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Are you thinking of visiting Hoi An in December? The time you choose to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most exciting. Knowing the Hoi An Vietnam weather December is essential to planning a memorable trip as the rainy season ends and the town prepares for the festive season. The final month of the year transforms Hoi An into a postcard-perfect destination, where the weather strikes an ideal balance between comfort and charm. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate Hoi An Vietnam weather December and plan the perfect itinerary.
Overview of Hoi An Vietnam weather December
The torrential rains of the rainy season finally end in December, when Hoi An’s dry season begins. As the rains begin to subside, the weather clears and the skies clear, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore the historic town. The ‘golden age’ of Hoi An tourism officially begins this month.
The Hoi An Vietnam weather December tends to be a regular cycle. Clear, cool mornings are followed by moderate temperatures that gradually warm up as the day progresses. Warm sunshine appears in the afternoon, although not as hot as it usually is during the summer. The cool, calm evenings are the perfect time to enjoy Hoi An’s famous night markets and street food.
While there may still be occasional light showers, they are much less than in November. These light showers rarely disrupt your travel plans, and usually pass quickly. With an average of just 100mm of rain over eight to ten days, December is one of the driest months on the Hoi An itinerary.
The humidity levels also become more manageable in December, hovering around 75-80%. This represents a noticeable improvement from the sticky conditions of the rainy season, though you’ll still feel the tropical climate’s influence.
Hoi An temperature in December: What to expect
Hoi An Vietnam weather December follows a comfortable pattern that most visitors find highly agreeable. Let’s break down what you can expect throughout the day:
Early morning (6-8 AM): With temperatures typically ranging from 19–21°C (66–70°F), early morning walks or photography are especially enjoyable. Sunrise activities get a revitalizing quality from the crispness of the air.
Mid-morning to afternoon (9 AM-3 PM): Temperatures gradually increase from mid-morning to afternoon (9am to 3pm), peaking at around 24–26°C (75–79°F) each day. This variety is perfect for outdoor exploration, as it’s warm enough to enjoy without being too harsh. In contrast to the intense heat of summer, winter sunlight is gentler on the skin.
Late afternoon to evening (4-8 PM): As the sun begins its descent, temperatures gradually drop to around 22-24°C (72-75°F). This cooling trend creates perfect conditions for evening strolls through the Ancient Town or riverside dining experiences.
Night (9 PM onwards): Temperatures drop at night, usually settling between 18 and 20°C (64 and 68°F). These may be the lowest temperatures of the day but are still mild enough that you don’t need to pack bulky clothes.
December is a much-needed respite from the intense heat of summer, especially for visitors from colder climates looking to escape the winter chill. The riverside is a great place to enjoy a hot Vietnamese coffee on chilly evenings
Best things to do in Hoi An Vietnam weather December
Hoi An’s mild December weather provides the perfect backdrop for a wide range of leisure, culinary and cultural activities. Hoi An has something for everyone, whether it’s sampling local cuisine, taking in the picturesque countryside or soaking up the town’s historic charm. Here are the top December activities in Hoi An, Vietnam, guaranteed to give you an unforgettable and engaging experience.
Exploring the Ancient Town
In December, it is a pleasure to explore Hoi An Ancient Town, with its charming streets and beautifully preserved architecture. It is pleasant and relaxing to walk through the winding streets as the weather is milder. Admire the fusion of French, Japanese and Chinese architectural styles in famous buildings such as the Old House of Tan Ky and the Japanese Bridge. December is a great time to buy handicrafts, traditional silk lanterns and tight-fitting costumes, among many other unique items from Hoi An, Vietnam.
Lantern-making workshops
Hoi An is famous for the colorful lanterns that light up the streets every night. A great way to explore the town’s creative traditions while creating a memento of your trip is to join a lantern-making workshop. With the help of workshops led by local craftsmen, you can create and decorate your own lantern and take home a unique memento of Hoi An’s charm.
Food tours and seasonal dishes
December is the perfect time of year for foodies to sample Hoi An’s delicious cuisine. Join a guided food tour to sample local specialties such as banh mi, Vietnam’s famous baguette, or cao lau, a pork and green noodle dish unique to the area. As the weather is cooler, warming dishes like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) or com ga Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice) become even more enjoyable. Don’t miss the chance to try white rose dumplings, a specialty that combines delicate rice paper dumplings with flavorful shrimp filling.
Cycling the countryside
If the weather permits, renting a bicycle to explore the countryside is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of town. Cycle through lush rice paddies, picturesque villages, and along quiet rivers. Stop by Tra Que Herb Village to learn about traditional farming methods or visit Cam Thanh Coconut Village to glide through water coconut forests in a traditional bamboo basket boat. These experiences help visitors learn about a part of rural life and the natural beauty surrounding Hoi An.
Visiting cultural sites
The area around Hoi An is rich in cultural heritage, so it’s not just the town centre that’s worth visiting. Spend a day at the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes historic Hindu temples from the Champa Kingdom. To learn more about the area’s history and culture, visit the Museum of Folklore or the Hoi An Museum of History and Culture, closer to town. These sites are especially fun in Hoi An Vietnam weather December, when the temperatures are cooler and outdoor exploration more comfortable.
Experience basket boat ride to Bay Mau coconut forest
A basket boat ride into Bay Mau coconut forest is a must-try experience in Hoi An. Located near the Ancient Town, this lush forest, often called the “Mekong Delta of Central Vietnam,” is perfect for exploring by traditional bamboo basket boats, or thung chai.
Guided by locals, you’ll glide through serene waterways lined with water coconut palms, enjoy exciting rowing tricks, and learn about the forest’s role during the Vietnam War. Many tours include fun activities like crab-catching or crafting souvenirs from coconut leaves, making it a unique blend of culture, history, and nature.
Cooking Classes
Hoi An is a great place to learn to cook because of its rich culinary history. Lessons often start with a trip to the market to source fresh ingredients. Students then prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. Cooking in a warm kitchen in December in Hoi An, Vietnam, provides a comfortable refuge from the cold weather. You will discover methods and recipes to bring home the delicious dishes of Hoi An.
Festive Celebrations and Events
As December is the festive season, you may encounter Christmas and New Year celebrations in Hoi An, particularly at restaurants, hotels, and resorts catering to international visitors. These events often feature special menus, live music, and lantern displays, blending Western festive traditions with local culture.
Packing tips for Hoi An’s December weather
Packing appropriately for Hoi An Vietnam weather December ensures you’ll stay comfortable throughout your visit. Here’s a comprehensive packing list tailored to the season:
- Bring lightweight clothing for the daytime and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Include a portable umbrella or raincoat for unexpected showers.
- Wear comfortable footwear for walking tours and cycling trips.
- Add a scarf or hat for extra warmth during chilly mornings and evenings.
- Don’t forget travel essentials like a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
Hoi An Vietnam weather December stands out as one of the most favorable months to visit this iconic place. The combination of cool mornings, warm afternoons, and pleasant evenings provides versatility for various activities. Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site, December’s weather won’t disappoint.
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Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Hoi An in Hoi An Vietnam weather December. Contact Asia Encounter now for suggestions and the best preparation for your trip. Not only stopping at Hoi An, we also have many itineraries to explore other cities in Southeast Asia that you should not miss!
