Are you planning to travel Vietnam in the early spring? If your dates align with late January or February, you are in for an incredible treat. You will likely arrive right in the middle of Tet, the most vibrant and culturally rich festival in the country.
Experiencing the Vietnamese Lunar New Year is a bucket-list adventure. However, it also comes with its own unique set of quirks. To help you navigate the festivities like a pro, we have put together this comprehensive survival guide on what to expect when you travel Vietnam during Tet.
What is Vietnamese Tet?
Tet, officially known as Tết Nguyên Đán, is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It is the most important celebration in Vietnamese culture, think of it as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve all rolled into one. It is a time for renewal, paying respects to ancestors, and welcoming good fortune for the year ahead.
The Vietnamese Lunar New Year is a multi-week event divided into three distinct phases:
Before Tet (The preparation phase)
The festive spirit begins on the 23rd day of the final lunar month with the Ông Công Ông Táo (Kitchen Gods) ceremony. Vietnamese families release live golden carp into rivers to help the Kitchen Gods ride up to heaven to report on the family’s deeds over the past year.
In the days following, locals throw elaborate Tất Niên (Year-End) parties to celebrate the year’s hard work. Homes are scrubbed top to bottom to sweep away bad luck, and massive flower markets erupt in the streets.
New Year’s Eve (Giao Thừa)
Giao Thừa represents the sacred transition from the old year to the new. As midnight strikes, the skies of major cities light up with fireworks.
Families gather indoors to offer prayers and a lavish feast to their ancestors at the family altar. The streets suddenly fall quiet, and a sense of deep spiritual peace settles over the country.
The New Year (Tân Niên)
The first three days of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year are highly structured.
The first day is strictly reserved for immediate family and honoring the paternal side.
The second day is for the maternal side and visiting close friends.
The third day honors teachers and mentors.
Mark your calendars: Tet dates for 2026, 2027, and 2028
The date of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year fluctuates annually based on the lunar calendar, typically falling between late January and mid-February. If you plan to travel Vietnam in the coming years, keep these dates in mind:
- Tet 2026: February 17, 2026 (Year of the Horse)
- Tet 2027: February 6, 2027 (Year of the Goat)
- Tet 2028: January 26, 2028 (Year of the Monkey)
Note: The official public holiday usually spans about 7 days, starting a couple of days before Lunar New Year’s Day and extending several days after.
Typical signs that Tet is coming
You will know Tet is approaching before you even check a calendar. The most iconic sign?
Watching locals weave through chaotic traffic on motorbikes, effortlessly balancing towering peach blossom trees (in the North) or vibrant yellow apricot blossoms (in the South). Cities are suddenly draped in red decorations, stores blast upbeat Tet music on repeat, and everyone seems to be in a rush to wrap up their business before the holidays.
How locals celebrate the Vietnamese Lunar New Year?
For the Vietnamese, Tet is profoundly family-centric. It is the one time of the year when those working in major metropolises or industrial zones return to their rural hometowns.
Moreover, Tet is deeply rooted in tradition and superstition. Everything done during the first few days of the year is believed to set the tone for the next twelve months. Locals celebrate by setting up an intricate altar for their ancestors, adorned with a five-fruit tray (mâm ngũ quả), incense, and votive offerings. They dress in their finest clothes, often opting for a traditional áo dài or brand-new outfits in bright colors to attract good luck.
Temple visits are paramount. Families will dress modestly and flock to Buddhist temples and pagodas to pray for health, wealth, and peace. They pull fortune sticks, make donations, and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of the holiday.
A family gathered around making bánh chưng for Tet
Traditional Tet food: A feast of flavors and culture
You cannot fully experience Tet Vietnam without diving into the culinary masterpieces that define the holiday. During this time, families spend days preparing intricate dishes meant to be shared with guests and offered to ancestors.
The absolute star of the show is bánh chưng (in the North) or bánh tét (in the South), a square or cylindrical savory cake made of glutinous rice, mung beans, and fatty pork, wrapped tightly in green leaves and boiled for up to 12 hours. Locals balance this heavy dish with hành muối (crunchy pickled onions), boiled chicken, and various types of giò (Vietnamese sausage).
Want to dive deeper into the mouth-watering world of Tet cuisine?
A typical banh Tet in Southern Vietnam
Survival guide for travelers during Vietnamese Tet
While the Vietnamese Lunar New Year is incredibly beautiful, it presents unique logistical challenges for international visitors. Here is your essential survival guide to navigating your trip seamlessly.
Prepare for the “empty” city phenomenon
Travel Vietnam during the rest of the year, and you will find Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City buzzing with relentless, 24/7 energy. But during the first one or two days of Tet? They can feel almost like ghost towns. Millions of migrant workers and students leave the metropolises to return to their rural hometowns.
