The best places to travel in December

From the sparkling lights of seasonal wonderlands, to the shimmering seas of winter-sun hotspots, Rough Guides’ experts have combed the globe to bring you this run-down of the best places to travel in December. Whether you're longing to sip mulled wine while meandering Europe’s cutest Christmas markets, or are desperate to ditch your winter gear for beach wear, you’ll find stacks of inspiration below.

1. St Lucia, Lesser Antilles

Why visit: Caribbean sun, snorkeling and adventure
Average temperature: 24°C-29°C (84°F) (75°F 84°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

World-class beaches, tropical rainforests, epic underwater wildlife, and the world’s only drive-in volcano. St Lucia is certain to leave you with lifelong memories, and delivers everything you could wish for when it comes to winter sun bliss. 

While the island’s beaches, crystalline waters and boutique resorts make it a hot honeymoon destination, this lush island is also ripe for outdoor adventures. 

How about hiking the twin peaks of its iconic volcanic Piton mountains, or ziplining through pristine rainforest landscapes?

If you’re into nature, go on a guided trek through Mount Edmund Forest Reserve — a beautiful place to spot endemic birds like the St Lucia Parrot and St Lucia Oriole. 

Back on the coast, Anse Chastanet Marine Park is one of the best easy-access reefs in the Caribbean. Home to 150 species of marine life — with coral gardens and fringing reefs close to the shoreline — this is especially satisfying for beginner snorkelers. 

Where to stay: nature-loving foodies should consider Rabot Hotel/Hotel Chocolat, which offers luxury eco-cottages on a lush cocoa plantation.

Or, to enjoy top service and food with incredible snorkeling on the doorstep, head to Anse Chastanet.

2. Lapland, Finland

Why visit: Santa Claus, snow adventures and the Northern Lights
Average temperature: -13°C--6°C (21°F-9°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Lapland, Finland’s northernmost region, really is out-of-this-world magical. A picture-perfect landscape that Father Christmas himself calls home, with displays of the Northern Lights common throughout December.

To meet the man, head to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. After telling him you’ve been very, very good and sharing your Christmas wish list, visit the nearby Arktikum Science Centre and Museum to find out about the region’s indigenous Sami people.

Given that Lapland is one of the best snow holiday destinations in the world, it’ll come as no surprise that this is a great place to go cross-country skiing, and to sled snow-shrouded forests. 

Editor’s tip: to see the northern lights and Santa, book our Aurora Feast trip.

Where to stay: for five-star Santa treatment, try Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. 

Meanwhile, the cosy, kid-friendly Tilhi Chalet has gardens, games and sleds.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

Why visit: festive atmosphere, food and theatre
Average temperature: 1°C-5°C (41°F)-34°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$200

If you fancy enjoying a fabulously festive UK vacation, consider heading to Edinburgh. 

December’s Christmas markets in East Princes Street Gardens and George Street are a joy to wander by day, with the Edinburgh Playhouse, King’s Theatre, and lots of other cultural hubs presenting holiday-themed shows and pantomimes in the afternoons and evenings.

While the Winter Wonderland is on hand to keep kids happy with carousel rides and an outdoor ice-skating rink, the city’s historic attractions exude added atmosphere at this time of year.

We also suggest wrapping up to stroll Holyrood Park and climb Arthur’s Seat before taking a whiskey-taking tour to warm up. 

Been there, done that? Discover ways to explore Edinburgh’s quirkier side. 

Editor’s tip: fancy visiting Edinburgh in December? See our Festive Feelings itinerary. 

Where to stay: for atmospheric indulgence, head to The Witchery by the Castle. Located moments from the castle, it boasts antique furniture, tapestry-draped beds, roll-top baths and complimentary champagne.

For a buzzy vibe in a listed building, check out Grassmarket Hotel.

4. Baqueira-Beret, Spain

Why visit: sensational skiing and scenic seasonal charm
Average temperature: -6°C-2°C (21°F-36°F)
Average daily budget: $200-$250

Located in the Catalan Pyrenees, Baqueira Beret is one of Spain’s largest and most popular ski resorts, and one of the world's best skiing and snow-boarding destinations.

With over 160km of slopes catering to all levels, adventurous travelers can also go off-piste and enjoy a snowshoeing adventure, or experience the thrill of dog-sledding.

