December is when the world puts on its best show - snowfall shimmering in alpine towns, Christmas markets glowing in Europe, and sun-drenched beaches calling from the tropics. If you are dreaming up the best places to visit in December in the world, this guide is your passport to festive cities, wild adventures and warm getaways - plus an inspiring India tour that weaves palaces, deserts, jungles and backwaters into one unforgettable itinerary.
Pack a sweater, pack a swimsuit and pack your curiosity. Let’s unwrap December, one unforgettable place at a time!
If you are shortlisting the best places to go in the world in December, the Maldives belongs near the top. December ushers in the dry season, bringing long, sunny days, gentle seas and crystal-clear visibility, ideal for snorkeling, diving or just floating between breakfast and sunset.
Places to visit in Maldives– Male, Maafushi, Addu City, Fulhadhoo, and Fulidhoo are all names.
Best things to do in Maldives– Snorkeling, staying in a water villa for the night, and dining in an underwater restaurant.
December weather in Maldives – The temperature ranges between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius, although it is also the Maldives’ rainiest month.
Cape Town shines in summer with clear Table Mountain views, penguin-filled beaches and sunset drives along Chapman’s Peak - making it one of the top places to visit in December in world travel lists. Expect lively markets, coastal dining and easy day trips to the Constantia and Franschhoek Winelands.
Places to visit in Cape Town– Table Mountain, the National Botanical Garden, Robben Island, the Two Oceans Aquarium, and the Castle of Good Hope are all worth seeing.
Best things to do in Cape Town – Beach hopping, trekking to Table Mountain, wine tasting, and visiting Robben Island are all options.
December weather in Cape Town – The temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius, and it rains heavily.
Cancun is often highlighted for its parties and opulent resorts, but it has the potential to surprise visitors and establish a case for being one of the finest locations to vacation in December on a budget. Cancun has long been a favorite and one of the best places to visit in December in the world among the younger generation of students and travelers under the age of 30 due to its proximity to the United States.
Places to visit in Cancun – Xcaret Park, Coba, Xel Ha Park, and Cancun Underwater Museum.
Best things to do in Cancun – Beach hopping, swimming in an underground river, zip-lining, Chichen Itza visits, and ATV rides.
December weather in Cancun – With temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius, the weather is nice.
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Krabi is a lovely region on Thailand’s southwest coast that is dotted with beautiful limestone mounds, white sand beaches, and aqua-blue seas. The location is well-known among honeymooners, families, luxury travelers, and explorers.
Thailand is one of the first countries that every visitor thinks of when considering the finest and one of the best places to visit in December in the world. Rarely do you come across a country as diverse, wealthy, and vibrant as this one.
Places to visit in Krabi– Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don, Ko Lanta, and the Phi Phi Islands
Best things to do in Krabi – visit the Phi Phi Islands, Railay Beach, Ko Lanta Yai, and Ko Poda.
December weather in Krabi – Krabi’s weather in December is mild, with temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius.
Langkawi is a very underrated yet the best place to travel in December in the world. It consists of 104 islands and is Malaysia’s equivalent of Las Vegas and Macau. Despite receiving a large number of visitors of different ages, genders, and nationalities, there is general agreement among travelers that adventure and luxury can be best experienced in Langkawi, which happens to be one of the top nations to visit in December.
Places to visit in Langkawi – Pantai Cenang Beach, Langkawi Cable Car, Payar Island, and Art Paradise
Best things to do in Langkawi – Shopping is the best thing to do here, Items such as jewelry, cosmetics, purses, and electronics are really famous.
December weather in Langkawi – In December, the temperature in Langkawi ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius.
La Romana, Dominican Republic, is pure December sunshine - calm waters, and soft-sand beaches. Sail to Saona Island for sandbars and sea turtles, snorkel clear reefs near Bayahibe, and stroll the stone lanes of Altos de Chavon at sunset. With easy resorts, great golf and family-friendly vibes, it’s one of the best international places to visit in December when you want simple, stress-free tropical fun.
Places to visit in La Romana – Playa Caleta; Altos de Chavón; Teeth of the Dog; Casa de Campo’s Dye Fore Golf Course
Best things to do in La Romana – Dominican coffee, amber and larimar jewelry, and accessories for faceless dolls
December weather in La Romana – The temperature fluctuates from 19 to 30 degrees Celsius, making December an ideal time to visit La Romana.
