If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi around Christmas, get ready for one of the coolest stretches of the year in northern Vietnam. Daytime temperatures usually hover between 15°C and 20°C, while nights can dip closer to 10°C. It feels crisp, but not freezing. The weather tends to stay dry, so you can wander the city’s streets without stressing about rain.
This cooler climate gives Hanoi a vibe that’s totally different from the steamy tropics down south. Winter air in Hanoi adds a refreshing twist to exploring the Old Quarter, visiting temples, or slurping hot pho in a cozy shop.
The festive decorations pop up everywhere, and the city buzzes with energy during Christmas. It’s a fun cultural layer that makes December special.
Knowing what to expect from the weather really helps with packing and planning your days. The mild sunshine, steady conditions, and good visibility make December one of the most enjoyable times to dive into Hanoi’s history, food, and traditions.
Typical December Weather in Hanoi
December kicks off winter in Hanoi with cooler air, shorter days, and some noticeable changes in humidity and rainfall. Mornings feel crisp, afternoons stay comfortable, and evenings might surprise you with a chill if you’re not used to cooler climates.
Average Temperatures and Daily Ranges
In December, Hanoi’s temperatures usually land between 15°C (59°F) and 22°C (72°F). The average is about 18°C (65°F), so the city feels cool but not icy.
Daytime highs make sightseeing pleasant, but you’ll probably want a sweater or light jacket for mornings and evenings. Compared to November, you’ll notice a drop of around 4–5°C as winter settles in.
Cold spells do show up, especially when winds blow in from the north. Sometimes, lows can reach 10°C (50°F), which feels colder than you might expect because of the damp air and lack of indoor heating.
If you’re sensitive to cold, layering will keep you comfortable all day.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
December stays dry in Hanoi. Average rainfall is just 16 mm, and you might only see one rainy day all month.
Rain, when it comes, is usually light and short-lived—no big storms. This makes outdoor plans easy to keep without worrying about the weather.
The dry spell means clearer skies and more sunshine. Hanoi gets about 6–7 hours of sunshine each day in December. Days are shorter, with sunset around 5:30 PM.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity in December hovers around 68%. That’s lower than in the wet months, but you’ll still feel it.
The air doesn’t feel sticky like in summer, so walking tours and browsing outdoor markets are more comfortable. Still, the combo of cool temps and humidity can make the air feel damp, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Locals call it “wet cold,” and it’s a different kind of chill compared to dry winters elsewhere.
Most homes and shops don’t have indoor heating in Hanoi, so you might find indoor spaces a bit chilly. Bring warm layers, maybe a scarf or gloves, to stay cozy both inside and out.
Daylight, Sunshine, and UV Index
In December, Hanoi’s days get shorter, sunshine is a bit less predictable, and the sun’s strength drops compared to summer. You’ll notice cooler light, manageable humidity, and a UV level that still deserves a little respect.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
Around Christmas, Hanoi gets about 10 hours and 50 minutes of daylight. The sun rises close to 6:30 AM and sets around 5:20 PM. These times shift a little as the month goes on.
Compared to the nearly 13-hour days in spring and summer, December feels a bit short and dim. Early sunsets mean evenings come on quickly, so it’s smarter to plan outdoor activities earlier.
If you like quiet walks or sightseeing, mornings are cool and less crowded. The later sunrise lets you ease into your day without rushing.
Average Sunshine Hours
December brings more sunshine than the cloudy summer months. Expect 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day, adding up to about 213 hours for the month.
That’s a big jump from July and August, when rain and thick clouds block out the sun.
You’ll get about a 45% chance of sunny days in December. The rest of the time, skies might be partly cloudy or just overcast.
This balance makes for good sightseeing weather. You can check out Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter without the harsh glare of midsummer.
Photographers love this time, too—the light is softer and really brings out Hanoi’s character.
UV Index and Sun Protection
The UV index in Hanoi averages around 6 to 7 in December, which counts as high. It’s not as intense as summer, but you can still burn in about 25 minutes if you skip protection.
Go for SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a light hat if you’ll be out for a while. The sun is strongest between 11 AM and 2 PM.
From March to September, the index climbs even higher, so December feels mild in comparison. Still, the cool air can trick you into forgetting the sun’s strength, so a little caution goes a long way.
