Language 
Best places to visit in December 2026
Discover the 15 best places to visit in December from sunny Hawaii and Bali to snowy Lapland and Banff, with local tips and budget picks.
When you think of the holiday season, do you picture snowy escapes with hot cocoa by a crackling fire, tropical beaches for soaking up the sunshine, or cities filled with festive markets?
The best places to visit in December cover all three: Lapland and Banff for snow, Hawaii and Cancun for sun, and New York City and Strasbourg for holiday lights.
We’ve searched the globe to round up 15 of the best places to travel in December, including budget-friendly and family-friendly picks, and we’ll show you how to stay connected with a Holafly travel eSIM.
Count memories, not data
Never lose connection with unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly.
Best warm destinations to travel in December
If winter’s chill isn’t your thing, December is the perfect excuse to head somewhere warm. From sun-drenched beaches to lively cultural hubs, here are the best places to travel in December for sunny weather.
1. Hawaii, USA
Why visit: Warm weather, festive events, and seasonal activities like whale watching and surfing competitions.
Temperature: Temperatures range from the low 70s to mid-80s°F (21-29°C), so you can enjoy sunny beaches and outdoor adventures without breaking a sweat.
Don’t miss:
- Honolulu City Lights: Holiday celebrations take center stage in Honolulu, one of America’s most cultured cities. The 50-foot holiday tree and the iconic Shaka Santa and Tūtū Mele return each year to spread holiday cheer.
- Waimea Twilight Christmas Parade: Local Christmas celebrations bring a unique island twist to the festive season, with lights, music, and small-town charm.
- Whale watching in Maui: December marks the start of Maui’s whale-watching season, one of the best things to do in the USA. Join a boat tour or head to a coastal lookout point to spot humpback whales migrating from Alaska to Hawaii’s warmer waters.
🌟 Planning early? If you’re thinking ahead, check out our guide on the best places to travel in November to inspire your winter journey.
2. Sydney, Australia
Why visit: Bondi Beach vibes, iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks, and December festivals like Good Things and Palm Tree Music
Temperature: Average temperatures range from 65-79°F (19-26°C), with over 8 hours of sunshine daily.
Don’t miss:
- Bondi Beach and the coastal walk: Spend the day relaxing on Bondi Beach, exploring the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, or taking a scenic harbor cruise.
- Martin Place Christmas Tree: The tree stands 25 meters tall with over 110,000 LED lights and glows throughout the season.
- Festivals and markets: The city’s festive spirit shines through with events like the Sydney Comedy Festival Xmas Showcase and the European Christmas Market, while music lovers can enjoy the Good Things Festival and Palm Tree Music Festival.
🏝️ Dreaming of a summer escape? Plan your next adventure with our guide to the perfect destinations for August and make the most of the season.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Why visit: Lush rain-kissed landscapes, vibrant cultural festivals, tropical Christmas celebrations, and unforgettable New Year’s Eve parties
Temperature: Temperatures stay warm at 77-88°F (25-31°C). It’s the rainy season, but the short, refreshing showers turn the island’s rice terraces and jungles into a lush green haven, which makes Bali one of the best tropical places to visit in December.
Don’t miss:
- Denpasar Festival: Held in late December, the festival brings art, culture, and community together in Bali’s capital, with parades, art exhibitions, traditional dance performances, and food stalls serving Balinese delicacies.
- New Year’s Eve parties: Beach clubs like Atlas Beach Club and Potato Head Beach Club throw massive countdown parties, with fireworks lighting up the beaches and gala dinners with a view.
💡Local tip: Saffron Wu, our Holafly colleague who spends at least a month in Bali every year, recommends watching a traditional dance performance such as Legong, Kecak, or Barong. If Hindu traditions interest you, the best places to visit in India in December offer more rituals to discover.
