It’s a good time to discover new places. We have you covered, whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland escape or a warm getaway.
The best December getaways not only combine festive markets with cultural experiences but also offer relaxing locations. For example, you can ski in the mountains, or alternatively, unwind on tropical beaches, thereby creating a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
This guide will help plan the perfect trip for December. You’ll find out the best places to visit for a memorable holiday.
The Key Takeaways
- Discover festive markets in European cities
- Relax on tropical beaches
- Enjoy winter sports in mountain resorts
- Enjoy unique cultural events, festivals and other activities
- Enjoy a romantic winter getaway in a cozy winter wonderland
Why December is a great time to travel
Traveling in December can be a wonderful experience, especially with holiday cheer spreading all over the world. Moreover, many destinations offer unique experiences, which in turn create lasting and memorable memories. Therefore, December travel combines festive excitement with unforgettable moments.
Magical Holiday Season Around the World
Many places are transformed into winter wonderlands during the holiday season. Local spots offer festive markets, events and Christmas dinner. Visit nearby cities or towns for a holiday-themed day trip.
Travel Deals for the End of Year
Travel companies often offer packages and special deals as the year comes to a close. Consequently, these end-of-year travel offers allow you to enjoy unique experiences while saving money. In addition, you can explore some of the most popular holiday destinations, and at the same time, compare their prices to plan the best trip possible.
| Destination | Average Price | Discounted Prices |
| New York City | $500 | $400 |
| Las Vegas | $300 | $250 |
| Orlando | $400 | $350 |
The Best Places for Winter Lovers to Travel in December
Skiing is best done in December if you enjoy winter sports. Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding and ice skating are available in the top winter destinations. These are the top winter destinations to visit during December.
Banff, Canada – Pristine Snow Mountain Adventures
Banff, located in the Canadian Rockies, is a winter wonderland. The area is perfect for winter sports because of its beautiful mountains covered in snow and frozen lakes.
What to do and where to stay?
Enjoy the breathtaking views of downtown Banff and Lake Louise. Additionally, you can ski at Lake Louise Ski Resort, or alternatively, take in the scenery along the Icefields Parkway. Furthermore, Banff Upper Hot Springs provides a perfect place to relax, making it an ideal combination of adventure and leisure.
Zermatt: World-class skiing and Alpine charm
Zermatt, a charming Swiss ski resort, offers top-notch skiing. The Matterhorn Ski Paradise includes Zermatt, which offers a large ski area suitable for all levels of ability.
Christmas in the Swiss Alps
Enjoy a traditional Swiss christmas in Zermatt. Try local wines and Christmas cookies, as well as festive markets and decorations.
Lake Tahoe in the USA: Skiing, Lakeside Beauty
Lake Tahoe, located on the California–Nevada border, firstly offers breathtaking views of the lake and additionally provides excellent skiing opportunities. Moreover, several top-tier resorts are available, including Squaw Valley Ski Resort and Heavenly Mountain Resort, as well as other renowned destinations, making it a premier choice for winter travelers.
Winter Activities for Families
Lake Tahoe offers more than just skiing for families. You can enjoy ice skating or snow tubing. Or take a gondola for a stunning view of the lake.
Escape Winter with Top Warm Weather Destinations
The winter is upon us, and it is tempting to escape to a warmer place. The month of December is ideal for visiting warm places and enjoying fun activities. Enjoy cultural experiences.
Phuket, Thailand – Tropical Paradise during High Season
Phuket, Thailand is a tropical jewel in December. Winter getaways are a great choice. It has beautiful beaches and clear waters. There is also a vibrant nightlife.
The Best Beaches & Excursions
Enjoy Patong Beach, or visit Phang Nga Bay to see the Phi Phi Islands. Phuket offers many activities, including snorkeling, diving and boat tours. You’re guaranteed a trip to remember.
Barbados: Caribbean Bliss and Perfect Weather
Barbados is a great place for those who want to enjoy the sun during winter; in particular, it offers a warm and inviting escape from colder climates. Furthermore, the island uniquely combines British history with vibrant Caribbean culture. In addition, coral reefs and stunning beaches are found throughout the island, thereby making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Local Cuisine and Cultural Experiences
Barbados is a great place to try local food like cou-cou and flying fish. Harrison’s Cave, the historic Bridgetown and other cultural sites are located on Barbados.
Cabo San Lucas Mexico: Sunshine and Whale Observation
Cabo San Lucas lies at the tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. As a result, the city has become a popular destination for travelers looking to escape the cold. Moreover, it offers a wide range of outdoor activities, along with cultural sites and relaxing places, thereby making it an ideal spot for both adventure and leisure.
