December offers travelers a world of possibilities, from tropical beaches to festive Christmas markets and snowy alpine adventures. Whether you’re seeking the best places to go in December for warm weather, magical holiday celebrations, or unique cultural experiences, the right destination awaits. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best countries to visit in December travel across Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond.
Why December Is Ideal for International Travel
December marks the start of dry season in many tropical destinations while offering festive celebrations in Europe and North America. Southern Hemisphere countries enter summer, providing beach weather when the north freezes. December vacation ideas span every climate and experience, from ski resorts to sunny shores, bustling cities to remote islands.
Best European Countries to Visit in December
Germany
Germany’s Christmas markets are legendary, with Nuremberg, Munich, and Cologne hosting some of the world’s most authentic festive celebrations. Medieval town squares transform into winter wonderlands with wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, mulled wine, and traditional treats. Average temperatures hover around 2°C (36°F), perfect for cozy market browsing followed by warm beer halls.
Switzerland
Alpine perfection defines Switzerland in December, with world-class skiing in Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier. Christmas markets in Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne add festive charm to stunning mountain backdrops. While expensive, Switzerland delivers unmatched winter scenery and holiday atmosphere for those seeking traditional winter experiences.
Austria
Vienna’s imperial elegance shines during December, with Christmas markets at historic squares and cozy coffee houses serving Sachertorte. Salzburg combines Mozart heritage with Alpine beauty, while Innsbruck offers urban culture and mountain sports. Austria ranks among the best countries to visit in December for christmas with its authentic traditions and stunning settings.
Portugal
For milder European weather, Portugal offers comfortable December temperatures averaging 15°C (59°F). Explore Lisbon’s hills, Porto’s riverside, or the Algarve’s beaches without summer crowds. Portuguese Christmas traditions, affordable prices, and sunny days make it ideal for those wanting European culture without bitter cold.
Spain
Spain’s diverse regions offer varied December experiences. Barcelona enjoys 15°C weather perfect for Gaudí sightseeing, while the Canary Islands provide 21°C beach weather. Seville and Madrid embrace Christmas with elaborate decorations and festive markets. Spain combines culture, cuisine, and comfortable weather year-round.
Best Asian Countries to Visit in December
Thailand
Thailand enjoys dry season conditions in December with mild temperatures around 27°C (81°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Bangkok’s temples, Chiang Mai’s mountains, and southern beaches like Phuket and Krabi offer diverse experiences. Thailand combines affordability, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, making it one of the best asian countries to visit in December.
Vietnam
Vietnam temperature in December ranges from 18°C to 26°C across different regions, offering nice weather and stunning landscapes. Hanoi and northern regions are cooler and perfect for exploring, while central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang) and southern beaches (Phu Quoc) provide warmer conditions. Vietnamese cuisine, rich history, and budget-friendly prices attract December travelers.
Japan
Japan offers unique December experiences from Tokyo’s festive illuminations to Hokkaido’s powder snow. December is ideal for skiing in Niseko, exploring Kyoto’s temples without crowds, or soaking in onsen hot springs. While Christmas isn’t traditional, Japan’s illuminations and New Year preparations create magical atmospheres.
Sri Lanka
December marks peak season for Sri Lanka’s west and south coasts, with warm temperatures around 28°C (82°F) and minimal rain. Explore ancient temples, wildlife safaris, tea plantations, and pristine beaches. Sri Lanka offers incredible diversity in a compact island at reasonable prices.
Maldives
For ultimate tropical luxury, the Maldives delivers year-round warmth around 28°C, with December falling in dry season. Overwater bungalows, world-class diving, and pristine beaches create dream vacations. While expensive, the Maldives ranks among warm places in December for special occasions.
Best South American Countries to Visit in December
Argentina
December brings summer to Argentina, with Buenos Aires enjoying 26°C weather perfect for exploring tango clubs, steak houses, and European-influenced architecture. Patagonia offers mild conditions for hiking Torres del Paine and seeing glaciers. Argentina combines cosmopolitan culture with natural wonders.
Brazil
Summer begins in Brazil, making December ideal for Rio de Janeiro’s beaches, Copacabana celebrations, and Cristo Redentor views. The Amazon offers accessible adventures, while Salvador showcases Afro-Brazilian culture. Brazil’s festive spirit peaks during December, leading to famous New Year’s celebrations.
Chile
Chile’s length provides varied December experiences. Santiago enjoys 28°C summer weather, the Atacama Desert offers clear stargazing skies, and Lake District regions provide outdoor adventures. Chilean Patagonia becomes accessible for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Peru
Peru’s dry season makes December perfect for Machu Picchu visits without rain delays. Lima’s coastal summer begins, while Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer comfortable hiking weather. Peru combines ancient history with diverse landscapes and excellent cuisine at budget-friendly prices.
