1. Why should you experience Thanh Hoa tourism during Tet 2026?
Experience of traveling to Thanh Hoa during Tet 2026 shows that a trip at the beginning of spring in Thanh Hoa brings a very different feeling compared to trips during the year. Not just simple rest, this is also a journey combining relaxation, exploration, and experiencing the traditional Tet atmosphere in a bustling, fresh atmosphere.
According to the experience of many tourists, Thanh Hoa possesses a rare and diverse tourism ecosystem: from Sam Son, Hai Tien beaches; Pu Luong ecological area, Cam Luong fish stream; to famous cultural – spiritual sites such as Ba Trieu Temple, Lam Kinh, Phu Na. During Tet, these places are both peaceful and carry the very characteristic early year festival colors of Thanh Hoa.
Pù Luông Ecological Area - a tourist destination in Thanh Hóa to visit this spring. (Source: Collected)
One point shared by many in Thanh Hóa travel experience during Tết is that the weather is usually cool, with little rain, and pleasant temperatures. This is very conducive to spring travel, sightseeing, and photography. In addition, Tết also features many traditional festivals, cultural programs, and New Year's Eve events, creating a vibrant atmosphere but not as crowded as the peak summer season. Furthermore, according to practical experience, during Tết 2026, many hotels, resorts, and tours in Thanh Hóa often have early-year promotions. Thus, Thanh Hóa becomes a suitable choice for multi-generational families, groups of friends, or couples who want to travel in the early spring while optimizing costs.
2. Ideal time and climate notes for traveling to Thanh Hóa during Tết
2.1. Weather characteristics of Thanh Hóa during Tết
One of the important Thanh Hóa travel experience during Tết tips is to understand the weather characteristics of each region. Generally, the weather in Thanh Hóa during this period is quite pleasant, not too cold like the northern mountainous provinces, nor is it sultry like summer. The Lunar New Year usually falls in the dry season, with stable weather and little heavy rain. According to experience traveling to Thanh Hóa during Tết, the average temperature ranges from about 14–22°C, with mild sunshine during the day and fresh air, very suitable for spring travel, sightseeing, and photography.
In coastal areas like Sầm Sơn and Hải Tiến, according to practical experience, the sea is quite calm at this time, with small waves and not too strong winds. Although not ideal for swimming, it is very suitable for relaxation, walking along the beach, taking photos, and enjoying the early-year sea atmosphere.
Sam Son Beach - Thanh Hoa is the most famous that any local resident would know. (Source: Collected)
Meanwhile, highland destinations like Pu Luong, Dong Quan Waterfall have significantly lower temperatures, especially at night and early morning. The chilly feeling, sometimes dropping below 14°C, brings a very "satisfying" experience for those who enjoy the quiet mountain and forest atmosphere in early spring, but also requires adequate warm clothing preparation.
2.2. Notes on regional weather forecasts
Although the Tet weather in Thanh Hoa is generally quite beautiful, you should still follow the forecast close to your departure date, especially if you plan to visit mountainous areas or travel to multiple locations. The most official and reliable source of information is the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.
3. Outstanding destinations when traveling to Thanh Hoa during Tet 2026
3.1. Pu Luong - The "Festival Village" attracting tourists during Tet
Speaking of Thanh Hoa Tet travel experience, Pu Luong is always a favored choice for many young travelers and nature-loving families. According to practical experience, at the beginning of the year, Pu Luong dons a very distinctive beauty with terraced fields interspersed with villages, mist lingering in the early morning, and the vibrant festival atmosphere of the Thai and Muong ethnic groups.
Based on the Tet travel experience in Thanh Hoa of many people, when you come to Pu Luong, you can enjoy light forest trekking, participate in local festivals, watch bamboo dances, and enjoy traditional cuisine such as sticky rice in bamboo tubes, Co Lung duck, and wild bamboo shoots. The most beautiful time of day is early morning, when the mist is still light, making it ideal for cloud hunting and watching the villages wake up.
Pu Luong - a festival season village that attracts many visitors every Tet holiday season. (Source: Collected)
Practical experience: It is advisable to depart early from Thanh Hoa province center or Hanoi to avoid thick fog. Prioritize homestays in Don village, Kho Moi village - beautiful location, easy to move around. Entrance tickets to Pu Luong Nature Reserve are currently free, homestay prices during Tet range from about 500,000-800,000 VND/night, depending on room type and services.