When the day is done, Baqueira Beret boasts a vibrant après-ski scene. Or, when you want to mix things up, visit charming villages like Vielha, capital of the Val d'Aran, to enjoy Aranese food.

Where to stay: set at the foot of some of the finest ski slopes in the Pyrenees, the 4-star Hotel MIM Baqueira Luxury & SPA also offers stunning mountain views.

Looking for a more affordable option? Located in Salardú’s Old Town, 4km from Baqueira Beret Ski Resort, Hotel Deth Pais offers great Pyrenees views, with a ski school and ski storage.

5. Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Why visit: wildlife, nature and a festival of light 
Average temperature: 22°C-30°C (72°F-86°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$250

A dazzling destination of unspoiled rainforests, beautiful beaches, and off-the-scale wildlife-watching experiences, dry-season December is a top time to visit Costa Rica — one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. 

One of the best places to experience said biodiversity is on the Osa Peninsula in the southern province of Puntarenas.  

Here Corcovado National Park — one of the most beautiful national parks in Costa Rica, and a great place to hike — offers the chance to see incredible wildlife, including tapirs and jaguars.  

Come December, consider timing your visit to coincide with San Jose's fabulous Festival de la Luz before heading to the Osa Peninsula.

Held on the second Saturday of December, this Festival of Lights welcomes the start of the Christmas season with parades, music and spectacular firework displays.

Editor’s tip: discover how to plan a trip to Costa Rica courtesy of our content manager’s personal experiences. Or, to forgo the hassle of planning, our customisable Costa Rica Eco Adventure covers the Osa Peninsula.

Where to stay: Santa Juana Lodge is stunningly sited, with a bounty of birds, waterfalls and walks.

We also rate La Leona Eco Lodge, which offers cute candle-lit beach cabins near Corcovado National Park.

Looking for more ideas for an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica? Explore our range of 7-day itineraries in Costa Rica.

6. Bavaria, Germany

Why visit: Christmas markets, medieval magic and winter sports 
Average temperature: -4°C-2°C (25°F -36°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$200

Whether you opt to base yourself in a city like Munich or Nuremberg, or fancy traveling around the region’s scenic villages, visiting Bavaria in December means you’ll see a stack of seasonal markets that serve the epitome of Christmas magic

This is also a top time to visit iconic historic attractions like Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle, which look particularly picturesque surrounded by snow. 

The same is true of charming medieval villages like Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

In addition, the Bavarian Alps offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, with hearty traditional food and glühwein on hand to keep you well-fed, watered and warm.

Editor's tip: to experience tonnes of seasonal scenery, book our self-drive drive from the Rhine to Bavaria.

Where to stay: Hotel Am Markt makes a great three-star base in the centre of Munich.

Meanwhile, if you're heading to Nuremberg, Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg is an elegant option. It has an art deco-style bar and gorgeous views.

Going to Munich instead? Don't miss the chance to choose the best places to stay in the city.

7. Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Why visit: tropical waterways and culture 
Average temperature: 22°C- 28°C (72°F-82°F)
Travel time from UK: 16-18 hours
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Voted one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam by Rough Guides’ readers, the Mekong Delta presents some of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes. By which we mean emerald paddy fields, floating markets and lush canals.

And, with the dry season running from December to May, it’s one of the best places to visit in December.  

To experience the region’s culture and landscapes at one fell swoop, you’ll want to head to the floating markets, mangroves and fruit orchards around Can Tho.

The Khmer Pagodas around Tra Vinh are another must-visit. Here over 100 beautiful Buddhist temples showcase the remarkable artistry of the Khmer people.

Editor’s tip: vacationing as a couple? Our customisable Vietnam for Romantics trip offers a rewarding mix of culture and nature.

Where to stay: Mekong Lodge Resort offers pretty riverfront bungalows surrounded by lush gardens.

Love food? Phuong Thao Homestay offers on-site cookery classes.

8. Vilnius, Lithuania

Why visit: Christmas Markets, culture and castles
Average temperature: -6°C--1°C (21°F-30°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Less-visited than comparable spots in Germany, for example, Vilnius boasts beautiful Christmas markets and historic attractions that are rarely crowded. 

