City, which organize family activities

This cultural fusion demonstrates how Hanoi embraces international traditions while maintaining its distinctive character. It reflects a city that is both globally connected and deeply rooted in its heritage.

Tips in Hanoi in October

Navigating Hanoi in October requires some strategic planning to make the most of this transitional month. As the city shifts from summer heat to autumn freshness, these practical recommendations will help you enjoy the capital comfortably while experiencing its authentic charm.

Essential packing recommendations

• Layer - friendly clothing: Pack items that can be easily added or removed as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day
• Light jacket or cardigan: Essential for cooler mornings (17 - 20°C) and evenings
• Breathable shirts and tops: For warmer afternoons (25 - 28°C)
• Quick-dry fabrics: Helpful for unexpected light showers that can occur
• Portable umbrella: Small enough to carry but sufficient for brief rain spells
• Sunglasses and hat: October sunshine can still be bright, especially between 11 AM - 3 PM

Apply sunscreen regularly despite the cooler temperatures. October's UV index in Hanoi can still reach moderate to high levels, particularly during clear afternoons. A SPF 30+ formula works well for most visitors, with reapplication recommended after 2 - 3 hours of outdoor exploration.

Footwear & mobility tips

Investing in proper footwear becomes especially valuable in October when Hanoi's walkability is at its peak. The city's narrow alleyways, historic quarters, and lakeside paths reveal their charm best on foot during this pleasant month.

• Walking shoes with good traction: Hanoi's sometimes uneven sidewalks require sturdy soles
• Waterproof options: Beneficial for occasional drizzle
• Breathable designs: Your feet will thank you after full days of exploration
• Pack band - aids: Even the best shoes can cause blisters during extended walking days

Consider renting a bicycle for certain days. October's milder climate makes cycling around West Lake or through the French Quarter particularly enjoyable. It offers a different perspective of the city.

Seasonal food experiences

You shouldn't miss the special October food festivals that sometimes pop up around the city. They're often held near Hoan Kiem Lake or in larger parks, where vendors showcase seasonal specialties not available year-round.

Event planning advice

• Check university bulletin boards: October is the academic season with interesting cultural events
• Look for outdoor exhibitions: Art shows often move outdoors in the pleasant weather
• Follow Hanoi Grapevine website: Updated calendar of cultural happenings
• Visit the Women's Museum: It often hosts special exhibitions in autumn
• Ask your accommodation: Local staff usually know about neighborhood events

Prepare for potential crowds during early October, as your visit may coincide with the tail-end of National Day celebrations, when domestic tourism in the capital can increase

October paints Hanoi in vibrant hues, offering you a unique blend of cultural richness and pleasant weather. Diving into the city's autumn charisma, you've likely found inspiration for an unforgettable journey, a time when Hanoi opens up with comfortable temperatures and vibrant festivals. There's something special about experiencing the heart of Vietnam during this time of year, when each moment feels like a snapshot of local life, framed by the crisp October air.

Your exploration doesn't end here. If you're drawn to scenic lakes or bustling street markets, your adventure is just beginning. Start planning your travel or perhaps daydream about future explorations, remember that GTrip is your guide along the way. As Hanoi beckons with countless stories waiting to unfold, let this be your motivation to dive deeper into discovering more enchanting destinations in Vietnam and beyond