Discover the 10 best places to visit in December. Whether you seek urban adventures, warm beach escapes, or snowy winter wonders, find the perfect December getaway with travel tips and destination highlights.
As winter approaches, December travel offers a unique range of possibilities, from tropical beach escapes and winter wonderlands to culturally rich cities brimming with holiday cheer. Choosing the best places to visit in December can shape your entire experience, whether you crave bustling urban life, scenic coastlines, or snow-covered adventures. In this guide, Asia Legend Travel highlights a variety of top destinations that promise unforgettable memories and amazing experiences across the globe.
Best Places to Visit in December for Urban Adventures
For those who thrive on the energy of city life, these vibrant cities are perfect in December. Cool temperatures, festive decorations, and cultural events create an ideal atmosphere for exploring some of the best places to visit in December for urban experiences.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Often called Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant urban center that seamlessly blends historic charm with bustling modernity. December brings milder weather to the city, making it perfect for exploring the city’s distinctive sights and indulging in its lively street culture on a Ho Chi Minh City day trip. Here are three must-experience specialties that capture the essence of Ho Chi Minh City, making it one of the best places to visit in December:
1. Historic Architecture at Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office
The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning remnant of French colonial architecture, stands proudly in the heart of the city. Built in the late 19th century, this red-brick basilica is an essential stop for both history and architecture enthusiasts. Just across the square, the Central Post Office offers another masterpiece of the colonial era, with its vaulted ceilings, detailed woodwork, and intricate tile mosaics. Both sites reflect the fascinating blend of Vietnamese culture and French influence, transporting visitors back in time while offering picturesque settings for photos.
2. The Bustling Atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market
A visit to Ben Thanh Market offers a full sensory experience. As one of the city’s oldest and most bustling markets, it’s packed with vendors selling everything from colorful textiles and handcrafted souvenirs to exotic spices and fresh produce. The market is also a haven for food lovers, with street food stalls that serve local favorites like banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancakes) and hu tieu (one of the flavorful Vietnamese soups that is made from pork and shrimp).
3. A Taste of Vietnam’s Coffee Culture at Local Cafés
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its rich coffee culture, and December’s cooler weather is an ideal time to relax at one of its many traditional cafés. Savor a classic ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) or ca phe sua nong (hot) as you watch the lively street scenes unfold. While indulgent, it’s worth noting that a typical Vietnamese iced coffee calories count can range from 130 to 300 depending on the size and ingredients. Popular cafes such as The Workshop or L’Usine offer unique atmospheres, combining the charm of old Saigon with a modern twist. Vietnamese coffee is robust and flavorful, often enjoyed slowly in social gatherings, giving travelers a true taste of local life.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Ho Chi Minh City during December’s holiday season as part of your Vietnam tour, the city shines with decorations and festive events leading up to Christmas and New Year. The neighborhoods of District 1, particularly around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, come alive with Christmas lights and bustling night markets, offering tourists a chance to experience Vietnamese-style holiday celebrations. This is also an excellent time to sample authentic Vietnamese street food, from steaming bowls of pho and crispy banh mi to refreshing sugar cane juice and a variety of tropical fruits that bring the city’s flavor to life.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok in December is one of the best places to visit in December for those who love urban energy, culture, and history. The cooler, drier weather is perfect for visiting the city’s many temples, markets, and nightlife hubs.
Start your trip with Wat Arun on the Chao Phraya River, then visit Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace. For shopping enthusiasts, Bangkok’s night markets, such as Asiatique and Chatuchak, offer a wealth of unique souvenirs, clothing, and street food. December also features several festive events and light displays, making it an exciting month for travelers.
Salzburg, Austria
A charming Austrian city, Salzburg is one of the best places to visit in December Europe for a truly magical holiday season experience. Famous for being the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg captivates visitors with its historic architecture, Christmas markets, and festive concerts.
The city’s Christkindlmarkt, held in the central square, offers local treats, gluhwein (mulled wine), and unique holiday souvenirs. Explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress, admire the Salzburg Cathedral, and stroll through Mirabell Palace’s gardens, all while enjoying the holiday charm of one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.
Best Places to Visit in December for Beach Escapes
Looking to escape the winter cold? These beach destinations of the best places to visit in December in world offer sunshine, warm waters, and the perfect December retreat.
The Maldives
The Maldives is synonymous with luxury and natural beauty, boasting over 1,000 islands with clear blue lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and soft white sand beaches. December’s dry season makes it one of the best places to travel in December for warm weather and water activities.
