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Hanoi Temperature in December: Hanoi Tours & Packing Tips
Hanoi Temperature December Ho Chi Minh City’s little sister city has a refreshing chill in its air in December, enshrouding itself in morning mist and golden winter sunsets. Hanoi Vietnam weather December is the time of year that lets you immerse yourself in a sense of the past to invigorate the future, especially when huddling over a steaming bowl of pho, weaving through lantern-strewn lanes, or quietly appreciating the loveliness of Hanoi winter. In this Hanoi travel guide, we’ll explain that day-to-night temperature shift, advise you on what to pack like a pro, and help you determine if this actually is the best time to visit Hanoi. Now we delve into the magic of a Hanoi December done right!
The charm of Hanoi Temperature December is its cold, dazzling daylight turning into freezing evening, and that’s why Hanoi winter is when things get magical!
Let’s break it down:
Time of Day
Temperature Range
Feel & Weather Experience
Morning – Afternoon
18°C – 22°C
Perfect for walking, light sun, cool breeze. Ideal for outdoor sightseeing, street food tours, and lakeside coffee breaks.
Evening – Night
12°C – 15°C (can dip below 10°C)
The temperature drops sharply. Combined with wind chill and humidity, it feels colder than it sounds especially after 8 PM. A scarf and proper jacket are must-haves.
Hanoi Temperature December (Source: incredibleasiajourneys)
Other Weather Elements in December
Rainfall: Minimal and Travel-Friendly
December and January are the driest months, with an average precipitation of 20-30mm. That means those plans to visit its historic cultural landmarks, sample its street food, or walk around Hoan Kiem Lake are pretty seldom spoiled by rain. In reality, many Hanoians believe it’s the best time to visit Hanoi for this very reason: fewer umbrellas, more memories!
Humidity: The Hidden Chill Factor
(You’d never know it from the numbers on your weather app. Humidity is in the 60-70% range, and that, of course, is what makes the cold feel deeper than it reads. The humidity hangs around in the morning that soaking both through to the bone, and sticks to your skin: a surprise to many (at least the first visit) of Hanoi temperature December.
Wind: A Northern Whisper That Bites
The wind in Hanoi in December usually is in the form of northerlies at around 10-15 km/h; not gale force, but it certainly punches a real chill into the air, particularly in the late afternoons and the evenings. Pack a wind-resistant jacket and something to cover your neck, you’ll be grateful on an evening cyclo ride through the Old Quarter.
Sunlight Hours: A Gloomy Beauty
Plan for about 4 hours of sunshine each day, if that. Hanoi skies in December are generally overcast, and in a vague, soft-gray way, they lend their filter to the city’s lakes and streets. It’s not beach weather a la Ho Chi Minh, but it’s a great opportunity for moody photography, romantic walks, and curling up in a cute coffee shop corner. For some, that restful gray is the poetic soul of Hanoi winter.
Fog & Air Quality: A Reality to Prepare For
Early morning may bring some light fog and a haze, particularly near lakes and low spots. It contributes to the air of romance when we think of Hanoi Vietnam weather December, but it also brings with it reduced air quality, especially near traffic congestion areas.
If you’re concerned about smog or traveling with kids, bring PM2. 5th-grade masks, steer clear of peak traffic hours, and perhaps visit indoor attractions such as museums or galleries in the morning. Most of the locals shift timings to go out after 9 AM in the morning when the mist clears up and the air becomes a bit clearer.
Fog & Air Quality (Source: reuters)
What to Pack for Hanoi in December (Local & Expert Tips)
Clothing: Dress in Strategic Layers
The single word that unlocks the secret to Hanoi temperature December is layers. The mornings are cool, the afternoons may be warm, and the evenings get downright chilly, so versatility is key.
Thermal innerwear: Thin but mighty! Keeps you warm without bulk.
Sweaters & light wool tops: Keep you warm during the day.
A good coat or padded jacket: A necessity for those evening strolls, especially with that northern wind.
Waterproof or windbreaker jacket: When it becomes chilly or you are caught in a sudden drizzle.
Closed-toe walking shoes + warm socks: Comfort comes first – Hanoi’s sidewalks should be explored on foot.
Skincare & Health Essentials: Protect Against the Cold + Pollution
Although it’s not so cold that it makes your fingers left to freeze off the bone, the combo of dry, humid chill and bad air can take a toll on your skin and health.
Moisturizer, lip balm, hydrating face mist: Trust us, your skin will thank you.
Nasal spray & flu medicine: Cold air (and the occasional pollution) can lead to runny noses or sniffles.
High-quality masks (PM2.5): A good one for early mornings or days filled with fog that leave the air quality lower.
Extras: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
If you want to enjoy the leisurely, romantic beauty that Hanoi Vietnam weather December has to offer, you’ll want to have some useful extras in your daypack.
Portable charger: Cold weather equals quicker battery drain. Don’t miss that sunset shot!
