Best places to visit in December

What are the best places to visit in December?

As the year winds down and the days grow short, December opens up a world of ways to get away. It's a month with something for everyone: you can chase the sun on a beach and steal a warm-weather escape in the dead of winter, or lean into the season and soak up the markets and festive glow of a European capital. Whichever way you're leaning, if you're wondering about the best places to visit in December, there's a fit for every kind of traveler.

Why December is worth it

A December trip comes with real upsides. Many popular spots feel calmer than they do at peak season, so you get a more genuine, unhurried experience. In plenty of places the weather stays comfortably mild, sometimes downright warm, and easy to explore in without summer's heat bearing down. And with softer demand in the right destinations, cheap December getaways are well within reach, letting your budget stretch further. It's the ideal moment to grab a deal and steal a well-earned break before the holiday rush hits full swing.

Best travel destinations in December

Beach Getaways

Dreaming of white sand and turquoise water? December is a fantastic time to break for a summer paradise. Leave the cold behind and soak up the warm temperatures that destinations like the ones below have on offer.

Sharm el-Sheikh

Perched on Egypt's Red Sea coast, Sharm el-Sheikh serves up sunshine and warm water all year long. It's a prime spot for diving and snorkeling among its spectacular coral reefs. Come December, the temperature is just right for a desert safari, a dip in the sea, or a lazy stretch of poolside downtime.

Flights to Sharm el-Sheikh Hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh

Agadir

With its sweeping crescent beach and mild weather even in December, Agadir is a great pick in Morocco. It's ideal for anyone after a laid-back beach vacation with a side of culture, from lively souks to seriously good Moroccan cooking.

Flights to Agadir Hotels in Agadir

Cape Town

Since it's summer in the Southern Hemisphere, Cape Town, South Africa, is bathed in sunshine come December. Ride the cable car up Table Mountain, unwind on gorgeous beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay, or spend an afternoon at the V&A Waterfront. It's a dream for outdoor adventures and wild, sweeping scenery.

Flights to Cape Town Hotels in Cape Town

Culture & History

For travelers who gravitate toward historic destinations, a deep cultural dive is the whole point. Poking around museums and markets and getting to know one-of-a-kind local traditions is the name of the game, and December is an ideal time to do it, with wonderfully comfortable temperatures for exploring.

Havana

December is one of the best stretches to get to know Havana, Cuba, when the warm, dry weather invites you to savor every corner of the city. Between the cobbled streets and colonial facades, you can explore Old Havana, cruise the iconic Malecón, tuck into the local food, and soak up its unmistakable musical spirit. It's a singular blend of history, art, and Caribbean life that leaves a mark on everyone who visits.

Flights to Havana Hotels in Havana

Fez

Fez, in Morocco, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities anywhere, thanks to its labyrinthine Fez el-Bali medina. December brings cooler temperatures that are ideal for exploring the ancient tanneries, the intricate mosques, and the bustling souks, immersing yourself in traditional Moroccan life.

Flights to Fez Hotels in Fez

Zanzibar

December in Zanzibar is pure paradise: white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and warm weather made for switching off. Beyond the coast, the island holds a rich cultural heritage you'll feel while wandering the lanes of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or exploring the spice markets and tropical forests. It's an exotic mix of nature, history, and rest in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Flights to Zanzibar Hotels in Zanzibar

North African Charm

Discover the singular appeal of North Africa in December, where ancient history meets vibrant culture under pleasantly mild skies. These cities serve up a fascinating mix of tradition, architecture, and warm hospitality.

Tangier

Tangier, in Morocco, is a city overflowing with history and a captivating mix of Moroccan and European influences. In December, the mild weather is perfect for exploring the Kasbah, browsing the busy Grand Socco, and taking in sweeping views across the Strait of Gibraltar.

Flights to Tangier Hotels in Tangier

Tunis

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, offers a journey through ancient ruins and vibrant modern life. December delivers pleasant temperatures for exploring the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bardo Museum with its stunning Roman mosaics, and the nearby archaeological site of Carthage.

Flights to Tunis Hotels in Tunis

Algiers

Algiers, the capital of Algeria, is a city of white buildings tumbling down the hills toward the Mediterranean. In December the weather is mild, ideal for exploring the historic Casbah, visiting the Notre-Dame d'Afrique basilica, and taking in the city's distinctive blend of French and Arab architecture.

Flights to Algiers Hotels in Algiers

City & Coast

Get the best of both worlds with a December vacation that pairs city exploring with laid-back coastal vibes. These destinations span a wide range of experiences, from historic downtowns to beautiful waterfront promenades.

