Whether you’re in the mood for a winter wonderland or seeking sun-soaked shores, there’s a destination waiting to welcome you. From magical Christmas markets to off-season paradises, we’ve rounded up the best places to explore this December. Whether it’s for a quick weekend escape or a leisurely weekday trip, here’s where you’ll want to be.
With so many options, it’s all about finding the right place at the right time. Some destinations sparkle during the week when crowds are thinner, while others come alive with festive energy on weekends. No matter your travel style, these destinations offer something unforgettable, blending cultural experiences, natural beauty, and holiday spirit.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Best for: Northern Lights, hot springs, and snowy landscapes.
When to go: Weekdays for quieter spots at hot springs like the Blue Lagoon.
December in Reykjavik brings long nights lit by the aurora borealis. Visit the city’s Christmas markets and relax in geothermal pools surrounded by snow.
Kyoto, Japan
Best for: Temples, tea ceremonies, and tranquil gardens.
When to go: Weekdays are best to avoid crowds at temples like Fushimi Inari.
Kyoto is a peaceful escape in December, offering cultural experiences such as visiting Zen gardens and partaking in traditional tea ceremonies.
Vienna, Austria
Best for: Christmas markets, classical music, and elegant streets.
When to go: Weekends to enjoy the festive buzz of the markets.
Vienna comes alive in December with holiday markets, stunning architecture, and classical concerts at the Vienna State Opera.
Banff, Canada
Best for: Skiing, hot springs, and scenic mountain views.
When to go: Weekdays for smaller ski lift lines and a peaceful soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Banff is a winter paradise where you can ski in the Rockies, relax in hot springs, or enjoy a cozy evening by the fire.
Sydney, Australia
Best for: Beaches, outdoor festivals, and New Year’s Eve fireworks.
When to go: Weekdays for less crowded beaches like Bondi and Manly.
Sydney’s sunny December offers beach days and vibrant cultural events, culminating in the world-renowned New Year’s Eve celebration at Sydney Harbour.
Prague, Czech Republic
Best for: Snow-covered castles, Christmas markets, and historic squares.
When to go: Weekdays to explore Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge without heavy crowds.
Prague’s medieval charm is enhanced in December with snow, twinkling lights, and mulled wine from the Old Town Christmas Market.
Dubai, UAE
Best for: Luxury shopping, beach resorts, and warm weather.
When to go: Weekdays to avoid the weekend rush at tourist attractions like the Burj Khalifa.
December in Dubai is ideal for soaking up the sun, shopping in glamorous malls, and enjoying extravagant holiday decorations.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Best for: Skiing, après-ski, and stunning alpine scenery.
When to go: Weekdays for quieter slopes and an intimate après-ski experience.
Zermatt, at the foot of the Matterhorn, offers world-class skiing and cozy mountain lodges, perfect for a luxurious winter escape.
New York City, USA
Best for: Holiday lights, ice skating, and iconic holiday events.
When to go: Weekdays to catch Rockefeller Center and Central Park before weekend crowds.
New York City in December is pure holiday magic, from the Rockefeller tree lighting to ice skating under the stars in Central Park.
Lapland, Finland
Best for: Santa Claus village, reindeer rides, and the Northern Lights.
When to go: Weekends for family-friendly activities like visiting Santa’s village and snowmobile safaris.
Lapland offers a fairy-tale December experience with endless snow, cozy cabins, and the chance to meet Santa Claus himself.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Best for: Adventure sports, lakeside views, and warm summer weather.
When to go: Weekdays to have more space for activities like bungee jumping and skydiving.
In the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, Queenstown is perfect for adrenaline-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning lake and mountain views.
Munich, Germany
Best for: Bavarian Christmas markets, beer halls, and traditional holiday treats.
When to go: Weekends for a festive atmosphere at the Christkindlmarkt.
Munich is famous for its Christmas markets, offering mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted gifts set against a backdrop of stunning Bavarian architecture.
Maui, Hawaii, USA
Best for: Beaches, whale watching, and tropical getaways.
When to go: Weekdays for quieter beaches like Wailea or Kapalua.
Maui’s December is a beach lover’s paradise, with warm waters, excellent snorkeling, and a chance to see migrating humpback whales.
Salzburg, Austria
Best for: Baroque architecture, holiday markets, and classical concerts.
When to go: Weekends to enjoy the holiday markets and concerts.
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, offers a festive December with snow-dusted streets, twinkling lights, and the sound of classical music filling the air.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Best for: Christmas lights, cozy cafés, and historic amusement parks.
When to go: Weekdays for less crowded walks around Tivoli Gardens and the city’s canals.
Copenhagen embraces the concept of hygge in December with its Christmas markets, warm cafés, and charming city streets.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Best for: Santa Claus, igloo stays, and reindeer sleigh rides.
When to go: Weekends for family fun and holiday experiences in Santa Claus Village.
Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle offers a magical December, with visits to Santa, reindeer rides, and views of the Northern Lights.
Paris, France
Best for: Christmas lights, gourmet dining, and romantic getaways.
When to go: Weekdays to visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower without the weekend rush.
Paris is aglow with festive lights in December, making it the perfect month to explore the city’s romantic streets and enjoy its world-class cuisine.
Aspen, USA
Best for: Ski resorts, shopping, and cozy mountain retreats.
When to go: Weekdays for quieter slopes and a more relaxed shopping experience in town.
Aspen offers the perfect combination of luxury, adventure, and holiday spirit, with world-class skiing and charming mountain lodges.
Rome, Italy
Best for: Ancient ruins, Christmas lights, and Vatican visits.
When to go: Weekdays to explore the Vatican and Roman Forum without the crowds.
Rome in December is a quieter, more serene experience, perfect for those who want to explore the city’s historic sites and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
Costa Rica
Best for: Rainforests, volcanoes, and tropical beaches.
When to go: Weekdays for better access to popular spots like Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park.
December marks the start of the dry season in Costa Rica, offering perfect weather for beach relaxation and jungle exploration.
Whether you’re chasing snow or sunshine, these 20 destinations offer something special in December. Weekday visits often promise fewer crowds, while weekends bring an extra festive vibe. No matter when you go, these places guarantee unforgettable experiences, perfect for closing out the year on a high note.
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