Vietnam in winter: Time Out ranks, cuisine reigns supreme.

Time Out has announced its list of 20 winter destinations for 2025-2026, ranking Vietnam at number 16 and notably in the "Best for food" category. The magazine suggests the ideal time to explore Vietnam is from October to February of the following year, when the weather is stable, travel costs are considered affordable, and local experiences are diverse. Three destinations mentioned are Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Explore with suggestions from Time Out

Hanoi

Hanoi is suggested for its Old Quarter, small jazz clubs, and street food. In the northern climate, with temperatures around 12-15 degrees Celsius, a hot bowl of pho becomes a symbol of winter.

Hoi An

Hoi An impresses with its ancient atmosphere, Cao Lau noodles, and streets illuminated by shimmering lanterns at night.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is mentioned by Time Out as a dynamic metropolis with a diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife.

Cuisine reigns supreme.

In the "Best for Food" category, Time Out praised Vietnamese cuisine for its richness, accessibility, and wide range of prices, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. During the cold season in Northern Vietnam, hot pho is a quintessential dish: CNN has repeatedly called Vietnamese pho "the best soup in the world," and Lonely Planet included Hanoi pho in its list of "50 foods to try in a lifetime." In Hanoi, Pho Thin Bo Ho, served with poached eggs, is a popular choice for those in cold weather.

Timing and the destination picture

Time Out recommends visiting Vietnam between October and February of the following year to enjoy stable weather, affordable costs, and rich local experiences. In their list of 20 winter destinations, Thailand is highlighted for its beautiful beaches; Cape Town is suitable for short city getaways; Tenerife is the warmest place in Europe; Namibia is for wildlife lovers; and Cartagena excels in art. In the culinary category, Vietnam is considered a standout destination.

Regarding Time Out

Time Out is a UK-based travel and leisure magazine, founded in London in 1968 and now published globally in over 300 cities. Its content focuses on travel, food, culture, art, urban life, and experiences. Time Out's lists are based on travel surveys, expert reviews from its international editorial team, and current travel trends.

Quick factual information

• Vietnam's ranking: 16th out of 20 in the list of "The World's Most Exciting Winter Destinations" 2025-2026.
• Category: Best for food.
• Ideal period: October to February of the following year.
• Suggested destinations: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Winter temperatures in Northern Vietnam: around 12-15 degrees Celsius.
• Travel costs: considered affordable; food prices vary widely from street food to high-end restaurants.

Short itinerary suggestions

Between October and February, you can combine exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter, small jazz clubs, and street food; strolling through lantern-lit streets and enjoying Cao Lau in Hoi An; and savoring Ho Chi Minh City's diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. On cold days in Northern Vietnam (12-15°C), a hot bowl of pho is a perfect choice.