Oran

Oran, in Algeria, is a bustling port city with a rich history and a lively feel. December brings mild weather that's ideal for exploring its colonial architecture, climbing to Santa Cruz Fort for the views, and diving into the local seafood and music scene.

Flights to Oran Hotels in Oran

Toulouse

Toulouse, in France, known as the "Pink City" for its terracotta buildings, makes for a charming European break in December. It may be cold, but the city comes alive with festive lights and markets, and you can explore its striking basilica, canals, and aerospace attractions.

Flights to Toulouse Hotels in Toulouse

Bordeaux

A French city world-famous for its wine, Bordeaux also makes for a beautiful urban getaway in December. Take in its elegant 18th-century architecture, tour world-class wine museums, and enjoy the festive buzz downtown. It's a perfect pick for anyone who loves good food and good wine.

Flights to Bordeaux Hotels in Bordeaux

Far-Flung Escapes

Whether you're craving tropical heat or a genuine winter-wonderland experience, these varied destinations scratch both itches in December.

Colombo

Colombo, in Sri Lanka, delivers a tropical escape in December, with warm, sunny weather that's perfect for browsing the busy markets, admiring the colonial architecture, and diving into the vibrant street-food scene. It's also a great launchpad for exploring the island's many attractions.

Flights to Colombo Hotels in Colombo

Koh Samui

Koh Samui, in Thailand, is an island paradise that shifts to drier, sunnier weather in December, which makes it ideal for beach lovers. Kick back on pristine sand, chase down lush waterfalls, or dip into the lively nightlife. It's a perfect option for a luxe tropical escape.

Flights to Koh Samui Hotels in Koh Samui

Tromsø

For a true winter-wonderland experience, Tromsø, in Norway, is the place to be in December. Set inside the Arctic Circle, it's one of the best spots on earth to catch the magical Northern Lights, take a dog-sledding trip, or explore the Arctic landscape.

Flights to Tromsø Hotels in Tromsø

How to save on your December trip

Book ahead for the holidays

December, especially around Christmas and New Year's, is a busy time to travel. Booking your December vacation well in advance is key to locking in better prices and availability.

Dodge the peak days

If you can, steer clear of the busiest travel days right before and after Christmas and New Year's. Shifting your departure or return by a few days can trim costs meaningfully and help you land a cheap December trip.

Bundle flight and hotel

Booking your flight and hotel together through eDreams often adds up to serious savings compared with buying them separately. Hunt for December travel deals or vacation packages to get the best value.

Look past the obvious spots

The famous festive cities are appealing, but exploring destinations that aren't on everyone's radar can turn up fantastic value and unique experiences, helping you figure out where to travel in December on a tighter budget.

Let the fares find you

Use eDreams' price-alert feature for the destinations you have your eye on. We'll flag you when fares fall, so you don't miss a great deal on your December trip.

Plan your December trip the easy way with eDreams

At eDreams, our goal is simple: take the stress out of trip planning so you can focus on the fun part. It all comes down to three things we've built the experience around, keeping it convenient, giving you plenty of choice, and earning your trust.

All-in-one platform

Flights, hotels, vacation packages, and rental cars all live in one place, so you can pull your whole trip together without hopping between sites.

Exclusive deals with eDreams Prime

Sign up for eDreams Prime and tap into deeper savings plus members-only discounts across a huge range of flights and hotels.

24/7 support

Got a question or need to tweak something? Our customer service team is reachable any time of day or night, whenever you need a hand.

Flexible options

With a range of flexible booking choices on offer, you can travel easy knowing there's room to adjust if plans shift.

Ready to plan your December escape?

Why let December go by without a trip to look forward to? Whether it's a beach vacation soaking up the sun or a festive break in a European capital, eDreams brings together everything you need to make it happen. Explore the best travel destinations in December, snap up a deal worth grabbing, and start your search today. Your ideal getaway is only a few clicks away.

FAQs

Is December a good time for a cheap vacation?

Yes, December is widely regarded as a great time for a cheap vacation. It lands outside the peak summer season and, if you avoid the days right around Christmas and New Year's, you can find lower prices on flights and hotels.

Where are the warmest places to travel in December?

For warmth in December, consider destinations like Sharm el-Sheikh, Agadir, or Cape Town, where it's summer. These spots usually deliver pleasant to hot temperatures.

What kind of vacation is best in December?

December suits all sorts of trips, from beach escapes to warm climates and cultural tours in quieter cities to adventure travel where the weather is easier for exploring. It's also a wonderful month for festive city breaks.

Is it a good idea to travel in December?

Yes, traveling in December is a great idea. Outside the busiest holiday days you'll enjoy fewer crowds, often lower prices, and pleasant weather in many destinations.