December Travel Destinations: Our Top Tips for Where to Go

The Best Travel Destinations in December at a Glance

Before we dive in, here’s a quick overview of the best December travel destinations – including recommended trip length, flight duration, and price level.

December Destinations in Germany

Looking for Christmas travel destinations in Germany in December? We’ve got some really great picks for you:

Dresden

• Type of trip: City break, cultural vacation
• Also a great time to visit: May through September
• Climate: 32–39°F, 8–10 rainy days

The Semperoper, the Zwinger, the Elbe Castles, the Residenz – Dresden is already a stunning city. But can you imagine how extra special it all becomes when everything lights up in Christmas splendor? You really have to see it for yourself.

The biggest reason to visit Dresden in December is of course the Striezelmarkt, Dresden’s legendary Christmas market. With around 200 stalls, you can snack your way through Stollen and gingerbread to your heart’s content and maybe even pick up a Christmas gift or two.

Dresden is the perfect December destination to get you well and truly in the Christmas spirit!

Our hotel pick: Townhouse Dresden – modern luxury hotel right in the heart of the Old Town

Erfurt

• Type of trip: City break, cultural vacation
• Also a great time to visit: May through September
• Climate: 30–39°F, 10–12 rainy days

Traveling to Erfurt in December means diving straight into a seriously festive atmosphere.

The Erfurt Christmas market is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, with atmospheric stalls, twinkling lights, and honestly delicious sweets.

Beyond the festively decorated alleyways, you can explore the historic center, visit the cathedral and the Krämerbrücke, and warm up in a cozy café in between. If you want to escape the cold for a bit, Erfurt also has great museums – like the City Museum or the Angermuseum.

Our hotel pick: Hotel Alma Am Anger – modern hotel tucked away in a quiet side street off the Anger

December Destinations in Europe

Looking for great places to visit in Europe in December? Here are the cities and regions that are especially beautiful during the pre-Christmas season.

South Tyrol

• Type of trip: Winter and ski vacation, wellness retreat
• Also a great time to visit: year-round
• Climate: 7–43°F, 4–10 rainy days (depending on the region)

In December, South Tyrol shows off its winter-Christmas side: snow-capped peaks, crisp mountain air, and idyllic valleys that invite you to enjoy a truly varied vacation.

You can ski, go on winter hikes, or simply unwind in your hotel’s spa.

It’s also well worth visiting the Christmas markets in Bolzano or Bressanone – great for picking up souvenirs and sampling regional specialties.

If you’re in the mood for a little culture, we’d suggest a visit to Tirol Castle or the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano.

Our hotel pick: My Arbor – Dolomites – one of the best wellness hotels in South Tyrol, near Bressanone

Strasbourg

• Type of trip: City break
• Also a great time to visit: May through September
• Climate: 34–43°F, 11–13 rainy days

In December, Strasbourg transforms into a true winter wonderland. The old quarter with its half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes radiates a festive atmosphere that instantly puts you in the Christmas spirit.

The standout highlight is of course the famous Christmas markets surrounding the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Strasbourg. You can browse handcrafted goods, sip mulled wine, and soak up the holiday atmosphere to the fullest.

But beyond the Christmas magic, Strasbourg has plenty more going for it – including picturesque canals, fascinating museums, and the charming Petite France neighborhood.

Our hotel pick: Hôtel De L’Ill – small, personal hotel in a quiet yet central location

Vienna

• Type of trip: City break, cultural vacation
• Also a great time to visit: April through October
• Climate: 30–41°F, 8–11 rainy days

Vienna is one of those European city-break destinations that never gets old. Even in winter!

December is a great time to explore some of the museums in Vienna or wander from one cozy coffee house to the next. And a Wiener Schnitzel honestly tastes even better in the cold.

Vienna also has a special charm during the pre-Christmas season. Many of the sights in Vienna are beautifully lit up for the holidays, and there are countless great Christmas markets throughout the city.

In December, snow in Vienna is not uncommon either. Combined with the festive lights, that makes everything just a little bit more magical.

Our hotel pick: Motel One Wien-Staatsoper – stylish design hotel at a fair price

Edinburgh

• Type of trip: City break, cultural vacation
• Also a great time to visit: September and October
• Climate: 34–45°F, 10–11 rainy days

Atmospheric alleyways, festive lights, and cold wind blowing in from the Scottish Highlands – that’s Edinburgh in December.

Inside the illuminated historic buildings you’ll find cozy cafés and great shops perfect for browsing for unique gifts.

Edinburgh also draws you in with plenty of culture: countless excellent museums, Edinburgh Castle, churches, and of course restaurants where you can try classic Scottish dishes like haggis.

And if you want to get out into nature, we recommend a trip to Loch Ness or a day trip to the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Our hotel pick: Motel One Edinburgh-Royal – cozy, centrally located hotel with excellent value for money

December Travel Destinations: Long-Haul Trips in December

Dreaming of sun, sand, and exotic adventures in December? Here are our top long-haul picks for your winter escape:

Dubai

• Type of trip: City break, beach vacation
• Also a great time to visit: January through April
• Climate: 63–79°F, 1 rainy day

Dubai in December is perfect for combining a city break with a beach vacation.

