12 Best Places to Visit in December for Sun, Snow & Christmas

I’ll never forget the December I spent watching sunset over the Indian Ocean in Zanzibar, thinking how different it felt from the snowy Christmases of my childhood. That’s when I truly understood December’s magic—it’s a month that can be whatever you want it to be. Whether you’re dreaming of building snowmen or swimming with sea turtles, the world offers endless possibilities for that perfect year-end escape.

After a decade of December travels that have taken me from Arctic ice hotels to tropical beaches, I’ve discovered that this transitional month holds some of the year’s best travel opportunities. The crowds have thinned in many places, the weather is often perfect (whether you prefer “perfect” to mean powder snow or endless sunshine), and there’s a festive spirit that touches nearly every corner of the globe.

Quick tip before you start: Use this platform to find the best flights to any destination at great prices.

This guide represents my personal collection of the ultimate Best Places to Visit in December, carefully curated through years of exploration and countless conversations with locals and fellow travelers.

From Christmas markets that look straight out of a fairytale to tropical islands where winter is just a word in a dictionary, these destinations have earned their place on this list by delivering unforgettable December experiences.

1Zanzibar, Tanzania: Tropical Christmas Paradise

There’s something magical about celebrating Christmas with your feet in warm turquoise water instead of snow boots. Zanzibar in December offers near-perfect weather—warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain—making it one of my top picks for best places to go in December if you’re seeking winter sun.

What stole my heart: The evening I spent at The Rock Restaurant during a low spring tide. Walking across the exposed seabed to reach the tiny island restaurant felt like something from a dream. As we dined on freshly caught lobster while watching the water slowly surround us again, I realized this was the most unique Christmas Eve I’d ever experienced.

• Weather: Average highs around 88°F (31°C) with low rainfall
• Don’t miss: Snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, exploring Stone Town’s winding streets, and spice farm tours
• Where to stay: Zanzi Resort in Kendwa offers breathtaking sunsets and direct beach access
• Local experience: Visit Jozani Forest to see the rare red colobus monkeys

Book a dhow sunset cruise for a romantic evening on the water

Pro Tip

Essential item: A quick-dry sand-free beach towel is perfect for spontaneous beach stops

2Lapland, Finland: Ultimate Winter Wonderland

If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect white Christmas, Finnish Lapland is where that dream comes true. As December deepens, the region receives up to 20 hours of darkness daily—but this means more opportunities to witness the magical Northern Lights and experience the cozy atmosphere of candlelit Arctic resorts.

My most magical moment: Sitting in a glass igloo at the Arctic SnowHotel, watching green auroral waves dance across the sky while wrapped in reindeer furs. The complete silence of the snow-covered forest combined with nature’s greatest light show brought tears to my eyes.

• Weather: Expect temperatures between 5°F to 23°F (-15°C to -5°C) and plenty of snow
• Don’t miss: Husky sledding through frozen forests, meeting Santa at his official village, and ice fishing on pristine lakes
• Where to stay: Glass igloos at Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offer unparalleled Northern Lights viewing
• Local experience: Take a reindeer sleigh ride and learn about Sami culture from indigenous guides

Essential gear: Heated insoles were absolute lifesavers during long outdoor activities

Download the Aurora Forecast app to maximize your chances of seeing the lights

Pro Tip

3Oaxaca, Mexico: Cultural Christmas Celebration

While beach resorts dominate Mexico’s tourism, Oaxaca offers one of the country’s most authentic and culturally rich December experiences. The month is filled with unique traditions, from the Night of the Radishes on December 23rd to the colorful Christmas markets bursting with handmade crafts and traditional foods.

What captivated me: Watching local artisans create intricate radish sculptures for the annual competition. The creativity and skill displayed in carving religious scenes from giant radishes was astonishing—and the festive atmosphere in the zócalo (main square) was utterly infectious.

• Weather: Pleasant daytime temperatures around 75°F (24°C) with cool evenings
• Don’t miss: The Christmas markets for handmade crafts, mole tasting tours, and Monte Albán archaeological site
• Where to stay: Hotel Escondido Oaxaca offers beautiful design in a perfect central location
• Local experience: Take a traditional cooking class to learn the secrets of perfect mole

Essential item: A compact crossbody bag kept my belongings secure in crowded markets

Don’t leave without trying tlayudas (giant crispy tortillas) and hot chocolate at Chocolate Mayordomo

Food Tip

4Vienna, Austria: Classic Christmas Magic

Vienna in December is what Christmas dreams are made of—the air smells of gingerbread and mulled wine, classical music drifts from Baroque palaces, and the city’s famous Christmas markets sparkle with fairy lights and tradition. It remains one of my favorite Best Places to Visit in December for those seeking old-world holiday charm.

My most memorable evening: Attending a Mozart concert at the Golden Hall of the Musikverein just days before Christmas. The musicians in period costumes, the breathtaking architecture, and the perfect acoustics made “Silent Night” feel like I was hearing it for the first time.

