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December in Vietnam

December in Vietnam: Weather, places to visit & travel advice

24/11/2025 200 views

December in Vietnam invites you to explore new horizons and embrace the pure joy of discovery. From north to south, stunning destinations await to ignite your wanderlust.

Quick Tips
  • Weather: The North is cool and crisp, the Central sees fading rains, the South is warm and sunny.
  • Highlights: Sapa and Ha Giang’s winter wonderlands, Phu Quoc’s beaches, and Quang Binh’s caves.
  • Tips: Pack suitable clothes, book flights and accommodations early, prepare indoor activities as a backup.

1. Weather in December in Vietnam

The Vietnam temperature in December offers a delightful contrast, with cold air in the North, gentle sunshine along the Central coast, and dry, warm conditions in the South.

The weather in Vietnam in December varies across region

The weather in Vietnam in December varies across regions (Source: Collected)

1.1. In Northern Vietnam

In December, Northern Vietnam embraces the winter season with crisp, dry air. The Red River Delta can fall below 10°C, while highlands like Sapa may see frost or snow. Below are the average temperatures of some popular destinations this month.

Destination Average temperature
Hanoi 10-23°C
Sapa 5-18°C
Ha Giang 10-18°C
Ninh Binh 16-22°C
Ha Long Bay 14-23°C
Hai Phong 18-22°C

 

1.2. Central Vietnam

December in Central Vietnam is part of the rainy season, yet the rain fades by month’s end, giving way to clear skies and pleasant days for exploring. See the table below for average temperatures in some popular destinations in December.

Destination Average temperature
Quang Binh 20-24°C
Hue 20-23°C
Da Nang 20-25°C
Hoi An 19-27°C 
Nha Trang 18-25°C
Mui Ne 24-30°C
Da Lat 11-27°C

 

1.3. In Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam in December enjoys warm weather and plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect escape from the cold. The table below shows the average temperatures of some popular destinations in the region.

Destination Average temperature
Ho Chi Minh City 23-31°C
Vung Tau 25-29°C
Can Tho 23-31°C
Con Dao 26-27°C
Phu Quoc 22-30°C
Vietnam in December offers a mix of exciting and unexpected experiences

Vietnam in December offers a mix of exciting and unexpected experiences (Source: Collected)

Explore: Vietnam weather by month: A must-have on your pre-travel checklist

2. Is December a good time to travel to Vietnam?

Yes, December in Vietnam is an ideal time for traveling. The country dazzles in this month with stable weather, diverse landscapes, and festive cheer. Rainfall is low nationwide, while each region has its own charm: the North features misty mountains and winter scenery, the Central enjoys gentle sunshine and picturesque beaches, and the South presents dry, warm weather amid lush rivers. Year-end festivities like Christmas add extra excitement.

Discover: Best time to visit Vietnam: Pick the right time to schedule your vacation

3. Best places to visit in December in Vietnam

3.1. Lang Son

Lang Son is a top destination in December in Vietnam, enchanting visitors with its magical winter landscapes. Among them, Mau Son stands out as a frosty wonderland, where French villas, mountain villages, and winding paths glisten under a thin veil of ice, creating one of the most picturesque scenes of Vietnam in winter. Tourists can explore famous sites such as Tam Thanh Cave, To Thi Mountain, Chi Lang Pass, and Ky Cung Temple. You can also savor local delicacies like steamed rice rolls with egg, roasted duck with Clausena indica leaves, frog, and climbing wattle.

December in Vietnam

Vietnam in December amazes visitors with the breathtaking landscapes of Mau Son (Source: Collected)

3.2. Sapa

Sapa is among the best places to visit in Vietnam in December, where valleys sparkle under the morning sun and crisp mountain air fills every corner. With a bit of luck, you may witness snow or frost covering the peaks, a rare sight in tropical Vietnam. The top places to explore include Ham Rong Mountain, Cat Cat Village, Stone Church, Fansipan Mountain, O Quy Ho Pass, and O Long Tea Hills. After a day of discovery, you can warm up with local specialties such as salmon hotpot, grilled stream fish, roasted pork, thang co, and Sapa street food like roasted chestnuts or bamboo rice.

3.3. Quang Binh

In December, Quang Binh enjoys calmer days as the floods have passed and the rain has eased. This poetic land captivates tourists with its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and the world-renowned Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. This month is an ideal time to explore magnificent caves like Hang En Cave and Hang Tien Cave, or relax on the tranquil Nhat Le Beach in Dong Hoi. Beyond its natural beauty, Quang Binh also enchants visitors with its local flavors such as tapioca dumplings with shrimp and pork, porridge noodles, and cobia hotpot.

Vietnam in December amazes visitors with breathtaking landscapes

December is a perfect time to explore Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.4. Mui Ne

With many beautiful attractions, Mui Ne is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam in December. This month is perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and exploring coastal gems like Hon Rom, Bau Trang – Bau Sen, and the unique Co Thach Beach with its seven-color stones. Visitors can also marvel at Mui Ne’s sand dunes, stroll along the Fairy Stream, or soak up the vibrant local life at Mui Ne Fishing Village. Those who love culture can head to Ke Ga Cape, Duc Thanh School, Van Thuy Tu Temple, and Poshanu Cham Towers.

