Vietnam Weather in December: Temperature & Things to Do

Vietnam is a large and geographically varied country, which means that the weather can vary significantly depending on where and when you go. If you are planning to visit Vietnam in December, you might be wondering what the weather is like and where are the best places to go.

Before you start packing and booking your tickets, it’s wise to gather more insights into what to expect from Vietnam’s December weather and the best places to visit for an exceptional experience. In this article, I’ll provide valuable information and tips to assist you in planning the perfect trip to Vietnam in December.

The Climate of Vietnam in December

In general, Vietnam weather in December is dry and mild, with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). However, this is a very broad statement that does not reflect the regional variations and the occasional rain showers that may affect your travel plans.

To give you a more detailed picture, I will divide Vietnam into three main regions: the north, the central, and the south. The average temperatures and rainfall for different regions in Vietnam are as follows:

Region	Average Temperature	Average Rainfall
Northern Vietnam	16°C – 27°C	31 mm – 8 rainy days
Central Vietnam	18°C – 30°C	13 mm – 4 rainy days
Southern Vietnam	22°C – 30°C	26 mm – 7 rainy days

North Vietnam Weather in December

Northern Vietnam has Hanoi, Sapa, and Halong Bay. December is the start of winter there. The weather during this month is cool and dry, with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F) and around 31 mm of rainfall. It can get quite chilly at night, dropping to about 10°C (50°F), so make sure to pack some warm clothes and a jacket.

In the mornings and evenings, you might experience fog and mist, especially in Halong Bay. While this creates a romantic atmosphere, it can sometimes interfere with boat tours. Nonetheless, December is a fantastic time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. You can explore attractions in Hanoi, go trekking and cycling in Sapa, or enjoy cruising and kayaking in Halong Bay. Just remember to be prepared for the cold and rain, and it’s a good idea to book your tours and accommodations in advance as it tends to be a busy tourist season.

Central Vietnam Weather in December

In Central Vietnam, the weather in December is quite pleasant. It’s moderately warm with some rain, humidity, and clouds. During the day, temperatures usually range from 18°C to 30°C, with an average of around 24°C.

In terms of rainfall, December gets about 150 mm, which is the second highest amount for the year. The humidity averages around 80%, which is the second lowest of the year. As for sunshine, you can expect approximately 5 hours, which is the second lowest amount for the year.

South Vietnam Weather in December

Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island, has hot and sunny weather in December. The average temperature is 26°C (79°F) with minimal rainfall of about 40 mm (1.6 inches). The temperature ranges from 22°C (72°F) to 30°C (86°F) depending on the time of day and location.

Rainfall occurs sporadically, mostly in the late afternoon or evening. The sky is clear and bright, and the humidity is low, making it an ideal month for beach vacations and exploring both urban and rural attractions. Just remember, it’s a busy time for tourists, so prices and crowds may be higher than usual.

The Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in December

With so many options and attractions, how can you choose the best places to visit in Vietnam in December? Here are some suggestions based on the weather and the popularity of each destination:

Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital city of northern Vietnam and a cultural hub with a rich history. In December, Hanoi enjoys a cool and dry weather with an average temperature of 16°C – 27°C. It is also one of the least crowded months in Hanoi, so you can enjoy its attractions without too much hassle:

Check-in with daisy mums when traveling to Hanoi in December. What flowers are there in Hanoi in December? When traveling to Hanoi in December, tourists can check-in with daisy mums as this is the time when the flowers are in full bloom. To capture a beautiful picture with daisy mums, tourists can visit Quang Ba flower market, Nhat Tan flower village, Tay Tuu flower garden, or the flower garden on the banks of the Red River…
Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy the cool weather: Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Sword Lake, is likened to a “Flower Basket in the Heart of the City” by foreign visitors due to its poetic and gentle beauty, along with its many ancient historical landmarks.
Explore Old Quarter: the historic heart of Hanoi. You can wander through its narrow streets lined with shops selling souvenirs, clothes, food, and more.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay, located in northern Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It boasts a stunning landscape of karst mountains and emerald waters dotted with thousands of limestone islands. It is a highly popular destination in Vietnam due to its scenic beauty.

In December, the average temperature in Halong Bay ranges from 20°C to 27°C, and there is an average rainfall of 18 mm over 5 rainy days. This month tends to be less crowded in Halong Bay, allowing visitors to appreciate its tranquility without excessive noise.

During December, here are some things you can do in Halong Bay:

Take a cruise along the Halong River or opt for an overnight cruise to enhance the adventure.
Explore floating villages and kayak around them, or visit notable caves such as Sung Sot Cave or Dau Go Cave.
Indulge in delicious seafood at floating restaurants or local eateries.
Unwind on beaches like Bai Tu Long Bay or Cat Ba Island.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An experiences its low season, which coincides with the rainy season, in December. This means there are fewer crowds during this time. As December progresses, the rainfall decreases significantly, so it won’t greatly impact your tour.

If you’re looking to celebrate Christmas, traveling to Hoi An in late December is a worthwhile option. The festival atmosphere adds vibrancy to the ancient town with its holiday decorations and colorful lanterns.

The beautiful historic buildings and scenery in Hoi An make it a popular choice for local newly-weds to take their wedding photos, often wearing the traditional Vietnamese costume called ao dai.

Ho Chi Minh City

December in Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting time with lots of festivities (Christmas and New Year) happening throughout its different districts. If you’re an expatriate living in Districts 1, 2, 3, or 7, you’re in luck because there are plenty of fantastic dining options available.

Even when you’re away from home, these establishments will make sure you have a memorable experience during the holiday season. If you want to soak up the local atmosphere, you can grab a refreshing beer at Bui Vien or head over to Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street. There, you can join in the anticipation of the Countdown event and have a great time.

Phu Quoc Island

December is an ideal time to plan your visit to Phu Quoc Island. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and calm seas. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or a fun family vacation, Phu Quoc has got you covered. Don’t hesitate to book your trip to this wonderful resort island!

Tips for traveling to Vietnam in December

Book your flights and hotels in advance because December is a peak season for tourism in Vietnam and prices can go up.
Before your trip, check the weather forecast since some regions might experience rain and wind in December. This way, you can adjust your plans accordingly.
Pack smartly for the weather and activities you have planned. Bring warm and layered clothes for the north and mountainous areas, light and breathable clothes for the south and central regions, rain gear for occasional showers, and sun protection items for sunny days.
Show respect for Vietnam’s culture and customs, as it is a diverse and multi-ethnic country with various traditions and beliefs. Remember to dress modestly and appropriately when visiting religious or historical sites, avoid public displays of affection, and follow local etiquette.
One of the highlights of traveling to Vietnam is enjoying its food and drink. Don’t miss the chance to try famous dishes like pho, banh mi, spring rolls, coffee, and beer. Additionally, you can sample local delicacies and street food like balut, durian, and snails.

Vietnam weather in December is generally dry and pleasant across the country, making it one of the best months to visit this amazing destination. Want to plan a trip to Vietnam this December? It’s a fantastic chance to explore and discover something new!