Where To Travel December 2024? Discover the best destinations for your December getaway with TRAVELS.EDU.VN, offering unique experiences, travel tips, and tailor-made packages. From winter wonderlands to tropical escapes, plan your ideal December trip. Consider exploring Christmas markets, winter sports destinations, or warm vacation spots for an unforgettable experience.
1. Maldives: An Indian Ocean Paradise
Imagine trading the usual holiday rush for serene, crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. December in the Maldives marks the start of the dry season, making it a perfect time to visit. Average temperatures range from the high 20s to low 30s Celsius, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. This is your chance to swap the stress of shopping for the bliss of exploring underwater wonders.
The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau is a great hotel to visit in December
Alt: Experience luxury at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau in December.
1.1. Unforgettable Experiences
The Maldives offers more than just beautiful beaches; it’s a haven for marine enthusiasts. Snorkeling or diving in the house reefs allows you to witness a kaleidoscope of coral and fish. Many resorts offer dolphin-spotting boat tours and manta ray swimming excursions, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
1.2. Festive Cheer
For a truly special holiday, consider staying at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort. In December, they often host top chefs, artists, and children’s entertainers, making the festive season extra special. It’s a chance to enjoy gourmet dining, creative workshops, and engaging activities for the whole family.
1.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Malé (MLE) average $1,200 – $2,000.
- Accommodation: Luxury resorts like the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau range from $800 – $2,000 per night.
- Activities: Snorkeling tours average $50 – $100, while diving excursions can range from $100 – $250.
2. The Dolomites, Italy: A Winter Wonderland
Nestled on the border of Italy and Austria, the Dolomites offer a unique blend of cultures and traditions. In December, this mountain region transforms into a winter wonderland, where German-style Christmas markets meet Italian hospitality.
The famous Christmas market in Bolzano, Italy, is one of the best places to visit in December
Alt: Enjoy the vibrant Christmas market in Bolzano, Italy, during December.
2.1. Festive Markets and Concerts
The biggest Christmas market in Italy is found in Bolzano, the regional capital. Here, you can explore stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, traditional treats, and festive decorations. For a quieter experience, visit the charming villages of Corvara and San Cassiano, where you can enjoy carol concerts and cozy taverns.
2.2. Skiing Adventures
The Dolomites are also a haven for ski enthusiasts. With well-groomed slopes and breathtaking views, Alta Badia is a popular ski area for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the snow.
2.3. Luxurious Stays
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider staying at Hotel La Perla in Corvara. This rustic, Michelin-starred restaurant is considered one of the best hotels in the world. If you’re lucky, the snow will be thick enough to allow runs on Alta Badia’s slopes.
2.4. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Bolzano (BZO) or nearby airports average $800 – $1,500.
- Accommodation: Hotel La Perla in Corvara ranges from $500 – $1,200 per night.
- Activities: Ski passes for Alta Badia average $60 – $80 per day.
3. Oaxaca, Mexico: Culture and Celebration
Oaxaca, Mexico, is a vibrant destination known for its rich culture, arts, and crafts. December is the driest and coolest time to visit, making it perfect for exploring the city’s museums and the surrounding mountains.
Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca, Mexico, one of the best places to visit in December
Alt: Explore the stunning petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca, Mexico, in December.
3.1. Artistic Exploration
The Museo Textil de Oaxaca is a must-visit, showcasing the region’s exquisite textiles. Wander through the city’s creative museums and discover the artistic spirit of Oaxaca. Don’t miss the chance to explore the petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua, one of only two such examples in the world.
3.2. Unique Festivities
For an offbeat celebration, plan your visit around La Noche de Rabanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23. Locals compete to create elaborate sculptures carved from oversized radishes, a truly unique and festive event.
3.3. Comfortable Stays
ArcoSodi Boutique Hotel is a modern and comfortable option, located a short hop from the zocalo (main square) where the Night of the Radishes event takes place. It’s the perfect base for exploring Oaxaca’s cultural attractions.
3.4. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Oaxaca (OAX) average $500 – $1,000.
- Accommodation: ArcoSodi Boutique Hotel ranges from $100 – $300 per night.
- Activities: Museum entry fees average $5 – $10, while tours to Hierve el Agua range from $30 – $60.
