December is the best time to visit Vietnam, with dry weather in the north (Hanoi, Halong Bay) and the south (Ho Chi Minh City). Central Vietnam (like Da Nang) is still experiencing its rainy season, but it has decreased to moderate levels.
If you're after beaches, sunshine, and the most festive Christmas, Southern Vietnam is your best place to go.
See regional weather details below and tips on places not to go in December.
Hanoi & Northern Vietnam in December: Cool and Dry
- Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh & Mai Chau
Ha Long BayDecember marks the start of winter in northern Vietnam. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C, with nighttime lows dropping below 10°C.
The weather is mostly dry, with occasional light drizzles but little prolonged rain. Some days in Hanoi and Ha Long Bay may be overcast, affecting long-range views. Swimming is not suggested in Halong Bay as the water is cold. But kayaking is fine if you are careful not to get wet.
In the northern highlands (such as Sapa), temperatures are even lower, with possible frost and heavy fog. Sapa's mountain areas often experience thick mist, reducing visibility at Fansipan's summit. Rice terraces are barren, making this season less ideal for scenic views.
What to pack: Coats, warm hats, and layers of clothing (e.g. hoodies) for cool northern Vietnam.
Christmas Weather & Special Experiences
December nights are cold, creating a wintery, festive atmosphere. Hanoi's Old Quarter and West Lake areas are full of Christmas decorations and perfect for evening strolls. St. Joseph's Cathedral features a beautiful light display and midnight mass.
Da Nang & Central Vietnam in December: Rainy and Unpredictable
- Hoi An, Danang, Hue, Nha Trang, Dalat
Hoi An Ancient TownDecember signals the end of the rainy season in central Vietnam, though early storms are still possible.
Frequent rain and occasional storms make beach vacations a poor choice. Danang and Hoi An beaches often have strong winds and high waves, making swimming unsafe.
Ba Na Hills is frequently covered in fog, limiting the visibility of its iconic cable car rides and Golden Bridge. Low-lying areas like Hoi An ancient town may experience short flooding after heavy rain.
Cave lovers should skip December because the most famous Phong Nha-Ke Bang and Hang Son Doong are still closed due to high water levels.
Instead, dive into culture! Stroll through lantern-lit Hoi An, release river lanterns, or visit Hue's Imperial City and Thien Mu Pagoda.
What to Wear: Waterproof rain jacket or raincoat, umbrella, rubber boots, and light, quick-drying wear
Christmas Weather & Special Experiences
You might experience rainy days during Christmas. Across Vietnam, central Vietnam has the least festive Christmas atmosphere. But you could still enjoy special Christmas dinners at some hotels and restaurants.
Ho Chi Minh & Southern Vietnam in December: Warm and Sunny
- Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Con Dao & Phu Quoc
Phu QuocDecember is one of the best times to visit southern Vietnam, with clear skies, hardly any rain, and temperatures around 31°C.
As one of the coolest months, enjoy a leisurely city walk in Ho Chi Minh City, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, or cycle in the Mekong Delta, all without the scorching heat.
For a beach getaway, whether in Phu Quoc or Con Dao, you're in for sunny skies, stunning sunrises and sunsets, and calm seas perfect for snorkeling.
What to Wear: Summer clothes, pack light clothing, swimwear, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from the strong sun.
Christmas Weather & Special Experiences
Christmas brings perfect weather for all activities. Ho Chi Minh City is the most festive place for Christmas, with light displays around Diamond Plaza and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Christmas markets, and buffets easy to find.
Heads up: Christmas is peak season. Expect higher prices (up to 20-30%) and limited availability—book early!
Where NOT to Go in Vietnam in December
1. Skip Central Vietnam for Beach Vacations
Danang and Hoi An are too rainy and overcast for a beach trip. With rough waves and temperatures in the low 20s°C (68°F), swimming and snorkeling are out.
If you're set on a beach holiday, head south to Phu Quoc, where the weather is warm, and the sea is calm.
Da Nang in December2. Avoid the Summit of Sapa
Sapa's mountain scenery is stunning—but not in December. December's fog and chilly temperatures (below 10°C (50°F)!) make hiking slippery and views scarce, especially on Mt. Fansipan.
Instead of foggy and freezing Sapa, Ninh Binh (2 hours from Hanoi) offers similar rural landscapes with clearer skies and comfortable temperatures.
Contact our Vietnam experts to plan your trip wisely and optimize the best weather.
Sapa in DecemberCrowds and Costs in Vietnam
December brings the busiest (and priciest!) travel period to North & South Vietnam, as the dry weather and festivals come along: the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Hotels and flights are likely to jump by 20–30% compared to off-season prices. Popular attractions are the busiest, such as more cruises in Halong Bay and longer queues for Instagram-famous photo spots.
Bargains are not possible on hotels or tours during this high-season month. And avoid last-minute plans.
Central Vietnam sees a quieter and more affordable trip, as it's still experiencing its rainy season. Cultural highlights like Hoi An ancient town and My Son Sanctuary (mini Angkor Wat) are less affected by the rainfall. Just pack rain gear for occasional showers.
Average Temperatures and Rainfall in Popular Areas (December)
| Vietnam Area | Min./Max. Temp | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | 15°C/59°F - 21°C/72°F | 15 mm (0.59 in) in 1 day |
| Sapa | 10°C/50°F - 20°C/68°F | 28 mm (1.10 in) in 4 days |
| Halong | 15°C/59°F - 20°C/68°F | 18 mm (0.71 in) in 5 days |
| Hoi An | 20°C/68°F - 26°C/79°F | 206 mm (8.11 in) in 13 days |
| Danang | 20°C/68°F - 23°C/73°F | 213 mm (8.39 in) in 13 days |
| Nha Trang | 22°C/72°F - 26°C/79°F | 103 mm (4.06 in) in 14 days |
| Da Lat | 15°C/59°F - 23°C/73°F | 50 mm (1.97 in) in 8 days |
| Ho Chi Minh City | 23°C/73°F - 31°C/88°F | 26 mm (1.02 in) in 3 days |
| Phu Quoc | 23°C/73°F - 30°C/86°F | 48 mm (1.89 in) in 8 days |
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Vietnam
Learn about the weather in Vietnam for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
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