10 Best Places to Visit in December for a Magical Holiday

best places to visit in december is your best chance to visit some of the world’s most amazing holiday destinations. Your perfect winter getaway awaits, whether you dream of snow-capped mountains with Christmas festivities or warm beaches with tropical breezes. This magical month lets you find destinations that become winter wonderlands and sunny escapes from the cold.

Your December adventure could include watching the Northern Lights in Finland or celebrating New Year’s Eve on Brazilian beaches. We’ll explore ten remarkable destinations that combine winter sports, festive events, and holiday attractions. London’s charming Christmas markets and Dubai’s winter sun are just two examples that make December a perfect time to travel. Each destination provides tailored experiences you won’t forget.

London, England

December brings magical winter charm to London as festive spirit fills every corner of the city. German-style Christmas markets pop up throughout the city starting mid-November and create an enchanting atmosphere that lasts throughout the holiday season.

Christmas-themed activities

Your festive experience starts at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, London’s premier winter festival. This magical carnival showcases the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink, circus shows and a delightful Bavarian village. Trafalgar Square features a magnificent 25-meter Christmas tree that Norway gifts annually, while carol singers perform free concerts around it.

Holiday attractions

The city dazzles visitors with its seasonal attractions:

• Somerset House ice rink showcases a breathtaking display of 80,000 fairy lights that dance around a majestic 40-foot Christmas tree
• Covent Garden transforms into a winter wonderland with its stunning 22-foot silver reindeer and a towering Christmas tree that glows with 30,000 lights
• Southbank Center Winter Market lines the Thames with festive riverside bars and cozy winter drinks

London’s major shopping districts shine brightly with stunning light displays, especially when you have Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Regent Street to explore. Liberty’s store stands out as a holiday highlight with its stunning Christmas decorations and eye-catching window displays.

Winter weather

London’s December weather typically looks like this:

Weather Aspect	Details
Average High	9°C (48°F)
Average Low	5°C (41°F)
Rainfall	10 days average
Daylight Hours	7 hours, 50 minutes (shortest day)

Overcast conditions dominate 72% of December days, which creates a cozy atmosphere that makes indoor attractions more appealing. The city’s mild maritime climate rarely brings snow in December, but you should be ready for sudden weather changes.

London’s spectacular Christmas lights and bright attractions shine beautifully against the backdrop of short winter days. Sunrise comes late at 8 AM and darkness falls early by 4:30 PM. The city’s world-class museums, theaters, and indoor venues offer plenty of activities whatever the chilly temperatures might bring.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Escape the winter chill and find paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands. December brings perfect tropical weather and vibrant cultural celebrations to this stunning destination.

Caribbean Climate

The Caribbean winter getaway promises perfect weather with daytime temperatures hovering at 84°F. Beautiful clear skies dominate the season, and 8 out of 10 days remain clear or have scattered clouds throughout the month. Gentle evening breezes, known as “Christmas Winds,” create an ideal environment that balances relaxation and outdoor activities.

Key Weather Metrics:

Aspect	Measurement
Daily High	84°F
Evening Low	74-76°F
Water Temperature	81°F
Clear Sky Days	80%

Beach Activities

These islands have stunning beaches that provide amazing experiences in a variety of settings. Visitors at Sapphire Beach can soar above turquoise waters while parasailing. Secret Harbor Beach and Coki Point Beach give snorkeling enthusiasts excellent spots to watch underwater life.

Popular beach activities include:

• Snorkeling with sea turtles and observing pufferfish
• Ocean tubing and parasailing adventures
• Beachfront dining and bar services
• Golf cart tours to secluded spots

Hull Bay provides a more relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing. Many other beaches come equipped with changing areas, showers, and full-service bars.

Crucian Christmas Festival

St. Croix lights up with the spectacular Crucian Christmas Festival from December 26, 2024, through January 4, 2025. This cherished celebration weaves modern festivities with rich traditions that stretch back to the 1800s.

