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Best Places to Travel in December: 25 Picks for Warm Escapes, Snow Trips, and Budget Travelers
Fact-Checked By: Maya Whitfield, Senior Travel Editor at WakaAbuja
The best places to travel in December depend on whether you want warmth, snow, or a festive city break. For warm weather, consider Cancún, Tulum, or the Canary Islands. For snow and skiing, Banff, Breckenridge, and Zermatt deliver. For Christmas markets and festive atmosphere, Vienna, Prague, and Quebec City are hard to beat. Budget travelers should look at Mexico, Portugal, and Southeast Asia, where December sits outside peak season. Expect flights and hotels to spike between December 20 and January 2, so book by early November for the best rates (confirm current prices on the booking platform before you commit).
December is the most polarizing month for travel. Half the world is chasing snow and Christmas markets, and the other half is chasing sunshine and a break from winter. Both are valid. I have done both, sometimes in the same year, and I have learned that the best December trip is the one that matches your actual mood, not the one that looks best on Instagram.
This guide breaks down 25 destinations by what kind of December you want. I have included real weather patterns, rough price ranges, crowd levels, and the dates to avoid so you can book with confidence instead of guesswork.
Jump to: Warm escapes | Snow and ski | Festive cities | Budget picks | Under-the-radar | When to book | FAQ
Key takeaways
- December splits into three travel moods: warm beach escapes, snowy ski trips, and festive city breaks. Pick your mood first, then your destination.
- Caribbean and Mexican beach destinations run $150 to $400 per night in December, with prices spiking after December 20 (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
- Ski resorts like Banff, Breckenridge, and Zermatt offer early-season deals before the Christmas rush.
- European Christmas markets are cheapest in the first two weeks of December. Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg are the standouts.
- Budget-friendly December trips include Mexico, Portugal, Vietnam, and Thailand, where December is shoulder season or dry season with manageable crowds.
- Avoid booking flights between December 20 and January 2 unless you have no choice. Prices can double or triple on those dates.
- Book holiday-season flights and hotels by early November for the best selection and rates.
What are the best warm places to travel in December?
If you want to trade winter coats for swimsuits, December delivers plenty of options. The Caribbean, Mexico, and parts of Southeast Asia are all in their dry seasons, with warm days and low humidity. The trade-off is that December is also peak season for many of these destinations, especially between Christmas and New Year.
I spent one December in Tulum and another in Cancún, and the difference in crowd levels was striking. Tulum was busy but manageable in early December, while Cancún was packed by the third week. If you want warm weather without the chaos, aim for the first two weeks of the month.
Cancún and Riviera Maya, Mexico
Cancún and the Riviera Maya offer the easiest warm-weather escape from North America. Flights are short, resorts are plentiful, and the water is warm enough for swimming all month. Daytime temperatures sit around 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with low humidity and minimal rain. Hotel rates range from $150 per night for a mid-range resort to $500 or more for luxury all-inclusives (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
The Riviera Maya, which includes Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Akumal, is slightly quieter than Cancún but still busy in December. Tulum has better food and a more bohemian vibe. Cancún has better infrastructure and more direct flights. If you want to book a resort, I usually check Booking.com for flexible cancellation options and Agoda for Asian and Mexican hotel deals.
Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are Europe’s answer to a warm December escape. Located off the coast of Morocco, they enjoy mild temperatures year-round, with December daytime highs around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the most popular islands, with a mix of beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming towns. Prices are lower than the Caribbean, with mid-range hotels starting around $80 to $150 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
The Canaries are also a good option if you are already in Europe and want a short flight. From Madrid or London, you can be on the beach in four hours.
Bali, Indonesia
December is the start of Bali’s rainy season, but that does not mean constant rain. You will get afternoon showers, but mornings are usually clear and the temperatures are warm. The trade-off is lower prices and fewer crowds than the peak July and August months. Hotels range from $30 per night for a guesthouse to $300 or more for a luxury villa (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Bali is a long flight from North America or Europe, so it makes more sense as part of a longer trip. If you are already in Asia, it is an easy and affordable December destination.
