Tet 2026 in Vietnam What Is Open and Closed on 17, 18 and 19 February

Key Takeaways

• Tet 2026 starts on 17 February
• On 17 February almost everything is closed except hotels
• Restaurants and shops are closed on 17 February
• On 18 February many businesses reopen
• By 19 February Vietnam is almost fully back to normal
• Travel is possible but requires good planning

Introduction
Tet is the most important holiday in Vietnam and has a big impact on travel. If you are searching for Tet 2026, you probably want to know what will be open, what will be closed, and whether it is smart to travel during this period. This guide gives you clear and practical answers for Tet 2026, day by day.

What is Tet in Vietnam

Tet, also known as Vietnamese Lunar New Year, marks the start of the new lunar year. Families travel back to their hometowns, businesses close, and cities become quiet for a short time. For travelers, Tet can be a unique cultural experience but also a challenging period if you are not prepared.

Tet 2026 key dates

• Tet Holiday 2026 begins on 17 February
• Main celebration day: 17 February
• Gradual reopening: 18 February
• Almost normal operations: 19 February

What is closed on 17 February 2026

On 17 February 2026, you should expect a near total shutdown.

Closed on 17 February

• All restaurants
• All local shops and markets
• Shopping malls
• Tour offices
• Most transport services

Open on 17 February

• Hotels and resorts
• Hotel restaurants in some cases, mainly for guests

Important to know
Even in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, streets will be very quiet. Finding food outside your hotel will be extremely difficult.

What is open on 18 February 2026

On 18 February, life slowly starts to return.

What you can expect

• Many local restaurants reopen, but not all
• Some shops and cafés are open
• Tourist services operate in limited form
• Transport services improve

This day is much easier for travelers compared to 17 February, but flexibility is still needed.

Situation on 19 February 2026

By 19 February, Vietnam is almost fully back to normal.

• Most restaurants are open
• Shops and markets operate normally
• Tours and activities restart
• Transport runs on regular schedules

For most travelers, 19 February is the ideal date to start a smooth Vietnam itinerary after Tet.

Should you travel during Tet 2026

Traveling during Tet 2026 can be special but requires planning.

Pros

• Unique cultural atmosphere
• Decorated streets and family traditions
• Fewer tourists on main sightseeing days

Cons

• Very limited services on 17 February
• Higher hotel prices
• Less flexibility for spontaneous plans

Best advice

• Stay in a good hotel on 17 February
• Arrange meals in advance
• Start tours from 19 February

Practical travel tips for Tet 2026

• Book hotels early
• Confirm hotel dining options for 17 February
• Avoid long-distance travel on 17 February
• Plan sightseeing from 19 February onward
• Keep cash, ATMs may be limited during Tet

Conclusion
Tet 2026 will have a strong impact on travel in Vietnam, especially on 17 February when almost everything is closed except hotels. On 18 February, many places reopen, and by 19 February the country is largely back to normal. With good planning, Tet 2026 can still be an enjoyable and memorable time to visit Vietnam. Always plan key services ahead and keep your schedule flexible.

FAQ

1. When is Tet 2026 in Vietnam
   Tet 2026 starts on 17 February.
2. Is everything closed during Tet 2026
   On 17 February almost everything is closed except hotels. On 18 February many places reopen.
3. Are restaurants open during Tet 2026
   Restaurants are closed on 17 February. Many reopen on 18 February and most are open again on 19 February.
4. Can I travel in Vietnam on 17 February 2026
   Yes, but it is difficult. Hotels are open, but food and transport options are very limited.
5. Is 18 February a good travel day during Tet 2026
   Yes, services start returning, but not everything is fully operational.
6. Is Vietnam back to normal on 19 February 2026
   Almost yes. Most businesses, tours and restaurants are open again.
7. Should I avoid Vietnam during Tet 2026
   Not necessarily. You just need good planning, especially for 17 February.