Best December Travel Destinations, tourists have the fantastic opportunity to stay in the snow or move to warmer beaches. There are special things to see in every part of the world this month in winter markets dazzling in the snow, or beaches basking in the winter sun.
Is it the building of a snowman or a sandcastle that you have always wanted to do on a holiday? this guide can help you find the best places to visit in the month of December and make your adventure.
This article divides destinations into three distinct categories Winter Wonderlands, Sunny Escapes and Festive Cities. You will get information about weather, major activities and professional advices to plan your trip.
Cozy Winter Wonderland Getaways
The month of December is the best time of the year to find snow, warm fires and traditional holiday spirit to most people. These are some of the most perfect Christmas travel destinations to magical winter.
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Austrian Alps for Skiing and Christmas Markets
Austria is a perfect choice of a traditional white December. One can spend the days skiing on the world-class slopes and evenings can be dedicated to charming and festive villages.
- Weather & Atmosphere: The weather will likely be cold and snowy with average temperatures of about 2 o C (35 o F). The air is entirely holiday magic.
- Top Activities:
- Skying or snowboarding in such resorts as St. Anton or Kitzbuehl.
- Going to the popular Christmas markets in such cities as Salzburg and Vienna. Salzburg, the home of the Silent Night carol is particularly pretty.
- The culture of apres-ski - the social fun in the end of a day on the slopes.
- Travel Hint: Think of taking a day trip out of the mountains to one of the old cities such as Salzburg or Innsbruck and go to their gorgeous Christmas markets.
Lapland, Finland for Arctic Magic
To end up a happy ending in a fairy-tale, go to Finnish Lapland in the north. It is referred to as the official home of the Santa Claus and provides a very exclusive Arctic adventure.
- Weather & Atmosphere: Get your coat! The temperatures range between -25 o C and 0 o C ( -13 o F and 32 o F). The weather is simply spectacular and days are very short and there is almost a possibility of a snow fall.
- Top Activities:
- Hunting the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) that are twirling in the dark winter sky.
- Riding by reindeer in the snow-white woods.
- Going to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi which is directly on the Arctic Circle.
- Travel Hint: This is an excellent and frequented trip. It is highly advisable to make reservations of tours and hotels way ahead of time.
Banff, Canada for Mountain Majesty
The Canadian Rockies offer a wonderful scenery of a December holiday. The Banff National park is transformed into a winter resort with snowed peaks and frozen lakes.
- Weather & Atmosphere: It is low and ranges between -12 o C to -1 o C (-10 o F to 30 o F), but the views of the mountain are a memory worth retaining.
- Top Activities:
- Riding an ice skate on the frozen lake Louise amongst mountains and a historic hotel.
- Taking a ride on the Banff Gondola to have spectacular views of snowy mountains.
- Going on a dog sledding tour, snowshoeing or sleigh riding as a winter adventure.
Travel Hack: It is convenient to be based in the town of Banff or at a classic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to be within reach to the most popular places.
Warm and Sunny December Escapes
Assuming you do not like cold weather, December is a good month to get some sunshine. These are the best warm weather destinations, and they provide a great escape out of winter.
The Caribbean Islands for Easy Beach Bliss
The Caribbean is a good idea when one wants sun and sand. Puerto Rico is particularly the most convenient to the U.S travelers because a passport is not needed.
- Weather / Atmosphere: It is the dry month of December. The weather is very warm and tropical, the temperatures are in the 80s of Fahrenheit (high 20s of Celsius) and there is plenty of sunshine.
- Top Activities:
- Resting at the gorgeous beaches of either Condado or Isle verde.
- Touring the colourful historic streets at Old San Juan.
- Kayaking through the well known bioluminescent bays where the water luminesces at night.
Travel Hint: Resorts, and flights are booked in advance and they are often booked fast. Early fall is the season when it is better to make an attempt to book your trip to get the best options.
Costa Rica for Nature and Adventure
Costa Rica is a great family vacation and an adventure plus beach holiday. December is in the dry season, so there is no shortage of sun to be explored.
- Weather, and Atmosphere: The terrain is wet and green due to the recent rainy season but days currently are sunny and dry.
- Top Activities:
- Ziplining through the cloud forests to have a view of the jungle in an aerial view.
- Seeing wild animals, such as sloths, monkeys and colorful birds within national parks.
- The beaches of the Pacific coast after your exploits.
Travel Hint: It is a very touristy season. Enlist the services of a travel specialist who can have rooms reserved in the best eco-lodges and assist in creating an itinerary.
Canary Islands, Spain for European Sun
The Canary Islands of Spain are off the coast of Africa and are mildly weathered all through the year. They are the best option among Europeans and those who travel to get winter sun and not a very long flight.
- Weather & Atmosphere Pleasant and spring-like, with an average temperature of the high 60s°F (approximately 20 o C). It is ideal in hiking and outdoor dining.
- Top Activities:
- Climbing the volcano mountains of Mount Teide on Tenerife.
- Sand boarding and watersports on Gran Canaria.
- Tasting seafood and local Spanish culture.
