Beat the heat by visiting Saigon in December. With relatively cooler temperatures and much less rain, it’s the perfect time to see one of Vietnam’s most vibrant cities.
Climate Averages in Ho Chi Minh in December
December is the coldest month of the year in Ho Chi Minh City. While northern Vietnam is facing cold temperatures during this time of year, Ho Chi Minh City is enjoying warm sunshine and minimal precipitation.
Although December is the coldest month, temperatures remain warm and comfortable, ranging from a low of 72°F (22.2°C) to a high of 87°F (30.6°C). Sunlight hours continue to increase as rain clouds become less frequent, with an average of 7.3 hours of direct sunlight projected over the city’s 11.5 hour-long days. Humidity decreases to an average of 77%, meaning that the weather is far more pleasant and comfortable.
Ho Chi Minh City receives a significant decrease in rainfall in December, with an average of 45.7 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation falling over 6.7 rainfall days. Typhoons have been known to hit the city during this time, so keep your eye on the weather.
| December Weather | |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 72-87°F (22.2-30.6°C) |
| Precipitation | 45.7 mm (1.8 in) |
| Humidity | 77% |
| Rainfall | 6.7 days |
| Daylight | 11.5 hr |
| Sunlight | 7.3 hr |
Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh in December
December is a fun and festive time of year as the Vietnamese celebrate Christmas and begin preparations for the upcoming Tet holiday in January.
Although Christmas is not recognized as an official holiday in Vietnam, locals still enjoy celebrating the Western holiday throughout Ho Chi Minh City. Instead of celebrating Christmas on December 25, the Vietnamese celebrate the holiday on December 24.
Visit Nguyen Hue and Bui Vien pedestrian streets to view the festive Christmas lights, pine trees and holiday decorations. Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown is another great place to visit during Christmastime, as streets are decorated in bright lights and many shops offer great discounts on ornaments and decorations.
The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most popular Christmas attractions in Ho Chi Minh City as the structure is decorated beautifully.
Many people will also celebrate Christmas at Landmark 81, which is the tallest building in all of Ho Chi Minh City. Hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls will offer deals during the holiday.
Tips for Visiting Ho Chi Minh in December
December is one of the best times of the year to visit Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy the warm sunshine, minimal rain, and the festive Christmas season.
The city is quite busy in December as it is one of the leading destinations for celebrating Christmas in Vietnam. Shopping centers will be busy, and many attractions in the city will be crowded around Christmastime. To avoid getting stuck in large crowds, consider visiting malls and attractions early in the day or as soon as they open.
Additionally, it can also become hectic in Ho Chi Minh City during this time of year as locals begin preparations for the upcoming Tet holiday in January. If you plan on traveling to Ho Chi Minh City during this time, be sure to book your flights and accommodations in advance.
It’s not necessary to bring a raincoat or umbrella with you in December as rains are infrequent and do not last very long. Instead, bring lightweight linen pants, cotton dresses, skirts, and shorts to make the most of the sunshine. Also, be sure to wear a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection to protect yourself from the intense sunlight.
Go To November Weather | January Weather
Bien Hoa, Vietnam