Whether you want to snorkel, scuba dive, or simply relax in a beachfront villa, the Maldives offers unparalleled beauty and relaxation. Many resorts also offer festive events for the holidays, making it an ideal beach destination for December.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
In December, Costa Rica’s dry season is just beginning, making Tamarindo a perfect getaway for surfers, beach lovers, and eco-tourists. This laid-back town on the Pacific coast is known for its beautiful beaches, amazing sunsets, and biodiversity.
Spend your days on the beach, surfing the waves, or exploring nearby national parks like Marino Las Baulas, where you can see nesting sea turtles. Tamarindo is also affordable, making it one of the best places to travel in December on a budget, especially for nature lovers.
Miami, Florida
December is an ideal time to visit Miami, with its pleasant weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Miami is known for its Art Deco architecture, palm-lined beaches, and exciting events. South Beach is a must-visit, offering everything from high-end shopping to excellent restaurants and lively clubs.
In December, Miami hosts Art Basel, a globally renowned art festival that attracts celebrities and art enthusiasts, transforming the city into a cultural hotspot. This unique blend of art and beach life makes Miami one of the best places to visit in December for couples.
Best Places to Visit in December for Winter Wonders
If you’re dreaming of snow, cozy fires, and unique winter activities, these best places to visit in December offer the ultimate winter escape.
Lapland, Finland
For a magical winter adventure, Lapland is hard to beat. Known for its enchanting Northern Lights, winter wonderland landscapes, and reindeer rides, Lapland is perfect for those who want to embrace the holiday season.
In Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, you can meet Santa, visit his village, and even send postcards from the Arctic Circle. For thrill-seekers, activities like husky sledding and snowmobiling await. Lapland is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in December for Christmas magic and memorable winter activities.
Antarctica
For a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, Antarctica in December is an awe-inspiring experience among the best places to visit in December. This remote, icy continent becomes accessible during the Antarctic summer, offering relatively mild temperatures and unique wildlife encounters. Cruises to Antarctica let you see massive icebergs, penguin colonies, and whales in their natural habitat.
Exploring Antarctica is a bucket-list journey that few travelers get to experience, and December’s sunlight-filled days provide ample time to enjoy its breathtaking landscape.
The Scottish Highlands, UK
In December, the Scottish Highlands transform into a picturesque winter escape, with misty moors, snow-dusted mountains, and a cozy holiday ambiance.
Visit historic castles, take a scenic drive along the North Coast 500, or enjoy a whisky tasting by the fire. The Highlands are a serene, budget-friendly option and one of the best places to travel in December on a budget for a cozy retreat filled with natural beauty and rich history.
Hokkaido, Japan
For those seeking one of the best places to visit in December, Hokkaido is the ideal destination for snow sports enthusiasts. Japan’s northernmost island is famous for its powdery snow, making it one of Asia’s premier skiing and snowboarding spots.
In addition to winter sports, you can relax in an onsen (hot spring), sample unique Japanese winter dishes, and explore Sapporo’s charming streets. The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in February, is another draw, but December already offers snow-covered landscapes and fewer crowds, creating a peaceful yet adventurous winter getaway.
Tips for a Fulfilling December Trip
Here are some practical tips for travelers when visiting these best places to visit in December!
- Book in Advance: December is a peak travel month, especially around the holidays, so early booking for flights and accommodations is essential.
- Plan for Local Holidays: Many destinations have special holiday hours or customs, so research local events and closures to make the most of your trip.
- Pack Smartly: For those traveling across different climates, pack a variety of gear, from swimsuits to winter coats, to be prepared for any weather.
- Consider the Budget: December is often pricier due to holiday demand, so look for budget-friendly options, especially if you’re planning an extended stay.
December is a magical time to travel, offering a perfect blend of festive spirit, winter wonderlands, and cozy retreats. If you’re eager to kick off your winter adventures a bit earlier, why not check out our guide to the Best Places to Visit in November? It’s packed with destinations that showcase the best of autumn’s golden hues alongside early holiday cheer. And for those planning to ring in the New Year somewhere special, don’t miss our roundup of the Best Places to Visit in January. These spots are ideal for fresh starts and exciting beginnings in the brand new year.
Whether you’re looking for urban energy, beach bliss, or snowy escapes, December presents endless opportunities to create an unforgettable travel experience. From the holiday-lit streets of Salzburg to the pristine beaches of the Maldives, these destinations are some of the best places to visit in December in the world, each offering something unique and memorable. Embrace the spirit of the season, explore diverse landscapes, and make this December one of your most exciting and enriching travel months yet.
