A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Vietnam in December

Vietnam is an incredibly diverse and beautiful country to visit all year round, but December is one of the best times to go. The weather is mild and comfortable, there are festive events happening across the country, and beach destinations become ideal in December after the rainy season has passed.

This travel guide provides everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Vietnam in December, including destinations to visit, activities, festivals, cuisine, transportation, accommodation, budget tips, and safety information. With proper preparation, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Vietnam this December!

Weather in Vietnam in December

December falls during the dry season in most of Vietnam, bringing cooler and more comfortable temperatures than the hot, humid summers. The average highs are around 25°C/77°F in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with pleasant evenings around 17-20°C/63-68°F. Northern Vietnam can get chilly at night, occasionally dropping below 10°C/50°F.

The weather is generally sunny and dry across Vietnam, with very little rain during December. However, the north and central regions can see some overcast days and the occasional light drizzle. Humidity levels are comfortable, around 65-75%.

Pack layers, including some warmer clothes for chilly evenings, especially if visiting northern Vietnam. Light rain jackets are handy too. The sunny, dry days are perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities across the country.

Top Destinations to Visit in Vietnam in December

Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam’s largest and most energizing city has pleasant weather in December.

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in this vibrant city, from exploring its historical landmarks to sampling its delicious street food. Here are a few of the top destinations to visit in Ho Chi Minh City:

• War Remnants Museum: This museum is a sobering reminder of the Vietnam War. It houses exhibits on the war’s impact on Vietnam, including photos, artifacts, and military equipment.
• Cu Chi Tunnels: These underground tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Visitors can crawl through the tunnels to get a sense of what it was like for the Viet Cong soldiers who lived and fought in them.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral was built in the late 19th century. It is a popular tourist destination and a working Catholic church.
• Central Post Office: This French colonial building is a popular spot for taking photos. It is also a working post office, so you can send postcards home from Vietnam.
• Ben Thanh Market: This bustling market is a great place to souvenirs, food, and other goods. Be sure to bargain with the vendors!
• Independence Palace: This palace was the residence of the President of South Vietnam from 1963 to 1975. It is now a museum and a popular tourist destination.
• Saigon Opera House: This beautiful opera house was built in the early 20th century. It is still used for performances today, and visitors can take a tour of the theater.
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: This pedestrian-only street is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the city’s atmosphere. It is also home to a number of shops and restaurants.

These are just a few of the many great destinations to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Ho Chi Minh City is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Hanoi

December is a lovely time to explore Vietnam’s charming capital city.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city steeped in history and culture. It’s a fascinating place to explore, with its bustling Old Quarter, serene temples, and French colonial architecture. Here are some of the best destinations to visit in Hanoi:

1. Hoan Kiem Lake Hoan Kiem Lake is a picturesque lake in the heart of Hanoi. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it’s a great place to go for a walk, take a boat ride, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. In the middle of the lake is Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to a legendary tortoise.

2. Hanoi Old Quarter  Hanoi Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets, shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to wander around and get lost in the atmosphere of the city. Be sure to try some of the local street food, like pho or banh mi.

3. Temple of Literature The Temple of Literature is a Confucian temple that was built in 1070. It’s the oldest university in Vietnam, and it’s a beautiful complex with gardens, pavilions, and temples.

4. Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” was a prison used by the French and North Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. It’s now a museum, and it’s a sobering reminder of the horrors of war.

5. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a fascinating museum that showcases the cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. It’s a great place to learn about the diversity of Vietnamese culture.

6. Ho Chi Minh MausoleumHo Chi Minh Mausoleum is the resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam. It’s a popular tourist destination, and it’s a great place to learn about Vietnamese history.

7. One Pillar Pagoda One Pillar Pagoda is a unique Buddhist temple that was built in the 11th century. It’s a beautiful and serene place, and it’s a popular spot for taking photos.

8. Thang Long Imperial Citadel The Thang Long Imperial Citadel is the site of the ancient imperial palace of Vietnam. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s a fascinating place to learn about Vietnamese history.

9. Hanoi Opera House The Hanoi Opera House is a beautiful opera house that was built in the early 20th century. It’s a popular spot for concerts and performances, and it’s a great place to see a show if you’re visiting Hanoi.

10. Train Street Train Street is a narrow street in Hanoi that runs parallel to a railway track. It’s a popular spot for tourists to take photos, and it’s a unique place to experience Hanoi’s vibrant culture.

Sapa

Trekking in the terraced rice fields and villages around Sapa is incredible in December.