Adventure Day Trips
El Arco is a great place to go snorkeling or whale watching. Cabo is a great place to visit Todos Santos, Medano Beach and Todos Santos.
The Best Places to Visit in Europe in December
In Europe, December is like entering a winter wonderland. There are many destinations that will make for an enjoyable holiday. Try traditional European cuisine, Christmas markets and holiday celebrations.
Prague, Czech Republic: Fairytale Christmas Markets
Prague is magical during December. The Old Town Square is home to a lovely Christmas market. The market is a great place to get into the holiday spirit.
Old Town Square & Castle District
Old Town Square with its Gothic architecture and Astronomical Clock is a must see. Prague Castle District is a must-see. You can enjoy the city view and St. Vitus Cathedral.
Vienna, Austria: Imperial Christmas Celebrations
Vienna is famous for its extravagant Christmas celebrations. Vienna’s Christmas Market, located in front of City Hall, is a must-see. Visit the Vienna State Opera and enjoy classical concerts.
Classical Concerts & Coffee Houses
Vienna is known for its classical music. The month of December is ideal for operas and concerts. Enjoy hot chocolate and delicious pastries at a coffee shop.
“Vienna knows how to celebrate the Christmas season in style with its festive lights and grand markets.”
Travel Writer
Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas
Strasbourg’s Christmas Market is the reason it’s called “Capital of Christmas”. Visited by millions of people every year. Explore the historic centre, enjoy Alsatian food and traditions, and learn about local customs.
Alsatian Traditions & Great Food
Strasbourg combines French and German culture in its cuisine. Alsatian wines and tarte flambee are local specialties.
| Destination | Main Attraction | Culinary Delight |
| Prague | Christmas Market | Traditional Czech Cuisine |
| Vienna | Imperial Christmas Celebrations | Viennese Coffee and Pastries |
| Strasbourg | Christmas Market | Alsatian Specialties |
These European destinations make the perfect December getaway. These destinations offer a festive atmosphere, cultural experience, and delicious cuisine. You’ll find something for everyone, whether you want to go on a romantic getaway or with your family.
Travel to the Best Places in December, USA
The USA offers something for everyone this December, whether you are looking for a tropical getaway or a winter wonderland. As the holidays approach, many destinations in the USA transform into vibrant and festive locations. These destinations offer a variety of unique experiences.
New York City Holiday Magic
New York City should be on your list of places to visit in December. New York City is known for its holiday markets, ice rinks and iconic displays. The energy in the city is electrifying during this period, which makes it ideal for holiday lovers.
Must-see Holiday Attractions
The Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree is a great way to experience the holiday spirit of New York. Another must-do is ice skating in Central Park or Rockefeller Center. Explore the Holiday Markets in Bryant Park and Union Square to find unique gifts.
Aspen, Colorado – Luxury Skiing and Winter Sports
Aspen’s high-end ski resorts and winter sport facilities are renowned. This is a great destination for those who want to experience luxury. This picturesque town has a variety of activities to offer, including skiing and snowboarding as well as ice skating and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Apres-Ski Scenes and Mountain Views
Enjoy the lively après-ski scene in Aspen after a long day of skiing. In addition, the upscale bars, restaurants, and clubs are all a delight, offering something for every taste. Moreover, you can enjoy the stunning mountain views at the top of Aspen Mountain, or alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the snow-covered streets to soak in the winter atmosphere.
Hawaii, America’s Tropical Paradise All Year Round
Hawaii offers a tropical getaway in December. Hawaii offers a sunny and warm climate that is perfect for those who want to escape the winter cold.
Enjoy Island-hopping and cultural experiences
Explore the Hawaiian Islands and their diverse cultures and landscapes by island-hopping. Enjoy water sports like surfing or snorkeling, or relax on the beautiful beach.
The Cities that Have the Most Spectacular Holiday Celebrations
Some cities are famous for their spectacular holiday celebrations. These cities offer much more than the usual sights. These places offer a unique experience.
London: Victorian Christmas Traditions
London transforms into a winter wonderland over the holidays. The Victorian Christmas tradition is celebrated. Harrods is famous for its exclusive holiday displays.
Harrods Winter Wonderland Shopping
Winter Wonderland is a must-see for any London Christmas trip. There’s ice skating, food stalls, and live music. This is a fun day trip.
