30+ Best Places to Travel in December
Planning a year-end, December trip? I find that it’s always easy to say “the world is so big, time to explore!” then the planning comes and my mind goes blank. Where should I go? Where is the most exciting? And it’s December. It’s cold in many places. What are the best places to travel to now?
This post was created to solve that problem.
Written by locals, this travel post covers a list of over 30+ of the best places to travel in December around the world. They are also written by fellow travel bloggers showcasing their favourite places to be in December!
This international contribution shows in this post, which covers every corner of the world. Everything from sunny Australia (a hot Christmas?!) to humid Malaysia or wintry France and Rome.
And of course, no list of places to travel would ever be complete if we didn’t also give you tips on how to travel, eat and sightsee like a local at each of these places.
No time to read through everything or want to save it for reference later? Pin this!
Table of Contents
Best Places to Travel in December
Algarve, Portugal
Contributed by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers
On the far south-west corner of Europe, you will find the rugged cliffs of the Algarve Coast stretching along the intriguing Portuguese coastline. The incredible landscape hides some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, famous caves, and secret water holes.
Cold in December, you say? With more than 300 days of sun a year, the Algarve Coast is popular among locals for water sports like surfing and bodyboarding. While most of Europe is covered in snow, the Algarve Coast is a place to escape and get some winter sun. Making it one of the best places to travel to in December.
The Algarve Coast is full of places to visit and things to do. If water sports are not your thing, or you think the water is a bit too cold in December, go for a hike along Seven Hanging Valleys Trail from Marinho Beach to Carvoeiro. This trail passes several beaches, rock arches, natural pools, and caves. This includes the famous Benagil Cave. You can go for a boat trip from Benagil Beach as the trail goes straight onto the beach. Believe me, you won’t regret it.
As of spectacular places to visit there are many. I would like to point out especially Ponta da Piedade, which is full of rock formations and you can walk along a new boardwalk that has been built on top of the cliffs to get the most out of the day. Further, you shouldn’t miss out on the cliffs of Sagres, which make out the western-most tip of the Algarve.
Some of the towns you should visit are, among others Lagos, Tavira, and Silves.
Bangkok, Thailand
Contributed by Sally Flint from www.sallyflint.com
December is a wonderful time of year to visit Thailand, especially Bangkok where the cooler climate. The temperature averages between 22 and 32 degrees, ensuring a refreshing non-tropical and, importantly, non-sweaty travelling experience.
Prior to heading to the city to explore the wonderful tourist attractions of temples, shopping and river dining, or to luxuriate in the excellence of the 5 star hotels in the Lower Sukhumvit area, why not opt to enjoy some time in the more leafy suburban part of Bangkok to be found in the Samut Prakhan region. I write about our experience of it here.
Only twenty minutes from the airport is the absolutely fabulous Thana City. The country club here is situated on a wonderful golf course which the diners and poolside recliners look out onto.
Equipped with an excellent gym, in which to work off the fabulous buffet breakfast, the hotel provides a wonderful bolt-hole in which to rest and recuperate from a tiring long-haul flight. From this suburban vantage point, it is possible to visit excellent local Thai restaurants, including the expansive and tummy expanding Koh Lanta Survanbhumi Airport restaurant.
It is great for plane spotters and it caters neither specifically to the tourist, nor the city slicker. Instead offers, along with live music and dance, delicious fare for the everyday dweller and thus provide a taste of non-contrived authentic culture that’s too good to miss.
Take a breath before entering the depths of South East Asia and enjoy visiting this chilled and friendly part of the city to see the lighter side of Bangkok.
Barcelona, Spain
Contributed by Sally Pederson from Loving Life In Spain
There is never a truly quiet time or low season in Barcelona. People from around the world want to visit this energetic city at all times of the year. The year-end, however, a slightly quieter time, making it one of the best places to visit in December in Europe.
The cobblestone streets of the city centre are a little more manageable without the crowds of people pulling suitcases or walking slower than turtles while in awe of the ancient architecture. The beaches are a lot quieter due to the colder weather. However, that doesn’t keep everyone away.
On sunny days you will still see people appreciating the weather sitting on blankets with jackets on and enjoying some snacks and drinks. Even though it may be considered cold to locals, the average winter temperature of 12°C is a lot warmer than most tourists’ home counties. There will almost always be one crazy person who thinks it is warm enough to go swimming.
If the weather isn’t that warm and you prefer to do something inside, Barcelona has several museums. With over 55 museums, you could spend your entire time there and not see them all. They include architecture, art, history, science, war, and more. The most popular museums include Museu FC Barcelona, El Born Centre Cultural, Museu Picasso, and the Museu d’Historia de Barcelona.
Another reason why you should visit Barcelona is for food. One of my favourite Spanish dishes is Paella. Originally from Valencia, and many say it is the best there, Paella is a delicious rice and seafood dish. It is available made a few different ways.
If you are wanting good Paella, do not eat it near any of the tourist attractions. All the restaurants near the attractions are overpriced, and the quality of the food is not very good. In addition to Paella, I like all the tapas restaurants that are scattered throughout the city.
If you don’t like tapas, five Michelin Star restaurants in the city are sure to please your palate.
Republic of Benin
Contributed by Trina Marie Phillips of Team Hazard Rides Again
To start, Benin doesn’t get cold and there’s very little rain. Not much will stop you from travelling around the country, soaking up history, nature and culture. Beninese people are also very open and welcoming. It is easily one of the safest and friendliest places we’ve ever visited.
Speaking of culture, we spent a very interesting Christmas in this West African country.
Benin has an interesting dichotomy when it comes to religious beliefs. It plays a central role in the Vodun (Voodoo) culture of West Africa. However, many of the people here who practice Vodun, are also Christian, Catholic or Muslim.
Some hide the fact that they practice their traditional African religion because the various churches are not tolerant of other belief systems. Then again, some walk out of the Catholic church in Ouidah (wee-dah) and go straight to the Python Temple across the street.
This makes for a very tolerant society. Regardless of the ‘rules’, the people have accepted the fact that many honour more than one religion. In general, they don’t judge people for their choice of deity.
