December is a magical time to travel the globe, marked by festive merriment and holiday celebrations. Wintery Europe and North America see cooler temperatures and a sprinkling of snow in places, while Africa and South America see summery, sun-soaked days. Asia and Oceania enjoy a mesh of contrasting weather at this time. With so many options to choose from, Travelstart is here to help you pin down your dream December destination!
Popular High Season Destinations in December
England, United Kingdom
December transforms England into a festive winter escape filled with Christmas lights, seasonal shopping and cosy city experiences. See the decorated streets of London, explore the music and football culture of Liverpool, or enjoy a lively winter city break in Manchester.
France
France feels especially magical in December, combining iconic sightseeing with festive markets, beautiful winter lights and plenty of opportunities to enjoy French food and culture. Explore Paris, then consider adding Strasbourg or Colmar for some of Europe’s most atmospheric Christmas markets.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in December
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in December
Czech Republic
December is a magical time to visit Czechia, with historic towns glowing under festive lights and Christmas markets filling the main squares. Explore the cobbled streets of Prague, visit the fairytale town of Český Krumlov, or unwind in the elegant spa town of Karlovy Vary.
Poland
December brings a festive atmosphere to Poland, with historic squares illuminated for Christmas, traditional markets and the possibility of snow. Explore the medieval streets and Christmas market of Krakow, discover the beautifully restored Old Town of Warsaw, or venture into the mountains for a taste of Poland’s winter scenery..
Hungary
Hungary is a wonderful December city-break destination, with Budapest glowing with festive lights along the Danube. Spend your days exploring grand architecture and Christmas markets before escaping the cold in one of the city’s famous thermal baths.
Events in December
Events in December
Germany
Germany – Christkindlesmarkt
Dating back to the 17th century, the enchanting Christkindlesmarkt is an age-old, authentic Christmas market experience in the Hauptmarkt, or central square, of Nuremberg. If the smell of gingerbread and slowly roasting Bratwurst doesn’t lure you in straight away, maybe it’s the mulled wine, Christmas decorations and handmade toys that draw you in.
-2 to 4°C daytime temperatures
29 November – 24 December
Nuremberg
France
France – Lyon Festival of Lights
The Fête des Lumières lights up the city of Lyon with spectacular temporary installations that showcase the city’s architecture, which forms the backdrop for an illuminating journey of magic, dreams and history. Held annually, the festival is a spectacular display of both contemporary light-creations, traditional culture and candle-lined window sills. Pair the experience with great local food and excellent Lyon wine.
2 – 7°C daytime temperatures
5 – 8 December
Lyon
Scotland
Scotland – Hogmanay
The namesake festival of Scottish New Year’s Eve, Hogmanay draws inspiration from viking origins and celebration of the winter solstice. Accompanied by fireworks, singing and plenty of whisky, the festival reaches fever pitch at a street party of almost 400,000 revellers on 31 December. Loony Dook, the following day, offers weary party-goers a refreshing, charitable swim in the icy waters of South Queensferry’s Firth of Forth estuary.
1 – 7°C daytime temperatures
30 December – 2 January
Edinburgh
Popular Destinations with Perfect Winter Vibe
FINLAND
December in Finland is a magical winter escape, with snow-covered landscapes, festive towns and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Head to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland to visit Santa Claus Village, enjoy husky sledding or try snowmobiling through the Arctic wilderness. Explore the winter charm of Helsinki, or stay in a glass igloo in Levi or Saariselkä for an unforgettable view of the night sky. Average temperatures range from around -5°C to 2°C, with colder conditions in Lapland.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in September to get great discounts on your December trip! Not ready to travel in December? Book your trip in December and travel in March to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in December
Mauritius
December is made for an island escape in Mauritius, with warm tropical days, turquoise lagoons and plenty to explore beyond the beach. Relax around Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches, discover the markets and waterfront of Port Louis, or head south for waterfalls, mountains and the colourful landscapes around Chamarel.
Seychelles
Seychelles is a spectacular December choice for travellers dreaming of white beaches, granite boulders and warm tropical seas. Explore Mahé, slow down on Praslin, or cycle around car-light La Digue, hopping between some of the archipelago’s most beautiful beaches along the way. December is warm and tropical, although brief showers are common.
Tanzania
Tanzania gives you two holidays in one during December: legendary wildlife experiences on the mainland and a tropical escape on Zanzibar. Explore the beaches and historic Stone Town of Zanzibar, experience the energy of Dar es Salaam, or head inland for safari adventures around the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in December
Mozambique
December is perfect for a tropical escape to Mozambique, where warm Indian Ocean waters, fresh seafood and laid-back beach towns set the scene for a summer holiday. Explore the colourful streets of Maputo, dive and snorkel around Inhambane, or head to Vilanculos for island adventures in the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Kenya
December offers the best of both worlds in Kenya, combining unforgettable wildlife encounters with warm days along the Indian Ocean. Start with the sights, restaurants and wildlife attractions of Nairobi, head out on safari, then slow things down around Mombasa and the beaches of the Kenyan coast.
