Looking for the best places to celebrate New Year 2026 in Vietnam? Discover vibrant cities, peaceful beaches, mountain retreats, cultural festivals, and exciting countdown events across Vietnam.

As the New Year approaches, Vietnam becomes lively and full of energy. From sparkling countdown celebrations in major cities to peaceful nature escapes in the mountains and along the coast, Vietnam offers something for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re planning a romantic holiday, a family trip, or a getaway with friends, these destinations will help you welcome New Year 2026 with joy, relaxation, and memorable experiences.

1. The Meaning of New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of a new calendar year and symbolizes a fresh start, new opportunities, and personal reflection. In Vietnam, while the Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán) is the most important holiday, Tết Dương Lịch is also widely observed, especially in cities and tourist destinations, with countdown events, fireworks, and family gatherings. For 2026, New Year’s Day falls on Thursday, January 1, and is a one-day public holiday, giving people a chance to relax, travel, and welcome the new year with positivity before returning to work and school on January 2.

2. Where to Go for New Year’s Holiday?

Where to go for New Year’s 2025 is a question on many travelers’ minds. If you haven’t yet found an interesting destination, check out the list of super exciting places below. These spots promise both fun and meaningful experiences to kick off the new year.

2.1 Hanoi - Culture, Street Vibes & Fireworks Show

📍 Northern Vietnam

You are wondering where to spend New Year’s alone, Hanoi is a perfect destination. During the holiday, the capital city becomes vibrant with festive decorations, local performances, and countdown celebrations around Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and West Lake. The streets are beautifully decorated, offering countless photo opportunities, while still maintaining the city’s nostalgic and ancient charm – ideal for solo travelers. Moreover, the weather in Hanoi at this time is quite pleasant, slightly cool and refreshing, making it perfect for strolling and exploring the city.

2.2 New Year Travel in Sapa

📍 Northern Vietnam

If you love freedom and are unsure where to go for a New Year adventure, Sapa is an excellent choice. This famous Northern Vietnam destination is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its rolling mountains, majestic landscapes, and refreshing weather, you’re sure to feel completely satisfied and happy exploring Sapa at the start of the year.

The Northwest highlands offer countless magnificent scenery for visitors to discover. You can conquer the winding mountain passes of O Quy Ho, visit charming villages such as Cat Cat, Ta Van, Lao Chai, and Y Linh Ho, and immerse yourself in the cool, crisp air. Don’t forget to warm up with hot local specialties like sturgeon and salmon hotpots, perfect for the chilly weather.

2.3 Da Nang - Fireworks by the Sea & Relaxed Beach Vibes

📍 Central Vietnam

If you’re still unsure where to go for the New Year holiday, you can consider traveling to Da Nang. The weather there during this period is usually very pleasant, ranging from 25 to 30°C. Located in the South Central Coast region, Da Nang is known as one of the most livable cities in Vietnam, where the beauty of the sea, mountains, and rivers blends perfectly with a modern, dynamic, and colorful urban life. That’s why Da Nang has always been a popular travel destination.

When visiting, you’ll never feel bored or wonder where to go for New Year 2025, as there are countless beautiful and exciting spots to explore, such as the Han River Bridge, My Khe Beach, Dragon Bridge, Cham Islands, Son Tra Peninsula, and the Da Nang Love Bridge. Don’t forget to also experience the vibrant and diverse culinary scene in this bustling city.

2.4 Hoi An – Lantern Nights & Peaceful Ancient Charm

📍 Quang Nam Province (35 mins from Da Nang)

The ancient town of Hoi An is a must-visit destination for New Year 2025. With its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, the beauty of this former imperial town captivates many travelers. Strolling along the poetic Hoai River, exploring long-established traditional craft villages, and learning about Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage are truly special experiences. When visiting Hoi An, don’t forget to indulge in its unique culinary delights, such as cao lau, mi Quang, Hoi An chicken rice, and various local desserts.

A highlight of Hoi An is VinWonders Nam Hoi An, an impressive cultural destination where East meets West. Here, you can explore Vietnamese cultural values through activities such as making traditional paper (do paper), silk spinning, weaving, and pottery. You can also challenge yourself with thrilling rides or cool off at the refreshing water park.