On Christmas day in Benin, we were in our hotel room when we heard the rumble of drums. We went out to investigate. The kids across the street were drumming and dancing in full Vodun costume, soliciting donations from passers-by (as is the custom).
We got some cold drinks and sat on the hotel’s patio to watch. After we’d been there a while, they came over and danced for us. We gave them some CFA’s and took pictures. We actually watched long enough that they came around again. The second time we gave them cookies – which were equally appreciated.
The experience was totally unexpected and it was that sort of thing that happened repeatedly in Benin. Surprises are everywhere, especially in December.
British Columbia, Canada
Contributed by Rebecca Rice from KwaFare
British Columbia is one of my favourite winter destinations. I know you must be thinking- Canada? In December! But did you know that British Columbia, specifically lower British Columbia, has the most temperate climate in Canada? And did I mention they have rainforests!
So why is this wintry destination one of my favourites and in December especially?
First of all, the city of Vancouver is such a perfect place to stroll the streets in December, wrapped in your most fashionable scarf, sipping a pumpkin spice latte. There are so many hip and unique neighbourhoods to explore in Vancity, as the locals call it. Just bring your umbrella. Although there will probably be no snow, it is a rainy month.
A second destination I love in December is the city of Victoria. Again, the weather is similar to Vancouver so the cities pubs and tea rooms are that much cosier.
In addition, many BC parks can be beautiful in this first month of winter. Pacific Rim Park is still gorgeous in the cooler months, albeit a little more slippery. This is where you’ll find some of the fantastic rainforests that BC has to offer. And of course, Stanley Park in Vancouver is surprisingly still breathtakingly green and hauntingly beautiful in the winter fog.
Not to be forgotten, one of the best things to do in my humble opinion in December in British Columbia are the hot springs. Hot springs are just better in the cold and BC has a lot of them. Radium, Fairmont and Harrison are exquisite in winter.
Lastly, even if you don’t ski and just want to hang out in some of the most beautiful skiing villages, BC is where it’s at. Whistler and Panorama are two of my favourite spots for this.
So don’t write Canada off in December. You may be very pleasantly surprised.
Canberra, Australia
Contributed by Clara Todd of Petite Capsule
December is a fantastic time to travel to Canberra, Australia.
The warm weather makes it a perfect time to take walks with stunning views. The best walks are the bridge to bridge walk around Lake Burley Griffin, the Black Mountain Summit Walk, and the Mount Ainslie Summit Trail.
If you want a chance at spotting some Australian wildlife, head to the Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve. You may stumble upon an echidna, kangaroo, wallaby, possum or sugar glider.
December is an awesome time to go for a swim at Cotter Bend, Pine Island, or Casuarina Sands. You can cool off by eating frozen custard at Goodberry’s Creamery or mouth-watering ice cream from Frugii’s Dessert Laboratory.
Be sure to sample some local restaurants and cafes, including Morks, Eightysix, Dobinsons, and Brodburger. I would also suggest visiting The Forage – a street food, fashion and music festival. The Forage presents local cafes, food trucks, wineries, breweries, fashion brands, dancers, musicians, and models.
If you prefer to stay indoors with air conditioning, check out the Handmade Markets and the Old Bus Depot Markets. Both markets are ideal for finding Australian made goods.
Of course, don’t forget about the national attractions, like the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Museum of Australia. With so much to do, December is a terrific time to visit Canberra if you are looking to escape winter
Chicago, USA
Contributed by Patti Reddi from The Savvy Globetrotter
There are many attractions and things to do in Chicago year-round. Below are a few reasons why December is one of the best months to visit.
1) Chicago is one of the best places in the United States for Christmas and holiday festivities and events.
Chicago is beautiful in December as it is lit up with holiday lights and other holiday displays. There are many holiday attractions in Chicago that you can enjoy from the large Christmas tree in Millennium Park to Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier for indoor family-friendly fun.
2) Chicago is one of the best cities for Christmas and holiday shopping.
Chicago is a great place for holiday shopping.
In particular, Macy’s State Street department store is famous for its holiday window displays and the large Christmas tree in the middle of its Walnut Room restaurant.
Also, make sure to check out Christkindlmarket – a large outdoor traditional German-style Christmas market in downtown Chicago.
3) Chicago has many indoor attractions if it is too cold outside.
There are plenty of things to do indoors for those who do not enjoy the winter cold in Chicago.
Chicago has many excellent and renowned museums and cultural institutions including the Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Adler Planetarium and the Art Institute of Chicago. Other things to do in Chicago indoors include:
- watching a play or musical
- attending a comedy show
- listening to live music at a jazz or blues club
- enjoying panoramic views from two of the tallest skyscrapers in the world; and
- eating at one of Chicago’s many restaurants, which serves every type of cuisine you can imagine.
Doesn’t that make Chicago sound like one of the most magical places to travel to in December?
Copenhagen, Denmark
Contributed by Derek Hartman of Everything Copenhagen
If you want to visit a European capital with plenty of Christmas cheer and activities for the whole family, you should plan a trip to Copenhagen in December. Copenhagen is full of fantastic things to do all year long, but it’s amazing in December. Hands down one of the best places to visit for Christmas in Europe.
The first thing you’ll notice is the gorgeous decorations all over Copenhagen. The streets are crisscrossed with evergreen garlands and beautiful Christmas lights. Local shops, cafes and restaurants spare no effort in decorating their spaces as well. You can’t escape the feeling of Christmas in Copenhagen during December.
As you might already imagine, the city also hosts some incredible Christmas Markets. In every square, you’ll find a bustling market with rows of vendors selling hand-made Christmas ornaments and delicious foods.
The scene is like something from a Christmas card, with visitors smiling ear to ear. The Copenhagen Christmas Markets are something you can’t miss in December.
Aside from the decorations and Christmas Markets, you’ll love the chance to visit Copenhagen’s iconic Tivoli Gardens. Tivoli is a must-see destination all year long, but it’s magical in December.
The amusement park in central Copenhagen is decorated for the holidays and the rides are operational all through December. While you’re planning your trip, make sure to buy a ticket for Tivoli’s Crazy Christmas Cabaret. It’s a hilarious and festive annual production that you don’t want to miss.
Whatever you do in Copenhagen in December, you’re in for a treat.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contributed by Leona of Wandermust Family
One of my favourite places to travel in December is Dubai in the UAE.
