As someone who loves traveling, December is one of my best times to seek out new adventures. So, if you’re like me, read this post to the end as I’ll be showing you the best places to visit in December in the world.
Due to the festive season, December is a peak season for most holiday destinations in the world. But if you can plan your vacation for the first half of December or book well in advance for the festive week, you would be fine.
So, don’t wait until the last week of December, start planning right away as you check out my list of the best places to visit in December.
The 8 Best Places to Visit in December in the World
From spectacular warm beaches, and snow-covered cities, to volcanic hiking trails, here are some of the best winter destinations in December.
1. Paris, France
Paris in December | Getty Images
First on my list of best places to visit in December is Paris, France. Paris is magical in December as the shops and streets light up with decorations and Christmas lights.
The cold also sets in with average temperatures ranging between 4°C to 8°C. So, you will need layered clothing, waterproof shoes and thick coats. An umbrella is also necessary as winter brings frequent rainfall.
During December in Paris, you can get airfares and hotel rates on a budget (except during Christmas and New Year week).
Although it’s cold in Paris, it doesn’t prevent outdoor activities. Start with the Christmas market booths from Place de la Concorde along Champs Elysee. Shop for food, hats, scarves, and even Christmas decorations. Then, proceed to see the Christmas trees inside Galeries Lafayette and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Notre Dame hosts many concerts, operas, and shows in the evenings. So, you can book tickets online for a beautiful experience.
Museum crowds are gone in December, so you can get museum passes and visit the Louvre and Musee D’Orsay for some historical adventure. My best experience is when it snows, as it is the perfect time to walk along the Seine River in the evenings while watching the twinkling of the Eiffel Tower.
2. Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
December is a perfect time to visit Vietnam. The temperature varies depending on its regions ranging from 15°C to 26°C. However, the weather is generally friendly throughout December. The holiday hordes do not troop in until late December. So you can plan to arrive in the first half of the month. Vietnam boasts of nature and magical scenery making it one of the best places to visit in December in the world.
Plan to stay at least five days in this magical city for a memorable experience. For nature lovers, I recommend the Mekong Delta to enjoy the best of nature and amazing weather. Afterward, take the ferries to explore islets and visit the floating markets. Enjoy a day-long relaxation on the beaches of Phu Quoc Island.
You’re not done until you have visited the ancient town of Hoi An and participated in the Full Moon Festival which features colorful lanterns lighting the air. You can also wander round the streets of Ho Chi Minh City and watch the Christmas decorations as the festive mood heightens.
3. Maldives – Best Places to Visit in December in the World
Top December Destinations in the World – Maldives
If you’re looking for warm weather destinations in December, Maldives is a brilliant choice. The country presents travelers with warm beaches of white sands and warm-clear waters.
As a foodie, the fresh seafood with infused South Asia and Middle East flavors are a favorite. But, you can indulge in gourmet food and pamper yourself with spa treatments at Dhaalu Atoll.
There are lots of fun things to do in Maldives. Visit the luxurious island resorts in North Mali Attoh and indulge in water sports such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and diving. You can also unwind on the pristine white-sand beaches.
In addition, encounter coral reefs and marine creatures including manta rays and whale sharks in Baa Attoh, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve island.
4. Sri Lanka
December in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the best places to visit in December because of the inviting weather. Temperatures tend to hover around 25°C to 30°C. There’s also occasional rainfall. December is a peak tourist season in the country, so accommodations, airfares, and crowds are higher.
The weather presents an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Sri Lanka temples are a lovely sight to behold with vibrant decorations and elaborate interiors. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple which features great architectural designs. Another temple you must visit is the oldest Hindu temple in the city called, Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Temple.
Another must-visit place is the tea plantations. Tea in Sri Lanka dates as far back as colonial times. So, head to the Hill region Haputale Mountains to see the stunning tea plantations. You can also participate in picking tea leaves with tea pickers. After such a chore, head to Dikwella Bay or Bentota Lagoon to relax on the warm beaches.
5. Bhutan
Best Countries to Visit in December – Bhutan
This South Asian country has become one of the best places to visit in December in the world. Although the temperature is cold in December averaging 4°C to 8°C, it doesn’t water-down the pleasant experience you’d have here.
December is an off-peak season in Bhutan, giving you a chance to explore the city without the crowds. However, you should book your travel well in advance to get your preferred accommodations and itinerary.
For fun things to do during your visit in December – trek to the Eastern Himalayas, explore monasteries such as Tiger’s Nest and Gangtey Monastery in Gangtey Village. Witness the Druk Wangyel Tshechu festival and watch the mask dances and colorful displays of the Bhutanese culture.
As the winter cold progresses, have relaxing moments in hot stone baths in Paro. Taste ema datsi, a Bhutanese traditional meal which is a mixture of chili and cheese.
6. Italy – Best Places to Visit in December in the World
Top Destinations in December – Italy
December is an ideal time to visit Italy. With an average temperature of 5°C to 13°C, Italy is a top destination to visit in December for cool weather. There is about nine hours of sunshine in the south and snow in the north. If you love skiing, Italy has some of the best ski slopes.
Come Christmas, the country lights up with decorations and lights. So, you can start by shopping in the holiday markets in Milan and Florence. Catch the costume parades on the streets of Naples Spaccanapoli. Head to Amalfi Coast for the Feast of the Seven Fishes. Also, have fun at the bonfire parties happening at the Sicily.
Taste my favorite mushroom dishes, roasted chestnut and chestnut flour cakes in Rome. Additionally, you can indulge in the harvest of olives and artichokes and savor sweet wines with these dishes.
Your December holiday in Italy is not complete until you experience the mountains. Head to the jagged snow-capped mountains along the Alps and Dolomites. Hike the volcanic trails of Mount Etna.
7. Chile
Best Countries to Visit in December – Chile
December marks the beginning of summer in Chile, making it one of the warmest destinations in December. The temperature provides an ideal time for water sports, sunbathing, and hiking.
The December holidays greet you with charming decorations and lively markets around the city. But, you should plan your trip to arrive in the first of the month which is usually less busy.
When visiting Chile, ensure to see the icy fjords of Patagonia and climb the Andean Mountains in Torres del Paine – a UNESCO-listed park. It is also a great time to spot some penguins, sea lions and guanaco.
Enjoy a cruise through the Magellanic fjords to Tierra del Fuego. On your way, you would come across captivating street arts and a maze of steep streets.
If you’re visiting in late December, head to the resort town of Viña del Mar offering great views of Valparaiso’s brilliant fireworks show from the beach. Finish off with some watersports like sailing, surfing, or kayaking on the beaches of Bahìa Inglesa.
8. South Africa – Best Places to Visit in December in Africa
December in South Africa
There are several great places to visit in Africa, South Africa is one of them. From wildlife to the mountains and beaches, South Africa is one of the best countries to visit in December. The weather is equally pleasant with average high temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C.
For me, South Africa is a place to go for wildlife excursions, because the country has some of the best game-views. So, enjoy a game drive and safari in Kruger National Park. You can also visit Kandwe for a private game reserve.
Apart from that, go for wine-tasting tours in the Winelands and don’t miss adventures like Bungee jumping. Take a trip to Lesedi Cultural Village to learn about South African culture.
Best Countries to Visit in December – Conclusion
These are my recommendations for the best places to visit in December and the best things to do. You can add to this list by using the comment section. If you’re traveling with kids, Italy, Paris, and Vietnam are some of the best places to visit with family in December.
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