Quick Picks for December
December is a month of choices: festive markets and snow in the north, or dry-season sun in the tropics. It is also one of the most expensive months to travel, particularly in the two weeks around Christmas and New Year.
- For Christmas atmosphere: Germany, Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Alsace in France, and Quebec.
- For sun: Mexico, the Caribbean, Thailand, Costa Rica, Hawaii and the Canary Islands.
- For snow: the Alps, Lapland, the Rockies and Hokkaido.
- For summer weather: Cape Town, Australia and parts of South America, where December is early summer.
Christmas Markets and Festive Cities
Christmas markets in Central Europe typically open in late November and run through December 23 or 24, with some continuing to the end of the year. Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Nuremberg, Prague, Budapest and Strasbourg are among the best known. Expect cold weather, crowds on weekends, and early sunsets. Visiting on a weekday and early in December can make it easier to enjoy the markets. Our guide to Christmas in Europe compares market cities and what stays open on the day.
In North America, New York, Quebec City and Chicago have a festive reputation, with lights, markets and skating. Many cities hold events in the weeks before Christmas rather than on the day itself, when much of the activity shuts down.
Sunny December Escapes
- Mexico. The start of the dry season on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Peak prices apply from mid-December.
- Caribbean. Hurricane season ends in November, and the dry season begins.
- Thailand. Typically drier and more comfortable than in the rainy months, though busy at Christmas and New Year. See our Thailand island hopping tips for ferries and timing.
- Costa Rica. Dry season begins, with green landscapes after the rains.
- Hawaii. Warm, with humpback whales arriving, but also busy and sometimes wet.
- Canary Islands. Mild weather that is a short flight from much of Europe.
Snow and Northern Lights
Early December is a popular time for Lapland and winter-wonderland trips, which sell out well in advance for the Christmas weeks. Skiing in the Alps is usually possible by mid-December, but snow cover can vary, and the best conditions often come later in the winter. Northern lights are possible in Iceland, Norway and Finland, but are never guaranteed. For more on snowy and Arctic trips, see our overview of the best places to travel in winter.
Where to Go for Seven Days
A week allows time for a long-haul trip without feeling rushed. Some options:
- A week in Thailand, combining Bangkok with an island or Chiang Mai.
- A week in Mexico, pairing a beach base with a city or ruins.
- A week in Austria and Germany, moving between two or three Christmas-market cities by train. The best place to travel in Germany can help you pick bases.
- A week in Lapland, based in one or two lodges.
- A week in Cape Town and the Western Cape, for beaches, wine regions and hiking in summer weather.
Best US States to Visit in December
- Hawaii for warm weather and whales.
- Florida for beaches and theme parks.
- Colorado, Utah and Vermont for skiing.
- New York for festive city lights and shows.
- California for mild coastal cities, though rain is possible.
Dates and Pricing
Prices typically rise sharply from around mid-December, drop after the New Year period, and then rise again around school breaks. Travelling in the first half of December, or staying away from the specific days around December 24 to January 1, can lower costs. If your dates are flexible, comparing flights across several days is useful. Many attractions and restaurants close on Christmas Day, so check ahead.
Looking Ahead to January
If your plans are flexible, the weeks after the holidays can be cheaper. See our guide to the best places to travel in January for ideas.
FAQ
Where to go for 7 days in December? Thailand, Mexico, Central Europe’s Christmas markets and Lapland are common choices for a week.
Which US state is best to visit in December? Hawaii and Florida for warmth, Colorado or Utah for skiing, and New York for festive atmosphere.
What are popular Christmas destinations? Vienna, Prague, Munich, Lapland, New York and Caribbean beaches are consistently popular. Check current prices and availability early.