Best Countries to Visit in December for Warm Weather
Australia
December brings summer Down Under, with Sydney’s beaches, Great Barrier Reef snorkeling, and Melbourne’s culture all thriving in 25-30°C weather. Christmas on the beach provides unique Southern Hemisphere experiences. While expensive, Australia offers unmatched coastal beauty and outdoor adventures.
Mexico
Mexico’s Pacific coast, Caribbean beaches, and colonial cities enjoy pleasant December weather averaging 26°C. Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum offer all-inclusive resorts, while Mexico City provides cultural immersion. Mexican Christmas traditions, incredible food, and affordable prices create ideal December vacation ideas.
Morocco
Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from Marrakech’s souks to the Sahara dunes to Atlantic beaches, enjoy comfortable December weather around 20°C. Experience vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and delicious tagines. Morocco offers exotic culture at reasonable prices, making it among the best places to vacation in December.
Egypt
December brings perfect weather to Egypt, with 22°C temperatures ideal for exploring pyramids, cruising the Nile, and diving the Red Sea. Avoid summer’s scorching heat while experiencing ancient wonders. Egypt combines historical significance with beach resorts at budget-friendly rates.
South Africa
December offers good weather, gorgeous landscapes, and curious wildlife in South Africa, perfect for safari adventures in Kruger National Park. Cape Town enjoys summer weather around 26°C, wine country flourishes, and beaches beckon. South Africa delivers diverse experiences from wildlife to wineries.
Best Countries to Visit in December for Sun
UAE (Dubai/Abu Dhabi)
December provides ideal UAE weather around 24°C, warm but not scorching. Dubai’s luxury shopping, desert safaris, and futuristic architecture contrast with Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites. World-class hotels, excellent dining, and guaranteed sunshine attract winter sun seekers.
Bahamas
December marks high season in the Bahamas, with 26°C temperatures perfect for beach lounging, snorkeling, and island hopping. Nassau’s culture combines with Out Islands’ tranquility. The Bahamas offers Caribbean beauty with easy US access.
Tanzania
Tanzania’s northern circuit enjoys dry conditions perfect for wildlife safaris in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Zanzibar’s beaches provide post-safari relaxation with 28°C temperatures. December safaris offer excellent wildlife viewing before migration season.
Budget-Friendly December Destinations
Indonesia (Bali)
Bali averages 31ºC in December, offering hot tropical weather with beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and lush rice terraces at affordable prices. Ubud’s culture, Seminyak’s beaches, and local hospitality create memorable experiences. Indonesia provides incredible value for tropical vacations.
Cambodia
December brings perfect weather to Angkor Wat, with temperatures around 27°C and minimal rain. Cambodia offers ancient temples, vibrant Phnom Penh, and emerging beach destinations at budget prices. Warm hospitality and rich history make Cambodia excellent value.
Nicaragua
Central America’s hidden gem offers Pacific beaches, colonial Granada, volcano hiking, and surf towns at incredibly low prices. December’s dry season brings 28°C weather perfect for outdoor adventures without crowds.
Where to Go for Christmas Celebrations
Countries offering unique Christmas experiences include the Philippines for tropical festivities, Iceland for Northern Lights and winter magic, Finland for Santa’s village in Lapland, and Colombia for vibrant traditions. Each destination brings cultural perspective to holiday celebrations.
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Planning Your December International Trip
Consider peak travel dates: December 20-26 sees highest demand and prices globally. Early December or post-Christmas offers better value.
Check visa requirements: Allow processing time for countries requiring advance visas. Many destinations offer visa-on-arrival for tourism.
Book accommodations early: Popular December destinations fill quickly, especially Christmas market cities and tropical beaches.
Pack for varied climates: Multi-destination trips may require both winter gear and beach clothing.
Research local celebrations: December brings unique cultural events from Christmas markets to summer festivals depending on hemisphere.
Making the Most of December Travel
The best places to go in December span every continent and climate. Consider mixing destinations, perhaps European Christmas markets followed by tropical beaches, or combining cultural cities with natural wonders. December’s varied weather patterns mean somewhere always offers ideal conditions.
For warm places in December, focus on Southeast Asia, Caribbean, Australia, or South America’s summer destinations. For festive Christmas experiences, European countries deliver authentic markets and traditions. Budget travelers find excellent value in Vietnam, Cambodia, Nicaragua, and Morocco.
December rewards flexible travelers willing to explore diverse destinations. Whether seeking winter sun, holiday magic, or cultural immersion, the world offers countless opportunities for memorable December vacation ideas. From tropical destinations averaging 31ºC like The Gambia, Goa, and Phuket to snowy Alpine villages, December presents unmatched travel diversity.