3.2. Sam Son, Hai Tien Beaches - Relaxation, fireworks countdown
If you don't like traveling much and want to enjoy Tet in a relaxed way, according to the Tet holiday travel experience in Thanh Hoa, Sam Son and Hai Tien beaches are very worthwhile options. During Tet, the beaches are quite empty, not noisy, extremely ideal for relaxation, walking along the beach, and early spring check-ins. In recent years, Sam Son often organizes art programs, countdowns, and fireworks displays on New Year's Eve, attracting a large number of tourists and local residents. Lam Son Square area is the most popular check-in spot during this time.
Sam Son Beach is one of the most attractive destinations for a large number of visitors. (Source: Collected)
When choosing accommodation services in the Thanh Hoa travel experience during Tet, visitors should prioritize resort package deals at large-scale resorts such as FLC Sam Son, Paracel Resort… thanks to the synchronized utility system from accommodation, dining to entertainment, especially suitable for families or large groups. During Tet, package prices usually range from VND 1,000,000 – 2,500,000/night, depending on the room category and booking time, so booking early will help you proactively choose a suitable resort space and get a better price.
3.3. Ham Rong - Historical and spiritual site at the beginning of the year
The Ham Rong relic area has long been a familiar destination for many families in the Thanh Hoa travel experience during Tet, thanks to its space that is rich in historical significance, harmoniously combining spiritual elements and natural landscapes. Located on the banks of the Ma River, the Ham Rong historical and cultural relic area is associated with many important milestones, and is an ideal place for visitors to find peace in the early days of the new year. When visiting, tourists can combine visiting Ham Rong mountain, Ham Rong bridge - a familiar symbol of Thanh Hoa, visiting Mat Rong pagoda or Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery to pray for peace, health, and safety for their families.
Ham Rong Cultural and Historical Relic Site on the bank of the Ma River. (Source: Collected)
From the high points within the relic site, the winding scenery of the Ma River unfolds expansively and openly, bringing a feeling of relaxation and peace of mind, very suitable for a short day trip with loved ones. However, due to the terrain of the area having quite a lot of stone steps and sloping paths, visitors should prepare sports shoes or soft-soled shoes for more convenient movement, especially when traveling with the elderly or young children, to ensure the spring trip is complete and safe.
3.4. Mao Xa Pagoda - A serene space on Tet holiday
Mao Xa Pagoda is one of the spiritual destinations with the characteristic tranquility of Thanh Hoa region, chosen by many tourists who want to find a quiet space at the beginning of the year. The pagoda possesses a traditional, rustic yet harmonious communal house architecture, located separately from densely populated areas, so the atmosphere is always airy and gentle. It is this simplicity and tranquility that creates a unique charm for Mao Xa Pagoda, especially for those who do not like the hustle and bustle during Tet holidays.
Mao Xa Pagoda - a touch of peace amidst the Thanh region. (Source: Collected)
Visiting Mao Xa Pagoda, visitors often spend time offering incense for peace, enjoying tea at the beginning of spring, and slowly feeling the rhythm of life passing by in a tranquil space. Without crowded or noisy scenes, this place brings a sense of serenity, helping the mind relax and become more balanced after a busy year. With its quiet atmosphere and gentle pace of visiting, Mao Xa Pagoda is especially suitable for middle-aged people, the elderly, or those who want to "escape" the vibrant Tet atmosphere to find peace in the early days of the year.
3.5. Dong Quan Waterfall and local festivals at the beginning of the year
For tourists who love exploring nature combined with local culture, Dong Quan Waterfall along with traditional festivals in the Trieu Son, Ba Thuoc areas offer a quite novel experience in Thanh Hoa travel tips for Tet 2026. The journey to the waterfall often combines light trekking through forest paths, enough for tourists to exercise and relax and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and forests at the beginning of spring. Upon arrival, the scene of the waterfall cascading amidst the lush green space creates a "healing" feeling, very suitable for taking photos, resting, and regenerating energy after a busy year. If visiting during the full moon of the first lunar month, visitors also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in village festivals such as the Thanh Hoang ceremony or traditional rituals with strong local identity, along with simple but culturally rich folk games.