Sapa is a town in the Lao Cai Province, in the Northwest highlands of Vietnam. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning scenery, hill tribes, and cool climate. Here are some of the top destinations to visit in Sapa:

• Fansipan: Fansipan is the highest mountain in Indochina, reaching an elevation of 3,143 meters (10,312 ft). There are a number of ways to reach the summit, including hiking, trekking, and taking the cable car.
• Muong Hoa Valley: Muong Hoa Valley is a beautiful valley located just outside of Sapa. It is home to a number of rice paddies, villages, and waterfalls.
• Cat Cat Village: Cat Cat Village is a Hmong village located about 3 kilometers from Sapa. Visitors can learn about Hmong culture and see traditional handicrafts.
• Ta Phin Village: Ta Phin Village is a Red Dao village located about 12 kilometers from Sapa. Visitors can see traditional Red Dao houses and learn about their customs.
• Silver Waterfall: Silver Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located about 15 kilometers from Sapa. It is a popular spot for swimming and photography.
• Ham Rong Mountain: Ham Rong Mountain is a mountain located near Sapa. It is home to a number of gardens, flowers, and a cave.
• Sapa Market: Sapa Market is a market located in the center of Sapa. It is a great place to buy souvenirs, food, and other goods.
• Tram Ton Pass: Tram Ton Pass is a mountain pass located about 40 kilometers from Sapa. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Can Cau Market: Can Cau Market is a weekly market held on Saturdays in Bac Ha district. It is a great place to see Hmong, Red Dao, and other ethnic minority people from the surrounding area.

These are just a few of the many destinations to visit in Sapa. With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and cool climate, Sapa is a great place to visit any time of year.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. It is located in the Gulf of Tonkin, in Quang Ninh Province, and is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. The bay is also home to a number of caves, beaches, and floating villages.

Here are some of the most popular destinations to visit in Halong Bay:

• Sung Sot Cave: This is the largest cave in Halong Bay and is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can climb to the top of the cave for stunning views of the bay.
• Ti Top Island: This island is home to a number of beaches, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can also go swimming, sunbathing, or hiking on the island.
• Cua Van Floating Village: This village is home to a number of families who live on traditional wooden boats. Visitors can take a boat tour of the village and learn about the lives of the villagers.
• Dau Go Cave: This cave is known for its wooden stakes that were used to defend the bay against pirates. Visitors can climb through the cave and see the remains of the stakes.
• Bai Tu Long Bay: This bay is located just to the east of Halong Bay and is known for its quieter and more secluded atmosphere. Visitors can go kayaking, swimming, or fishing in the bay.

Cruising amongst the emerald waters and limestone islets of Halong Bay is breathtaking any time of year. December brings sunny, dry weather perfect for boating, kayaking, swimming, and admiring the views.

Phu Quoc Island

Vietnam’s top beach destination boasts gorgeous stretches of sand and idyllic island life. December is peak season with sunny, dry weather ideal for relaxing by the sea, snorkeling, diving, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Top destinations to visit in Phu Quoc Island:

• Long Beach: This is the most popular beach on Phu Quoc Island, and for good reason. It is a long, white-sand beach with clear blue water. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops along the beach, as well as a number of water sports activities available.
• Sao Beach: This is another beautiful beach on Phu Quoc Island, but it is less crowded than Long Beach. It is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. There are also a number of restaurants and bars on the beach.
• An Thoi Islands: These are a group of small islands off the coast of Phu Quoc Island. They are a great place to go snorkeling, diving, or just relax on the beach.
• Phu Quoc Prison: This was a prison used by the French and Americans during the Vietnam War. It is now a museum, and visitors can tour the cells and learn about the history of the prison.
• Fish sauce barrel house: Phu Quoc is famous for its fish sauce, and the best place to learn about how it is made is at a fish sauce barrel house. Visitors can see the process of making fish sauce, from the selection of fish to the bottling of the finished product.
• Phu Quoc pepper garden: Phu Quoc is also famous for its black pepper. Visitors can take a tour of a pepper garden and learn about how the pepper is grown and harvested.
• Pearl culture village: Phu Quoc is a major producer of pearls, and visitors can learn about the pearl culture process at a pearl culture village. Visitors can see how pearls are grown, from the oysters to the final product.
• Dinh Cau Temple: This is a Buddhist temple located on the southern tip of Phu Quoc Island. The temple is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it offers stunning views of the ocean.
• Phu Quoc Night Market: This is a great place to find souvenirs, food, and drinks. The market is open from dusk until late at night, and it is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
• Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc: This is a large amusement park with a variety of rides, attractions, and shows. It is a great place to spend a day with the family.
• Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc: This is a safari park where visitors can see animals from all over the world. The park also has a number of shows and attractions.

