If you’re planning a trip to Hoi An during Christmas, you’ll land right in the middle of mild, comfortable weather and a festive atmosphere. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 20°C to 23°C, and evenings cool off just enough to make a lantern-lit stroll feel perfect.
December still brings some rain, but it’s a lot lighter than earlier in the rainy season. You can wander the town without worrying about heavy downpours.
Humidity often hits 90%, but with the cooler air, it doesn’t feel too overwhelming. You’ll get about 5 to 6 hours of sunshine each day, so there’s plenty of time to explore before the evening celebrations start.
Seasonal decorations, local events, and the town’s traditional charm all come together to make Christmas in Hoi An feel both unique and genuinely welcoming.
Whether you’re strolling the Ancient Town, joining local festivities, or just soaking up the mild climate, Christmas in Hoi An makes it easy to experience the city at its best.
Overview of December Weather in Hoi An
December brings cooler temperatures, frequent rainfall, and high humidity to Hoi An. Days feel mild compared to the summer months, with shorter bursts of sunshine and a damp atmosphere, but it’s still comfortable for travel and exploration.
General Climate Conditions
December weather usually stays mild, with average daytime highs around 22–23°C (72–73°F) and lows near 19–20°C (66–68°F). It’s one of the cooler months, but honestly, it rarely feels cold.
Rain is common, with about 21 rainy days and an average of 223 mm of precipitation. Showers are frequent, but they’re usually scattered, not endless.
Humidity hovers close to 89%, making the air feel heavy at times. Still, you get about 5–6 hours of sunshine daily, which is enough for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Daylight lasts about 11 hours. That’s plenty of time to check out the Old Town, hit the beaches, or explore the countryside before evening rolls in.
Comparison to Other Months
December feels a bit cooler and less rainy than November. November’s rainfall can top 370 mm, but December drops to about 223 mm. That’s a sign the rainy season is easing up.
Compared to January, December’s weather is pretty similar. January sees just a slight dip in temperature, with highs around 22.5°C, and rainfall drops further to about 125 mm.
In summer—June, July, August—temperatures shoot above 30°C and the sun gets intense. December, in contrast, feels way more comfortable for wandering the Old Town or browsing outdoor markets.
The cooler air and less rain make December a much better time than the peak monsoon months of October and early November.
Seasonal Changes
Hoi An really has two main seasons: the rainy season from September to November and the dry season from February to August. December sits right at the end of the rainy stretch.
Showers still happen, but you’ll notice a big drop in heavy downpours compared to October or early November. Flooding is less of a worry, and the skies start to clear more often.
Humidity remains high, but you can feel the weather turning drier as January and February approach. The cooler air is a welcome change from the hot, sticky summer.
December’s a bit of a transition month, so you get the festive holiday energy plus a sneak peek at the clearer skies of the dry season.
Temperature Patterns During Christmas
December weather in Hoi An feels mild, with cooler evenings. Daytime temperatures are just right for walking the Old Town, while nights might have you reaching for a light jacket.
Average Highs and Lows
Around Christmas, the average high temperature ranges from 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F). Sightseeing is easy without the summer’s intense heat.
Average lows land around 18°C to 20°C (64°F to 68°F). That’s typical for December in central Vietnam and hints at the shift from rainy to drier months.
Some days dip a bit lower, especially if it’s cloudy or rainy. It’s never “cold” by most standards, but the difference between day and night can feel noticeable.
Here’s a quick look:
| Time of Day | Average °C | Average °F |
|---|---|---|
| High | 24–27°C | 75–81°F |
| Low | 18–20°C | 64–68°F |
Christmas is one of the most comfortable times to explore Hoi An—no extreme heat or stifling humidity.
Daytime and Nighttime Variations
Daytime in December often feels pleasantly cool. With highs in the mid-20s °C, you can walk, cycle, or hop on a boat without breaking a sweat. Sunshine averages about 6–7 hours a day, though clouds and light showers pop up.
At night, the temperature drops by 5–7°C compared to daytime. Evenings feel crisp, especially near the river or coast. A light sweater or jacket comes in handy.