Best winter destinations to travel in December
If winter makes you think of snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, and cozy scenes from a Hallmark movie, here’s a look at where to travel in December and January to catch that true holiday spirit.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Why visit: Old Town Square Christmas Market, festive concerts, and St. Nicholas celebrations
Temperature: Prague experiences cold winter conditions in December. The average high is around 36°F (2°C), with average lows dipping to approximately 26°F (-3°C).
Don’t miss:
- Christmas markets: At the Old Town Square Christmas Market, a towering Christmas tree, handmade crafts, and traditional Czech treats like trdelník (chimney cake) and klobása (grilled sausage) create a festive atmosphere in the heart of Prague. The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market adds local delicacies, warm drinks, and holiday performances.
- Holiday concerts: Venues like the Klementinum, the Spanish Synagogue, and Prague Castle host Christmas concerts featuring orchestras, choirs, and soloists.
- St. Nicholas celebrations: In early December, children meet St. Nicholas at Old Town Square for treats or hear a playful warning from his devilish companion.
5. Banff, Canada
Why visit: Banff Christmas Market, skiing at Lake Louise, lantern skating, and festive New Year’s Eve celebrations
Temperature: The average daily high is around 23°F (-5°C), and the average daily low is approximately 7°F (-14°C). Banff receives its highest monthly snowfall in December, averaging 17 inches (44 cm).
Don’t miss:
- Banff Christmas Market: Banff in December feels like stepping into a Christmas card. The market runs on select dates from late November to mid-December, with local crafts, festive treats, and live entertainment at the historic Banff Train Station.
- In Search of Christmas Spirit: This illuminated walking tour at the Cascade of Time Garden features glowing wildlife sculptures and a 45-minute storytelling journey with lights and music.
- Christmas at the Castle: The historic Fairmont Banff Springs is decked out in grand holiday decor and offers a variety of festive activities and dining experiences.
- Skiing and snowboarding: December is prime ski and snowboard season. The SkiBig3 resorts (Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay) offer fresh powder and breathtaking alpine views.
6. Reykjavik, Iceland
Why visit: Christmas Land at Laugardalur, Northern Lights, Imagine Peace Tower, and New Year’s fireworks
Temperature: Temperatures range from 27-35°F (-3 to 2°C), with snowy streets and crisp air creating the perfect setting for holiday festivities.
Don’t miss:
- Christmas Land in Laugardalur: Experience the festive magic with a Christmas market, reindeer at the Reykjavík Zoo, and gingerbread cookies at Laugardalslaug thermal pool.
- Imagine Peace Tower: Yoko Ono’s tribute to John Lennon is an iconic light installation on Viðey Island, symbolizing hope and peace.
- Geothermal pools: The pools at Laugardalslaug and Nauthólsvík make a cozy retreat after a chilly day.
💡Local tip: Jihea Chang, our Holafly colleague who visits Iceland frequently, says every Icelandic town has a local swimming pool that works as the hub of the community, and Laugardalslaug is one of the best known in Reykjavik.
Best places to visit in December for Christmas
Next up: best places to go in December for memories that’ll last a lifetime. Whether you’re dreaming of cozy traditions or extravagant festivities, these places know how to make the season unforgettable.
7. New York City, USA
Why visit: Holiday markets, iconic Christmas attractions, festive performances, and the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop
Temperature: New York City experiences typical winter conditions. The average high drops from approximately 49°F (9°C) at the beginning of the month to around 42°F (6°C) by month’s end. If that’s colder than you’d like, the best places to visit in May make for a warmer escape.
Don’t miss:
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: This iconic tree is the heart of New York’s holiday season, drawing visitors from around the world, and it stays on display throughout the month.
- Holiday markets: The Bryant Park Holiday Shops are open daily, and other popular markets operate at Union Square and Columbus Circle, offering unique gifts, artisanal crafts, and seasonal treats.
- Broadway and the Rockettes: Broadway is in full swing with legendary shows like “The Lion King,” “Wicked,” and “Hamilton.” For a true NYC holiday tradition, see the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.
