Traveling to Vietnam during Tết (Lunar New Year) can be both rewarding and challenging. While the holiday offers rare cultural insight and quieter cities, it also brings widespread business closures, higher transport demand, and limited services in some areas. Whether Tết is a good time to visit depends on your travel style, flexibility, and expectations.



This guide explains what Tết is, when it happens, what stays open or closed, and how travelers can move around Vietnam smoothly during the holiday. With the right preparation, traveling during Tết can still be enjoyable, comfortable, and rewarding.

Tết, or Tết Nguyên Đán, is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year and the most significant cultural celebration in the country. It marks the beginning of a new year based on the lunar calendar and represents renewal, family, and fresh starts.



During Tết, Vietnamese people return to their hometowns to reunite with family, honor ancestors, and rest after a busy year. In importance, Tết is comparable to Christmas and New Year combined in Western countries. Work pauses, routines shift, and priorities move away from productivity toward togetherness. For visitors, this means experiencing Vietnam at a slower, more personal pace than usual.

When Is Tết in Vietnam?

Tết does not have a fixed date because it follows the lunar calendar. It usually falls between late January and mid-February, depending on the year.

In 2026, Tết in Vietnam takes place from February 14 to February 22, 2026.

Although the official public holiday lasts around 5–7 days, travel impacts typically extend beyond these dates. Transportation demand and business slowdowns often begin a few days before February 14 and gradually normalize after February 22.

For travelers, this longer “Tết window” is more important than the holiday dates themselves.

What Changes in Vietnam During Tết?

Vietnam does not completely shut down during Tết, but daily life changes noticeably. In large cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the streets often feel quieter, especially during the first days of the holiday, as many residents travel back to their hometowns. At the same time, festive decorations, flower markets, and seasonal displays appear everywhere, creating a distinct atmosphere that only exists during Tết.



Many small, family-run businesses temporarily close so owners can spend time with relatives. Larger establishments, tourist-focused restaurants, hotels, shopping malls, and major attractions usually remain open, though operating hours may be shorter or less predictable. Transportation, particularly domestic flights and trains, becomes much busier, and prices tend to rise due to demand.

Is Traveling to Vietnam During Tết a Good Idea?

Whether traveling during Tết is a good idea depends largely on a traveler’s expectations. Those who enjoy structure, predictability, and spontaneous planning may find Tết more challenging. Those who value cultural depth and are comfortable with a slower pace often appreciate the experience.



The main difficulty is not safety or organization, but availability. Services that are not booked in advance can be harder to find, and flexibility becomes limited. Travelers who plan key logistics ahead of time usually find Tết far less stressful than expected.

What Is Open and What Is Limited During Tết?

Airports and immigration services operate normally throughout Tết, and hotels continue welcoming guests. Tourist attractions, shopping malls, and well-established restaurants generally stay open, especially in major cities and resort areas.



In contrast, many local eateries and small shops close temporarily, and government offices are not operating. This creates an environment where pre-arranged services are reliable, while walk-in options can be unpredictable. Understanding this distinction helps travelers avoid unnecessary frustration.

How to Travel Smoothly During Tết in Vietnam

Traveling comfortably during Tết comes down to preparation rather than avoiding the holiday altogether. Booking flights, accommodation, and transportation in advance removes much of the uncertainty. Allowing extra time between destinations helps account for delays, and maintaining flexible expectations makes the experience far more enjoyable.



Rather than trying to see everything, many travelers find it more rewarding to slow down, focus on fewer places, and observe how locals celebrate this important time of year.

Practical Planning Tips

• Book flights and trains early
• Avoid overly tight itineraries
• Confirm hotel services in advance
• Carry some cash for small purchases
• Expect slower service and allow buffer time

The more essential services you arrange ahead of time, the more relaxed your trip will feel.

Why Transportation Planning Matters More During Tết

Transportation is often the most challenging part of traveling during Tết. As millions of people move across the country to visit family, availability becomes limited and prices increase. Relying on last-minute taxis or ride-hailing services can be stressful, especially late at night or after long flights.



Pre-booked airport transfers and intercity transport provide certainty during a period when spontaneity is difficult. Having clear pickup arrangements and confirmed pricing can significantly reduce stress at arrival and departure points.

Conclusion

Traveling to Vietnam during Tết is not about avoiding inconvenience, but about understanding context. Tết reshapes the country’s rhythm, prioritizing family and reflection over routine. Travelers who recognize this and plan accordingly often find the experience calmer, more intimate, and culturally rich.



With realistic expectations and thoughtful preparation, Tết can become a meaningful time to visit Vietnam rather than something to avoid.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling During Tết

Is Vietnam closed during Tết?

 No. Vietnam slows down, but airports, hotels, and tourist services continue operating.

Can tourists travel during Tết?

 Yes. Travel is possible, but advance planning is important.

Are airports open during Tết?

 Yes. Airports and immigration operate normally throughout the holiday.

Is traveling during Tết safe?

 Yes. Vietnam remains safe and generally calmer during Tết.



How long does Tết affect travel?

 Typically around 7–10 days, including before and after the main holiday.