Forget summertime, December is the new prime time for travel! Seeking the best places to go in December? Look no further! Picture this: the aroma of mulled wine mingling with the crisp scent of freshly fallen snow in NYC and Berlin. Or, if you prefer your December with a side of sand and sea, think sun-drenched St. Barth’s.
Surprised? Wait until you hear about off-season gems like Fiji and Madagascar, which are (relatively) easy on the wallet this time of year. And don’t forget, Down Under, sunny season is in full swing, making Australia an absolute must-see. Not only will you discover Australia’s most unexpected success stories, but you’ll also have our top tips on how to explore sustainably.
So, whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or a beachside escape, December just might be the best time to find your next adventure. Trust us, the best places to go in December are calling your name, and one of these destinations is sure to top your list!
Table of Contents
Best Places to Go in December: Winter Wonderland or Sun-Kissed Escapes?
Best Places to Go in December: Scotland’s Winter Magic
Scotland, UK
Temperature: 7°C high; 2°C low
Season: Winter
When the sun graces Scotland, it’s pure magic. But don’t underestimate this raw and rugged land in the chillier months. Imagine this: nothing beats the coziness of sipping a few wee drams by a roaring fire after a day of braving the elements – whether you’re fat-biking along East Lothian’s windswept beaches or tracking red deer across the snow-dusted slopes of the Cairngorms.
Edinburgh in December? It’s raucously festive! Winter is the perfect time to savor the hearty delights of the city’s top restaurants. Start with Tom Kitchin’s Michelin-starred Leith gem, The Kitchin, which celebrates Scottish produce. Then, indulge in his elevated pub fare at Stockbridge’s The Scran and Scallie.
Sustainable travel tip: While a road trip through Scotland’s vast wilderness is tempting, why not opt for a railway holiday instead? Riding the West Highland Line, you’ll experience one of the UK’s most scenic train journeys. Talk about traveling in style!
Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the newest hot spot in Edinburgh’s hotel scene, a modern cousin to the beloved Gleneagles in Perthshire. For a more private stay with a prime location, check out this cozy city-centre loft overlooking the Royal Mile – one of our top Airbnb picks in Edinburgh.
So, if you’re hunting for the best places to go in December, make sure Scotland is on your list. It’s got everything from festive city vibes to rugged outdoor adventures, making it one of the best places to go in December. Trust us, Scotland is one of the absolute best places to go in December!
Also Read: Discover 7 Best Places To Visit in October 2024
Best Places to Go in December: Maldives’ Tropical Bliss
Maldives
Temperature: 30ºC high; 25ºC low
Season: Dry Season
If you’re dreaming of tropical paradise, the Maldives is your go-to destination anytime, but December? It’s simply magical. As the dry season kicks off, expect blissfully low rainfall, minimal humidity, a delightful dry heat, and endless sunshine. It’s no wonder the Maldives tops the list of best places to go in December.
Fancy swimming with whale sharks and manta rays? Head to South Ari and the western atolls’ edges for an unforgettable underwater adventure. Plus, from December to March, you can hop on a direct flight from the UK to Malé with British Airways, whisking you away from the gloomy British winter to the radiant Indian Ocean in just 10 hours. That’s practically an extra day of beach bliss!
Sustainable travel tip: Flying to the Maldives isn’t the most eco-friendly, but you can still minimize your carbon footprint. Choose resorts with genuine sustainability practices (no greenwashing here). Opt for responsible dive and day trip operators who contribute to conservation efforts. And remember, hands off the corals and marine life – look, don’t touch!
Where to stay: Decisions, decisions. The Maldives boasts some of the best hotels in the world. For something new and shiny, check out Alila Kothaifaru Maldives. This latest addition features 80 villas, split between sunrise and sunset overwater options and secluded beach villas hidden by lush vegetation. If you’re after a classic favorite, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives offers only overwater villas, preserving the island’s wild beauty and showcasing its stunning beaches.
So, when planning your winter escape, remember the Maldives is one of the best places to go in December. From incredible marine life to luxurious resorts, it’s the ultimate December destination. Don’t miss out on experiencing one of the best places to go in December!
Also Read: 7 Best Countries To Visit in November 2024
Best Places to Go in December: NYC’s Festive Wonderland
New York City, USA
Temperature: 8°C high; -3°C low
Season: Winter
Christmas in New York City? An absolute no-brainer. The Big Apple transforms into a festive wonderland straight out of a movie. Picture this: ice-skating beneath the colossal Rockefeller Center tree, marveling at the theatrical window displays on Fifth Avenue, and soaking in the holiday spirit. Think your neighbors go overboard with Christmas lights? Wait until you see Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights. The decorations here are so over-the-top that there’s an official bus tour of the most extravagantly lit blocks.