The great thing about travelling to Dubai in December is that you are almost guaranteed perfect weather so it is a great escape for those wanting to find winter sun. The temperatures generally range from 15 degrees climbing to mid-twenties which is perfect for those looking to head to the beach.
On top of the beach, there are lots of other great things to do in Dubai such as great shopping, amazing water parks and theme parks but on top of that there are plenty of places to experience the local culture.
One of my favourite activities to do while in Dubai is to take a traditional boat down the Dubai Creek coupled with a visit to the Dubai Museum where you can get a feel for what traditional Emirati life was like!
For those concerned about getting in the Christmas Spirit in Dubai, don’t panic. There are plenty of Christmas events that go on across the city. From Christmas Markets, brunches and themed afternoon teas, there is plenty in the city everywhere, including those with children.
And of course, if you travel to Dubai at the end of December you will be in one of the best places in the world to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The Burj Khalifa and even the Atlantics on the Palm are home to some of the best New Years Eve Fireworks.
What better way to celebrate Christmas and welcome in the New Year?
Fishery Bay Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
Contributed by Steve and Natalie Klein of Curious Campers Australia
The Eyre Peninsula is in South Australia. It’s a region where the Australian outback meets rugged coastline and beautiful bays and beaches. The peninsula is dotted with towns, each with their own unique personalities and landscapes to explore.
You will need a few weeks and a vehicle to see the Eyre Peninsula and December is the perfect time to do it. Not only will you avoid the height of the Australian summer, you will also miss the peak season for local holidaymakers.
There is great scenery to explore. Relax on the white sand and turquoise blue beaches around Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay. Between Elliston and Venus Bay there are dramatic cliffs, caves and spectacular coastline. Ceduna, on the west side of the peninsula, is the gateway to one of Australia’s most iconic areas – the Nullarbor plain.
There is plenty on offer for wildlife lovers. Kangaroos and emus are commonplace. For the ultimate nature experience, swim with great white sharks near Port Lincoln. If sharks are a bit scary, you can swim with seals at Baird Bay. For an up-close dolphin experience, go to the Whyalla Marina where dolphins follow the fishing boats in.
The Eyre Peninsula’s pristine waters produce some of the worlds most sought after seafood such as abalone, scallops, oysters and tuna. Many towns offer the chance to eat delicious locally prepared seafood. We might be biased, but Eyre Peninsula oysters are the best in the world!
Finish your December and the year in Streaky Bay. The town puts on one of the biggest New Years Eve fireworks shows outside of the Australian capital cities. It’s the perfect ending to your Eyre Peninsula adventure.
Geelong Waterfront, Australia
Contributed by Audrey Chalmers of See Geelong
The Geelong Waterfront in Australia is the perfect place to visit in December. Starting life as a humble port, the foreshore has been transformed into a vibrant cosmopolitan area. It is full of restaurants, cafes, bars, and landscaped gardens that overlook the sparkling waters of Corio Bay.
There are heaps of things to do from Harley Davidson motorcycle rides to the trackless train, helicopter rides, and boat cruises. One thing you can be certain of: there will always be something to keep you busy.
December is summer in Australia and as the weather warms up, visitors can cool off in the art deco Eastern Beach swimming enclosure. So if you are looking for beach holidays in December, then you should come to the Geelong Waterfront in Australia.
Even without the traditional snow, the town is full of festive Christmas activities and events at this time of year. One of our favourite events is the Piccadilly Christmas Market. This fabulous artisan’s market is the perfect place to buy your Christmas gifts, with over 100 stalls selling unique pieces of jewellery, art and craft, homewares and gourmet food. The market also features a licensed café where you can relax and enjoy live music.
Geelong proudly boasts Australia’s tallest and only floating Christmas tree. Standing 25 metres high the stunning tree is made up of 11,000 reflective discs that shimmer in the breeze.
With 400 LED lights the tree is designed to reflect the beautiful bay during the day. At night it transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour with a lighting display that’s synchronised to music. The six-minute shows are staged every 15 minutes each night throughout December attracting thousands of visitors from near and far.
The floating Christmas tree alone is reason enough to visit Geelong in December.
Hampi, India
Contributed by Neethu Nair from Our Backpack Tales
Hampi, also known as the Hampi group of monuments, is a UNESCO world heritage site and was the centre of the Vijayanagara empire in the 14th century.
Hampi remains in ruins since 1556 after it was attacked by the Muslim Sultanates, but its historic richness is one that cannot be defeated. It is the perfect destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. From rustic roads to the green paddy fields, Hampi transported us back to the time of kings and palaces from the moment we step in!
It is best to visit Hampi during the winter to avoid the harsh weather. The temperature tends to go up to 37 degrees during the summer season whereas it stays around 15 to 33 degrees during the winter, making it a good choice for a winter break.
Some popular spots in Hampi are the Virupaksha Temple, the Hazara Rama Temple, the Vijay Vittala Temple, the Zenana Enclosure, the Step Tank, the Malyavantha Raghunatha Temple. The Hemakuta Hills for the perfect sunrise and sunset. The Hippie Island, known as the party hub of Hampi is also famous for among visitors due to the availability of non-vegetarian food and drinks.
Apart from that, you can:
- Visit the archaeological museum gallery, which exhibits many pictures of Hampi in the earlier years as compared to Hampi now. It’s quite an interesting spot to visit
- Experience the coracle ride on the beautiful Tungabhadra river which is one of the main activities in Hampi
- Try rock climbing
- Visit the small food stalls at the Hampi Bazaar. It offers the best breakfast while being pocket-friendly and delicious at the same time. Idli, vada and puri masala are some great choices to try
- Try the local vegetarian thali at the Pink Mango restaurant – an amazing lunch option
- Try Hampi’s coconuts – one of the best tender coconuts and perfect for staying hydrated!
In addition, the Hampi Utsav (Vijay Utsav) is the largest celebration in Hampi, helping at the first week of November every year. The festival includes music, dance, puppet shows and fireworks showcasing the rich and vibrant culture of the ancient Vijaynagara empire.
One thing is for sure – you won’t be bored when visiting Hampi, India!