Dong Quan Waterfall - an "ideal healing destination" at the beginning of the year. (Source: Collected)
However, due to the terrain being mainly mountainous paths and natural trails, visitors should prioritize traveling in groups rather than alone to ensure safety. Choosing suitable sports shoes, monitoring the weather, and being cautious when moving on days with fog or light drizzle are essential for a smooth trip. With a harmonious combination of nature, culture, and local life, Dong Quan Waterfall is an ideal destination for those who want to find a different, gentle, yet memorable spring travel experience at the beginning of the year.
4. Suggested Thanh Hoa travel itinerary for Tet 2026 from 1-2 days
4.1. 1-day itinerary (depart morning - return evening)
In the morning, visitors depart early to make the most of their exploration time. If you love nature and light exercise, the itinerary can take you to Pu Luong for relaxing trekking, to admire the winding terraced fields, and enjoy the fresh mountain air of early spring. If you don't want to travel too far, visitors can choose a gentler option such as visiting the Ham Rong historical site, walking to admire the scenery of the Ma River, and visiting a pagoda to pray for peace and health for the new year in a serene atmosphere.
At noon, the group will have a meal with local specialties that carry the strong flavor of Thanh Hoa during Tet, such as sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes, grilled meat, free-range chicken – simple yet rich and enjoyable dishes. After lunch, in the afternoon, continue the journey to Sam Son beach, stroll along the beach, take check-in photos at the beach square, and spend time resting and relaxing. Visitors can enjoy afternoon tea at beachfront hotels or resorts, enjoying the gentle sea breeze in the early days of the year.
An ideal itinerary for a day trip, harmoniously combining nature, the sea, and the Tet event atmosphere. (Source: Collected)
In the evening, if organized by the locality, visitors can participate in countdown programs, watch art performances or fireworks in the Lam Son area, immersing themselves in the bustling festive atmosphere. At the end of the program, the group returns on the same day, concluding the spring travel journey combining nature, culture, and relaxation in a complete way.
4.2. 2-day 1-night itinerary
4.2.1. Day 1: Thanh Hoa Province Center - Ham Rong - Mao Xa Pagoda
In the morning, visitors begin their journey by visiting the Ham Rong relic site, hiking the mountain, admiring Ham Rong Bridge, and visiting Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery to pray for peace and good fortune for the new year. The space combining history, spirituality, and river-mountain scenery brings a sense of relaxation and lightness from the beginning of the trip. At noon, visitors move back to Thanh Hoa provincial center to enjoy local specialty dishes, rest, and recharge.
Ham Rong Bridge Thanh Hoa - a tourist highlight of the Thanh region. (Source: Collected)
In the afternoon, according to the Thanh Hoa travel experience during Tet of many tourists, the journey should continue at Mao Xa Pagoda – a pagoda with a serene and peaceful space, very suitable for meditation amidst the bustling Tet atmosphere. At the end of the day's tour, visitors can choose to stay overnight in the Thanh Hoa provincial center or move to Sam Son or Hai Tien for accommodation, convenient for the next day's sightseeing and relaxation plans.
4.2.2. Day 2: Trekking Pu Luong or Dong Quan Waterfall - Sam Son/Hai Tien.
In the morning, visitors depart early for Pu Luong to begin a gentle trekking journey amidst the early spring mountain and forest landscape. Here, visitors can go cloud hunting in the early morning, admire the terraced fields interspersed with peaceful villages, and learn about the local people's way of life. The fresh, cool air and lush green natural scenery make the trip relaxing and rich in experience. If you don't want to travel too far or prefer a shorter itinerary, you can flexibly substitute by visiting Dong Quan Waterfall – a closer natural destination, suitable for light walking, taking photos, and enjoying a "healing" feeling amidst the Thanh region's mountains and forests.
At noon, visitors have lunch right at the sightseeing area with simple local dishes that are rich in highland flavors, and take a short rest before continuing the journey. In the afternoon, the group moves to Sam Son or Hai Tien beach for relaxation, strolling along the beach, and enjoying the open space of the sea at the beginning of the year. This is also a suitable time for visitors to buy local specialties as gifts for relatives and friends.
