10 Best Countries to Visit in December 2025

When December rolls around, do you feel that pull to do something different? It’s easy to get stuck in the same old holiday routine. But what if you could trade that for something totally new?

Imagine swapping your winter coat for a swimsuit to dive into crystal-clear water, or wandering through magical, snow-covered towns that look like they’re straight out of a movie. December is a month full of possibilities, offering a chance to make memories you’ll be talking about for years.

This list has you covered with the top 10 countries to check out in December 2025. Whether you’re all about that classic winter wonderland vibe with cozy fires and festive markets, or you’d rather be soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, there’s a perfect trip waiting for you.

Get ready to discover amazing places that will make this December your most exciting one yet.

Medellin, Colombia

Medellín, Colombia offers a unique December getaway with its year-round spring-like climate. While others are bundling up, you can enjoy sunny days and lively energy. The city truly comes alive for its Christmas celebration, El Alumbrado Navideño.

This huge festival of lights illuminates the Medellín River and parks with brilliant displays, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The entire month feels like a city-wide party with salsa music and nightly fireworks.

Beyond the holiday festivities, there is so much to explore. You can find good deals on places to stay, making it an affordable trip. Ride the famous cable car up to Comuna 13 to see its colorful street art and learn about its inspiring story.

For a break from the city, hike the trails in Parque Arví. Medellín gives you a perfect mix of culture, nature, and festive fun without the freezing temperatures.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria in December is like walking into a real-life holiday movie. The city is full of old-world charm, with beautiful buildings lightly covered in snow and the sound of horse-drawn carriages on stone streets. The main attraction is the Christmas markets, which pop up all over the city.

They smell like roasted nuts and sweet treats, and you can find unique handmade gifts while surrounded by twinkling lights. It’s a truly magical setting for a winter trip.

Some of the most amazing markets are at Schönbrunn Palace and Rathausplatz, where everything feels grand and festive. When you need a break from the cold, you can pop into a classic Viennese café.

It’s the perfect place to warm up with a rich hot chocolate and a slice of the famous chocolate cake, sachertorte. Vienna in December offers a classic European winter experience, full of cozy moments and beautiful sights.

Antigua & Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Guatemala offers a December experience full of culture and amazing views, especially in Antigua and around Lake Atitlán. The month starts with an incredible tradition called La Quema del Diablo, where people burn figures of the devil to get rid of bad vibes for the new year.

In Antigua, you can walk on old stone streets surrounded by volcanoes, see historic churches decorated with lights, and enjoy parades that fill the town with energy.

For a change of pace, head to Lake Atitlán, a huge lake surrounded by towering volcanoes. The weather is perfect for outdoor fun, so you can spend your days kayaking on the clear water or hiking between the small villages that dot the shoreline.

It’s a place to connect with nature and enjoy a more laid-back vibe, all while experiencing Guatemala’s rich traditions during the dry season.

Lapland, Finland

For a true winter wonderland, nothing beats Lapland, Finland in December. This is the official home of Santa Claus, and the whole region feels like a Christmas fairytale. You can go on a sleigh ride pulled by actual reindeer through snowy forests or speed across frozen lakes on a snowmobile.

The air is crisp, the snow is deep, and the holiday spirit is everywhere, making it an unforgettable cold-weather adventure.

Of course, a trip here means you have to visit Santa Claus Village. You can meet Santa himself and even cross the Arctic Circle. At night, if you’re lucky, you can look up to see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky in amazing colors.

After a day out in the cold, warming up in a traditional Finnish sauna is the perfect way to end your day.