Best Places To Travel In December: Top Destinations & Tips

Best Places to Travel in December: Warm Getaways, Snowy Escapes, and Festive Cities

By the time December rolls around, most of us have earned a break. The year has been a marathon, and the finish line is in sight. What better way to celebrate than by trading your regular routine for a change of scenery? If you are dreaming of a whirlwind tour through European capitals dressed in their holiday finest, or you’re searching for warm places in December to thaw out your bones, this is the perfect time to press pause on the ordinary. 

I’ve rounded up the ultimate guide to the best December vacations – so you can spend less time planning and more time imagining yourself there.

Best Places to Travel in December for Warm Weather

When the northern hemisphere starts bundling up, half the world is just slipping into their swimsuits. If your ideal December soundtrack involves waves crashing rather than sleigh bells jingling, these warm places in December are calling your name. These are the best places to travel in December for warm weather.

Caribbean Islands for Beach Holidays

The Caribbean in December is, to put it simply, perfection in the meaning of the best places to travel in December. You’ve got the “winter sun” without the intense humidity of summer. The islands have shaken off the rainy season, and the temperatures hover in that dreamy low-80s range. Plus, the island vibes during the holidays are unmatched.

If you are looking for tropical destinations December, you can’t go wrong with the US Virgin Islands (St. John is a national park paradise) or the Dominican Republic for sprawling all-inclusive resorts. For a more unique vibe, head to Grenada. It’s less crowded than Jamaica or the Bahamas, and the spice-scented air makes for a uniquely sensory best December vacation.

Southeast Asia for Tropical Adventures

Southeast Asia hits its dry season in December, making it arguably one of the best places to visit in December on the planet. Thailand is the obvious rockstar here. Imagine celebrating Christmas on a longtail boat in Phang Nga Bay or ringing in the New Year on a rooftop in Bangkok.

But don’t overlook Vietnam. The weather in places like Hoi An and Da Nang is glorious. You can explore ancient towns in shorts and a t-shirt, eat street food without sweating through your shirt, and pay next to nothing for a beachfront bungalow. For backpackers and luxury seekers alike, these are top-tier December travel destinations.

Mexico and Central America for Affordable Sunshine

Mexico is a staple for warm vacation spots in December, and for good reason. The Pacific coast (think Puerto Vallarta and Cabo) is dry and sunny, while the Riviera Maya offers that perfect mix of history and relaxation. You can explore Mayan ruins in the morning and sip a margarita on the beach by afternoon.

A little further south, Costa Rica is bursting at the seams with biodiversity. December marks the start of the dry season on the Pacific side, meaning perfect conditions for zip-lining through the cloud forests or spotting sloths in Manuel Antonio. It’s an adventure playground wrapped in sunshine.

Australia and New Zealand for Summer Travel

Remember, when it’s freezing in New York, it’s BBQ weather in Sydney. Australia and New Zealand offer a complete flip of the calendar. This is the start of their summer, which means school is out and the energy is high.

Sydney is electric in December, with Christmas lights and summer festivals colliding in a beautiful mess of tinsel and thongs (flip-flops, that is). Meanwhile, New Zealand is a paradise for hikers and road-trippers. The days are long, the lupines are blooming in the South Island, and you can trade snow boots for hiking boots.

Best Places to Travel in December for Snow and Winter Magic

On the flip side, some of us want to lean into the cold. We want the frost on the windowpane, the heavy coats, and the excuse to drink hot chocolate at 10 a.m. If you are looking for snowy destinations December, this is your list.

European Christmas Market Destinations

Is there anything more romantic than a European Christmas market? I don’t think so. The smell of mulled wine (glühwein), roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread wafts through the air as you wander through centuries-old squares. These are the quintessential Christmas travel destinations.

Vienna turns into an imperial winter wonderland, with Rathausplatz hosting a market straight out of a storybook. Prague is equally enchanting – the Gothic architecture dusted with snow creates a backdrop that is almost too picturesque. And let’s not forget Strasbourg, France, known as the “Capital of Christmas.” These cities are prime best places to travel in December in Europe for that classic holiday feeling.

Lapland and Arctic Experiences

If you want to go full-on Frozen, head to Lapland. Straddling northern Finland and Sweden, this is the home of Santa Claus. But it’s not just for kids.

