1. Hanoi Weather in December

1.1 Temperature Ranges

December is when Hanoi’s winter kicks in, with temperatures dropping noticeably compared to the rest of the year. Daytime temperatures range between 15°C and 22°C (59°F – 71.6°F), while at night, they can dip as low as 9°C (48.2°F). The colder nights make warm clothing essential for tourists, especially if you’re planning to explore the city in the early morning or late evening. The highest temperatures usually occur in the early part of December, while mid and late December can feel much colder due to the northern monsoon winds.

1.2 Sunshine Hours

Hanoi experiences an average of about 4 to 5 hours of sunshine per day in December. The city is often shrouded in misty clouds, giving it a cool, somewhat gloomy feel. However, sunny days can still occur, making certain areas like Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake perfect for leisurely walks or photo ops.

1.3 Rainfall

With only about 30 millimeters of rain throughout the month, December is one of the driest months in Hanoi. There are typically 6 to 9 rainy days scattered across the month, with the chances of rainfall decreasing toward the end of December. The low precipitation and mild winter make it easier to explore the city without worrying about sudden downpours.

1.4 Wind and Humidity

The average wind speed in December is about 2.9 meters per second (6.5 mph). Although it’s not particularly strong, the cold wind can make outdoor exploration feel chillier than the actual temperature suggests. Humidity is relatively low, fluctuating between 60% and 75%, making the cool air feel crisp but not too dry.

1.5 Sunrise & Sunset Times

December days in Hanoi are shorter due to the approaching winter solstice. Early in the month, the sun rises around 6:33 AM and sets by 5:25 PM. By the end of December, daylight hours shorten slightly, with sunrise at 6:29 AM and sunset at 5:20 PM. With nearly 11 hours of daylight, there’s plenty of time to explore before the city’s nightlife starts to awaken.

2. Top Things to Do in Hanoi in December

2.1 Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi, is a serene spot to visit in December. The misty mornings and cool air add a mystical vibe to this already iconic destination. During weekends, the area becomes pedestrian-only, allowing visitors to stroll, admire Turtle Tower, and visit Ngoc Son Temple. Don’t miss the weekend night markets nearby.

Address: Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Entry fee: Free
Best time to visit: Morning or evening for the best views

2.2 The Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter comes alive with vibrant energy, even in the cold December weather. Explore the maze of narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and markets offering everything from handicrafts to street food. A cyclo ride through this bustling part of the city is a must-try experience.

Address: Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Entry fee: Free (cyclo rides from $3-$5)
Best time to visit: Late afternoon and evening

2.3 Historical Landmarks

Hanoi’s historical landmarks are great to visit in December’s cooler weather. Highlights include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison. The low humidity and cold air make outdoor exploration comfortable, so you can enjoy walking between these sites.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Address: 2 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Entry fee: Free
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM

2.4 Flower Gardens and Photo Spots

December brings beautiful blooms of white chrysanthemums in Hanoi’s flower villages, especially in Nhat Tan Flower Village and Quang Ba Flower Market. For Instagram-worthy photos, visit these gardens and markets in mid-December when the flowers are in full bloom.

Nhat Tan Flower Village
Address: Au Co, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Entry fee: Free
Best time to visit: Mid-December

2.5 West Lake Sunset

One of the most romantic sights in Hanoi is watching the sunset over West Lake in December. The sky often turns beautiful shades of pink and purple as the sun dips below the horizon, reflecting on the water’s surface. Enjoy the view from one of the lakeside cafes or stroll along the water’s edge.

Address: Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Best time to visit: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM

3. What to Wear & Travel Tips

3.1 Layering and Footwear

Layering is the key to staying comfortable in Hanoi’s December weather. The mornings and nights can be quite cold, so a light sweater or jacket paired with thermal wear is recommended. During the day, you can shed some layers when the temperature rises slightly. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around the city’s many attractions.

3.2 Hotel Recommendations (Addresses & Prices)

Here are some top-rated hotels to keep you warm and comfortable in December:

• Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi
  Address: 29 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District
  Price: From $110 per night
  Features: 2-way air conditioning, spa, close to Hoan Kiem Lake
• La Siesta Premium Hang Be
  Address: 27 Hang Be Street, Hoan Kiem District
  Price: From $80 per night
  Features: Luxurious rooms, rooftop bar, located in the Old Quarter

3.3 Additional Travel Advice

• Book hotels with 2-way air conditioning to ensure you stay warm during the chilly nights.
• Carry a scarf and gloves, as the wind can make it feel colder than the actual temperature.
• Bring along moisturizers to prevent dry skin due to the low humidity.

4. Local Food & Dining in December

4.1 Iconic Street Foods

Winter in Hanoi is the perfect time to warm up with iconic street foods. Some must-try dishes include bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), pho bo (beef noodle soup), and the unique egg coffee. These dishes are hearty and perfect for the cold weather.

• Bun Cha Huong Lien
  Address: 24 Le Van Huu Street, Hai Ba Trung District
  Price: $2.50 for a serving of bun cha

• Giang Cafe (for egg coffee)
  Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District
  Price: $1.50 per cup

4.2 Popular Cafes (Addresses & Prices)

Warm up in some of Hanoi’s coziest cafes. Whether you’re looking for strong Vietnamese coffee or a quiet place to relax, here are some popular spots:

• Cong Caphe
  Address: 32 Dien Bien Phu Street, Ba Dinh District
  Price: $1.80 for a cup of coffee
• The Note Coffee
  Address: 64 Luong Van Can, Hoan Kiem District
  Price: $1.50 – $2.00 per drink

5. Conclusion 

Hanoi in December offers a magical blend of cold winter air, cultural exploration, and festive vibes. With fewer crowds and clear skies, it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s famous attractions, from Hoan Kiem Lake to West Lake sunsets. For an expertly planned trip, book with Vietnam Discovery Tours and enjoy seamless service. Reach us via WhatsApp for instant assistance during your journey.