December seems to be one of the most popular times of year to travel worldwide. It makes sense: people are eager to use the vacation days they’ve saved up all year, “the holidays” are coming up, and many travelers want to experience what Christmas is like in another culture.
If you want to find out what some of the best places to travel to in December are, stick around, because this list has options all around the world. Come along for a wintry, beachy, safari-filled ride!
Europe
1. Azores, Portugal
The Azores are a dreamy wonderland in the winter. Expect some dreary weather and fog, but if you pack accordingly, you’ll be thrilled to have these beautiful volcanic islands to yourself. Check out Flores and São Miguel, and consider staying in one of these beautiful hotels. Because these islands are so remote, we put together a guide on how to get around to make the most of your vacation.
2. Stuttgart, Germany
If you get super excited about Christmas, Stuttgart is one of the best bases in December for Germany’s world-famous Christmas markets. In and around the city, you’ll find several Christmas markets that are in full holiday cheer during the entire month, each with its own unique theme (including one dedicated entirely to chocolate). Though other places replicate markets like these, there’s truly no place like Germany for them.
From the quintessential warm, spicy aromas and the mouthwatering gastronomy to the twinkling lights and crisp winter air, Stuttgart is the spot for Weihnachten this December.
3. Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria
Looking to hit the slopes this December? There are few locations better than Saalbach-Hinterglemm in the Austrian Alps. This ski resort takes pride in its cool, mountain-retreat vibe and stellar variety of slopes, ranging from complete beginner to pro level. With the stunning-beyond-words backdrop of the Alps, Saalbach is easily one of the most beautiful places to ski, snowshoe-hike, and explore.
Christmas decorations blanket the entire town during the month of December, creating a magical atmosphere fit for any holiday vacation. Consider staying at Boutique Hotel Anybody, as it’s only 300 meters from the ski lifts.
4. Rovaniemi, Finland
I might argue that the best place to visit in December would have to be the home of the one and only Santa Claus, which is why Rovaniemi, Finland, is an essential entry on this list. Part of Finnish Lapland, this small city inside the Arctic Circle, where ice and snow reign supreme during this month, has its own Santa Claus Village.
Also check out (or stay at) the mystical SnowHotel, which is carved from snow and ice every year. It includes glass igloos with transparent domes, meaning you can watch the glimmer of the northern lights across the night sky before you go to sleep. Make sure to book your room well in advance.
5. London, United Kingdom
Who doesn’t want to live out their Love, Actually fantasy by heading to London in December? There’s a magical quality that the British capital has during the holiday season. The twinkling lights are truly next-level, the classic red phone booths match the holiday decorations, and there are abundant Christmas markets throughout town, each with a unique theme.
During this time of year, there are bus tours specifically for checking out the Christmas lights. Yeah, they’re that good.
6. Florence, Italy
Florence is the capital of Tuscany, one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. Not only is it a cultural hub with amazing museums, fantastic food, and charming cobblestone streets to explore, but it’s also home to some of the most iconic architecture in the country.
Sure, you can visit Florence any time of year and have a blast. The high season coincides with summer, but most tourists have cleared out by December, when the city remains lively but isn’t as packed. Plus, the weather is quite mild, and there are lots of cute, twinkling Christmas lights. It’s a win-win if you ask me!
Check out this seasonal Christmas Magic tour to get the full experience of December in Florence.
7. Iceland
There are some definite pros and cons to visiting Iceland in the winter. While some areas might be more difficult to access, others are actually ideal for December. The Icelandic Highlands are an incredible sight to see this time of year, plus it’s the perfect period in which to get a glimpse of the northern lights.
Start your trip in Reykyavik, then consider departing on a road trip along either the Ring Road or the Golden Circle. Don’t miss out on the hot springs, as they’re particularly beautiful and fun in December.
North America
8. Florida Keys road trip
One of the best winter vacations in the USA is a road trip through the Florida Keys. There’s world-class snorkeling, beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants, and exciting tours and excursions in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and of course, Key West. If you’re new to Florida, check out our solo traveler guide to this amazing state.
Winter in the Florida Keys is generally pretty crowded, but that just adds to the hype. If you want to avoid some of the crowds, spend most of your time in Big Pine Key.
9. Big Island, Hawai’i
If fleeing freezing temperatures is a priority for you this December, the Big Island can meet all your beachy needs. Here you’ll find mind-blowing places to snorkel, some of the best beaches in the state of Hawai’i, and tons of interesting, offbeat accommodations.