Namibia
December is an exciting time for a Namibian road trip, with vast desert landscapes, adventure-filled coastal towns and spectacular scenery around every turn. Begin in Windhoek, discover the Atlantic coast around Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, or venture south to the towering dunes of Sossusvlei.
Events in December
Morocco
Morocco – International Film Festival of Marrakech
Morocco’s Red City annually hosts the prestigious FIFM, or Festival International du Film de Marrakech. Famous actors, film directors and producers from around the globe gather to attend screenings of Moroccan and foreign films. Add to that parties, public screenings and an all-round lively Marrakech.
7-20°C daytime temperatures
29 November – 7 December
Marrakech
Northern Senegal
Northern Senegal – Les Fanals de St. Louis
With origins in the 18th century, Les Fanals de St. Louis, or Fanal, is a customary parade that continues the annual night-time procession of elaborate floats and lanterns through the city, ending in the square. Accompanied by fireworks, dancing, drumming and joyful revellers dressed in traditional costume, Fanal rivals even the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro!
18-32°C daytime temperatures
Last week of December
Saint-Louis
Cape Town
Cape Town – South Africa – MCQP
A glittering highlight on every Capetonian’s calendar, MCQP (or Mother City Queer Project) is a glamorous gathering held annually in some of Cape Town’s top locations. Eagerly-awaited themes for each event are met with an array of costumes and camaraderie, all to the beats of a local and international music line-up.
17-27°C daytime temperatures
Mid-December
Cape Town
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Egypt
Head for Egypt’s beaches and escape the burgeoning crowds around the pyramids at this time. Hurghada, Marsa Alam, and Sharm El-Sheikh are excellent choices along the Red Sea in December, as the seaside stops are dotted with resorts that share access to the creamy coloured sands, turquoise waters and top-notch facilities. Enjoy warm ocean swims in the 25°C water and soak up the winter sun, which reaches average highs of between 23-25°C.
Seychelles
The tropical paradise that is Seychelles, is the perfect December destination for a white-sand coastline lined by seemingly hand-painted water. Soak up the tropical sun rays between brief seasonal showers and prevailing humidity. Go island-hopping around the archipelago and enjoy the pristine beaches of Anse Source D’Argent, Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, and Grand Anse to name just a few! Enjoy summery temperatures of 27-30°C.
Comoros
The volcanic archipelago of Comoros is largely untouched, with postcard-perfect beaches lapped by a turquoise ocean. Visit Chomoni beach on Grande Comore, with its black lava rocks and powdery white sand, or venture to some of the island’s most picturesque beaches of Mitsamiouli and Ndroudé. Stroll the petite beach at Trou du Prophète, accompanied by a lone backpackers lodge, or hop over to the black sands of Beach Papani on Anjouan Island (Ndzouani). Enjoy an average of 27°C, with highs of up to 32°C!
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in September to get great discounts on your December trip! Not ready to travel in December? Book your trip in December and travel in March to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in December
Australia
Summer in Australia is inviting to say the least. From Ayers Rock (Uluru) at the sweltering Red Centre of Alice Springs to a seaside escape on the white-sand beaches of Jervis Bay, the varied landscapes each offer something special and significant.
Maldives
December is a fantastic time to visit the Maldives, with warm tropical weather, turquoise lagoons and powdery white beaches creating the perfect island escape. Fly into Malé, the main gateway to the islands, before continuing to your resort. Spend your days snorkelling in crystal-clear water, relaxing on secluded beaches or exploring the colourful marine life.
Sri Lanka
Head for the hills, or the south and west coasts during December for the best weather in Sri Lanka at this time. Visit tea plantations in Kandy, in the country formerly known as Ceylon, or surf off the southwest coast.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in December
Malaysia
Recognisable by the polished Petronas Twin Towers in its capital of Kuala Lumpur, to the street art of George Town in Penang, Malaysia is a multi-layered country. December on the west coast sees warm, dry weather, in contrast to the cooler east coast.
Nepal
Escape the crowds for clear skies and snow-capped mountains, at the start of winter in Nepal. An excellent time of year for hiking at low elevations, and enjoying crisp mountain views from the Kathmandu Valley or Poon Hill treks and more.
South Korea
Get your snow fix in wintery South Korea over December. Hit the ice-skating rink in Seoul, warm up in a traditional teahouse, or soak off the winter chill at a jjimjilbang public bath.
Events in December
New Zealand
New Zealand – South Island Wine & Food Festival
Pair great food with world-renowned local wines and live music, all under the summer sun in picturesque Christchurch. Applauded for spectacular local Sauvignon-blanc, the festival is accompanied by celebrity chefs, cooking masterclasses, seminars and an all-around good vibe.