4. Berlin, Germany: A Festive Extravaganza
Berlin, Germany, is a city that embraces the holiday spirit with open arms. With more than 80 Christmas markets scattered throughout the city, you’re never far from the festive cheer. From traditional crafts to delicious treats, Berlin’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone.
Visitors take selfies at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Capture the holiday spirit with a visit to the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin during December.
4.1. Market Hopping
Explore the Christmas markets at Potsdamer Platz, where you can also enjoy ice-skating, or wander through the quaint streets of Spandau in the western suburbs. Sample glühwein and lebkuchen, and discover unique arts and crafts.
4.2. Festive Atmosphere
Base yourself near the Kurfürstendamm to see the boulevard splendidly lit up. Don’t miss the chance to raid the vast candy counter at KaDeWe, the queen of Berlin department stores.
4.3. Stylish Accommodations
Sir Savigny is a boutique hotel two blocks north of Kurfürstendamm, offering a sophisticated city bolt hole with a book-filled lounge and retro details in the rooms.
4.4. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Berlin (BER) average $600 – $1,200.
- Accommodation: Sir Savigny ranges from $150 – $400 per night.
- Activities: Christmas market visits are free, with costs for food, drinks, and gifts varying.
5. Nassau, Bahamas: Junkanoo Celebrations
Nassau, Bahamas, offers a unique blend of Caribbean culture and festive celebrations. End the year with a Junkanoo party, a vibrant street parade that matches any carnival in the islands to the south.
5.1. Junkanoo Festivities
Bahamian Junkanoo celebrations take place mainly on December 26 and New Year’s Day. Witness a masquerade of dazzling costumes to the sound of goombay drums. It’s a popular travel period with little rain, making it an ideal time to visit.
5.2. Luxurious Beach Stays
If you’re staying on New Providence island, largely taken up by Nassau, try the SLS at Baha Mar. It’s part of a complex of luxury beach hotels and is styled throughout for maximum Instagram appeal.
5.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Nassau (NAS) average $400 – $800.
- Accommodation: SLS at Baha Mar ranges from $300 – $700 per night.
- Activities: Junkanoo celebrations are free, with costs for food, drinks, and souvenirs varying.
6. Prague, Czech Republic: A Fairytale Christmas
Prague, Czech Republic, might have the best claim to look like a vintage Christmas card backdrop. Even without frosted roofs, this gothic-baroque medley looks atmospheric on short December days.
Prague Old Town in the Czech Republic, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Experience the charm of a Christmas market in Prague’s Old Town during December.
6.1. Festive Ambiance
During Advent, a lamplighter does the rounds on the famous Charles Bridge at about 4pm. While Christmas is a busy period, earlier in the month is a cheaper time to arrive for markets and ice rinks in historic squares. The Mala Strana quarter, in the shadow of Prague Castle, has just as much labyrinthine appeal as the old town.
6.2. Unique Accommodations
On a cobbled square in Mala Strana, you’ll find the Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa. It’s spread across a cluster of buildings — the oldest going back 500 years — and staying in one of its 46 rooms and suites feels like waking up on the set of an opera.
6.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Prague (PRG) average $500 – $1,000.
- Accommodation: Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa ranges from $200 – $500 per night.
- Activities: Christmas market visits are free, with costs for food, drinks, and gifts varying.
7. Luang Prabang, Laos: River Journeys and Temples
Luang Prabang, Laos, is a top destination for culture with its gilded temples and lines of saffron-robed Buddhist monks. At this time of year, there is very little rainfall but the rivers are still full, and temperatures are at their lowest — though still comfortably in the 20s Celsius.
Boats on the Mekong at Luang Prabang in Laos, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Take a scenic boat trip on the Mekong River at Luang Prabang, Laos, in December.
7.1. River Cruises
The one-time royal capital of Luang Prabang is a gateway to many river trips through the limestone cliff scenery of the north. River cruises are understandably popular.
7.2. Historic Stays
In the sleepy center of Unesco World Heritage listed Luang Prabang, 3 Nagas has plenty of historic appeal, with 15 rooms and suites decorated in dark wood, and bikes for guests to explore the city.
7.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Luang Prabang (LPQ) average $800 – $1,500.
- Accommodation: 3 Nagas ranges from $150 – $350 per night.
- Activities: River cruises range from $50 – $150 per day.