There’s enough to do on the Big Island for any length of stay. Find ideas for your three-day, one-week, or two-week Big Island itinerary here.
Like many other locations on this list, December is a popular time to visit Hawai’i, and it can get crowded toward the end of the month. To avoid this as much as possible, opt to travel to Hawai’i at the beginning of the month.
10. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada
You might have heard that Death Valley is one of the absolute best places to see in December in the USA, so it should come as no surprise that it also makes our worldwide list. California’s spectacular desert landscapes can be nearly intolerable in the summer months, due to the scorching heat. That’s why December is prime time to climb the dunes, venture to Golden Canyon, or marvel at the colorful Artist’s Palette.
Whether you’re hitting up other California deserts or plan to make Death Valley your sole destination, you’re in for a treat here this December. Don’t miss this Death Valley guide while you’re putting together your itinerary.
11. Moab, Utah
Firey red-rock formations, massive arches, and canyons that look nearly bottomless all await you in Moab this December. This charming town is sandwiched between two of Utah’s best national parks: Arches and Canyonlands. Both are spectacular, and both are incredible in the wintertwhen you might get the occasional blanket of stark white snow over the reddish orange landscape.
Besides the added beauty of contrasting colors, this is a stellar month to visit Moab, Utah, because it’s much less crowded than other times of the year. You might be able to snag a deal on accommodations, and popular places like Delicate Arch and Mesa Arch won’t be nearly as busy as the late spring to early fall months.
Get all the info you need to visit Moab here.
12. Alberta, Canada
If you are ready to fully embrace the unique beauty of winter, the province of Alberta is the December destination for you. This Canadian gem is famous for its spectacular landscapes and subzero temperatures, making it a proper winter wonderland.
Winters in Alberta feel like the real-life version of a snow globe, so it’s no surprise that this part of Canada is a popular destination this month. To avoid crowds as much as possible, visit before Christmas.
Start scoping out your photo spots with some Alberta winter inspo here.
13. Riviera Maya, Mexico
If you’re hoping for a serene beach vacation, December on the Riviera Maya might not be for you, because it’s the most crowded time of year. However, if you don’t mind the influx of tourism to the region, the spectacular weather will make the trip totally worth it. It’s the coolest part of the year in Mexico, with the most sunshine, which is the best of both worlds.
There’s so much to do on the Riviera Maya, and the best way to get the most out of it is to rent a car in Cancún and embark on a road trip down the Caribbean coast. This way, you can get to some off-the-beaten-path cenotes near Cancún and Tulum. Some other can’t-miss places are Isla Holbox, Tulum itself, and Bacalar.
14. The Bahamas
The Bahamas are a beautiful archipelago just off the coast of Florida (here are nine of the best islands in the Bahamas!) There are plenty of magical things to do here, like swimming with pigs in Staniel Cay and snorkeling the road to Atlantis in Bimini. The water is so clear you can see starfish twenty feet down!
The weather in December couldn’t be better, with clear skies and milder temperatures. There might be an occasional nor’easter that blows through, so pack a sweater just in case!
Central & South America
15. Monteverde, Costa Rica
Tucked away in the lush mountains of central Costa Rica lies Monteverde, one of the most beautiful places in the country. It is home to several cloud forests, where dense jungles house moss-covered trees and mysterious bouts of fog, not to mention some of the longest hanging bridges in all of Central America, along with ample opportunities to zip-line (among other fun activities and things to do).
Even though there will definitely be ample tourists here in December, there are so many miles of hiking trails in the parks that you’ll still be able to find some peace and connection with nature, especially solo.
Although December is part of the high season in Costa Rica, visiting early in the month is still a great option. The weather is fantastic this time of year, with less rain and more sunshine. Monteverde is one of the chilliest parts of the country, though, so prepare for cold nights.
16. Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru, is most famous for being the launching point for the legendary Machu Picchu archaeological site, but that’s only the beginning. If you’re looking for somewhere to go this December that has lively city streets surrounded by rolling mountain peaks, a strong cultural identity, and plenty of outdoorsy things to do, Cusco is the place for you.
While December is undoubtedly one of the most popular times in Cusco, and you might experience thick crowds, it’s summer here, and the weather is ideal for a hike.