Goa in December is at its best - cool mornings, sunny beach days and nights with music! Start in North Goa for lively shacks at Baga and Anjuna, then slip south to Palolem or Agonda for quiet sands and dreamy sunsets. In between, wander Old Goa’s UNESCO-era churches, taste spicy seafood curries and take a trip to Dudhsagar Falls. Christmas markets, beach cafes and New Year fireworks keep the vibe festive without fuss. It’s an easy pick for anyone shortlisting places to visit in December in world.
Places to visit in Goa – The Basilica of Bom Jesus, Aguada Fort, Palolem Beach, Patnem Beach, and Colomb Beach
Best things to do in Goa – Explore old Goa, nightlife in Tito’s Lane, Anjuna flea market, cultural events, and festivals.
December weather in Goa – The weather in Goa is spectacular in December, making it the ideal time to visit.
Siargao Island (Philippines) - dubbed the country’s surfing capital, Siargao has a laid-back life with wild Pacific energy. Catch sunrises at Cloud 9, then swap the boat for a boat or swim in the glassy turquoise of Sugba Lagoon.
December brings reliable swell, warm water, and a festive, easygoing scene, with coconut-lined roads, seafood barbecues, and starry nights. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, rent a scooter, and unplug.
Places to visit in Siargao Island – Guyam Island, Daku Island, Dedon Island Siargao Inc., Cloud 9 Surfing Area.
Best things to do in Siargao Island – Explore Sugba lagoon, go island hopping, visit the coconut tree viewpoint, and attend a full moon party.
December weather in Siargao Island – Rain falls on 24 of the 31 days, while the remaining seven are dry.
Bali is hands-down the best place in the world to travel in December, blending tropical vibes with rich culture and unforgettable adventure. Ringing in the holidays while surfing waves, exploring lush jungle temples and sipping coconut lattes in cliffside cafes. December in Bali means dramatic sunsets over Uluwatu, and beaches clubs buzzing with life.
Places to visit in Bali – Ubud, Bali Swing, Lovina, Blue Point Beach, Campuhan Ridge
Best things to do in Bali – Relax on Bali’s beaches, try Balinese cuisine, scuba diving and snorkeling
December weather in Bali – The greatest time to visit Bali is in December when the weather is perfect.
Mauritius, another top honeymoon location in the globe, is famed for its gorgeous beaches. It is an island nation in East Africa, is the definition of beauty, and what makes it one of the best places to visit in December in the world is the whole holiday experience.
Mauritius offers several magnificent resorts and hotels where visitors may stay. Mauritius is one of the greatest and safest destinations to visit in December, thanks to its beautiful beaches and turquoise clear waters.
Places to visit in Mauritius – National Park of the Black River Gorges, le aux Cerfs, and Seven Colored Earth are some of the best places to visit in Mauritius.
Best things to do in Mauritius – Tea plantations in Bois Chéri, local cuisine, underwater walk.
December weather in Mauritius – The month of December is ideal for visiting Mauritius and enjoying the open sky and sunshine.
Rio de Janeiro is one of the best international places to visit in December, with sun-soaked beaches and festive energies! As winter grips the Northern Hemisphere, Rio turns the heat with its balmy summer weather, perfect for lounging on Ipanema, hiking to Christ the Redeemer or catching a football match at Maracana Stadium.
December also kicks off the city’s legendary holiday celebrations, watching fireworks over Copacabana Beach or dancing into the New Year with locals in white outfits, a tradition for peace and luck.
Places to visit in Rio De Janeiro – Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain, Maracaibo, and Ipanema Beach are all popular tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro.
Best things to do in Rio De Janeiro – Hang gliding from Pedra Bonita, Favela tour, shopping.
December weather in Rio De Janeiro – The temperature ranges from 23 to 29 degrees Celsius.
Miami is one of the most prominent and well-known cities to visit in December across the world. Hundreds of songs, movies, and TV series have praised the palm trees, evergreen weather, quirky people, and rich lifestyle that is nothing short of a common man’s fantasy. It is one of the greatest warm spots in the world to visit in December. It is one of Europe’s top destinations to visit in December.