Travel umbrella or lightweight raincoat: Downpours are unlikely, but a little drizzle is a possibility.
Camera or smartphone with a nice night mode: Fog + lights = dreamy December photos!
Thermal mug: Keep your coffee or tea hot as you explore West Lake or the Old Quarter in the early morning.
Portable charger (Source: amazon)
Top Things to Do Based on Time of Day
Morning to Noon: Misty, Peaceful, and Profound
Between 16-18°C, the winter mornings in Hanoi winter the moment for contemplative strolls, warm beverages, or centuries of history.
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam)
Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da District, Hanoi
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket price: 30,000 VND (~1.2 USD)
Why visit: Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070. Walk amid courtyards, ancient stelae, and bonsai gardens while the gentle morning light filters through the mist.
Temple of Literature (Source: daewoohotel)
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Address: 2 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (closed Mondays & Fridays)
Ticket price: Free (foreigners may pay ~25,000 VND for the museum nearby)
Pro tip: Be here before 8 AM to experience the national flag-raising ceremony and beat the crowds. Dress modestly.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Source: vinwonders)
Giang Café – Legendary Egg Coffee
Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Price: ~30,000-45,000 VND (~1.2-1.8 USD)
Why go: Sip on a hot cup of egg coffee in a historic, tucked-away café beloved by locals. Thick, rich, and delicious in the chill of Hanoi Vietnam weather December.
Giang Café (Source: gtrip)
Hoan Kiem Lake & West Lake Morning Walk
Locations:
Hoan Kiem Lake: Hoan Kiem District (Old Quarter)
West Lake (Ho Tay): bordering Tay Ho District
Cost: Free
Why go: Morning mists, the serenity of reflection, and old folk practising tai chi all combine to make this not to be missed.
West Lake Morning Walk (Source: vinwonders)
Afternoon: Color, Culture, and Festive Streets
With the average in the range of 20-22°C, Hanoi’s temperature December is wonderful for traveling, exploring, shopping, and discovering Hanoi’s soul right in the afternoon.
Old Quarter Walking Tour + Mustard Flower Photography
Location: Around Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Ma May, and Dong Xuan streets
Photo spot: Bai da song Hong, or close to the Long Bien Bridge, for the yellow mustard fields
Cost: Free (Stone yard can charge a parking fee ~10,000 – 15,000 VND )
Why go: The Old Quarter hums with life, and the flower fields are just a short drive away to capture some of the iconic seasonal shots.
Mustard Flower Photography (Source: vietnamplus)
Quang Ba Flower Market
Address: 236 Au Co, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Opening hours: Open all day, but it’s best to go between 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Why go: It’s where Hanoi’s flower shops come to shop. Thousands of chrysanthemums, lilies, and other blooms are the perfect place to encounter the floral spirit of Hanoi winter.
Quang Ba Flower Market (Source: vinpearl)
St. Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho Lon Ha Noi)
Address: 40 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Visiting hours: Open to visitors daily; best after 3:00 PM
Ticket: Free
Why go: Aglow with fairy lights and Gothic splendor, this 19th-century cathedral is a December icon, particularly as Christmas approaches.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral (Source: vietnamtravel)
Evening – Night: Warm Food, Cultural Fire, and Skyline Views
As the Hanoi Temperature December starts to cool down from 12 to 15°C, you can start dressing in layers and exploring Hanoi’s nightlife and delicacies.
Street Food Adventure – Pho, Hotpot, Grilled Dishes
Lau Pho Co: 5 Ma May – Perfect for groupings (150,000-250,000 VND/pot)
Ngo cho Dong Xuan: An Anonymous alleyway packed full of grilled skewers, sticky rice, and banh trang nuong
Why go: In Hanoi temperature December, there is nothing better than a piping hot dish steeped in fragrant aromas right on the sidewalk.
Rooftop Cafés with Festive Views
Top picks:
The Note Coffee (64 Luong Van Can): Stick note decorated and Christmas lit up overlooking Hoan Kiem
Terraço Sky Bar (11B Ly Thai To): Fancy cocktails and sweeping views
Price: Drinks from 50,000-120,000 VND
Why go: Get out of the cold and bask in the warm vibes of twinkling lights over the Hanoi winter skyline.
The Note Coffee (Source: gtrip)
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Showtimes: Usually at 5:20 PM, 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM (confirm in advance)
Tickets: 100,000-200,000 VND (~4-8 USD)
Why go: A cultural treasure. Puppets glide over water amidst live Vietnamese folk music, see them stomping while they play during your stay.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (Source: vietnamtour)
Conclusion
With its cool, clean air, atmospheric streets, and little rain, Hanoi Temperature December provides an ideal starting point for a wonderful holiday. Whether you are enjoying egg coffee by the lake or finding cultural gems, Hanoi Vietnam weather December invites you to relax and enjoy life. Are you ready for Hanoi winter yet? This could be the best time to visit Hanoi.
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To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
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