If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through lantern-lit streets, sipping coffee by the river, and basking in Vietnam’s cultural beauty, then Hoi An is probably already on your bucket list. But what if your travel calendar only opens up for September? Is it a good idea to pack your bags and head off to this picturesque town during that time?
Let’s dive in and get real about visiting Hoi An in September — rain, shine, and everything in between.
So… Is September a Good Time to Visit Hoi An?
Lanterns and souvenirs in Hoi An in September
Alright, let’s cut to the chase: September isn’t the superstar month for visiting Hoi An. If you’re looking for endless sunshine and perfect weather, this might not be your best bet. But hang on! That doesn’t mean it’s all bad news.
September marks the beginning of the rainy season in central Vietnam, and in Hoi An specifically, that means a fair share of gray skies and afternoon showers. But don’t let that scare you away just yet!
If you’re game for a little spontaneity — and don’t mind dodging the occasional raindrop — September has its perks. Think cooler temperatures, more affordable hotel rates, and fewer crowds. On good days (and yes, they do happen), you can enjoy Hoi An almost all to yourself.
👉 Pro tip: Pick up one of those cheap plastic ponchos from the convenience stores. They’re lifesavers and come in surprisingly stylish colors (if you squint).
What’s the Weather Like in Hoi An in September?
Scenic view from An Hoi Island, Hoi An
Alright, here’s where we get a little nerdy — weather stats incoming.
September usually clocks in with temperatures hovering around 31°C (88°F) during the day and cooling off to about 25°C (76°F) at night. Not too shabby, especially when compared to the sticky heat of July and August.
But here’s the catch: September sees a sharp rise in rainfall. We’re talking around 16 rainy days and a total of about 283 mm of precipitation. All this means it’s not unheard of to have sunshine in the morning and a downpour by afternoon.
And honestly? There’s something kind of magical about watching the rain fall while you’re cozied up in a riverside café, sipping a strong Vietnamese coffee.
How Does It Compare to Other Months?
Here’s a quick look at how September stacks up compared to the rest of the year:
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 25°C (76°F) | 20°C (67°F) | 4 |
| Mar | 28°C (83°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 2 |
| May | 33°C (91°F) | 25°C (78°F) | 7 |
| Jul | 34°C (93°F) | 26°C (79°F) | 7 |
| Aug | 33°C (92°F) | 26°C (78°F) | 11 |
| Sept | 31°C (88°F) | 25°C (76°F) | 16 |
| Oct | 29°C (84°F) | 24°C (74°F) | 19 |
☔ TL;DR: Expect more rain, slightly cooler temps, and bring a backup plan for your beach day.
How Crowded Is Hoi An in September?
Good news! If you’re crowd-averse and love quiet moments of exploration, September could be your sweet spot.
Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so yes, it gets its fair share of tourism. But with the weather being less predictable, September naturally sees a dip in visitor numbers.
During the heat of the day — especially from late morning to early afternoon — town feels almost empty. That’s your cue to roam freely, take photos without a crowd in the background, and grab a prime seat at your favorite café.
The evenings, particularly after 3 PM when the Old Town is closed to motor vehicles, can still get lively. Lanterns begin to glow, shops open their doors wide, and the streets take on that magical vibe Hoi An is famous for.
Are There Any Festivals in September?
You won’t find massive celebrations or big-name festivals in Hoi An during September. But you might just catch the monthly Lantern Festival.
Wait, what’s that?
🎉 The Lantern Festival happens every month on the 14th day of the lunar calendar (not the Gregorian one, so check your moon phase apps!). Expect electricity-free streets, glowing lanterns galore, and a laid-back but charming atmosphere.
It’s not a wild street party. Think of it more like a gentle pause — locals and visitors quietly enjoying the beauty of thousands of lanterns reflected on the river. It’s serene, photogenic, and honestly, kind of magical.
Final Thoughts: Should You Go?
Let’s recap the September vibe:
✅ Pros:
- Fewer tourists
- Cheaper accommodation
- Cooler temperatures
- Possible sunny spells
- Cozy rain-day café vibes
❌ Cons:
- Unpredictable rain
- Some tours or boats may be limited
- Not the “picture-perfect” season
If your calendar lines up with September and you’re okay with a little uncertainty, Hoi An can still be a fantastic trip. Just pack smart, stay flexible, and embrace the adventure.
And remember — sometimes the best travel stories come from places that don’t go exactly as planned.
Handy Links & Travel Tips
- 🌧️ Where to Stay: Best areas in Hoi An
- ☕ Must-Visit Café: 11 Ca Phe on An Hoi Island
- 🚲 Getting Around: Ultimate Hoi An transport guide
- 🧭 Complete Itinerary: 3 perfect days in Hoi An
Still undecided? Think of Hoi An in September as a roll of the dice — one that could lead to quiet streets, cool breezes, and one-of-a-kind memories.
Safe travels, and don’t forget your poncho! 💛🛵🇻🇳