- New Year’s Eve: End the year with the Times Square Ball Drop, one of the most famous celebrations in the world. The Empire State Building Holiday Light Shows add even more sparkle to the skyline with synchronized music and vibrant colors.
💡Local tip: Queens native Mahnoor Bangush, a content writer at Holafly, counts the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree among the local events worth planning a trip around. For gifts, she recommends a pack of Levain cookies or banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery.
8. Strasbourg, France
Why visit: Christkindelsmärik, one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, Alsatian culinary treats, breathtaking decorations, and cultural events
Temperature: Temperatures sit between 34-41°F (1-5°C), and the city’s crisp winter air sets the perfect scene for festive markets, glowing lights, and cultural events.
Don’t miss:
- Christkindelsmärik: Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, with over 300 chalets across Place de la Cathédrale, Place Broglie, and Place Kléber. You’ll find handcrafted ornaments, bredele cookies, gingerbread, and warm vin chaud (mulled wine), plus a towering 98-foot Christmas tree at Place Kléber.
- Petite France: Explore the charming streets where historic timber-framed houses are decorated with festive garlands and lights.
- Concerts and workshops: Add cultural experiences to your itinerary with concerts at the Strasbourg Cathedral, holiday storytelling, or workshops teaching you how to make traditional Alsatian treats.
9. Nuremberg, Germany
Why visit: Christkindlesmarkt, traditional Bavarian treats, festive children’s activities, and centuries-old holiday traditions
Temperature: Temperatures in Nuremberg range from 30-38°F (-1 to 3°C).
Don’t miss:
- Christkindlesmarkt: One of the best Christmas markets in Germany transforms the city into a festive paradise. Located in Hauptmarkt Square, the market features over 180 wooden stalls with red-and-white striped roofs and opens with a ceremonial prologue by the Christkind from the Frauenkirche.
- Sister City Market and Children’s Christmas Market: The Sister City Market at Rathausplatz showcases gifts and delicacies from Nuremberg’s international sister cities, while the Children’s Christmas Market offers cookie baking, glass painting, and carousel rides for younger visitors.
- Local food: Indulge in Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread), warm Glühwein (mulled wine), and savory Nuremberg Bratwurst, all served in an atmosphere rich with the scent of spices and evergreens.
Best budget-friendly December destinations
From affordable stays to budget-friendly activities, these spots prove that holiday joy doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Here’s our rundown of the places to travel in December, even if you’re on a shoestring budget.
💰 Love traveling on a budget? Check out our guide to cheap places to visit in April and save big on your next springtime trip.
10. Mexico City, Mexico
Why visit: Festive Las Posadas, Christmas markets, budget-friendly activities, and mild December weather
Temperature: Temperatures range from 41-68°F (5-20°C), and the mild weather is perfect for exploring the city’s bustling streets, historic landmarks, and festive events.
Budget: Hostel beds start at 190 MXN (~$11 USD) per night, street tacos cost as little as 10-25 MXN (~$0.60-1.50), and a metro ride costs 5 MXN (~$0.30).
Don’t miss:
- The Zócalo: Mexico City’s main square becomes the heart of holiday celebrations, with a massive Christmas tree, twinkling lights on the surrounding buildings, and an open-air ice skating rink.
- Coyoacán’s Christmas markets: Head here for unique Christmas gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and seasonal treats.
- Las Posadas: In this cherished tradition from December 16-24, neighborhoods host reenactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, complete with processions, singing, and community feasts.
💡 Local tip: “It’s a city that has everything,” says Miguel Del real Ramirez, Holafly’s Customer Director, about the capital of his home country. He points to its wide variety of gastronomy, many museums, and vibrant nightlife, and recommends eating at street taco stands for true, home-style Mexican flavor. At Christmas, try a traditional punch.
11. Phuket, Thailand
Why visit: Warm, sunny weather, Phuket King’s Cup Regatta, snorkeling, and island hopping
Temperature: December is the start of Phuket’s dry season, with warm weather averaging 77-88°F (25-31°C).