Chasing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) is a bucket-list experience for adults. Imagine staying in a glass igloo, watching the green and purple lights dance across the sky from the warmth of your bed. You can go husky sledding, ride snowmobiles across frozen lakes, and stay in ice hotels. It’s expensive, sure, but it’s the best place to travel to in December that you will never, ever forget.

U.S. Mountain Towns for Snowy Escapes

You don’t need to cross the Atlantic to find winter travel destinations. The United States is littered with postcard-perfect mountain towns. Think Jackson Hole, Wyoming, with its rugged, wild west vibe meeting luxury ski lodges. Or Stowe, Vermont, where covered bridges look even better with a layer of fresh powder.

Lake Tahoe in California is another stunner. The contrast of the deep blue lake against the white mountains is breathtaking. These towns offer that cozy cabin vibe – fireplaces, plaid blankets, and stunning mountain views.

Canadian Winter Wonderland Cities

Canada owns winter. Our neighbors to the north know how to do cold right. Quebec City transforms into a slice of old France with a snowy twist. The cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, the giant snow slides, and the sheer romance of the place make it one of the top places to visit in December.

Banff is the ultimate mountain town. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, you can ski at Sunshine Village, soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs while snow falls on your head, and wander the charming town streets. It’s a winter paradise.

Best Places to Travel in December in the USA

For those staying stateside, you have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to places to visit in December USA. From the concrete jungle to volcanic islands and silent deserts, here are the heavy hitters you should consider.

New York City During the Holidays

Love it or find it overwhelming, New York City at Christmas is undeniably iconic. It’s the backdrop for a hundred movies for a reason. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes, the towering Norway Spruce at Rockefeller Center dripping with lights, the elaborate window displays on Fifth Avenue (Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue are the ones to beat) – it’s a sensory overload in the best way possible. Ice skating at the rink in Central Park (Wollman Rink) feels like a scene from a movie because it is the scene from about twelve different movies.

Yes, it’s crowded. You will be shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists from around the world who also chose this as where to travel in December. Yes, it’s cold, and the wind whipping down the avenues can be biting. But here’s the thing: walking through the city when it’s all lit up, possibly with a light dusting of snow muffling the sounds of traffic, looking at the Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn, or just grabbing a hot dog from a cart while watching the chao – it’s a feeling of collective joy that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.

Aspen and Colorado Ski Resorts

If you are looking for the best December holidays centered around luxury skiing, Aspen is the celebrity of the slopes. It’s glamorous, it’s expensive, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. But Colorado has so much more to offer than just Aspen. Telluride is a hidden gem tucked away in a box canyon surrounded by majestic peaks. The views from the ski lifts are jaw-dropping, and the historic downtown – a National Historic Landmark District – has a laid-back, Victorian-era charm that feels untouched.

Breckenridge offers a historic Main Street that rivals any Christmas market in Europe, with a fun, vibrant, and welcoming vibe that caters to families and solo travelers alike. The skiing is fantastic, the town is walkable, and the number of breweries per capita is impressively high. Then there’s Vail, with its massive ski area and pedestrian-friendly Bavarian-style village. It’s a purpose-built winter paradise.

Hawaii for a Tropical Christmas

Want to confuse your senses in the most delightful way? When deciding where to travel in December, consider going to Hawaii for Christmas – there is something wonderfully absurd and joyous about trading the cold, the snow shovels, and the heavy coats for a floral lei, the smell of plumeria, and the sound of ukuleles. 

You can trade the traditional turkey dinner for a beachfront luau with kalua pig and poi, and seeing Santa Claus paddling an outrigger canoe onto the beach is the kind of memory that sticks with you, proving that the best vacations in December don’t always involve snow. The weather is perfect – it’s the “cooler” season, but that still means highs in the low 80s, making it not too hot for hiking Diamond Head and absolutely perfect for swimming.

Plus, December marks the peak of whale-watching season in Maui. The humpback whales return to the warm waters to breed and give birth, and you can see them breaching from the shore or on a boat tour. It’s a unique way to spend the holidays and a strong contender for one of the best warm vacation spots in December.

National Parks With Fewer Crowds

Believe it or not, December is a fantastic time to visit many of America’s national parks. The summer crowds that clog the roads and fill the parking lots are long gone, and the parks take on a stark, silent, almost spiritual beauty.