Humidity stays up, around 80–85%, so nights can feel damper than you’d expect. Still, the cooler air is a refreshing break from the hotter months.
Go for layers—light shirts for the day, something warmer for when the sun disappears.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels in December
December brings a mix of steady rainfall and high humidity. Expect wet conditions at times, but you’ll also get breaks of sunshine. These weather swings shape daily life and can affect how you plan your days.
Average Rainfall in December
December’s average rainfall falls between 200 mm and 350 mm, depending on the year and who’s measuring. It’s definitely one of the wetter months in Hoi An.
Rain usually arrives in heavy bursts, not as a constant drizzle. Low-lying streets, especially near the river, can flood quickly. Usually, water drains within a day or two.
December generally sees less rain than November, but you’re still smack in the rainy season. Rain gear is a must if you’re planning to explore outdoors.
A poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket beats an umbrella, since sudden downpours and wind are common. Good footwear for wet conditions will save you a lot of hassle.
Rainy Days Frequency
You’ll see 5 to 18 rainy days in December, though it really depends on the year. Some years are wetter, some drier.
Rain tends to fall in the late afternoon or evening, so mornings are often your best bet for sightseeing. Plan indoor activities later in the day.
Hoi An’s showers are shorter but heavier than the drawn-out drizzles up north. Roads get slick, so take care if you’re on a motorbike.
If you’re in town for Christmas, expect at least a few rainy days. Still, you’ll likely get some clear skies too—perfect for enjoying the lantern-lit streets and eating outside.
Humidity Trends
Humidity sits high in December—usually between 84% and 89%. The air feels warmer than the thermometer says, with temperatures averaging 20°C to 26°C.
Walking long distances in high humidity can be tiring. Light, breathable clothes help a lot during the day.
Evenings are still humid, just a bit cooler. Most hotels and restaurants have air conditioning, so you’ll get some relief.
While the humidity is up there, it’s not as oppressive as October or November. December is more manageable for sightseeing if you pace yourself and drink plenty of water.
Daylight and Sunshine Hours
December means shorter days and fewer hours of sunshine than you’d get mid-year. The balance between daylight and actual sunshine really shapes your time outdoors.
Average Daylight in December
Hoi An gets about 11.2 hours of daylight per day in December. That’s the shortest stretch of the year—June gets over 13 hours.
You’ll notice the shorter days, but there’s still enough time to see the sights, browse markets, or hit the beach. Shops and attractions adjust to the season, so you won’t feel rushed.
Daylight hours stay pretty steady all month, so you don’t need to worry about sudden changes in available light.
Sunshine Duration
Even though daylight lasts 11 hours, you’ll see about 105 hours of sunshine for the month—so roughly 3 to 4 hours of direct sunshine per day.
Cloud cover and rain keep sunshine hours low, since December is still rainy season. You might see gray skies for much of the day, even if it doesn’t rain.
Compared to the dry season, when sunshine can hit 8–10 hours daily, December feels dimmer. But honestly, the softer light is often nicer for walking or cycling around town.
Sunrise and Sunset Times
In December, the sun rises around 6:05 AM and sets close to 5:17 PM. These times barely change all month, so your daily rhythm stays pretty steady.
Evenings arrive early, and the streets light up with lanterns and festive decorations. If you want to do things outside, start earlier to make the most of daylight.
This predictable sunrise and sunset schedule makes it simple to plan photos, boat rides, or market trips. You don’t have to worry about sudden shifts.
Christmas Atmosphere and Seasonal Events
Hoi An really leans into the Christmas season, with decorated streets, church services, and hotels offering themed activities. The mild winter weather makes outdoor events easy and lets you enjoy both local traditions and holiday celebrations.
Festive Decorations in Hoi An Ancient Town
In December, Hoi An Ancient Town lights up with lanterns and Christmas decorations. Streets feature strings of lights, decorated trees, and seasonal displays set up by shops, restaurants, and hotels.
