Top 11 Incredible Family Travel Destinations for Lunar New Year in Vietnam

Traveling to Hue during Tet offers a unique and unforgettable way to welcome the new year in the ancient imperial city. After the 23rd of December in the lunar calendar, the streets along the banks of the Perfume River come alive with vendors selling a colorful array of flowers such as Ba Dau chrysanthemums, Phu Thuong dahlias, Nguyet Bieu lilies, and Dương Xuân apricot blossoms. If you're in Hue during Tet, be sure to visit Phong Dien to experience the bustling Tet markets and vibrant spring flower festivals, showcasing the local traditions and culture. On the 30th day of the Lunar New Year, Hue’s families prepare a festive meal, fill their homes with food and sweets, and shop for traditional Tet offerings. The city's markets are filled with more shoppers than usual, making for a lively, exciting atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to visit markets like the Thanh Tien flower village or to purchase local specialties like Sình village paintings or Chuon village Tet cakes.

Hue is also known for its tranquil, picturesque pagodas. Visiting the ancient temples during the Lunar New Year is a spiritual experience, where you can pray for health, prosperity, and good fortune in the coming year. Popular pagodas such as Thiên Mụ, Từ Đàm, Diệu Đế, and Huyền Không Sơn Thượng welcome visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, sip tea, and even participate in the traditional custom of writing New Year wishes. On the second day of Tet, Hue hosts exciting boat races along the river, where brightly colored boats compete while locals cheer from the banks. The festival lasts from early morning until late afternoon, filling the air with excitement and community spirit. From the first to the fifteenth day of the Lunar New Year, Hue also hosts various spring festivals, such as the fish worshiping festival in Lang Co, the spring tug-of-war in Điền Hòa, and the wrestling festivals at Sình village.

Established in the 16th century, Hoi An is an ancient town nestled along the serene Hoai River, with moss-covered houses that reflect the passage of time. Located about 30 kilometers south of the bustling city of Da Nang, Hoi An remains a peaceful and tranquil destination. With its rustic charm and simplicity, Hoi An captivates the hearts of travelers who visit, even if just once. Whether it’s early morning, sunset, or late at night, Hoi An during Tet presents its own unique beauty. In the early hours, as the town sleeps, you can quietly admire the dew on bougainvillea branches. At sunset, the fiery red sun illuminates the clouds at the end of the street, while the laughter of people fills the air, accompanied by the hum of bicycle wheels. At night, the full moon hangs brightly above the rooftops, lanterns light up every corner, and floating flower lanterns brighten the river—each moment creates unforgettable emotions.

During this time, Hoi An attracts many visitors, and the streets and alleys are livelier than usual. Yet, the calm atmosphere of the town remains. There is no rush or chaos, only slow, gentle footsteps blending with the rhythms of local life. The Japanese Covered Bridge, built by Japanese merchants in the 16th century, is a symbol of Hoi An and is a must-see for anyone visiting the ancient town. Over time, the bridge’s design has evolved, incorporating elements of Vietnamese and Chinese architecture. If you have more time, you can visit Cham Island, the Kim Bong Woodworking Village, the Tra Que Herb Village, and Cua Dai Beach—each of these destinations is beloved by travelers during the Tet holidays. You can even join a tour that combines both Da Nang and Hoi An to fully experience the spirit of this charming town.

With its lush nature, Phu Quoc is blessed with stunning blue seas, golden sands, and a perfect climate that enhances the beauty of every sunset over the water. Phu Quoc also draws tourists with its modern marvels like the Hon Thom cable car, Ho Quoc Pagoda, Vinwonders Phu Quoc, and Phu Quoc Safari. The island, already a natural paradise, becomes even more enchanting with the vibrant flowers that bloom during the Tet season, creating a magical atmosphere against the backdrop of the ocean. During this time, the island is full of life, with many local festivals that attract visitors from all over, such as the Lang Ong Temple Festival, Dinh Thien Duong Dong Festival, and An Thoi Shrine Festival.