• Zion National Park (Utah): While the famous Narrows hike might be too cold and potentially closed due to high water, the canyon views from the canyon floor are spectacular without the crowds. Angels Landing permits are easier to get, though you’ll need microspikes if there’s ice.
• Bryce Canyon (Utah): This is the money shot in winter. The hoodoos – those weird and wonderful red rock spires – look absolutely incredible when they are covered in a blanket of snow. The contrast of the red rock and the white snow is otherworldly, and the air is so crisp and clear.
• Death Valley (California): Believe it or not, this is the absolute best time to visit one of the hottest places on Earth. The scorching summer heat that can reach 120°F gives way to pleasant, cool hiking weather. You can explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, hike to the bottom of Ubehebe Crater, and stand on the salt flats of Badwater Basin without feeling like you’re in an oven. It’s totally different places to go in December for the adventurous soul.

Best Places to Travel in December in Europe

Europe in December is truly split into two camps: the frosty, festive north with its twinkling markets, and the mild, historical south where you can still have a coffee on a terrace. Here are the best places to travel to in December on the continent, broken down by vibe.

Germany and Austria for Christmas Markets

This is ground zero for Christmas markets. If you are looking for the best countries to visit in December for this specific purpose, Germany and Austria are the undisputed heavyweights.

• Nuremberg, Germany: The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous in the world, dating back to the 16th century. It’s known for its traditional vibe – only “pure” items made of materials like wood, cloth, and metal are allowed to be sold. The gingerbread (lebkuchen) here is legendary, and the official market opener, the “Christkind,” is a local celebrity.
• Munich, Germany: Munich offers multiple markets, but the one in Marienplatz in front of the New Town Hall is spectacular. For something quirkier, head to the Medieval Christmas market at the Wittelsbacher Platz, where vendors dress in period costumes.
• Salzburg, Austria: Imagine walking through the market in the beautiful Dom- and Residenzplatz square, with the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress looming overhead, possibly covered in a dusting of snow. It feels like The Sound of Music meets a Hallmark holiday card. The market here is known for its high-quality arts and crafts.

Switzerland for Alpine Scenery

Switzerland in December is pure luxury, even if you’re just there to look and spend your money on hot chocolate. The towns are pristine, the air is clean, and the scenery is absolutely world-class.

• Zermatt: This car-free village at the base of the iconic Matterhorn is a dream. The main street is lined with luxury shops and cozy hotels. You can ski some of the best slopes in the Alps, or simply take the Gornergrat railway up the mountain for jaw-dropping views of the peak and the surrounding glaciers.
• Interlaken: Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and surrounded by mountains, Interlaken is the adventure capital of Switzerland. In December, it’s a gateway to the Jungfrau region. The trains are warm and efficient, and the views out the window as you ascend to places like Grindelwald or Wengen are postcard-perfect at every turn. It’s expensive, yes, but for a special, once-in-a-lifetime occasion, it’s arguably the best place to visit in December for pure, unadulterated scenic beauty.

Spain and Portugal for Mild Winter Weather

If you want to experience Europe but you absolutely don’t want to freeze, head to the Iberian Peninsula. The weather in December is mild, often featuring sunny days and temperatures that can reach the high 50s or low 60s°F (14-17°C). It’s perfect for walking around cities without the oppressive summer heat.

• Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon is a city of seven hills, trams, and stunning viewpoints (miradouros). In December, you can explore the Alfama district, listen to melancholic Fado music, and eat more pastéis de nata (custard tarts) than is medically advisable – all without the summer tourist crush. It’s a charming, affordable, and vibrant city.
• Porto, Portugal: Even further north, Porto is equally charming. You can tour the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge, and enjoy the riverside atmosphere.
• Seville, Spain: In southern Spain, Seville is even warmer. You might be able to sit on a sunny terrace in December. The Real Alcázar palace is less crowded, and wandering through the Santa Cruz neighborhood with its orange trees and white-washed walls is a pure delight.

Scandinavia for Northern Lights

While the capital cities (Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo) are beautiful but very cold and dark in December, the far north of Scandinavia offers the ultimate natural light show.

