Experience Christmas in Vietnam with beautiful lights, festive events, church celebrations, music, and street food. Discover where to go in Hanoi, Hoian, Dalat and Ho Chi Minh City for magical holiday moments, plus travel tips and must-try local treats.

Every Christmas season, a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere spreads across Vietnam, filling every city and village with festive colors and a spirit of togetherness. Whether in vibrant major cities or peaceful countryside towns, the celebration blends harmoniously with warmth, sharing, and love.

Join LV Travel as we explore the magical Christmas spirit in some of Vietnam’s most remarkable cities.
And especially - LV Travel will reveal the best highlights and travel recommendations so you can fully enjoy this festive season to the fullest!

1. What Is Christmas Like in Vietnam?

During the Christmas season, the festive atmosphere in Vietnam truly comes alive. Places such as St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi, shopping malls, and city parks are beautifully decorated with Christmas symbols like sparkling trees, Santa Claus figures, and colorful gift displays.

Christmas gatherings take place almost everywhere - from churches and schools to companies and community spaces. People come together to enjoy meals, sing carols, and exchange warm wishes. This not only brings joy, but also strengthens the sense of connection and togetherness during the holiday season.

2. Top Cities to Experience Christmas in Vietnam

When choosing where to travel during Christmas, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local holiday atmosphere, learn about unique customs, and experience the festive traditions firsthand. This not only brings excitement to your trip but also allows you to better understand the culture and people of the destination.

Traveling at the right time means you can enjoy seasonal activities such as concerts, holiday markets, and dazzling light festivals. All of these experiences will make your holiday getaway even more memorable.

2.1 Hanoi – A Warm and Timeless Christmas Charm

Hanoi is one of the most captivating cities to visit during the Christmas season. With its ancient streets, historic buildings, and cool winter breeze, the city offers a beautifully nostalgic and cozy festive atmosphere. Walking through Hanoi in December feels like stepping into a charming holiday postcard, where soft lights glow along quiet sidewalks and the spirit of Christmas gently lingers in the air.

In winter, Hanoi becomes cooler and more atmospheric. The old French architecture blends perfectly with sparkling holiday lights, creating postcard-worthy scenes.

Best Places to Celebrate:

-   St. Joseph’s Cathedral: Music, Celebration & Christmas Atmosphere

St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi is an iconic destination every Christmas season, a place where tradition, faith, and festive joy come together. During this time, the cathedral is beautifully decorated with sparkling LED lights, tall Christmas trees, and symbolic nativity scenes, creating a magical holiday setting.

As the evening approaches, choirs gather and perform soft, harmonious carols that echo through the square, while crowds of locals and visitors fill the courtyard to await the Christmas Eve Mass. The atmosphere becomes lively yet deeply meaningful, a blend of spiritual reverence and joyful celebration.

Here, you can immerse yourself in sacred rituals, listen to heartfelt hymns, and admire artistic performances that reflect the community’s devotion. It is also one of the most photogenic spots in the city, making it a must-visit for capturing beautiful Christmas memories and experiencing the cultural traditions of Hanoi during the festive season.

-   Hoan Kiem Lake: A Festive Night Stroll by the Water

During Christmas season, the areas surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter become beautifully illuminated with festive lights and colorful decorations. From sparkling Christmas trees to glowing street ornaments, the entire area transforms into a warm and joyful holiday scene that attracts both locals and visitors.

An evening walk around the lake offers a charming experience: gentle breezes, music floating from nearby cafés, and crowds gathering to take photos, enjoy street food, or simply feel the festive spirit. Nearby shopping centers and pedestrian streets are also decorated vibrantly, making the whole district lively and full of cheerful holiday energy.

Hoan Kiem Lake is not only a place to relax, but also one of the best spots to immerse yourself in the Christmas atmosphere of Hanoi bright, welcoming, and full of celebration.

-   Hang Ma Street: The Christmas Decoration Market

Hang Ma Street becomes one of the most vibrant places in Hanoi during the Christmas season. The entire street is filled with shops displaying colorful decorations such as Christmas ornaments, twinkling string lights, Santa hats, gift boxes, wreaths, and sparkling Christmas trees of all sizes.

Walking along the street, you’ll be surrounded by a festive atmosphere — lively music, bright lights, and cheerful crowds picking out decorations for their homes, cafés, and offices. It's also one of the best places to take photos, as every corner is full of holiday colors and joyful energy.

Whether you’re shopping for ornaments or simply enjoying the Christmas spirit, Hang Ma Street offers a warm and exciting holiday experience right in the heart of Hanoi.

2.2 Hoi An: Lantern Lights Blended with Christmas Glow

Hoi An is already famous for its vibrant lanterns, and during Christmas, the town becomes even more enchanting. The narrow ancient streets are beautifully decorated, with shimmering lights reflecting off cozy cafés and traditional houses. The warm glow of lanterns combined with subtle Christmas decorations creates a magical festive atmosphere unique to Hoi An.

Here, you can enjoy traditional cultural performances, wander along the riverside illuminated by colorful lanterns, and savor famous local specialties such as Cao Lau and Hoi An-style Banh Mi. Immersing yourself in this festive setting allows you to experience both the gentle charm of the ancient town and the joyful spirit of the holiday season.

2.3 Da Lat: A Dreamy Christmas Wonderland

Da Lat, the city of a thousand flowers, is not only known for its cool climate but is also the perfect destination for those seeking a romantic Christmas atmosphere. During the festive season, Da Lat becomes even more enchanting, illuminated with sparkling lights and vibrant decorations.