Visiting Phu Quoc during Tet offers a chance for you and your family to immerse yourselves in the festive spirit while exploring the beauty of the island. The Tet holidays bring a unique cultural experience, with the island’s rich traditions and vibrant festivals creating unforgettable moments. Additionally, Tet is the perfect time for family reunions and vacations, allowing you to relax and enjoy memorable activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and squid catching. Phu Quoc during Tet is an ideal place to unwind, explore nature, and create lasting memories with loved ones.

With its high-altitude terrain, Da Lat enjoys a cool climate year-round, with chilly winters and misty mornings. Around January and February, which coincides with the Lunar New Year, the temperatures in Da Lat are refreshing, with nighttime temperatures dipping below 20°C and daytime highs around 25°C. Additionally, the rainy season in Da Lat ends before the New Year, leaving the city’s spring season dry and crisp – perfect for those who love a cool, fresh atmosphere. The cherry blossom season, which peaks between November and February, still lingers in the city during Tet, especially along roads like Trần Hưng Đạo, Lê Đại Hành, Dốc Đa Quý, Xô Viết Nghệ Tĩnh, Hồ Xuân Hương, and the path to Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery. These roads, lined with soft pink cherry blossoms, offer a magical and unforgettable sight. Although the flowers may not be as lush as in November, their delicate beauty still shines brightly during Tet.

For those visiting Da Lat during Tet, experiencing the New Year’s Eve fireworks amid the cool, misty weather is an exceptional treat. It’s a time when many Vietnamese people visit temples to pray for good fortune, peace, and a prosperous year ahead. While exploring Da Lat during this time, don’t miss the chance to visit its sacred temples, such as Linh Phước Pagoda, Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery, and Linh Quy Pháp Ấn, where you can relax, reflect, and enjoy panoramic views of this charming, mist-covered city.

Visiting Hanoi during Lunar New Year offers a rich cultural experience in the capital of northern Vietnam. Famous for its ancient beauty and centuries-old traditions, Hanoi is a prime destination for travelers in the early days of the New Year. The city has long been a favorite for tourists looking to explore its historic streets and monuments. Hanoi's well-developed transport system, including air, rail, and road networks, makes it easy for visitors to reach. However, during the holiday season, it’s recommended to book travel tickets in advance to avoid sold-out options. Whether by air, bus, or train, visitors can easily access the city and then take a leisurely rickshaw ride to explore its charm.

When visiting Hanoi for the Tet holiday, don’t miss the beautiful flower gardens like the Nhật Tân Flower Garden, located in the Tây Hồ district. This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike during the New Year. The garden is a stunning celebration of spring, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with the scents and colors of the season. You’ll also have the chance to capture beautiful photos of your travels. Another iconic destination is Long Bien Bridge, not just an important traffic link but a historic landmark that has witnessed the city’s evolution over the years. The bridge’s old-world charm makes it a must-see for visitors, and during Tet, it is often the site of performances and festive events. In addition to these popular spots, Hanoi boasts several ancient temples that draw large crowds during the spring festival, where visitors come to pray for good fortune and a prosperous year ahead.

Ninh Chu Beach is a peaceful 10 km stretch of coastline nestled between the blue waters, sky, and endless mountains. Located about 350 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Ninh Chu offers a tranquil escape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its calm atmosphere, the beach feels like a hidden paradise, offering a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Lunar New Year season is the perfect time to visit Ninh Chu, as the mild climate and clear skies provide an ideal setting to relax and enjoy the quiet surroundings. Despite its lack of dazzling lights and loud nightlife, Ninh Chu's peaceful environment has a magnetic pull that draws visitors back again and again. During Tet, you can witness the breathtaking sunrise and enjoy the gentle, cool breeze that the central coast rarely offers at this time of year.