8. Norrbotten, Sweden: Northern Lights and Winter Marvels
Norrbotten, Sweden’s northernmost county, largely overlaps with the historic region of Lapland. The long nights are an advantage when spotting the northern lights.
The world heritage-listed district of Gammelstad in Lulea, Sweden, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Discover the charming red cottages of Gammelstad in Lulea, Sweden, during December.
8.1. Aurora Spotting
Anywhere north of the Arctic Circle has at least one day in December when you won’t see any sun. But even if this natural show proves elusive, Norrbotten has other winter marvels.
8.2. Unique Experiences
Near the town of Kiruna in the north is the original Icehotel at Jukkasjarvi, while on the outskirts of the southern city of Lulea is the Unesco World Heritage listed Gammelstad, its dinky red cottages now under pillowy snow.
8.3. Unusual Stays
One for the unusual stays bucket list: the Treehotel has eight boldly designed rooms perched high in a forest an hour’s drive north of Lulea.
8.4. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Lulea (LLA) average $700 – $1,400.
- Accommodation: Treehotel ranges from $400 – $800 per night.
- Activities: Northern Lights tours range from $100 – $300 per night.
9. Kerala, India: Tropical Beauty
Kerala, India, is the most lushly tropical state. The six-month rainy season that allows all this to happen lifts in December, so this month is an obvious (and in-demand) time to visit.
Children celebrating Christmas in Kerala, India, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Join the Christmas celebrations in Kerala, India, during December.
9.1. Backwater Cruises
Backwater cruises in a kettuvallam (houseboat) are a highlight in Kerala, and the city of Alappuzha is a starting point for many.
9.2. Serene Stays
Purity at Lake Vembanad overlooks the famously long lake outside Alappuzha, and offers Ayurvedic treatments and morning yoga classes in its serene grounds.
9.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Kochi (COK) average $600 – $1,200.
- Accommodation: Purity at Lake Vembanad ranges from $150 – $350 per night.
- Activities: Backwater cruises range from $50 – $150 per day.
10. Edinburgh, Scotland: Festive Lights and Hogmanay
Edinburgh, Scotland, offers much to raise the spirits during the 30 days of the month leading up to Hogmanay celebrations.
10.1. Christmas Lights
With the sun gone before 4pm, it’s up to the Christmas lights to brighten Edinburgh’s old stone facades; the most spectacular decorations are on George Street. Out of the centre, the Royal Botanic Garden and Dalkeith Country Park are also transformed into night-time wonderlands.
10.2. Christmas Markets
Back in the New Town, Christmas market stalls bring mulled wine and more to Princes Street Gardens.
10.3. Luxurious Stays
Set in two Victorian villas just outside the city-center bustle, the Roseate Edinburgh showcases seasonal Scottish produce and rare single malts.
10.4. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Edinburgh (EDI) average $500 – $1,000.
- Accommodation: The Roseate Edinburgh ranges from $200 – $500 per night.
- Activities: Christmas market visits are free, with costs for food, drinks, and gifts varying.
11. Vermont, US: New England Charm
Vermont, US, is a winter beauty, too. In the mountains of Vermont, around one in three December days are snowy, and the lead-up to the 25th sees many of the state’s small towns decorated to the nines.
A bridge on the Stowe Recreation Path in Stowe, Vermont, US, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Stroll across a snow-covered bridge on the Stowe Recreation Path in Vermont during December.
11.1. Winter Activities
Ski resorts such as Stowe usually start their season towards the end of November, and other winter activities away from the groomed runs include cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing and dog-sledding.
11.2. Historic Stays
Running since 1833, the Green Mountain Inn is set in a complex of historic buildings in the original center of Stowe, seven miles from the ski resort, and is filled with four-poster beds and other traditional touches.
11.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Burlington (BTV) average $300 – $600.
- Accommodation: Green Mountain Inn ranges from $150 – $350 per night.
- Activities: Ski passes range from $80 – $120 per day.
12. Cartagena, Colombia: Tropical Christmas Traditions
Cartagena, Colombia, offers tropical Christmas traditions at the start of the dry season. On the night of December 7, the festival of Dia de las Velitas sees towns and cities adorned with little candles and colored lanterns.
A driver with horse and carriage at Christmas in Cartagena, Colombia, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Ride in a horse-drawn carriage amidst the Christmas decorations in Cartagena, Colombia, in December.
