Vietnam Tet Holiday 2025. All you need to know for tourists

November 29, 2024 at 11:27 PM GMT+7

Tet is the biggest and most significant holiday in Vietnam, and it comes with unique customs, cultural events, and potential travel challenges. This post may help you to gain more insight to prepare for your trip.

1. Dates of Tet Holiday 2025

Vietnam government has approved the plan to off for Tet Holiday (Lunar New Year) in 2025, accordingly, the country is having 9 day-off for Tet holiday, starting from Jan 25 to Feb 2, 2025 with the main festivities typically taking place on January 29–30
However, the pre-Tet preparations begin well in advance, so expect the festive atmosphere to start building up even before the official holiday begins.

2. What to Expect During Tet

Tet holiday is like a massive shutdown across the country, especially the first 3 days of the Lunar New Year, from January 29-30, 2025.

Closed Businesses: Many businesses, restaurants, shops, and even some tourist attractions will be closed or have limited hours during the first few days of Tet (January 29–30). However, major tourist destinations will likely remain open, but you may encounter fewer crowds, as locals usually return to their hometowns to celebrate with family.

Even the public services such as Vietnam Immigration will be closed during Tet, so if you need a visa for Vietnam, please apply well in advance. Normal processing time takes 3 working days so you are better to apply before Jan 21, 2025. Otherwise you would find yourself in need of an urgent visa.

Travel Challenges: Since Tet is a busy travel period, expect overcrowded transportation options (trains, buses, flights) leading up to and during the holiday. Book flights and train tickets as early as possible, preferably 2–3 months ahead, to secure your seats and get better prices.
Traffic Congestion: Especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, traffic can be heavy as people travel to visit family, go shopping, or attend Tet celebrations. Expect some delays, so plan your activities accordingly.

3. Accommodations During Tet

Book Early: Hotels and resorts, particularly in popular destinations, can get fully booked quickly, as many locals travel to visit their families and may also host family gatherings at hotels.
Tet-Themed Stays: Many hotels decorate their lobbies and dining areas with Tet decorations, offering special Tet menus with traditional foods.

4. Transportation During Tet

Flights: Book flights well in advance, as domestic flights tend to sell out quickly and the price is double/triple before and during Tet. Airport services may also be limited in some areas.
Trains and Buses: If you’re traveling by train or bus, expect crowds, and delays. Consider booking in advance and arriving early at stations to ensure you get a spot.
Local Transportation: Be aware that public transportation and taxis may be in high demand, especially in large cities. Ride-hailing apps (like Grab) can be helpful, but expect longer waiting times.
Private Transfers: For a more comfortable experience, consider booking a private transfer, especially if you plan to visit less accessible areas.

Crowded and delayed at Tan Son Nhat airport during Tet holiday due to many people leaving city for hometown to celebrate the holiday. Photo: Bao Vy

5. Cultural Significance of Tet

Tet marks the start of the lunar new year and is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and welcoming good fortune. It is a deeply cultural and traditional holiday where people clean and decorate their homes, visit temples, and offer food and prayers to their ancestors.

It’s also a time for gifting lucky money (lucky money) to children and younger people as a symbol of good luck for the new year.

6. Tet Foods You Must Try

Tet is a time of feasts, and visitors should definitely try the following traditional dishes:

Banh Chung: square sticky rice cakes filled with mung beans and pork. These are the most iconic Tet foods.
Pickled onions: A common side dish eaten with the rice cakes.
Stir-fried dishes, often prepared with vegetables, seafood, or meat.
Cha gio
Goi cuon: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables, shrimp, and herbs.

Visiting Vietnam during Tet Holiday offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's rich culture and experience its most important festival. However, it’s essential to plan ahead, especially with applying for the visa, bookings for transportation and accommodation.

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