The water music show takes place vibrantly at Sam Son beach square. (Source: Collected)
Before departing for Hanoi, visitors can stop by Sam Son Beach Square – a new attraction, spacious and modern, suitable for a relaxing stroll and check-in. At certain times of the day, this area also features water music activities combined with lights, creating a lively highlight for the journey.
5. Must-try: Special Thanh Hoa cuisine during Tet
5.1. Outstanding dishes to experience
According to Thanh Hoa travel experience during Tet, com lam and grilled pork are considered the "national combo" when visiting mountainous areas like Pu Luong or Ba Thuoc, especially during Tet when the weather is cool. Com lam is cooked in fresh bamboo tubes, with fragrant sticky rice grains, carrying a unique flavor of the mountains and forests. When eating, com lam is usually peeled from its outer bamboo layer, dipped in sesame salt, or eaten with local grilled pork over charcoal. The pork is simply but richly marinated, grilled to perfection to retain its tenderness and natural sweetness, dipped in mac khen salt or cham cheo to further highlight the characteristic flavors of highland cuisine. The rustic yet full-bodied flavor of this dish makes many tourists remember it fondly, especially when enjoyed in the peaceful Tet atmosphere amidst the Thanh land's mountains and forests.
Image of delicious grilled sticky rice. (Source: Collection)
Dam Set Snakehead Fish is a dish that carries the strong flavor of the Thanh Hoa delta region, closely associated with the traditional culinary life of the local people. The snakehead fish is caught from natural ponds, meticulously cleaned, and then processed into many familiar dishes such as deep-frying or braising with turmeric. The fish meat is firm, with few small bones, and has a natural sweetness. When deep-fried, it has a crispy skin, while when braised with turmeric, it releases a fragrant aroma and has an eye-catching yellow color. During Tet, many families in Thanh Hoa still maintain the habit of treating guests with Dam Set Snakehead Fish as a way to convey wishes for a new year full of abundance, warmth, and togetherness. The simplicity yet rich flavor of this dish makes visitors who have the opportunity to taste it easily feel the rustic and authentic characteristics of Thanh Hoa's culinary culture.
Dam Set Perch has firm, sweet, and nutritious meat. (Source: Collected)
When mentioning must-try specialties in Thanh Hoa travel experiences during Tet, Thanh Hoa nem chua has almost become the "culinary brand" of the Thanh Hoa region. The nem is made from fresh pork, thinly sliced pork skin, mixed with moderate spices, then tightly wrapped in banana leaves for natural fermentation, creating a characteristic mild sourness, crispiness, and aroma. During Tet, nem chua is usually wrapped more carefully and ingredients are selected more meticulously. The fermentation level is moderate, making it very easy to eat, suitable for sipping with beer or light wine during early year gatherings. Thanks to its distinctive flavor and neat appearance, Thanh Hoa nem chua is also a Tet gift that many tourists choose when visiting this land.
Certainly, with the crispy texture of pork skin, the aroma of meat, and the spiciness of chili and garlic, the recipient will be "hooked" on this gift. (Source: Collected)
The early spring rural markets in Thanh Hoa always carry a bustling atmosphere and rich traditional colors, likened to a "specialty paradise" for tourists wanting to buy gifts to take home after their trip. Visiting the market in the early days of the year, you can easily see stalls selling fragrant, chewy Banh Gai Tu Tru, with its glossy black crust made from gai leaves and a rich green bean filling, highly favored as a gift. Besides, fermented fish sauce, with its rich flavor, often used to dip boiled vegetables or boiled meat in Tet holiday meals, is also a specialty closely associated with the culinary life of the people in the Thanh region. Thanh Hoa fermented pork roll is a more convenient choice for travelers going far because it is easy to preserve, has a unique flavor, and suits many palates. Most of these specialties are still produced using traditional methods, appearing commonly during holidays and Tet, contributing to the unique culinary culture of Thanh Hoa each spring.