2.5 New Year Travel 2026 in Hue

📍 Central Vietnam

Traveling to Hue during New Year 2026 allows you to enjoy the city’s nostalgic and poetic charm, from the century-old Trang Tien Bridge to the dreamy, lush Thien An Hill. In this Central Vietnam destination, you can explore the beauty of imperial tombs and magnificent palaces that reflect ancient architectural styles. Additionally, don’t forget to savor traditional local dishes, which delight every visitor to this enchanting city. The simple and rustic charm of the local people also leaves a deep impression on travelers.

2.6 New Year Travel in Nha Trang

📍 Central Vietnam

If you’re wondering where to spend the New Year holiday in a comfortable and enjoyable way, Nha Trang is the perfect choice. This coastal city boasts majestic natural scenery, poetic island landscapes with blue waters and white sandy beaches, numerous tourist attractions, fun entertainment spots, diverse culinary experiences, and a pleasant climate. Nha Trang has become a favorite destination for both domestic and international travelers.

During New Year 2025 in Nha Trang, you and your family can freely explore a variety of exciting attractions. Some must-visit spots during the holiday include Hon Tre Island and VinWonders Nha Trang, offering unforgettable experiences for all ages.

2.7 Da Lat - Cozy Weather & Mountain Serenity

📍 Central Highlands of Vietnam

If you’re looking for a destination with cool weather, perfect for enjoying the early spring, Da Lat is the ideal choice. In fact, this romantic city is beautiful at any time of the year. Traveling to Da Lat during New Year 2025 offers a wonderful opportunity to escape the dust and noise of urban life and step into a quieter, more romantic world.

During the New Year holiday in Da Lat, visitors can not only enjoy the pleasant and romantic weather but also admire the white blooming ban flowers covering the sky and immerse themselves in the vibrant pink of peach blossom trees around Tuyen Lam Lake, Than Tho Lake, and Xuan Huong Lake. Additionally, you can check in at stunning spots like Bali Gate, Tom’s Rose Garden, and Vo Anh Hill. These locations all offer unique and beautiful views that are sure to leave you enchanted.

2.8 Where to Go for New Year in Saigon?

📍 Southern of Vietnam

Traveling to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and Southern Vietnam is an exciting choice for a New Year 2025 trip, especially if you’re wondering where to go in the south to recharge for the year ahead. The lively atmosphere and bustling streets during the early days of the year make visitors feel enthusiastic and delighted. During New Year 2025, be sure to visit Saigon Flower Market to enjoy the vibrant spring colors and take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street to immerse yourself in the lively crowd.

2.9 Phu Quoc - Sunny Beaches & Island Adventures

📍 Southern region of Vietnam

A New Year holiday tour to Phu Quoc with your family is a perfect getaway to relax and enjoy life. Phu Quoc, a beautiful island in Kien Giang Province, attracts visitors with its impressive natural scenery, peaceful and pristine landscapes, sacred historical sites, and famous local specialties. When visiting Phu Quoc, you’ll surely be captivated by unique and top-notch experiences at Phu Quoc United Center, which offers entertainment and activities suitable for all ages.

The Phu Quoc United Center is the ultimate destination for fun, entertainment, shopping, and relaxation on the island, featuring attractions such as VinWonders Phu Quoc, the largest theme park in Vietnam; Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, the country’s first semi-wildlife zoo; the “city that never sleeps,” Grand World Phu Quoc; Corona Casino Phu Quoc, the first casino open to Vietnamese players; and Vinpearl Golf Phu Quoc, a modern 18-hole golf course.

3. Travel Tips for New Year 2026 in Vietnam

-   Book hotels & transportation early - holiday season is busy
-   Bring light jackets for northern & highland destinations
-   Reserve restaurants or countdown venues in advance
-   Try local holiday specialties & cultural experiences

Vietnam is full of exciting and meaningful ways to welcome New Year 2026 - whether you prefer lively city celebrations, romantic lantern-lit evenings, fresh mountain air, or relaxing days by the sea.

Start your new year with joy, culture, and warm Vietnamese hospitality.

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