Its UNESCO-designated Old Town, and landmarks like the Vilnius Cathedral, Gediminas' Tower and Gate of Dawn are simply magical at this time of year, as are the outdoor ice rinks.

While in town, we suggest taking a day trip to Trakai Castle. Located just west of Vilnius, and surrounded by a frozen lake, it dates back to the 1400s and boasts dramatic turrets and a drawbridge that seem conjured from the pages of a fairy tale. 

Editor's tip: to experience the best of the Baltics, book our Baltic Highlights trip.

Where to stay: if you're looking for luxury, try the Grand Hotel. Alternatively, if you're on a budget, Old Town Trio Hostel is a good option.

9. Durban, South Africa

Why visit: winter sun, surf and city safaris
Average temperature: 20°C-28°C (68°F-82°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

With over 320 days of sunshine a year, Durban — South Africa's third biggest city — is a great place to enjoy a different kind of a sun-soaked winter escape.

Though somewhat under the radar, there are plenty of reasons your next trip should be to Durban. 

First up, the city’s beaches offer great surf, while arty types will be sated by all manner of cool contemporary galleries, with the Campbell Collections showcasing artefacts and documents reflecting Zulu and Natal culture.

Everyone knows South Africa is synonymous with safari, but did you know you can see rhinos, giraffes, hippos and more just an hour’s drive from Durban?  

For example, a bushwalk or jeep safari at Tala Game Reserve offers the chance to see these magnificent beasts in their natural habitat.

Planning to go it alone? Read up on South Africa's best road-trip routes or, if you’re not keen on planning, browse our customisable South Africa itineraries.

Where to stay: traveling with kids? Holland House B&B has family suites and a pool.

In the market for something upmarket? The five-star Oyster Box is a beachfront beauty with opulent touches.

10. Tenerife, Canary Islands

Why visit: vitamin D by the sea, adventure and fine dining
Average temperature: 15°C- 21°C (59°F-(70°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$200

Fancy enjoying the buzz of summer resort life in December? Head to Tenerife’s south side for busy bars, restaurants and seasonal shows.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a quieter winter-sun vibe, check out picturesque Puerto de la Cruz.

December is also a top month to venture beyond this Canary Island’s tourist hubs to soak up natural beauty, from lunar-like landscapes and pine forests, to charming mountain villages.

Keen hikers should pack their boots to explore the UNESCO-designated Teide National Park, home to Spain’s tallest peak, El Teide, which also happens to be one of the world's top star-gazing spots.

If that wasn't enough, Tenerife has a stack of Michelin-starred restaurants, including Haydée in the lovely hilltop town of La Orotava. In fact, you'll find plenty of great places to eat here, and La Orotava makes a beautiful base from which to explore the island.

Where to stay: set in an elegant mansion, Hotel Alhambra, Orotava, has a pool, courtyard and exotic garden.

Vacationing with kids? Offering six pools and plus on-site activities and entertainment, Hotel Best Jacaranda is a good option. You can also find more accommodation option in our guide to the best area to stay in Tenerife.

11. Harbin, northeast China

Why visit: Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, winter sports and wildlife
Average temperature: -20°C- -10°C (-4°F-14°F)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

If you don’t mind it cold (and we mean seriously cold!), visit Harbin in northeast China in winter to experience the world's largest ice and snow sculpture festival. 

It kicks off in late December and features stunning ice and snow sculptures, ice lanterns and winter adventures.

On that subject, Harbin also offers access to tonnes of snow-related activities, with Sun Island a popular spot for winter sports.

Love nature and wildlife? Be sure to visit the Siberian Tiger Park to see these magnificent animals in a semi-wild environment, while Harbin Polarland offers opportunities to see polar bears, penguins, and other arctic animals. 

We also suggest taking the time to discover Harbin's rich Russian heritage, as seen in its architecture, food, and culture. 

Where to stay: for five-star style, head to Wanda Realm Harbin Hotel, while Harbin Joy Boutique Hotel is a good three-star choice.

12. Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe 

Why visit: Caribbean-Gallic cuisine, culture and tropical sun
Average temperature: 23°C-29°C (73°F-84°F
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Exuding joie de vivre at every turn, Terre-de-Haut ­— the largest of Guadeloupe’s Iles des Saintes — feels both sophisticated and amiably unpretentious as it serves a moreish mix of top-notch Caribbean-Gallic cuisine and culture.

