Where to travel in December: Top 15 destinations
Ready to discover the best destinations to travel to in December 2025? Let’s get started!
1. Lapland, Finland
This destination is the northernmost in Finland and one of the least populated, but most charming!
It is perfect if you are in search of peace and total immersion in nature and its strangest phenomena. Like, for example, the midnight sun (not during this time of the year) and the northern lights, two things you should witness at least once in your life.
December has the shortest days of the year, with only a little more than 3 hours of daylight per day. Quite a unique experience. In addition, temperatures are low, as we are in the middle of winter. This makes it ideal for skiing on some of its fantastic and exclusive slopes.
Its capital is Rovaniemi, the main gateway to this region. Very close to Rovaniemi is the Santa Claus Village, where Santa Claus lives. Other interesting places in this area are Salla, Ruka, or Iso-Syöte.
2. Alsace (France), where to travel in December in Europe.
Another fantastic destination to visit in December is Alsace, one of the most popular areas to see in France and one of the best Christmas destinations. This region, located in the northeast of France, has everything you need to spend a dream few days. Beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and delicious local food.
And it gets even more enchanting at Christmas, when its streets are filled with lights, picturesque decorations, and its famous flea markets, which attract people from all over the world.
The two cities not to be missed are Strasbourg and Colmar, although there are many more. The first is its capital. You will marvel at its beautiful streets and its incredible Notre Dame Cathedral, among many other places to see in Strasbourg.
If you visit Alsace, it is not a bad idea to make a base in the capital of the region. In this guide on where to stay in Strasbourg, I give you tips on accommodation.
On the other hand, visiting Colmar is to enter a fairy tale. Its streets full of colorful half-timbered houses are a real treasure. Moreover, at this time of the year, it looks more beautiful than ever. Do not miss all the things to see and do in Colmar.
If you like wine, be sure to try the German Shepherd wine. There are numerous wineries that you can visit to discover the magic of this local product.
3. Chile, where to travel in December 2025
If what you are looking for during December is to take a walk and relax with warm temperatures and long days, Chile is a great option. In this South American country, summer is starting, and you can enjoy thousands of options, including cities, beaches, mountain landscapes, and deserts. There is everything!
You can start your tour in Santiago de Chile, its capital. Besides being very beautiful, this city has a rich cultural and nightlife. Valparaíso, a coastal city, is also beautiful and is characterized by the colorful facades of the houses built on the side of a hill.
Punta Arenas is a city located in the south of the country. It is a good starting point to visit the incredible Torres del Paine National Park. Here you can make wonderful hiking trails while you get to know some of the most beautiful natural landscapes on the planet.
In Chile you will also find Easter Island, famous for its giant monoliths, which arouse so much fascination around the world. If you prefer, you can get lost among the landscapes of the Atacama Desert, where you will also find one of the largest observatories on the planet.
Nor can you leave without tasting the local wines and delicious dishes made from fish and seafood.
4. Madrid, where to travel in December in Spain
Its architecture, its monuments, its squares, and, above all, the good atmosphere in its streets are some of the reasons to visit Madrid in December (or any time of the year!). This city has a lot of history and a rich cultural life, which usually enchants all travelers who decide to visit it.
In addition, it has very good gastronomy. In its many restaurants, you can enjoy the typical dishes of the different Spanish regions but also of the different cuisines of the world.
On the other hand, if you like art, you will appreciate the possibility of visiting very interesting museums, such as the Museo Nacional del Prado and the Reina Sofia. But there is so much more to do in Madrid.
Also, in December, the streets have a very lively atmosphere. Be sure to eat some churros with chocolate to warm up and do the last Christmas shopping while strolling through its main avenues.
Here’s a Madrid in 3 days itinerary and my recommendations on where to sleep in Madrid. So it will be easier for you to organize your visit.
5. Egypt
Centuries go by, and Egypt remains one of the most attractive destinations in the world. This is because the Egyptian civilization has played a major role in the history of mankind, especially because of its fascinating culture, and its mysteries and secrets continue to attract travelers from all over the world.