Maldives
The Maldives is the ultimate warm-weather splurge. December falls in the dry season, with clear skies, calm water, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. The downside is the price. Luxury resorts run $500 to $1,500 per night or more during the holiday season (confirm current rates on the booking platform). If you want the Maldives on a budget, look at guesthouses on local islands, where rooms start around $50 to $100 per night.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai in December is warm but not scorching. Daytime temperatures sit around 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for beach days and desert safaris. The city goes all out for the holidays, with decorations, events, and shopping festivals. Hotel prices are high in December, especially around New Year’s Eve, so book early. Expect $200 to $500 per night for a mid-range hotel (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Best warm-weather picks
- Cancún and Riviera Maya for easy access from North America
- Canary Islands for a European beach escape without a long flight
- Bali for affordability and a mix of beach and culture
- Maldives for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury trip
- Dubai for warm weather plus city energy
Worth considering
- Thailand for warm weather and low costs
- Puerto Rico for a Caribbean trip without a passport
- Costa Rica for ecotourism and beaches
What are the best snowy and ski destinations in December?
December is prime time for ski resorts and snowy landscapes. Early December offers the best combination of fresh snow and lower prices, before the Christmas crowds arrive. By mid-month, resorts are in full swing, and by the last week, prices peak.
I learned to ski in Breckenridge one December, and the early-season conditions were better than I expected. The resort had received several feet of snow by the first week, and the lift lines were short. That changed by December 22, when the town filled up and every restaurant had a wait.
Banff, Canada
Banff is one of the most scenic ski destinations in the world, with three major resorts: Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Mount Norquay. December offers reliable snow and a charming town atmosphere. The trade-off is the cold. Temperatures can drop to minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit, and daylight is short, around eight hours. Pack layers and plan your outdoor activities for the middle of the day.
Banff is also more affordable than U.S. ski resorts, especially with the exchange rate. Lift tickets run around $100 to $130 per day (confirm the latest price directly with the resort), and hotels range from $150 to $400 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is one of the most popular ski towns in the United States, with 2,908 skiable acres and a historic main street that feels like a Christmas card. December conditions are usually good, though early-season snow can be variable. The town is walkable, with restaurants, bars, and shops all within a few blocks.
Breckenridge is not cheap. Lift tickets run $150 to $200 per day (confirm the latest price directly with the resort), and hotels start around $200 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform). Book early if you are going during the holidays.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is the quintessential Alpine ski town, with the Matterhorn towering over cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages. December is early season, but the resort has glacier skiing and reliable snow. The town is car-free, which makes it feel like a step back in time. Prices are high, with hotels starting around $250 per night and lift tickets around $90 to $110 per day (confirm the latest price directly with the resort).
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is the glamorous side of American skiing, with four mountains, luxury hotels, and a celebrity clientele. December offers good conditions and a festive atmosphere, but prices are among the highest in the country. Hotels run $400 to $1,000 per night during the holidays (confirm current rates on the booking platform), and lift tickets are around $180 to $220 per day (confirm the latest price directly with the resort).
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Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The terrain is steep and challenging, and the snow is abundant. December can be cold and snowy, but the town of Jackson is charming, with a classic Western vibe. Hotels range from $200 to $500 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform), and lift tickets are around $150 to $180 per day (confirm the latest price directly with the resort).
Best for snow and skiing
- Banff for scenery and value
- Breckenridge for a classic American ski town
- Zermatt for Alpine charm and the Matterhorn
- Aspen for luxury and four mountains
- Jackson Hole for expert terrain
Worth considering
- Whistler, Canada, for the largest ski resort in North America
- Park City, Utah, for easy access from Salt Lake City
- St. Moritz, Switzerland, for glamour and skiing
Which cities have the best Christmas markets and festive atmosphere?
If you want holiday magic, Europe delivers. Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, France, and the Czech Republic are the gold standard, with wooden stalls, mulled wine, and handmade gifts. December is cold, but the atmosphere is worth it.
I visited Vienna’s Christmas markets one December and understood immediately why people plan entire trips around them. The city hall market alone has over 150 stalls, an ice-skating rink, and a light display that rivals anything I have seen.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, including the famous Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz. The city is also full of concerts, opera, and festive lights. December temperatures hover around 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack warm clothes. Hotels range from $100 to $300 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas market is one of the most photogenic in Europe, with a massive Christmas tree and stalls selling trdelník, a local pastry. The city is more affordable than Vienna or Paris, with hotels starting around $60 to $150 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform). Temperatures are similar to Vienna, around 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg calls itself the “Capital of Christmas,” and it lives up to the name. The city has multiple markets spread across its historic center, with a focus on Alsatian crafts and food. It is also the oldest Christmas market in France, dating back to 1570. Hotels run $80 to $250 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is the most European-feeling city in North America, and its Christmas market is charming without requiring a transatlantic flight. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the German-style market in Place d’Armes features local artisans and food. December temperatures are cold, around 10 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit, so pack accordingly. Hotels range from $100 to $300 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
New York City, USA
New York City in December is iconic. The Rockefeller Center tree, the window displays on Fifth Avenue, and the holiday markets in Bryant Park and Union Square all draw crowds. The city is expensive and crowded, but the energy is unmatched. Hotels run $200 to $600 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform), and you should book flights and accommodations by early fall.