Places to visit in Miami– The Miami Seaquarium, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Lincoln Road, and Coral Castle are among popular attractions in Miami.
Best things to do in Miami– Explore the Art Deco historic district in Miami Beach, In Little Havana, immerse yourself in Cuban culture.
December weather in Miami – Miami’s temperature ranges from 19 to 23 degrees Celsius.
Dubai is a city of jaw-dropping skylines, luxury experiences and endless sunshine - making it a dream destination any time of year. But what truly sets is apart is that it’s one of the best places to visit in December in the world. While winter chills take over somewhere, Dubai offers warm days perfect for desert safaris, beach lounging and exploring marvels like the Burj Khalifa and Museum of the Future.
Places to visit in Dubai – The Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, Gold Souk, Palm Jumeirah, and Wild Wadi Waterpark are some of the popular places to visit in Dubai.
Best things to do in Dubai – Experience the thrill of a desert safari, explore the stunning architecture of the Dubai Opera, and winter sports.
December weather in Dubai – Dubai’s temperature ranges from 16 to 26 degrees Celsius.
Singapore is a dazzling fusion of cultures, flavours and futuristic design while offering travelers a dynamic cityscape that’s as clean and gree as it is high-tech and lively. What makes it even more appealing is that it’s one of the best international places to visit in December, thanks to its festive atmosphere, tropical climate and vibrant city vibes.
Places to visit in Singapore – Sentosa Island, Gardens by the Bay, Merlin’s Fountain, and Little India are famous places to visit in Singapore.
Best things to do in Singapore – Take in panoramic views of the city skyline from the SkyPark, Singapore Zoo, and Night Safari, and take a leisurely cruise along the Singapore River.
December weather in Singapore – The weather is nice, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 31 degrees Celsius.
One perk of visiting Australia in December is that you will be able to enjoy the magnificent summer weather. With a booming immigrant community, Sydney’s culture has a sense of cultural dynamism and a global air.
Visit some historic monuments, world-class eateries, and gorgeous tourist spots that will validate your decision to visit one of the best places to visit in December in the world. It is definitely Sydney.
Places to visit in Sydney – Sydney Harbor Bridge, Opera House, Bondi Beach, and Taronga Zoo are all must-see attractions.
Best things to do in Sydney– Relax on the famous Bondi beach, panoramic views of Sydney from the Sydney Tower, Take a harbor cruise.
December weather in Sydney – With temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, it’s not as hot as other places in Australia.
If you’re searching for where to go in December in the world, the capital of Mexico is another fantastic option. Mexico City is captivating for a variety of reasons. It is known for its beautiful beauty, clean beaches, and historic heritage. The weather is dry and moderate in December, making it an ideal time to visit. Coastal locations are often warmer than inland areas.
Places to visit in Mexico – The Metropolitan Cathedral, Chapultepec Park, and the National Palace
Best things to do in Mexico – Visit the impressive Teotihuacan, take a refreshing dip in a cenote, or take a train ride through Copper Canyon’s breathtaking scenery.
December weather in Mexico – The weather is pretty good, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius.
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The Philippines’ popularity among tourists stems from the country’s 7100 islands. Explore the breathtaking beauty of this location and immerse yourself in the unique island experiences. Boracay Island in the Philippines is a must-see while on vacation.
Places to visit in Phillipines – Boracay, Chocolate Hills, Panglao Islands, Mactan, and Siargao Islands are all popular tourist destinations.
Best things to do in the Philippines – Surfing, island hopping, sunbathing, and sampling delectable island food
December weather in Philippines – There are no rainy spells. As a result, the weather is frequently dry.
Chile is a country full of wild beauty and epic adventure, and December is one of the best time to see it all. It’s actually one of the best places to visit in December in the world, thanks to warm summer weather in Southern Hemisphere. You can hike through the stunning mountains, explore the colorful streets or relax under the stars! Plus, it’s the wine season, so a glass of Chilean red with a view? Yes, please. With fewer crowds and endless nature, Chile in December is a total win for travelers.
Places to visit in Chile – Torres del Paine National Park, Santiago, Easter Island, Valparaiso.
Best things to do in Chile – Trekking, rafting, sandboarding, shopping, and sampling Chilean cuisine
December weather in Chile – The weather in Chile in December is dry, making it an ideal time to visit.