Wind and Visibility Conditions
December in Hanoi brings steady, mild winds and clear views. The air feels cooler and drier than in summer, which makes exploring outside much nicer and cuts down on heavy haze.
Average Wind Speeds
Winds blow lightly to moderately in December, usually around 2.5–3.0 m/s (about 9–11 km/h). That’s enough to keep the air fresh without being bothersome.
Daytime breezes feel a bit stronger than at night. After sunset, things calm down as the land cools.
Storms and gusty winds aren’t really on the radar—typhoon season wraps up well before winter.
If you’re walking in the Old Quarter or hopping on a cyclo, the wind won’t mess with your plans. Light jackets are fine. Out by West Lake, the breeze picks up a little, but it’s still pleasant for sightseeing.
Visibility and Air Quality
December usually brings good visibility throughout Hanoi. Skies might be overcast, but the dry weather keeps humidity down and cuts back on the thick haze you see in hotter months.
Humidity averages 65–70%, which feels comfortable and helps keep the air clear.
Rain is rare, with just a few light showers all month. This means travel plans go smoothly and fog doesn’t get in the way much.
Most days, you can see for several kilometers—great for walking tours or longer drives.
Air quality in winter often improves compared to late autumn. Cooler, drier air helps clear out pollutants better than the muggy summer heat.
Traffic and city life still affect air quality, but you’ll usually breathe easier in December.
If you’re sensitive to pollution, mornings and evenings feel fresher. Those are good times to check out Hanoi’s landmarks with clearer views and easier breathing.
How Hanoi’s December Weather Compares to Other Vietnamese Destinations
December weather in Vietnam changes a lot depending on where you go. Hanoi stays cool and dry, but other regions can be warmer, wetter, or even colder, so you’ll get very different travel vibes.
Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Vietnam
In Ho Chi Minh City, December feels nothing like Hanoi. Instead of chilly air, you get warm tropical weather with daytime highs around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Nights stay mild, often above 22°C, so you really don’t need a jacket.
Rain is rare since December is dry season. You’ll see clear skies, lower humidity than summer, and plenty of sunshine.
Outdoor fun, from the Mekong Delta to bustling markets, feels easy and relaxed.
If you’re into hot weather and loads of sun, southern Vietnam is the opposite of Hanoi’s cool climate. Pack light clothes, sunscreen, and maybe a hat for those long days outside.
Central Vietnam: Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Dalat
Central Vietnam in December? It’s a mixed bag. Hoi An and Nha Trang sometimes hang onto the rainy season, with showers and cloudy days. Highs hit 23–26°C, but rain might cut into your beach time.
Flooding isn’t common, but it can happen, especially in Hoi An’s old town.
Dalat, up in the Central Highlands, gets much cooler. Temperatures range from 12–20°C, with crisp mornings and nights. The air is drier than on the coast, and you’ll want a sweater after dark.
If you’re heading this way, bring a rain jacket for the coast and warmer clothes for Dalat’s altitude.
Northern Destinations: Sapa and Halong Bay
Up north, Sapa and Halong Bay get even colder than Hanoi. Sapa often drops to 5–15°C in December, and nights can brush up against freezing. The air is dry, but fog and mist show up a lot, hiding mountain views.
Halong Bay stays milder, with highs around 16–20°C. The cool air is great for boat trips, though mornings might feel damp.
Fog sometimes cuts visibility, but winter cruises are usually reliable since heavy rain is rare.
If you love crisp mountain air, Sapa offers something different. For Halong Bay, pack layers for boat rides, especially if you’re staying overnight.
Island Getaways: Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc Island has some of the best December weather in Vietnam. By late fall, the rainy season is over, so December brings warm, sunny days with highs around 28–30°C and barely any rain.
The sea stays calm, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips.
Humidity drops compared to summer, and evenings are warm. You’ll only need light clothing here—no jackets required.
If you want a beach break in Vietnam’s winter, Phu Quoc is your best bet. Its dry, sunny climate stands in sharp contrast to Hanoi’s cool, dry winter.
Seasonal Activities and Local Experiences
In December, Hanoi’s cool, dry weather makes walking, sightseeing, and festive outings way more comfortable. The city mixes holiday decorations with traditional Vietnamese culture, so you get both seasonal charm and a sense of history.