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Best festive cities
- Vienna for grand markets and concerts
- Prague for affordability and photogenic squares
- Strasbourg for the oldest market in France
- Quebec City for a European feel without the flight
- New York City for iconic holiday energy
Worth considering
- Budapest for thermal baths and markets
- Munich for beer halls and Bavarian markets
- London for lights and theater
Where can you travel in December on a budget?
December is peak season in many places, but not everywhere. If you are willing to trade a little warmth or a little convenience, you can find excellent deals. Here are the best budget-friendly December destinations.
Mexico (outside Cancún and Los Cabos)
Mexico is affordable in December if you skip the resort zones. Mexico City, Oaxaca, and San Miguel de Allende offer mild weather, excellent food, and hotel rooms starting around $40 to $80 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform). Flights from the U.S. are short and often cheap, especially if you book by early November.
Portugal
Portugal is one of the cheapest countries in Western Europe, and December is low season. Lisbon and Porto are mild, with temperatures around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Hotels start around $50 to $100 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform). Flights from the U.S. or Europe are affordable if you book early.
Vietnam and Thailand
December is dry season in much of Southeast Asia, making it a great time to visit. Vietnam and Thailand both offer excellent value, with guesthouses starting around $15 to $30 per night and street food meals for a few dollars (confirm current rates on the booking platform). The flights are the main expense, but once you are there, your money goes far.
Eastern Europe
Budapest, Krakow, and Bucharest are all affordable in December, with Christmas markets and festive atmospheres at a fraction of the cost of Vienna or Paris. Hotels start around $40 to $80 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform). These cities are also less crowded than their Western European counterparts.
Shoulder-season beach destinations
Some beach destinations are in shoulder season in December, which means lower prices and fewer crowds. Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and parts of Costa Rica offer warm weather without the peak-season price tag. Hotels start around $80 to $150 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Mexico City hotels
$40 to $80 per night (check current rates)
Portugal hotels
$50 to $100 per night (check current rates)
Vietnamese guesthouses
$15 to $30 per night (check current rates)
Budapest hotels
$40 to $80 per night (check current rates)
What are the most underrated December destinations?
Some destinations get overlooked in December because they are not obvious beach or ski picks. These are the places I recommend when someone wants something different.
Japan
December is low season in Japan, which means fewer crowds and lower prices. Tokyo and Kyoto are cold but manageable, and the lack of tourists makes the experience more enjoyable. If you want snow, head to Hokkaido for some of the best powder skiing in the world. Hotels range from $80 to $200 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Morocco
Morocco is mild in December, with temperatures around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in Marrakech. It is a great time to explore the souks, the Atlas Mountains, and the desert without the intense heat of summer. Hotels and riads start around $50 to $100 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most cultural cities, with excellent food, artisan crafts, and a mild December climate. It is also much cheaper than Cancún or Mexico City. Hotels start around $40 to $80 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Slovenia
Slovenia is a small country with big scenery, including Lake Bled and the Julian Alps. December is cold but festive, with Christmas markets in Ljubljana and skiing in the mountains. It is more affordable than Austria or Switzerland, with hotels starting around $60 to $120 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
Tasmania, Australia
December is summer in Tasmania, with mild temperatures and long daylight hours. It is a great time for hiking, wine tasting, and exploring the island’s wilderness. It is a long flight from North America or Europe, but if you are already in Australia, it is an easy add-on. Hotels range from $80 to $200 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform).
When should you book December travel, and which dates should you avoid?
December is one of the busiest travel months of the year, and timing your booking matters more than almost any other factor. Here is what I have learned from years of booking December trips, sometimes too late and sometimes just right.
Book flights by early November.
For domestic flights, the sweet spot is six to eight weeks before departure. For international flights, book three to six months ahead. If you are traveling between December 20 and January 2, book as early as possible. Prices for those dates can double or triple as the holiday approaches. Use Kayak to compare prices across airlines and set alerts for your routes.
