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December is a month of contrasts. While the Northern Hemisphere wraps itself in frost and fairy lights, the tropics offer warm escapes. Whether you dream of skiing through Alpine powder, sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market, or lounging on a sun-drenched beach, the right destination can make your December unforgettable. Here are some of the best places to go in December, with practical tips to help you plan a trip that matches your travel style.
Embrace the Snow: Classic Winter Destinations
For many, December means snow, fireplaces, and holiday cheer. If you’re among them, these spots deliver.
Lapland, Finland
This is the epicenter of Christmas magic. The town of Rovaniemi, officially Santa’s hometown, offers reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and the chance to meet Saint Nick himself. Beyond the touristy village, you can chase the Northern Lights on a snowmobile tour or stay in a glass igloo under the stars. December brings polar nights, with only a few hours of twilight, but the snow-covered landscapes glow even in dim light. For a unique experience, book a night at the Arctic SnowHotel.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg’s Altstadt (Old Town) transforms into a living Christmas card. Its Christkindlmarkt, one of Europe’s oldest, dates back to the 15th century. Stroll through the market squares sipping Glühwein and tasting roasted chestnuts, while the scent of gingerbread fills the air. The city’s baroque architecture, framed by snow-dusted Alps, provides a stunning backdrop. Take a Sound of Music tour or visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views.
Escape the Cold: Tropical December Retreats
Not everyone wants a white Christmas. If your ideal December includes sunshine, these warm-weather havens are perfect.
Maldives
December is the start of the dry season in the Maldives, meaning crystal-clear skies and calm seas. It’s peak season, so book early, but the reward is sublime: overwater villas, world-class diving with manta rays and whale sharks, and sunsets that paint the Indian Ocean in shades of orange and pink. Many resorts offer special Christmas dinners on the beach, complete with local lobster and champagne.
Canary Islands, Spain
For a European winter sun fix, the Canaries are unbeatable. Tenerife and Gran Canaria boast average December highs of 22°C (72°F). You can hike the volcanic landscapes of Teide National Park, relax on black-sand beaches, or explore the lush laurel forests of La Gomera. Christmas festivities here blend Spanish tradition with unique customs, like the Cabalgata de Reyes (Three Kings’ Parade) in early January, but December still has markets and nativity scenes.
Festive City Breaks: Urban December Delights
Some cities come alive in December with markets, lights, and cultural events.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town Square hosts one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets. A giant tree decorated with thousands of lights stands beside the medieval astronomical clock. The air smells of trdelník (chimney cake) and hot wine. Wander across the Charles Bridge at dawn to avoid crowds, then explore the castle district. December’s cold adds a crisp beauty to the Gothic architecture, and the city’s pubs offer hearty Czech cuisine like svíčková (beef in cream sauce).
New York City, USA
The Big Apple goes all out. The Rockefeller Center tree, ice skating at Wollman Rink, and window displays on Fifth Avenue are iconic. But beyond the clichés, December in NYC means seeing the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, catching a Broadway show, and exploring the holiday markets in Bryant Park and Union Square. Central Park dusted with snow is a photographer’s dream. For a quieter moment, visit the Cloisters museum in Upper Manhattan.
Adventure and Wildlife: Unusual December Experiences
December is also a fantastic month for wildlife encounters and active trips.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
December marks the start of the warm, wet season, but that means calmer seas and lush highlands. It’s the perfect time to see green sea turtles nesting and baby marine iguanas hatching. Snorkeling with playful sea lions and penguins is a daily occurrence. For a deeper understanding, consider a guided cruise; you can read our Ultimate Guide to a Galapagos Cruise: What to Expect in 2026 for practical tips on itineraries and packing.
Antarctica
December is early summer in Antarctica, with 24-hour daylight and temperatures around freezing. It’s the prime season for cruises, as ice breaks up, allowing ships into the Weddell Sea. You’ll see massive penguin colonies (chicks start hatching), seals lounging on icebergs, and humpback whales feeding in nutrient-rich waters. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip that requires serious preparation, but the raw beauty is unmatched.
Cultural Celebrations: December Festivals Beyond Christmas
Not all December travel revolves around Christmas. Many destinations host unique celebrations.
Kwanzaa Celebrations in the USA
From December 26 to January 1, African American communities celebrate Kwanzaa with feasts, music, and candle-lighting ceremonies. While not a major tourist draw, cities like Washington D.C., Atlanta, and New Orleans have public events. It’s an opportunity to learn about African diaspora culture in an authentic setting.
Hogmanay in Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s New Year celebration is world-famous. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay spans three days (December 30–January 1) with a torchlight procession, street party, and fireworks over the castle. The city buzzes with ceilidh dancing, whisky tastings, and the unique tradition of “first-footing.” For a quieter alternative, join a local pub where everyone links arms for “Auld Lang Syne.”
Budget-Friendly December Gems
December can be pricey, but savvy travelers can find deals.
- Budapest, Hungary: Christmas markets here are less expensive than in Vienna, with handmade crafts and hearty goulash. Thermal baths (like Széchenyi) are magical in the cold.
- Morocco: Marrakech in December is mild (20°C/68°F) and less crowded. Explore souks, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara desert without peak-season prices.
- Mexico: December is a great time to visit colonial cities like San Miguel de Allende or Oaxaca, where posadas (traditional Christmas processions) fill the streets. If you’re considering broader travel, our guide to Best Countries to Visit: A Curated Guide for Every Kind of Traveler offers inspiration beyond December.
Planning Tips for December Travel
A few practical notes: book flights and accommodation early, especially for Christmas week. December 20–26 is the most expensive period; traveling before December 15 or after January 2 can save money. Pack layers regardless of destination — even tropical evenings can be cool. For winter destinations, thermal underwear and waterproof boots are essential.
If you’re still undecided, think about what you want from your trip: relaxation, adventure, culture, or family fun. For more ideas, check out our Ultimate Guide to the Best Vacation Destinations for Every Travel Style to match your personality with the perfect place. And if you’re dreaming of truly awe-inspiring scenery, don’t miss our collection of The World’s Most Beautiful Places That Will Leave You Speechless — many are at their best in December.
Wherever you go, December offers a chance to celebrate the end of the year in a way that feels meaningful. Whether that means snow angels or swimming with sea turtles, the best place is the one that calls to you.