Find out what else there is to do in Cusco here.
17. Bariloche, Argentina
Speaking of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, December is the perfect month to see Argentinian Patagonia. Bariloche is the gateway to the region and is absolutely beautiful this time of year. The lakes are glistening, the trees are vibrantly green, and the trails nearby are waiting for you to explore them.
All the best hikes around town, along with other things to do, can be found in this Bariloche guide.
18. San Pedro de Atacama Desert, Chile
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, is the ultimate rugged adventure, full of surprises and incredible scenery. The best way to experience it is to rent a camper van, so you can have the freedom to wander where you please, spending as long as you’d like in each place. However, if you want more structure and the bonus of having a guide, a tour like this one is ideal.
December is one of the driest months in the sprawling San Pedro de Atacama Desert (already one of the driest in the world), which makes it the best time for stargazing. Since the desert gets unbearably cold at night in the winter (i.e., summer in the Northern Hemisphere), visiting in the Chilean summer (December) is also best for camping.
19. Santa Cruz Island, the Galápagos, Ecuador
Many visitors to the Galápagos start their adventure on Santa Cruz Island, as it’s the largest and most populated. Therefore, Santa Cruz has plenty to do, such as lava tubes, tons of wildlife (including giant tortoises!), massive craters, and some stellar scuba diving spots. If you love it here, you might want to do a Galápagos Island cruise while you’re at it.
Considering that December is popular, since the weather is beautiful this time of year, you’ll want to book your accommodations well in advance, though there are many budget options here.
20. Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is on many travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason. This city on Colombia’s northern coast is full of gorgeous architecture, an easily walkable downtown area, beautiful beaches, and the delightful sounds of salsa music around every corner. There are several islands off Cartagena’s coast that are a delight when the weather is like this.
It is one of the best places to travel in December, because the weather is cooler, making it more comfortable. Plus, Colombia has a whole host of interesting Christmas traditions, so visiting during the holidays means you’ll get an authentic look at the country’s culture. Cartagena is also full of street vendors selling Christmas gifts and specialty foods during this time of year, making it extra special.
21. Aruba
Delicate, soft, white-sand beaches with perhaps the clearest blue water you’ve ever seen await you in Aruba. When it comes to Caribbean island paradises, this one has some of the most picture-perfect beaches. Choose Aruba this December if you’re dying to escape the cold and need a heavy dose of “vitamin sea.” (And don’t miss this epic list of the best things to do in Aruba while you’re planning.)
This month is a fantastic one during which to visit Aruba, because, like most of the Caribbean, the weather is unmatched. Despite it being rainy season, Aruba is always on the dry side, so sunny skies, relatively mild temperatures, and soft breezes characterize this time of the year.
Asia
22. Southern Islands, Thailand
Island-hopping in southern Thailand is a dream for many travelers, and there’s no wondering why. You can find a little bit of everything in this region: quiet beaches like Tonsai, can’t-miss touristy destinations like Railay Beach, hidden gems like Bottle Beach, and so much more.
December is prime time, because the temps are cooler and the days are sunnier — perfect beach weather. There are plenty of routes to take through southern Thailand, but booking an island-hopping tour is one of the better ways to see as much as you can.
23. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi not only makes for a great starting point for a backpacking trip through Vietnam or an essential stop on any Southeast Asia backpacking route but also a stellar December destination all on its own as well. It’s one of the most fascinating cities in Vietnam for its mix of traditional and colonial cultures. You can see French influences in everything from bahn mi sandwiches to the ornate architecture.
Visiting Hanoi in December is ideal if you want to get a taste of Vietnam without the stifling heat and humidity. This time of year yields mild temperatures — you might even see people wearing puffy coats and sweaters. Find out how best to pack for your trip with this Southeast Asia packing list.
24. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap, Cambodia, is the launching point for the must-see Angkor Wat archaeological and religious site. I visited in 2016, and it still remains one of the most surreal places I’ve ever traveled to. The ruins themselves are astounding: hundreds of temples, each with various carvings depicting the harrowing history of the site. Definitely don’t miss the chance to do a sunrise tour — I did one, and it was by far among my favorite experiences in Southeast Asia.
The town of Siem Reap itself is a backpacker hub, with plenty of restaurants and accommodations with very cheap prices, even in the high season.
