Why Many Travelers Avoid Vietnam During the Tet Holiday?

TTet Holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is the most important celebration in Vietnam. It’s a time for family reunions, traditional rituals, and nationwide travel as millions of people return to their hometowns. While Tet looks colorful and exciting on social media, it isn’t always the best time for travelers—especially if you value comfort, convenience, and flexibility.

Below is an honest look at the advantages and disadvantages of traveling during Tet Holiday, helping you decide whether it suits your travel style.

❌ Disadvantages of Traveling During Tet Holiday

Overcrowding everywhere
Tet is Vietnam’s largest annual migration. Airports, trains, highways, and popular attractions become extremely crowded, making travel slow and stressful.

Higher travel costs
Flights, buses, and hotels often sell out early and come with higher prices. Holiday surcharges are common, which can significantly impact travel budgets.

Closures and limited services
Many restaurants, shops, markets, and tour offices close for several days or operate with reduced hours, especially outside major cities.

Limited transportation flexibility
Transportation tickets are hard to change, delays are frequent, and last-minute plans are difficult during Tet.

✅ Advantages of Traveling During Tet Holiday

Unique cultural experience
Tet offers rare insight into Vietnamese traditions, from family rituals and ancestral offerings to flower markets, temples, and festive decorations.

Quieter cities after the first days
Once locals leave big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, streets can feel calmer and more peaceful.

Warm holiday atmosphere
Many locals are relaxed and welcoming, sharing greetings, smiles, and occasionally inviting visitors to join celebrations.

⚖️ Should You Travel During Tet?

Avoid traveling during Tet if you prefer smooth logistics, lower prices, and open services.
Consider traveling during Tet if you book early, plan carefully, and enjoy cultural immersion.

✈️ Travel tip: The best time to visit Vietnam is 1–2 weeks before or after Tet, when services are fully open and travel is much easier.

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