Hawaii, USA
Contributed by Noel Morata
A fantastic and popular December destination in the USA is to visit Hawaii. With a chain of 8 main islands, you can’t go wrong with a tropical paradise, adventure, good food and wonderful warm weather.
All the islands are fun to explore and the main hub to most of the islands is Honolulu in Oahu. Honolulu is very urban with Waikiki beach being the main tourist destination and hotels with world-famous Waikiki beach, shopping and water fun all along the coast.
You don’t have to get too far from Honolulu to see stunning coastal areas and beaches. The beautiful North Shore area and East Hawaii and now the west side of the island is also becoming a new tourist destination with the new Disney hotel and other large brands creating a fun spot to vacation.
Hawaii is also an adventure lover’s dream destination with snorkeling, diving, sailing, hiking and so many different types of outdoor adventures waiting for those seeking some outdoor thrills in all the islands.
Check out this post on the North Shore of Oahu here for more inspiration of what to see and do in this region of the island and all the fun things you can do there.
Iceland
This is a personal recommendation from ME!
Having just been to Iceland, I have to admit that I’m being biased. But if you don’t already know – Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It is tiny – just an island – and its capital city, Reykjavik, is one of the smallest capital cities in the world.
BUT there is so much to see and do. Even if you have visited in the summer (which is what I did), the experience is totally different over the winter. For one, you can see the Northern Lights!! A prime spot to hunting Northern Lights is on Iceland’s unique black sand beaches (check this post to see the best 8 black sand beaches around Iceland).
You can explore Reykjavik, which has everything from its Laugavegur commercial street to famous landmarks like the Hallgrímskirkja Church. Or just eat all the best food in the best places in Reykjavik and around Iceland, which you can read about here.
Then there are the natural attractions found all along Golden Circle in the South of Iceland: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Skógafoss Waterfall, Gullfoss Waterfall & the Sólheimajökull Glacier.
Interested? Read this list of the top 120+ travel tips to visiting Iceland! Also, don’t forget to download these top FREE mobile applications to help you in your Icelandic journey.
Kerala, India
Contributed by Shalini at Eager2travel
Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in India and December is the best month to visit here. The major tourist places include Kovalam Beach, Fort Kochi, Thekkady, Alleppey, Munnar, Wayanad and Munroe Island. Kerala being the land of Ayurveda and yoga has a lot of unique experiences to offer. You can spend your vacation, healing in one of the yoga retreats of Kerala.
The must-do things include:
- watching the local Kathakali show at Kochi
- surfing in Kovalam
- cruising through the backwaters of Kerala
- living on a houseboat
- learning the tea manufacturing process in Munnar
- living on tea plantations or even better in a treehouse in the jungles of Wayand
- boating or jungle safari in Thekkady;
- Jungle trekking – another activity for the adventurous soul, but one must be aware of leeches;
- Catching the sunrise on munroe Island – it has one of the most beautiful sunsets you will ever see
- Trying the local dishes, which are made up of coconut oil; and
- Spend some time at Vini’s farm and having the whole island to yourself.
Even though people are warm and welcoming, Kerala is a conservative place so it’s better to dress modestly. To reach Kerala you can fly directly to Kochi airport and start your journey from there.
Krakow, Poland
Contributed by Diana from Travels in Poland
Krakow is a fantastic winter destination for first-time travellers, or for travellers who want to visit a beautiful city filled with lots of holiday spirit. Poland is one of the most religious countries in Europe and the holidays are filled with festivities, decorations and a festive atmosphere.
One of the best things to do in Krakow in December is to visit the Christmas market. The Krakow Christmas market is located at the Old Town’s main square and has numerous wooden stalls filled with treats, gifts, food and an array of gifts for every traveller.
A lot of very unique gifts can be purchased in Krakow right before the holidays. The decorations are spectacular with lots of festive lights, live performances and a huge Christmas tree in the centre.
Krakow also has a rich history and there are a lot of tours to choose from within the city. Schindler’s Factory tours, as well as tours to Auschwitz, are some of the most popular in December. It is a good idea to book tours for these places as far in advance as you can.
Wieliczka Salt Mine is another great tour to take. It is located just a few minutes outside of Krakow, but it closes early so only morning tours can be booked.
If you are around through the end of December, be sure to see all the preparations in time for the New Year, in which the Sylwester in Poland is quite spectacular.
Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Another recommendation by ME!
Kuching makes it to my list of the best places to travel in December because the weather is always great. As a tropical country, there is perpetual summer and that can be a problem because of the intense heat and humidity.
However, the monsoon season starts to roll in around the end of the year. And when December hits, that is when the weather turns so much gentler and more enjoyable. It also doesn’t rain all that much so there is plenty of time to explore the city while enjoying great weather.
One of the big things to do in Kuching is to explore its extensive collection of street art – you can read this post here for a complete itinerary. Next up, you should:
- Try all the East Malaysian food (which you can’t get anywhere outside the state of Sarawak, including Kuala Lumpur, Peninsular Malaysia): Sarawak laksa, kolo mee, kampua, terap etc.
- Visit Bako National Park – where you can see wild bearded boars, vipers, and proboscis monkeys!!
- Explore the historic Chinatown & Little India, which remain largely changed from a century ago. Don’t forget to visit the third-generation tin smithers & see the incredible street art on display!;
- Explore the waterfront, including getting on the traditional wooden Pak Tambang (a sun-powered boat that brings you from one side to the other side);
- Visit Semenggoh Wildlife National Park to meet the orang utans; and
- SO MUCH MORE.
This is my hometown, so hit me up here if you’d like more tips on what to see, where to go & what to eat!
Los Angeles, USA
Contributed by Wunmi & Sophia of Thrifty with a Compass
As much as we love a snowy Christmas, it’s nice to escape the cold every few winters. Los Angeles is a great place to visit in December for palm tree views and 70 degree weather.
For a city known for glitz and glamour, many people don’t know that there are tons to do in LA for either at a minimal cost or even for free. We often travel with a low budget so this is an important factor for us when we are determining a new destination.
One of our favourite activities to do in LA this time of year is to be an audience member in a holiday special TV show. Whether it be a talk show host like Jimmy Kimmel or a popular sitcom such as Mom, there are plenty of great TV shows to attend for free.