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian gem full of ancient temples, vibrant culture and warm hospitality - and it absolutely deserves a spot on your list of top places to visit in December in world. This time of year brings cooler, dry weather, making it perfect for exploring the iconic Angkor Wat at sunrise or cruising along the Mekong River.
December is also festival season, with colorful celebrations like Bon Om Touk lighting up local towns.
Places to visit in Cambodia – Krong Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap, and Banteay Srei are all worth visiting.
Best things to do in Cambodia – Visit Angkor Wat at dawn or sunset, go bar hopping on Bar Street, visit old museums, and explore the luminous caverns at night.
December weather in Cambodia – It is cold and windy, with low humidity and a daytime temperature of 25 degrees.
Vietnam is a great place to visit in December, with cool weather in the north and sunny beaches in the south. It’s one of the best places to visit in December in world for travelers who want both adventure and relaxation. You can explore the quiet mountains of Sapa, cruise through Ha Long Bay or enjoy warm days in Ho Chi Minh city. December is also a festive time, with lights, markets and delicious street food everywhere.
Places to visit in Vietnam – Halong Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Sa Pa are the popular places to visit in Vietnam.
Best things to do in Vietnam – Trekking, trekking, waterfall discovery, caving, and visiting floating villages
December weather in Vietnam – In December, the weather is ideal for a trip to Vietnam.
Guatemala is one of the most gorgeous places on the planet. If you want to experience adventure and environment, there is no better spot than Guatemala. The elegance of colonial architecture and earthquake ruins provide an intriguing argument for visiting this Central American country.
Places to visit in Guatemala – Tikal, Lake Atitlan, Antigua Guatemala, Coban, and Livingston are all worth seeing.
Best things to do in Guatemala – Explore Mayan ruins, Lake Atitlan, Semuc Champey, and Pacaya.
December weather in Guatemala – The best month to visit Guatemala is December.
When it is winter in Asia, New Zealand enjoys sunny weather. If you have a taste for adventure, the outbacks of New Zealand are perfect for wild experiences. It is a new place for thrill seekers and adventurists. No wonder it was a great place to shoot Lord of the Rings.
Places to visit in New Zealand - Queenstown, Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, and Wellington are all popular tourist destinations.
Best things to do in New Zealand – Sandboarding, kayaking, ziplining, learning about Maori culture, seeing Glowworm Caves, and a wine-tasting trip are all options.
December weather in New Zealand – In December, New Zealand is quite hot. So, if you’re looking for some sun, head to New Zealand for a month.
Spain offers a little bit of everything in December - sunny coastlines, festive cities and snow-capped mountains - making it a strong contender for the best place in the world to travel in December.
December also brings cozy holiday markets, flamenco shows and mouthwatering seasonal food like turron and roasted chestnuts. With fewer tourists and plenty of charm, Spain turns the winter season into a warm and cultural celebration. Don’t overthink where to go in December in the world, just book your tickets for Spain.
Places to visit in Spain– Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granade, Ibiza, and Palma de Mallorca.
Best things to do in Spain – Hike the Camino, visit La Sagrada, and learn Flamenco.
December weather in Spain – Spain’s weather in December is nice. It does not become chilly.
Which city has white homes that sparkle like stars in the middle of the day? Of course, Greece. Because of its unsurpassed beauty, everyone would like to visit Greece at least once in their life. It provides both a paradisiacal day and a lively nightlife experience. It is also well-known for its historical landmarks.
Places to visit in Greece – Athens, Mykonos, the Crete Region, Santorini, Oia, and Rhodes are all worth visiting.
Best things to do in Greece – Sunbathe on beaches, tour historical sites, and discover white villages.
December weather in Greece – The weather in Greece in December is chilly, so bring warm clothes with you when you go on vacation.
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Some of the most magnificent walks in the world may be found in Hawaii, notably on Kauai. Although hiking is available all year, fall is an excellent time to go because there are more hours of daylight and the paths look to be drier. You will have a fantastic time here.
Places to visit in Hawaii– Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, and the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Best things to do in Hawaii -Take a walk around the beaches and watch the sunset with your significant other.
December weather in Hawaii – The weather in Hawaii is lovely in December. It’s not too hot or too chilly.