12.1. Festive Celebrations
Centuries-old Cartagena is queen of the Caribbean coast, where the nationwide tapering off of the September-November rainy season is especially marked.
12.2. Colonial Charm
Graceful, antique-filled Hotel Casa del Arzobispado is a colonial-era original in the walled city of Cartagena, with a pool in the central patio.
12.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Cartagena (CTG) average $400 – $800.
- Accommodation: Hotel Casa del Arzobispado ranges from $200 – $400 per night.
- Activities: City tours range from $30 – $60 per person.
13. Dubai, UAE: Spectacles and Mild Days
Dubai, UAE, celebrates National Day on December 2 with fireworks, LED shows and displays of heritage. With the oppressive summer heat gone, and average temperatures in the 20s Celsius, this month is generally a more pleasant time to venture beyond air-conditioned spaces.
13.1. National Day Festivities
National Day on December 2 marks the independence of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, celebrated today with fireworks, LED shows and displays of heritage.
13.2. Modern Accommodations
Building traditional Arabian elements into a modern design, Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection is super-close to the action around the Dubai Mall and the world-record skyscraper Burj Khalifa.
13.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Dubai (DXB) average $700 – $1,400.
- Accommodation: Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection ranges from $200 – $400 per night.
- Activities: Burj Khalifa tickets range from $40 – $100 per person.
14. Rome, Italy: Timeless Delights
Rome, Italy, offers timeless delights in the Eternal City. Christmas and New Year are usually chilly (around 8C), though still a tad warmer than many other European cities in December.
A Christmas tree by the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Admire the Christmas tree next to the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, during December.
14.1. Festive Atmosphere
The Christmas tree custom is slowly catching on in Italy: there are splendid examples in St Peter’s Square (thanks originally to Polish Pope John Paul II) and outside the Colosseum. Rome certainly goes in for lavish nativity scenes, plus panettone and other seasonal sweets.
14.2. Cozy Stays
Behind an ivy-covered façade, the Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori is cozy and unapologetically indulgent, with velvet drapes and gilded mirrors.
14.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Rome (FCO) average $500 – $1,000.
- Accommodation: Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori ranges from $150 – $350 per night.
- Activities: Colosseum tickets range from $20 – $30 per person.
15. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil: Nature’s Might
Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil, is a year-round wonder, but December marks the start of its mightiest performance. Though the Argentine side accounts for the greatest share of the falls, and the best trails to their thunderous heart, the Brazilian portion has more spray-free viewpoints, helicopter rides, and a bigger choice of facilities in its gateway town.
15.1. Waterfall Views
The world’s largest waterfall system is a year-round wonder, but December marks the start of its mightiest performance.
15.2. Unique Stays
Of the two hotels right by the falls, the Belmond Hotel das Cataratas on the Brazilian side edges it for its country-estate style and chance to stroll to viewpoints ahead of the tour buses.
15.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Foz do Iguaçu (IGU) or Puerto Iguazú (IGR) average $800 – $1,600.
- Accommodation: Belmond Hotel das Cataratas ranges from $400 – $800 per night.
- Activities: Helicopter rides range from $150 – $300 per person.
16. Southern Alps, New Zealand: Summer Adventure
Southern Alps, New Zealand, offers summer adventure in epic scenery. Although Aoraki/Mount Cook and the other highest peaks should keep their crowns of snow, at middle altitudes the way is open for hikes such as the legendary Routeburn Track.
A visitor at Lake Tekapo on New Zealand
Alt: Admire the stunning views of Lake Tekapo in New Zealand during December.
16.1. Hiking and Outdoor Activities
The start of the southern hemisphere summer brings changes all across New Zealand, but nowhere more so than in the mountains of the South Island.
16.2. Sophisticated Stays
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel offers sophisticated rooms, some with views of the peaks of the Remarkables, a short walk from the center of Queenstown.
16.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Queenstown (ZQN) average $1,200 – $2,500.
- Accommodation: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel ranges from $250 – $500 per night.
- Activities: Hiking tours range from $50 – $150 per person.
17. Bratislava, Slovakia: Old-World Atmosphere
Bratislava, Slovakia, offers old-world atmosphere in an under-the-radar European capital. The square at the historic heart of the Slovak capital is less well known than its Prague old town equivalent, but visit in December and you’ll also find it cheerily decked out with Christmas market stalls.