Like so many other entries on this list, December is peak season. Don’t let that deter you from exploring this mystical destination, though. The cooler temperatures make seeing the ruins much more enjoyable, which might outweigh having to share the site with so many other visitors.
25. Ari Atoll, Maldives
Ari Atoll is by far one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. December is during the dry season, making it an incredible time for scuba diving and snorkeling, as there’s excellent visibility. It’s also whale shark season here; one of the best ways to see them is by diving with Liveaboard. You’ll also see colorful, healthy corals and abundant tropical fish.
Visiting Ari Atoll, like most places in the Maldives, can get pricey. This is especially true during the highly popular dry season. Check out this guide on how to go to the Maldives on a budget for some money-saving tips.
26. Takayama, Japan
There’s truly nowhere else on earth quite like Takayama, Japan. The city is known as the gateway to the Japanese Alps, buildings boast Edo-era architecture, and the food is out of this world (ingredients are organic and sourced locally). It’s a beautiful and historic place, and is also safe to explore solo.
Takayama is a magical destination for a weekend trip. Checkout this complete three-day winter itinerary, which includes things to do, places to stay, and how to get to and from the city.
The city gets quite chilly this time of year, with similar temperatures that you’d encounter in parts of the US and Europe. Dress for cold weather.
Africa
27. Tofo Beach, Mozambique
One of the most magical beaches I can think of is Tofo in Mozambique. To get there is an adventure in itself, and it’s perhaps the most off-the-beaten-path destination on this list. If you are up for the journey, though, Tofo’s pristine beaches, perfect surf, and jubilantly friendly locals make the trip worth it.
December is an awesome month to go to Tofo, because it’s peak season and the best time to celebrate the holidays with residents. It never really gets overcrowded, though, and most visitors are from other parts of the country, so it maintains its laid-back charm even during the high season.
Start planning your beach vacation to Tofo here.
28. Karoo National Park, South Africa
When it comes to national parks in South Africa, you may have only heard of Kruger. To be honest, that was the only one I knew about before I went to the country myself. Since December is such a busy time to visit Kruger, it gets overwhelmingly crowded there.
Check out Karoo National Park instead, where you’ll see a wider variety of landscapes and have a better chance of finding some peace and quiet. People often refer to Karoo as “the bush,” but it’s really more like a desert, so if you’re a fan of arid scenery with magnificent rock formations, this is the place for you.
December also marks the beginning of summer in South Africa, so expect warm, dry weather.
29. Chobe National Park, Botswana
If going on a safari has always been a dream of yours, this is your sign to check out Chobe National Park in Botswana for the adventure of a lifetime. Here you’ll encounter African elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and many other animals in the wild. In fact, it’s one of the best parks for wildlife viewing, due to the sheer concentration of animals.
December is a fantastic month to visit, because it’s green season and the entire park is lush with vegetation. It’s a popular time, though, so make sure to book far in advance.
Consider hitting up Chobe National Park along with other parks on this epic adventure camping tour.
30. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the Seven Wonders of Africa, earning its title because of its massive size and lush foliage. It’s the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera, and is home to around 25,000 animals, including many critically endangered species.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, Tanzania in December is ideal, because the region is beautifully lush this time of year due to short spurts of rain and ample sunshine in between.
Find everything you need to know about visiting the Ngorongoro Crater here.
31. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Many refer to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda as the birthplace of gorilla trekking. Since there are so few left in the wild, this activity can be quite expensive and requires booking about a year in advance. However, seeing these animals in the wild is a truly spectacular and unforgettable experience that is high on many travelers’ bucket lists.
Visiting Volcanoes National Park is just one element of the perfect Rwanda itinerary, and December is a great month for this adventure. Crowds here are relatively low this time of year. But you should prepare for rain, which can come at any momennt, as it’s the wet season.
Oceania
32. Tahiti, French Polynesia
While some travelers merely make a stop in Tahiti on their way to Bora Bora, French Polynesia, this island destination has much more to offer. There’s an abundance of gushing waterfalls, thick green jungles, and enough snorkeling and diving opportunities to make any ocean lover happy.
Although December is the rainy season in Tahiti, there are plenty of ways to enjoy. It’s a great place for a jungle hike, a visit to a black-sand beach, or chasing waterfalls. Find out what else there is to do in Tahiti here.
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I hope this list gives you plenty of inspiration for your December travels this year and for years to come.
Where will you be heading?
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