Downtown Frederiksted’s Festival Village transforms into a vibrant celebration hub. Visitors can experience the pulsating steel pan rhythms and soca beats that fill the air. The aroma of local delicacies wafts through the village as vendors serve fresh johnny cakes and salt fish pate. Artists display their handmade crafts and colorful madras clothing while cultural performances and pageants showcase the island’s heritage.

The festival concludes with two magnificent parades. Children take center stage on January 3 with their own parade. The grand finale happens on January 4 with the adults’ parade and dazzling fireworks display. Participants create an unforgettable spectacle in their stunning costumes that shimmer with bright feathers and sequins, bringing Caribbean culture and tradition to life.

French Alps

The majestic French Alps in southeastern France become a winter wonderland each December. Visitors experience an enchanting mix of world-class skiing and festive charm. This legendary mountain range that hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924 continues to fascinate travelers with its pristine slopes and magical holiday spirit.

Ski Resorts

Europe’s most prestigious ski destinations await your alpine adventure. Alpe d’Huez, known as the “Island in the Sun,” welcomes visitors with an impressive 300 sunny days annually. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc features the country’s highest cable car that soars 12,600 feet into the sky. Skiers can enjoy a range of experiences throughout the region:

Resort	Known For	Elevation
Alpe d’Huez	Sarenne (16km longest run)	6,000+ feet
Courchevel	100+ ski runs	Various levels
Les Trois Vallées	World’s largest linked ski area	Multiple elevations

Christmas Markets

Alpine villages transform into magical Christmas markets that twinkle against snowy backdrops. Megève’s holiday charm will let you:

• A magnificent Christmas tree lights up the town center from December 3rd until the year ends
• Traditional market stalls showcase local food specialties
• Holiday activities feature reindeer visits and igloo aperitifs
• December brings festive parades and concerts

Winter Scenery

The French Alps showcase breathtaking panoramas straight out of a winter fairy tale. Spectacular 360° views await visitors at the Grandes Platières summit (2,500m). Mont Blanc, Aravis, Belledonne, and Jura mountain ranges create an awe-inspiring vista that stretches endlessly.

Winter activities abound beyond the ski slopes in this natural wonderland. Val d’Arly’s electric moon bikes offer thrilling adventures, while glacier’s ice caves beckon explorers. Thrill-seekers can soar above snow-covered peaks through paragliding or experience the rush of ski-joering.

Mountain slopes buzz with dozens of restaurants and bars that define the après-ski experience. Cozy candlelit restaurants serve traditional Savoyard cuisine and create unforgettable evenings. Guests can savor authentic Alpine specialties while mountain vistas provide a magnificent backdrop.

Lapland, Finland

Finnish Lapland lies within the Arctic Circle and creates a magical world of enchanting experiences. The northernmost region blends winter wonders with festive charm that makes it a captivating destination for December adventures.

Arctic experiences

Lapland’s winter wonderland offers countless opportunities for memorable adventures. Pristine snow-covered forests provide the perfect backdrop that makes husky sledding and reindeer-sledding truly exciting. Adventure seekers can enjoy these authentic Arctic activities:

• Ice fishing in frozen lakes
• Post-sauna dip in an ice hole (traditional Finnish experience)
• Snowmobile safaris through frost-covered landscapes
• Cross-country skiing across untouched terrain

Santa Claus Village

Rovaniemi, Santa Claus’s official hometown, lets you experience the magical Santa Claus Village where Christmas dreams come alive. This enchanting place gives you a rare chance to cross the Arctic Circle that runs right through the village’s central square. Here’s what makes your visit special:

Santa Claus himself welcomes visitors every day of the year, so you can plan your trip anytime. The village’s workshop buzzes with busy gift-making elves, and you can send postcards from Santa’s official Post Office.

Northern Lights viewing

No Arctic adventure feels complete without the magical Northern Lights. Lapland sits perfectly in the “northern lights belt” and ranks among Europe’s best spots to witness this aurora spectacle.