It is a good destination to travel to in December as temperatures are more pleasant, unlike in spring or summer, when temperatures can be too high.
What about a cruise on the Nile or a visit to the many tombs of pharaohs scattered throughout its territory? Don’t forget to include in your tour the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, Cairo, the Temple of Luxor, and the Temple of Abu Simbel, among many other places.
6. India
This country is simply fascinating no matter when you visit, thanks to its rich and unique culture. December is actually one of the best months to go. There’s little rain and the temperatures are comfortable, not too hot.
In every city in India, religion and spirituality are deeply woven into daily life. Even though some cities can feel chaotic, especially the bigger ones like Delhi or Mumbai, the people are incredibly friendly, making the whole experience truly rewarding.
One of the most popular routes to explore is the Golden Triangle, which connects Delhi, Jaipur (the Pink City), and Agra, home to the breathtaking and unmissable Taj Mahal. Beyond the culture and the people, India will captivate you with its incredible smells, flavors, and stunning landscapes.
🏥 Regardless of where you are traveling in December, remember that it is very important to get good travel insurance if you do not have medical coverage at your destination. I always use and recommend Heymondo, a company that can offer a 5% discount code.
7. London, where to travel in December in Europe
Visiting the capital of England is always a good idea. Although in December it can be quite cold, its streets are filled with lights and decorations to welcome Christmas, which makes it a very interesting time of the year to travel there.
If you want to visit places with history, you have the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, among many others. If you want to take long walks in green areas, you can get lost in Hyde Park or Regent’s Park. There are also many art spaces, such as the Tate Modern and the National Gallery. The British Museum deserves a special mention; be sure to visit it!
But this is only a part of all the interesting things that London has to offer. It is one of the most important cities in the world, not only for its historical and cultural heritage but also for its rich nightlife and numerous artistic expressions. You can discover all this while strolling through its wonderful neighborhoods.
8. Thailand
If in December you are looking to escape from the cold to a tropical climate with dream beaches, an excellent option is Thailand. This Southeast Asian country has become one of the most important tourist destinations on this side of the world. There are plenty of reasons!
This paradise has not only beautiful beaches. There you will also find historical temples, islands, picturesque cities, and delicious cuisine.
The capital of the country, Bangkok, is surprisingly full of contrasts. A few meters away from an ancient religious temple, you can find huge skyscrapers or a modern shopping mall. Bangkok is the gateway to the country and a very good first contact with the local culture.
Among the most popular beach destinations in the country are Phuket, Phi Phi, Ko Lipe, Ko Samui, Ko Tao, Ko Pha Ngan, etc. In the north of the country, do not miss Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, or the small town of Pai. Beyond the beauty of its landscapes and the cultural and historical richness of Thailand, its people are wonderful.
9. New York
The cold weather may make you hesitate to travel to New York in December. However, you’ll change your mind when you imagine this beautiful city getting ready for Christmas. Ice skating at Rockefeller, shopping for gifts on the city’s main avenues, or seeing the lights are just some of the things you can do during your visit.
Beyond the attractions of visiting the Big Apple at this time of the year, the city still offers a wide variety of plans: stroll through Central Park, go to Times Square, cross the Brooklyn Bridge, visit Grand Central Terminal, enjoy a Broadway musical, or tour its picturesque neighborhoods, such as The Bronx, Little Italy, Chinatown, or Soho.
Do not miss all the things to see and do in New York and my guide on where to stay in New York if you decide on this destination for your trip in December.
10. Colombia, where to travel in December 2025
This northern South American country is another destination you should consider traveling to in December. With places like Cartagena de Indias, Medellin, Santa Marta, the Eje Cafetero, or Guatapé, you are sure to have a great vacation.
Beyond the historical, architectural, and cultural richness that you will find throughout its territory, Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with landscapes that include deserts, beaches, and mountains. There is also a volcanic zone next to the Andes Mountains, and you will have plenty of options!
