Looking for the best countries to visit in December? Tired of frigid temperatures and dreary weather? Start your holiday season with an unforgettable trip!
Whether you're dreaming of a tropical paradise, a snowy winter wonderland, or a vibrant cultural festival, December offers a world of travel opportunities.
In this guide, we uncover top destinations that promise unique experiences and lasting memories. Find out where to go for sunny beaches, festive markets, and exotic adventures this December.
Warm Winter Getaways
For sunshine seekers hoping to thaw out after months of dreary weather, nothing beats a warm winter getaway. Popular beach destinations across the Southern Hemisphere offer balmy temperatures and sunny blue skies perfect for relaxing or exploring the outdoors.
Mexico
Fiesta away winter in Mexico, where Pacific and Caribbean coastlines lure beach lovers while colorful colonial cities and ancient ruins reward sightseers. December daytime highs average in the 80s, cooling off after dark for comfortable sleep.
You'll find joyful posadas, elaborate nativity scenes, fireworks, and feasts infusing Mexican holiday traditions into the warm winter atmosphere.
Top Destinations
| Place | Average High | Key Attractions |
| Cancun | Approximately 27.2°C | Beaches, nightlife |
| Puerto Vallarta | Approximately 28.3°C | Beaches, culture |
| Mexico City | Approximately 22.8°C | History, museums |
South Africa
With summer heat descending across South Africa in December, wildlife watching transitions from chilly dawn expeditions to leisurely sundowners on open safari vehicles.
The lush Garden Route welcomes beachgoers while Cape Town’s festive energy promises concerts under the stars, craft markets, and a dazzling New Year’s Eve displaying over the harbor.
Top Parks and Reserves
- Kruger National Park
- Sabi Sand Game Reserve
- Addo Elephant National Park
Thailand
With average December highs around 30°C on Thailand's Andaman sea, you can lounge on talcum powder sands edged by emerald waters for the price of a winter jacket back home.
Christmas and New Year's holidays inspire festive decorations and entertainment, while tranquil island beaches, verdant jungles, and ornate temples beckon cultural immersion beyond mega resorts.
Top Activities
- Island hopping
- Jungle treks and river cruises
- Cooking classes
- Night markets
Festive Wonderland Adventures
December transforms many destinations across the Northern Hemisphere into winter wonderlands perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. From bustling Christmas markets to snow-covered forests, enjoy favorite seasonal traditions against an iconic winter backdrop.
Germany
Germany hosts some of Europe's most spectacular Christmas markets, where you can nibble gingerbread cookies, sip mulled wine, and shop for handmade crafts.
Against a backdrop of historic buildings frosted with snow and twinkling lights, these markets capture the magic of German holiday traditions.
Top Christmas Markets
| City | Key Experiences |
| Nuremberg | Traditional crafts, sweets, and glühwein |
| Cologne | Sculptures, rides, performances |
| Dresden | Local artisans, medieval setting |
Czech Republic
Prague decks its Gothic squares and narrow cobblestone lanes with lights and seasonal greenery, creating a fairytale atmosphere perfect for sipping hot wine while watching street performers.
Time travel back to holidays past by candlelight during traditional Czech Christmas dinners in medieval taverns.
Iceland
Experience holidays at the edge of the Arctic Circle hunting for the elusive northern lights while cruising glacial lagoons or soaking in thermal hot springs. December daylight is limited but festive light displays in Reykjavik offset the long nights while opportunities to glimpse the Aurora Borealis inspire nightly adventures.
Switzerland
Snow-covered chalets perched on mountainsides evoke quintessential alpine holidays complete with reindeer, sledding, and skiing on pristine winter slopes.
Take a break from outdoor adventures to warm up by the fire in cozy mountain lodges while enjoying Swiss delicacies and hot cocoa.
Exotic Escapes
Trade icy sidewalks for warm tropical sands or luxury urban vacations with exotic getaways beyond typical holiday destinations. December brings ideal weather and travel incentives across beloved destinations in Asia and the Middle East.
Dubai
December visitors enjoy daytime highs around 24°C for chasing winter sun on Dubai’s beaches or desert dunes between checking out extravagant new resorts and attractions. The month brings festivals, camel races, perfect weather for sunbathing or hitting world-class shopping malls without extreme heat.
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Sri Lanka
Pleasantly warm and dry December weather across Sri Lanka permits fuller enjoyment of the country’s beaches, ancient ruins, and tea plantations. Festive lights accent architectural gems in Colombo while holiday crowds flock to resort areas. Expect queue lines at top destinations balanced with holiday discounts and incentives.
Maldives
December falls within the Maldives’s peak tourism season, when tranquil turquoise lagoons welcome diving, snorkeling, and world-class water sports. While this Indian Ocean paradise hosts overwater bungalows year-round, resorts entice December visitors with holiday dining specials, tree lightings, and New Year’s celebrations.
FAQs: Best Countries To Visit In December
Best Countries To Visit In December Conclusion
This December, give the gift of travel to yourself with a getaway tailored to your perfect holiday vision, whether that means festive winter markets or poolside tropical cocktails. Chase summer sun, snowy slopes, or exotic sights only visible during this most wonderful time of year for globetrotters.
Escape the stressful holiday rush or cold winter doldrums by booking flights now to amazing destinations ready to wow you with December cheer. Be sure to pack the adventurous holiday spirit sure to ignite lifelong magical memories.