Things to Do in Hanoi in April

April Weather in Hanoi

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperature for walking tours - 22-27°C (71-81°F) is ideal for exploring Old Quarter's narrow streets without the scorching summer heat
Lush green landscapes after spring rains make temple gardens and Hoan Kiem Lake particularly photogenic
Fewer tourists than peak season (November-March) means shorter queues at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and easier restaurant reservations
Fresh spring ingredients create peak season for Vietnamese cuisine - bánh chưng, nem rán, and seasonal fruits are at their best

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days between 2-5 PM, requiring flexible outdoor plans
High humidity (75%) makes air feel 3-5°C (5-9°F) hotter than actual temperature
Increased rainfall can flood some Old Quarter streets for 30-60 minutes after heavy downpours

Best Activities in April

Old Quarter Walking and Street Food Tours

April's mild mornings (22-24°C/71-75°F) are perfect for navigating Hanoi's bustling streets before afternoon heat sets in. The post-rain air clears pollution, making photography ideal. Spring vegetables and herbs are peak season, so phở, bún chả, and bánh mì taste exceptional.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours (8-11 AM) to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Expect to pay 800,000-1,200,000 VND ($32-48) for 4-hour guided experiences. Look for operators who provide rain contingency plans and indoor market visits.

Halong Bay Day Trips and Overnight Cruises

April offers calm seas and dramatic cloudy skies perfect for limestone karst photography. Post-rain visibility can exceed 15 km (9.3 miles), revealing distant formations. Temperatures stay comfortable on deck without summer's brutal heat.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 2,000,000-3,500,000 VND ($80-140), overnight cruises 4,000,000-8,000,000 VND ($160-320). Book through operators offering covered dining areas for rain protection. Tours typically depart 8 AM, return 6 PM.

Temple and Pagoda Cycling Routes

Cool morning temperatures and spring blooms make cycling to Temple of Literature, Bach Ma Temple, and Ngoc Son Temple ideal. Rain-washed streets are cleaner, and temple gardens are lush green. Avoid 2-5 PM when thunderstorms peak.

Booking Tip: Half-day guided tours cost 600,000-1,000,000 VND ($24-40). Self-guided bike rentals run 200,000-300,000 VND ($8-12) daily. Choose operators providing rain ponchos and flexible timing for weather delays.

Sapa Mountain Trekking Tours

April marks prime trekking season with temperatures 5-8°C (9-14°F) cooler than Hanoi at 1,500 m (4,921 ft) elevation. Rice terraces show fresh green shoots, and wildflowers bloom across mountain trails. Clear post-rain visibility extends 20+ km (12+ miles).

Booking Tip: 2-day/1-night tours cost 3,000,000-5,000,000 VND ($120-200). Book 14-21 days ahead as April is peak mountain season. Look for homestay experiences and operators providing proper rain gear for afternoon showers.

Mekong Delta River Tours

April's high water levels from spring rains allow boats to access narrower canals typically unreachable in dry season. Floating markets are fully stocked with seasonal fruits, and river temperatures are perfect for short boat rides without summer heat exhaustion.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours from Hanoi cost 1,800,000-2,800,000 VND ($72-112). Multi-day Mekong experiences run 4,000,000-7,000,000 VND ($160-280). Book tours with covered boats and indoor lunch options for rain protection.

Cooking Classes and Market Tours

Spring vegetable season brings exceptional ingredients to Dong Xuan and Cho Hom markets. Indoor cooking classes provide perfect rainy-day activities, and April's produce selection includes seasonal herbs and vegetables unavailable other times of year.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes cost 1,200,000-2,000,000 VND ($48-80). Book morning sessions (9 AM-1 PM) to include fresh market shopping before afternoon rains. Look for classes offering recipes adaptable to home ingredients.

April Events & Festivals

Early to Mid April (10th day of 3rd lunar month)

Hung Kings Festival (Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương)

Vietnam's most important national festival honoring legendary kings. Massive celebrations at Hung Kings Temple in Phu Tho province with traditional music, dragon dances, and ceremonial offerings. Hanoi temples also hold special ceremonies.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon thunderstorms are intense but brief, lasting 20-45 minutes

Quick-dry clothing only - 75% humidity means cotton takes hours to dry, synthetic fabrics dry in 30-60 minutes

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - sudden downpours can damage electronics in seconds

Breathable walking shoes with grip - wet marble temple floors and rain-slicked Old Quarter stones are extremely slippery

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 plus reflection off wet surfaces increases burn risk significantly

Lightweight long pants for temple visits - required for entry, and protection from mosquitos in humid evening air

Small umbrella for sudden showers - more convenient than rain jacket for brief afternoon storms

Moisture-wicking undergarments - essential for comfort in 75% humidity that feels like 84-90°F (29-32°C)

Insect repellent with DEET - increased rainfall creates more mosquito breeding areas around Hoan Kiem Lake

Waterproof day bag - protect documents, electronics, and souvenirs during unexpected downpours

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodation with covered motorbike parking - many hotels charge extra for wet season vehicle protection, adding 100,000-200,000 VND ($4-8) daily

Carry small bills (20,000-50,000 VND notes) for street food vendors who often lack change during busy pre-rain lunch rushes

Download Grab app and register payment method before arrival - taxi demand spikes 300% during afternoon thunderstorms, causing 20-30 minute delays

Schedule indoor activities (museums, shopping, spa treatments) for 2-5 PM window when 60% of April thunderstorms occur - outdoor plans should focus on early morning and evening