Budget: Budget guesthouses start at 300-800 THB (~$9-23 USD) per night, street food dishes like Pad Thai or Mango Sticky Rice cost 40-60 THB (~$1-2), and renting a motorbike costs 150-200 THB (~$4-6) per day.
Don’t miss:
- Phuket King’s Cup Regatta: This major sailing event takes place in early December.
- Snorkeling and island hopping: The calm seas and clear skies make December the perfect time for sunbathing, snorkeling, and tours to the Phi Phi Islands.
- Christmas and New Year’s Eve: Many resorts and beach clubs host Christmas celebrations and New Year’s Eve parties with fireworks displays.
💡 Local tip: Don’t leave without trying som tum, a spicy papaya salad from northeast Thailand. “It’s the go-to food for all Thais,” says our Holafly colleague who was born and raised in Thailand, who recommends having it with grilled chicken and sticky rice.
12. Budapest, Hungary
Why visit: Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica, festive light trams, thermal baths, and New Year’s Eve river cruises
Temperature: Temperatures average 28-40°F (-2 to 4°C), and the crisp air and holiday lights make the Hungarian capital an enchanting destination.
Budget: Budget hotels start at 8,000-15,000 HUF (~$22-42 USD) per night, street food like langos or chimney cakes costs 1,000-2,000 HUF (~$2.75-5.50), and a single public transport ticket costs 350 HUF (~$1).
Don’t miss:
- Christmas markets: The Vörösmarty Square Market features hundreds of craft stalls, free concerts, traditional Hungarian food, and mulled wine. The St. Stephen’s Basilica Market offers a nightly 3D light show projected onto the basilica, along with artisanal gifts and seasonal treats.
- City Park Ice Rink: One of Europe’s largest outdoor rinks is a must for skating enthusiasts.
- Thermal baths: Warm up at Széchenyi, where steaming waters provide a cozy escape from the cold weather.
- New Year’s Eve: Options range from Danube River cruises to citywide parties complete with fireworks.
🍂 Can’t get enough of fall? Dive into our guide on where to travel in October for stunning autumn scenery and crisp adventures.
Best family-friendly December destinations
For many of us, the best place to travel in December is somewhere the whole family can enjoy.
Traveling with family in December means finding destinations packed with kid-friendly fun, festive activities, and opportunities to bond.
13. Orlando, Florida
Why visit: Meet the Grinch at Universal, skate under the lights at Lake Eola, and watch SeaWorld’s Sesame Street Parade
Temperature: Daytime temperatures average 74°F (23°C), and the city’s world-famous theme parks come alive with seasonal magic.
Don’t miss:
- Walt Disney World: The resort is at its festive best, with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party bringing parades, fireworks, and seasonal performances on select nights. Over at EPCOT, the International Festival of the Holidays showcases global holiday traditions, festive food, and the iconic Candlelight Processional.
- SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration: The park transforms into a winter wonderland with holiday décor, themed shows, and seasonal entertainment for all ages.
- ICE! and the Asian Lantern Festival: ICE! at Gaylord Palms features ice sculptures and slides, while the Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo showcases vibrant, illuminated displays.
💡 Local tip: Plan your day the way Manuela Oswald suggests: a morning at a theme park, an afternoon in Downtown or at Lake Eola, and an evening at Disney Springs or CityWalk. Manuela, a Holafly content writer who lived in Florida for several years, also recommends Leu Gardens, a botanical garden often missed by theme park visitors.
14. Lapland, Finland
Why visit: Meet Santa in Rovaniemi, see the Northern Lights, ride a reindeer sleigh, and enjoy cozy glass igloo stays in snow-covered landscapes
Temperature: Temperatures range from 14-28°F (-10 to -2°C), and the snowy landscapes create the perfect setting for festive, fun, and unique winter activities.
Don’t miss:
- Santa Claus Village: Start your visit in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, where kids can meet Santa, send postcards from his post office, and cross the Arctic Circle. Nearby SantaPark is an underground theme park filled with Christmas-themed attractions.
