Hanoi Weather in March

In March, Hanoi steps into warm spring with comfortably mild weather and no lingering chill. While cloudy days are fairly common, there are only occasional light drizzles, which, however, don’t influence your itinerary a lot. In general, March is one of the best times to visit Hanoi.

Temperature

As March arrives, temperatures in Hanoi start to rise gradually. Daytime highs usually hover between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius (72 - 82 degrees Fahrenheit) - warm with a subtle hint of heat, ideal for wandering around the Old Quarter comfortably. Nighttime lows range from 17 - 20℃ (63 - 68℉); a light jacket is just right for a stroll by Hoan Kiem Lake.

Yet this pleasant mildness is sometimes disrupted. During this time, warm, humid air currents from southwest grow active and occasionally surge, pushing daytime high temperatures to around 30℃ (86℉). Meanwhile, water vapor lingers persistently, driving humidity levels up to 80%. Even at rest, a damp, mist-like feeling clings to your skin, making the apparent temperature noticeably higher than the actual readings.

Precipitation

In Hanoi, the average monthly rainfall in March is about 44 mm, with around 15 rainy days. Although the rainy days account for about half of the month, the precipitation is mostly light drizzle that lasts for a short time. Just grab an umbrella, and you can keep sightseeing as usual. 

Daytime and Sunshine Duration

In Hanoi during March, the sun rises at around 5:49 - 6:14, and sets at around 18:02 - 18:12, providing a full 12 hours of daylight. This gives you plenty of time to explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Cathedral and other attractions without having to rush to finish your itinerary before dark.

The only drawback is that the actual duration of sunlight is very short, only about two hours a day on average. The thick clouds, along with the moisture in the air, make the sky always seem a bit gloomy, and the photos taken may lack some brightness. However, unlike the scorching mid-summer sun that beats down relentlessly, UV rays at this time are significantly weaker.

Is March a Good Month to Visit Hanoi?

Yes, March is one of the best times to go to Hanoi. First of all, almost all climate factors are favorable for travel: overall warm temperature, a little rain, long daytime, and no scorching sun. Secondly, in March, vegetation grows and flowers bloom in competition, making the city even more colorful and providing you with a more delightful view.

What to Wear for Hanoi Trip in March

For the upper body: Prepare some breathable clothes, such as quick-drying short-sleeved T-shirts, cotton and linen shirts, and dresses. You also need to add a light jacket for the early morning and evening or rainy days.

For the lower body: Prepare sports shorts, thin long pants, skirts, etc. For feet, just bring sports shoes or sandals.

Travel Recommendations for Hanoi Trip in March

In addition to the must-visit classic attractions such as Ba Dinh Square, 36 Streets, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel and Train Street, we also recommend that you explore Hanoi in different ways based on the climate conditions.

On sunny days, Ba Vi National Park - roughly 50 km (31 miles) from downtown Hanoi - is perfect for a hike. The mountains are blessed with fresh air year-round, and in March, they’re covered in lush, vibrant vegetation, making it an ideal escape from the city’s traffic noise and exhaust fumes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of the woods.

If you encounter rainy or cloudy weather, you can experience a cooking class in Hanoi. Follow a local chef through the vegetable market to select fresh ingredients, and then learn to make local delicacies such as pho and spring rolls by yourself. The whole process is full of participation and gives you a sense of achievement.

Tips

1.In March, the air humidity is relatively high. It is recommended to prepare moisture-proof pouches to properly store paper documents such as passports and itineraries, as well as electronic devices like cameras to prevent them from getting damp and damaged. If clothes do not dry easily, you can use an air conditioner or fan to help.

2.When there is fog or rain, the flagstone pavement of the 36 Streets becomes particularly slippery and prone to causing slips. It is recommended to wear anti-slip sports shoes for sightseeing.

3.If you choose to hike in the mountains on a sunny day, be aware that the intensity of ultraviolet rays there is much higher than in urban areas. It is essential to apply high-SPF sunscreen. Also, mosquitoes are very active in the forest, so remember to carry and apply mosquito repellent in time.

Hanoi Weather by Month