The view of the old town from the tower of Bratislava
Alt: Enjoy the panoramic views of Bratislava’s old town from the city hall tower in December.
17.1. Christmas Markets
There’s no guarantee of white rooftops (snow-seekers should add on a trip to the peaks of Tatra National Park on the border with Poland), but this is definitely the time of year when typical dishes such as goulash most hit the spot.
17.2. Traditional Stays
A short stroll from the old town and the Danube riverside, Marrol’s Boutique Hotel has the vibe of a traditional club with a crackling fireplace and deep armchairs.
17.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Bratislava (BTS) average $500 – $1,000.
- Accommodation: Marrol’s Boutique Hotel ranges from $100 – $300 per night.
- Activities: Christmas market visits are free, with costs for food, drinks, and gifts varying.
18. Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines: Caribbean Bliss
Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, brings a uniquely Caribbean twist to Christmas. The shimmying starts on December 16 and the Nine Mornings Festival rewards early risers with dances and steel band concerts, and the all-important tradition of a sea bath.
18.1. Festive Celebrations
The islands of St Vincent and the Grenadines are a trusty ticket to winter sun, but also bring a uniquely Caribbean twist to Christmas.
18.2. Beachfront Stays
Bequia Beach Hotel gives right on to the crescent-shaped beach at Friendship Bay, and is decorated inside to evoke the era of steamer trunks, rattan armchairs and slowly twirling ceiling fans.
18.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to St. Vincent (SVD) average $600 – $1,200. A ferry to Bequia is then required.
- Accommodation: Bequia Beach Hotel ranges from $300 – $600 per night.
- Activities: Island tours range from $50 – $100 per person.
19. Cape Town, South Africa: Beaches and Nature
Cape Town, South Africa, offers beaches and nature with summer just beginning. It’s warm enough if you want to head to the coast, but also affords some cooler days if hiking up Table Mountain is on your agenda.
A kitesurfer amid the waves near Cape Town, South Africa, a great place to go on holiday in December
Alt: Enjoy kitesurfing near Cape Town, South Africa, during December.
19.1. Outdoor Adventures
With summer just beginning in South Africa, temperatures are at a manageable average high of 27C in Cape Town.
19.2. Modern Stays
Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront is moments from the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, and there’s a great collection of bars and restaurants in the area.
19.3. Planning Your Trip
- Flights: Round-trip flights from major US cities to Cape Town (CPT) average $800 – $1,600.
- Accommodation: Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront ranges from $150 – $350 per night.
- Activities: Table Mountain Cable Car tickets range from $20 – $30 per person.
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FAQs About December Travel Destinations
1. What are the best warm places to travel in December?
The Maldives, Nassau Bahamas, Cartagena Colombia, and Cape Town South Africa are excellent choices for warm weather in December.
2. Where can I experience the best Christmas markets in December?
Berlin Germany, Prague Czech Republic, and Bratislava Slovakia offer some of the best Christmas market experiences.
3. What are some unique cultural experiences for December travel?
Oaxaca Mexico with its Night of the Radishes, and Kerala India with its Christmas celebrations provide unique cultural experiences.
4. Where can I see the Northern Lights in December?
Norrbotten Sweden is an ideal location for viewing the Northern Lights in December.
5. What are the best destinations for outdoor activities in December?
The Southern Alps New Zealand, Vermont US, and Iguazu Falls Argentina/Brazil are great for outdoor activities.
6. How far in advance should I book my December travel?
It’s recommended to book at least 3-6 months in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
7. What is the average cost of a December vacation?
The average cost varies depending on the destination and length of stay, but you can expect to spend between $2,000 to $5,000 per person for a week-long trip.
8. What should I pack for a December vacation?
Pack according to your destination’s climate. For warm destinations, bring light clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen. For cold destinations, pack warm layers, a winter coat, gloves, and a hat.
9. Are there any travel advisories for December travel in 2024?
Check the latest travel advisories from the US Department of State and your destination’s local government before your trip.
10. What is the best way to find affordable flights and accommodations for December travel?
Use travel search engines, compare prices, and consider booking package deals to find affordable options. Also, sign up for email alerts to receive notifications about price drops.
Let travels.edu.vn help you plan an unforgettable December 2024 vacation tailored to your dreams. Contact us today and start your journey.