Its Old Town brims with bistros, boulangeries, boutiques and ice-cream parlours, with Fort Napoleon revealing Les Saintes’ history from 114 metres above sea level.

This being the Caribbean, Terre-de-Haut isn’t short of beautiful beaches, either, all of them boasting sugar-soft sand and warm waters that are ripe for rewarding snorkeling trips.

Expert’s tip: dine at La Fringale for fabulous French-Creole cuisine, super-friendly service, superb Chablis and local rum at pocket-pleasing prices.  

Where to stay: on a budget? Head to the beachfront Les hamacs aux Saintes.

We also rate Hôtel Bois Joli. It has a pool, private beach and breath-taking views.

13. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Why visit: serene winter wonderland scenery and incredible wildlife
Average temperature: -15°C-5°C (5°F- (23°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Often extremely cold in December, with significant snowfall, visiting Yellowstone National Park in December means dressing warm to experience a veritable winter wonderland of snow-covered trees, frozen lakes and steaming geysers.

Wildlife in Yellowstone is very evident in winter when snow on the high ground of this vast, volcanic National Park compels bison to migrate to lower grazing areas. 

It’s also a good time to potentially spot wolves, elk and eagles, and to go snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. 

Editor’s tip: given that Yellowstone attracts tonnes of tourists around the year, find out how to lose the crowds.

Where to stay: both located in West Yellowstone near the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, Wagon Wheel Hotel and Geyser Getaway are also close to the park entrance.

14. Taghazout, Morocco

Why visit: surfing, wellness and outdoor adventure
Average temperature: 12°C-22°C (54°F-72°F)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

Part fishing village, part surf hub, Taghazout lies just north of Morocco's Agadir. Come December, winter swells bring consistent and powerful waves to the like of Anchor Point, Panorama, and Hash Point.

If surfing doesn’t float your boat and you're seeking winter R&R, simply stretch out on the beaches, or take advantage of the fact that Taghazout is also a wellness hub, with many surf camps and hotels offering yoga sessions.

To further mix things up, take a day trip to Paradise Valley — an oasis in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. 

A short hike leads to a limestone flanked gorge, where enticing pools and waterfalls appear out of nowhere — the ideal swimming spot during hot and dusty months. 

Editor’s tip: if Morocco's made your shortlist of winter sun destinations, read up on things not to miss in Morocco, and places to get off the tourist trail in Morocco.

Where to stay: sociable hostel AdventureKeys Surf Yoga does exactly what its name suggests at a great price.

If you're looking for all-inclusive luxury, try Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Taghazout.

15. Banff National Park, Canada

Why visit: winter wonderland sports and scenery
Average temperature: -15°C- -5°C (5°F-23°F
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Banff National Park comes close to paradise if you’re a skier or snowboarder, with three world-class resorts located in the park.

Two of these are close to Banff – Mount Norquay and Sunshine Village – with another in Lake Louise, which boasts especially clear waters at this time of year. 

On top of enjoying an array of winter activities — from skating, ice-fishing and tobogganing, to sledding, snow-shoeing and sleigh-riding — you’ll also experience crisp air and monumental mountains.

Where to stay: Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is moments from top-rated ski trails and scenic hiking paths.

We also rate Banff National Park Wood Lodge.

16. Krabi, Thailand

Why visit: idyllic island sun, island-hopping, water sports and nature
Average temperature: 23°C-31°C (73°F-88°F)
Average daily budget: $80-$120

December marks the beginning of the dry season in Krabi, with near-perfect conditions for blissing out on the beaches it’s famed for, among them Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Phra Nang Cave Beach. 

If you exhaust Krabi’s beautiful beaches, it’s a great base from which to explore to nearby islands like the Phi Phi Islands, Hong Islands and the Four Islands. 

Beyond the beach, don’t miss visiting national parks like Mu Ko Lanta National Park and Than Bok Khorani National Park to hike, watch wildlife and explore extraordinary caves and waterfalls.

Editor’s tip: discover how to spend up to a week in Krabi, or uncover the island on our Krabi Discovery trip.

Where to stay: need to be in Krabi Town? Try The Pineapple Hotel.

For lush tropical gardens and a pool with a view, Ban Sainai Resort is near Ao Nang beach.

