Local Expert Guide
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
IN VIETNAM
“A clear, practical guide written from the perspective of a local expert.”
Two Calendars System
Western (Gregorian): Same as Europe/US.
Lunar Calendar: Traditional Asian calendar (dates change yearly).
Western Calendar Holidays
New Year’s Day
Jan 1st
Open
Normal / High (Dec 31)
Reunification Day
Apr 30th
Very High
+20–50%
Intl. Labor Day
May 1st
National Day
Sep 2nd
Lively & Festive
+15–40%
Lunar Calendar Holidays
TẾT • Lunar New Year
The biggest traditional holiday & family reunion
What happens?
- • Cities become quiet; countryside busy.
- • Shops/Restaurants close for 5-14 days.
- • Transport is extremely crowded pre-Tet.
📅 Upcoming Dates
Feb 15-22
Feb 3-10
Jan 23-30
!
Price Surge
-
Hotels
+30–100% -
Tour Guides
+200–300% -
Transport
+50%
Hung Kings’ Commemoration
10th day of 3rd Lunar Month
Honoring founders. Moderate crowds. Generally safe for tourists.
Mid-Autumn Festival
15th day of 8th Lunar Month
For children. Lanterns & Mooncakes. No travel disruption. Great atmosphere.
How Tourism Operates
What Usually Stays Open
- Airports & Flights
- Major Hotels & Resorts
- Famous Tourist Attractions
- Shopping Malls
What May Close (Esp. Tet)
- Small Local Restaurants
- Family-run Shops
- Local Tour Offices
- Street Food Stalls
Daily Costs Estimates
| Expense | Normal Days | Public Holidays | Tết (Peak) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Hotel | $15–30 | $20–45 | $30–60 |
| Mid-range Hotel | $50–90 | $70–130 | $100–180 |
| Meals | $5–10 | $7–15 | $10–20 |
| Tours | Normal | Limited | Very Limited |
| Taxi/Grab | Normal | +10-20% | +20-30% |
-
Avoid Tet if you are on a tight budget. -
Book early for April 30, May 1, Sept 2. -
Carry cash during Tet (ATMs busy).
Best time for smooth travel:
November to April