How's the Vietnam Weather in December?
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How's the Vietnam Weather in December?

Vietnam weather in December marks the coldest period of the year, with average temperatures around 17ºC in the north and Hanoi and the warmer days in the south. Although rainfall is minimal across most regions, the northern monsoon brings increased humidity, which in turn lowers temperatures throughout the country. Moreover, this seasonal shift creates a noticeable contrast between the cool, misty north and the warmer southern regions.

The weather in Vietnam in December

December in Vietnam has a specific allure. The north experiences crisp air, the south has beautiful skies, and the cities start to glow with a festive atmosphere as the nation moves further into its dry season. However, Vietnam is a country of contrasts; the weather varies greatly depending on where you go, from the foggy mountains of Sapa to the sunny shores of Phu Quoc. What can visitors expect from Vietnam in December? Let’s find out.

the comparison of weather in vietnam in the month of December

What is the weather like in Vietnam in December?

December marks the beginning of winter in Northern Vietnam, just before the coldest month arrives in January. At the same time, it is the peak of the dry season in the South, while the Central region may still experience persistent rains. The weather shows a clear contrast between regions:

  • Northern Vietnam experiences cool to cold weather, the average temperature ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). A peaceful, wintry beauty is created by misty mornings and dry skies, making it the perfect place for cultural tours and picturesque treks.
  • Central Vietnam is still unpredictable. As the month draws to a close, conditions gradually improve, but rain and occasional flooding are still probable. The usual temperature range is between 18°C and 24°C (64°F and 75°F).
  • Southern Vietnam is warm, dry, and sunny. With average temperatures between 25°C and 30°C (77°F and 86°F), it’s one of the greatest places to go for beach vacations and outdoor activities.

Best places to visit in Vietnam in December

1. Sapa (Northern Vietnam)

Sapa is a serene mountain town known for its breathtaking rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and views of Fansipan – the highest peak in Indochina. In December, Sapa takes on a moody, almost magical atmosphere with mist rolling over the hills and valleys.

Weather in Sapa: December is one of the coldest months in Sapa. Temperatures usually range from 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F). The air is crisp and chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings. Though rain is rare this time of year, mist and fog are frequent, adding a poetic stillness to the landscape.

Recommended Activities:

  • Trekking through rice fields to reach H’mong and Dao villages
  • Visiting Love Waterfall and Heaven’s Gate
  • Warming up with a herbal bath or a hot bowl of “thắng cố”
  • Shopping at the weekend ethnic markets

sapa in december

sapa vietnam - winter is a less tourist month to visit northern vietnam

2. Hanoi (Northern Vietnam)

Vietnam’s capital city is a charming blend of ancient temples, French colonial buildings, and narrow streets buzzing with local life. December brings a festive, romantic vibe to the city, ideal for slow strolls and café-hopping.

Weather in Hanoi: Hanoi in December is cool and dry. Temperatures hover between 13°C and 20°C (55°F to 68°F). Rainfall is minimal, and though the sun isn’t always out, the cloudy skies create a calm, cozy backdrop for exploration.

Recommended Activities:

  • Wandering the Old Quarter and visiting Hoan Kiem Lake
  • Exploring historical sites like the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
  • Watching a traditional water puppet show
  • Sipping egg coffee while people-watching from a balcony café

3. Da Lat (Central Highlands)

Da Lat is known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” famous for its pine forests, flower gardens, and French villas. It feels like a European town tucked into Vietnam’s central highlands.

Weather in Da Lat: December is one of the best months to visit Da Lat. The weather is cool and fresh, with daytime temperatures between 14°C and 24°C (57°F to 75°F). Skies are mostly clear, and rainfall is rare, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Recommended Activities:

  • Exploring flower gardens and waterfalls like Pongour or Datanla
  • Walking around Xuan Huong Lake or visiting the night market
  • Visiting the Crazy House and Da Lat Railway Station
  • Sipping hot artichoke tea or soy milk by the fire

dalat, central highlands of vietnam - dal at is cool year round

4. Phu Quoc Island (Southern Vietnam)

Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s tropical island gem, known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere. December is high season, and the island is at its most beautiful.

Weather in Phu Quoc: Phu Quoc enjoys perfect beach weather in December. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with sunny skies, gentle breezes, and almost no rain. The sea is calm and ideal for water activities.

Recommended Activities:

  • Swimming, diving, or snorkeling in clear waters
  • Taking a boat trip to nearby islets in the An Thoi archipelago
  • Watching the sunset at Long Beach or Dinh Cau Temple
  • Exploring local life at night markets and fish sauce factories

phu quốc island, located in southern most part of vietnam, the weather is warm and nice all year round, December market as one of the best times to visit the island

5. Ho Chi Minh City (Southern Vietnam)

A fast-paced city filled with energy, history, and endless food stalls, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is both dynamic and exciting. December is one of the most pleasant months to visit.

Weather in Ho Chi Minh City: In December, the weather is dry and warm with temperatures between 24°C and 31°C (75°F to 88°F). Humidity is lower than usual, and rainfall is rare, making it perfect for walking and sightseeing.

