Vietnam New Year Holiday Guide: Weather, celebrations & peak season Booking tips

As the year draws to a close, many travellers from Europe, the Americas, and beyond seek a destination where culture, natural beauty, and festive cheer blend seamlessly—without the bitter cold of a Northern Hemisphere winter. Look no further than Vietnam. December and January mark the peak of the travel season, offering ideal conditions across the southern half of the country and a unique, atmospheric chill in the North. This period is magical: the bustling cities light up for Christmas, and the energy culminates in spectacular New Year countdowns, setting the stage for an unforgettable Vietnam New Year Holiday.

Whether you're looking for a warm, tropical beach holiday, a romantic escape among the misty mountains, or a lively urban celebration, Vietnam provides a diverse and vibrant setting. This guide is your essential blueprint for navigating this high-demand festive season. We’ll cover what to expect from the climate in each region, reveal the best spots for celebrating Christmas and New Year, recommend structured holiday packages, and share crucial booking tips to ensure your end-of-year adventure is perfectly planned and stress-free.

1. Vietnam weather in December–January

Unlike destinations with a uniform cold winter, Vietnam’s elongated geography means the weather in December and January varies dramatically from North to South.

The Northern part (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay)

This is the region’s true winter. While it won't be as severe as a European or North American cold spell, the temperatures are consistently cool and can be surprisingly chilly, particularly due to the high humidity and damp feeling. Expect average temperatures to hover between 10ºC and 20ºC (50ºF and 68ºF).

For visitors planning to travel to the mountain regions like Sapa and Ha Giang, temperatures can drop to near freezing, occasionally resulting in frost or even snow - a rare but beautiful sight. When cruising Ha Long Bay, prepare for overcast skies and a misty atmosphere, which adds a mysterious charm but means less sun exposure. Therefore, packing layers, including sweaters, a thermal base layer, and a medium-weight jacket or coat, is highly recommended for this region.

The Central (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue)

The Central Coast lies in a transitional zone during the festive season. December can often still be wet as it marks the official tail end of the rainy season, but conditions typically improve significantly by January. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, often ranging from 18ºC to 25ºC (64ºF to 77ºF).

Historically, Hue is the wettest city in this area, so travellers visiting in December should anticipate higher chances of rain and clouds. However, January welcomes less rainfall and more frequent sunny days, making it ideal for exploring the ancient town of Hoi An and the beaches around Da Nang. When packing for the Central region, be sure to include light layers and long trousers, and most importantly, waterproof gear such as a light waterproof jacket or an umbrella.

The South (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Mui Ne)

In stark contrast to the North, the South of Vietnam enjoys its dry season and peak weather period during December and January. If your goal is sun, heat, and guaranteed clear skies, this is the region for you, offering a perfect escape from winter elsewhere. Temperatures are consistently hot and sunny, averaging 25ºCto 35ºC (77ºF to 95ºF). The humidity is notably low, creating ideal conditions for beach activities on islands like Phu Quoc, relaxing in the coastal town of Mui Ne, and exploring the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Travellers heading South need only pack summer clothing, swimwear, sun hats, and plenty of high-SPF sun cream.

2. Where to celebrate Christmas and New Year in Vietnam

Vietnam may not share the deeply rooted Christian traditions of the West, but its cities embrace the festive season with gusto. Christmas is a vibrant, secular celebration, and New Year’s Eve is a massive public party. These are the cities where you should spend time during these events.

Hanoi - the capital

Hanoi offers an enchanting, classic festive experience thanks to its cool, sometimes cold, weather.

For Christmas, the heart of the celebration is St. Joseph's Cathedral. The area surrounding the cathedral is beautifully illuminated, packed with locals and tourists enjoying the Christmas atmosphere, music, and street food. The major shopping centres are also heavily decorated. The cool weather adds a romantic charm to the festivities, making it ideal for cosy dinners and enjoying the festive lights.

For the New Year’s Eve Countdown, the focus shifts to the Hoan Kiem Lake area. This entire district is pedestrianized and becomes the epicentre of the city's biggest party. Massive stages are set up at Ly Thai To Square, featuring live music, DJs, and spectacular light shows that lead up to the midnight fireworks display. Be prepared for enormous crowds; the energy is electric but navigating the area requires patience. 

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) guarantees a tropical, high-energy festive experience thanks to its warm weather and large population.

Christmas is vibrant and sunny. The decorations are elaborate, particularly around the Notre Dame Cathedral. For a unique experience, explore the residential alleys in districts like Pham The Hien Street, where Catholic neighbourhoods go all out with dazzling light displays that attract visitors from across the city.

After the Christams, the city will prepare for the largest and most spectacular New Year’s Eve Countdown in the country. Nguyen Hue Walking Street is the prime viewing area for the major music acts and the stunning midnight fireworks over the Saigon River. The atmosphere is carnival-like, full of youthful energy and excitement. For a less crowded experience, consider booking a table at one of the city’s numerous rooftop bars for a panoramic view of the fireworks. 

Hoi An

Hoi An provides a more peaceful and atmospheric alternative to the bustling metropolises.

Christmas in Hoi An is subdued but exceptionally beautiful. While there are no large public spectacles, the entire Ancient Town glows with thousands of colourful lanterns, creating an incredibly romantic and photogenic backdrop. Many high-end restaurants offer special festive menus, often combined with the town’s signature traditional music. This is the perfect spot for couples or those seeking a quiet, traditional-meets-modern holiday celebration.