- Northern Lights: The long winter nights make December ideal for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Many guided tours include cozy huts or sleigh rides under the Arctic sky.
- Winter activities: Glide through frosty forests on reindeer sleigh rides or try the thrill of dog sledding. Snowmobiling and ice fishing suit older kids and adults, while younger children will love snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing.
☀️ Looking forward to summer? Check out where to travel in July for the best sunny getaways and family-friendly adventures.
15. Cancun, Mexico
Why visit: Warm beaches, family-friendly resorts, and snorkeling adventures
Temperature: Cancun in December offers a tropical escape with temperatures ranging from 70-82°F (21-28°C). The dry season brings clear skies, minimal rainfall, and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures and family fun. Cancun stays warm and dry well into spring, which also makes it one of the best places to visit in March.
Don’t miss:
- Beaches and the reef: Cancun’s beaches, like Playa Delfines, offer soft sands for family outings. Explore the Great Maya Reef, go snorkeling, or take day trips to nearby islands such as Isla Mujeres or Holbox.
- Mayan ruins and cenotes: December’s mild weather is perfect for exploring Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza and swimming in the stunning cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula.
- Family-friendly resorts: Properties like Moon Palace and Wyndham Alltra Cancun feature kids’ clubs, water parks, and nightly entertainment.
💡 Local tip: For a break from the resorts, head to Parque de las Palapas, where locals spend the afternoon and enjoy Mexican snacks. Our colleague Miguel Del real Ramirez also recommends Market 23 and Market 28 for handmade souvenirs at very good prices.
‘Tis the season to stay connected with Holafly
Whether you’re finding your way, booking last-minute plans, or staying in touch, internet access is a must while you’re traveling. A Holafly travel eSIM gives you unlimited data, 5G speeds, and 24/7 support, so you can travel with peace of mind in 200+ destinations, including many of the best places to visit in December.
Every Holafly eSIM also includes Always On: 1 GB of monthly backup data at no added cost in 150+ destinations, which covers a long layover or the ride from the airport to your hotel.
Choose the eSIM for your destination and the number of days you need, on our website or in the Holafly app:
eSIM USA
eSIM Mexico
eSIM Europe
Iceland eSIM
eSIM Canada
eSIM Australia
eSIM Indonesia
eSIM Thailand
For a longer winter escape or a trip across several countries, Holafly Plans is a pay-monthly subscription that covers 160+ destinations with a single eSIM. Choose between the Unlimited and Light tiers, and cancel anytime.
Peace of mind before you fly
Set up your eSIM before travel and get unlimited data on arrival.
FAQs about the best places to visit in December
The best places to visit in December in the world are Hawaii, Sydney, and Bali for warm weather, Banff, Prague, and Reykjavik for a winter trip, and New York City, Strasbourg, and Nuremberg for Christmas. Mexico City, Phuket, and Budapest suit a tighter budget, while Orlando, Lapland, and Cancun work well for families.
The best place to vacation in December depends on the weather you want. Hawaii, Bali, and Cancun are among the best warm places to visit in December, while Lapland, Banff, and Reykjavik deliver snow.
Phuket, Thailand, is warm and affordable in December, with temperatures of 77-88°F (25-31°C) at the start of the dry season and low prices for guesthouses and street food. Mexico City is cooler, at 41-68°F (5-20°C), but it is also budget-friendly.
Seven days is enough for one destination with day trips. Good options are Cancun, with Chichen Itza and Isla Mujeres nearby, Budapest, with its Christmas markets and thermal baths, or Hawaii, with whale watching in Maui.
The best places to visit in December for couples are Strasbourg, Bali, and Budapest. Strasbourg offers Christmas markets and the festive streets of Petite France, Bali is known for cliffside sunset dinners around Uluwatu, and Budapest pairs thermal baths with New Year’s Eve cruises on the Danube.
Plans that may interest you
With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.