The Ninh Chu Beach during Tet is not only stunning with its crescent-shaped shoreline stretching over 10 km, hugging the emerald waters, but it also boasts a beautiful natural landscape waiting for you to explore. The green casuarina trees, which form a distinctive canopy over the white sands, offer a perfect place to relax. The unique shapes of the Đá Chồng, Cà Đú, and Tân An mountains are also great spots for photo opportunities. With its calm waters, Ninh Chu is perfect for activities like fishing, swimming, snorkeling, and sailing. For an adventurous twist, you can try wild animal hunting in the casuarina forests. Just a short distance from Ninh Chu is the stunning Vĩnh Hy Bay, known for its beautiful twin beaches – Bãi Bà Điên and Bãi Cóc. The vibrant coral reefs in the bay, which rank among the top 9 most beautiful bays in Vietnam, provide an extraordinary glimpse into the colorful underwater world.

Visiting Nha Trang during the Lunar New Year offers a host of exciting experiences as you witness the transition from the old year to the new one. Traditional festivals, along with vibrant activities, fill the city with joy and energy. Nha Trang's climate is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season from September to December, when the weather is cool and refreshing, and the dry season from January to August, which is perfect for beach activities and relaxation. During Tet, Nha Trang is particularly lively, with cultural festivals that showcase the region's rich heritage. If you visit during the New Year, don’t miss VinWonders Nha Trang, an exciting amusement park located on Hon Tre Island just 5 km from the city center. It’s a great place to celebrate the holiday season, with beautiful decorations and impressive performances that will leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

While in Nha Trang, make sure to visit the Nha Trang Mountain Church, a famous landmark known for its classic architecture and stunning views, providing the perfect photo spots. It’s particularly beautiful during Tet, when the church is decorated with blooming peach and apricot flowers. Visitors often come to the church to pray for peace and luck, and you can also join in the local custom of “hái lộc” (lucky picking) to start the year with good fortune. Another must-visit site is the Ponagar Tower, an ancient Cham structure dating back over 10 centuries. During Tet, the tower hosts cultural performances, including traditional Cham dance, to celebrate the new year. It's a popular spot for visitors to pray for prosperity in the coming year, although it can get crowded during this festive period.

Cô Tô Island, Quảng Ninh, with its untouched beauty and charm, is a favorite destination for thousands of visitors every year, especially during Tet. Located in the eastern part of Quảng Ninh province, Cô Tô is an archipelago made up of around 50 islands covering 46.2 km². The Cô Tô district has approximately 1,500 households and nearly 6,000 residents. Among the islands, both Cô Tô Island and Cô Tô Con are known for their stunning beaches. This region holds vast potential for tourism development. Cầu Mỵ Beach, often referred to as the “paradise of love and youth,” stands out for its beauty. The area is shaped like a mouse’s tail and faces the sea, located on the southern part of Cô Tô Island. The sedimentary rocks here, eroded by the sea over thousands of years, create a one-of-a-kind natural wonder in Vietnam. From higher ground, you can take in the breathtaking views that might remind you of the Mediterranean coast.

Additionally, the Cô Tô Lighthouse is another fascinating spot. Situated in the eastern part of the Vân Đồn Archipelago, this lighthouse stands at the highest point of Cô Tô Island, about 5 km from the town. Built in the late 19th century, the lighthouse offers panoramic views from 118 meters above sea level. The winding path up to the lighthouse is surrounded by dense forests and vibrant purple flowers, and visitors can enjoy the stunning vistas of the distant ocean, the lush green forests, the crystal-clear waters, and the peaceful town below. A visit to Cô Tô during Tet would not be complete without experiencing this unforgettable site.

Sapa is a mountainous district in Lao Cai, a quiet and humble region that conceals a breathtaking natural paradise. From the heart of the town, visitors can gaze upon towering mountain peaks that stretch endlessly into the horizon. The scenery of Sapa is a harmonious blend of nature and human creativity, with its hilly landscapes and lush green forests. It's as if the landscape were designed with perfect balance, creating a dreamlike destination full of captivating sights. Beyond the favorable weather, the beauty of Sapa in February, during Tet, is a major draw, attracting countless travelers from all over the country to the northern highlands. It offers a perfect retreat to enjoy precious family time during the longest holiday of the year. Let's explore what makes the Tet trip to Sapa so enchanting for visitors.