Best viewing opportunities:

Month	Aurora Activity
December-March	Peak viewing season
Viewing Hours	10 PM to 2 AM
Annual Sightings	Approximately 200 nights

The best aurora sightings happen far from city lights in Lapland’s pristine wilderness. While this natural phenomenon occurs throughout the year, darkness makes it visible. Clear skies and minimal light pollution near your accommodation will help you witness this spectacular show.

Finnish locals named this dazzling display “revontulet” which means ‘fox fires’. This name comes from an enchanting myth about an Arctic fox that races through snowy landscapes and sends sparks flying into the night sky.

Bahamas

The Bahamas is a paradise during December with perfect weather and vibrant cultural celebrations. More than 700 islands make up this stunning archipelago that gives you a chance to escape winter’s chill. Natural beauty blends perfectly with rich traditions across these beautiful islands.

Tropical Climate

December brings pleasant weather with temperatures between 74°F to 85°F (23-29°C). The ocean stays warm at 25°C and the pristine waters create perfect conditions for swimming and water activities. A December trip offers excellent weather conditions.

Weather Aspect	Details
Average Daytime High	26°C
[Rainfall	44mm across 12 days](link_1)
Ocean Temperature	25°C
Sunshine Hours	7 hours daily

Beach Activities

This archipelago offers crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches that become your perfect playground. Here’s what you can do:

• Race through waves on jet skis and soar high while parasailing
• Learn about the world’s third-largest barrier reef
• Take yacht trips to spot amazing marine life
• Play golf with breathtaking ocean views

Long Island’s western shore features beautiful white sand beaches next to sapphire waters. The eastern shore’s dramatic cliffs make perfect spots for scuba diving and sailing adventures.

Junkanoo Festival

December visitors can experience the spectacular Junkanoo festival, a cultural celebration that runs deep in Bahamian tradition. The carnival parade comes alive on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day as streets burst with energy from midnight until sunrise.

Performers wear stunning costumes and masks while rhythmic beats fill the air. Competing groups called ‘rushes’ vie to become the Best Group. They showcase tall headdresses with feathers and sequins that tell unique stories of Bahamian culture and history.

Nassau offers the best Junkanoo experience where parades move through Bay Street and Shirley Street and end at Rawson’s Square. The celebration includes:

• Traditional goat skin drums and brass instruments
• Colorful bodysuits and artistic costumes
• Music that blends African, Caribbean, and European influences
• Street parties and cultural performances

Visitors can learn more about this cultural tradition at the Junkanoo Museum, which opened at the Nassau Cruise Port, or explore the Educulture Junkanoo Museum.

New York City, USA

The Big Apple becomes a magical holiday destination in December. Twinkling lights and festive cheer make memories that last forever.

Holiday decorations

New York City’s winter experience offers spectacular holiday displays at every corner. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree stands as the city’s most iconic decoration that features an impressive Swarovski star at its crown. Over 30,000 lights illuminate the surrounding area and create a magical atmosphere.

Notable holiday displays include:

• The famous Cartier building wrapped in a giant red bow
• Saks Fifth Avenue’s 10-story holiday light show
• The “Believe” sign at Macy’s Herald Square
• Radio City Music Hall’s giant red Christmas bulbs

Christmas markets

European-style holiday markets change the city into a magical winter shopping paradise. Bryant Park’s Winter Village shines as the crown jewel with [more than 100 vendors selling crafts from glass-enclosed stalls]. This market is a chance to experience:

Market Feature	Details
Operating Hours	11 AM – 8 PM (Mon-Fri)
Weekend Hours	10 AM – 8 PM
Ice Skating	8 AM – 10 PM
Season Duration	October – Early January

Your festive shopping adventure continues at the Union Square Holiday Market where [approximately 185 stalls] showcase everything from handcrafted jewelry to local artisanal foods.

New Year’s Eve celebration

Times Square’s world-famous ball drop attracts millions and marks the peak of your year-end celebration. The festivities offer multiple venues and experiences, with [prices starting from $179 for all-access passes].

