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December is a prime month for travel enthusiasts, as millions take advantage of the holiday festivities and seasonal escapes. It ranks among the busiest times of the year for global tourism, with travelers seeking everything from snow-draped wonderlands to sun-drenched beaches. In this article, we'll guide you through some of the best places to visit in December for a memorable holiday experience.
Traveling in December comes with the following perks that make it uniquely appealing:
Here are fifteen incredible destinations to add to your December travel list. Whether you’re looking for snowy scenery, cultural festivities, or warm beaches, there’s something for everyone.
Vienna in December transforms into a winter wonderland straight out of a storybook, with its grand streets and squares decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. The city’s Christmas markets, especially the famous market at Rathausplatz, exude holiday spirit, offering handcrafted ornaments, delicious regional treats, and mulled wine served in steaming mugs.
Besides the markets, the capital of Austria hosts charming classical concerts, ballet performances, and candlelit church services — perfect for culture lovers. Cozy cafés and traditional coffee houses invite visitors to sip hot chocolate or Wiener Melange while watching the snow fall gently outside, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
To avoid high roaming charges when you're in Austria, get an Austria-specific eSIM beforehand. If you're new to eSIMs, learn more about the eSIM activation process in our guide.
See also: When is the best time to visit Austria?
Strasbourg is often called the "Capital of Christmas" for a reason. Its historic old town transforms into a fairy-tale landscape filled with twinkling lights, enchanting stalls, and the aroma of spiced mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The Strasbourg Christmas Market, with over 300 wooden stalls, offers handcrafted ornaments, Alsatian specialties, and unique gifts, making it a perfect place to soak up holiday magic.
The entire city, with its medieval half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, seems to come alive with festive cheer and tradition. Ice skating in Place de la Cathédrale, enjoying concerts, and tasting regional delicacies like tarte flambée make it a winter wonderland for all ages.
To avoid unreliable WiFi and roaming issues, it’s smart to get the best eSIM for France before your trip.
See also: When is the best time to visit France?
If you're dreaming of escaping the cold European winter, the Canary Islands present the perfect warm-weather retreat. Islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote enjoy balmy temperatures around 70°F, with plenty of sunshine to bask in.
Whether you want to unwind on sun-drenched beaches, explore dramatic volcanic landscapes from lunar-like craters, or hike through lush forests, the Canary Islands offer diverse natural beauty in a mild winter climate. It’s also a fantastic destination for water sports — waves are perfect for surfing, and clear waters make snorkeling and diving to see vibrant marine life an unforgettable experience.
Plus, December is a lively time on the islands with local festivals and Christmas markets, adding a cultural flavor to your vacation.
Looking to explore more hidden gems? Dive into our guide to the 10 most beautiful places in Spain or discover some lesser-known local secrets with our fun facts about Spain that you probably didn’t know.
For those seeking a truly wintery wonderland, Lapland in Finland is the ultimate destination. From the moment you arrive, you’re immersed in a festive scene straight from a fairy tale — snow-blanketed forests, shimmering Northern Lights dancing across the sky, and reindeer and huskies ready for adventure.
You can spend days riding reindeer-pulled sleighs, visiting Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi, or relaxing in cozy glass igloos that give you a front-row view of the celestial display. The cold conditions only add to the magic, creating an experience unlike any other.
To stay connected during your trip to Finland, explore the best Finland eSIM options and data SIM cards for Finland.
Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and offering over 200 kilometers of ski slopes, Zermatt is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike. The charming Swiss car-free village exudes alpine charm, with quaint chalets, cozy cafés serving hot chocolate, and craft shops filled with handmade souvenirs.
During December, the mountains come alive with festive events, including torchlight descents down the slopes, Christmas markets, and spectacular mountain-top dinners. For a more tranquil escape, you can take scenic cable cars up to see the Matterhorn in its snowy grandeur.
Looking to make the most of your trip? Check out our guide on the most beautiful places in Switzerland or follow our carefully curated Switzerland itinerary to ensure you see the highlights and hidden treasures along the way.
See also: When is the best time to visit Switzerland?
Kyoto in December provides a peaceful retreat into Japan’s deep-rooted cultural traditions, all wrapped in a calm winter atmosphere. The city’s historic temples and shrines, illuminated with lanterns and fairy lights, create a magical scene at night. It’s the perfect time to stroll through iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the bamboo forest in Arashiyama, all peaceful and less crowded outside the peak tourist season.
The weather brings a crisp edge to the air, and traditional seasonal dishes — like hot sake and yudofu (tofu hotpot) — are enjoyed in cozy surroundings. Markets around the city also showcase handcrafted decorations and local specialties, reflecting the festive preparations for the New Year.
To stay connected during your trip to the Land of The Rising Sun, check out the best Japan eSIM options and the best pocket WiFis for Japan.
See also: When is the best time to visit Japan?
December marks the start of the dry season in the Maldives, making it the perfect time for idyllic island escapes. The weather is reliably warm with clear blue skies, calm waters, and excellent visibility — ideal for snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Overwater villas, white sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts set the scene for ultimate relaxation. Many resorts host special holiday events, including festive dinners and cultural performances, adding a celebratory touch to your tranquil retreat.
To stay connected during your tropical vacation, explore the top Maldives eSIM options and choose the one that suits your needs best.