Nuremberg: Historic Christkindlesmarkt
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt dates back to the 17th century. There are traditional crafts and delicious food as well as mulled wines. It’s festive and cozy.
Mulled wine and traditional crafts
You’ll find wooden toys and handmade ornaments in the market. You can also try mulled wine or German sweets like Leberkase and Christstollen. These foods will warm you on a cold winter day.
Rovaniemi: the Official Home of Santa Claus
Santa Claus’ official home is Rovaniemi in Finland. The Arctic Circle offers snowmobiling, dog sledding and other winter sports.
Arctic Circle Adventures & Northern Lights
Rovaniemi is more than just Santa Claus Village. Snowshoeing is a great way to see the Northern Lights. Rovaniemi is the only place in Finland where you can see the Northern Lights.
These cities offer a mix of traditional holiday fun and unique experiences. There’s something to suit everyone, whether it’s Christmas dinner in London or a trip to Rovaniemi.
- Enjoy Victorian Christmas traditions in London
- Visit the historic Christkindlesmarkt at Nuremberg.
- Explore the Arctic Circle at Rovaniemi.
Unique December Travel Experiences Around The World
The month of December, to begin with, offers countless opportunities to experience the world’s diverse cultures and breathtaking natural wonders. In addition, this time of year not only provides a wide range of destinations but also presents a variety of unique travel experiences, thereby ensuring that ultimately, every type of interest and travel preference is well satisfied.
Northern Norway: Chase the Northern Lights
Northern Norway in December is the best place to see the Northern Lights. There is little light pollution, and the skies are often clear.
The Best Places to View and Photograph the Show
Tromso and Senja Island are the best places to see the Northern Lights. Use a tripod and low ISO for the best results. Take multiple photos to combine later.
New Zealand: Summer Solstice is in the Southern Hemisphere
New Zealand’s summer solstice, to begin with, takes place in December. As a result, visitors can enjoy not only warm weather but also a wide range of outdoor activities. Moreover, the long daylight hours, combined with pleasant temperatures, therefore make this time of year especially ideal for exploring and adventure.
Outdoor Adventures & Beach Celebrations
Popular activities include hiking, surfing and beach visits. The beach also hosts summer solstice celebrations with fireworks, bonfires and barbecues.
Japan: Traditional New Years Preparations
In Japan, December is a crucial month for the preparations of New Year (Oshogatsu). These efforts can be watched or participated in by visitors to immerse themselves in the culture.
Temple Visits and Cultural Practices
Temples and shrines prepare for the New year. Visitors can participate by cleaning their homes, visiting temples and experiencing traditional foods and customs.
Here are some of the best places to enjoy December. There’s plenty to do, whether you want natural wonders, cultural experiences, or the Summer Solstice.
National Parks Worth Visiting In December
The month of December is an excellent time to visit national parks. In particular, it is an ideal season because the weather is often pleasant and, at the same time, there are fewer people. As a result, this creates a perfect opportunity to enjoy the stunning landscapes of America peacefully and without crowds.
Death Valley National Park: Perfect Desert Weather
Death Valley National Park, to begin with, makes an excellent choice for a December visit. During this time, the weather is not only pleasant but also ideal for exploring and hiking. Moreover, the park consequently offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape, including vast salt flats and dramatic sand dunes, thereby making the overall experience truly unforgettable.
Bryce Canyon National Park – Snow-Dusted Red Rock Formations
Bryce Canyon transforms into a winter wonderland during December. Snow-dusted red rocks are breathtaking. The snow-covered rocks are a beautiful backdrop for hiking and photography.
Everglades National Park – Prime Wildlife Viewing season
Wildlife lovers, to begin with, will truly enjoy visiting Everglades National Park in December. During this period, the cooler weather is not only more comfortable but also ideal for wildlife viewing and exciting airboat tours. As a result, visitors can easily spot a wide variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and manatees, thereby making the experience both memorable and rewarding.
| National Park | December Highlights | Activities |
| Death Valley | Mild Desert Weather | Hiking and exploring |
| Bryce Canyon | Snow-dusted red rocks | Photographing hiking |
| Everglades | Wildlife viewing at its best | Airboat tours and wildlife viewing |
Cheap December Destinations
Are you looking for cheap vacations in December? If so, these are some of the best places to visit for an affordable and enjoyable trip during this month. In addition, these destinations offer a balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, all while keeping costs low.
Explore new places in December, as this month offers unique opportunities for travel. For instance, you can take advantage of festive markets and at the same time enjoy lower prices at many destinations. Therefore, these locations represent our top choices for affordable and memorable travel in December.
