Tet Nguyen Dan — Vietnamese Lunar New Year — is the most important holiday in Vietnam. Traveling during Tet offers cultural depth unavailable at any other time of year, but it requires advance planning and realistic expectations.
When Is Tet?
Tet falls on the first day of the Lunar New Year — typically late January to mid-February. The main celebrations span several days before and after New Year Day, and the holiday atmosphere lasts 2-3 weeks.
Getting Around During Tet
Transportation becomes significantly more expensive and challenging. Planes, trains, buses, and airport transfers can book out weeks in advance. Book all transport 4-8 weeks ahead. Stay vigilant about personal security in crowded transit hubs where pickpocketing increases.
What Is Open and Closed?
Tourist destinations like Hoi An, Hanoi Old Quarter, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City maintain some operations, but most establishments run with reduced staff. Many locals leave cities to return to their home provinces. Expect some businesses completely closed for 3-7 days around New Year Day.
How to Interact With People During Tet
Vietnamese culture places deep significance on first interactions of the new year. Approach interactions with patience, smile readily, and acknowledge good service with tips. Avoid bargaining — it is considered unlucky at Tet.
What to Do in Hanoi During Tet
- Fireworks at Hoan Kiem Lake: Major display just before midnight. Arrive at the West side around 11:30pm.
- Temple visits: Ngoc Son Temple (Hoan Kiem Lake), Tran Quoc Temple (over West Lake, 1,450 years old), Temple of Literature
- Au Co flower market: Near West Lake — major flower market on Tet Eve
- Empty streets photography: On New Year Day around 6am, Hanoi streets fall silent — outstanding photography opportunity
What to Do in Hoi An During Tet
- Riverside fireworks: Display over the river just before midnight. Book riverside restaurant balconies in advance.
- Temple visits: Van Duc Pagoda (national heritage site); Lady Buddha at Da Nang (about 1 hour away)
- Night market: Operates through most of Tet — selling trinkets, incense, and lucky items
What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City During Tet
- Saigon River fireworks: Display over the Saigon River (Thu Thiem, District 2) just before midnight
- Nguyen Hue flower street: Walking street transforms with thousands of flowers and decorations
- Empty streets: More restaurants stay open than in Hanoi. Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Post Office, Independence Palace all accessible.
Practical Tips
- Book tours 2-4 months in advance
- Reserve hotels early for better prices and availability
- Plan itineraries around closed attractions
- Exchange currency before the holiday period — banks may close