It is also not uncommon to visit the beach in December. Rent a tandem bicycle along Santa Monica pier or people watch your heart out in Venice Beach. Make sure you check out Manhattan Beach as well to watch the firework show put on every year in December.
The Hollywood Christmas Parade is another fun thing to do that is unique to this time of year. It takes place the week after Thanksgiving and is a long-lasting tradition for this city. You will also find plenty of Pop-Up Holiday shops that sell local hand crafted items for you to finish your holiday shopping.
Lastly, keep in mind that popular destinations such as Disneyland and Six Flags are very busy around the holiday season, but are decked out in holiday cheer!
London, United Kingdom
London is magical any time of the time, but this city really ups its game during the Christmas season.
There are so many reasons for visiting London in December, beginning with the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. This is a HUGE Christmas market, which has a theme park combined in Hyde Park. Entrance is free but because it is so popular, there is often a crowd outside as people go through the security checks to get in.
Once you’re in, exploring the rows of chalets selling everything from mulled wine and hot chocolate to dazzling metalwork, pretzels, sauerkraut and gingerbread. There are also plenty of amusement park games and rides (you can’t miss the roller-coaster) if you’re in for a bit of a thrill.
Outside of the Christmas Markets, there is shopping. Take note that everything (including the Tube!!) is shut down on 25 December. BUT on 26 December, Boxing Day happens. Everything is open and on massive discounts.
So if you know what you want to buy, make sure you visit all your targeted shops, identify the things you want, and waltz in on 26 December to snag the items that you want. Just be aware of all the elbowing and queues you will be spending most of your time in.
Apart from that, there are also plenty of Christmas festival celebrations to attend. Christmas carols can be heard from all corners of London, the street decorations (Oxford Street and Regent Street do a marvellous job) are incredible, and West End is in full swing. So why not grab a Christmas meal at Covent Garden, then walk over for a Christmas play before popping by an English bar to end the night?
You can’t go wrong by choosing London as the place to visit in December. Or any time of the year, for that matter!
New York City, USA
Contributed by James Ian of Travel Collecting
There are so many reasons to visit New York City in December.
I live in NYC and despite the cold, December is my favourite month of the year because this is when the city is its most magical. Almost every Christmas movie ever is set in New York – and for good reason.
Three things to do are:
1. See the holiday windows.
All of the major department stores in New York decorate their windows for the holidays. A walking tour to see them all is one of my favorite annual pilgrimages.
Start at Macy’s then walk via Bryant Park (where there is free ice skating, a large tree and a great holiday market) to the New York Public Library to see the lions decorated with wreaths.
Head up Fifth Avenue to the light show and windows at Saks Fifth Avenue and the enormous real tree and more skating at Rockefeller Center opposite. Continue along Fifth Avenue, stopping off for a free sample at the Lindt store, to the splendour of the windows at Bergdorf Goodman. They are never holiday-themed per se, but are always incredibly elaborate and detailed fantastical visions.
Turn right at the Plaza to Barneys and finish your tour at Bloomingdales. Wear comfortable shoes.
2. See a holiday show.
There are several iconic holiday shows in New York. The most famous is the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Featuring the precision dancing Rockettes, Santa Claus, a high-tech movie, a double-decker bus and a camel, this is classic fun for the whole family.
If you’ve never seen it before, you must go. If you like ballet, you should also not miss the Nutcracker at Lincoln Center.
3. Check out the crazy decorations in Dyker Heights.
Not everything worth seeing in NYC is in Manhattan. Hop on a D or M subway train to 18th Street in Brooklyn. Homes in a section of the Dyker Heights neighbourhood all try to outdo themselves with over-the-top holiday decorations. Think bright lights, oversized inflatables and a crazy kaleidoscope of colour. This is also not to be missed.
For more details about all of these, plus even more ideas about how to spend Christmas in New York, read here.
North Island, New Zealand
Contributed by Alex Diethelm of Discover Aotearoa – New Zealand from N to Z
December is the time in New Zealand when the country starts buzzing. The temperatures on the North Island climb up to a summery 25°C and the locals start to get ready to celebrate Christmas and Summer holidays. If you are looking for some winter sun in December, this is the place to travel to in December.
Everyone flocks to the local beaches to take in the Summer sun and go for a swim. You can usually distinguish the locals from the tourists by the massive amount of gear they bring with them. Camping chairs, tables, and enough food to potentially feed everyone on the beach. And all is neatly packed in chilly bins (outside of New Zealand, it is known as cooling boxes).
Another place where you find the Kiwis in December is in their bach. This is really just a holiday house, but more often than not, these houses have in the possession of the same family for decades and get passed onto the next generation.
As a visitor, you can be a part of this tradition by renting a bach for a few days (although in December, they’re often in use, so you’d have to be lucky to find an available bach).
Especially on the North Island, it’s easy to tell it’s December. The Pohutukawa Tree, a tree native to New Zealand, blooms during the Christmas season. It’s like an explosion of Red on the green trees. No wonder they’re nicknamed New Zealand Christmas Trees.
If you are visiting New Zealand’s North Island during December and are looking for an authentic Kiwi experience, make sure to join the locals on a beach day for a delicious barbeque and beer, all while sitting underneath a Pohutukawa Tree.
Paris, France
Contributed by Lena from Salut from Paris
Even though the European winter is not exactly famous for its mild temperatures, Paris is actually a great destination to visit during the cold season. December in Paris is magical!
The city is in full preparation of the holiday season. The streets are beautifully illuminated. There is Christmas decoration as far as the eye can see and the air is filled with this festive bustle that you only find around Christmas time.
Christmas markets are not typical for Paris, but since a few years, they are becoming more and more popular. The most well-known Christmas market is installed at La Défense. A commercial and business area in the west of Paris with restaurants, cinemas and the biggest shopping mall in France, le Quatre Temps.
It’s also well worth visiting the Champs Élysées. This famous street is one of the most festively illuminated places during Christmas time and also has a Christmas market. Perfect to warm yourself up with some hot wine. Or you can just walk a bit further down the Rue de Rivoli and visit the famous tea house, Angelina. It is just around the Louvre and has the best hot chocolate in town!
