Where Should I Travel in December? 10 Great Destinations to Explore

Introduction

Are you looking for the perfect place for a December vacation? With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide where to go. From winter wonderlands to city breaks and beach escapes, there are plenty of exciting destinations to explore in December.

This article will help you find the best place to travel in December. We’ll look at 10 great destinations around the world, including top winter destinations, budget-friendly options, holiday getaways, warm and cold weather spots, snowy paradises, city breaks and beach escapes, and unusual places for adventurous travelers.

Top 10 Winter Destinations for December Travel

If you’re looking for a classic winter escape, these top destinations are perfect for December travel. From snow-covered mountains to frosty forests, each of these destinations offers something special for winter travelers.

1. Lapland, Finland

Lapland is one of the most popular winter destinations in Europe, and for good reason. This frozen land of snow-covered forests and reindeer is the perfect spot for a magical winter adventure. In Lapland, you can experience the unique culture of the Sami people, take part in traditional activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing, and even meet Santa Claus himself.

Pros:

• Magical winter scenery
• Unique cultural experiences
• Plenty of outdoor activities

Cons:

• Expensive flights and accommodation
• Some activities are weather dependent

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Santa Claus Village
• Go snowmobiling or husky sledding
• Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
• Explore the Arctic Circle

2. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is a stunning winter wonderland, with towering waterfalls, vast meadows, and ancient sequoia groves blanketed in snow. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, from skiing to snowshoeing, and the park’s famous landmarks are even more beautiful in winter.

Pros:

• Beautiful winter scenery
• Plenty of outdoor activities
• Wide range of accommodation options

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable
• Ski resorts may be expensive

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Yosemite Falls and Half Dome
• Go skiing or snowshoeing
• Take a scenic drive through the park
• Explore the giant sequoia groves

3. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is the perfect winter destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This sprawling mountain paradise is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in North America, and its ski resorts offer plenty of opportunity to hit the slopes. Plus, you can explore the area’s unique wildlife and soak in the natural thermal springs.

Pros:

• Incredible winter scenery
• Plenty of outdoor activities
• Wide range of accommodation options

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable
• Ski resorts may be expensive

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• Go skiing or snowboarding
• Take a scenic drive through the park
• Explore the wildlife and thermal springs

4. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

The Swiss Alps are a winter paradise, with majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and cozy mountain towns. This is the perfect destination for skiers and snowboarders, with world-class ski resorts, endless powder, and spectacular views. Plus, you can explore the charming villages and try some of the region’s famous cuisine.

Pros:

• Stunning winter scenery
• World-class ski resorts
• Charming mountain villages

Cons:

• Expensive flights and accommodation
• Some activities are weather dependent

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Zermatt and Interlaken
• Go skiing or snowboarding
• Take a scenic train ride through the Alps
• Explore the quaint mountain villages

5. Bavarian Alps, Germany

The Bavarian Alps are a winter wonderland, with picturesque villages, rolling hills, and snow-capped mountains. Here, you can experience the famous Bavarian culture, explore the area’s amazing castles, and enjoy winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing. Plus, you can sample some of the region’s famous beers and cuisine.

Pros:

• Beautiful winter scenery
• Unique cultural experiences
• Plenty of outdoor activities

Cons:

• Expensive flights and accommodation
• Some activities are weather dependent

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
• Go skiing or snowshoeing
• Take a scenic drive through the mountains
• Explore the quaint mountain villages

The Best Places to Visit in December for Every Budget

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly destination, there are plenty of options to choose from. These affordable destinations offer plenty of activities and attractions, without breaking the bank.

1. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a great destination for budget travelers in December. This vibrant city is full of culture, history, and nightlife, and it’s surprisingly affordable. Plus, you can explore the city’s famous thermal baths and sample some of the local cuisine.

Pros:

• Affordable flights and accommodation
• Vibrant culture and nightlife
• Plenty of attractions and activities

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable
• Can be crowded during peak season

Suggested Activities:

• Visit the Thermal Baths of Széchenyi
• Explore the Castle District
• Take a scenic river cruise
• Sample the local cuisine

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is another great destination for budget travelers. This picturesque city is full of history and charm, and its cobblestone streets are lined with beautiful Baroque buildings. Plus, you can explore the city’s many parks and sample some of the local beer.

Pros:

• Affordable flights and accommodation
• Picturesque architecture and parks
• Plenty of attractions and activities

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable
• Can be crowded during peak season

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Prague Castle and Old Town Square
• Explore the Charles Bridge and Petřín Hill
• Take a scenic boat tour of the Vltava River
• Sample the local beer and cuisine

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is an ideal destination for budget travelers in December. This sun-drenched city is full of culture and character, and its picturesque streets are lined with colorful buildings and tiled facades. Plus, you can explore the city’s many parks and sample some of the local cuisine.

Pros:

• Affordable flights and accommodation
• Rich culture and history
• Plenty of attractions and activities

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable
• Can be crowded during peak season

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Castelo de São Jorge and Belém Tower
• Explore the Alfama district and Parque das Nações
• Take a tram ride to the top of the city
• Sample the local cuisine and wine

Holiday Getaways: Where to Go in December

For a festive holiday escape, these destinations offer plenty of holiday cheer. From Christmas markets to New Year’s Eve parties, each of these destinations is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is the perfect destination for a holiday getaway. This charming city is full of festive cheer, with Christmas markets, carols, and plenty of glühwein. Plus, you can explore the city’s iconic landmarks and sample some of the local cuisine.

Pros:

• Festive holiday atmosphere
• Iconic landmarks and attractions
• Plenty of Christmas markets and activities

Cons:

• Expensive flights and accommodation
• Can be crowded during peak season

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Explore the Christmas markets
• Take a scenic drive through the city
• Sample the local cuisine and wine

2. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is another great destination for a holiday getaway. This historic city is full of festive cheer, with Christmas markets, carol singers, and plenty of whisky. Plus, you can explore the city’s famous landmarks and sample some of the local cuisine.

Pros:

• Festive holiday atmosphere
• Iconic landmarks and attractions
• Plenty of Christmas markets and activities

Cons:

• Expensive flights and accommodation
• Can be crowded during peak season

Suggested Activities:

• Visit Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace
• Explore the Christmas markets
• Take a scenic walk through the city
• Sample the local whisky and cuisine

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the perfect destination for a holiday getaway. This picturesque city is full of festive cheer, with Christmas markets, carols, and plenty of gløgg. Plus, you can explore the city’s iconic landmarks and sample some of the local cuisine.