• Tromsø, Norway: Dubbed the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is one of the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights. It’s located right in the middle of the auroral oval. Beyond the lights, you get the unique culture of the indigenous Sami people, the chance to try reindeer stew, and a vibrant university city atmosphere with surprising amounts of great food and nightlife for being so far north. It’s one of the rugged, wild, and incredibly beautiful December vacation ideas.

Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget

Traveling in December usually means high prices, especially around the holidays. But if you know where to look and how to be strategic, you can find some incredible December travel deals. The secret is to zag while everyone else zigs.

Affordable Asian Destinations

While Thailand and Vietnam are busy (and prices rise accordingly in tourist hubs), they are still relatively cheap compared to Europe or the US. However, for even better value, look just next door.

• Cambodia: December is perfect for visiting Angkor Wat. The weather is dry and relatively cool. While Siem Reap has plenty of tourism, the costs for food, accommodation, and transport are significantly lower than in Thailand. Plus, the beaches in the south, like Sihanoukville, are an option, though they are rapidly developing.
• Laos: This landlocked best country to visit in December is a true gem for budget travelers. It’s a bit harder to get to and travel through (which keeps crowds down), but places like Luang Prabang – a UNESCO town with glittering temples and a nightly market – are magical. The pace of life is slower, the French colonial architecture is beautiful, and your dollar goes a very long way.

Eastern Europe Value Cities

Instead of Vienna or Paris, which will charge a premium for their famous markets, look east. The cities are just as beautiful, the Christmas markets are authentic, and the prices are a fraction of the cost.

• Kraków, Poland: Its main square – one of Europe’s largest medieval squares – hosts a December market filled with amber, wooden toys, and hearty food like pierogi. It’s also a base for visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau. For cultural depth on your best places to vacation in December list, Kraków delivers.
• Budapest, Hungary: Stunning in December, Budapest’s markets at Vorosmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica are lively. The ultimate winter activity? Soaking in the steamy Széchenyi Thermal Baths while locals play chess. Dinner with goulash costs a fraction of Western Europe. It’s a top where to go in December pick for romance on a budget.

Budget-Friendly U.S. Getaways

Instead of Aspen or Vail, look at lesser-known but equally charming ski towns.

• Whitefish, Montana: Near Glacier National Park, this historic town offers access to Whitefish Mountain Resort with genuine vibes and prices far below Colorado mega-resorts. 
• Taos, New Mexico: A unique blend of high-desert landscape, world-class skiing at Taos Ski Valley, and deep Native American history. Adobe architecture and a vibrant art scene make it a culturally rich alternative – one of the most unique places to travel in December in the Southwest.
• The Southeast Coast: While the Caribbean peaks, the Southeastern US coast is dead quiet. Gulf Shores, Alabama, or the Outer Banks, North Carolina, are too cold for swimming but perfect for contemplative winter walks. Snag off-season rental deals and have the shoreline to yourself. 

Best Places to Travel in December for Couples

Need some romance this December? Whether you want to cuddle by a fire or hold hands on a sunset beach, these are the best places to visit in December for couples.

Romantic European Cities

• Prague: The Charles Bridge at dawn, with a dusting of snow and no tourists, is a magical moment for two.
• Bruges, Belgium: Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a fairytale. It’s small, walkable, and filled with chocolate shops and cozy pubs.

Tropical Island Retreats

• Seychelles or Mauritius: If budget is no object, these Indian Ocean islands are the pinnacle of romance. Secluded beaches, luxury resorts, and incredible privacy.
• St. Lucia: The Caribbean’s most dramatic island, with the iconic Pitons mountains providing a backdrop for honeymoon-worthy sunsets.

Cozy Cabin and Mountain Escapes

• The Smoky Mountains (Gatlinburg): Rent a cabin with a hot tub overlooking the misty mountains. It’s classic, cozy Americana.
• Lake Placid, New York: An Adirondack gem that hosted the Winter Olympics. It’s quiet, beautiful, and perfect for couples who love the outdoors.

Best Places to Travel in December for Families

Traveling with kids in December is all about creating magic. Here’s where to find it.

Theme Parks and Holiday Events

• Walt Disney World, Orlando: Mickey in a Santa hat? Yes, please. Disney goes all out for Christmas. The parks are decorated to the nines, and the special events (like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party) are worth the price of admission alone.
• Leavenworth, Washington: This Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains goes absolutely bonkers for Christmas. It’s a sensory explosion of lights, ornaments, and “Christmas magic” that kids will adore.

