Climate and region of Ho Chi Minh City
Before looking at the weather in July in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s useful to understand the overall climate of the region. The city, located in southern Vietnam, has a tropical monsoon climate, which means warm temperatures year-round and two distinct seasons: dry and rainy.
- Dry Season: December to April
- Rainy Season: May to November
Travel tip: How July weather differs across Vietnam
South Vietnam in July is in the heart of the rainy season, meaning frequent showers and high humidity. Meanwhile, central Vietnam enters its hottest and driest period, making destinations like Da Nang and Nha Trang ideal for beach trips. In northern Vietnam, summer heat dominates, often bringing storms and heavy rains, making each region’s climate noticeably different.
Weather in Ho Chi Minh City in July
July is deep into the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing frequent showers, high humidity, and warm temperatures. Daytime highs average around 31°C (88°F), while nights stay warm at 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is heavy, with an average of 290 mm (11.4 inches) spread over many days, usually in short but intense afternoon downpours. Despite the frequent rain, mornings and early afternoons often remain dry and sunny.
Compared to the dry season, July feels more humid and unpredictable, but the showers don’t last all day. The Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc also experience heavy rain, with occasional rough seas affecting boat trips. However, if you don’t mind planning around the rain, the city remains lively, and sightseeing is still very possible.
If you are looking for less rainy weather, read our guide to best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City.
Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in July?
July is not the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, as it is deep into the rainy season, bringing frequent showers and high humidity. Rainfall is heavy, especially in the afternoons, but the good news is that the showers are usually short, leaving dry periods in the mornings and evenings for exploring. While outdoor sightseeing requires some flexibility, the city remains fully active, and transportation is rarely affected by the rain.
Despite the frequent rain, Ho Chi Minh City is still a practical destination compared to beach locations, where rough seas and storms can be disruptive. There are plenty of indoor attractions, lively markets, and cultural experiences that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. If you plan your activities around the rain, it is still possible to have an enjoyable visit.
Did you know?
If Ho Chi Minh City is part of a larger Vietnam trip, in July you’ll find ideal beach weather in central Vietnam, with Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hoi An offering sunny days and warm waters. Meanwhile, in the north, the rice terraces of Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Pu Luong are lush and green, making July a great time for nature lovers.
Are you still in doubt if it is worth visiting? Read our guide about Ho Chi Minh City in the rainy season with tips, what to expect, and things to do.
Special events & festivals in July
July is part of Vietnam’s summer school holiday, which lasts from mid-June to mid-August. While there are no major public holidays or festivals, this period sees a rise in domestic tourism, as many families travel for vacations. Popular destinations like beach towns and the countryside become busier, and Ho Chi Minh City may feel slightly quieter as some families leave the city for their summer break.
While July does not host any significant Vietnamese festivals, Ho Chi Minh City remains lively with expat and international community events, such as live music performances, food festivals, and nightlife activities.
Southern Fruit Festival
The Southern Fruit Festival runs across June, July, and August, celebrating Vietnam’s agricultural diversity at Suoi Tien Theme Park, just outside Ho Chi Minh City. Farmers from different provinces gather to showcase and sell a wide variety of fruits, including durian, mangosteen, longan, and rambutan.
Visitors can taste fresh seasonal fruits, see fruit art displays, and watch cultural performances related to Vietnam’s agricultural traditions. While it is not a must-visit festival, it provides an interesting insight into Vietnam’s farming culture and offers a great opportunity to sample tropical fruits in one place.
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in July
July is in the middle of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent afternoon showers. Despite this, the city remains lively, and sightseeing is still enjoyable with some flexible planning. Mornings and early afternoons are often dry, making it the best time to visit major attractions like the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and Jade Emperor Pagoda before the rain arrives.
Since rain showers are usually short but intense, indoor activities like markets, museums, and cafés are great options for the afternoons. Exploring Binh Tay Market in Chinatown, taking a street food tour, or visiting local districts for authentic city life remains a great experience. Motorbike tours can still be done, but having a rain poncho handy is a good idea. Day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta are possible, but heavy rains might affect river-based activities, so it’s good to check conditions in advance.