Lisbon, Portugal – European charm without the crowds
Lisbon is an excellent choice for a December vacation on a budget. In particular, it is a city with a rich cultural heritage, historic neighborhoods, and beautiful views. Moreover, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city without the summer crowds, thereby experiencing all that Lisbon has to offer in a more relaxed and affordable way.
Lisbon Must-try Activities
- Discover the history of Alfama
- Belem Tower – Visit it
- Traditional Portuguese cuisine is delicious
Oaxaca: Mild weather and cultural celebrations in Mexico
Oaxaca’s vibrant culture and delicious food are well-known throughout Mexico and beyond. In addition, the city celebrates Posadas in December with lively and fun festivities. Furthermore, the weather during this time is mild, making it an ideal destination for both cultural exploration and outdoor enjoyment.
Oaxaca Day Trip Ideas
- Monte Alban is home to ancient Zapotec Ruins
- Tule is a picturesque town.
- Enjoy the stunning beaches of Puerto Escondido
Chiang Mai Thailand: Festivals and Luxury at Affordable Prices
Chiang Mai, a renowned cultural center in northern Thailand, is widely known for its stunning temples, bustling markets, and vibrant street food scene. In addition to this, the city’s lively atmosphere is furthermore enriched by its deep-rooted traditions and distinctive local culture. Moreover, especially during December, events such as the Chiang Mai Winter Festival and other seasonal celebrations not only add to the city’s charm but also make this time of year, in particular, an ideal and memorable period to visit.
| Destination | Average December Temperature | Attractions |
| Lisbon, Portugal | 12degC (54degF) | Belem Tower and its surrounding neighborhoods |
| Oaxaca is located in Mexico | 18degC (64degF) | Posadas, ancient ruins |
| Chiang Mai, Thailand | 22degC (72degF) | Temples, Chiang Mai Winter Festival |
Plan Your Perfect December Getaway
The month of December is an exciting time to travel, as it offers a wide variety of experiences. To begin with, there are many places to see and explore. For example, winter sports, warm temperatures, and rich cultural experiences are all available during this time. In particular, winter sports enthusiasts will enjoy destinations such as Banff, Zermatt, or Lake Tahoe. On the other hand, travelers seeking sunshine can head to Phuket, or alternatively, choose Barbados or Cabo San Luis for a warm and relaxing getaway.
In December, to begin with, European cities such as Prague, Vienna, and Strasbourg stand out as excellent destinations. Likewise, in the United States, New York City emerges as a fantastic choice for winter travel. Moreover, Aspen and Hawaii also rank among the top options for travelers seeking variety and contrast. At the same time, cities like London, Nuremberg, and Rovaniemi are particularly appealing, as a result of their spectacular holiday celebrations. Ultimately, for those who prefer natural beauty, on the other hand, visiting national parks such as Death Valley, Bryce Canyon, and the Everglades can be an equally rewarding experience.
You can create a memorable December vacation by first following the advice in this article. Consequently, you can make memories that will last a lifetime. Moreover, regardless of your travel goals, with careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your trip is not only stress-free but also enjoyable and truly unforgettable. In addition, these steps help maximize both adventure and relaxation during your holiday.
The FAQ
Where can you travel to in December and enjoy warm weather?
Try Cabo San Lucas in Mexico, Barbados, or Phuket, Thailand, for warm weather. There is a lot to do and great weather in these places.
What are the best destinations to visit in December?
Lisbon, Portugal, Oaxaca Mexico, and Chiang Mai Thailand are all affordable. These are perfect for budget travelers.
What unique travel experiences can you have in December?
In New Zealand, you can celebrate the summer solstice or see the Northern Lights. Japan’s preparations for the New Year are also unique.
Can I visit National Parks in December?
It is true that December is the best time to visit national parks such as Death Valley, Bryce Canyon and Everglades. It’s less crowded and the weather is great.
Where are the best places in Europe to visit in December?
Europe offers many different holiday experiences. Prague, Vienna and Strasbourg have great Christmas markets.
What are some great day trip suggestions for December?
Consider day trips to nearby attractions or cities. You can visit the Rocky Mountains or Germany’s Christmas market in winter.
What are some of the best food options for Christmas dinner?
The food in Vienna and Strasbourg, France is famous. You can enjoy traditional Christmas treats at their restaurants.
Can I enjoy the winter sun in December?
It’s true that places like Barbados, Barbados, and Phuket in Thailand have warm temperatures during December. These places are perfect for a winter getaway.