All-Inclusive Beach Resorts

For parents, “vacation” sometimes means not having to cook or clean. All-inclusive resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, or Jamaica are perfect for this. Many have kids’ clubs, so the little ones are entertained while mom and dad grab 15 minutes of peace with a cocktail.

Snow Activities for Kids

• Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: A midwestern classic. They have massive snow tubing hills, ice castles, and a downtown that looks like a Hallmark movie.
• Big Bear, California: Close to Los Angeles, this is where SoCal kids go to see snow. You can sled, ski, or just build a snowman for the first time.

Best Places to Travel in December for Adventure Seekers

If sitting still isn’t your style, December offers some thrilling options.

Skiing and Snowboarding Destinations

The pros chase the powder. Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, Chamonix in France, and Niseko in Japan are the holy trinity for serious skiers. Niseko, in particular, is famous for its incredible, light, dry powder snow.

Wildlife Safaris

• South Africa: It’s summer, the landscapes are lush, and the animals are active. It’s also the time for baby animals.
• Costa Rica: As mentioned, the dry season starts, making wildlife spotting easier as animals gather around water sources.
• Galapagos Islands: The weather is warm, the seas are calm, and you can see a unique mix of wildlife from both land and sea.

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Hiking in Mild-Climate Regions

If you want to hike but avoid snow, look at the desert southwest USA. The best places to travel in December for hiking include Joshua Tree National Park and Sedona. The red rocks of Sedona are particularly stunning under a clear blue winter sky.

Best Places to Travel in December for Christmas and New Year’s Eve

Iconic New Year’s Eve Cities

• Sydney, Australia: One of the first major cities to ring in the new year, the fireworks over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House are legendary.
• Edinburgh, Scotland: The Hogmanay celebration is a three-day street party with torchlight processions, massive concerts, and a uniquely Scottish vibe.
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Millions of people in white descend on Copacabana Beach for fireworks and massive parties.

Festive Cultural Celebrations Around the World

• Reykjavik, Iceland: The Icelanders have a tradition of fireworks that is absolutely chaotic and beautiful. They also believe in 13 Santas (the Yule Lads) who are more trickster than saint.
• Oaxaca, Mexico: The “Noche de Rábanos” (Night of the Radishes) on December 23rd is a quirky and fascinating tradition where artists carve intricate scenes out of giant radishes.

Fireworks and Winter Festivals

London puts on a massive fireworks display along the Thames (tickets required!). Hong Kong also has a stunning skyline show. For something different, check out the Gion-Shirakawa area in Kyoto, which is often lit up beautifully for the holidays.

How to Choose the Best Places to Travel in December

Okay, so you have a massive list. How do you actually decide on the best places to travel in December? Here is the practical advice.

Weather Considerations by Region

Be realistic about what you can handle.

• The Tropics: Look for the “dry season” (Caribbean, SE Asia) to avoid daily downpours.
• Europe: Southern Europe (Spain, Italy) is cold but not freezing; Northern Europe is freezing and dark. Central Europe is cold and snowy but incredibly festive.
• The Mountains: Check snow reports if you want to ski. If you don’t want snow, avoid high altitudes.

Peak vs Off-Peak Travel Costs

Here is a simple breakdown of what to expect cost-wise.

Destination Type	Peak Season?	Cost Trend	Example
Classic Christmas Markets	Peak	High	Germany, Austria
Caribbean Beaches	Peak	High	Bahamas, Jamaica
Ski Resorts	Peak	Very High	Aspen, Chamonix
Major Cities (NYC, London)	Peak	High	New York, Paris
Southeast Asia	Peak (Dry)	Medium (value)	Thailand, Vietnam
Off-Season Europe (City Breaks)	Off-Peak	Low (deals!)	Rome, Lisbon
US National Parks (Desert)	Shoulder	Medium	Zion, Death Valley
South America	Peak (Summer)	Medium	Peru, Ecuador

Booking Flights and Hotels Early

If you are going to a peak destination (like the ones at the top of the table), you absolutely must book early. Like, September-early October early. Flights on the exact days around Christmas and New Year’s are the most expensive of the year. If you are flexible on dates (traveling Dec 1-15 or after Jan 3), you can find December travel deals that are much more reasonable.

Best Places to Travel in December FAQs