While the serene, traffic-free streets are a photographer’s dream, it means many local mom-and-pop shops, street food stalls, and independent boutiques will pull down their metal shutters for a few days.
Don’t panic, though! This phase is short-lived. Convenience stores (like Circle K or FamilyMart) operate 24/7, and a fair number of tourist-focused cafés, international restaurants, and hotel dining rooms remain open throughout the holiday.
Expect longer visa processing times
This is a critical point that catches many travelers off guard. All government offices, including immigration departments and embassies, close completely for about a week during the public holiday. Visa applications are halted, and there is no one processing approvals.
If your trip falls just before, during, or shortly after Tet, applying for your e-visa or visa approval letter early is strongly recommended. Do not leave it to the last minute, or you might face unexpected delays that could derail your entire itinerary.
Money exchange: Cash is king!
During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, cash becomes absolutely vital. In the days leading up to the holiday, companies pay out “Tet bonuses” to their employees, resulting in a massive surge of cash withdrawals. Consequently, ATMs frequently run completely out of cash.
Furthermore, all banks close for the duration of the holiday, making traditional currency exchange impossible. We strongly advise travelers to exchange plenty of money in advance.
If you find yourself in a pinch during the holiday, your best bets for currency exchange are international airports, authorized exchange spots, or the front desk of your hotels.
Stock up on essentials: Neccessary or not?
The short answer: it depends on where you are. Stocking up is generally unnecessary in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang, Supermarkets, shopping malls, and convenience stores keep their doors open.
However, if your itinerary takes you to smaller destinations, rural areas, or remote mountain villages (like Ha Giang, Pu Luong, or Phong Nha), limited options mean you need to plan ahead. Travelers heading off the beaten path should prepare essentials in advance, especially snacks, bottled water, specific toiletries, and any necessary personal medication, as local pharmacies will likely be closed
Book everything well ahead of time
Tet is Vietnam’s peak domestic travel period. It’s not just international tourists; millions of Vietnamese are also moving across the country for family visits or their own holiday getaways.
Availability for flights, train tickets, hotels, tours, and private cars drops remarkably fast and often sells out completely well in advance. Booking early is not just a suggestion; it is a necessity. Securing your reservations months prior helps guarantee better options, shields you from dynamic pricing spikes, and ensures a smoother, stress-free trip overall.
Be aware of limited taxis
Transportation is arguably the most affected sector during Tet Vietnam. If you rely on ride-hailing apps, expect delays. Services such as Grab or Xanh SM may be very limited in the days leading up to and during the peak of Tet, as many drivers take time off to be with their families.
For smoother travel within cities, metered taxis (like Mai Linh or Vinasun) or pre-arranged private vehicles through your travel agency or hotel are often the most reliable options, particularly for crucial journeys like airport transfers.
Expect holiday surcharges
When you travel Vietnam during this festive period, it is common to encounter holiday service fees. Vietnamese labor laws stipulate that employees working on public holidays must be paid substantially higher wages (often triple their normal rate).
To cover these costs, hotels, restaurants, spas, and tour operators will apply a Tet surcharge. Depending on the service or location, prices may increase by around 10% to 20%. This is entirely standard practice and not a tourist scam. Simply check menus or confirm prices in advance to avoid any surprises when the bill arrives.
Dress properly at temples and pagodas
Visiting Buddhist temples and pagodas during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year is a beautiful tradition. You will see locals flocking to these sacred sites carrying incense, offering fruit, and praying for peace, health, and good fortune for the year ahead.
As a visitor, you are warmly welcomed to observe and even participate, but strict etiquette applies. At all religious sites, it is best to dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees. Tank tops, shorts, and mini-skirts are considered highly offensive. Pack a lightweight sarong, scarf, or wrap in your day bag so you can easily cover up before stepping onto temple grounds.
Embrace the “lì xì” (lucky money) culture
One of the most heartwarming traditions of Tet Vietnam is the exchange of lì xì, lucky money tucked inside vibrant red and gold envelopes. Elders give it to children to bless them with growth and health, while younger generations give it to their aging parents to wish them longevity.
As a foreign guest, you might even receive one unexpectedly from a local host or hotel manager! If you do, receive it with both hands and say “Cám ơn!” (Thank you).
For travelers, giving lì xì can also be a polite, culturally sensitive, and meaningful way to tip your guides, drivers, or hotel staff. Tucking a crisp note into a red envelope (which you can buy at any street corner) and handing it to them will earn you brilliant smiles and immense gratitude.
