These 12 Places To Travel in December Are Perfect for a Winter Escape
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Whether you’re after somewhere sunny to escape the freezing winter temperatures, winter activities like skiing and snowboarding, or a city break that offers plenty of festive cheer, these places to travel in December have what you’re looking for and more. However, with many fantastic places to choose, deciding where to go is challenging.
Luckily, we’re here to help. From the bright lights of New York and Christmas cheer in London to white sand beaches in the Maldives and the fast-paced ski slopes in Verbier, we’ll show you everything December’s best travel destinations offer. You can expect fun, adventure, excitement, and plenty of Christmas spirit.
New York City, New York, United States
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In December, New York’s iconic tourist attractions come to life with Christmas festivity, drawing travelers in with the promise of vibrant light displays, tall Christmas trees, magical markets, and plenty of fun. As such, the Big Apple is one of the world’s best December travel destinations if you love Christmas.
When you’re not ice skating in Central Park or watching the Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting outside the Rockefeller Center, tuck into festive treats at Union Square Holiday Market and pick up some last-minute Christmas presents in the House of Holiday. Of course, you should also still visit the city’s most famous attractions, such as the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Times Square.
Read also: Best Christmas Holiday Destinations in the US
London, England
Like New York, London turns into a winter wonderland in December, with the city’s most famous streets offering magical Christmas light displays, toy-filled shop windows, towering Christmas trees, and fun for all the family. However, Christmas isn’t the only thing that makes London an epic travel destination in December.
Besides the Christmas festivities, England’s capital city has many exciting things to see and do. History buffs can get lost exploring the Tower of London. Sports fans can watch one of England’s best soccer teams, i.e., Chelsea, Arsenal, and Tottenham. Big foodies can eat until their hearts are content in Box Park and Camden Market, and families with small children can have fun at London Dungeons. What’s not to like?
Read also: Cities Around the World With Stunning Winter Landscapes
Bolzano, Italy
In Bolzano, you can spend your December city break exploring German-style Christmas markets, indulging in authentic Italian food, and admiring South Tyrol’s impressive natural scenery. Most travelers visiting Italy for a city break head to Rome, Florence, and Milan. However, lesser-visited cities like Bolzano have much to offer. In fact, we’d argue Bolzano is one of December’s best travel destinations.
In winter, this charming city is surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped mountains, and its medieval city is often coated in frost, adding to its festive atmosphere. Bolzano is also the gateway to the Dolomites, where you can ski in December. Must-visit attractions in the city include Mareccio Castle, Duomo di Bolzano, and the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
Read also: Awesome Cities for Winter Vacations
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is a famous Alpine village and ski resort in Switzerland’s Valais Canton. As the main resort of the 4 Vallées ski area, it’s one of the world’s best places to travel in December for several reasons. First, this picturesque resort offers outstanding high-altitude skiing. Second, you’ll enjoy magnificent Matterhorn and Mont Blanc views from Mont Fort.
Third, the atmosphere in the town around Christmas and New Year’s is incredible. You can expect live music, parties, and fireworks in Place Centrale. Finally, Verbier’s scenic streets come to life at Christmas with mesmerizing displays of decorations and bright lights. With so much to offer, you might want to start your skiing lessons now.
Read also: Spectacular Spots for Winter Landscapes in the World
Maldives
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise to travel to in December that allows you to escape the gloomy skies and cold weather, the Maldives is perfect. However, you’ll need a big budget to enjoy the luxuries the South Asian country offers. If you’ve got the budget, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime.
In the Maldives, you’ll spend time sunbathing on white sand beaches, relaxing in your overwater villa, snorkeling, scuba diving, and indulging in world-class food and beverages. The Maldives is also an excellent place to visit in December if you love Christmas. Many resorts offer Christmas-themed events, Christmas dinners, and parties. You can also expect daily highs of up to 86°F (30°C).
Read also: Cheap Warm Destinations in December
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
In December, tourists traveling to Dubai can expect a vacation filled with impressive spectacles, warm weather, and many things to do. The main highlight is National Day on December 2nd, which marks the independence of the United Arab Emirates. As such, Dubai is one of the world’s best travel destinations in December.
