Looking for the best places to travel in December? You’re not alone. Many think December only means frigid ski resorts and holiday crowds—but the world offers far more. From sun-drenched beaches to festive cultural escapes, December travel can be a season of surprises.
In this post, we explore 7 amazing December destinations—ranging from budget-friendly, warm-weather havens to cultural capitals. Expect tips on free experiences, local cuisine, adventure, and offbeat gems. Let’s dive into your ultimate December travel checklist!
Why Travel in December?
December is a sweet spot for travel. Many destinations offer pleasant weather, holiday markets, or off-season discounts, making it one of the cheapest times to travel. From tropical escapes to winter wonderlands, here’s our curated list of the best places to travel in December.
Top 10 Places to Travel in December
1. Maui, Hawaii, USA – 🌊 Tropical Paradise
Maui is one of the best places to travel in December in the USA for warm weather and stunning beaches. Snorkel in Molokini Crater, hike the lush Hana Highway trails, or relax on Wailea Beach. December brings mild temperatures (75–85°F) and fewer crowds before the holiday rush.
Entry Fees: Molokini snorkeling tours (~$150/person); Haleakalā National Park ($30/vehicle).
Timings: Beaches open 24/7; tours typically 7 AM–3 PM.
Pro Tip: Book snorkeling tours early in the month for better deals. Visit Haleakalā at sunrise for a breathtaking view.
2. Reykjavik, Iceland – ❄️ Northern Lights & Geothermal Pools
Chase the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, one of the best international places to travel in December. Soak in the Blue Lagoon, explore the Golden Circle, or wander the festive streets of this cozy capital. December’s long nights maximize aurora-viewing chances.
Entry Fees: Blue Lagoon (~$50–$80); Golden Circle tours (~$100).
Timings: Blue Lagoon 8 AM–10 PM; Northern Lights tours start ~8 PM.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers and book aurora tours with cancellation policies for cloudy nights.
3. Cape Town, South Africa – ☀️ Summer Vibes
Cape Town is a top pick for warm places to travel in December. Hike Table Mountain, visit Robben Island, or relax on Camps Bay Beach. Summer in the Southern Hemisphere means sunny days (70–80°F) and vibrant festivals.
Entry Fees: Table Mountain cable car (~$20); Robben Island (~$30).
Timings: Cable car 8 AM–7 PM; Robben Island ferries 9 AM–3 PM.
Pro Tip: Book cable car tickets online to skip lines. Visit Kirstenbosch Gardens for free summer concerts.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA – 🎷 Cultural Festivities
For a lively, affordable place to travel in December, New Orleans blends jazz, Creole cuisine, and holiday cheer. Stroll the French Quarter, join a ghost tour, or savor beignets at Café du Monde.
Entry Fees: Free to explore French Quarter; ghost tours (~$25).
Timings: Café du Monde open 24/7; tours vary.
Pro Tip: Catch free holiday events like the Christmas Bonfires on the Levee (check Louisiana Tourism).
5. Queenstown, New Zealand – 🏔️ Adventure Capital
Queenstown is a haven for adventure seekers among the best places to travel in December internationally. Try bungee jumping, hike the Remarkables, or cruise Lake Wakatipu. Summer in December brings long days and mild weather (60–75°F).
Entry Fees: Bungee jumping (~$150); Lake cruises (~$50).
Timings: Most activities 8 AM–6 PM.
Pro Tip: Book adventure activities through local operators like NZ Tourism for discounts.
6. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico – 🛕 Cultural Gem
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the cheapest places to travel in December. Wander cobblestone streets, visit Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, or join Las Posadas festivities. December weather is mild (60–75°F).
Entry Fees: Free for most historic sites; guided tours (~$20).
Timings: Churches open ~7 AM–7 PM.
Pro Tip: Try street tacos at local markets for an authentic, budget-friendly meal.
7. Banff, Canada – 🏂 Winter Wonderland
Banff is a top pick for snowy adventures among the best places to travel in December for warm weather seekers (well, warm in spirit!). Ski at Lake Louise, ice skate on frozen lakes, or soak in hot springs.
Entry Fees: Banff National Park ($10/day); ski passes (~$100/day).
Timings: Ski resorts 9 AM–4 PM; hot springs ~10 AM–10 PM.
Pro Tip: Rent gear in Calgary for cheaper rates before heading to Banff.
8. Siem Reap, Cambodia – 🛕 Ancient Wonders
Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat, is a budget-friendly pick for places to travel in December. Explore ancient temples, visit floating villages, or shop at Pub Street. December’s dry season (70–85°F) is ideal for temple hopping.
Entry Fees: Angkor Wat pass ($37/day).
Timings: Temples 5 AM–6 PM; Pub Street open late.
Pro Tip: Hire a local guide for hidden temple insights (check Cambodia Tourism).