11-21°C daytime temperatures
First week of December
Christchurch
Bali
Bali – Pemuteran Bay Festival
The coastal village of Pemuteran Bay in Buleleng, Bali, plays host annually to this lively celebration of conservation efforts in the region. Apart from championing the top dive locale, this art and cultural event is packed with all things marine-themed, from parades and performing arts to music, culinary delights, traditional fishing competitions and more.
20-28°C daytime temperatures
Mid-December
Buleleng
India
India – Kumbhalgarh Festival
Set high in the Aravalli Hills at the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kumbhalgarh Fort, the festival brims with celebratory, cultural activities. From traditional music, dance and tug of war to arts, crafts, exhibitions and puppetry for the little ones, the festival culminates in a wash of lights as night falls.
10-27°C daytime temperatures
First week in January
Rajasthan
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Maldives
High season in the Maldives is marked by sunnier skies, rising temperatures and the start of the dry season. While the northern atolls are drier at this time, the southern atolls see a little rainfall. Laze beside glassy, teal-coloured waters at Maafushi and Hulhumale Beaches on Kaafu Atoll. Visit Bikini Beach on Rasdhoo Island or enjoy the bioluminescent nighttime display in the waters of the Raa Atoll, at Vaadhoo Island. Temperatures vary between the atolls, but have an overall average of 27°C.
The Philippines
Dry season in the Philippines means lower levels of humidity and pleasant temperatures. Pick your spot on the silky white sands of any one of the El Nido beaches in Palawan, namely Las Cabanas Beach, Seven Commandos Beach or Nacpan Beach. Enjoy spectacular snorkelling off the beaches of Apo Reef Natural Park or visit the famed White and Bulabog Beaches of Boracay. Average temperatures across the archipelago range from 24-31°C.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in September to get great discounts on your December trip! Not ready to travel in December? Book your trip in December and travel in March to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in December
Cuba
The dry December season in Cuba makes for perfect, warm ocean swims on Varadero beach or mingling with pink flamingos on Cayo Coco and Cayo Santa Maria islands. Also, walk in the footsteps of Cuban mafia and movie stars at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba.
Mexico
Mexico comes alive in winter, thanks to pleasant weather and a plethora of festivals and events. Bask on the beach at Tulum or Cancun, eat tacos at every streetside food truck you can find, and partake in the vibrant nightlife of Guadalajara.
Panama
The year-round warm weather of Panama makes it popular with beach seekers, adventure junkies and historians alike. December is the dry season, and a perfect time to discover the deserted islands, soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere, or get outdoors.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in December
Curaçao
Dutch and Spanish heritage is prevalent in colourful, Caribbean Curaçao, particularly in historical Willemstad. With multiple beaches to choose from, make sure to stop at exquisite Grote Knip or explore the street art and museums across the island.
USA
The United States is awash with winter, although weather varies across the vast country. Chase the Northern Lights in Alaska, ski in the powdery white Rocky Mountains, or escape the snow and take in masterpieces in Miami at the Art Basel Fair.
Events in December
USA
USA – Times Square Ball Drop
Arguably the most iconic way to ring in the new year in North America, lose yourself in a sea of almost one million revellers at the Times Square Ball Drop. Synonymous with ushering in the new year, Times Square is alive with energy, neon lights, music and a melting pot of partygoers eagerly awaiting midnight.
0-7°C daytime temperatures
31 December
New York City
Costa Rica
Costa Rica – Zapote Festival
Calling all Ticos and Ticas! Held annually in the small town of Zapote, the Las Fiestas de Zapote is an extravaganza featuring a bull-riding rodeo, ferris wheel, fairground rides, live music, dancing and plenty of churros to go around.
19-24°C daytime temperatures
25 December – 6 January
Zapote
Nicaragua
Nicaragua – La Purisima
This religious festival honouring the Virgin Mary is celebrated across Nicaragua with an explosion of fireworks, singing and shouting throughout the streets, churches and cathedrals. Join the lively procession in visiting the various altars and you may be gifted with fruits and candies in reward.
24-30°C daytime temperatures
7 December
Across Nicaragua
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Cayman Islands
Each of the three Cayman Islands offers a different drawcard for sunseekers. The coral garden of Little Cayman and the sunken Soviet ship at Cayman Brac are ideal for scuba diving, while Grand Cayman is the perfect place to enjoy beach breaks. The remote, picturesque Rum Point is also home to the mudslide cocktail, while Seven Mile Beach sprawls luxuriously along the western side of the island and considered the best beach overall. Bask under the Caribbean sun with an average temperature of 26°C.
St Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis are well-known for the natural landscapes and beautiful beaches that adorn the island duo. Famed beach locales in the larger island of Saint Kitts include the lively ocean inlet and beach of Frigate Bay, the sandy beach cove of Cockleshell Bay and the reef lined Turtle Beach. Palm-studded Pinney’s Beach is the most popular on Nevis, as are Oualie Beach and the secluded Lovers Beach. Savour the sunshine during the dry season, with a daytime average temperature of 25°C.
Bahamas
Soak up the tropical climate of the Bahamas during the dry season of December, where plenty of sunshine and tepid ocean swims can be enjoyed across the coral archipelago. Despite its name, Cabbage Beach on Nassau is home to luxurious resorts and oceans of aquamarine. On Harbour Island, Pink Sand Beach draws plenty of visitors in with its pastel shores, while the secluded sandbar that is Gold Rock Beach reveals itself at low tide. Enjoy balmy average highs of 26°C.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in September to get great discounts on your December trip! Not ready to travel in December? Book your trip in December and travel in March to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in December
Argentina
The start of summer in Argentina brings with it hot weather and outdoor adventures. Patagonia is the hero at this time – go trekking in Los Glaciares National Park, whale watching in the Valdes Peninsula and visit the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Chile
Summer in Chile is the perfect time to visit Easter Island with its stone statues, Moai, found both on land or by diving in the adjacent sea. Trek Chilean Patagonia, home to Torres del Paine National Park, with towering granite peaks, glaciers and lakes.
Colombia
With close proximity to the equator, Columbia’s weather is great year-round, particularly the dry, hot December period. Laze leisurely on Playa Blanca beach, take a trip to a coffee plantation in Bogotá, or stroll the streets of Cartagena’s old city.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in December
Peru
Don’t be deterred by the interior rains in December, there are many parts of Peru worth visiting. Northern Peru offers warm waters for beach breaks and surfing, ancient archaeological sites to explore and historical sightseeing in the capital, Lima.
Ecuador
The rainy season of Ecuador is also one of the best times to go diving and snorkelling in the Galápagos Islands, for warm land and sea temperatures and only short bursts of rain. Make a stop at Salinas, along the hot, humid coast or surf in Montanita.
Bolivia
The weather in Bolivia varies over December, making for exciting discoveries across the country – from the hot, humid lowlands of Santa Cruz and Trinidad to the rainy highlands of Lake Titicaca and Sucre.
Events in December
Ecuador
Ecuador – Quito Festival
The build-up to Fiestas de Quito is marked by bullfights, parties in the street and reveller packed chivas (or festive open buses) cruising around to Spanish music. The final event brings everyone together to party to the entertainment provided by local bands and DJs across town.
9-19°C daytime temperatures
Late November 6 December
Quito
Colombia
Colombia – Cali Fair
Dance in the streets of Columbia’s Capital of Salsa, at La Feria de Cali, a musical, cultural street carnival in Cali city. Horseback and classical car parades carry out alongside concerts, beauty pageants and bullfighting. An array of Colombian cuisine on offer completes the experience.
18-29°C daytime temperatures
25 – 30 December
Cali
Peru
Peru – Santuranticuy
Literally translated, the ‘Sale of Saints’ is Peru’s most prized Christmas fair, adorned with hand-carved religious figurines and many a retablo, or beautifully boxed nativity scene. Purchase puppets, paintings, leatherwork and clothes. Feliz Navidad!
8-21°C daytime temperatures
24 December
Cusco
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Brazil
December is a great time to visit Brazil, and the latter part of the month sees a combination of hot weather, warm seas and world-famous events. Although this time is also considered part of the wet season, don’t be fooled – when the sun is shining it’s time to hit the beach! Rio de Janeiro offers two bustling beaches, Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach, while the lesser known (but no less loved) Baia do Sancho Beach is a traveller favourite. Expect average lows of 22°C and highs of 29°C.
Uruguay
Summertime in Uruguay offers some of the best beach options in South America. Uruguay’s capital of Montevideo is home to Carrasco Beach, a stunning stretch of sand in the upmarket seaside escape, and nearby Playa Verde Beach. The pristine, popular beaches of Punta del Este include Playa Mansa and Playa Brava, and for the brave there is the nudist beach of Playa Chihuahua in Maldonado. An average of 22°C is exceeded by an occasional high of 27°C.
Venezuela
The dry season falls in December and Venezuela’s Carribean coast is dotted with tropical, beach resort islands begging to be visited at this time. The isthmus of Cayo De Agua presents postcard worthy white-sand beaches, while a hop over to Margarita Island in Nueva Esparta sees an array of azure lapped shores from Playa Punta arena to Playa el Yaque and Playa Caribe, to name a few. Average temperatures range from 22°C in mainland Venezuela to 27°C on Margarita Island.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in September to get great discounts on your December trip! Not ready to travel in December? Book your trip in December and travel in March to get the best deals!
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