Its people are characterized by their hospitality and the food by its great taste. I assure you that you will enjoy each and every one of their dishes, which are mostly prepared with rice, meat, and tubers. Of course, you must taste a delicious Colombian coffee, considered one of the best in the world.
Be sure to review all my tips for traveling to Colombia if you decide to travel to this country in December.
11. Chamonix (France)
We return to France, this time to propose a trip to Chamonix, a beautiful village located at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. For those who love nature and snowy landscapes, it is one of the best destinations to travel to in December.
Although activities such as hiking are more limited at this time of year, it is a good time to practice winter sports. In Chamonix, you will find numerous ski slopes, both for experts and beginners. And if this is not the goal of your trip, one of the best things to do is to take the Aiguille du Mid cable car.
In addition, at this time of the year you can enjoy the magnificent Christmas atmosphere, with its markets and cozy cafes where you can take shelter from the cold.
12. Granada (Spain)
Granada is a fantastic city to travel to at any time of the year, and why not go in December? The influx of tourists is less than in other months, and in the streets there is a special joy.
In addition to visiting the main tourist sites of Granada, such as the Alhambra, the Cathedral of Granada, or the Albaicin neighborhood, you can also get to know the Christmas decorations of the city.
On the other hand, if you like to practice winter sports, you can go to Sierra Nevada and enjoy its ski slopes. Or if you prefer to forget about the cold and snow, you can go to the coast of Granada and enjoy the sea and beautiful villages like Salobreña.
If you choose this destination and you are going to book your accommodation, this guide on where to stay in Granada will help you.
13. Andorra
This time, we’re recommending another cold but beautiful destination, perfect if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding. In Andorra, the winter sports season usually begins in early December, so if you visit around then you can enjoy the first snow of the season on the slopes.
By late November, the Christmas market is already set up. Andorra la Vella looks magical with its holiday lights and festive atmosphere. Outside the capital, you’ll find small, charming villages. If it has snowed, they’re covered in snow and look straight out of a postcard.
Last year, Andorra was our Christmas getaway. It was a last‑minute decision. We wanted to go somewhere close enough to drive to and it turned out to be a great choice. It snowed, so we got to ski and enjoy some truly stunning winter scenery.
14. Canary Islands, one of the best places to travel in December
The Canary Islands are always a good idea, especially if you’re escaping from somewhere with freezing winter temperatures. That’s why they’re one of my top picks for December if you’re looking to swap the cold for sunny skies, warm weather, and jaw‑dropping scenery.
As you probably know, the Canaries are made up of eight inhabited islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa. Choosing just one for your next trip isn’t easy. They’re all stunning, and each has its own unique charm.
Personally, I’ve been to Fuerteventura and Lanzarote (and even managed a side trip to La Graciosa on that same journey), but Tenerife and La Palma are high on my wish list. Whichever island you choose, I’m pretty sure you’ll have an unforgettable trip.
15. Guatemala
The best time to visit Guatemala is from December to April, when the dry season is in full swing. Traveling during these months means you’ll avoid the heavy rains.
You’ll most likely arrive in the country through its capital, Guatemala City, but if there’s one place in this Central American gem that truly stands out, it’s Antigua. Often called one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the world, it’s home to magical landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch, the San José Cathedral, and the Church of La Merced.
Guatemala is a land of volcanoes, so expect jaw‑dropping natural landscapes. Some of its most spectacular treasures include Acatenango Volcano, Pacaya Volcano, Lake Atitlán, and the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey. And of course, no trip to Guatemala would be complete without visiting Tikal National Park, one of the most important Maya sites in the world.
Map of where to travel in December
In the following map, you can see all the places marked.
Don’t miss my travel tips and, if you need more ideas, other travel destinations.
I hope this list of where to travel December has been very useful to find inspiration and choose your next destination. If you have any suggestions or want to tell me about your experience in one of these places, I’ll read them in the comments.