17. Quito, Ecuador

Why visit: culture, festivals and Andean adventure
Average temperature: 10°C-19°C (50°F-66°F)
Average daily budget: $60-$100

Thanks to its altitude Quito — capital of Ecuador — experiences a mild climate year-round, with the weather in Quito in December lending itself well to exploring the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site attractions, and venturing further afield to explore the Andes.

In terms of your itinerary, you could alternate between visiting Quito's well-preserved colonial buildings and museums with hiking and exploring nearby natural attractions like Pichincha volcano and the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument.

As for extra reasons to visit in December, this month sees Quito host its Festival of Lights, when the city's landmarks are illuminated with colourful projections.

In addition, Feria Navideña La Carolina and Feria Navideña El Quinde offer the chance to soak up seasonal atmosphere, sample local food and buy artisanal handicrafts.

Editor’s tip: to experience a variety of the country, book our customisable Ecuadorian Highlands and Amazon Jungle trip.

Where to stay: the 4-star Anahi Boutique Hotel comes recommended by our local Ecuador experts. 

Meanwhile, Mama Cuchara by Art Hotels is a wonderful 5-star in the centre of the old town.

18. Grenoble, French Alps

Why visit: markets, skiing and stunning Alpine scenery
Average temperature: -1°C-6°C (30°F-43°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Serenely-sited at the confluence of the Drac and Isère rivers, Grenoble — the self-styled “capital of the Alps” — is a cosmopolitan place, with a charming mix of modern and medieval buildings packed into its centre.

Thanks to its awe-inspiring Alpine scenery and access to excellent ski resorts like Les Deux Alpes, Alpe d'Huez, and Chamrousse, visiting in December offers a fantastic winter experience.

Add to that fabulous festive Christmas markets, and a rich cultural heritage, as revealed by its ancient Bastille fort, and it’s easy to spend a few weeks here. 

Grenoble is also one of the best places to travel in December for foodies, with the winter chill inviting gourmands to indulge in deliciously soul-warming Alpine dishes, including fondue, raclette, tartiflette, and other hearty mountain meals.

Where to stay: swish but understated, RockyPop Grenoble Hotel is a good choice. We also rate the 1924 Hotel.

19. Fuji Five Lakes, Japan

Why visit: sublime scenery and winter sports
Average temperature: -3°C-8°C (27°F-46°F)
Average daily budget: $120-$250

Sitting outside tourist high season, visiting Fuji Five Lakes, Japan, in December offers clear winter views of Mount Fuji from stunning locations like Lake Kawaguchi and Chureito Pagoda. 

Or how about relaxing in an onsen while being wowed by Mount Fuji? The snow-capped peak against the bright blue sky is a truly stunning sight.

The region is also a top spot in which to enjoy winter sports at classy resorts, all of which adds up to Fuji Five Lakes being one of the best places to travel in December for folks who want to mix relaxation with snowy adventuring.

Editor’s tip: for more December inspiration, browse our customisable Japan Winter Tour itinerary.

Where to stay: spacious and close to a train station, Hotel Grand Fuji is a fresh 4-star option, as is Hotel Nishimura.

20. Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Why visit: beautiful beaches and back-to-nature bliss
Average temperature: 28°C-30°C (82°F-86°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$200

While it’s the paradisiacal beaches that draws most folks here, as revealed in our feature on the best things to do in Mauritius, the island also has plenty to offer nature lovers, especially in December, which marks the start of summer. 

For example, head to Black River Gorges National Park – a UNESCO heritage nature reserve no less — to hike and spot tropical birds, with the nearby village of Chamarel offering trails to glorious waterfalls.

Editor’s tip: book our Delightful Mauritius trip to experience everything this island has to offer.

Where to stay: for luxury in Grand Baie, try Royal Palm Beachcomber. It’s gorgeously scenic and offers spacious rooms and a huge range of services.

Alternatively, the elegant Le Suffren Hotel & Marina is located near many tourist attractions, including the Port Louis Central Market.

Want more end-of-year inspiration? Read up on the best winter sun destinations around the world, and the most beautiful winter destinations. 

And remember, wherever you're thinking of heading, there's sure to be a Rough Guide to enhance every step of your journey.

Not keen on planning? Contact our experts to kick-start creating your ideal trip.