Travel Tip: The islands are different. Tenerife has many dramatic landscapes and resorts whereas Lanzarote is associated with isolated volcano vineyards and art.
Magical Festive City Celebrations
There are cities in the world that are renowned due to their December festivities. They become enchanted places with lights, music and holiday atmosphere.
New York City, USA for Iconic Sights
New York City is a family dream destination during the month of December. Their holiday decorations make the already well-known landmarks of the city even more special.
- Weather & Atmosphere: It is cold (30-45 c -1-7 c ) in temperature but the spirit of celebration is hot and thrilling.
- Top Activities:
- Visiting the great Rockefeller Christmas Tree and ice skating rink.
- Attending Radio City Christmas Spectacular with Rockettes.
- Going to the Christmas markets in Bryant Park or Union Square.
Travel Tip: Be ready to meet people, and particularly in weekends near Christmas. It is necessary to book Broadway shows and meals in famous restaurants long beforehand.
Strasbourg, France for Traditional Christmas Markets
Strasbourg in France is a so-called Capital of Christmas and one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The half-timbered houses in the city form a fairy-tale impression.
- Weather & Atmosphere: COLD (30-40 o C / -1-4 C), but the glowing markets and smell of mulled wine (vin chaud) provide the warm feeling.
- Top Activities:
- Strolling through the various stalls in the Christmas market in the cathedral.
- Eating some local Alsatian holiday cookies such as bredle cookies and tarte flambée (flammekueche).
- Touring the lovely canal side La petite France.
Travel Tip: The main market is often crowded but the smaller but themed markets are located all over the city and are a more local experience.
Prague, Czech Republic for a Fairytale Setting
Prague seems to have been in a winter fairy tale with its Gothic spires and its cobblestone streets. The Christmas markets it has are beautiful and relatively cheap.
- Weather & Atmosphere: Cold and usually snowy (25-38 o C / -4-3 o C), which contributes to the feeling of magic and the old world.
- Top Activities:
- Going to the major Christmas market in the Old Town Square, which has a huge tree and the sight of the Astronomical Clock.
- Taking the historic Charles Bridge to see unbelievable views of Prague Castle.
- Having a hot cider or Czech mulled wine when shopping in hand crafted ornaments.
Travel Tip: To have a unique experience, a little day out at the Christmas market at Prague Castle, which would provide breathtaking city views.
How to Pick Your Perfect December Trip?
The best December travel destination that one should opt to visit hinges on what you desire your vacation to be. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you want snow or sun? This is the biggest decision. Winter worlds are also fragrantly cozy and snow sports. Sunny escapes are also good sources of relaxation and beaches.
- Do you come with family? Find places to visit that include activities that are fun at any age, such as theme parks, easy downhill skiing, kid friendly tours, safe beaches, etc.
- Are you fond of traditions of holidays? In that case, you will fill your trip with Christmas cheer with cities known to have legendary Christmas markets, light displays and shows.
- How far do you want to travel? Short trip to the Caribbean or a trip to the U.S city may be quicker than a long trip to Europe or Asia when limited on vacation time.
Travel Planning Advice: Travel expert, Mina Agnos has observed that the trend is now towards families to blend their vacation - i.e. skiing a few days and then flying somewhere warmer to unwind. It is an excellent medium of enjoying the two worlds of December.
FAQs:- Best December Travel Destinations
Which are the hottest places to be during December?
To be sure of warm weather, go to the Caribbean (such as Puerto Rico or St. Barts), Central America (such as Belize or Costa Rica), or southeast Asia (such as Thailand or Cambodia). At these locations, it is the dry or cool season and the sunshine is abundant.
Where am I going to get a classic Christmas market in Europe?
Germany and Austria have the most renowned Christmas markets. Another excellent market is also located in Strasbourg (France), Prague (Czech Republic), Budapest (Hungary), and Brussels (Belgium). There are numerous markets that remain open till the Christmas Eve or even several days later.
Can one have a good safari in Africa in December?
Yes but it is specific to the region. In other nations such as Botswana and Zimbabwe, December is referred to as the green season. This implies that it rains now and then, yet there are also beautiful landscapes, fewer tourists and excellent wildlife observation, especially of predators. South Africa and Kenya are also good but very early booked.
So when is the best time to book a vacation in December?
The earlier, the better. On well-known vacation destinations such as ski resort, European Christmas markets, or beach resorts, strive to make 6-12 months bookings. This guarantees optimal choice of flights and hotel rooms that have special rates on early reservations.
What do I need to take on a vacation in December?
Your travel list will entirely depend on where you are going:
- In cold places: You will need: pack layers, a coat of warm color, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat.
- To warm weather destinations: Light clothes, and swimming suits, sunscreen, and hat.
- On city holidays: carry comfortable footwear, casual clothes with some nice things, and a jacket that keeps off cool nights.
Regardless of the best December travel destination you are planning to visit, planning will enable you to have a hassle free and memorable holiday retreat. There are so many fantastic locations to enjoy the season in the world that all one must do is to choose a favorite adventure.