The city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam, is abundant in history and culture. Nestled along the banks of the Huong River, Hue exudes a serene and poetic charm, captivating visitors with its ancient citadel, majestic tombs, and tranquil pagodas. The city’s rich heritage is reflected in its elegant architecture, refined cuisine, and the gentle demeanor of its people.
Each season in Hue unveils a unique facet of its beauty, from the vibrant festivals of spring to the romantic mists of autumn. Whether you’re exploring the imperial city, cruising along the Huong River, or savoring the local delicacies, Hue offers a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past and enduring traditions.
1. Weather in Hue
Like other provinces and cities in the South-Central region, the weather in Hue is not divided into four seasons but only has a rainy season and a dry season with distinct characteristics.
The rainy season in the ancient capital of Hue starts from October to February of the following year. During this time, the weather in Hue is very cold, averaging around 20 – 22 degrees Celsius due to the influence of the Northeast monsoon. However, during periods of intense cold, the weather in Hue can drop to around 10 degrees Celsius.
The dry season in the ancient capital of Hue starts from April to September. This is the time when most tourists choose to visit because it rains less, making travel more convenient.
What season is the best to travel to Hue
2.1 January to March: Spring in Hue welcomes warm sunshine
At this time, the cold air gradually dissipates, making way for gentle sunlight and a slight breeze that sways a hundred petals. If you visit Hue during this month, you will encounter a peaceful city immersed in the New Year atmosphere, bustling and full of life yet equally graceful.
In particular, during this time, Hue hosts many festivals, such as the Gia Lạc spring fair, the Sinh village wrestling festival, and the Ngư Brigde festival, which are very lively and unique. If you want to go sightseeing, this is the perfect time to visit outdoor locations such as Hue National High School, Hue Citadel, Mausoleum of King Khai Dinh, etc.
2.2 April: Hue Festival Season
If you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of festival season, then April is the answer to the question of when is the best time to visit Hue. Because in this month, Hue will hold a Festival with a series of lively and attractive events, imbued with the cultural and artistic values of various regions of Vietnam, such as the Giao Offering Ceremony, the Ao Dài Festival, the Kinh Ky Culture, Street Colors, etc.
It can be said that this is the time when the usually quiet city of Hue becomes the most bustling and brilliant with thousands of candles and lanterns. If you traveling Hue this time, you should rent a cruise to stroll along the Hương River to feel each gentle breeze, admire the brilliant beauty of the city on both banks, and immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and songs. Also, don’t forget to enjoy Hue’s specialties such as sweet soup, steamed rice cakes, and steamed flat rice dumplings.
2.3 May to July: Beach Tourism Season
May to July is also a suitable time for beach tourism, escaping the sweltering heat of the ancient capital. At this time, Hue, although with less rain and convenient travel, has a relatively high temperature, strong sun, and little wind. In return, the sea in Hue is very beautiful this season with clear blue water and gentle waves, suitable for beach tourism activities.
Lang Co Beach and Thuan An beach are some places you should visit during this time. Or you can explore the Tam Giang lagoon, Truoi lagoon, and Lap An lagoon to experience the life of fishermen through activities such as fishing, enjoying food on the lagoon, and watching the sunset.
2.4 August: Romantic and Poetic Autumn in Hue
In August, Hue puts on a romantic, gentle, and shy beauty like a young girl. During this time, Hue has quite cool weather, clear blue skies, gentle breezes, and no longer the harsh sun of summer. However, sometimes, Hue brings light rains, cooling the entire city.
In such beautiful weather, what could be better than visiting the famous pagodas and tombs in Hue such as Thien Mụ Pagoda, Mausoleum of King Minh Mạng , Hue Citadel, etc. Or visit the top of Ngu Binh Mountain, Vong Canh Hill, Ngu Phung Pavilion, etc. to sip a hot cup of tea in a quiet space while watching the rain fall.
2.5 September to December: Winter in the Ancient Capital
Winter is the perfect choice for those who love the chilly feeling and want to see the contemplative city. Traveling to Hue during this time, you will have interesting experiences such as sitting in a roadside cafe watching the drizzling rain or wrapping yourself in thick warm clothes and breathing out warm breaths.
In particular, in winter, the cuisine in Hue seems to become more delicious. Don’t miss hot and spicy foods such as bun bo (beef noodle soup), com hen (mussel rice), banh canh (thick noodle soup), etc. to eat, inhale, and exhale warm breaths.