The crisp winter air is one of the city’s greatest charms at Christmas time. Tall pine trees lining the streets, gentle chilly afternoons, and twinkling holiday lights come together to create a peaceful yet heartwarming ambiance. You can take a leisurely walk around Xuan Huong Lake, enjoy a bicycle ride, or simply stroll through the city to soak in the refreshing highland breeze.

Da Lat’s natural beauty adds to the magic. Blossoming flowers, misty early mornings, and serene hillscapes make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale Christmas setting. Whether you’re sipping hot tea in a garden café or wandering among fields of flowers, Da Lat offers an unforgettable holiday experience full of charm and warmth.

2.4 Ho Chi Minh City: A Modern and Vibrant Christmas

Ho Chi Minh City, the largest metropolis in Vietnam, is where Christmas is celebrated in grand and colorful style. The festive atmosphere here is lively and energetic, with dazzling lights and joyful activities taking place throughout the city.

During the holiday season, major shopping centers such as Vincom, Takashimaya, and Saigon Centre are beautifully decorated with giant Christmas trees, festive ornaments, and gift stalls. It’s the perfect place to admire holiday displays and enjoy the cheerful vibe of the city.

If you love shopping, Ho Chi Minh City is an ideal destination for finding unique gifts for friends and family. But Christmas here is not only about shopping - there are also countless entertainment events, from live performances and concerts to festive street activities that fill the city with music and celebration.

For those looking to enjoy the nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City offers exciting parties at popular bars and clubs. The lively atmosphere, energetic music, and vibrant crowd will give you unforgettable memories during this festive season.

3. Must-Try Holiday Treats

3.1 Hanoi - Warm & Traditional Winter Flavors

Christmas in Hanoi blends a touch of cold weather with comforting street food traditions. When strolling through the Old Quarter or Hoan Kiem Lake during the festive season, don’t miss:

-   Cốm Xanh & Xôi Cốm – A soft, fragrant specialty of autumn that still appears during winter, best paired with hot tea.

-   Bánh Gối – Crispy fried pastries filled with minced meat and glass noodles, perfect for chilly evenings.

-   Chè Warm Desserts (Chè Sắn, Chè Bắp) – Sweet, warm bowls ideal for cold Hanoi nights.

-   Hanoi Egg Coffee – A holiday favorite with creamy foam and rich espresso.

3.2 Hoi An – Sweet, Cozy & Full of Local Heritage

Hoi An at Christmas glows softly with lantern lights and riverside cafés. Holiday flavors here are unique and comforting:

-   Cao Lầu – A signature noodle dish with smoky pork, herbs, and chewy noodles.

-   Bánh Mì Hội An – Known worldwide - crispy crust, flavorful fillings, aromatic sauces.

-   Mì Quảng – A cozy, colorful noodle bowl with turmeric broth.

-   Hot Ginger Tea & Sesame Candy by the Hoai River – A warm local pairing for night strolls.

Hoi An’s festive food is not extravagant, but simple, soulful, and deeply memorable.

3.3 Da Lat – Romantic, Cool-Weather Comfort Food

With its chilly air and misty evenings, Da Lat feels made for Christmas. Enjoy:

-   Hot Soy Milk by Xuan Huong Lake – A Da Lat tradition; creamy, fragrant, and best enjoyed while walking in cool weather.

-   Bánh Tráng Nướng (Vietnamese Pizza) – Grilled rice paper topped with egg, cheese, sausage - crispy and warm.

-   Lẩu Gà Lá É (Chicken Hot Pot with Lemon Basil Leaves) – Light, aromatic, and perfect for sharing.

-   Strawberries & Jam from Local Farms – A sweet holiday souvenir.

Food in Da Lat brings warmth, romance, and a gentle festive feeling.

3.4 Ho Chi Minh City - Modern, Colorful & Festive Sweets

Christmas in Saigon is full of lights, music, and delicious fusion treats. Don’t miss:

-   Bûche de Noël (Yule Log Cake) from French-inspired bakeries - elegant and flavorful.

-   Coconut Milk Hot Chocolate - A tropical twist on the classic winter drink.

-   Grilled Corn, Sweet Potatoes, & Skewers - Enjoyed while walking through decorated streets.

-  Christmas-Themed Coffee Drinks in rooftop cafés - peppermint latte, caramel cream mocha, and more.

The Christmas spirit in Saigon is bright, joyful, and deliciously exciting.

4. Travel Tips for Christmas in Vietnam

Traveling during the Christmas season in Vietnam is exciting, but a bit of planning will help you enjoy the experience to the fullest. Make sure to book your hotels and transportation early, as this is one of the most festive and popular times of the year. Pack suitable clothing based on your destination - Hanoi and Da Lat can be quite cold, while Ho Chi Minh City and coastal areas stay warm and comfortable. If you plan to visit a church or attend Christmas Mass, remember to dress modestly and respect the quiet, sacred atmosphere. Don’t forget to explore both street food stalls and holiday-inspired desserts - this blend of tradition and festivity is one of the highlights of celebrating Christmas in Vietnam. And lastly, be prepared for crowds in central squares and decorated streets at night, as these areas come alive with lights, music, and holiday cheer.

Christmas in Vietnam is not only about decorations and celebrations  it’s a time to feel the warmth of community, the joy of gathering, and the beauty of cultural harmony.

From the calm candlelit nights in Hanoi, the gentle ocean breeze in Da Nang, to the bright and lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City - each city offers its own magical Christmas story.