As the year comes to a close, December is a great time to plan a vacation to escape the cold winter weather, relax, and recharge before the new year begins. With the holiday season in full swing, many popular destinations around the world offer unique experiences, festive atmosphere, and exciting events that make them ideal to visit during this time. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in December, taking into account factors such as weather, cultural events, and tourist attractions.
Overview
December is a great time to visit destinations with mild winter weather, festive atmosphere, and exciting events. From tropical islands to winter wonderlands, there are plenty of amazing places to explore around the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure-filled trip, or a cultural experience, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll highlight the top destinations to visit in December, including popular cities, national parks, and beach resorts.
What to Expect
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the best places to visit in December, including:
- Tropical destinations with warm weather and festive atmosphere
- Winter wonderlands with snow-covered landscapes and holiday markets
- Cultural events and festivals around the world
- National parks and outdoor destinations for adventure seekers
- Beach resorts and island getaways for relaxation and rejuvenation
So, whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, we’ll help you find the perfect destination to visit in December.
Best Places to Visit in December
December is a great time to plan a vacation, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold winter weather or experience the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. From snowy wonderlands to tropical paradises, here are some of the best places to visit in December:
Snowy Destinations
If you love winter sports or just want to experience a white Christmas, these snowy destinations are perfect for you:
- Lapland, Finland: Experience the magic of the Arctic Circle, where you can see the Northern Lights, go dog sledding, and meet Santa Claus.
- Zermatt, Switzerland: This charming ski resort town offers some of the best skiing in the Alps, along with delicious Swiss cuisine and a festive atmosphere.
- Whistler, Canada: Located in British Columbia, Whistler is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, with over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain.
Tropical Getaways
If you’re looking to escape the cold weather, these tropical destinations are perfect for a warm winter getaway: (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Crete For Couples)
- Hawaii, USA: With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, Hawaii is a tropical paradise that’s perfect for a winter vacation.
- Cancun, Mexico: This popular resort town on the Caribbean coast of Mexico offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant party scene.
- Phuket, Thailand: Located in southern Thailand, Phuket is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and lively night markets.
Festive Cities
If you love the holiday season, these festive cities are a great place to visit in December:
- New York City, USA: Experience the magic of the holiday season in the Big Apple, where you can see the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skate in Central Park, and take in a holiday show on Broadway.
- Vienna, Austria: This beautiful European city is known for its festive markets, where you can buy handmade crafts, try traditional food and drink, and soak up the holiday atmosphere.
- Copenhagen, Denmark: Copenhagen is a winter wonderland in December, with its festive markets, ice skating rinks, and cozy cafes serving hot chocolate and mulled wine.
New Year’s Eve Destinations
If you want to ring in the new year in style, these destinations are known for their amazing New Year’s Eve celebrations:
- Sydney, Australia: Sydney is one of the first cities to ring in the new year, with its famous fireworks display over the Harbour Bridge.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rio’s Copacabana Beach is one of the largest New Year’s Eve parties in the world, with over 2 million people attending each year.
- Edinburgh, Scotland: Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebration is a three-day festival that includes live music, fireworks, and a massive street party.
Best Places for a Winter Road Trip
If you love road trips, December is a great time to explore some of the most scenic winter destinations in the US:
| Destination | Distance | Scenic Route |
|---|---|---|
| Asheville, North Carolina | 500 miles (800 km) | Blue Ridge Parkway |
| Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming | 1,000 miles (1,600 km) | Grand Teton National Park |
| Sedona, Arizona | 1,500 miles (2,400 km) | Route 66 |
Whether you’re looking for a snowy adventure, a tropical getaway, or a festive city break, there are plenty of amazing destinations to visit in December. So why not start planning your winter vacation today?
Conclusion
In conclusion, December is a wonderful time to explore new destinations, and we’ve narrowed down the best places to visit during this festive month. From the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland to the sun-kissed beaches of Thailand, we’ve covered a range of options to suit every taste and preference. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In England In April)
In this article, we discussed the top destinations to visit in December, including:
- New York City, USA, for its iconic Christmas markets and decorations
- Quebec City, Canada, for its winter wonderland atmosphere and festive events
- Zurich, Switzerland, for its picturesque snow-covered landscapes and Christmas markets
- Bangkok, Thailand, for its warm weather, street food, and cultural attractions
- Cancun, Mexico, for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and ancient Mayan ruins
- Vienna, Austria, for its grand palaces, opera houses, and festive Christmas markets
Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience, whether you’re looking for winter sports, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway. So, start planning your trip today and make the most of your December vacation!
We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for your next travel adventure. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Visit in December
What are the best winter destinations in December?
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience, some of the best destinations to visit in December include Lapland in Finland, the Swiss Alps, New York City, Vienna in Austria, and Banff National Park in Canada. These places offer a festive atmosphere, snow-covered landscapes, and a range of winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
Are there any warm destinations to visit in December?
Yes, if you’re looking to escape the cold winter weather, there are several warm destinations that are perfect for a December getaway. Some popular options include Hawaii, the Maldives, the Caribbean islands, Thailand, and South Africa. These places offer warm weather, beautiful beaches, and a range of outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
What are the best places to visit for Christmas markets and festivities?
If you’re looking to experience the magic of Christmas, some of the best places to visit in December include Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, which are famous for their festive Christmas markets. Other popular destinations for Christmas festivities include New York City, London, and Paris, which offer a range of holiday events, decorations, and activities. (See Also: Best Place To Visit In Mountains)
Are there any budget-friendly destinations to visit in December?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly destinations that are perfect for a December vacation. Some affordable options include Costa Rica, Mexico, and Southeast Asia, which offer a range of accommodation options, affordable food, and activities like hiking, surfing, and yoga. Additionally, consider visiting destinations during the shoulder season, which can offer better deals on flights and accommodations.
What are the best places to visit for New Year’s Eve celebrations?
If you’re looking to ring in the New Year in style, some of the best places to visit in December include Sydney in Australia, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, New York City in the USA, Edinburgh in Scotland, and Cape Town in South Africa. These destinations offer spectacular fireworks displays, live music, and a range of parties and events to celebrate the start of a new year.