Traveling to Vietnam during Tet can be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip. Streets are decorated in red and gold, families gather in traditional clothing, and cities transform visually in ways you will not see at any other time of year.
But Tet is not a normal travel period.
If you arrive without preparation, you may feel confused by closed shops, limited services, and unexpected schedule changes. If you prepare properly, however, Tet becomes a cultural highlight rather than an inconvenience.
Here is what you should prepare before Tet as a tourist.
Understand what Tet actually is
Tet, or Lunar New Year, is Vietnam’s most important holiday. It is not just one celebration day. It is a multi-day national event when families reunite, businesses close, and the rhythm of the country slows down.
Most Vietnamese people travel back to their hometowns to spend time with family. This means cities can feel quieter in residential areas but crowded in public celebration zones.
Knowing that Tet is family-focused helps set realistic expectations.
Check the exact Tet dates before booking
Tet does not follow the Western calendar. It follows the lunar calendar and usually falls between late January and mid February.
The first day of Tet is the most important. Many businesses close for at least one to three days starting from that date.
Some closures begin even earlier, especially small family-run restaurants and shops.
Before booking flights and hotels, check:
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official Tet dates
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how many days your destination typically closes
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whether your tour provider operates during Tet
Planning around these dates is essential.
Book accommodation early
Tet is one of the busiest domestic travel periods in Vietnam.
Hotels in major cities and tourist destinations fill up quickly. Prices may increase, especially in central areas where decorations are concentrated.
Book accommodation at least several weeks in advance. Confirm directly with the property that they will operate normally during Tet.
Do not assume availability at the last minute.
Confirm tours and transportation in advance
Transportation becomes complicated during Tet.
Domestic flights and long-distance buses sell out quickly as locals return home. Prices may increase significantly.
If you plan to move between cities during Tet week, book transportation well in advance.
Also confirm:
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tour operation dates
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pickup times
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cancellation policies
Some tours pause for one or two days during the holiday.
Prepare for business closures
Many small restaurants, cafés, and shops close for several days.
Large malls, international chains, and some tourist-oriented businesses usually remain open, but with limited hours.
You should:
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identify a few restaurants that confirm Tet opening
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avoid relying on small street food stalls during the first two days
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expect fewer services in residential neighborhoods
The first and second day of Tet are usually the quietest.
Bring enough cash
Cash is essential during Tet.
ATMs may still operate, but smaller shops and vendors prefer cash. Banks close for several days, and currency exchange services may be unavailable.
Withdraw enough Vietnamese dong before Tet begins. Small denominations are helpful, as change may be limited.
Having cash reduces stress during unexpected closures.
Plan food strategically
During the first days of Tet, finding food can be challenging in certain areas.
Hotels usually serve breakfast as normal, but lunch and dinner options may be limited.
Plan ahead by:
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asking your hotel for open restaurant recommendations
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visiting central districts where businesses reopen sooner
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purchasing snacks or simple supplies in advance
Food becomes easier to find after the third day.
Adjust your expectations about nightlife
Tet is not a party holiday in the Western sense.
Some nightlife areas remain open, especially in large cities like Ho Chi Minh City, but many venues close temporarily.
Instead of nightlife, expect:
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public flower streets
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fireworks displays
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family gatherings
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traditional ceremonies
Understanding this shift prevents disappointment.
Respect cultural etiquette
Tet is a time of tradition and family respect.
As a visitor, you should:
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dress modestly when visiting temples
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avoid loud behavior near residential areas
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understand that some people may prioritize family time over business
If invited to someone’s home, small gifts such as fruit or sweets are appreciated.
Being culturally aware enhances your experience.
Prepare for crowds in celebration areas
While many neighborhoods become quiet, major public spaces become crowded.
Flower streets, walking streets, and fireworks areas attract thousands of visitors.
Arrive early if you want good photos or comfortable walking space.
Early mornings are often surprisingly peaceful compared to evenings.
Know that Tet is about experience, not efficiency
Normal travel expectations do not apply during Tet.
Public services slow down. Some plans may change. Transportation can be delayed.
If you approach Tet with flexibility rather than strict scheduling, you will enjoy it more.
Tet rewards patience and curiosity.
Why Tet is still worth visiting
Despite closures and adjustments, Tet offers something unique.
You will see:
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families dressed in ao dai
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temples filled with incense
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flower markets at their most vibrant
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streets decorated in red and gold
These moments do not happen at any other time of year.
With preparation, Tet becomes a cultural privilege rather than a travel inconvenience.
