Top 7 Best Travel Destinations for December

December brings festive cheer and a touch of winter magic, making it one of the most appealing times to travel. Whether you’re seeking winter wonderlands, tropical retreats, or cultural marvels, the right destination can make for an unforgettable holiday. Here are some of the best travel destinations to consider in December, each offering a unique blend of weather, events, and charm.

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is an enchanting winter wonderland in December. The Austrian capital is known for its Christmas markets, which transform the city into a festive paradise. Rathausplatz Christmas Market is one of the most famous, with charming wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and traditional treats like gingerbread and roasted chestnuts. Additionally, Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace offer smaller, more intimate markets with a regal backdrop. Visitors can enjoy classical music performances, particularly at the Vienna State Opera and the Musikverein, where the famous New Year’s Concert is held.

Vienna’s architecture is breathtaking year-round, but the winter season adds an extra layer of charm. St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum are ideal spots to explore in the colder weather, with their heated interiors and magnificent collections. Add some cozy cafés for a Viennese coffee and a slice of Sachertorte, and you’ll find Vienna is a truly magical December escape.

2. Tromsø, Norway

For those chasing the Northern Lights, Tromsø in Norway is the perfect destination. Located above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø offers some of the best conditions to witness this natural phenomenon, which is typically visible from September through March. In December, the Polar Night — a period when the sun doesn’t rise — begins, creating dark skies ideal for the lights to dance across.

Beyond the Northern Lights, Tromsø offers a range of thrilling winter activities, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. You can also learn about the indigenous Sami culture and their traditional way of life. Despite its northern location, Tromsø’s coastal climate is surprisingly mild in winter, making it accessible for visitors who might otherwise shy away from extreme cold. With cozy accommodations and numerous opportunities to enjoy nature, Tromsø is a true December delight for adventurers.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Japan is a beautiful winter destination, with Kyoto offering an especially serene experience in December. While many tourists flock to Tokyo or Osaka, Kyoto presents a quieter, more traditional side of Japan. The early part of December features mild weather, perfect for exploring temples and shrines without heavy crowds. The iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly stunning with light snowfall.

One of the highlights of December in Kyoto is the annual Arashiyama Hanatouro, a winter illumination festival. The famous Bamboo Forest and Arashiyama district are beautifully lit, creating a tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere. Japanese cuisine also takes a seasonal turn in winter, with hearty dishes like sukiyaki, oden, and hot pot (nabe) being popular in Kyoto’s traditional izakayas (pubs). The city’s numerous onsens (hot springs) offer a relaxing experience after a day of exploration.

4. Cape Town, South Africa

For travelers seeking warmth in December, Cape Town in South Africa is an ideal choice. December marks the start of Cape Town’s summer season, characterized by sunny weather, lively festivals, and stunning natural landscapes. The beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay are popular with both locals and tourists, offering pristine sand and turquoise waters. December is also the perfect time to explore Table Mountain, either by hiking up or taking the cable car, to enjoy panoramic views of the city and coast.

Cape Town’s cultural scene comes alive in December, with events like the Cape Town Festival of Beer and the Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts. The nearby Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, offer world-class wines and picturesque vineyard views. A visit to Cape Point or the penguin colony at Boulders Beach adds a touch of wildlife adventure, making Cape Town a well-rounded and warm destination for December.

5. New York City, USA

New York City is one of the world’s most iconic holiday destinations, with an atmosphere that’s truly electric in December. From the Rockefeller Center’s towering Christmas tree to the elaborate holiday windows along Fifth Avenue, the city is adorned with festive decorations that attract visitors from all over the world. Ice-skating at the Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park adds to the holiday experience, as does a visit to Radio City Music Hall for the annual Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes.

New York’s holiday markets, like the Winter Village at Bryant Park, Union Square Holiday Market, and Columbus Circle Holiday Market, are ideal for picking up unique gifts and sampling seasonal treats like hot cider and doughnuts. The city’s theaters also put on special performances, with « The Nutcracker » ballet and holiday-themed Broadway shows providing plenty of entertainment options. Even if you’ve been to New York before, visiting in December provides a fresh, festive perspective on the city.

6. Maldives

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape, the Maldives is one of the best options in December. Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has warm, sunny weather in December, making it ideal for those wanting to escape winter chills. With its pristine white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and luxury resorts, it’s a paradise for relaxation and water sports.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities here, as the coral reefs are home to vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays, and whale sharks. Many resorts offer overwater bungalows that provide direct access to the ocean, adding to the sense of seclusion and luxury. The Maldives also boasts some of the world’s best spas, offering treatments that incorporate local traditions and ingredients. If relaxation and beauty are what you seek in December, the Maldives is hard to beat.

7. Lapland, Finland

For a truly magical Christmas experience, Lapland in Finland is unbeatable. Known as the « official » home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is a dream come true for families and holiday enthusiasts. Santa Claus Village offers a chance to meet Santa himself, while the village and surrounding wilderness create an enchanting backdrop of snow-covered trees and frozen lakes.

Beyond Santa Claus, Lapland offers winter activities like snowshoeing, reindeer sleigh rides, and skiing. The region also boasts some of the best chances to see the Northern Lights, making it a great alternative to Tromsø for those who want both a Christmas atmosphere and natural wonders. For a unique accommodation experience, visitors can stay in glass igloos, which provide a comfortable way to watch the sky for aurora sightings without braving the cold.

Final Thoughts

Whether you crave a snowy escape, a festive city atmosphere, or a warm beach holiday, December offers plenty of remarkable destinations around the world. Each location on this list has something unique to offer, from cultural festivities to natural beauty. Choosing the best destination ultimately depends on your personal preferences, but with a little planning, December travel can lead to memories that last a lifetime.