For a complete list of sights, activities, and travel tips, read our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.
Destinations around Ho Chi Minh City to visit in July
Ho Chi Minh City is often just a starting point for exploring southern Vietnam, as many travelers continue to beach destinations, the Mekong Delta, or the Central Highlands. Understanding what July offers in these destinations can help determine whether Ho Chi Minh City is worth visiting this month. Below are the four most popular places to visit from the city.
Mekong Delta weather in July
July is in the middle of the rainy season in the Mekong Delta, meaning frequent afternoon showers and high humidity. However, rain does not significantly impact travel in this region, as most activities like floating market visits, boat tours, and cycling trips continue as usual.
The Mekong Delta is at its most vibrant this time of year, with lush green rice fields, high water levels, and peak fruit season. Orchards are full of tropical fruits like rambutan, longan, and durian, making it a great time to visit local farms and taste fresh produce. While rain is common, it usually comes in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of time for exploration.
Phu Quoc in July
July is not a great time to visit Phu Quoc, as it is deep in the rainy season. Expect frequent rain showers, rough seas, and strong winds, making it a poor choice for a beach holiday. Many boat trips and water activities are canceled due to rough conditions, and while there may be occasional dry periods, the weather is unpredictable.
For those specifically looking for a beach destination, central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang) is a much better option in July, as it is experiencing its dry season. If visiting Phu Quoc in July, expect a quiet island with fewer tourists, but be prepared for rain and limited activities.
Mui Ne in July
July is part of Mui Ne’s rainy season, meaning higher humidity and occasional rain showers. However, Mui Ne receives less rainfall than Phu Quoc, and many days still have dry, sunny periods, especially in the mornings.
Since the wind conditions are weaker in July, kiteboarding and windsurfing are not at their best, but Mui Ne’s sand dunes, beaches, and seafood restaurants remain enjoyable. While it’s not the ideal time for a dedicated beach holiday, Mui Ne can still be a short stop on a longer Vietnam itinerary, especially if traveling between Ho Chi Minh City and central Vietnam.
Dalat in July
Dalat remains a good alternative to beach destinations in July, as the city’s cool temperatures (16-24°C / 61-75°F) make it a refreshing escape from the heat. However, rainfall is frequent, with afternoon showers occurring most days.
Despite the rain, Dalat is still one of the best places to visit in southern Vietnam during the rainy season. The waterfalls are at their most powerful, making it an excellent time for canyoning and waterfall trekking. Unlike beach destinations, where rain can ruin a holiday, Dalat offers plenty of activities that remain enjoyable in wet weather, such as coffee farm visits, exploring local markets, and discovering colonial-era villas.
Travel tips for July in Ho Chi Minh City
These travel tips will help you prepare for visiting Ho Chi Minh City in July, ensuring a smooth and comfortable trip.
What to pack
Pack light, quick-drying clothing, a compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket, and water-resistant footwear for navigating wet streets. If you plan to use motorbike taxis, a rain poncho can also be useful.
Accommodations
While July is part of the low season for international tourism, it’s a higher season for domestic travelers, as Vietnamese school holidays begin. While Ho Chi Minh City isn’t a major domestic holiday destination, some families still visit, so some mid-range and family-friendly hotels may have increased demand. However, accommodations overall remain widely available, and prices are generally lower than in the high season.
Getting around Ho Chi Minh City
Frequent afternoon rain showers make Grab cars the best option for getting around, as they provide shelter from sudden downpours. Walking is still possible, especially in the morning, but carry an umbrella or rain jacket. The humidity can make walking uncomfortable, so plan indoor breaks at cafés or shopping malls.
Health and safety
Air Pollution – Rain continues to improve air quality, making July one of the better months in terms of pollution levels.
Heat – The combination of high humidity and heat can be draining, so drink plenty of water, avoid long exposure to the sun, and take breaks in air-conditioned places.
