19 Best Places to Travel in December for Your Dreamy Winter Getaway
By As December starts and the holiday season approaches, many people plan a refreshing trip. But where should you travel in December so that you can make the most of your trip? As the temperature lowers in December, tourists from around the globe root to explore the best places to travel in December.
This month welcomes tourists who love shopping with the lively festive markets in Europe. You will also experience the rich cultural vibes in Asia and be provided with several amazing things and places to explore. Join us as we solve the quest for where to travel in December and discover some of the most breathtaking destinations.
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Dresden
Dresden qualifies as one of the best places to visit in December. Its rich past, cultural legacy, and beautiful architecture make it stand out among the other best places to travel in December. Getting around Dresden is not a difficult task.
It is easier to get around Dresden via a train from Leipzig or a bus from Prague. In December, the average highs are around 3.5°C, whereas at night, it can be relatively colder.
Some of the city’s major attractions include the Dresden Frauenkirche and the Fortress Dresden. Visiting Dresden will allow you to explore the Old Town (Altstadt), walk along the Elbe River, and witness the Baroque and Rococo beauty. Don’t forget to pack warm clothes and an umbrella to avoid unforeseen problems.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido is the best place to visit in December for those who want to enjoy winter to the fullest and experience all the amazing winter sports firsthand. The cold weather makes it a winter paradise, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 3°C.
Traveling to Hokkaido is very easy. You can conveniently grab an international flight from New Chitose Airport to Hong Kong and other cities.
The island’s major attractions include Lake Toya and the Shiretoko Peninsula. Ensure you also visit the Sapporo Snow Festival, Furano, and Otaru. A trip to Asahiyama Zoo and the Sapporo Beer Museum will be a perfect amusement for wildlife lovers.
Bath
Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is nestled in the southwest of England. Reaching Bath is easy as it just takes 80 minutes to travel from London via a train, or a short drive from the M4 and M5 expressways. When visiting this city in December, you should experience cold weather. The temperatures can exceed upto 47°F (8°C) and can be as low as 38°F (3°C).
The major attractions that make it one of the best places to travel in December include Roman Baths (Abbey Church Yard). It allows the tourists to see the traditional thermal baths from old times.
A place worth visiting in Bath includes No.1 Royal Crescent. You can also take guided tours, explore Georgian architecture, and enjoy the city’s lively cultural scene. The exclusive spas, canal boat tours, and seasonal events at Royal Victoria Park are also Bath’s must-experience adventures.
Sweden
Located in Northern Europe, this Nordic country is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel in December. Traveling to Sweden is easier if you opt to travel via air, as several international airports operate in the country. North Americans can fly directly or via a connecting flight to Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN).
In December, the temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 38°F (3°C). You can also expect a beautiful snowfall, especially in ski resorts. Major attractions in Sweden include Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Ystad. Visiting the Vasa Museum, Skansen, and seeing the northern lights are also some worthwhile experiences.
Brno
Brno, Czech Republic, can easily travel by train or bus from Prague. In December, Brno observes cold temperatures. The average highs are around 4 °C; at night, it is around -2°C. You should also expect slight snow and rainfall. Brno’s major attractions include the iconic Špilberk Castle, the Petrov Cathedral, and the Villa Tugendhat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Brno’s major attractions include the exotic nightlife and delicious Czech traditional dishes. You should also visit Europe’s largest exhibition center, the Brno Exhibition Centre. The city features thrilling motorbike races on the Masaryk Circuit and an international fireworks competition, Ignis Brunensis.
Brno is also one of the best places to travel in December for those who prefer to travel to less crowded and cheaper places.
Teide National Park
It is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but is also home to Spain’s highest mountain, Mount Teide. While traveling to Teide National Park, you can opt for the TF-21 and La Esperanza roads. The average temperature during the day is 18°C and 13°C at night.
The major highlights of this place that make it one of the best places to travel include El Pico del Teide, Roque Cinchado, and Montaña de Guajara. Out of several activities you can experience here, hiking, cable car trips, and stargazing top the list. The Pico Viejo, nestled in this park is the second-highest volcano.
Florida
Florida aka the Sunshine State. The easiest way to get around Florida is to fly via Miami International Airport (MIA) and Orlando International Airport (MCO).
If you want to opt for a road trip, take Interstate highways such as I-75 and I-95. Traveling in December, expect good weather with average temperatures ranging from 64°F to 76°F.
Florida’s major attraction is its beautiful white-sand beaches. The Everglades National Park and St. Augustine are also must-see destinations in Florida. When traveling with your family, visit Walt Disney World or relax at Siesta Key and Clearwater Beach. Don’t skip traveling to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami and the Dry Tortugas National Park.
London
London City is located on the River Thames and can be easily accessed via Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport. Getting around London gets easier if you opt to travel by train. Being the Capital City of England, it also qualifies as its largest city. The daytime highs are around nine °C, and nighttime lows are around 3°C.
The city’s major attractions, which you will love to explore, include Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the Tower of London. During your trip to London, you can find joy even in the smallest things, like walking on the beautiful streets and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes while traveling in December.
RELATED: The 11 Best Day Trips from London
U.S. Virgin Islands
You can fly via the Cyril E. King Airport to reach the U.S. Virgin Islands. In December, you should expect mild weather with daytime highs ranging from the mid-70s to the high 80s and very little rainfall. These Islands are not only a group of Caribbean islands but also a territory of the United States.
You can enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and the electrifying nightlife. Famous attractions in these islands include the Virgin Islands National Park, the district of Christiansted, and beautiful beaches like Trunk Bay.
French Alps
The French Alps can be easily traveled via the Chambery Airport and the Geneva Airport. If you are comfortable with road trips, you can also consider driving. In December, expect daytime highs around ten °C and nighttime lows around 4°C. Chamonix, which offers skiing and hiking opportunities, is one of the major attractions of this place, making it one of the best places to travel in December.