• Weather: Cold with temperatures 28°F to 38°F (-2°C to 3°C)—perfect for warm drinks
• Don’t miss: The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, Schönbrunn Palace market, and ice skating in front of City Hall
• Where to stay: Hotel Sacher Wien for classic luxury and their famous Sachertorte
• Local experience: Attend an Advent concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Essential item: Thermal glove liners allowed me to use my phone while keeping hands warm

Visit markets on weekdays before 4 PM to avoid the biggest crowds

Pro Tip

5Maldives: Ultimate Luxury Escape

For the ultimate “winter doesn’t exist” experience, the Maldives in December offers near-perfect conditions with minimal rainfall, calm seas, and incredible visibility for diving. This is one of those best travel locations in December where every moment feels like a postcard come to life.

What I’ll never forget: Snorkeling with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay during their feeding season. Watching these graceful giants barrel-roll through plankton-rich waters while tropical fish swarmed around us was the most spectacular wildlife encounter of my life.

• Weather: Ideal conditions with temperatures around 84°F (29°C) and little rain
• Don’t miss: Snorkeling or diving with mantas, romantic sandbank dinners, and overwater spa treatments
• Where to stay: Gili Lankanfushi for the ultimate overwater villa experience
• Local experience: Visit a local fishing village to understand Maldivian culture beyond the resorts

Essential gear: A quality underwater camera is mandatory for capturing the incredible marine life

Book a seaplane transfer for breathtaking aerial views of the atolls

Pro Tip

6New York City, USA: Holiday Spectacle

Manhattan in December is pure magic—the store windows become works of art, ice rinks sparkle beneath skyscrapers, and there’s a festive energy that touches every neighborhood. Despite the cold, it remains one of the world’s most exciting Best Places to Visit in December for urban holiday experiences.

My favorite Christmas memory: Watching the snow fall while ice skating at Wollman Rink in Central Park. With the Manhattan skyline twinkling through the flurries and Christmas carols playing, it felt like being inside the most perfect holiday movie.

• Weather: Cold with temperatures 32°F to 42°F (0°C to 6°C)—perfect for cozy layers
• Don’t miss: The Rockefeller Center tree, holiday windows on Fifth Avenue, and Christmas Spectacular at Radio City
• Where to stay: The Plaza Hotel for fairytale luxury near Central Park
• Local experience: See the Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn—more spectacular each year

Essential item: Compact umbrella gloves kept my hands dry and warm during snowy exploration

7Queenstown, New Zealand: Adventure Christmas

While the Northern Hemisphere bundles up, New Zealand is celebrating Christmas with barbecues and beach days. Queenstown offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu.

Most thrilling experience: Taking the helicopter to hike on Franz Josef Glacier—walking between towering blue ice formations while surrounded by pristine wilderness felt like exploring another planet.

• Weather: Summer conditions with temperatures 59°F to 72°F (15°C to 22°C)
• Don’t miss: Bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge, wine tasting in Gibbston Valley, and Milford Sound cruises
• Where to stay: Eichardt’s Private Hotel for luxury right on the lakefront
• Local experience: Join locals for Christmas Day barbecue at one of Queenstown’s beautiful parks

Book adventure activities early as December is peak season

Pro Tip

8Rome, Italy: Christmas with La Dolce Vita

Rome in December offers the perfect blend of religious significance, cultural richness, and fewer crowds than other times of year. The weather is crisp but manageable, and the city’s churches and piazzas glow with festive decorations, making it one of the most rewarding italian cities for a Christmas visit.

My most moving moment: Attending Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Even from outside in the square, watching the Pope deliver his Urbi et Orbi blessing to thousands of pilgrims from around the world was a powerful spiritual experience I’ll never forget.

• Weather: Cool with temperatures 41°F to 55°F (5°C to 13°C)—perfect for walking
• Don’t miss: The Vatican’s nativity scene, Christmas markets at Piazza Navona, and the Feast of Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve
• Where to stay: Hotel Eden for luxury with incredible city views
• Local experience: Take a Christmas food tour through Trastevere to sample seasonal treats
• Essential item: Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable for exploring Rome’s cobblestone streets

Book Vatican tickets months in advance for December visits

Pro Tip

9Bangkok, Thailand: Tropical Urban Adventure

For travelers seeking warmth, culture, and incredible value, Bangkok in December delivers perfect weather conditions for exploring temples, markets, and vibrant neighborhoods. The city embraces the holiday season with spectacular mall decorations and festive events while maintaining its tropical climate.

Most delicious discovery: Taking a nighttime food tour through Chinatown’s street food stalls. From sizzling seafood to exotic fruits and sweet treats, experiencing Bangkok’s incredible food scene under festive lights was a feast for all senses.