Book hotels by early fall.
Hotels in popular December destinations fill up fast, especially resorts and ski lodges. Book by September or October for the best selection. If you are flexible, check Expedia for package deals that combine flights and hotels, which can sometimes save you money.
Avoid December 20 to January 2 if you can.
This is the most expensive and crowded window of the year. If your schedule allows, travel in the first two weeks of December or wait until after January 5. You will get better prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience. If you must travel during the holidays, book everything as early as possible and consider less obvious destinations.
Check for events and holidays.
December is full of holidays and events, from Christmas markets to New Year’s Eve celebrations. Some destinations have specific dates when everything is booked or closed. Check local calendars before you finalize your plans. For tours and activities, GetYourGuide is a reliable platform for booking in advance.
Consider travel insurance.
December travel comes with weather risks, especially if you are flying through regions prone to snowstorms. Travel insurance can cover delays, cancellations, and medical emergencies. It is a small cost for peace of mind. For more on this, see our guide to travel insurance for travelers.
Frequently asked questions about traveling in December
Where is warm in December that is also affordable?
Mexico, Portugal, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Canary Islands are all warm and affordable in December. Mexico and Portugal offer mild weather, with hotel rooms starting around $40 to $80 per night (confirm current rates on the booking platform). Southeast Asia is warmer, with guesthouses starting around $15 to $30 per night.
What is the cheapest place to travel in December?
The cheapest December destinations are typically in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Mexico. Vietnam, Thailand, Budapest, Krakow, and Oaxaca all offer good value. If you are in North America, Mexico is the most affordable warm-weather option. Booking flights by early November is key to keeping costs down.
Is December a good time to visit Europe?
Yes, December is a great time to visit Europe if you want Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere. Vienna, Prague, Strasbourg, and Budapest are all magical in December. The weather is cold, but the crowds are smaller than in summer, and prices are lower outside the holiday week. If you want warm weather, head to the Canary Islands instead.
What are the best ski destinations in December?
Banff, Breckenridge, Zermatt, Aspen, and Jackson Hole are all excellent in December. Early December offers the best combination of fresh snow and lower prices. Banff and Breckenridge are the best value, while Zermatt and Aspen are the most luxurious. Book lift tickets and lodging by early fall for the best rates.
When should I book December flights?
Book domestic flights six to eight weeks before departure and international flights three to six months ahead. If you are traveling between December 20 and January 2, book as early as possible, as prices spike significantly during that window. Use price comparison tools and set alerts to track fares.
What dates should I avoid traveling in December?
Avoid December 20 through January 2 if you can. This is the peak holiday travel window, with the highest prices and largest crowds. The first two weeks of December and the period after January 5 offer better value and a more relaxed experience. If you must travel during the holidays, book everything as early as possible.
Is December a good time for a family vacation?
Yes, December works well for family vacations, especially if you choose a destination with activities for all ages. Ski resorts, beach destinations, and festive cities all offer family-friendly options. The key is to book early and avoid the peak holiday week if your schedule allows it. Consider travel insurance to cover any weather-related delays.
What are the best underrated December destinations?
Japan, Morocco, Oaxaca, Slovenia, and Tasmania are all underrated in December. Japan offers low-season prices and powder skiing in Hokkaido. Morocco is mild and affordable. Oaxaca has great food and culture. Slovenia is a more affordable alternative to Austria or Switzerland. Tasmania is warm and perfect for hiking if you are already in Australia.
Plan your trip: booking platforms we trust
I use these platforms when planning my own December trips. They are reliable for comparing prices, reading recent reviews, and booking with confidence. I have noted what each one is best for so you can go straight to the one that fits your needs.
Agoda
Best for Asian hotel deals and sometimes surprising rates in Mexico and the Caribbean.
General hotel search with strong filter options and free cancellation deals.
Best for flight and hotel packages if you want to bundle and save.
Flight price comparison across multiple airlines and booking sites.
Family villas and vacation rentals for groups or longer stays.
Tours and activities, including Christmas market tours and ski packages.
Loyalty rewards bookings, which is good if you collect stamps toward free nights.
Reviews and restaurant finds, useful for checking recent diner feedback.
WakaAbuja does its best to keep all information accurate at the time of publishing. Prices, policies, and availability change regularly. Always verify with official sources before you travel. We are not liable for errors caused by outdated information. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