While the city impresses with its skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and modern attractions, you can also relax on the beaches of Jumeirah and soak up the sun.

Beyond shopping and sightseeing, a desert excursion is absolutely worth it, and in the evenings you can explore Dubai’s lively nightlife.

Our hotel pick: Jumeirah Mina Al Salam Dubai – luxurious hotel with views of the Burj Al Arab and a private beach

Bangkok

• Type of trip: Cultural and city trip
• Also a great time to visit: November and January through April
• Climate: 72–90°F, 0–5 rainy days

Bangkok is a seriously fantastic pick in December: the Thai metropolis shows its best side in warm, tropical temperatures.

While it’s cold and gray back home, you can stroll through colorful markets in summer clothes, sample street food, and experience the incredible blend of tradition and modernity.

A visit to the Grand Palace and Wat Pho temple is non-negotiable. But beyond the major points of interest in Bangkok, there’s a ton more to discover – from boat tours to cool rooftop bars.

Our hotel pick: Maitria Mode – modern hotel with an outdoor pool in the Sukhumvit neighborhood

Costa Rica

• Type of trip: Road trip, nature vacation, beach vacation
• Also a great time to visit: November through April
• Climate: 66–86°F, 0–19 rainy days (depending on the region)

Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers in December. Instead of gray winter weather, you’ll find rainforests, stunning beaches, and plenty of exotic wildlife.

Sloths, toucans, howler monkeys – the chances of spotting them on a hike through Costa Rica’s national parks are really good.

The beaches in Costa Rica are also perfect in December. On the Pacific coast you can surf or relax, while the Caribbean coast is a bit more laid-back and off the beaten path.

If you like to stay active, grab a kayak, go rafting, or hike up one of the volcanoes, like Arenal. Trust us: it’s going to be an adventure!
Our hotel pick: La Bonita Lodge – beautiful lodges surrounded by jungle, right on the ocean

Laos

• Type of trip: Road trip, cultural trip, nature vacation
• Also a great time to visit: October through November and January through February
• Climate: 64–86°F, 0–4 rainy days

Everyone heads to Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia – but we think Laos is a vastly underrated destination that’s genuinely something different.

We especially recommend the ancient colonial city of Luang Prabang in northern Laos. There are numerous markets with typical Lao snacks, and you can visit stunning temples.

Laos is also great for hiking – in the Bolaven Plateau, for example, several trails lead to beautiful waterfalls. And if you’re up for a real adventure, take a multi-day boat trip along the Mekong – pure peace and quiet with no tourist crowds guaranteed!

December falls during Laos’ peak travel season, so expect more visitors than usual. But there’s a good reason for that – it’s the dry season, which is naturally the best time for sightseeing and hiking.

Our hotel pick: Confetti Garden Hotel – elegant hotel with an outdoor pool in Vang Vieng

West Malaysia

• Type of trip: Road trip, cultural trip, nature vacation
• Also a great time to visit: January through March and June through August
• Climate: 72–90°F, 5–10 rainy days

Malaysia is a great destination for experiencing the more traditional side of Southeast Asia rather than the typical backpacker trail. We especially loved the small city of Melaka. A stop in the capital Kuala Lumpur is of course a must on any itinerary.

If you’re more drawn to nature, you’ll be blown away by the mist-shrouded tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands. Or take a boat tour through the mystical mangrove forests.

December is one of the driest months in western Malaysia – and it’s definitely warm enough for a beach vacation, for example on Langkawi or Penang.

Our hotel pick: Casa del Rio Melaka – charming hotel in Melaka right on the riverbank

Patagonia

• Type of trip: Road trip, nature and active vacation
• Also a great time to visit: January and March
• Climate: 43–59°F, 5–6 rainy days

In December, summer begins in Patagonia – perfect if you’re craving spectacular nature in the sunshine.

Massive glaciers, rugged mountains, and endless open spaces make the region a dream destination for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.

Particularly impressive are hikes in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile or a visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina. Just be prepared for rapidly changing weather: sun, rain, and strong winds can all show up within a few hours.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, stroll through small towns like El Calafate or Puerto Natales and enjoy the sunshine and the local food.

Our hotel pick: Hotel Lago Grey – stunning hotel with direct views of Lago Grey

New Zealand

• Type of trip: Road trip, nature and active vacation
• Also a great time to visit: October through November and January through April
• Climate: 46–70°F, 7–12 rainy days (depending on the island)

New Zealand is a fantastic long-haul destination in December for nature lovers: from volcanoes like Tongariro to fjords (e.g., Milford Sound) to beautiful beaches near Dunedin – it’s truly got it all.

Don’t miss New Zealand’s unique natural wonders – like the thousands of glowworms in the Waitomo Caves or a kayak tour over bioluminescent algae.

And if you’re feeling especially adventurous, you can even explore New Zealand by campervan.

The seasons in New Zealand are the exact opposite of ours. In December, it’s midsummer there – perfect if you want to swap the winter cold for some proper sunshine. The temperatures are ideal especially for water sports like canoeing or surfing.

Our hotel pick: Catlins Eco Accommodation: cozy, fully equipped chalets in Owaka

Frequently Asked Questions About a December Vacation