Here are some amazing spots to think about for your celebration:

• The Dream Downtown Hotel’s Gallery celebration
• Rooftop parties at locations like Magic Hour
• Harbor cruise celebrations with fireworks views

Holiday season comes with extra benefits as [popular attractions like museums and observation decks become blissfully quieter, while hotels and airfare become more affordable]. Broadway shows become easily accessible without the usual sold-out performances and high prices during this magical time of year.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s medieval charm comes alive when winter blankets this historic city in enchantment. Your December experience in the Czech capital reveals a magical scene where Gothic spires meet twinkling lights under a possible snow-dusted sky.

Christmas markets

Prague’s enchanting Christmas markets will transform your festive adventure from November 30, 2024, through January 6, 2025. The city’s most spectacular market lights up the Old Town Square with a brilliant Christmas tree and wooden stalls adorned with garland and lights.

These markets showcase traditional Czech delights:

• Trdelníks (chimney cakes)
• Hot mulled wine (svařák)
• Grilled sausages (klobása)
• Traditional Czech pastries

Wenceslas Square hosts another major market that features souvenir stalls and a charming ice-skating rink. The Náměstí Míru market provides a more authentic experience with fewer tourists and genuine local gifts.

Winter atmosphere

Prague radiates a unique character in December as temperatures stay between 0°C to 2°C. The city’s winter magic comes alive through:

Weather Aspect	Details
Daylight Hours	Sunset around 4:30 PM
Snow Likelihood	Highest in January
Temperature Range	-4°C to 2°C

Countless Christmas lights brighten the brief winter days and create a cozy atmosphere. Visitors can discover the city’s historic streets in this magical setting. Snow might not always fall in December, but it reshapes Prague’s medieval architecture into a breathtaking winter wonderland.

Historical architecture

Prague reveals centuries of architectural mastery during winter wanderings. The Historic Center spans 866 hectares and stands as the largest historic city center on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The city’s impressive architectural styles range from Gothic treasures like the Týn Church to St. Nicholas Cathedral’s baroque splendor. Built in 1868, the Spanish Synagogue showcases the city’s Moorish-influenced architecture, while the Municipal House (Obecní Dům) stands as a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design.

Petrin Hill offers spectacular winter views with panoramic vistas of the snow-dusted city. The 14th-century Charles Bridge transforms into an enchanting spot during quiet winter evenings and provides perfect photo opportunities of Prague’s iconic skyline.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio welcomes you with its vibrant summer season this December. The city’s tropical charm offers a perfect escape from the northern hemisphere’s winter chill. Sunshine, festivities, and beach culture blend perfectly in Brazil’s most iconic destination.

Summer weather

Rio welcomes December visitors with pleasant temperatures between [72°F to 84°F (22-29°C)]. The weather sets up perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Pack an umbrella since [December typically sees about 18 rainy days], with scattered showers in the afternoon.

Weather Overview:

Aspect	Details
Average High	84°F (29°C)
Average Low	72°F (22°C)
Humidity	79%
Water Temperature	75°F (24°C)

New Year’s Eve celebration

A legendary Reveillon celebration at Copacabana Beach stands out as the highlight of any December visit. This spectacular event [draws about two million revelers] and ranks among the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve parties. The celebration features:

• White clothing that represents peace and good fortune
• [Breathtaking fireworks that light up the sky from cruise ships along the coast]
• Live music that fills multiple stages
• Rich cultural traditions like jumping seven waves that bring luck

Beach activities

Rio’s beach experience goes beyond the famous Copacabana. The city’s coastline welcomes every type of beach enthusiast with unique experiences. [Barra da Tijuca beach stands out with its massive white-capped waves and bustling environment], making it ideal for relaxation and water sports.

Praia do Grumari awaits you with its tranquil atmosphere, [a natural paradise on the western edge of Rio]. This protected area lets you escape the urban beaches while surrounding greenery and crashing waves create a peaceful backdrop for your day.

