9 Best Places to Go in December for an Unforgettable Trip

December is the perfect time to trade winter days for tropical beaches or enjoy snowy landscapes, glowing Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures. The best places to go in December offer something for every traveler, from festive escapes and warm-weather retreats to memorable cultural experiences.

Quick Answer:

Choose Finland or Iceland for winter, Austria for markets, Thailand or Maldives for beaches, Egypt for history, Sri Lanka for nature, Australia for summer, and Mexico for culture.

9 Best Places to Go in December

1. Iceland

Long nights offer Northern Lights chances, while ice caves and hot springs add adventure. Winter weather can disrupt road trips, so stay flexible.

Best for: Winter scenery | Time: 4–6 days
Tip: Check road and weather alerts.

2. Austria

Vienna and Salzburg offer Christmas markets, historic streets, seasonal food, and concerts. Some markets close before Christmas, so check official dates.

Best for: Festive city breaks | Time: 4–6 days
Tip: Confirm market dates.

3. Finnish Lapland

Snowy forests, reindeer rides, husky safaris, and Santa Claus Village make Lapland memorable. December is cold and dark; auroras are possible but never guaranteed. Visit Finland.

Best for: Snowy family trips | Time: 4–6 days
Tip: Book activities early; pack thermal layers.

4. Thailand

Phuket and Krabi offer Andaman-coast beaches and boat trips; Bangkok adds temples and street food. The Gulf islands can be wetter, so choose your coast carefully.

Best for: Beaches and food | Time: 7–10 days
Tip: Check local forecasts.

5. The Maldives

December begins the generally drier season, popular for snorkeling and swimming. Showers remain possible, and transfers add to costs. Visit Maldives.

Best for: Beach relaxation | Time: 4–7 days
Tip: Compare resort and transfer costs.

6. Egypt

Mild winter days suit the Pyramids, Luxor’s temples, and Nile cruises; southern areas are warmer. Evenings can feel cool, so pack a jacket. Experience Egypt.

Best for: Ancient history | Time: 7–9 days
Tip: Check site opening times.

7. Sri Lanka

The south and west coasts often suit beach trips; tea-country hills are cooler, and wildlife outings add variety. The east and north can be wetter.

Best for: Beaches and nature | Time: 7–10 days
Tip: Book holiday stays early.

8. Australia

December is summer, ideal for Sydney, coastal drives, and outdoor dining. Heat and bushfires can affect plans, so focus on one region.

Best for: Summer coast | Time: 8–12 days
Tip: Check heat and fire alerts.

9. Mexico

Enjoy Caribbean beaches, historic cities, regional food, and traditions like the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe and Oaxaca’s Noche de Rábanos. Mexico’s December events.

Best for: Culture and beaches | Time: 5–8 days
Tip: Choose one region to limit transfers.

Plan Your December Trip

Pick your style: Japan has winter illuminations; Costa Rica offers wildlife; Patagonia, South Africa, and Uruguay bring summer. Canada, Alaska, Switzerland, and Norway offer winter scenery; Laos and Cambodia add culture.
Book early: Christmas and New Year cost more; early December may be quieter.
Prepare: Pack for local weather and check forecasts and travel advisories.

FAQs

Where is warm in December?

Thailand, the Maldives, Mexico’s Caribbean coast, and Sri Lanka are popular, but weather varies.

Where can I find a snowy Christmas?

Lapland, Iceland, and Austria offer winter scenery, but snow and auroras aren’t guaranteed.

Is December expensive?

Christmas and New Year cost more; flexible dates can help.

Conclusion

Choose your December trip, from snowy forests and festive markets to ancient landmarks or warm beaches. Check local weather, compare travel costs, and book stays and key activities early to make the most of your holiday.

Elaine Glusac

Mark Johanson is an experienced American travel journalist specializing in destinations, adventure, and travel. He has written for major publications and co-authored numerous Lonely Planet travel guides covering destinations worldwide.

Best Places to Go in December: 9 Trips for Every Travel Style