Christmas and Festive Events
Christmas isn’t an official holiday in Vietnam, but Hanoi gets into the spirit with plenty of decorations and gatherings. Streets and malls show off Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments, especially in the Old Quarter.
Hang Ma Street bursts with shops selling tinsel, lanterns, and all sorts of festive goods. It’s especially lively in December, and you’ll soak up the holiday atmosphere just by strolling through.
Public squares and hotels sometimes host concerts, markets, or themed dinners. These events aren’t religious—they’re more about having fun and bringing people together.
If you’re into photography, the colorful lights make for great shots.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
The mild daytime temperatures of 15°C to 20°C let you spend hours outside without getting uncomfortable. Walking the Old Quarter by foot or bike is a breeze, with none of the sweaty summer heat.
A walk around Hoan Kiem Lake is especially nice in December. The cooler air and occasional morning mist give it a calm vibe, and you’ll spot locals doing tai chi or chatting in small groups.
Cycling along the Red River or out to nearby villages is popular, too. Dry weather means you won’t run into muddy paths or downpours.
If you prefer a slower pace, check out local markets for seasonal foods and handmade crafts.
Cultural Highlights: Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake
The Temple of Literature stands out as one of Hanoi’s most popular cultural sites, and it’s dedicated to Confucius. December’s cooler weather really makes it easier to wander through its courtyards and pavilions, since you don’t have to deal with the muggy heat that can make summer visits exhausting.
At Hoan Kiem Lake, you’ll spot Ngoc Son Temple sitting on a small island, which you can reach by crossing the iconic red bridge. Around the lake, the city sets up light displays and hosts lively gatherings in the evenings, especially during the holidays.
Both places let you feel Hanoi’s history and long-standing traditions up close. If you visit them in December, you get a nice mix of cultural discovery and festive city vibes—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Travel Tips for Visiting Hanoi at Christmas
December in Hanoi usually brings cool, dry weather, with daytime temperatures between 15°C and 20°C. Nights can get colder, so you’ll want to keep that in mind.
Crowds definitely grow as Christmas and New Year approach. Locals and travelers both join in the celebrations, so planning ahead really helps your trip go smoothly.
What to Pack for December Weather
Pack for mild days and chilly evenings. A light sweater or fleece is usually enough during the day, but you’ll want a warmer jacket, scarf, and closed shoes for nights when it can dip to 10°C.
December doesn’t bring much rain, but tossing a compact umbrella or light raincoat into your bag is smart in case of a quick shower. Comfortable shoes are a must, since exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter and markets really means walking a lot.
If you’re planning to visit places outside the city, like Sapa, bring heavier layers. Mountain areas in northern Vietnam can be surprisingly cold, especially compared to Hanoi. Packing in layers makes it easy to adjust as the weather changes throughout the day.
Accommodation and Booking Advice
December turns Hanoi into a busy travel season. Hotels, homestays, and popular tours often fill up weeks ahead, particularly around Christmas and New Year, so booking early is just common sense.
You’ll find everything from budget guesthouses in the Old Quarter to international hotels near Hoan Kiem Lake. Staying near the city center makes it much easier to walk to holiday events, markets, and cultural landmarks.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, you might like accommodations in Tay Ho (West Lake). That area feels calmer, with lakeside views and plenty of restaurants, but you’re still not far from the action. Always double-check if your room has heating, since some budget places can be a bit unreliable with that.
Health and Safety Considerations
Hanoi’s air quality often drops in winter. If you have any respiratory issues, you’ll want to pack a mask or air filter before heading outdoors.
Drink plenty of water, since the dry air can leave you feeling a bit uncomfortable.
Traffic gets wild during the holiday season. Try to use marked crosswalks, and honestly, keep your eyes peeled when crossing those busy intersections.
If you’re thinking about renting a motorbike, make sure you wear a decent helmet. Stick to the local rules—it’s not worth risking it.
Food hygiene in Hanoi is usually pretty good. I always go for busy street vendors since high turnover means fresher food.
Bring along some basic meds for colds or stomach issues, just in case. The sudden temperature swings and new foods can catch travelers off guard.
Travel insurance that covers medical care in Vietnam? Definitely a smart move.