Few places rival New York City’s holiday magic in December. The city sparkles with millions of Christmas lights, towering decorated trees, and festive window displays in department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. Skating on the iconic rink at Rockefeller Center is a quintessential holiday activity, while the dazzling display of the giant Christmas tree makes for perfect photo ops.
The city’s neighborhoods come alive with holiday markets, street performances, and seasonal food stands offering warm pretzels, roasted chestnuts, and eggnog. Broadway shows, winter parades, and the excitement of New Year’s Eve in Times Square create unforgettable memories.
See also: When is the best time to visit New York?
December marks the start of summer in South Africa, making Cape Town a lively and beautiful December escape. The weather is warm, perfect for outdoor adventures — from hiking up Table Mountain to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Camps Bay. December also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife safaris in nearby reserves like Kruger National Park, where herds of elephants, lions, and rhinos come to waterholes to gather.
The city itself hosts lively summer festivals, craft markets, and African-inspired celebrations, adding to the festive vibe. Plus, the holiday season is a time for spectacular fireworks displays and beach barbecues. Whether you want to explore vineyards, see wildlife, or soak up the sun, Cape Town gives you a summer holiday experience like no other.
To avoid high roaming charges and stay connected, review our guide to the best eSIMs for South Africa or consider your options for the most convenient SIM cards.
Walking through Prague in December is like stepping into a fairy tale illuminated by soft winter light. The city's medieval architecture, including the Gothic spires, baroque churches, and charming cobbled streets, takes on an even more enchanting quality when blanketed in snow.
The Christmas markets here are renowned for their magical atmosphere, with stalls filled with hand-carved wooden toys, traditional Czech crafts, and warm treats like trdelník (cinnamon-sugar pastry). The aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds permeates the chilly air, inviting you to linger longer.
To stay reliably connected, you might want to get an eSIM for the Czech Republic. If you're planning to visit several European countries, consider exploring regional eSIMs for Europe.
In Australia, December signals the start of summer, and Sydney’s festive scene is truly unforgettable. The city buzzes with energy as crowds gather along the Harbour to watch the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks illuminate the night sky over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
During the day, there’s plenty to see and enjoy — relaxing on Bondi Beach, strolling along scenic coastal walks, or taking in the lively outdoor music festivals and street fairs that fill the city. Nearby natural attractions like the Blue Mountains and Taronga Zoo showcase the region’s stunning scenery and wildlife.
See also: 15 interesting facts about Australia
Dubai in December is a gleaming oasis of luxury, offering a perfect blend of modern marvels and holiday cheer. The city’s shopping malls are decked out with festive displays, and the annual Dubai Shopping Festival features fantastic deals, entertainment shows, and fireworks.
Temperatures hover around 71–73°F (about 22–23°C), making outdoor activities, beaches, and sightseeing enjoyable. You can marvel at the stunning Dubai Fountain shows, hit the lively markets, or relax on pristine beaches like JBR Beach. Many hotels host special festive dinners and events, creating a luxurious holiday experience.
To stay connected during your trip to Dubai, explore the top eSIM options for Dubai as well as prepaid SIM cards.
December in São Paulo is a celebration of art, fashion, and culture set against a tropical backdrop. The city’s streets come alive with colorful street art, music festivals, and lively markets selling everything from local crafts to delicious street food.
December is Brazil’s summer, so you can take advantage of warm weather, outdoor cafes, and beach trips to nearby Santos or Ilhabela. The city hosts spectacular holiday events, including festive parades, fireworks, and the São Paulo Fashion Week, showcasing Brazil’s innovative design scene.
Using a Brazil eSIM or a local SIM card can be a convenient way to stay connected without any stress in this beautiful country.
Mauritius in December is a tropical paradise where lush green mountains meet crystal-clear lagoons. The weather is perfect for lounging on white-sand beaches, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, or hiking through scenic national parks like Black River Gorges.
December also marks the start of the festive season, with beach parties, fireworks, and local events celebrating Mauritian culture. Many resorts host special Christmas dinners and New Year’s festivities, making it an ideal time for both relaxation and celebration.
If you're planning a trip to this tropical island, getting a Mauritius eSIM is a convenient and hassle-free way to ensure you have reliable internet access everywhere you go.
Copenhagen in December feels like stepping into a cozy winter fairy tale. The city’s streets sparkle with festive lights, and the famed Tivoli Gardens transform into a magical Christmas village showcasing enchanting markets, live entertainment, and outdoor rides.
You can stroll along Nyhavn’s colorful canal-side houses, sip mulled wine in cozy cafés, or skate on outdoor rinks under twinkling lights. The atmosphere is warm and happy, with holiday concerts, cultural events, and traditional Danish Christmas celebrations filling the city’s calendar.
To stay connected and enjoy your trip in Denmark without any hassle, consider choosing a local SIM card or a Denmark eSIM for reliable, easy internet access.
It really depends on what you’re after — if you want winter wonderlands, Lapland and Zermatt are ideal. Craving sun and sand? The Maldives or Mauritius are perfect choices. For a lively city experience filled with festive lights and events, Vienna and Prague stand out.
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but popular choices include Austria for Christmas markets, the Maldives for a tropical escape, or South Africa for summer safaris.
Europe is full of charming winter cities — think Vienna, Strasbourg, Copenhagen, and Prague — each offering festive markets, stunning lights, and cozy atmospheres.
The Maldives and Mauritius consistently rank well. They offer warm weather, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of resorts with luxury amenities.
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Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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