Vietnam in December: Weather, Tips and More!

The weather in Vietnam in December is comfortable across the country, with balmy temperatures and bearable humidity. Southern Vietnam experiences an average daytime temperature of 31°C (88°F) and an average nighttime temperature of 23°C (73°F), with minimum to no rainfall. Central Vietnam is transitioning from its wet season to dry season, so the average daytime temperature is at a balmy 23°C (73°F), and the average nighttime temperature at 19°C (66°F), accompanied by light drizzles totaling 199 millimeters. Northern Vietnam, meanwhile, witnesses autumn during the first half of December, followed by the onset of winter in the latter half. The average temperatures in the region range from 15°C (59°F) to 22°C (72°F).

For a detailed seasonal overview, read our article on the best time to visit Vietnam.

December sets the ideal stage for exploring the sights and culture around Vietnam. Below are some solid reasons to plan a trip to Vietnam in December.

• Ideal weather for sightseeing: December's pleasant weather makes it an excellent time for outdoor sightseeing throughout Vietnam. In the North, explore the charming streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, marvel at the stunning vistas of Ha Long Bay, and trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa. In Central Vietnam, wander the ancient streets of Hoi An, a Unesco World Heritage Site, and visit indoor attractions like the Imperial City of Hue and the Cham Museum in Da Nang. Down South, discover the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta without oppressive humidity and stroll the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Beach time: December is the perfect time to soak up the sun and indulge in the beaches of Southern and Central Vietnam. This is one of the prime months for snorkeling around the Phu Quoc and Con Dao islands of the south. Popular beach activities include swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing. You can also head to Central Vietnam's Nha Trang and Mui Ne for a pleasant beach experience but be prepared for occasional rain showers. Up north, Ha Long Bay's beaches remain relatively warm in early December before winter sets in.

• Festive season: During Christmas (Giang Sinh) in Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can witness the unique sight of "Ong gia Noel," Vietnamese Santa Clauses spreading joy on their scooters. They can also attend midnight mass at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. The Lunar New Year (Tet Holiday) is another important festival held in December, featuring lion dances, family gatherings, and exchanging lucky money envelopes. Other notable events include the Sunlit New Year's Eve Festival and the Epizode Music Festival in Phu Quoc.

There are many places to visit and things to do in Vietnam in December, as it is one of the peak tourist months.

If you are taking a trip to Hanoi around Christmas, visit the Hang Ma Street markets adorned with holiday lights and decorations. On New Year’s Eve, head to the capital’s Old Quarter, where thousands gather for the countdown and fireworks. Down south in Ho Chi Minh City, experience the city's countdown parties, fireworks displays, and special events to ring in the new year.

Head to Phu Long, Mu Cang Chai, or Sapa Valley in early December to catch the last of the stunning golden rice fields brought by the harvest season in autumn. December's cool, dry weather in the northern region makes it an ideal time for multi-day treks through the lush valleys, villages, and mountains around Sapa.

Visit beaches like Sam Son Beach in Central Vietnam, where the dry season has not yet started, so you can still enjoy popular beach activities such as swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also rent a moped or a scooter in Hue to wander around town on a day trip and visit popular landmarks such as the Thien Mu Pagoda and Dong Ba Market.

Traveling to Vietnam in December is an ideal choice for those who want to skip extreme humidity and still enjoy all the country offers. For optimal weather conditions, start your trip north and proceed south, concluding your holiday in central Vietnam.

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Vietnam in November
Vietnam in January