Vietnam in December is a great time to visit: cool air in the north, sunny beaches in the south, and lively year-end vibes. This guide covers regional weather, the best places to visit in Vietnam in December, key events and festivals, suggested itineraries, and practical tips. For a full country overview, see our Travel to Vietnam 2026.
Weather in Vietnam in December
The weather shifts by region, so your experience depends on where you go.
- North Vietnam in December (Hanoi, Ha Long, Sapa, Ha Giang): 15–20°C (59–68°F) in cities; colder in the mountains at night. Mist and crisp air bring a different charm to Ha Long Bay cruises and trekking.
- Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): rain eases compared with October–November; ~22–24°C (71–75°F). Good for culture plus easy beach walks. Occasional showers still possible.
- South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): dry season, ~28–30°C (82–86°F). Reliable sunshine for island time and river trips.
For historical climate baselines, consult reputable resources such as Climate-Data.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Vietnam?
Yes, December is a very good time to visit Vietnam, but the experience depends on which part of the country you are heading to. Vietnam stretches more than 1,600 km from north to south, so weather conditions can be quite different between Hanoi, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc.
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): December marks the start of winter. The air in Hanoi can feel crisp, with daytime temperatures around 15–20°C and cooler nights dropping below 10°C, especially in Sapa. It’s a great time to enjoy misty mountain views, trekking, or a cozy cruise in Ha Long Bay, though you may need a jacket
Ha Long
Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): Central Vietnam still experiences some rainfall in early December, especially in Hue and Da Nang. However, by mid to late December, the rains usually ease off, and you’ll get comfortable weather with average highs of 22–26°C. Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets are particularly atmospheric during the cooler evenings
Da Nang city.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): December is one of the best months to explore the south. It’s dry, sunny, and warm, with average highs of 28–32°C. Perfect for sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City, cycling through the Mekong Delta, or relaxing on Phu Quoc’s white-sand beaches
Phu Quoc Island
In short, December offers pleasant weather across most of Vietnam. The north is cooler, the central coast is improving after the rainy season, and the south is at its peak for sunshine. This makes December an attractive choice if you want to combine cultural exploration with beach time.
If you want ready-made options, browse our Best Vietnam tour packages.
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in December
Ha Long Bay & the North
Cool mornings and soft light make limestone karsts feel extra atmospheric. Consider a 2-day cruise to enjoy caves, kayaking, and bayside sunsets. See current options at our Ha Long cruise collection.
Hanoi & Northern Highlands
Hanoi’s walking streets, coffee culture, and museums feel relaxed in cooler air. If you love scenery, extend to Sapa or Ha Giang for terraced valleys and mountain passes. See North Vietnam tours for ideas.
Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An
Rain fades and mild temperatures return. Mix imperial history in Hue with coastal views over Hai Van Pass, then slow down in lantern-lit Hoi An. Short breaks work well here; see our notes on 2 or 3 days in Da Nang & Hoi An.
Phu Quoc & Southern Beaches
Dry season means clear seas and dependable sunshine. Easy flight connections make Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc an effortless add-on. Ideal for families or anyone wanting a beach finale to their trip.
Mekong Delta
December’s dry weather is perfect for floating markets, canals, and countryside cycling. Pair a delta day trip with time in Ho Chi Minh City for an easy contrast.
Events and Festivals in December
While December is not the peak festival month in Vietnam compared to Tet or Mid-Autumn Festival, it still brings unique events and a festive atmosphere worth experiencing:
Christmas Celebrations (Noel): Vietnam is not a Christian-majority country, but Christmas is widely celebrated in major cities. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, churches like St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Notre Dame Cathedral become gathering points filled with lights, music, and crowds. Even non-religious locals join in the festive vibe, enjoying decorations, gift shopping, and special holiday menus. If you’re in Hoi An, the Old Town’s lanterns and Christmas lights create a warm blend of Vietnamese and Western traditions.
New Year’s Eve (31 December): Vietnam follows the lunar calendar for Tet, but international New Year is still celebrated, especially in big cities. In Ho Chi Minh City, District 1 is packed with live music, countdown parties, and fireworks. Hanoi also hosts outdoor concerts and public gatherings around Hoan Kiem Lake. This is a lively way to end your December trip.
Local Festivals and Events:
Da Lat Flower Festival (biennial, often held in December): If your visit coincides with this event, you’ll see the city transformed into a giant garden with exhibitions, parades, and flower displays.
Traditional Village Markets: In rural areas, December markets start gearing up for Tet, Vietnam’s biggest holiday. Visiting these local markets gives travelers a sneak peek into the preparations, from colorful fabrics to seasonal snacks.
Overall, while December may not have a long list of traditional Vietnamese festivals, it’s a month where modern celebrations meet local culture. You’ll find vibrant decorations, family gatherings, and a cheerful mood across the country – making it feel festive even for international travelers.
Suggested Itineraries for December
- 5 days – Southern Sunshine: HCMC (city highlights) → Mekong Delta (day trip) → HCMC to Phu Quoc (2–3 nights). Great for beach-first travelers.
- 7–10 days – Classic Highlights: Hanoi (Old Quarter) → Ha Long Bay cruise → fly Da Nang → Hoi An → HCMC. Balance culture, scenery, and food.
For more options, check our detailed 5 days in Vietnam or Vietnam Itinerary 14 Days
Travel Tips for December in Vietnam
- What to pack: Light layers for the north; a warm jacket for mountain nights; breathable clothing, hat, and sunscreen for the south.
- Book early: Christmas–New Year is busy. Secure hotels, cruises, and flights in advance—especially Phu Quoc and Hoi An.
- Getting around: Domestic flights are efficient for north–south moves; trains add scenery; buses and private transfers connect central coastal towns.
- Food & drinks: Try steaming bowls of pho in Hanoi’s cool air, fresh seafood on the central coast, and tropical fruit in the Mekong.
Recommended Tours for December
- Most Interesting Destinations of Vietnam
- Vietnam Trail Explorer
- Treasures of Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi
- Ideal Vietnam and Cambodia Tour Packages
- Discover Vietnam, Country of Dragons
Conclusion
Vietnam in December is one of the most rewarding times to visit. With comfortable weather across regions, festive celebrations in major cities, and sunny southern beaches, the country has something for every traveler. Whether you want to explore cultural heritage in Hanoi and Hue, take a Ha Long Bay cruise, or simply relax on Phu Quoc Island, December offers the right balance of adventure and relaxation. Plan ahead for Christmas and New Year holidays, secure your bookings early, and you’ll enjoy a memorable journey to Vietnam at the end of the year.
FAQ: Vietnam in December
The south—Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and especially Phu Quoc—offers the warmest, sunniest conditions.
Choose the north for cool, culture-rich cities and mountain scenery; choose the south for reliable beach weather. Many travelers combine both using a short domestic flight.
Pack layers. A light jacket or fleece for the north (and warmer gear for mountain nights), plus summer clothing and sun protection for the south.
Top picks include Ha Long Bay for cruises, Hanoi for culture, Hoi An for heritage charm, and Phu Quoc for sunny beaches. These destinations match the season perfectly.
Yes. December falls in Vietnam’s high season, especially around Christmas and New Year. Hotels and flights can sell out, so book early.