A classic activity during Christmas time in Paris is a visit to the big department stores. The Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are beautifully decorated and illuminated, but the real highlight is the themed Christmas window displays.
Even though December is the first winter months, it’s still relatively mild in Paris. It is rarely freezing but it might be quite rainy. Perfect to take advantage of the high density of museums in Paris!
The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are the classics, but what about the newly opened Musée de Libération? The museum about the French resistance opened only this year and is a great alternative to Paris’ high key exhibitions.
Definitely one of the best places to visit in December in Europe.
Penang, Malaysia
Contributed by Ming Lee of Flyerism
As a seasoned traveller who has stayed in Penang for nearly three years, it’s in my opinion that Penang is one of the best places you can go in December. Here’s why:
1. The wealth of street food.
Penang is often regarded as the mecca for foodie because of its massive selection of flavorful street food. The must-try street food are:
- Asam Laksa (spicy and sour noodles in fish soup)
- Char Koay Teow (fried noodles)
- Roti Canai (Indian puff bread)
- Nasi Kandar (Mixed rice sold by Indian Muslims)
- Cendol (shaved ice dessert with coconut milk as the base).
There are many places to start your gastronomy journey but I particularly recommend Genting Cafe at Jelutong and New Cathay Kopitiam at Pulau Tikus. These places are where the locals hang out for authentic food. Not to worry though, as you will find many people who speak at least basic English. They are friendly and would be happy to guide you if you ask!
2. Nice beaches.
There are a number of beautiful beaches in Penang for you to enjoy some fun in the sun, eg. Batu Feringgi, Tanjung Bungah, Gertak Sanggul and Monkey Beach. December is the best month to enjoy the beaches as it is the driest month in Penang.
Just a word of caution, do not feed the wild monkeys as they can get aggressive.
3. The historic sites.
Georgetown, the oldest portion of Penang city center was named as a Unesco Heritage site in 2007.
In this area, you will find many historical buildings consists of the Anglican church, Hindu temple, Chinese temples, Peranakan building, British colonial buildings and so on. If you are visiting in December, you should definitely check out St. George church in Lebuh Farquhar street as there will be activities to celebrate the onset of Christmas.
Looking for the winter sun? You can’t go wrong with visiting Penang in December.
Perth, Australia
Contributed by Keri Hedrick of Our Globetrotters
There are lots of great reasons to love Perth at any time of the year, but we particularly enjoy Perth in December. The most isolated capital in the world sitting on the western coast of Australia, Perth enjoys an incredibly mild climate with highs reaching a really pleasant 27 celsius.
January and February highs can be much hotter than this, which can be a little too sticky and unpleasant for some until the sea breeze off the Indian Ocean kicks in mid-afternoon. Rainfall in December is minimal and on average you can be almost guaranteed 12 hours a day of sunshine.
During December, like many countries, Christmas festivities can be found everywhere you look. Scarborough Markets run through most of December.
The City of Perth also runs many festive events including the Makers Market in Yagan Square. The city centre takes on a truly festive feel with a giant Christmas tree in Forrest Chase, even daily snow and Santa greetings in London Arcade.
There are also plentiful day trips you can make from Perth perfect for this time of year. This includes the Swan Valley for food and wine tours, or down south to Bunbury, Busselton and beyond to the southern forests.
One of our favourites close to Perth is the stunning Rottnest Island. The weather in December is still perfect for bike riding your way across this small island off the coast from Fremantle. And don’t forget to take a refreshing dip into the idyllic blue waters.
Growing up in Perth, I have beautiful memories of celebrating Christmas by the beach. But for visitors, it is best enjoyed just prior to the Aussie school kids breaking up for summer. This ensures minimal crowds and gorgeous, long sunny days outside!
Peru
Contributed by Steph Dyson from Worldly Adventurer
With the lofty Andean peaks providing a dramatic backbone to the country, Peru is an adventurer’s paradise.
Along this ridge of 6,000-meter-high mountains are trails that have existed for centuries, with none more famous than the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, the latter being the magnificent former citadel of the Inca. It’s a hiking experience that few visitors to the country can miss.
Other destinations, such as the lesser-known, clifftop of the fort of Kuélap and the enormous and barely-visited archaeological site of Choquequirao are also must-sees for those with a strong interest in the history of this fascinating nation.
Beyond this, however, December is an excellent time to visit the Peruvian coast. December is the start of the summer months and temperatures are pleasant and warm. Everything from surfing, sunbathing and kitesurfing is on the cards if you head north to Máncora and Lobitos.
Meanwhile, the capital Lima buzzes with activity, with locals making the most of hot, sultry evenings to dine alfresco in the city’s internationally-acclaimed restaurants. In the south, Arequipa is perhaps the country’s most beautiful city. Its baroque architecture was built using local white volcanic stone. Arequipa also has a wealth of beautiful neoclassical churches to explore and admire.
Most travellers to Peru normally arrive between the months of July and August. Although December is the beginning of the rainy season (which can mean cloudy skies in the Andes), it is the perfect time to escape the crowds. You can expect sites such as Machu Picchu to be quieter and retain more of their magic and mystique.
Why not opt for a less conventional place like Peru to visit in December?
Philadelphia, USA
Contributed by Derek Hartman of Robe Trotting
If you’re looking for a December getaway, Philadelphia is your perfect winter escape. Not only is there a festive Christmas atmosphere in the whole city, but the excitement of life in Philadelphia doesn’t go away when the weather gets a little colder. There are so many things to do in Philadelphia all year long, and winter is no exception.
Philadelphia is home to world-class museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It is a great place to escape the cold temperatures and experience culture in Philly. If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute and the Please Touch Museum.
If you don’t mind being outside in the cold, the Philadelphia Zoo is great to visit in December. The animals are less active, but entry fees are discounted by 33%.
You can also do outside activities like ice-skating at the rink at Dilworth Park, just below City Hall. There’s also a festive Christmas Market at this plaza and across the street at Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE Park.
Philadelphia is also a tremendous food city. You can enjoy local favourites like cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, but the restaurant scene is equally delicious.
Philadelphia is home to some of America’s best restaurants and it’s much easier to get a table in the wintertime. This is because crowds are highest in the summer months, but you can reap the benefits of visiting in the winter and snag a table at a top restaurant.
Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in Philadelphia this December.
Quebec City, Canada
Contributed by Sharon Mendelaoui of Daily Dream 360
It is a beautiful city to visit at any time of year, but there is something magical about the first snowfall in Quebec City, Canada. The capital of the province of Quebec feels like a European village, and there are plenty of attractions to explore during December.
Let’s start with the old city, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage site as it is the only fortified city north of Mexico. The most famous Quebec City neighbourhood is Petit-Champlain, where the old buildings house local shops, cafes and restaurants and are lit up with twinkle lights.
Don’t be surprised when you find yourself in front of an ice bar, tasting frozen maple syrup or drinking a shot of Caribou, a popular local drink.
Up above Petit Champlain, a funicular ride up the side of the fortified wall will land you in front of the historic Fairmont Chateau Frontenac. Ideally located in the heart of it all, the luxury hotel is not only a great place to stay but an attraction all in of itself.
Just steps from the hotel, make your way up the famous Toboggan run, where you’ll speed down the hill at speeds reaching 70 km/h. For more winter sports, head to Ville Valcartier – a snow park that is home to Quebec’s Ice Hotel. Take a tour, or if you’re brave enough to sleep on a bed made of ice, maybe you’ll spend the night?
I love Quebec City’s European charm, elegance, great food, and how the people embrace its cold winters with plenty of fun activities to get your heart pumping. Invest in a good winter coat and be sure to add this to your list of best places to visit in December.
Rome, Italy
Contributed by Marta Correale of Mama Loves Rome
Rome is a wonderful travel destination all year round but it becomes magical in December. At this time, the city’s main piazzas see the arrival of tall Christmas trees and nativity scenes, and Rome’s shops show off impressive window displays.
The weather in Rome in December is chilly, but it is usually not cold enough to be unpleasant or make sightseeing a problem. A good coat and scarf are often enough to keep you warm. You will often get exceptionally bright blue skies, which is typical of this season.
There are several things to do in Rome in December. If this is your first time in the city, sightseeing is a must. All of the main attractions in Rome are open in December and with the exception of the week between Christmas and New Year, and the crowds are exceptionally thin. This makes it a great time of the year to visit the Colosseum and the Vatican museums, which are otherwise almost always full.
If you love shopping, this is also one of the best times to go. Both high street and designer shops bring out the best stock for pre-Christmas shopping. You can find many peculiar and unusual gifts to bring back home. The best shopping streets in Rome are Via dei Condotti (designer), Via del Corso (high street) and the area of Monti (Vintage).
Last but not least, Rome at this time is wonderful for food lovers. Rome’s most traditional food is earthy and warming and there is no better time to sample it. For the best experience, join the locals in one of the city’s many enoteche (wine bars). The best foods to try are carbonara (pasta), Gricia (pasta), carciofi alla Giudia (fried artichokes) and, if you are an adventurous eater, try the trippa alla Romana (tripe)!
Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland
Contributed by Cath Jordan from Passports and Adventures
One of the best destinations to travel in December is Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. Located on the Arctic Circle line in Finland, this destination is very popular with tourists who flock to experience winter in Lapland, visit Santa Claus and take on the many winter sports and excursions on offer.
As the biggest city in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi has plenty to offer visitors. The biggest draw, particularly for families, is the chance to visit Santa. With Rovaniemi being the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, there are two places to meet the man in red: Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. But if you aren’t visiting with kids, or want to see him, there is a lot more to do to enjoy this area of Finland.
With winter comes the snow, so the whole region is transformed into a winter wonderland. And that gives visitors the chance to take part in winter activities such as snowmobiling, meeting Sami and their reindeer, and of course reindeer and husky safaris.
If you are interested in a safari, one of the biggest tips for visiting Lapland I have is to ensure you do your homework and research. Only choose companies who have good ethics when it comes to their animals. The local tourism boards for each town can help give you suggestions.
Visiting this part of Finland just inside the Arctic Circle also means you have the potential to see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. There are many tours available from Rovaniemi and the Northern Lights can also sometimes be viewed over the city, with the best place to try to see them being behind the Arktikum Museum.
No matter what your interests, Rovaniemi is a great and magical destination to visit in December.
Thailand
Contributed by Steffi from Beach Bum Adventure
December is one of the best months to enjoy Thailand. The weather is great, it’s not as hot as the rest of the year and it is mainly blue skies, particularly over the Andaman sea.
However, December is also peak season so islands fill up and beaches get busier. This is why I strongly recommend visiting Krabi and its surrounding areas. For instance, consider visiting Ao Nang, which is a small seaside town in Krabi. It has a range of hostels, hotels and larger resorts to choose from. It has some nightlife but is not a crazy party place. Ao Nang also boasts some beautiful sunsets along the large yellow sand beaches.
Krabi is a perfect base for island hopping to nearby islands, such as Railay – great for beaches, monkeys and rock climbing, or travelling to Koh Phi Phi for a party island. Krabi also is home to a stunning national park, which is ideal for hikes and views across the ocean. Scuba diving in Krabi is also enjoyable, with some fairly healthy coral and a lot of marine life.
The dive sites are also quieter than diving from nearby Koh Phi Phi so it doesn’t get crowded underwater. Getting to Krabi is easy as there are always cheap domestic flights from Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
For quieter, less crowded places in Thailand, check out my blog post.
Toronto, Canada
Contributed by Ioana Stoica from The World Is My Playground
As the biggest city in Canada, Toronto has a lot to offer. December is a perfect time to visit as the festive atmosphere in the city makes up for the cold weather. Bring extra layers, bundle up and get ready for the time of your life.
Start in the Financial District, in the heart of the city and wander through the skyscrapers towards Nathan Phillips Square. Located in front of the city’s parliament building, the square is home to the iconic and Instagrammable Toronto sign. The shallow pool in front of the parliament is frozen during the winter months and becomes one of the popular skating rinks in town. You can bring your skates or rent a pair from a hut nearby.
The square also becomes festive each year at the end of November when an 18-meter tall Christmas tree, one of the largest in the city, is installed and lit up. This area of the city is magical during the day but is even prettier at night when it becomes colourfully lit up.
