December is a magical time to travel. Whether you love snowy mountains, festive Christmas markets, or tropical beaches to escape the cold, there’s a destination for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best places to travel in December, from winter wonderlands to warm retreats.
1. New York City, USA
Perfect for: Full festive holiday vibes, shopping, and iconic landmarks.
New York City in December feels like stepping into a holiday movie. With the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree glowing, ice skating at Central Park, and streets lined with twinkling lights, The city’s travel aesthetic is especially vibrant in winter, with iconic sights dressed up for the holidays NYC offers a festive charm unlike anywhere else. Don’t miss out on the famous Fifth Avenue window displays and holiday markets like the Union Square Holiday Market for unique gifts.
Top Attractions:
- Ice skating at Rockefeller Center
- Central Park in winter
- Times Square for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop
New York also has a cozy winter vibe, perfect for warming up with hot chocolate at a corner café after a day of sightseeing.
2. Lapland, Finland
Perfect for: Winter wonderland experience, Northern Lights, and family-friendly Santa adventures.
In Lapland, December is the month of magic and enchanting memories. Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in Finland, the native home of Santa Claus making this place a marvelous place for families and those who love December. You can even meet Santa at Rovaniemi, ride on reindeer sleighs and watch the stunning Northern Lights.
- Top Attractions:
- Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
- Husky and reindeer safaris
- Chasing the Northern Lights
If you yearn for the scenic snow covered landscape, you’ll love the winter activities like ice fishing, snowmobiling, and staying in an igloo hotel!
3. Vienna, Austria
Perfect for: Christmas markets, cultural experiences, and classical music.
Visiting Vienna in December feels like traveling back in time. The city’s appealing streets are filled with Christmas markets where you can sip hot mulled wine and browse hand-crafted goods. Furthermore, The Rathausplatz Christmas Market can be termed as one of the best in Europe and evenmore it is surrounded by historical buildings.
- Top Attractions:
- Vienna’s Christmas Markets
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral
- Schönbrunn Palace
It is also a favorable time to attend classical musical performances just like in movies, and Vienna’s historic coffee houses are perfect for warming up after a chilly day exploring.
4. Cancún, Mexico
Perfect for: Warm weather, beautiful beaches, and relaxation.
Christmas chilly weather in December turns many towards Cancún. People get to enjoy incredible beaches, clear waters, and lots of sun as they flee the cold weather. December is a dry month which means that Cancún weather is ideal for basking in the sun, swimming in the ocean, and visiting Tulum and chichen itza Mayan ruins.
- Top Attractions:
- Cancún’s beaches
- Snorkeling at Isla Mujeres
- Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza
Cancún also has a lively nightlife scene and is known for its luxury resorts, perfect for a relaxing winter getaway.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Perfect for: Adventure seekers, Northern Lights, and hot springs.
If you want to experience a fairytale land, Iceland in December should be at the top of your travel wishlist. The incredible natural beauty of the island can be explored from Reykjavik, the country’s capital. Not only that, but this period is the winter solstice and one of the best for viewing the Northern Lights, and the geothermal hot springs all over the country, among them the very popular Blue Lagoon, allow you to warm up.
- Top Attractions:
- Northern Lights tours
- The Blue Lagoon
- Golden Circle (Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall)
Even through the chilled weather, Iceland’s stunning landscapes and unique activities, such as glacier hiking and ice cave exploring, make it a fantastic destination for December travel.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Perfect for: Christmas markets, history, and fairy-tale scenery.
Prague looks like a scene out of a storybook in December. The city’s medieval architecture and cobblestone streets are beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and festive markets. The Old Town Square’s Christmas market is a must-see, offering traditional Czech foods, handmade ornaments, and live performances.
Top Attractions:
- Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market
- Prague Castle
- Charles Bridge
With its fairy-tale charm, Prague is perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for a romantic and historic winter escape.
7. Dubai, UAE
Perfect for: Modern luxury, warm weather, and shopping.
Dubai in December is a warm getaway merging luxury and modern attractions with cultural experiences. With daytime temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F), it can mean the beach on one day, a visit to the towering Burj Khalifa on another, and perhaps a desert safari on yet another. World-class shopping malls and the souks are what December offers an ideal moment for sightseeing.
- Top Attractions:
- Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
- Palm Jumeirah
- Desert safaris
Dubai is a hub for shopping especially around the winter festive season. Tourists from around the whole world prefer it along with availing good offers and deals in the festive season.
8. Tromsø, Norway
Perfect for: Arctic adventures and Northern Lights.
Tromsø, located in Norway’s Arctic Circle, is another great place to travel in December looking for winter adventures and a chance to see the Northern Lights. You can take part in thrilling activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and whale watching.
- Top Attractions:
- Northern Lights safaris
- Dog sledding
- Arctic fjords and wildlife
Despite the cold, Tromsø’s natural beauty and winter activities make it an exciting destination for adventure lovers.
9. Bali, Indonesia
Perfect for: Tropical paradise, yoga retreats, and relaxation.
If you want to swap snow for sand, Bali is a tropical escape with beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and warm December weather. It can be one the the underrated best places to travel in December. The island is also famous for its wellness retreats, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge before the new year.
- Top Attractions:
- Ubud’s rice terraces and temples
- Seminyak’s beaches
- Yoga retreats and wellness centers
December is the start of the rainy season in Bali, but it typically only rains for short periods, leaving you plenty of time to explore the island or relax on the beach.
10. Zurich, Switzerland
Perfect for: Snow sports, Christmas markets, and scenic beauty.
Zurich is an ultimate city for those who want to enjoy snowfall, snow-filled peaks, and vibrant winter festivals. In December, it shines with market and festive lights. Besides, it has very close proximity to the Swiss Alps which happen to be amongst the best in the world.
- Top Attractions:
- Zurich’s Christmas Markets
- Day trips to the Swiss Alps
- Lake Zurich
Zurich’s charming Old Town and nearby snowy landscapes make it a wonderful destination for a cozy winter vacation.
Taking Off:
Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy escape or a tropical paradise, December is a fantastic time to travel. From festive cities like New York and Vienna to sunny beaches in Cancún and Bali, the options are endless. Each destination offers unique experiences, so whether you want to sip hot cocoa in a winter wonderland or enjoy a cocktail by the beach, you’ll find the perfect spot to celebrate the season.
When planning your next adventure, these best places to travel in December offer a variety of exciting options for every type of traveler. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable December adventure!