You can also visit Vercors Regional Natural Park, Grenoble, Aix-les-Bains, Val d’Isère, and the Cirque du Fer-à-Cheval offers awe-inspiring views. Explore Megève, Chambéry, and the scenic Route du Galibier. One of the most important things is to have an accurate update about the weather to avoid any unforeseen situations.
Lapland
You can get around Lapland by taking the Santa Claus Express night train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. When traveling in December, expect lower temperatures ranging from 3°C to 9°C. Major attractions of Lapland include northern lights, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and staying in glass igloos.
Lapland’s beautiful scenery, Sámi culture, reindeer, and the world’s freshest atmosphere make it one of the best places to travel in December. Don’t miss meeting Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa.
Bahamas
Comprised of more than 700 islands, The Bahamas is renowned as a tropical paradise. It serves endless opportunities to soak up the sun, sand, and stunning sea experiences. To reach here, you can easily fly into Maurice Bishop International Airport. In December, you must face warm temperatures around 27°C with minimal rainfall.
Discover the lively city of Nassau, historic sites like the Pirates of Nassau Museum, and relaxing parks. You can also visit the island capital of Grand Bahama and enjoy golf, water sports, and duty-free shopping. A visit to the Garden of the Groves, Taino Beach, and Xanadu Beach is also a worthwhile experience.
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Phuket
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island. It is one of the best places to travel in December and you can travel here via Phuket International Airport. The weather in December is usually perfect, with an average high of 31°C and a low of 23°C. It’s the ideal month to uncover attractions like Patong Beach, Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Kata Noi Beach.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, then day trips to the Phi Phi Islands and Kamala Beach, where you can indulge in water activities, will be one of the most memorable experiences.
Bhutan
Bhutan aka the land of thunder dragons, is in the Himalayas. To travel to Bhutan, you can consider flying into Paro International Airport. In December, expect chilly weather with daytime temperatures around 15°C and nighttime temperatures as low as -1°C.
Major highlights of Bhutan that make it one of the best places to visit include the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s national parks, Paro, Thimphu, Jakar, and Ha. Whether you love monastic festivals, trekking, or serene moments, Bhutan will refresh your mind, body, and soul.
Torres del Paine National Park
Torres del Paine National Park, nestled in Southern Patagonia welcomes its tourists with its astounding beauty. You can travel here by taking a 2-hour bus ride from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales. While traveling in December, you should expect rainy weather. Daytime temperature averages around nine °C, and heavy rainfall is common.
In this heaven, you can also explore the Cordillera del Paine and Grey Glacier and find peace in the calm lakes like Pehoé and Nordenskiöld. For thrill lovers, the Mirador Las Torres hike awaits, while glacier exploration, kayaking, and horseback riding are the major highlights of the adventure.
Grenada
To travel to this island nation in the Caribbean, fly to Maurice Bishop International Airport. December is a great time to visit Grenada as the temperatures are slightly warm, around 27°C, and there is little rainfall.
Grenada’s major attractions include the Grenada National Museum, where visitors can learn about the island’s heritage, and Grand Etang National Park, where they can discover stunning lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife.
You should also visit the Fort George. Grenada features a unique blend of natural charm, history, and adventure. Don’t skip visiting the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park to end your trip on the best note.
New York City
To reach a city that never sleeps, consider flying via the John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The daytime temperature is around 11°C, and there is little rain.
Traveling to New York City in December can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This magical city sparkles at Christmas with its decorated streets, ice skating rinks in Central Park, and festive window displays on Fifth Avenue.
Major attractions of NYC include Times Square, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, sampling New York-style pizza, and observing the skyline from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck is also worth experiencing.
RELATED: 17 Unforgettable Day Trips from NYC
Quebec City, Canada
Québec City is nestled in Eastern Canada and it takes only 2.5 hours by car from Montreal. To reduce the traveling time you can consider taking a 1.5-hour flight from New York or Toronto.
In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, expect mild snowfall. One of the most beautiful parts of the Quebec City trip is the cobblestone streets of Old Québec, the only protected city north of Mexico.
Don’t miss the Ice Hotel, an architectural wonder, and experience the winter activities like tobogganing and snowshoeing. For a memorable end, visit the Nordic baths. You can also ice skate on the Dufferin Terrasse, which overlooks the St. Lawrence River.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the best places to travel in December and you can travel here by taking a flight via the Maurice Bishop International Airport. In December, expect warm temperatures around 27°C and minimal rainfall.
If you’re a history buff, you will love the ancient ruins of Sri Lanka. You can also get enthralled with wildlife safaris, beautiful beaches, and cultural heritage.
Explore the Grenada National Museum, hike through the Grand Etang National Park, and visit the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park for divers.
The Quest for the Best Places to Travel in December Comes to an End
As December approaches, the world changes into a winter wonderland housing several beautiful destinations waiting to be discovered. From rich cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, the options are endless for those searching for the best places to visit in December. A trip to any of the above-mentioned best places to travel in December allows you to witness nature’s charm and serenity.
FAQs
What are the expert December travel tips?
Some of the expert December travel tips that will allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest without any unforeseen problems include planning early, packing wisely, being flexible with your schedule, staying in contact with travel agencies, and staying safe.
What are the December getaway ideas for adventurers?
Outdoor enthusiasts can consider several options while planning a trip to the best places to visit in December. These include skiing and snowboarding, hiking, camping in a desert, and climbing on ice.
Where can we find the ultimate December travel experiences for wildlife enthusiasts?
For those who love exploring wildlife, the best places to travel in December are the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, Kruger National Park in South Africa, Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, and Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica.
