December is considered an incredible opportunity for adventure and travel before the end of the year, as it is the month when the world adorns itself with festive and magical winter atmospheres, accompanied by special preparations for the arrival of the new Gregorian year. And if you are a fan of cold winter vibes or prefer to escape to warm and sunny destinations, traveling in December will open the doors to distinctive and wonderful places to visit in December.
Advantages of traveling in December
Festive atmospheres around the world: December brings with it the spirit of global holidays such as Christmas and New Year. You will find major cities adorned with lights and decorations, along with traditional Christmas markets offering local food and gifts, making it one of the best holiday vibes for December holiday destinations.
End-of-year events: In December, celebrations reach their peak. Many cities hold festivals, concerts, and special shows in preparation for the new year, making them among the best places to travel in December.
Variety of climates: This month is characterized by a unique climate diversity; you can enjoy snow and winter in Europe or America, while at the same time escape to warmth in sunny tropical destinations.
Travel deals and abundant options: Early December is usually less crowded than the holiday period, which may mean good deals on flight tickets and hotels in some destinations. Also, many tourist destinations are less crowded with tourists at the beginning of the month, giving you more time and space to enjoy their attractions more comfortably.
The best places to travel in December around the world
After learning about the advantages of tourism in December, let us now take you on a tour of the best places to visit in December.
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Switzerland: For snow lovers and adventurers
Switzerland turns into a true winter paradise in December, with stunning mountain scenery and charming villages. It is one of the best countries to visit in December for winter sports lovers, as you can ski on the white slopes at world-class resorts such as Zermatt and Interlaken. Holiday vibes are strongly present in Swiss cities; imagine yourself strolling through Christmas markets in Lucerne and enjoying the aroma of roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate. And do not forget to experience a panoramic train ride among the snowy mountains to witness views you will never forget in your lifetime.
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Finland: To spend a magical winter with the family
If you are traveling with your family or looking for a unique winter experience, head north to Lapland in Finland. There, you can visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi where children can meet the real Santa Claus! The temperatures are extremely cold but the scenery is magical with the possibility of seeing the dancing Northern Lights in the sky. Finland also offers fun activities such as husky and reindeer sled rides, and staying in a glass cabin to watch the stars and snow around you. You will truly discover that traveling in December is like a fairytale because of its beauty, making Finland one of the best places to visit in December.
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Japan: A blend of winter and culture
December in Japan offers you a special side of this country rich in traditions. In cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, you will find a mix of winter lights and modern shows alongside traditional celebrations to welcome the new year. The weather is cool and refreshing (about 5 to 12 degrees Celsius), which makes it suitable for exploring temples and historical districts without the summer crowds. You can attend winter illumination festivals in Tokyo or Osaka where parks are decorated with millions of dazzling lights. For snow lovers, you can head to Hokkaido in the far north where famous ski resorts and true winter vibes await.
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Turkey: Enchanting winter and diverse tourism
Turkey is an ideal December holiday destination thanks to its relatively moderate cold and its diverse experiences. In Istanbul, you can wander through old markets and streets decorated with lights, and enjoy a hot cup of Turkish tea after a day of exploration. The city blends the charm of Europe and Asia, with events and celebrations held in Taksim Square and other areas in preparation for the new year. If you are a snow fan, you can ski at Uludağ Resort near Bursa where fun winter activities are available. On the other hand, you can relax in a warm Turkish bath after a cold day for a cultural and refreshing experience.
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Thailand: Warm beaches and lively celebrations
For those looking for a warm destination in December in Asia, Thailand is the perfect choice. Temperatures in Bangkok and southern Thailand range between 21°-30° Celsius, meaning pleasant summer-like weather while it is winter elsewhere. In Phuket and Phi Phi Islands, you can enjoy tropical beaches with white sand and clear waters, and practice diving as marine visibility is excellent at this time. Along with nature, Thailand lives in a festive atmosphere in December; cities are decorated with New Year’s lights, and fireworks shows are held on New Year’s Eve, especially in Bangkok where thousands gather at Central World Square for the countdown and to welcome the new year amid dazzling fireworks. Thailand is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel in December.
