Ho Chi Minh City Weather in December: Your Complete Guide 2025

Climate Patterns of Ho Chi Minh in December

In December, this southern metropolis experiences a pleasant change in weather, making it one of the best times to visit. Let's take a closer look at the typical climate during this month.

Average Temperature

Ho Chi Minh City sees a break from the heat of earlier months in December. Daytime temperatures peak at 31°C (88°F), while nights are much milder, dropping to 22°C (72°F). The monthly average temperature settles at about 26.5°C (79.7°F), creating a comfortable balance of warmth and coolness. With humidity levels easing and the weather turning more enjoyable, December is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities across the city.

Average highs and lows in Ho Chi Minh City in December stay consistent (credit: accuweather.com)

Rainfall Statistics

December in the southern metropolis of Vietnam is dry, with precipitation occurring on just 7.3 days of the month. The total monthly rainfall averages 26.7 mm, and on any given day, there is about a 22% chance of rain. 

When it does rain, the city records approximately 0.52 in (13.3 mm) of precipitation per rainy day, underscoring December’s reputation as one of the city’s driest periods.

Rainfall in December falls back to one of its lowest points of the year (credit: vietnamonline.com)

Humidity Levels

Ho Chi Minh City is moderately humid with an average relative humidity of 73%, which can feel sticky to many visitors. Although it may not be as sweltering as during the peak of the rainy season, the air can still feel heavy, especially during the early days of the month.

The good news is that the likelihood of muggy conditions decreases throughout December. At the beginning of the month, there is a 94% chance of a muggy day, but by the end of the month, that drops to 84%.

Humidity comfort levels in December in Ho Chi Minh City (credit: weatherspark.com)

Air Quality and UV Index

Saigon in December has an average maximum UV index of 7, which is considered high. This means sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats, is recommended, especially at midday. 

Regarding air quality, the city is classified as moderately polluted compared to other Southeast Asian cities. The PM2.5 level is recorded at 26.9 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), which can pose health concerns for sensitive individuals. While Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam, pollution levels are generally lower than those of Hanoi.

Typical Weather Patterns

Showers are rare and brief, total precipitation averages under 30 mm for the entire month, so you can expect long stretches of sunshine punctuated by only occasional passing clouds. 

Winds are usually light to moderate, coming from the northeast as part of the northeast monsoon, contributing to the drier and more temperate climate. With such nice weather conditions, it is no surprise that overseas tourists have no shortage of activities to enjoy. Take sightseeing, street-side cafés, and evening walks along Nguyen Hue Boulevard, as examples.

December brings pleasant weather to Saigon, making it an ideal time to visit

Is December a Good Time to Visit Saigon?

Yes, December is arguably the most favorite time to visit Saigon. Falling in the dry season, you will not have to worry about sudden downpours interrupting your plans. This is because days are bright and warm, while evenings turn cool. This is also when luxury malls roll out major promotions from world-famous brands, and every street corner hums with the festive spirit of such special events:

• Christmas and New Year's Eve (December 1 - 31)

Saigon lights up with elaborate decorations, from giant Christmas trees in District 1 to themed window displays in high-end malls. Carolers, street performers, and impromptu live bands appear on Nguyen Hue Walking Street each weekend. Do not miss the midnight mass celebrations at Notre Dame Cathedral for a truly atmospheric experience.

Don't miss the midnight mass at Notre Dame Cathedral for a truly magical experience

• Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Week (mid-December; exact dates vary annually)

Organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, this week-long festival features cultural performances, food fairs, and heritage tours across the city. Highlights include discounted city-wide attraction passes. It is the perfect opportunity to dive into both modern and historic facets of Saigon life.

However, due to a peak tourist season, the cost of all services, especially flights, is driven up. Domestic airfares to Ho Chi Minh City around Christmas and New Year's Eve can go as high as 3 - 4 million VND per person.

Unmissable Acitivities in Ho Chi Minh in December

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh market is the largest and busiest market in Saigon, the centre of trade, commerce, shopping, and delicious cuisine for not only tourists but also a large number of locals. It is located in the middle of the intersection, so it is extremely convenient to get there. There are up to 1500 stalls managed by 6000 merchants inside the market, so you can buy everything here from garments, clothes, dried foods to fresh products, meat, and flowers…

Ben Thanh Market is Saigon's busiest hub for shopping, popular with both tourists and locals

Visit Tan Dinh Church

It is not only the beautiful architecture with pink color covering all the buildings, but also one of the oldest to witness the change of history and Catholicism in the city as well. Every day, the church organizes more than 200 free meals for lonely and elderly people, and it also has a charity clinic for the poor. Surely, you will be impressed when visiting this church, especially during December, as you will be immersed in the beautiful Christmas space here.