3.5. Ho Chi Minh City

December in Vietnam is a great time to visit Ho Chi Minh City, where diverse cultures, festive energy, and exciting attractions come together in a lively urban setting. During Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City, the streets sparkle with colorful lights, creating a perfect setting for an evening stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Bui Vien Street. Visitors can discover iconic landmarks such as the Independence Palace, Tan Dinh Church, and Saigon Central Post Office, or venture beyond the city to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels. To experience local life, head to the bustling Ben Thanh Market or Chinatown, both brimming with unique flavors.

Among the best places to go in Vietnam in December, Grand Park stands out as a must-see. This entertainment complex covers a vast area with many themed zones, offering everything from gentle rides to exciting adventures.

Grand Park promises an unforgettable experience when you visit Vietnam in December

Grand Park promises an unforgettable experience when you visit Vietnam in December

 

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3.6. Phu Quoc

Is Vietnam warm in December? Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise blessed with calm seas and golden sunshine for beach lovers. It is home to some of the best beaches in Vietnam in December including Sao Beach, Ong Lang Beach, and Long Beach. Adventurous tourists can kayak, snorkel, and go island-hopping to Fingernail Island, May Rut Island, Gam Ghi Island, where crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs await. For a deeper connection to both nature and culture, visit Ho Quoc Pagoda, Phu Quoc National Park, and Phu Quoc Prison.

When you travel to Vietnam in December, be sure to explore VinWonders Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest theme park. Nearby, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc invites you to encounter wildlife up close. To complete the experience, Grand World Phu Quoc dazzles with European architecture, colorful streets, and romantic canals.

VinWonders Phu Quoc provides endless fun

VinWonders Phu Quoc provides endless fun

 

Book VinWonders Phu Quoc ticket now

 

See wildlife at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc in Vietnam in December

See wildlife at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc in Vietnam in December

 

Book tickets of Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc

 

4. Seasonal highlights of Vietnam in December

4.1. Fruits

December in Vietnam becomes even more appealing with its seasonal tropical fruits, each featuring a unique taste experience.

  • Buoi Dien (pomelo) in Hanoi: Golden and fragrant with a light, refreshing sweetness.
  • Cam Sanh (orange) in Ha Giang: Large and round, with a slightly rough, dark-orange peel and sweet, aromatic flesh.
  • Sapo Mac Bac Kim Son (sapodilla) in Tien Giang: Soft, juicy, and intensely sweet with thin, reddish-brown skin.
  • Vu Sua Lo Ren (star apple) in Tien Giang: Fleshy and fragrant, with few seeds and a sweet flavor.

4.2. Festivals

December in Vietnam is most notable for the festive celebration of Christmas in Vietnam. In Hanoi, the Old Quarter transforms into a sparkling wonderland with Christmas markets and street shows. Ho Chi Minh City dazzles with decorated churches, bustling streets, and cozy cafés with seasonal treats. In Phu Quoc, Grand World Phu Quoc captures the holiday spirit with the island’s tallest Christmas tree and interactive activities.

5. Tips for visiting Vietnam in December

5.1. Packing tips

What to wear in Vietnam in December? As the weather varies across regions, you can refer to the tips below to pack appropriately:

  • Northern Vietnam: Thick jackets, wool sweaters, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and accessories like hats, scarves, gloves.
  • Central Vietnam: Light jackets or cardigans for evenings, shirts for daytime, comfortable walking clothes, and a rain jacket for occasional showers. 
  • Southern Vietnam: Breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable sandals for the beach.
December in Vietnam delights with lively festivals

December in Vietnam delights with lively festivals (Source: Collected)

Read more: What to wear in Vietnam: A seasonal and regional guide

5.2. Travel costs & booking tips

December in Vietnam is a peak tourist season. Hotels often add surcharges on December 24th and 31st, and rooms often fill up fast. Here are some tips to plan efficiently:

  • Book flights and accommodations at least 1-2 months in advance, especially for popular destinations like Sapa, Phu Quoc, and Ha Long Bay.
  • Arrange tours and local guides in advance for Sapa, Ha Giang, or remote islands such as Phu Quoc and Con Dao.
  • Reserve train tickets, bus fares, or rental motorbikes and cars early to secure better seats and prices.
  • Have indoor attractions ready on the itinerary for rainy or cold days
  • Use domestic flights for long distances and limousine buses for shorter trips between cities

Check out: Travel to Vietnam tips: 17 things tourists whisper to each other

FAQs about visiting Vietnam in December

Is December the rainy season in Vietnam?

No, December is generally dry in all the three regions.

Is it cold in Vietnam in December?

It can be cold in Northern Vietnam, where sometimes the temperatures drop below 10°C. The Central and South remain warm.

Which part of Vietnam is best to visit in December?

The best places for Vietnam travel in December depend on your preference. The North is ideal for trekking in mountain areas like Sapa, the Central is perfect for cultural exploration (Hue and Hoi An), while the South offers sunny beaches like Phu Quoc. 

Is Vietnam crowded in December?

Yes, December is a peak tourist season with festive celebration and high demand, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Is Vietnam expensive in December?

Prices rise in December due to the high demand. Still, they remain very affordable compared to other tourist destinations in the world.

Are there mosquitoes in Vietnam in December ?

Yes, but their activity is lower than in other months. Using insect repellent and protective clothing is recommended in areas with dense vegetation.

FAQs about visiting Vietnam in December

Be well-prepared to make the most of your trip to Vietnam in December (Source: Collected)

December in Vietnam provides cool weather and stunning scenery. From the North’s mountains to the Central’s cultural gems and the South’s beaches, every region promises unforgettable experiences.

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