Italy in December is pure magic - twinkling lights, festive markets and fewer crowds make it one of the best international places to visit in December. Cities like Rome, Florence and Venice glow with holiday spirit, while the Alps offer snowy adventures for ski lovers.
December also means festivals and Christmas traditions, from nativity scenes in Naples to panettone in Milan. Whether you are there for history, food or festive charm, Italy in December feels like a real-life holiday postcard.
Places to visit in Italy -Amalfi Coast, Venice, Milan, Florence, Naples, Siena
Best things to do in Italy -Pour yourself a drink of wine and eat some deep-dish pizza.
December weather in Italy – It will most likely rain where it is not snowing. Make sure you have woolen on hand.
Sri Lanka, the most beautiful nation known for its tear-drop form, is one of the best places to visit in December in the world. Sri Lanka has a distinct atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday. Every encounter in this nation, whether it’s the beaches, the mountains, the folks, the architecture, or the food, leaves you wanting more.
Places to visit in Sri Lanka – Sigiriya, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple, Adam’s Peak, and more attractions are available.
Best things to do in Sri Lanka – Trek to the summit of Sigiriya, hike up Adam’s Peak, go on a wildlife safari at Yala National Park, engage with elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, wander the sandy shores of Arugam Bay Beach, and more.
December weather in Sri Lanka – The average temperature in Sri Lanka in December ranges from 22 to 31 degrees Celsius.
Bhutan is a peaceful Himalayan Kingdom where ancient traditions come with mountain views, making it a hidden gem and truly the best place in the world to travel in December for those seeking serenity and culture.
December comes with vibrant local festivals, warm hospitality and fewer tourists offering a more personal and authentic experience.
Places to visit in Bhutan –Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Gangteng Monastery, National Museum of Bhutan, etc are some of the popular places to visit in Bhutan.
Best things to do in Bhutan -Explore the National Museum of Bhutan, hike to the Tiger’s Nest, see the Buddhist temple of Kichu Lhakang, be in awe of the Buddha Dordenma, visit Jigme Dorji National Park, and more.
December weather in Bhutan -Bhutan’s December temperatures range from minus 1 to 13 degrees Celsius, so you may as well take your woolens.
The Czech Republic is a wonderful place to visit in December. The streets are full of lights, the buildings look like they’re from a fairy tale, and the Christmas markets are amazing. In Prague, you can walk through Old Town Square, drink warm mulled wine, and try tasty treats like trdelník. The air is cold and fresh, perfect for enjoying the holiday feeling.
Places to visit in Czech Republic -Prague Castle, Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral, Dancing House, Petrin Tower, Strahov Monastery, and many other attractions are available.
Best things to do in Czech Republic -Boat beneath the Charles Bridge, see the Prague Astronomical Clock, pose beside the Lennon Wall, enjoy a guided tour of Karlstejn Castle, and stroll down the Golden Lane
December weather in Czech Republic -Prepare to get showered in snow as temperatures in the Czech Republic in December vary from -2 to 3 degrees Celsius.
Hong Kong, formerly a British colony, is today a worldwide financial metropolis in the heart of China’s southeastern region. It is not only one of the best places to visit in December in the world, but it is also one of the world’s leading metropolitan centers, with a dynamic nature and a skyline studded with gorgeous buildings. While it is well-known as a major shopping destination, do not overlook the great amusement parks!
Places to visit in Hong Kong -Tian Tan Buddha, Avenue of Stars, Po Lin Monastery, Lamma Island, Repulse Bay, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, Victoria Harbour, Lantau Island
Best things to do in Hong Kong -See the cityscape from Victoria Peak, experience the wonders of Hong Kong Disneyland, thrill to the attractions at Ocean Park, shop on Tung Choi Street, and take the Peak Tram.
December weather in Hong Kong – Hong Kong experiences relatively mild weather in December, with highs between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.
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With its pleasant climate, Peru is the best place to travel in December in the world. You might hike up Rainbow Mountain, see the well-known oasis, and explore Machu Picchu. Peru is not just a stunning country but also a country full of surprises. During your trip, you will also have incredible culinary and cultural experiences.
Places to visit in Peru -Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lima, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Best things to do in Peru – Sandboarding, surfing, hiking.
December weather in Peru – Peru is warm, dry, and sunny in December. There are extremes in temperature: 2 degrees Celsius and 7 degrees.
