Have a look at our collection of best places to visit in December!
December is a wonderful time to travel, especially if you’re searching for Christmas markets or escaping the cold for a beach holiday. As the year comes to an end, it’s the perfect opportunity to change the scenery. From festive cities wrapped in lights to sunny islands offering warm weather and relaxation, there are countless great places to visit in December.
Planning a family holiday or a romantic escape? Or maybe a solo adventure? This guide covers the best places to go in December for every type of traveler. If you’re looking for the coolest places to visit in December , full of charm, or looking for warm countries in December where you can enjoy sunshine and swim in the sea, you’ll find something for yourself here.
Best Places to Visit in December
1. New York City, USA
New York in December is nothing short of iconic. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to holiday window displays and ice skating in Central Park, it’s one of the coolest places to visit in December if you love that classic festive feel. Temperatures can be brisk, but the energy and holiday spirit warm you right up.
2. Vienna, Austria
If you’re after European winter charm, Vienna is one of the best destinations to visit in December. Its historic squares transform into Christmas markets filled with mulled wine, handcrafted ornaments, and baked goods. Snow-dusted streets, cozy cafés, and live classical music concerts make this a truly atmospheric city to explore.
3. Dubai, UAE
If you’re tired of the cold and seeking some sun, Dubai is one of the warm countries in December that delivers luxury, warmth, and entertainment. With daytime temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s°F (25–28°C), it’s ideal for beach days, desert safaris, and shopping festivals. It’s also arguably the hottest place in December that remains travel-friendly and family-safe.
4. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo may not be the first place that comes to mind for December travel, but it’s absolutely one of the good places to visit in December. The city is aglow with winter illuminations, and cultural traditions like hot springs, temple visits, and seasonal food create a unique winter experience. Plus, the weather is crisp but dry—perfect for sightseeing.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
December marks the start of summer in South Africa, making Cape Town one of the best places to go in December for warm weather adventures. Think wine tastings in Stellenbosch, hikes up Table Mountain, and sunny beach days. With temperatures in the mid-80s°F (29°C), it’s one of the most pleasant and nice places to visit in December for outdoor lovers.
6. Lapland, Finland
Want to visit Santa Claus himself? Head to Lapland, Finland—one of the coolest places to visit in December (literally and figuratively). With snowy forests, reindeer rides, and the Northern Lights dancing above, it feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. It’s a magical experience, especially for families with young children.
7. Tulum, Mexico
Looking for a budget-friendly escape to sun and sand? Tulum is one of the warm countries in December that’s both relaxing and Instagram-worthy. With highs around 82°F (28°C), cenotes to swim in, and ancient ruins to explore, it’s one of the great places to visit in December for a casual yet rejuvenating vacation.
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown offers a unique twist: it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, making it one of the best destinations to visit in December if you want warmth, green mountains, and adrenaline-pumping activities. From bungee jumping and hiking to wine tours, it’s ideal for adventurous travelers looking for something different.
Summary
December doesn’t have to be about staying indoors or dealing with cold weather. It’s one of the most exciting months to travel, with options for both snow lovers and sun seekers. Whether you’re dreaming of snow-covered towns, twinkling lights, and cozy Christmas markets, or sunny shores and palm trees, you’ll find your ideal getaway among these best places to visit in December.
For charm and fun, destinations like New York, Vienna, and Lapland shine brightly. If you’re craving some heat and beach time, Dubai, Tulum, and Cape Town stand out as hot destinations in December. Finally, for a mix of culture, nature, and warm weather, Tokyo and Queenstown offer unforgettable experiences.
No matter how you like to travel or what your budget is (check our article on Best Cheap Travel Destinations!), there are countless nice places to visit in December, each offering their own unique way to wrap up the year on a high note (like Aurora Borealis seeing!).
Have a wonderful wintertime!