Hoi An

This charming historic town on the central coast has delightful weather in December. Wander the ancient streets, visit traditional workshops, and dine by candlelight along the river. Nearby beaches are great too.

There are many wonderful places to visit in Hoi An, but here are a few of the most popular and highly-rated destinations:

1. Hoi An Ancient Town: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for any visitor to Hoi An. The ancient town is a beautifully preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese town, with its yellow-walled houses, wooden bridges, and colorful lanterns. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the narrow streets, exploring the many shops and temples, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

2. Japanese Covered Bridge:  This iconic bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Hoi An. It was built by Japanese merchants in the 16th century and is a popular spot for photographers. Visitors can cross the bridge and take in the views of the Thu Bon River, or simply admire its intricate wooden architecture.

3. My Son Sanctuary:  This ancient Cham ruins complex is located about 15 km from Hoi An. My Son was once the capital of the Champa Kingdom, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the ruins of temples, towers, and other structures, and learn about the history and culture of the Cham people.

4. An Bang Beach: This beautiful beach is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Hoi An. The beach is lined with palm trees and has soft, white sand. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, surf, or simply enjoy the views.

5. Cam Thanh Coconut Village: This village is located on the Thu Bon River, just a short boat ride from Hoi An. Visitors can take a boat tour through the village and learn about the traditional way of life of the local people. They can also try their hand at rowing a basket boat, a traditional Vietnamese boat.

6. Thanh Ha Pottery Village: This village is located about 3 km from Hoi An. Visitors can watch the local potters at work and learn about the traditional pottery-making process. They can also purchase pottery as souvenirs.

7. Tra Que Vegetable Village: This village is located about 5 km from Hoi An. Visitors can take a bicycle tour through the village and learn about the traditional farming methods used to grow the village’s vegetables. They can also enjoy a lunch made with the fresh vegetables.

8. Cua Dai Beach: This beach is located about 4 km from Hoi An. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is also home to a number of restaurants and bars.

9. Kim Bong Carpentry Village: This village is located about 5 km from Hoi An. Visitors can watch the local carpenters at work and learn about the traditional woodworking techniques used to make furniture and other objects. They can also purchase furniture as souvenirs.

10. Cam An Beach: This beach is located about 4 km from Hoi An. It is a less crowded and more peaceful alternative to Cua Dai Beach. The beach is known for its soft sand and beautiful sunsets.

Festivals and Events in Vietnam in December

Christmas Festivities

Christmas is a major celebration across Vietnam, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Streets are decorated with lights, trees, and Santas, malls and hotels have festive displays, and restaurants serve special holiday meals.

Dalat Flower Festival

Held annually from late December to early January, this colorful festival in Dalat includes flower-themed exhibitions, competitions, cultural performances and parades showcasing the region’s blooms.

Nha Trang Sea Festival

This lively beachside festival in early December includes a carnival, street food stalls, cultural performances, competitions and fireworks in Nha Trang.

Hue Festival

Biennial cultural festival in the former imperial city of Hue, featuring music, dance, theatre, art, and historical reenactments. Held in odd-numbered years in mid-December.

Christmas Concerts

Major cities host special concerts and musical performances leading up to Christmas, including classical, choral, gospel shows, and more.

Best Beaches to Visit in Vietnam in December

December is an ideal time to visit Vietnam’s gorgeous beaches after the rainy season has ended. Sunny, dry weather prevails. Top beach destinations include:

• Phu Quoc – Clear waters, long stretches of sand, great for swimming and snorkeling.
• Nha Trang – Sweeping bay, white sand, with many hotels, bars and restaurants.
• Mui Ne – Picturesque fishing village with red sand dunes and great kitesurfing.
• Lang Co – A more secluded bay with palm-lined shores surrounded by mountains.
• Cat Ba Island – Charming island beach near Halong Bay, with hiking, sailing, and rock climbing.

Activities to Do in Vietnam in December

Pleasant December weather lends itself perfectly to these top activities:

• Motorbiking through scenic landscapes and small towns. Popular routes include the Hoi Van Pass and Hai Van Pass.
• Trekking through rice terraces in Sapa and Mu Cang Chai. Hike past waterfalls around Da Lat too.
• Kayaking in Halong Bay to reach hidden lagoons and grottos. Kayak through floating villages too.
• Cooking classes to learn traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi. Classes are available nationwide.
• Nightlife in buzzing cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy live music, bars, clubs, street food, and more.