Beach safety matters, so here are key tips:

• Keep your belongings close
• Stay near posted lifeguard stations
• Pick [areas between Posto 2 and 3 in Copacabana or between 7 and 8 in Ipanema for a lively atmosphere]
• Pack extra cash and use a fanny pack to secure valuables

The adventures continue beyond the sand. You can head over to the [lush rainforest of Tijuca National Park, where the Cascatinha Waterfall offers a refreshing retreat]. Romance seekers will love [a sunset cruise along the bay, taking in Rio’s stunning coastline] as daylight fades.

Pro tip: English isn’t accessible to more people here, but simple Portuguese phrases will improve your experience. [UBER provides a reliable and safe transportation option] as you discover the city’s attractions.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown stands proudly as the adventure capital of the world. This remarkable destination offers a unique December holiday that combines summer adventures with breathtaking alpine scenery. Visitors can enjoy an exceptional time in New Zealand’s most vibrant destination with long, sunny days [temperatures reaching between 20°C and 30°C during summer months].

Summer activities

Queenstown’s vibrant summer season begins in December with daylight lasting from 5 AM until 10 PM. These long days provide plenty of opportunities to explore the region’s many attractions. The welcoming weather sets the stage for:

• Lake activities on Whakatipu’s crystal waters
• Wine tours through luscious green vineyards
• Scenic bike rides along Kelvin Peninsula Track
• Peaceful picnics at Moke Lake

Adventure sports

Queenstown lives up to its reputation as the world’s adventure capital with thrilling activities that get your adrenaline pumping. [96% of travelers rate the extreme sports experiences positively]. The city offers exciting options such as:

Activity	Traveler Rating
Rafting	[100% positive reviews]
Ziplining	[96% satisfaction rate]
Helicopter Tours	[98% recommendation rate]

The Hydro Attack, a shark-like watercraft, provides an exciting rush as it reaches speeds of [80km per hour] on Lake Wakatipu. Families can enjoy the Queenstown Luge, which lets you race down Bob’s Peak while taking in spectacular views of the Remarkables mountain range.

Scenic landscapes

Queenstown’s breathtaking natural beauty reveals itself in full summer glory during December visits. The [Remarkables mountain range, one of only two mountain ranges globally that run directly north to south], creates a stunning backdrop for your adventures. Bennett’s Bluff lookout presents a spectacular panorama that includes:

• Mt Alfred’s majestic peaks
• Pig and Pigeon Islands
• Richardson and Humboldt mountain ranges
• The northern tip of Lake Wakatipu

The [scenic drive to Paradise from Glenorchy] creates an unforgettable experience with a perfectly positioned bench that showcases incredible views of Mt Earnslaw. Kelvin Heights peninsula offers a different view, and its lakeside trails make perfect spots for morning walks or sunset photography sessions.

A helicopter ride with alpine landings lifts your scenic experience and gives you more time to absorb the magnificent views. The historic TSS Earnslaw, a century-old coal-fired steamship, sails picturesque cruises across Lake Wakatipu and combines historical charm with natural splendor.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai shines brightest in December with perfect winter weather and holiday spirit. The city welcomes you to experience amazing shopping and thrilling desert adventures in this dazzling metropolis.

Winter sun

Dubai welcomes you this December with perfect weather. The temperatures create an amazing setting that lets you explore the outdoors. The weather stands out compared to other winter destinations:

Weather Aspect	Details
Daytime Temperature	26°C
Evening Temperature	14°C
Rainfall	Minimal
Sunshine Hours	7-8 hours daily

The beautiful weather sets the stage for endless outdoor activities. You can relax at the beach or wander through the city streets comfortably. The mild temperatures make this the best time to visit famous spots like Jumeirah Beach. You can soak up the sun while admiring the stunning Burj Al Arab’s views.