And when it’s time to thaw out, New York’s best hotels are ready to warm you up with a cozy drink by a crackling lobby fire. Try The Ludlow’s Pigalle cocktail – bourbon with a kick of ancho chile – and you’ll be toasty in no time.
Sustainable travel tip: Navigating New York traffic can be a nightmare, but you can dodge the gridlock thanks to the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway. This 31-mile bike route around the island lets you explore the city on a bike-share scheme (Citi Bike stations are everywhere!).
Where to stay: Midtown tranquility is now a thing, thanks to the newly opened Aman New York. Perfect for a winter visit, every suite comes with a working fireplace. For a quintessential Christmas experience, snag a room at The Plaza, offering stunning views over Central Park.
When it comes to the best places to go in December, New York City should be at the top of your list. From dazzling lights to heartwarming drinks, NYC is undeniably one of the best places to go in December. Don’t miss out on this festive extravaganza – it’s one of the best places to go in December!
Also Read: Best Hotels in Austin: Can You Handle the 8 Most Luxurious Stays?
Best Places to Go in December: Venice’s Winter Charm
Venice, Italy
Temperature: 7ºC high; 0ºC low
Season: Winter
Venice, the Floating City, might just be the most beautiful place in Italy – if only you could see it without the swarms of tourists. Enter December, when it feels like you have the city to yourself. Sure, you might think Venice’s lagoons are best when sparkling under the summer sun, but imagine this: an eerie, icy fog curling from the water’s surface. It’s a sight that will give you chills (the good kind). You might even get lucky and catch a rare Venetian snowfall. Plus, strolling through St Mark’s without dodging selfie sticks? Priceless.
Sustainable travel tip: Visiting in the off-season is a great start, but let’s do Venice a real favor. The biggest over-tourism issue here is day-trippers who hit the major sights and vanish, leaving little benefit for the locals. Instead, stay a few nights, take your time exploring hidden corners, dine at neighborhood restaurants, and shop at small, independent stores. It’s better for Venice and makes for a richer, more authentic holiday experience.
Where to stay: For knockout lagoon views and chic interiors, check out Ca’di Dio. If you’re in the mood for a lively dining scene, Il Palazzo Experimental is the place to be at aperitivo hour. For more top picks, see our selection of the best hotels in Venice.
So, if you’re listing the best places to go in December, make sure Venice is at the top. From its ghostly winter charm to the rare chance of snow, Venice transforms into one of the best places to go in December.
Also Read: 7 Best Hotels in Palm Springs: Your Luxurious Havens Await!
Best Places to Go in December: Why St Barth’s is the Ultimate Winter Getaway
St Barth’s, Caribbean
Temperature: 30°C high; 24°C low
Season: Cool
Everyone and their glam squad are in St Barth’s come December. Why? Because this island is the ultimate discreet-A-lister’s sunny sanctuary, boasting beaches so perfect they’re practically airbrushed, restaurants where the food is as fabulous as the view, and villas that scream luxury louder than a jet ski in a quiet bay. Miss out on booking your December escape here and you’ll be left with nothing but FOMO, rainy days, and endless scrolling through Instagram shots of the ultra-chic sunning themselves on paradise-perfect sands.
Sustainable travel tip: If you’re going to splurge, do it sustainably. Hotel Manapany is your go-to, flaunting solar panels, an onsite veggie garden, and seafood sourced straight from local fishermen. Plus, they offer electric-car rentals – because saving the planet should come with a side of luxury.
Where to stay: Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf serves up chic French beach house vibes. For a touch of classic elegance, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France sprawls along Flamands Beach like the grande dame of St Barth’s. For more luxurious options, see our guide to the best hotels in St Barth’s.
So, if you’re hunting for the best places to go in December, St Barth’s should be on your list. It’s the crème de la crème of December getaways, making it one of the best places to go in December for a sun-soaked escape.
Also Read: Can These 6 Best Resorts in Costa Rica Truly Wow You?
Best Places to Go in December: Dubai’s Dazzling Winter Wonderland
If you’re dreaming of a winter sun spectacular, look no further than Dubai, where “bigger, brighter, sparklier” is practically a city motto. From November to January, the weather cools to a delightful 19-25ºC, and the sun is on a permanent vacation mode. December in Dubai is a whirl of excitement with the Rugby Sevens, a film festival, pre-Christmas designer sales, and Christmas trees that could give the Rockefeller Center a run for its money—loaded with enough lights and Swarovski crystals to put your holiday bling to shame.
Everyone claims they’re not into flashy displays, but then they hit Dubai and realize, hey, maybe they are!
Sustainable travel tip: While you’re basking in Dubai’s glitter, take a moment to explore its cultural side at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Nestled in the charming Al Fahidi Historic District, this spot offers a traditional lunch with Emirati hosts, plus a chance to learn about local culture and Islam. It’s all about “Open doors. Open minds.”
