Where to go in December?

What destination to choose for a winter vacation? Even better, where to go in December? This is a question that arises when you want to enjoy the sun far from the European cold or discover the beauty of winter from a different perspective! From the paradisiacal beaches of Thailand and the Maldives to the enchanting scenery of Lapland, taking a detour through Vietnam's culture or the extravagance of Dubai, several destinations will be excellent candidates to determine your next vacation. Here's the list of the best countries to visit in December if you are unsure about where to go next winter!

If you want to travel in winter, you can opt for sunny paradise destinations or a snowy and enchanting country like Lapland. To help you choose a destination that fits your year-end trip, here's a summary table of the best places to go in December based on climate, temperatures, and your budget ⬇️

In December, the Maldives offer ideal conditions to enjoy a sunny getaway while escaping the chill of winter... Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this paradise archipelago features turquoise waters and white sandy beaches that will please those who want to relax or engage in activities such as diving!

Temperatures hover around 28 degrees Celsius, with generous sunshine, perfect for exploring the coral reefs... December also marks the end of the monsoon for a drier climate, making it a superb destination if you're not sure where to go for sun!

With its tropical climate, Thailand is a very popular destination in December. This is indeed the best time to visit Bangkok and its temples or explore the paradisiacal beaches of the south, such as Phuket or Krabi. You can find all the information on what to do in Bangkok as well as the best places to stay in Phuket in my dedicated articles

The air temperature is mild, ranging from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius, with little rain. Of course, Thailand is rich in treasures, from floating markets to Buddhist temples and its cuisine rich in flavors! If you're unsure where to travel in December, Thailand might be a wise choice if you need sun away from the cold settling in Europe!

Among the best destinations for December, the Yucatan Peninsula is a great choice! Indeed, Mexico enjoys a warm and dry climate, an advantage not to be overlooked for exploring the beaches of Cancun, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen. This little corner of paradise also offers plenty of activities such as swimming in cenotes and at the beaches, visiting the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, or enjoying the nightlife... you will surely find out what to do in Mexico! Of course, the Caribbean Sea has ideal temperatures for diving and snorkeling, so you can enjoy the coral reefs and marine life!

If you don't want to travel too far, Spain is a good idea for an enjoyable and affordable vacation. This country is renowned for its pleasant weather year-round and mild temperatures in winter. Seville, Barcelona, Alicante, I especially recommend planning a trip to the Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and Costa Dorada. These coastal regions are known for their sunny climate, even in December, and their unique landscapes

Easily accessible by plane and ideal for tighter budgets, visiting Spain in winter is a reliable choice for those who enjoy simple pleasures. It's also ideal if you are planning a short stay to visit Barcelona in 3 days, for example

Dubai is certainly a destination that rarely comes to mind! Perhaps due to its superficial reputation that many prefer to avoid... However, the thermometer in Dubai in December is perfect, averaging 25 degrees Celsius. The city is known for its dynamism and spectacular attractions, where you can ascend to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, explore traditional souks, embark on a safari in the Dubai desert, or relax on the beaches of the Persian Gulf... you will definitely find out what to do in Dubai! The shopping malls are also great spots for dining and a bit of shopping! ️

For a complete change of scenery in December, Reunion Island will let you discover volcanoes, waterfalls, and most importantly, breathtaking beaches! The European winter marks the beginning of the austral summer on this intense island, with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius...

While there, you can enjoy hiking on Piton de la Fournaise, take walks in the natural cirques, participate in Creole festivities, and engage in numerous activities, such as diving, canyoning, and even whale watching! The options are plentiful in Reunion, so don't hesitate to consider this destination. I recommend reading my article to find out where to stay in Reunion if this destination intrigues you

Where to go in December? Well, why not visit Palawan in the Philippines? This province has become a sought-after destination for its dreamlike landscapes, renowned for its beaches and clear lagoons... It especially attracts nature lovers and those eager to try diving. Regarding the weather, the thermometer shows temperatures around 28 degrees Celsius and offers a dry climate. These conditions are perfect for exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visiting the neighboring islands of Coron and El Nido, participating in water activities, and discovering the local culture

In Martinique, December marks the beginning of the dry season, with an average temperature of 28 degrees Celsius and very sunny days! So you won't have any trouble enjoying beaches like Salines, taking a lovely stroll in Balata Botanical Garden, or hiking on the slopes of Montagne Pelée

A trip to Martinique in December also means immersing yourself in Creole traditions, exploring the markets, and much more! Accommodations where to stay in Martinique are also numerous and varied. In short, it's a destination to consider.

Deciding to travel to Patagonia in December is quite an audacious and original choice! By choosing this destination, you will enjoy the arrival of the austral summer, and thus pleasant temperatures. So, visit Ushuaia, a great starting point to discover the glaciers, lakes, and mountains of Tierra del Fuego National Park, or El Calafate, the town from which you can visit the Perito Moreno Glacier. In truth, Patagonia is so vast that there are many things to do. So I'll leave it to you to choose this destination, and perhaps start planning your trip before departure!

Choosing Vietnam for a vacation in December can be a good idea for those seeking mild and pleasant weather during winter. With temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius, especially near Halong Bay and Hanoi, you can visit the Vietnamese capital and see places like the Temple of Literature and the Old Quarter, or marvel at thousands of limestone peaks rising from the water in the bay

Don't hesitate to take long morning walks when the mist settles over the landscapes; the atmosphere is simply unique and mystical! To prepare for your trip, feel free to read my article to find out what to do in Hanoi and choose the best accommodation where to stay in Hanoi.

If you decide to visit New Zealand in December, it will be during the austral summer! This is the best time to explore the South Island, fill up on stunning landscapes from Milford Sound fjords to mountains, as well as great diversity in terms of flora and fauna. During this period, it's better to focus on hikes like in Abel Tasman National Park, take excursions to the glaciers of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, or relax on golden sandy beaches. Temperatures are mild, which will be a plus for exploring this region with multiple faces. If you wish to turn your stay into a road trip, don't hesitate to read my article on renting a van in New Zealand!

For some, going to a cold country in December may seem counterproductive, yet Lapland is an exceptional destination to experience a magical Christmas! Located north of the Arctic Circle, it is filled with pristine landscapes and mythic towns like Rovaniemi where you can visit Santa Claus Village.

Of course, winter activities are numerous, from snowmobiling, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, to excursions to the best spots to see the northern lights. The polar climate, although more extreme than cold, will be nothing compared to the warm welcome of the locals and their comforting cuisine! I have plenty of articles about the region that might interest you, including what to do in Lapland or finding the best places to stay in Lapland during your visit

With its tropical climate, Costa Rica can be a great idea for places to go in December. This month marks the beginning of the dry season with perfect conditions to discover the country's biodiversity. Among the sites to see, Manuel Antonio National Park is full of beaches and forests, as well as Arenal Volcano for its natural hot springs. Costa Rica is also renowned for its environmental commitment with numerous eco-tourism focused activities. You can observe various animal species ranging from monkeys to sloths and tropical birds. So why not head to Central America in winter to enjoy incredible landscapes and local culture!

This article on destinations to visit in December is coming to an end. If you're particularly looking to travel during the holidays, I also have articles on spending Christmas in the sun or for a magical Christmas in New York