Tan Dinh Church is also impressive with its beautifully festive Christmas atmosphere

Explore Saigon Nightlife

Ho Chi Minh city is busy and energetic during the day and night time. When in this city, do not miss your chance to explore the city at night. There are many exciting bars and clubs, and theatre performances when the night falls. You can either explore the city on your own or sign up for a night tour to get around. Pham Ngu Lao, Ngo Van Nam, Dong Khoi, and Le Thanh Ton area surely will bring you extraordinary experiences.  There is a place you can relax at the clubs with music, enjoy tasty drinks, meet other people, and join many other exciting activities.

Be sure to explore Saigon's vibrant nightlife and exciting evening activities.

Indulge in Delicious Food

You may find it hard to resist Vietnam cuisine in general and Saigon cuisine in particular. There are hundreds of amazing dishes in Saigon you should try such as Cơm tấm (broken rice), Bánh Mì (Vietnamese baguette), “Bún mắm” (Vietnamese gumbo), and “Bún thịt nướng” (vermicelli with grilled pork). You can easily find a place to taste Saigon cuisine from the local stall to luxury restaurants, the food here is delicious.

Saigon offers hundreds of delicious dishes, especially street food

Visit Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta is a large area, which is about 3 hours from the city centre. Tourists can spend one full day or two and 3 days for the experience in the region. To explore the area, tourists will need to get in a sampan to sail along the Mekong River and see the surrounding area. If you have time, spending an overnight in the region is great, and you can visit the floating market early in the morning. The floating market is very special as it sells many kinds of fruits on boats from bananas, oranges, pineapples, coconut, watermelon, to vegetables or fruits. Let's sign up for a Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh now.

The floating market in Mekong Delta is unique, with boats selling a variety of fruits and vegetable

Practical Travel Advice for Ho Chi Minh in December

What to pack

You do not need to worry too much or prepare too many things for the trip to Saigon in December because the rain rarely happens in Saigon in December. Just bring comfortable, and light clothes such as dresses, tops, T-shirts and skirts made of cotton or linen. With a water temperature of around 27.0°C, this is a great month to swim so bring your swimwear.

Travel tips

• Book all the services early in advance because December is quite a busy time for Saigon tourism
• Book a hotel near sightseeing areas, train stations for convenient transportation if you book all the services separately.
• When travelling on public transportation, store your luggage carefully and be wary of strangers on the road. Although the people are quite friendly, Saigon is also famous for its sophisticated theft and robbery tricks.

Planning a December Trip to Saigon? Read These FAQs!

Does it rain often in Ho Chi Minh City in December?

No, it does not rain much in December. In fact, Ho Chi Minh City has only about 7.3 rainy days throughout the month, with an average precipitation of just 26.7mm. This makes December one of the driest and most pleasant months to come.

Can I wear summer clothes in Saigon during December?

Sure! December weather in Saigon is warm and comfortable, with average daytime temperatures hovering from 22 to 31°C (72–88°F). Light summer clothing like T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and sandals is recommended. Just bring a light jacket for evenings, which can be cooler.

What should I eat in Ho Chi Minh City in December weather?

December is suitable for enjoying Vietnam’s delicious street food without the discomfort of heat or rain. Try Com Tam, Banh Mi, Bun Mam, Bun Thit Nuong, and tropical fruits like mango and dragon fruit. Seasonal treats like Che are also a must-try.

What is the best time of day to explore Saigon in December weather?

Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to explore the city. Temperatures are milder and more comfortable for walking tours, visiting landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Ben Thanh Market, or enjoying coffee at a streetside café.

Can I swim or go to the beach from Saigon in December?

Yes! December is a great month for beach trips. Though Saigon itself does not have beaches, popular seaside destinations like Vung Tau and Mui Ne are just a few hours away for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

December is among the most delightful times to see Ho Chi Minh City. With pleasant temperatures, low rainfall, and festive energy in the air, it is a good chance to embrace the culture, cuisine, and landmarks this city has to offer. 

Looking forward to traveling to Saigon this December? Let BestPrice Travel help you plan your trip! From customized itineraries to exclusive deals on tours and hotels, we make travel easy and hassle-free.

>>> You might want to know about Saigon weather in January.

Jenny

(Image sources: Internet)