Jan - 21 - 2026
Ho Chi Minh City's weather in November marks a wonderful transition into the dry season, making it a prime time to explore Vietnam's vibrant southern metropolis. As monsoon rains fade, Saigon welcomes visitors with clearer skies and warm, comfortable days. In this comprehensive GTrip guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect November getaway. We’ll cover key weather details, ideal seasonal activities, smart packing tips, and local holidays to help you make the most of your trip.
Is November a good time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, November is an excellent time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. It is widely considered one of the best months of the year for a trip. The reason is simple: November signals the official start of the dry season. The heavy, persistent rains of the preceding months have largely passed, and the stifling humidity begins to decrease significantly. This leaves you with a climate that is warm and pleasant, but not overwhelmingly hot and sticky, creating the perfect conditions for sightseeing and exploration.
The city is full of energy as locals and tourists alike take advantage of the improved weather. It’s the sweet spot before the peak tourist crowds of December and January arrive, offering a more relaxed experience. If you want to explore historical landmarks, dive into the world-famous street food scene, or simply soak up the atmosphere at a sidewalk cafe, November provides the ideal climatic backdrop.
November is one of the best times to visit Ho Chi Minh City, thanks to the start of the dry season, pleasant temperatures, and ideal conditions for exploring
What is the weather like in Ho Chi Minh City in November?
In November, Ho Chi Minh City welcomes sunnier days, lower humidity, and fewer rain showers. This pleasant transition creates some of the most comfortable weather of the year, ideal for exploring the city with ease. Here’s what you can expect.
Average temperature in November
The temperatures in November are comfortably warm without being oppressive. You can expect the average daily temperature to hover around 27°C (81°F). Daytime highs typically reach a pleasant 31°C (88°F), ideal for sightseeing, while evenings and early mornings cool down to a comfortable 24°C (75°F). This slight drop in temperature at night is perfect for enjoying the city’s bustling nightlife, rooftop bars, and vibrant street food markets without breaking a sweat. The heat is much less intense than in the scorching months of March and April, allowing for extended periods of outdoor exploration.
Humidity in Ho Chi Minh City in November
One of the biggest advantages of visiting in November is the noticeable drop in humidity. While Ho Chi Minh City is a tropical destination and always has some level of humidity, November sees average levels drop to around 77%. This is significantly more comfortable than the 80 - 85% humidity common during the peak rainy season months of July, August, and September. For travelers, this means the air feels less "heavy" and sticky. You'll find that walking through the city's districts is a much more pleasant and less draining experience.
Rainfall in Ho Chi Minh City in November
November marks a dramatic decrease in precipitation as the dry season takes hold. The city sees an average rainfall of about 117mm (4.6 inches) spread across approximately 12 days. Crucially, the nature of the rain changes. Instead of the prolonged, heavy downpours that can define the wet season, November's rain typically manifests as short, infrequent afternoon showers. These brief showers often pass quickly, leaving fresh, clean air in their wake, and are very unlikely to disrupt your travel plans significantly. It’s wise to carry a small umbrella, but you generally won't have to plan your entire day around the weather forecast.
Air quality and average UV levels in Ho Chi Minh City
The air quality in Ho Chi Minh City during November is generally in the "Moderate" range on the Air Quality Index (AQI). The occasional brief rains help to clear pollutants from the atmosphere. While it's typically fine for most travelers, those with severe respiratory sensitivities may want to check daily reports. More importantly, the UV index remains high even with milder temperatures. With an average of 12 hours of daylight and plenty of sunshine, it is essential to protect your skin. Be sure to apply a high-SPF sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and use sunglasses, especially when exploring between 10 AM and 4 PM.
Air quality is generally moderate in November, but strong UV levels mean sun protection is essential while exploring the city
Typical weather trends in November
Overall, November is a month of positive transition. The weather progressively improves as the month goes on, with late November being noticeably drier and sunnier than the first week. You can expect an average of 6 - 7 hours of direct sunshine per day, a significant increase from the rainy season. This abundance of light is perfect for photography, illuminating the city’s colorful markets and French colonial architecture. The combination of warm days, comfortable evenings, and decreasing rain makes it a consistently reliable and delightful month for any visitor to Saigon.
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in November
The glorious weather in November opens up a world of possibilities, making it the perfect time to enjoy a blend of Ho Chi Minh City's iconic indoor and outdoor attractions. The comfortable temperatures and lower chance of rain mean you can plan your days with confidence, if you're interested in culture, history, food, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere. Here are some of the best activities to add to your November itinerary.
Explore the city with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus
For an efficient and comfortable overview of Ho Chi Minh City's major landmarks, the Saigon hop-on hop-off bus is an excellent choice. The cooler November weather makes the open-top upper deck particularly enjoyable, allowing for fantastic, unobstructed views and photos. You can listen to an audio guide explaining the history of each site and choose which attractions you want to explore more deeply. It’s a stress-free way to navigate the city's often-chaotic traffic.
Enjoy a relaxed sightseeing experience with an open-top hop-on hop-off bus tour that highlights the city’s top landmarks without the traffic stress
Take a scenic Saigon River Water Bus tour
Escape the city's traffic and see it from a completely different perspective with a trip on the Saigon River water bus. The cool river breeze is incredibly refreshing in the November warmth, and the journey provides spectacular views of the evolving skyline. You'll glide past a mix of old and new Vietnam, seeing traditional stilt houses alongside glittering skyscrapers. It’s a relaxing, affordable, and picturesque way to spend an hour or two. Sights you may see from the water bus include:
- Landmark 81: Southeast Asia’s tallest skyscraper, dominating the skyline.