Don’t miss the CN Tower, a landmark that has become synonymous with Toronto. You’ll be able to take the super-fast elevator to the top and admire 360-degree views over the city. If you can, go on a sunny day so you can get the best views.
After you make your way back down, head to the Ripley Aquarium of Canada. This is not your ordinary aquarium as it hosts 100+ interactive displays and 16,000+ marine animals from all over the world. The most impressive attraction is the moving platform that takes visitors under a large water tank which hosts 17 sharks of 3 species, stingrays and more.
If you have extra time, head to Yonge and Dundas Square, Toronto’s mini Times Square, and the Distillery District. The Distillery District hosts an annual Christmas market that’s phenomenal and free during weekdays (not to mention less busy).
Tsitsikamma National Park Garden Route, South Africa
Contributed by Chrysoula Manika of Travel Passionate
December makes for a wonderful time of year to travel on a fascinating journey along the Garden Route in South Africa. This is thanks to the great weather, decent prices and lush landscapes that you’ll encounter along the way.
As South Africa lies in the southern hemisphere, it enjoys warm summer days throughout the month of December. Temperatures are well into their 20s during the day and high teens at night. These temperatures make it pleasant for enjoying safaris, beach time, hiking and relaxing by the pool, which ticks all of the Garden Route boxes.
Most Garden Route journeys travel from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth (or vice versa), stopping off along the way to explore the likes of Hermanus, Oudtshoorn, Knysna and the Tsitsikamma National Park.
Activities en route include:
- shark cage diving (if you dare!);
- soaking up the scenery along the Swartberg Pass;
- spotting ostriches in Oudtshoorn;
- drinking and dining in Knysna; and
- hiking around the Robberg Nature Preserve and the Tsitsikama National Park.
As December is the beginning of the dry season in South Africa, most landscapes will still be lush after the rainy season. This makes wildlife sightings slightly more difficult, as the animals nestle into the thick vegetation. However, it does mean that you have beautiful verdant landscapes as the backdrop to your photographs!
December is also the beginning of the migratory bird season, so keep your eye out for colourful birds flitting overhead.
In short, December can be a pretty popular time to travel to South Africa. Make sure you book your trip and accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment!
Vientiane, Laos
Contributed by Marie Moncrieff from A Life Without Borders
With December being a popular time to take a relaxing holiday or escape from the winter chill, why not head to one of my favourite destinations, the laid-back capital of Vientiane, Laos.
Bordered by Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and China, Laos is under-visited during the month of December with most tourists making the mistake of visiting later in the year when the heat is unbearable.
While December is technically the cool season in Laos, day-time temperatures still reach around 27-30 degrees Celsius. This makes it the ideal time to explore this chilled-out city.
With such perfect temperatures, Vientiane in December is more pleasant than usual, boasting warm days and cool nights. With the monsoon over for the year, rain won’t be an issue, making river and road travel a breeze.
Explore Vientiane’s quiet and calm city centre, which feels more like a large village than the capital city that it is. Compact and easily navigable, there are plenty of things to do in Vientiane, which is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Climb the French-inspired Patuxai Victory Monument for 360-degree views over central Vientiane before marvelling at the golden Pha That Luang stupa, the nation’s most important cultural monument.
Check out one of Vientiane’s historic, gilded temples, including the stunning columned Wat Ho Phra Keo or Wat Sisaket lined with six thousand Buddha images. Take the time to visit the eye-opening COPE Visitor Centre or the MAG UXO Center to discover the devastating effects of the Secret War in Laos.
Round off your visit to Vientiane by heading to the riverside night market to sample some delicious traditional Lao food and snacks. Of course, no visit to Vientiane would be complete without sipping an icy-cold BeerLao whilst watching a blazing orange sunset over the Mekong River.
Conclusion
Don’t all these countries sound like amazing places to travel in December? Have you been to any one of them before or are now inspired to?
Let me know in the comments below! Or better yet, sign up to my mailing list HERE to be the first to receive all of my exclusive downloadable freebies AND never miss another travel guide!
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18 Comments
Anna
Very interesting list and indeed a lot of different places are on the plate. From these I’d choose Lapland (never been in Finland actually), because I’d like to experience a lot of snow and Finnish sauna (who knows, maybe I’d jump into the snow afterwards :D)
Iuliya
Ooh, Lapland is on my list too! Using this as a great personal guide for myself too 🙂
Darla
I was most surprised by British Columbia being on the list! I had no idea they have rainforests there either. Now it’s on my radar!
Iuliya
Amazing!! Hope you get to visit one day! 🙂
Michelle
I loved reading this post and seeing all of the amazing places you recommend. I would love to visit either Thailand or Egypt in December. I don’t have plans as of now, but maybe I should be making some 🙂
Iuliya
YES! Time to book those flight tickets before the prices get any higher!! 😉
Kavita 3
Great list of ideas for where to go in December. I started the mix of city break, nature and culture options. Bangkok is a great tip, we timed our visit in December / January to take advantage of cooler weather.
Iuliya
Glad you approve of the list! And Southeast Asia is soo much better to visit because of the monsoon. On one hand, there’s a lot of rain but on the other, it is so much cooler as you said. Pleasant weather makes all the difference when travelling!
Becki
I’m looking for somewhere to go in December, so this is perfectly timed. I know you’ve listed cold places in Europe and the States, but so many wamer climeates too. There are deff some in Asia that take my fancy. I’m going to take a look at flight prices now 🙂
Iuliya
GREAT! Feel free to send me a note if you have any questions! 😉
Sage Scott
I would definitely front-load my list with warm destinations. However, I’d probably make an exception for Iceland only because it’s been on my wish list for decades! 🙂
Iuliya
Iceland is definitely worth a trip, it’s so amazing and unlike any place that I’ve been to!
Nicole
This is such a great list! I have been to a few of these locations, the rest are on my bucket list.
Iuliya
That’s great to hear!
Beth
Out of this entire list, I’ve only really been to Chicago! I’ve got some major catching up to do!!
Iuliya
Woah, that you definitely do!! 😉
Alexandra Booze
With so many places to travel to over the holidays, this post definetly helps narrow it down! Thank you for the great recommendations!
Iuliya
You’re welcome!