Traditional lanterns mix with holiday décor, giving the town a unique vibe. You’ll find photo spots near the Japanese Covered Bridge and along the Thu Bon River, where decorations really stand out.
Hotels and cafes often add their own touches—small Christmas markets, nativity scenes, or themed menus. Decorations aren’t as over-the-top as in some Western cities, but they make the place feel warm and welcoming for everyone.
Local Christmas Celebrations
Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Vietnam, but Hoi An celebrates it with enthusiasm. Catholic churches around town hold Christmas Eve Mass, open to both locals and visitors. Services get crowded, and you might hear choirs singing in both Vietnamese and English.
Beyond religious events, you’ll find street performances, live music, and cultural shows leading up to New Year’s. Hotels and restaurants put on Christmas dinners, buffets, or themed parties.
The celebration style feels closer to New Year’s Eve, with lively streets, families gathering, and tourists joining in. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, and visitors are always welcome to take part.
Impact of Weather on Festivities
December in Hoi An feels pretty mild, with daytime temperatures hanging around 20–26°C (68–79°F). You can walk through the Ancient Town comfortably, even when the crowds pick up in the evenings. If you’re staying out late, you’ll probably want a light jacket—nights get a little cool.
Rainfall dips compared to the peak monsoon months, but you might still catch a short shower. Most events happen outdoors under covered spaces or indoors at hotels and restaurants, so a little rain usually doesn’t stop the fun.
You get to enjoy both daytime sightseeing and evening celebrations without sweating in the heat or getting drenched. This mix of pleasant weather and seasonal buzz makes Christmas a surprisingly good time to check out Hoi An.
Tips for Visiting Hoi An Around Christmas
Late December in Hoi An means mild days, cooler nights, and the chance of light rain. You can wander the Old Town, browse outdoor markets, and visit cultural sites with fewer crowds. Still, you’ll want to be ready for both dry and wet weather if you want to stay comfortable.
What to Pack for the Weather
Hoi An’s temperatures around Christmas usually fall between 19°C and 27°C (66°F to 81°F). The days feel just right, but nights can get chilly. Bring layers so you can switch things up easily, like:
- Light shirts and breathable fabrics for the daytime
- A sweater or light jacket for evenings
- Long pants for cooler nights and temple visits
Rain doesn’t show up as much as earlier in the season, but you could still get caught in a shower. Pack a compact umbrella or a light raincoat—they won’t weigh you down. For shoes, waterproof sandals or sturdy shoes with good grip work well on wet streets.
Humidity can still surprise you, so quick-dry clothing is a good call. Planning to walk or cycle a lot? Toss in a hat and some sunscreen, since the sun sometimes sneaks through even on cloudy days.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
December’s moderate weather makes walking and cycling around Hoi An a breeze. You can explore the Ancient Town, see the Japanese Covered Bridge, and wander lantern-lit streets without dealing with summer’s heat.
Short rain showers might pop up and mess with your plans. Just keep things flexible—you can always duck into a café or market until the rain moves on.
Day trips work well this time of year. My Son Sanctuary sits about an hour away, and cooler weather makes it easier to explore. Villages like Tra Que Vegetable Village and Thanh Ha Pottery Village also feel nicer in December, since you skip the peak heat.
Evenings feel festive, with Christmas decorations and lively markets all over town. Outdoor dining is a treat, though you might want to throw on a light jacket once the sun goes down.
Travel and Accommodation Advice
December counts as the off-peak season in Hoi An, so you’ll usually spot lower prices on hotels and flights compared to the packed summer months. If you want to stay near the Old Town, it’s still smart to book early.
Traffic and crowds thin out during this time, which makes sightseeing feel way more relaxed. You probably won’t get stuck in long lines at major attractions, and tours tend to run with smaller groups.
The weather can be a bit unpredictable. Try to keep your plans loose, so you can swap outdoor activities to drier days if needed. For getting around, bicycles work great for short trips, while private cars are handy for day tours, especially if it looks like rain.
Thinking about attending Christmas Eve or Christmas Day services? Make sure to check schedules ahead of time, since local churches and chapels might get pretty busy with both locals and visitors.