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Dubai, UAE: Warm winter and luxurious celebrations
Dubai is one of the best December holiday destinations for those seeking mild to warm weather (about 21-27° Celsius during the day) with an intensive dose of events. In December, Dubai is packed with festivals, exhibitions, and winter markets, transforming the city into a festive oasis. Almost every day there is a special event or celebration. You can enjoy shopping in massive malls decorated with festive ornaments, attend live shows in Global Village, or even go on a desert safari tour in perfect weather. And when New Year’s Eve comes, Dubai hosts one of the world’s largest fireworks shows at Burj Khalifa, along with laser and fountain shows and international music concerts.
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The Maldives: A tropical paradise for relaxation seekers
If you love the sea and summer even in December, no option rivals the beauty of the Maldives. This archipelago in the Indian Ocean enjoys relatively hot weather in December (about 27° Celsius) and is an ideal season to visit. You can spend your days in an overwater bungalow, waking up to the sight of crystal-clear turquoise waters beneath you. Diving among coral reefs is a must-do activity, as marine life is at its most vibrant during winter. The Maldives is a romantic choice par excellence for couples (perfect for a honeymoon for example), and also suitable for families wanting a quiet beach experience away from the city hustle. Just remember that this season is peak tourism there, so early booking is advised to find reasonable prices.
How to prepare for travel in December?
After choosing your favorite destination, it is important to know how to prepare for tourism in December to ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free trip. Here are some golden tips for preparation:
- Book early and take advantage of installment offers: Due to the popularity of travel during the holiday season, it is recommended to book flight tickets and hotels as early as possible. And if you are worried about the budget, you can take advantage of the feature of booking trips in installments through almatar, a service that allows you to book flight tickets and hotel rooms now and pay later in installments via the Tabby platform, without interest. This way, you will guarantee early bookings before prices rise, and spread the cost over several comfortable payments.
- Choose your favorite seat in advance: For a more comfortable travel experience, save yourself the hassle of waiting at baggage check-in or worrying about crowded seating. With the almatar app, you can simply choose your seat on the plane when booking through the paid seat selection service. This feature guarantees that you sit next to your companions or get the seat you prefer.
- Prepare your clothes and essentials according to the destination: December is a month with extreme climate differences from one country to another. Check the weather in your destination specifically. If you are visiting a cold or snowy country, make sure to bring heavy winter clothes and comfortable waterproof boots. If your destination is tropical, pack light summer clothes with a sun hat and sunscreen, and do not forget swimwear.
- Plan holiday events in advance: Many special December events (such as New Year’s parties or seasonal festivals) require early booking or ticket purchase. Check if there is a party or show you would like to attend at your destination and book it early online.
- Check health requirements and restrictions: With weather fluctuations and seasonal changes, make sure to take health precautions. Bring necessary medications especially for colds or allergies. If traveling to tropical destinations, make sure to take vaccinations if required and use insect repellent. And do not forget comprehensive medical and travel insurance to cover any health emergency or cases such as luggage loss.
Finally
Do not forget that once your December trip ends, there are always new adventures waiting for you. If you are planning to start the year with another trip, you can also check the best places to visit in January for a new year filled with adventures and discoveries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best countries to visit in December?
Choices vary depending on your interests, but countries like Switzerland and Finland for winter lovers, and the UAE (Dubai) and Thailand for warmth seekers, are among the best countries to visit in December.
Where can I spend a warm holiday in December away from the cold?
You have many warm options in December such as Dubai and Southeast Asia (Thailand and Malaysia), as well as the Maldives and destinations in the Caribbean where the weather is hot and perfect for beaches.
What are the best destinations for winter sports lovers in December?
Switzerland in Europe is one of the top destinations thanks to its world-class ski resorts, while Canada (for example Banff Resort) and Japan (Hokkaido) are also great options for skiing on snow or ice in December.
Is traveling in December more expensive than other months?
Prices are higher during Christmas and New Year’s due to increased demand, but early December travel is usually less expensive than late December. Planning ahead and early booking help in getting reasonable prices.
How can I prepare well for a December trip?
Start by booking flights and hotels early, prepare your clothes according to the expected weather (winter or summer), and do not forget to check your destination’s holiday events to book them in advance.