On New Year’eve, Hoi An hosts smaller, intimate events. The main square features a modest stage and a local countdown, but the real fun is found at the major hotels or the beach clubs just outside the town, which host large themed parties and gala dinners. Alternatively, a tranquil evening spent by the Thu Bon River, releasing a floating lantern, can be a beautifully reflective way to welcome the New Year.

Da Nang

As the Central region's hub, Da Nang is known for its many modern urban events. On New Year's Eve, the city hosts significant celebrations and music festivals at major venues and My Khe beach, featuring impressive fireworks over the Han River or near the Dragon Bridge. It offers a lively counterpoint to the quiet charm of nearby Hoi An.

Da Lat

Located in the Central Highlands, Da Lat is renowned for its perpetual springtime climate and stunning natural beauty. The cold weather makes it incredibly atmospheric for both Christmas and New Year. The city's many Catholic churches and university areas are beautifully decorated, and the main Xuan Huong Lake hosts a colourful, intimate countdown that is popular with domestic tourists seeking a romantic, cool-weather celebration. 

Sapa

If you’re truly chasing a unique winter experience, Sapa is the destination. Christmas and New Year here are marked by bitterly cold weather and the chance of a white Christmas (frost or occasional snow) on the Fansipan mountain peak. Celebrations are generally held within hotels and resorts, offering a cosy, fireside atmosphere after days spent trekking through the misty, dramatic landscapes. 

Halong Bay

The best way to celebrate the festive season in Halong Bay is aboard a luxury cruise. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, many cruises offer special gala dinners, live music, and themed parties on the deck, providing an unparalleled experience of welcoming the new year surrounded by the bay’s iconic limestone karsts. It’s a spectacular, all-inclusive celebration far from the city crowds. 

4. Recommended tour package for Vietnam New Year holiday

To help you plan your ideal Vietnam New Year Holiday, here are three popular package options tailored to common international travel lengths, offering a balance of culture, nature, and relaxation.

10 day Vietnam holiday: Classic North to South

The most popular option for international travellers, this package connects the historic and cultural hubs, offering a fantastic balance of city life, imperial history, and beachside relaxation.

You will experience the vibrant energy of Hanoi before flying South. Explore the ancient citadel of Da Nang, then settle into the magical, lantern-lit atmosphere of Hoi An. Finally, travel to Ho Chi Minh City for a romantic Christmas or New Year celebration. Conclude your trip with a Mekong Delta tour before heading home.

Brief itinerary:

Reference price: US$ 1,325 per person

Check details and price for your group 

14 day Vietnam holiday

This comprehensive package allows you to experience the full geographical and cultural spectrum of Vietnam, ensuring you see the famous landmarks while still allowing time to relax and recover.

Starting in the tropical sunshine of the South, transition through the imperial centre, and finish with the wintry North. Enjoy two full weeks of diverse experiences, from cruising in the North to exploring floating markets in the Mekong Delta and partying in the warm atmosphere of Hanoi for New Year's Eve. This pace prevents burnout and covers all the major highlights.

Brief itinerary:

Reference price: US$ 1,675 per person

Check details and price for your group

5. Tips for booking flights & tours

It is important to remember that in Vietnam, Christmas Day (December 25th) is a normal working day, while New Year’s Day (January 1st) is a public holiday. Book restaurants and secure your spot at countdown venues well in advance, as high-demand locations fill up quickly, especially on December 31st.

1. Book well in advance

This is the single most important piece of advice. For those who are accustomed to booking accommodation and tours upon arrival, please note that the festive season is not the time to take chances. During this high-demand period, waiting until you arrive means facing severe risks of overbooking, inflated last-minute prices, and having to settle for services that are not up to your desired quality.

The advice is booking hotels and multi-day tours (like Ha Long Bay cruises) at least 1-2 months ahead of your departure date. Booking early guarantees the best room rates and secures your spot on reputable tours, ensuring your holiday experience is seamless and high-quality.

2. Prepare for peak season surcharges

• Be aware that major hotels and resorts in Vietnam apply mandatory festive season surcharges for certain dates.
• These fees are most often applied to Christmas Eve (December 24th) and New Year’s Eve (December 31st). They can sometimes be applied to New Year's Day as well.
• Surcharges typically cover mandatory gala dinners or special event fees and can significantly increase the nightly price.
• The benefit of booking a package with IZITOUR is peace of mind. All mandatory festive season surcharges are included in your total package price, meaning you will not face unexpected charges upon arrival at your hotel or cruise ship.

3. Check visa requirements early

While many nationalities enjoy visa exemptions (often up to 15 or 45 days), it is vital to check the latest Vietnamese visa and entry requirements for your specific passport well before booking your trip. Applying for an e-Visa is the easiest route, but ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry. 

4. Be flexible with travel dates

If your schedule allows, a small adjustment in your travel dates can lead to significant savings.

• Fly mid-week: International flights arriving or departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday are generally cheaper than those on weekends.

• Avoid key dates: Arriving or departing one or two days before or after the main Christmas or New Year holidays can often shave hundreds of dollars off airfare costs.

Explore more tour package

Vietnam in December and January is a destination of diverse climates and vibrant celebrations. From the chilly charm of Hanoi to the spectacular countdown in Ho Chi Minh City, this holiday offers a truly unforgettable start to the new year.

You've learned the crucial tips for navigating this high season. Now, the only step left is to turn these plans into reality. Let IZITOUR make your holiday seamless. We specialise in designing personalized tours that perfectly match travellers’ unique needs, travel style, preferences, and budget. Forget the stress of planning and allow us to craft a custom journey through Vietnam’s festive season just for you.

Contact local experts for a personalized Vietnam New Year Holiday!