5.2. Reliable dining spots / market days
To enjoy the authentic characteristic flavors and buy specialties according to the Thanh Hoa Tet travel experience, true to the Thanh region, tourists should prioritize choosing reputable addresses that have been operating for a long time and are trusted by locals. In the Pu Luong area, Hoa Mai restaurant is a familiar stop for many tourists, specializing in serving mountain specialties such as sticky rice in bamboo tubes, mountain pig, hill chicken, using local ingredients and processed in a simple, easy-to-eat way, especially suitable for those visiting Pu Luong for the first time. In the center of Thanh Hoa province, Da Lan restaurant is a familiar address for locals, famous for its traditional Thanh dishes, with a spacious area, suitable for family meals or large group gatherings during Tet.
Besides dining at restaurants, tourists can also buy specialties as gifts at Sam Son market, where it is easy to find items such as dried seafood, fermented pork roll, specialty fish sauce at relatively stable prices. If a safer option is needed, especially for Tet gifts to take far away, local specialty supermarkets in the center of Thanh Hoa province are suitable suggestions due to products with clear packaging and labels, convenient for preservation and transportation.
6. Safety notes, useful tips, and estimated costs when traveling to Thanh Hoa during Tet
6.1. Safety notes when visiting and experiencing
To ensure the Thanh Hoa Tet travel experience is within plan, tourists should proactively book transportation, hotels, or tours early, ideally around October-November, especially if planning to visit Pu Luong or stay in Sam Son during New Year's Eve. Booking early helps in easily choosing suitable accommodation, avoiding "sold out" situations, and getting better prices. Additionally, it is advisable to monitor the weather forecast 3–5 days in advance through official channels to adjust the itinerary, and prepare warm clothes and scarves when traveling to high areas like Pu Luong, Dong Quan waterfall in the early morning or evening.
For families with young children or the elderly, opting for all-inclusive Tet tours is a safer and more convenient choice. These tours typically include transportation, itinerary, meals, and a tour guide, helping to limit unexpected issues and providing peace of mind during the peak tourist season.
Pu Luong - a green destination in Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collected)
6.2. Tips for saving costs and enjoying fully
Regarding costs, the general price level according to Thanh Hoa travel experience during Tet usually increases slightly by about 20–30% compared to normal days but is still considered quite “pleasant” compared to many other famous destinations. Popular 1–2 day intra-provincial tours range from 1,200,000–2,000,000 VND/person, suitable for the peak travel demand at the beginning of the year. To optimize the budget, visitors should prioritize all-inclusive packages including food, accommodation, and transportation from large resorts or reputable travel agencies to save costs and enjoy additional service benefits.
With self-guided travel, costs can be more flexible and economical if suitable services are chosen. Staying at Pu Luong homestays, eating at local eateries or rural markets instead of tourist restaurants not only helps reduce the budget but also brings a closer, more authentic experience of Thanh Hoa's local life and culture at the beginning of the year.
6.3. Things to do and not to do during Tet
According to Thanh Hoa travel experience during Tet, visitors should pay special attention to respecting local culture and customs, especially when visiting pagodas, participating in traditional festivals, or visiting ethnic villages. At spiritual sites at the beginning of the year, maintaining a polite attitude, speaking softly, and behaving appropriately not only shows respect but also makes the trip more meaningful. Visitors should also prepare light, modest clothing, prioritize comfortable sports shoes for easy movement, and bring scarves and warm clothes when going to the highlands to suit the weather conditions.
Besides, some things to avoid should also be noted to ensure a complete experience. Visitors should not check-in at prohibited areas or sacred spaces that require solemnity, and should also maintain general hygiene, not litter or make excessive noise at attractions, especially pagodas and villages. Limiting travel on mountain roads at night if unfamiliar with the terrain is also an important factor to ensure safety for the trip at the beginning of the year.
Ban Don stands out with its long terraced fields. (Source: Collected)
From peaceful Pu Luong, sacred Ham Rong, relaxing Sam Son beach, to local festivals and traditional cuisine, the Thanh Hoa travel experience for Tet 2026 offers a journey full of nature - culture - people. Not too noisy, not too expensive, Thanh Hoa is an ideal choice for those who want to start the new year with a gentle yet rich experience trip. Just prepare well, choose a suitable itinerary, and save the above experiences, you can fully enjoy a complete and memorable Tet holiday.