• Weather: Ideal with temperatures 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C) and low humidity
• Don’t miss: The Grand Palace, floating markets, and holiday displays at Siam Paragon
• Where to stay: The Peninsula Bangkok for luxury on the Chao Phraya River
• Local experience: Take a Thai cooking class to learn authentic holiday dishes

Visit temples early in the day to avoid both crowds and heat

Pro Tip

10Swiss Alps: Fairytale Christmas

For the ultimate white Christmas experience, the Swiss Alps offer storybook villages, precision timing, and world-class winter sports. The combination of stunning natural beauty, efficient transportation, and cozy mountain traditions makes this one of the most reliable Best Places to Visit in December for snow lovers.

My coziest memory: Sitting by a crackling fire in a Zermatt chalet, watching snow fall against the illuminated Matterhorn while enjoying rich Swiss hot chocolate. The perfect harmony of natural beauty and human comfort felt like the definition of holiday hygge.

• Weather: Cold with temperatures 23°F to 34°F (-5°C to 1°C) and excellent snow conditions
• Don’t miss: Christmas markets in Montreux, glacier skiing, and the Glacier Express train journey
• Where to stay: Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne for luxury with lake views
• Local experience: Ride Christmas trains to “Santa’s Village” at Mount Titlis

Essential gear: Quality thermal layers made outdoor activities comfortable for hours

11Costa Rica: Eco-Adventure Escape

December marks the beginning of Costa Rica’s dry season, offering sunny days perfect for exploring rainforests, volcanoes, and Pacific beaches. It’s one of the good places to go in december for travelers who want adventure without extreme cold or heat.

Most incredible wildlife encounter: Watching sea turtles nest on Playa Grande under a starry sky. Our guide’s red flashlight illuminated the ancient ritual as leatherback turtles dug nests and laid eggs—a humbling experience that connected us to nature’s cycles.

• Weather: Warm with temperatures 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) and minimal rain
• Don’t miss: Monteverde Cloud Forest, Arenal Volcano, and Manuel Antonio National Park
• Where to stay: Nayara Springs for luxury in the Arenal volcano area
• Local experience: Take a night jungle walk to see nocturnal wildlife

Essential item: A waterproof dry bag protected electronics during river trips

Rent a 4×4 vehicle for accessing more remote beaches and parks

Pro Tip

12Dubai, UAE: Glamorous Desert Christmas

For those who want Christmas with a side of luxury shopping and futuristic architecture, Dubai delivers spectacular holiday displays alongside perfect winter weather. The city embraces the season with incredible hotel decorations and events while offering sunshine and warm temperatures.

Most surreal experience: Skiing indoors at Mall of the Emirates in the morning, then watching sunset over the desert dunes during an evening safari. The contrast captured Dubai’s unique ability to blend extremes seamlessly.

• Weather: Perfect with temperatures 68°F to 79°F (20°C to 26°C) and sunny days
• Don’t miss: Burj Khalifa views, desert safaris, and the Dubai Fountain show
• Where to stay: Burj Al Arab for ultimate luxury and iconic status
• Local experience: Take a traditional dhow cruise along Dubai Creek

Book Burj Khalifa “At the Top” tickets well in advance for preferred sunset slots

Pro Tip

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best warm places to visit in December?

A: For guaranteed warmth, I recommend Zanzibar, Maldives, Thailand, Costa Rica, or Dubai. These destinations offer beautiful beach weather and plenty of sunshine while much of the Northern Hemisphere is freezing.

Q: Where can I experience a traditional white Christmas?

A: Lapland, Finnish and Swiss Alps are your best bets for guaranteed snow and magical Christmas atmosphere. New York City and Vienna also typically have cold weather and beautiful decorations.

Q: What are the most affordable December destinations?

A: Thailand, Costa Rica, and Mexico offer excellent value in December. For European options, consider smaller italian cities rather than Rome or Florence.

Q: Are December travel dates more expensive?

A: Generally yes, especially closer to Christmas. Book flights 3-4 months in advance and consider traveling in early December for better deals.

Q: What should I pack for a December beach vacation?

A: Besides swimwear, include sun protection, a light cover-up for evenings, and medications since pharmacies may be limited.

Q: How crowded are popular destinations in December?

A: Very crowded between Christmas and New Year’s. Consider the first two weeks of December for better availability and lower prices.

Q: What are good December destinations for solo travelers?

A: Thailand, Costa Rica, and European christmas destinations like Vienna have good tourist infrastructure and opportunities to meet other travelers.

Q: Where can I experience unique Christmas traditions?

A: Oaxaca for Night of the Radishes, Rome for religious celebrations, and Lapland for Santa experiences offer truly unique traditions.

December travel requires balancing your dream experience with practical considerations. Whether you’re seeking winter wonderlands or tropical escapes, the world offers incredible diversity this month. My best advice? Book early, pack appropriately for your climate, and embrace the local traditions wherever you go.

The magic of December travel isn’t just about escaping winter or embracing it—it’s about finding the perfect experience that matches your personal travel style. From building snowmen under the Northern Lights to snorkeling in turquoise waters, these Best Places to Visit in December have delivered my most memorable year-end adventures.

What type of December experience calls to you? Are you dreaming of snowy landscapes or sunny beaches? I’d love to hear which of these destinations caught your imagination in the comments below!