Local Cuisine to Try in Vietnam in December

Vietnamese food is mouthwatering any time of year. Top dishes and drinks to try in December include:

• Pho – Fragrant beef or chicken noodle soup, especially warming in December.
• Banh mi – Baguette stuffed with meats, pâté, pickled veggies and chili. Grab as a snack.
• Bun cha – Grilled pork with noodles and herb salad. Popular street food.
• Hot pot – Meat, seafood and veggies cooked at the table in simmering broth, great for groups.
• Egg coffee – Sweet thick coffee with egg yolk whipped into meringue-like foam.
• Mulled wine – Warm spiced wine is great on chilly December evenings.

Transportation Options in Vietnam in December

• Flights connect major cities and gateways like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. VietJet and Vietnam Airlines offer domestic flights.
• Overnight trains link cities like Hanoi, Huế, and Ho Chi Minh City. Book private cabins in advance. Routes are scenic but slower.
• Buses provide budget connections between most destinations. Go with reputable companies like The Sinh Tourist. Travel times are long.
• Grab is the main ridesharing app, available in all major cities. Cheap and convenient way to get around.
• Motorbiking is popular for independent travelers. Provides flexibility to explore at your own pace. Get proper licenses.

Accommodation Options in Vietnam in December

Book lodging well in advance for December, which is peak tourism season. Options include:

• Mid-range hotels offer the best value, with central locations, good facilities and breakfast.
• Budget hostels have dorms and private rooms. Great for meeting other travelers.
• Homestays give a local experience when staying with Vietnamese families. Find them easily in Sapa.
• Luxury resorts on beaches or in the countryside provide pampering stays. Expect premium prices.
• Short-term apartment rentals through Airbnb are available in big cities. Allows you to live like a local.

Budget Tips for Traveling to Vietnam in December

• Fly budget airlines like VietJet or JetStar for domestic flights. Book early for deals.
• Stick to street food and simple restaurants. Markets and food stalls offer tasty dishes for very little.
• Take overnight trains and buses instead of flying between some destinations. Much more affordable.
• Seek out free activities like wandering around the Old Quarter in Hanoi, people-watching at cafes, or hanging out on the beach.
• Stay in dorm rooms at hostels, or grab hotel deals online in advance. Check sites like Booking.com.

Tips to apply Visa to Vietnam in December

• Plan ahead. Even though the Vietnam e-visa is a relatively quick and easy process, it’s always best to plan ahead and apply for your visa at least two weeks before your trip. This will give you enough time to resolve any issues that may arise with your application.
• Check the requirements. Make sure you have all of the required documents before you start your application. This includes a valid passport, a digital passport photo, and a credit or debit card to pay the visa fee.
• Be accurate. When filling out your application, be sure to enter all of your information accurately and completely. Any errors could delay the processing of your visa.
• Review your application carefully. Before submitting your application, be sure to review it carefully to make sure there are no errors.
• Print out your approval letter. Once your visa is approved, print out the approval letter and bring it with you to Vietnam. You will need it to show immigration officials when you arrive.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful when applying for a visa to Vietnam in December:

• Be aware of the peak travel season. December is a popular time to visit Vietnam, so it’s important to be aware of the peak travel season. If you are traveling during this time, it’s best to apply for your visa early to avoid any delays.
• Consider using a Trusted Vietnam visa service. If you are having trouble applying for your visa on your own, you may want to consider using a visa service. Visa services can help you with the application process and ensure that your visa is processed correctly.
• Be prepared for delays. Even though the Vietnam e-visa is a relatively quick process, there is always the possibility of delays. Be prepared to wait a few days for your visa to be processed, especially if you are applying during the peak travel season.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Vietnam in December

• Exercise extra caution on roads. Traffic can be chaotic, and motorbiking requires caution.
• Avoid scamming – say no to overly friendly strangers inviting you to places, especially around tourist sites.
• Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach while swimming. Use your hotel safe.
• Drink only bottled water. Ice at cheap restaurants may be made with tap water.
• Get travel insurance covering medical emergencies. Vietnam has excellent hospitals but fees add up quickly.
• Respect local customs around dress – cover-up at temples, mosques, and rural areas. Remove shoes before entering homes and pagodas.
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