Speak like a local: Essential Tet greetings
Connecting with locals becomes immensely easier if you can speak a few words of their language. Throwing out a festive greeting will instantly endear you to the Vietnamese people. Here are the most common phrases to memorize:
“Chúc Mừng Năm Mới” (Chook moong nahm moy): The standard “Happy New Year.” You can say this to absolutely anyone.
“An Khang Thịnh Vượng” (Ahn khan ting vuong): “Peace, health, and prosperity.” A slightly more formal wish for well-being.
“Vạn Sự Như Ý” (Vahn su nyu ee): “May ten thousand things go according to your wishes.” A phrase to wish someone ultimate success.
Lunar New Year Taboos: What not to do during Tet
Superstitions run high during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. Locals believe that the events of the first few days dictate the luck of the entire year. To be a culturally respectful traveler, avoid these common taboos:
Do not sweep the floor: Sweeping on the first three days of Tet is strictly forbidden in local homes, as it is believed you are sweeping away the family’s incoming wealth and good luck.
Avoid wearing fully black or fully white: These colors are traditionally associated with funerals and mourning. Opt for bright colors like red, yellow, or pink, which symbolize joy and prosperity.
Do not break anything: Shattering a glass or dropping a plate is considered an omen of a broken or fractured year. Be extra careful with fragile items!
No arguments or harsh words: Swearing, crying, or showing anger is thought to attract sorrow for the rest of the year. Keep a smile on your face and maintain a positive attitude.
Don’t be a random “First Footer”: The first person to enter a house after midnight (xông đất) is believed to determine the household’s fortune for the year. Homeowners carefully invite someone with a compatible zodiac sign to be the first to enter. Never visit a local’s house on the first day of Tet unless you have been explicitly and specifically invited.
Hang Ma Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Travel in Vietnam during Tet
Q: Is it actually a good idea to travel Vietnam during Tet?
Absolutely, as long as you plan ahead. You will witness the country at its most traditional, spiritual, and visually stunning. The atmosphere is festive, the locals are in high spirits, and cities are beautifully decorated.
Q: Are tourist attractions open during the holiday?
Most major historical and cultural tourist sites (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, etc.) remain open, though their operating hours might be slightly shortened on the eve or the first morning of the New Year. Some indoor museums might close for a few days, so check schedules in advance.
Q: How long does the Tet holiday actually last?
While the official public holiday usually spans about 5 to 7 days, the festive atmosphere lingers for a full two weeks.
Q: Where is the best place in Vietnam to celebrate the Lunar New Year?
Hanoi offers the most deeply traditional and atmospheric experience, with misty weather, historic pagodas, and vibrant flower markets. Hoi An is spectacular for its lantern-lit streets, while Ho Chi Minh City provides warm weather and massive, spectacular flower displays like the famous Nguyen Hue Floral Street.
Q: Will I starve because all the restaurants in Vietnam are closed during Tet?
Not at all! While local street food stalls might take a break, hotels, upscale dining venues, foreign-owned establishments, and tourist-focused restaurants remain fully operational.
Q: Can I still book a Halong Bay cruise during Tet?
Yes. In fact, spending the New Year cruising through the emerald waters of Halong Bay is a highly popular option. Cruise companies run their normal schedules and often host special gala dinners or dumpling-making classes onboard.
Q: How early should I book my flights and hotels for Tet?
We recommend booking domestic flights and accommodations at least 3 to 4 months in advance. Train tickets open a few months prior and sell out almost instantly, so book those the moment they become available.
Q: What is the weather like during Tet?
Because the country is so long, the weather varies drastically. The North (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong) will be chilly, misty, and atmospheric (pack a jacket!). The Center (Hue, Hoi An) will have mild, pleasant temperatures. The South (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Mekong Delta) will be hot and sunny.
Q: Is it safe to travel during the Tet holiday?
Vietnam is a very safe country, but pickpocketing can occur in highly crowded spaces like pre-Tet flower markets. Also, be exceptionally careful when crossing the streets in the days leading up to the holiday, as traffic becomes highly erratic with rushing locals.
Q: Can I join a local family for a Tet meal?
If you are invited, it is an incredible honor! Bring a small gift like a box of premium tea, a fruit basket, or imported chocolates. Remember to take off your shoes at the door, dress conservatively, and enjoy the overwhelming hospitality.
Final thoughts
Deciding to travel Vietnam during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year is an invitation to see the country through a deeply authentic lens. Yes, the logistics require a bit more legwork, the cities may quiet down temporarily, and you will need to plan your transport and cash flow with care. But the rewards are unparalleled. By following this survival guide, packing your patience, and embracing the festive spirit, your Tet Vietnam experience will undoubtedly be the highlight of your Southeast Asian adventure.