Recommended Activities:

  • Visiting landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, and War Remnants Museum
  • Trying local street food and Vietnamese iced coffee
  • Shopping at Ben Thanh Market or Saigon Square
  • Enjoying rooftop bars and festive lights around the city center

6. Mekong Delta (Southern Vietnam)

A peaceful world of rivers, canals, and fruit orchards, the Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s agricultural heart. It’s especially beautiful in the dry season when travel is easier and water activities are more enjoyable.

Weather in Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta is warm, dry, and sunny in December, with temperatures between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F). It’s one of the best times to explore this water-rich region without worrying about rain.

Recommended Activities:

  • Cruising through floating markets like Cai Rang or Long Xuyen
  • Visiting local workshops, rice paper makers, and tropical fruit farms
  • Cycling along canals and staying in a riverside homestay
  • Taking a sunset boat ride along the waterways

can tho, located in teh heart of the Mekong, best time to visit this reagin is between October to late February

Visiting central Vietnam: Hue danang Hoi An in December

If you’re planning to visit the Central region, like Hue or Hoi An, in December, try to avoid the first half of the month, when heavy rains and occasional flooding can still affect travel plans.

These historic cities are beautiful, but the lingering rainy season can dampen outdoor activities and sightseeing. In the second half of December, however, the weather often improves, with less rainfall and milder conditions, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable time to explore.

Hoi An, December is Thebes month to visit central vietnam, no rain and the weather is ideal

Top Events and Festivals in Vietnam in December

1. Christmas Eve

Though Vietnam is not a Christian-majority country, Christmas is widely celebrated, especially in big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. Streets and shopping centers are decorated with lights, trees, and ornaments. Locals, especially young people, go out at night to take photos, enjoy street food, and celebrate with friends.

2. Dalat Flower Festival

Held every two years (next in 2025), this week-long festival turns Da Lat into a floral wonderland with parades, art shows, and performances. The cool weather, colorful displays, and lively atmosphere make it perfect for photography and enjoying local culture.

3. Traditional Markets & Year-End Fairs

In late December, as Tet approaches, markets across Vietnam come alive with holiday foods, decorations, and gifts. From big cities to small villages, the air fills with festive energy, colorful lanterns, and the scent of seasonal treats like fruits, candies, and bánh chưng ingredients.

4. Local Ethnic Festivals

In the month of December, ethnic minority villages in Sapa, Ha Giang, and Lai Chau may host traditional year-end gatherings or harvest festivals. While not set by the Western calendar, lucky visitors might catch vibrant dances, local markets with handmade goods, buffalo ceremonies, or even a rare “love market” reunion.

5. New Year’s Eve

Though Tet is Vietnam’s main New Year celebration, the Western New Year is still lively in big cities. Expect fireworks, countdowns, and concerts in public squares. Popular spots include Nguyen Hue and Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City, Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, and beachside resorts in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.

What to wear in Vietnam if visiting in December

Northern Vietnam

(Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang): Pack a layer of a windproof jacket, long pants, sweaters or hoodies, and a scarf. Comfortable shoes and warm socks are essential if you’re heading to higher altitudes.

Central Vietnam

(Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang): Bring breathable, quick-drying clothes, a raincoat or umbrella, and waterproof sandals or shoes. A light jacket may be useful on cooler, rainy days.

Southern Vietnam

(Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Light, airy clothing like T-shirts, shorts, and dresses is ideal. Don’t forget sun protection: a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light cover-up is useful for air-conditioned places.

Tips for traveling to Vietnam in December

Pack for all climates

Vietnam experiences a wide range of meteorological conditions, with the north being chilly, the center being rainy, and the south being dry.

Stay healthy during the dry season

In most of Vietnam, particularly in the south, December is the start of the dry season. To protect your skin, pack sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer. Stay hydrated, and carry a refillable water bottle.

Take some basic medication

The weather can be unpredictable, and temperature differences between regions are significant, so make sure to bring cold medicine and take care of your health.

Book early for holidays

Hotels and transport fill up quickly around Christmas and New Year, particularly in beach destinations like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang.

Enjoy seasonal events

Look out for highland festivals, traditional markets, and Christmas celebrations; they provide a rich cultural touch.

FAQs: Traveling to Vietnam in December

Yes. December offers cool, dry weather in the north and south, festive events, and fewer crowds than peak holiday seasons.

The north can get chilly, especially in the mountains – temperatures may drop below 10°C (50°F) in places like Sapa. The rest of the country is milder.

Yes – especially in the south (Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Nha Trang), where the weather is warm and sunny. In central areas like Da Nang, the sea may be rough and cooler, but swimming is still possible on nicer days.

Pack layers for the north, rain gear for central Vietnam, and light summer clothing for the south. Don’t forget sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm, and some cold medicine.

Try warm and hearty dishes like phở, bún bò Huế, and lẩu (hot pot). Seasonal fruits like oranges, pomelo, and custard apple are also at their best. In the north, grilled meats and sticky rice are popular in colder weather.

Most remain open during Christmas and New Year. Only Tet (usually late January or February) causes widespread closures.

Yes. Flights, buses, and trains operate normally. Just keep an eye on weather conditions in central Vietnam, which may still have some rain.

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