October marks the perfect season for Vietnamese travelers to embark on scenic adventures, whether exploring northern Vietnam or flying abroad to enjoy the golden autumn foliage in China, Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

Why travel in October?

Domestically, October is one of the most pleasant months to explore the northern region of Vietnam. The weather becomes cooler and more comfortable, with soft sunlight and mild temperatures replacing the heat of summer.

Internationally, October is ideal for witnessing the peak of autumn foliage across East Asia and Europe. Countries like Japan, South Korea, Taiwan (China), and European destinations welcome travelers with stunning views of changing leaves and crisp air.

By November, the weather in many areas becomes colder and drier, making travel less convenient.

Top destinations to visit in October

In northern Vietnam, this is the time for colorful landscapes: daisy season in Hanoi, buckwheat blossoms in Tuyen Quang, and golden rice fields across the northeastern and northwestern provinces. It’s also prime time for hiking and cloud-hunting in mountainous areas.

Other scenic autumn spots include Lan Ha Bay and Co To Island, both offering tranquil beauty perfect for rejuvenation and relaxation.

In the Central Highlands, Dalat and Mang Den offer peaceful retreats for nature lovers.

In southern Vietnam, October and November are ideal for vacations in Phu Quoc. Activities include swimming in crystal-clear waters, cycling, kayaking, snorkeling, and visiting pepper farms, traditional fish sauce factories, and pearl farms.

According to leading local travel agencies, mid-range Asian autumn tours priced between 10-20 million VND (approximately 410-820 USD per person) are especially popular in 2025.

Notable tours include visits to Beijing’s iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City; Jiuzhaigou Valley in China; leaf-peeping, pear and apple picking in Seoul; and Instagram-worthy strolls on Nami Island in South Korea.

For those headed to Europe, top autumn destinations for Vietnamese tourists include Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland. These tours typically last 9-12 days, priced from 65 million VND (approximately 2,665 USD) per person.

Other stunning yet more budget-friendly options dubbed "hidden autumn gems of Europe" include Budapest (Hungary), Valencia (Spain), Marseille (France), Porto (Portugal), and Sicily (Italy).

Travel tips for October

Before setting off, travelers should check the local weather at their destination to pack appropriate clothing. In northern Vietnam, late October may bring sudden cold spells, so items like scarves and jackets are recommended.

October is also peak travel season in areas like Hanoi, Tuyen Quang (especially Ha Giang), Sa Pa (Lao Cai), and Dalat (Lam Dong). Booking accommodations early is key to securing convenient and affordable lodging.

For autumn foliage tours across Asia and Europe, early reservations are essential. For independent travelers, it’s advisable to research when leaves reach their peak color in each specific region and plan accordingly.

Linh Trang