Shopping festivals

A spectacular Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) awaits during your winter visit from December 6, 2024, to January 12, 2025. This 38-day celebration turns Dubai into a vibrant hub of excitement with:

• Over 800 participating global and local brands
• Nightly firework displays at Dubai Creek, Global Village, and Al Seef
• Incredible drone shows at The Beach, JBR, and Bluewaters Island
• Weekend parades featuring international performers

The festival offers much more than shopping and illustrates Dubai’s rich cultural diversity. You’ll find traditional souks next to modern malls, and the Gold Souk handles approximately 20% of the world’s gold trade. The Dubai Mall stands as a festive centerpiece with its 1,200 stores and hosts daily workshops and exhibitions.

Desert experiences

Dubai’s luxurious desert adventures will make your December trip unforgettable. The mild winter weather sets up the perfect backdrop to explore the desert. You’ll find several amazing experiences waiting for you:

Hero Balloon Flights will take you on a breathtaking morning adventure that includes:

• Stunning sunrise views over Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve from 3,000 feet
• A gourmet breakfast created by a Michelin-starred chef
• Luxury SUV transfers and welcome refreshments

Arabian Adventures safari gives you an amazing overnight experience at AED 1,790. You’ll enjoy:

• Heart-pumping dune drives
• A traditional BBQ dinner under starlit skies
• Night safari walks
• Premium drinks package

Sonara Camp brings you a fresh take on desert dining, while Terra Solis gives you a chance to try glamping with rooms starting at AED 1,040. Night owls and space lovers will love the private night safaris that blend nocturnal eco-walks with stargazing sessions. These adventures go together with one another perfectly with authentic Emirati food.

The Global Village adds extra magic to your desert adventure. It showcases more than 50 countries through their culture, shows, and food. You can watch traditional Emirati artists at work, taste foods from around the world, and catch amazing firework shows. This makes it a perfect spot to spend your December evenings.

Conclusion

December is an amazing month to see the world. You can experience everything from Arctic adventures under the Northern Lights to sunny celebrations on tropical beaches. These ten places show what makes this month special. You can watch fireworks light up Rio’s Copacabana Beach, check out London’s festive markets, or meet Santa Claus in Finnish Lapland. Each place has its own special charm with unique cultural celebrations, natural wonders, and seasonal activities that make December a perfect time to travel.

These spots prove winter trips are not just about holiday traditions. Snow lovers will find their paradise in the French Alps, while sun-seekers can enjoy perfect weather in the Bahamas or Dubai. The mix of holiday spirit, rich culture, and natural beauty in these places creates unforgettable December experiences for everyone. Each destination gives you different ways to end the year memorably – whether you’re gazing at the Arctic sky or relaxing on sunny beaches.

FAQs

What are some of the best destinations to visit in December for warm weather? In December, some of the top warm-weather destinations include Cancun with an average temperature of 25°C, Barbados at 27°C, Cape Verde at 24°C, Cape Town also at 25°C, the Dominican Republic, and Sydney, Australia.

Where in the US is the warmest place to visit in December? Key West, Florida is typically the warmest place in the US during December. It offers mild temperatures usually in the 70s and 80s, clear blue waters, and a relaxed island atmosphere, making it perfect for beach activities and holiday celebrations.

Which locations are considered the most magical for spending Christmas? Some of the world’s most magical Christmas destinations include Vienna, Austria; Prague, Czech Republic; Strasbourg, France; Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland; Woodstock, Vermont; Nuremberg, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; and Bruges, Belgium.

What are the most beautiful places to spend Christmas? The prettiest places to celebrate Christmas include New York City, USA; London, UK; Copenhagen, Denmark; Lapland, Finland; Edinburgh, Scotland; Phuket, Thailand; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Caracas, Venezuela.

What are some travel options for a city with minimal snow, good food, and historical attractions? For a city experience with little snow, good food, historical sites, and nearby national parks for exploration, consider destinations like Arizona or Florida. Other notable mentions for future trips include Puerto Rico, Chicago, New York, Washington D.C., Savannah and Charleston, New Orleans, and the cities of San Diego and Los Angeles, as well as Hawaii.