What December feels like in Hanoi
December is part of Hanoi's dry season, when rain totals drop well below the wet months. Daytime temperatures are mild — neither cold nor hot for walking around. Little changes after sunset — nights stay mild, only slightly below the daytime level. The air is fairly humid, though at these temperatures it rarely feels oppressive.
Rain in Hanoi in December
Most days stay dry; rain arrives about one day in 4. Each rainy day adds about 4.8 mm (0.2 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 11.6 mm per rainy day. December is Hanoi's driest month of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in December
On 15 December the sun rises at about 6:26 am and sets around 5:18 pm local time, giving 10 h 52 min of daylight. Days are getting shorter: 17 min less daylight than in mid-November. About 51% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, sun and cloud share the day.
How December compares to the rest of the year
In Hanoi's temperature order, December sits as the 2nd coolest month. Compared with November, afternoons are 4.2°C (7.6°F) cooler, with 25 mm less rain. Temperatures keep falling into January. By January, typical highs are 19.9°C (67.8°F).
Who December suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — the weather rarely gets in the way of a city walk.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — good conditions for sitting outside.
Tips for visiting Hanoi in December
Light Layers
Comfortable clothes with a light layer for the evening.
Quick questions
How warm is Hanoi in December?
It feels mild: typical highs are 21.2°C (70.2°F), with lows near 14.4°C (57.9°F).
Does it rain a lot in Hanoi in December?
Not especially. There are about 7 rainy days (34 mm), mostly moderate rain.
What should I wear in Hanoi in December?
Based on the averages: light layers. There is little need to change for the evening.
Is December or January better for visiting Hanoi?
December, narrowly: it ranks #1 of 12 among Hanoi's months, against #3 for the other. January is cooler and has more rainy days.