Vietnam is a unique country with over 2000 miles of coastline and three distinct weather patterns. December is a month when you can really notice these differences. Here’s everything you need to know about the weather in Vietnam in December and some great places you should visit.
Weather in Vietnam in December: Complete Guide for Travelers
What season is it in Vietnam in December?
The weather in Vietnam in December is usually drier, with temperatures varying depending on the region. The Northern region has slightly cold weather, at around 18°C. In contrast, the Central region is warm (23°C) and the Southern region is hot (26°C). There is little rain during this time in the North and South, and even less in the Central region. Therefore, the end of December is an ideal time for travelers to start their journey.
Weather in December in different regions of Vietnam
As mentioned, the climate in Vietnam in December varies by region.
Weather in December in North Vietnam
When visiting Northern Vietnam, you will have the chance to experience winter that you cannot find in the Central and Southern regions.
The average temperature ranges around 18°C and can drop to 12°C in mountainous areas like Sapa.
Although this is the driest month of the year, visitors may still encounter days with fog or drizzle. Generally, snow is rare in Vietnam, but you may still expect to see it in mountainous areas on the coldest days.
With low chances of rainfall in December, you can enjoy visiting many places like Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Hai Phong. If you prefer cooler weather, Sapa is the perfect destination. Don’t forget to check the specific temperatures of the places you plan to visit before starting your journey.
Read more: A year of weather in Hanoi
In December, it’s chilly in the Northern part of Vietnam
Weather in December in Central Vietnam
In Central Vietnam, December is part of the rainy season, so you can expect rain in the first half of the month. In the second half, there are more sunny days, with temperatures around 22-24°C (72-75°F).
While the beaches aren’t the best places to visit this time of year, it’s still a good idea to visit Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. These cities are peaceful and beautiful in the cool weather. December is less crowded than summer, so you can enjoy a quieter and more relaxing experience.
Weather in December In South Vietnam
In South Vietnam, the temperature in December changes a lot between day and night. During the day, it’s around 30-32°C (86-90°F), but it can drop to 22°C (72°F) at night.
The weather is very pleasant, with lots of sunshine and clear skies. It’s not too hot or too humid, making it perfect for exploring Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta.
December is also a great time to visit beautiful beaches like Phu Quoc. There, you can enjoy nature, delicious food, and excellent service in top hotels and resorts.
Read more: What should Expat wear as a guest at a wedding in Vietnam?
What to Wear in Vietnam in December
Make sure to check the weather of the place you’re visiting before you pack your clothes
Since the temperature in Vietnam varies in different areas, you need different types of clothes for each region:
- North Vietnam: You’ll need warm clothes like long-sleeved shirts, pants, and coats. On the coldest days or in the mountains, wear boots, gloves, scarves, and warmer jackets.
- Central Vietnam: Wear lightweight and breathable clothes during the day. In the evening, bring a coat or jacket to stay warm.
- South Vietnam: Pack your summer clothes. T-shirts, short-sleeved shirts, flip-flops, and sunglasses are perfect for this region.
FAQs
Is December a good time to go to Vietnam?
December is a great time to visit Vietnam if you’re looking for warm, dry weather and a chance to experience the festive atmosphere. Just be sure to do your research and book your travel arrangements in advance, especially if you’re planning to travel during the holidays.
How hot is Vietnam in December?
Vietnam’s weather in December varies significantly depending on the region you visit. Here’s a quick recap:
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc Island, Nha Trang): This region enjoys warm weather with average temperatures around 26°C (79°F). It’s the hottest part of Vietnam in December, with sunshine and minimal rain – perfect for beach activities.
- Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue): Central Vietnam experiences pleasant temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F). This is comfortable warmth, neither hot nor cold.
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): The weather in Northern Vietnam is mild in December, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). It can be chilly, especially in the evenings and mornings, so pack layers.
Is Hanoi cold in December?
Hanoi can be considered cold in December compared to other months of the year. The average temperature in Hanoi in December is around 16°C (60°F), with highs of around 21°C (70°F) and lows of around 10°C (50°F). It can be quite chilly in the evenings and mornings, so be sure to pack warm clothes if you’re planning to visit during this time.
Read more: Traditional Breakfast Foods in Vietnam
In summary, December is a wonderful time to explore Vietnam’s beaches and mountains. If you’re thinking about visiting Vietnam, December is a great choice! VTJ hopes this guide to Vietnam’s weather has helped you decide when to visit and make the most of your trip.
Related Posts