In early February, during Tet, Sapa experiences the transition from winter to spring. This is when flowers begin to bloom, and the atmosphere becomes vibrant with festive cheer. Both nature and the people of Sapa are filled with renewed energy. Tet is also the season for the vivid pink peach blossoms and pure white plum flowers that blanket the roads, valleys, and mountainsides of the misty town. The fresh beauty of these blossoms amidst the fog and golden sunlight is what draws travelers to Sapa during Tet. Visitors to Sapa not only fall in love with the stunning natural beauty but also with the rich cultural heritage of the region. The ethnic minorities of the highlands live simply and humbly in peaceful villages, wearing traditional clothing. Tet is also a time for many local festivals, filling the air with music, laughter, and the sound of traditional instruments like the khèn and sáo.

Yen Tu Pagoda, Quang Ninh is one of the most significant pagodas in Vietnam, renowned for its spiritual significance. At the peak of the sacred Yen Tu Mountain, visitors can explore a historical site with ancient pagodas and towers surrounded by centuries-old trees. Yen Tu has also become the center of Vietnamese Buddhism since King Tran Nhan Tong renounced the throne to seek enlightenment and founded the Truc Lam Zen sect, known as Truc Lam Yen Tu Buddhism. Historical records tell us that after abdicating, King Tran Nhan Tong donned monk robes to find peace and forget the struggles of life. He established a distinct Vietnamese school of Zen Buddhism, the Truc Lam Zen, and became the first patriarch with the Dharma name Dieu Ngu Giac Hoang (1258-1308). The king commissioned the construction of hundreds of temples and structures on Yen Tu Mountain for meditation and teaching purposes.

In the past, the only way to reach the top of Yen Tu Mountain and the legendary Phu Van Peak was by foot, following a winding path through thick forests of bamboo and pine trees. Today, visitors can also choose to take the modern cable car, traveling over 1 km and enjoying a panoramic view of the Yen Tu mountain range. However, many still prefer the traditional walking route to fully experience the natural beauty of the area. A one-day, one-night trip is ideal for exploring Yen Tu, but it's also possible to go there and return on the same day. Keep in mind that during Tet, the site can be crowded, while visiting during regular days offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere with fresh, crisp air.

The Lunar New Year is a popular time for tourists to visit Da Nang, bringing a lively and festive atmosphere to the city. Ba Na Hills stands out as the most famous destination during Tet in Da Nang, thanks to its perfect weather, stunning views, and exciting attractions. Although you may have to wait in line for the cable car due to the high volume of visitors, the breathtaking mountain scenery from above is well worth the wait. Another must-do activity during Tet in Da Nang is enjoying the beaches. No trip to this coastal city would be complete without a beach visit. Some of the most popular beaches in Da Nang include My Khe Beach, Non Nuoc Beach, Bac My An Beach, and Nam O Beach, as well as the beaches on the Son Tra Peninsula.

If you're visiting Da Nang during the early days of the year, don't forget to head to the Son Tra Peninsula and visit the Linh Ung Pagoda to pray for good fortune. Da Nang is home to three Linh Ung Pagodas—one at Ba Na Hills, one at Ngũ Hành Sơn, and the largest one on Son Tra Peninsula. The Son Tra statue stands out with its towering 67-meter-tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy, making it the largest statue in Vietnam. Ngũ Hành Sơn, a cluster of five unique mountains with winding caves and scenic beauty, is another fascinating destination to explore. A few hours are enough to discover Ngũ Hành Sơn, so it can easily be combined with visits to other nearby attractions. If you're unsure about where to go in Da Nang during Tet, Ngũ Hành Sơn is definitely worth a visit!