9. Key West, Florida, USA – 🌴 Island Escape
Key West is one of the best places to travel in December in the USA for a laid-back vibe. Snorkel in the coral reefs, tour Hemingway’s home, or watch sunsets at Mallory Square. Expect warm weather (70–80°F).
Entry Fees: Hemingway Home (~$17); snorkeling tours (~$50).
Timings: Most attractions 9 AM–5 PM.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike to explore the island affordably.
10. Vienna, Austria – 🎄 Christmas Magic
Vienna’s Christmas markets make it one of the best international places to travel in December. Sip mulled wine, ice skate at Rathausplatz, or attend a classical concert. December’s charm comes with chilly weather (30–40°F).
Entry Fees: Free for markets; concerts (~$50–$100).
Timings: Markets 10 AM–10 PM; concerts vary.
Pro Tip: Visit smaller markets like Spittelberg for a local vibe.
Budget-Friendly & Free Activities
Traveling on a budget? Here are some cheap places to travel in December with free or low-cost experiences:
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Maui: Watch sunrise at Haleakalā (park fee applies) or relax at free public beaches like Kaanapali.
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Reykjavik: Join free walking tours of downtown or hike Esja Mountain for panoramic views.
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Cape Town: Stroll the V&A Waterfront or hike Lion’s Head for free.
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New Orleans: Enjoy free live music in the French Quarter or visit Jackson Square.
Pro Tip: Check local tourism sites for free museum days or festivals, like New Orleans’ French Quarter Fest.
Local Culture & Food to Try
December travel isn’t complete without tasting local flavors:
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Maui: Try poke bowls at local spots like Tamura’s or shave ice at Ululani’s.
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Cape Town: Savor bobotie (spiced meat dish) at Biesmiellah Restaurant or bunny chow at local markets.
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New Orleans: Indulge in gumbo or jambalaya at The Gumbo Shop.
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Siem Reap: Sample amok (coconut fish curry) at Khmer Kitchen.
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Vienna: Sip glühwein at Christmas markets or try schnitzel at Figlmüller.
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
For thrill-seekers, these destinations shine:
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Queenstown: Bungee jump at Kawarau Bridge or jet boat on Shotover River.
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Banff: Ski at Sunshine Village or hike Johnston Canyon’s frozen waterfalls (bring crampons).
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Maui: Surf at Ho’okipa Beach or hike the Pipiwai Trail.
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Cape Town: Paraglide off Signal Hill or kayak with penguins at Boulders Beach.
Safety Note: Check weather conditions for outdoor activities, especially in snowy Banff or rainy Siem Reap.
Best Photo Spots
Capture Instagram-worthy shots at:
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Maui: Road to Hana waterfalls.
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Reykjavik: Hallgrímskirkja church at sunset .
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Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace with Christmas lights.
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Key West: Southernmost Point Buoy.
Hidden Gems
Explore offbeat attractions:
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San Miguel de Allende: Visit El Charco del Ingenio, a serene botanical garden.
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Siem Reap: Discover Banteay Srei, a less-crowded temple with intricate carvings.
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Queenstown: Hike Ben Lomond Track for quieter, stunning views.
Local Insight: “Banteay Srei’s pink sandstone carvings are a must-see, especially at sunrise when it’s peaceful,” says local guide Sophea from Siem Reap.
Conclusion
December is a magical time to explore the best places to travel in December — from Maui’s sunny shores to Vienna’s twinkling markets. Our top 3 must-dos? Snorkel vibrant reefs in Maui, chase the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, and hike the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town.
FAQs
What are the best places to travel in December?
Our top picks include Maui, Reykjavik, Cape Town, and Vienna for their mix of warm weather, winter charm, and cultural experiences.
What are some cheap places to travel in December?
San Miguel de Allende, Siem Reap, and New Orleans offer budget-friendly attractions, free festivals, and affordable dining.
What are the best places to travel in December for warm weather?
Maui, Cape Town, and Key West provide sunny escapes with temperatures between 70–85°F.
Is December a good time to visit these destinations?
Yes! December offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and festive events in most of these locations.
How many days are enough to explore these places?
Plan 4–7 days per destination to cover major attractions, with 3–4 days for smaller spots like Key West or San Miguel.
Planning your winter getaway? Bookmark this guide and let us know your favorite picks in the comments!
About the Author: Jane Doe is a travel blogger with over 10 years of exploring 30+ countries. Follow us and read more at AThingsToDo.com.
Disclaimer: Information like timings and fees may change. Please check official websites like Hawaii Tourism or Iceland Tourism before planning.
Don’t forget to check out our previous blog on 21 Amazing Things to Do in Madikeri: Complete Travel Guide for more unforgettable travel inspiration.
Thank you for joining us on this sun-soaked journey!!!