Where to stay: For a slice of serene luxury, the Bulgari Resort Dubai offers understated elegance and a private island setting. If you’re here to dive into the beach and restaurant scene, the Mandarin Oriental Dubai delivers with its top-notch beach access, dining, and a spa that’ll make you question why you ever left. For more dazzling options, check out our picks of the best hotels in Dubai.
So, if you’re considering the best places to go in December, Dubai should top your list. With its vibrant events and luxurious stays, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to go in December. Trust us, Dubai’s sparkle is simply irresistible!
Also Read: 7 Best Hotels in Amalfi Coast for your Perfect Getaway
Best Places to Go in December: Milan’s Festive Fashion Frenzy
Milan, Italy
Temperature: 7°C high; 1°C low
Season: Winter
Think Milan is too cool to bother with Christmas cheer? Think again. As Italy’s fashion capital, Milan might seem too chic for holiday spirit, but it’s actually one of the most festive cities in Europe come December. Early in the month, the city celebrates the feast of its patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio, with a market that lights up the grounds of the red-brick Castello Sforzesco. Here, you can scoop up local delicacies and handmade goodies, then indulge in mulled wine and castagnaccio – a chestnut and pine-kernel cake that’s so good it’s practically a winter miracle.
After perusing the holiday market, strut your stuff around the famed fashion district and then head to the newly trendy Zona Tortona. This area is perfect for checking out Milan’s up-and-coming galleries and design studios, plus it’s home to brunch-time tuna tacos at God Save The Food – because who doesn’t need brunch in December?
Where to stay? For a touch of luxury, the Mandarin Oriental is a top choice, complete with a Michelin-starred restaurant and a lively hotel bar. If you’re all about embracing grandeur, the Four Seasons Milano, set in a stunning 15th-century convent, will make you feel like royalty.
So if you’re scouting for the best places to go in December, Milan should be high on your list. With its festive flair, delicious treats, and stylish vibes, Milan is one of the best places to go in December.
Best Places to Go in December: Costa Rica’s Tropical Paradise
Costa Rica
Temperature: 27ºC high; 18ºC low
Season: Summer
Looking for the best places to go in December? Say hello to Costa Rica, where tranquility meets adventure in the most delightful way. This Central American gem is not just peaceful but brimming with excitement. Imagine surfing and practicing yoga on the Pacific coast in laid-back towns like Nosara, or escaping to the Caribbean shores and islands for that dreamy castaway vibe.
Inland, Costa Rica’s jungles, wildlife, and volcanoes promise a thrill-seeker’s paradise with ziplining through cloud forests, white-water rafting, volcano hikes, and spotting big cats in Corcovado National Park. And December? Oh, it’s prime beach weather and the start of humpback whale season! These majestic creatures are heading south for warmer waters, making it one of the best places to go in December for whale-watching.
Sustainable travel tip: Costa Rica’s eco-lodges are the real deal, from beachfront to jungle retreats. Staying at these spots helps support local communities and conservation efforts – and who doesn’t love a little eco-friendly travel karma?
Where to stay: For a quintessential Costa Rican experience, check into The Harmony Hotel in Nosara. It’s practically an institution, boasting a Healing Centre with everything from beach yoga to post-surf massages, plus a palm-fringed pool perfect for unwinding.
So, when you’re considering the best places to go in December, Costa Rica should definitely be on your radar. Between its stunning beaches, thrilling adventures, and whale-watching opportunities, it’s one of the best places to go in December. Don’t miss out on experiencing this tropical paradise!
Best Places to Go in December: São Paulo’s Springtime Flair
São Paulo, Brazil
Temperature: 27ºC high; 18ºC low
Season: Spring
While Rio de Janeiro hogs the spotlight and tourist crowds, São Paulo is where the real insiders go for a taste of Brazilian sophistication. This dynamic city is bursting with cutting-edge art, innovative architecture, and a food scene that’s redefining Brazilian cuisine. December is the perfect time to visit, with warm, dry spring days and temperatures rising to keep things pleasantly toasty. Plus, the city is buzzing with activity – including the São Paulo Art Biennial (every other year) – before the locals head off to Trancoso or Buzios for holiday beach bashes.
Sustainable travel tip: If you’re keen to shop sustainably, cool off in Pinheiros, where you’ll find Insecta. This eco-friendly gem offers vegan footwear made from recycled clothes and bags crafted from plastic bottles. It’s the perfect way to shop green while looking chic.
Where to stay: For a taste of luxury nestled in nature, check out Pálacio Tangará. Situated in 26 acres of lush parkland in the elegant Morumbi neighborhood, this grand dame of São Paulo hotels joined the ranks of Oetker Collection’s prestigious properties, including Hotel du Cap, Eden Rock, and Le Bristol Paris.
So, if you’re hunting for the best places to go in December, São Paulo should definitely be on your radar. With its vibrant spring vibe and cultural richness, it’s one of the best places to go in December.