Prepare your money strategy before Tet begins
Money planning is one of the most important things to prepare before Tet as a tourist.
ATMs usually continue working, but bank branches close for several days. Currency exchange counters may also shut temporarily.
Before Tet officially starts, you should:
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withdraw enough Vietnamese dong for at least three to four days
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keep small denominations for taxis, street vendors, and tips
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avoid relying only on credit cards
Some restaurants and hotels accept cards, but smaller businesses often prefer cash during the holiday.
Having enough cash reduces unnecessary stress when options are limited.
Plan your transportation carefully
Transportation becomes one of the biggest challenges during Tet.
Domestic flights and long-distance buses sell out quickly because millions of Vietnamese travel home at the same time. Ticket prices can rise sharply during peak days.
If you need to travel between cities:
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book flights or train tickets at least two to three weeks in advance
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avoid traveling on the first day of Tet if possible
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confirm departure times one day before travel
Within cities, ride-hailing apps still operate, but driver availability may be lower. Expect slightly longer waiting times.
Walking becomes easier in some areas, as traffic reduces significantly during the first days of Tet.
Pack appropriately for Tet celebrations
Tet does not require special gear, but a few adjustments help.
Bring at least one outfit suitable for festive settings. If you plan to take photos at flower streets or temples, brighter colors such as red, white, or yellow blend well with Tet decorations.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Public celebration areas require extended walking and standing.
If you plan to visit temples, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended.
For evening outings, a light layer may be useful, depending on the region and time of year.
Prepare for limited food options during the first days
The first and second day of Tet are the quietest in terms of dining.
Many small restaurants close completely so families can celebrate together. Larger hotels and some international chains remain open, but choices may be limited.
Before Tet starts:
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ask your hotel which restaurants will stay open
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save a few confirmed locations on your phone
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consider buying snacks or light groceries
After the third day, more restaurants gradually reopen.
Avoid overpacking your schedule
One of the biggest mistakes tourists make during Tet is trying to follow a tight itinerary.
Public attractions may close temporarily. Opening hours can change without much notice. Some tours pause operations for a day or two.
Instead of planning every hour, leave space for spontaneous exploration. Walking through decorated streets, visiting flower markets, and observing local life often become the most memorable moments.
Tet is best experienced slowly.
Know what not to do during Tet
Understanding local etiquette prevents uncomfortable situations.
Do not complain openly about business closures. For Vietnamese families, Tet is about reunion, not commerce.
Avoid aggressive bargaining during Tet. Prices may increase slightly due to holiday demand, and vendors are also balancing family time.
Be respectful in temples and during rituals. Tet is spiritually meaningful for many families.
Small gestures of patience and respect go a long way.
Prepare mentally for a different travel rhythm
Tet changes the pace of Vietnam.
Cities feel quieter in residential areas but busier in central celebration zones. Streets may look empty in the morning and crowded at night.
Service speed may slow slightly. Staff members working during Tet are often doing so on a holiday, and patience is appreciated.
If you prepare mentally for this shift, you will enjoy the atmosphere rather than feel inconvenienced.
Advantages of visiting during Tet
Despite the need for preparation, Tet offers unique advantages.
You will see Vietnam at its most culturally expressive. Families dress in ao dai, children carry lucky envelopes, and temples fill with incense.
Public spaces are decorated beautifully. Flower streets and markets exist only for a short time each year.
Traffic is lighter in many neighborhoods, making walking easier.
For travelers interested in culture rather than nightlife or shopping, Tet can be deeply rewarding.
Frequently asked questions about traveling during Tet
Is everything closed during Tet?
No. Many small businesses close for one to three days, but major hotels, malls, and some restaurants remain open.
Is it more expensive to travel during Tet?
Transportation and accommodation may increase in price due to domestic demand. Booking early helps reduce costs.
Is Tet a good time for first-time visitors?
Yes, if you prepare properly and understand that the country operates differently during this period.
Should I avoid traveling during Tet?
Not necessarily. If you value cultural experiences and flexibility, Tet can be one of the most interesting times to visit.
Final thoughts on preparing before Tet
What you should prepare before Tet as a tourist is not complicated, but it requires awareness.
Book early. Bring enough cash. Confirm transportation. Adjust expectations. Be patient and respectful.
If you prepare in advance, Tet becomes one of the most visually rich and culturally meaningful experiences in Vietnam.
Instead of seeing closures as inconvenience, you begin to see them as part of the celebration.
And that shift in perspective changes everything.