- Bitexco Financial Tower: The iconic lotus-shaped building in the city center.
- Vinhomes Central Park: A massive, modern residential area with a beautiful park along the river.
- Local life along the riverbanks: Glimpses of daily activities and smaller communities.
Enjoy local art and cultural performances
Evenings in Ho Chi Minh City are a great time to immerse yourself in Vietnamese arts and culture. As the city lights up, head indoors to witness breathtaking performances that showcase the nation's traditional and contemporary creative spirit. These shows are a fantastic way to cap off a day of sightseeing and offer entertainment that transcends language barriers. Top cultural venues and shows include:
- The AO Show at Saigon Opera House: A world-class performance blending acrobatics, contemporary dance, and theatrical visuals to tell stories of Vietnamese life, all set within the stunning French colonial Opera House.
- Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater: A classic and uniquely Vietnamese art form where puppets act out traditional folktales on a stage of water. It's a whimsical and entertaining experience for all ages.
- IDECAF Theater: A popular stage for contemporary Vietnamese drama and comedy.
Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s vibrant performing arts scene with cultural shows that bring local traditions and modern creativity to life
Taste authentic food in Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon is a paradise for food lovers, and the mild November weather makes culinary exploration even more delightful. It’s comfortable enough to join a walking street food tour through winding alleyways or to simply sit on a tiny plastic stool on the sidewalk, savoring a hot bowl of soup. For those seeking the high-end restaurants or humble food carts, the city’s food scene is always buzzing with incredible flavors. Be sure to try local specialities such as:
- Pho: Vietnam's national dish, a fragrant noodle soup, with regional variations between the North and South.
- Banh mi: A delicious Vietnamese sandwich in a crispy baguette, filled with pate, various meats, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables.
- Com tam: "Broken rice" topped with grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin, and a steamed egg meatloaf.
- Banh xeo: A crispy, savory Vietnamese pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, served with fresh lettuce and herbs for wrapping.
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Experience Saigon’s sidewalk coffee culture
Coffee is more than just a drink in Vietnam, it’s a way of life. The tradition of "ca phe bet" better known as Saigon sidewalk coffee, is a quintessential Saigon experience. With the pleasant November weather, there’s no better time to join the locals on the pavement, sip on a strong iced coffee, and watch the city move at its own pace. It’s an authentic, affordable way to connect with everyday Saigon and feel the true pulse of the city. The best spots are often defined by atmosphere rather than any specific cafe:
- Sidewalk coffee opposite Notre Dame Cathedral (at night): After dark, this area comes alive with young people gathering on newspapers spread on the ground, creating a lively, social atmosphere.
- Sidewalk coffee in 30/4 Park (in the morning): This park, located between the Independence Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral, is a popular morning spot for locals to exercise, chat, and enjoy their first coffee of the day.
Experience Saigon like a local by enjoying sidewalk coffee culture, strong brews, open air, and the vibrant life of the city all around you
Holidays in Ho Chi Minh City in November
Unlike some other months, November in Vietnam has no major public holidays that lead to widespread business closures. This ensures that all shops, museums, and restaurants will be operating on their normal schedules throughout your trip. However, there is one significant cultural observance that you may encounter: Vietnamese Teacher's Day (Ngay Nha giao Viet Nam) on November 20th.
This day is a deeply respected tradition where students across the country express their gratitude to their teachers. You will see a festive atmosphere around schools, with students bringing flowers, gifts, and well-wishes to their educators. Many schools hold special ceremonies and performances. For a traveler, this doesn't impact logistics but offers a heartwarming glimpse into Vietnamese culture and the high value placed on education. You may notice more flower shops being particularly busy in the days leading up to November 20th.
Important notes when traveling to Ho Chi Minh City in November
To ensure your November trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, keep these practical tips in mind. The fantastic weather makes packing and planning straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way.
- Pack light clothing: Lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking materials are your best friends. T-shirts, shorts, skirts, and light trousers are perfect.
- Bring a light jacket or cardigan: Essential for overly air-conditioned indoor spaces like malls, cinemas, and some restaurants, as well as for the slightly cooler evenings.
- Don't forget an umbrella or light raincoat: While rain is infrequent, a compact umbrella is a smart addition to your daypack for those short, unexpected afternoon showers.
- Use sunscreen and a hat: The sun's UV rays are strong. Protect yourself daily with high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to avoid sunburn.
- Book accommodation and tours in advance: November is the start of the high season. To get your preferred hotel and secure spots on popular tours, it’s wise to book at least a few weeks ahead.
- Stay hydrated: Even with lower humidity, you're in a tropical climate. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and energized.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable sneakers or sandals are a must.
Smart travel tips help you enjoy November in Ho Chi Minh City to the fullest, pack light, stay sun-safe, plan, and keep comfort in mind for every adventure
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Ho Chi Minh City weather in November strikes a perfect balance between sunshine, comfort, and the city’s vibrant cultural rhythm. As Saigon transitions into the dry season, clearer skies, pleasant temperatures, and lower humidity create ideal conditions for exploring. From tranquil pagodas and historic landmarks to buzzing street food alleys and iconic coffee streets, everything feels more accessible with minimal weather interruptions. November highlights Saigon at its most welcoming dynamic yet easy to enjoy. With favorable weather and endless experiences on offer, Ho Chi Minh City in November is an excellent time to visit with GTrip – Vietnam Travel Agency.