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During this annual event, travelers can expect magnificent fireworks displays, fascinating LED shows, and vibrant parades. Christmas lovers will also be pleased to hear that Dubai hosts many Christmas markets, such as the Madinat Jumeirah Festive Market and Winter City. Other must-visit attractions include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Fountain. You can enjoy all this with temperatures of 79°F (26°C).
Read also: Winter Sun Destinations in the World
Prague, Czech Republic
One of the world’s best city breaks in December is Prague, where you can enjoy architectural wonders, atmospheric streets, winter-themed events, and delicious cuisine. The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is well-known for its rich history and breathtaking medieval architecture, most of which can be found in the Old Town Square.
In December, enjoy a misty morning walk through the city’s narrow cobblestone streets, explore the Christmas markets, spot the lamplighter on Charles Bridge, and participate in a spooky ghost tour through the city’s medieval streets. Notable points of interest in Prague include Mala Strana Square, Prague Castle, Prague Astronomical Clock, and St. Vitus Cathedral. Oh, and don’t forget to try a chimney cake.
Read also: European Cities for an Awesome Winter Holiday
Iceland
Iceland is one of the world’s best December travel destinations if you want to explore the great outdoors, try new things, and increase your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis. Iceland is much darker in December, increasing the likelihood of a colorful Northern Lights display. However, you’ll still need luck to spot the lights.
Besides, the Aurora Borealis isn’t the only reason you’d travel to Iceland. You’d also visit the island to explore its impressive landscapes and beautiful capital city, Reykjavik. Head out and explore the island when you’re not admiring the sights and smells at Reykjavik Christmas market or visiting famous landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja and the Sun Voyager. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss Falls, and Thingvellir National Park.
Read also: European Cities With Breathtaking Winter Landscapes
Cape Town, South Africa
In Cape Town, you can enjoy a combination of city break, beaches, wildlife, and nature. One day, you’ll find yourself wandering along a beach. Next, you’ll head out on a big five safari or explore the bustling city center. Furthermore, Cape Town is one of the best places to visit in December for winter sun.
Throughout December, you can expect daily highs of 81°F (27°C). Better yet, there are many hiking opportunities, two main highlights being Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Must-visit attractions in Cape Town include Fish Hoek Beach, the V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, and Boulder’s Beach. You might also want to watch the festive lights switch on and explore the Christmas markets.
Read also: Cheap Warm Destinations in November
Paris, France
Paris, the capital of France, is magical year-round, but the city is pretty special come December. Wrap up warm and spend the day exploring iconic attractions, sipping a Christmas blend in a cozy cafe, buying presents in the markets, sampling Christmas-themed cuisine, and admiring the city’s vibrant Christmas decorations.
Besides the epic attractions and delightful Christmas atmosphere, winter is a great time to visit Paris because it’s much quieter. However, crowds will increase again closer to Christmas. Therefore, for a short time, you’ll find smaller queues at world-famous attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe. If you want a super festive vacation with your children, spend a day at Disneyland Paris.
Read also: Winter Sun Destinations in Europe
Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye is an incredible place to spend a December vacation if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, enjoy a more laid-back Christmas experience, and explore Scotland’s picturesque scenery. Portree, the island’s largest town, is a fantastic place to base yourself.
Portree has many things to see and do, especially in December when the Christmas festivities roll in, but you’ll likely spend most of your time exploring the island. From the town, you can easily visit the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools, the Fairy Glen, and Bride Veil Falls. Meanwhile, in Portree, you should see the harbor, tuck into haggis in a cozy cafe, and drink local whiskey in a traditional pub.
Read also: Warmest Places in Europe in Winter
Miami, Florida, United States
Miami is one of the best places in the world to travel in December if you dream of a winter break with more warmth, style, and luxury. Regarded as one of the world’s most luxurious travel destinations, Miami has luxury resorts, high-end boutiques, upscale restaurants, and exclusive nightclubs.
The city also has many things to see and do, including the iconic Miami Beach Boardwalk. Along this 7-mile (11.2-kilometer) boardwalk, you’ll find a pristine palm tree-lined beach, shops, and restaurants. Other noteworthy points of interest in the city include Miami Beach, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Bayfront Park, and Little Havana. Another significant draw to Miami in December is mild 75°F (24°C) temperatures.
Read also: Winter Sun Destinations in the US
