Top 7 Travel Destinations for December Gems Revealed
December is a great time to travel. You can find winter wonderlands or warm places. It's perfect for finding unique gifts in Morocco or seeing the Northern Lights in Lapland. Try camel rides in the Sahara or skiing in Whistler. December is full of amazing travel ideas.
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9/29/20249 min read
Key Takeaways
December offers a diverse array of unique holiday travel spots, perfect for memorable getaways.
Experience magical winter atmospheres or escape to sun-soaked paradises.
Indulge in festive markets, scenic tours, and adventurous activities.
Discover destinations like Lapland for the Northern Lights or Whistler for skiing.
Find warm retreats in Dubai, Maldives, and Mexico for a tropical December escape.
Why December Is the Ideal Time for a Getaway
December is a magical month. It's full of celebration, reflection, and a great chance to take a break. You can find calm December vacation spots, lively holiday travel destinations, or beautiful top winter destinations. December is perfect for a memorable trip.
In December, the world is full of festive fun and special sights. For example, the Art Basel Miami Beach happens from December 8–10. It shows off art from famous and new artists. It's a big part of December's culture.
Places like Whistler, Canada are great for skiing. They have lots of ski areas. It's a top spot for winter sports.
Some places, like the Azores, stay warm in December. Temperatures rarely go below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It's a nice change from cold places.
December is also a good time to see holiday travel destinations without the crowds. You can explore Yellowstone by snowcoaches and snowmobiles. Or take scenic train rides in Switzerland.
Winter festivals and events make December even more special. The Christmas market in Salzburg, Austria, is over 500 years old. It's a beautiful place to visit.
St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands has a Crucian Christmas Festival in December. It's filled with local traditions and fun.
Belize is great for nature lovers on World Wildlife Conservation Day, December 4. It's a big moment for Belize's ocean conservation.
So, check out December vacation spots and holiday travel destinations. Places like Charleston, South Carolina, and Santiago, Chile, have cool weather. December offers something special for everyone, from cultural events in Rome, Paris, and Venice to the calm beaches of the Maldives and St. Barth’s.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland is the heart of Finnish winter magic. It invites travelers to a magical experience. This place offers Lapland winter experiences that are truly special. It's the home of Santa Claus, perfect for families looking for a holiday adventure.
Experience the Magic of the Northern Lights
Seeing the Northern Lights is a top activity in Lapland. About 30% of Finland is in the Arctic Circle. This makes it great for seeing the aurora borealis.
The "aurora zone" in Finnish Lapland is between 65 and 72 degrees north. This area makes it easier to see the Northern Lights. Northern Lights tours let you watch the lights dance in the Arctic sky.
"Snow-covered Lapland landscape at twilight, shimmering northern lights dancing across the sky, cozy wooden cabins with smoke curling from chimneys, pine trees adorned with glistening snow, a serene frozen lake reflecting the vibrant colors above, soft white snowflakes gently falling."
Top Hotels in Lapland
Lapland has many unique places to stay. You can sleep in glass igloos and see the Northern Lights. Or, try the Arctic SnowHotel with its ice rooms and glass igloos.
Log cabins and igloo stays are available. Lapland's hotels offer something for everyone.
Activities for the Whole Family
Lapland is great for family-friendly travel destinations. It has activities for all ages. Dog sledding and snowmobiling are exciting in Rovaniemi.
Exploring Sami culture and visiting reindeer farms is fun. Kids love Santa Claus Village, near Rovaniemi. It's full of magic and festive fun. Winter sports like skiing and ice fishing are also available.
A cozy family cabin in Lapland, Finland, surrounded by snow-covered pine trees, with a gentle snowfall creating a magical winter atmosphere, children playing with sleds in the foreground, soft warm light glowing from the cabin windows, twinkling fairy lights adorning the trees, and the Northern Lights illuminating the night sky above.
There's more than just activities. Enjoy Finnish saunas and try local food like Souvas and Arctic Char. Lapland is especially lively in December, making it the best time to visit.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is magical in December. It's full of culture and history. You'll find Christmas markets, historic sights, and fancy places to stay.
Christmas Markets
The city lights up with decorations and markets in December. The Wiener Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz is one of the best. You can try Glühwein, Maroni, and more.
A picturesque winter scene in Vienna, Austria, showcasing festive holiday decorations, twinkling lights adorning historic architecture, a bustling Christmas market with wooden stalls selling handcrafted goods, and people enjoying mulled wine under a large beautifully lit Christmas tree in the background. Snow gently falling, creating a magical atmosphere, with warm golden hues reflecting off the buildings.
Other markets like Am Hof and Schönbrunn Palace are also great. They have special ornaments and drinks. Your trip will be unforgettable.
Historic Sights
Vienna's sights are amazing. See the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. At Schönbrunn, try strudel and listen to Mozart.
Don't miss the Naschmarkt. It's near main sights. You can also go to Salzburg and Hallstatt for more fun.
Where to Stay in Vienna
Vienna has many fancy hotels. Stay in the city center for easy access to markets and sights.
The Vienna Card makes travel easy. It gives you free rides and discounts. Your trip will be fun and full of culture.
Whistler, Canada
Whistler is in the heart of British Columbia. It's famous for its charm, beautiful views, and fun activities.
A picturesque winter scene in Whistler, Canada, featuring snow-covered mountains, cozy wooden chalets adorned with twinkling lights, a group of skiers gliding down pristine slopes, tall pine trees laden with snow, and a crystal-clear blue sky.
World-Class Skiing
Whistler Blackcomb is huge and exciting. It has over 4,757 acres of skiing. There are 36 lifts and more than 200 runs.
Adult day passes start at $123 CAD in pre-season. They go up to $299 CAD in regular season. The Bubly Tube Park is fun for families at about $100 CAD for an hour.
Après-Ski Activities
Whistler has lots to do after skiing. You can find bars, great food, and events. The Whistler Film Festival happens in early December.
The Whistler Holiday Experience is free and fun. It has mini-golf, table games, and bouncy castles. The Family Apres event has snow sculpting, ice skating, and music.
Top Accommodation
Choosing where to stay is key for a great trip. Whistler has many places to stay, from fancy resorts to cozy chalets. Many places let you ski right to your door.
Winter packages in Whistler make planning easy. They include lodging, rentals, and ski school. You can also get food delivered, making your trip worry-free.
New York City, USA
New York City is the ultimate December vacation spot!
December in New York City is magical. It's filled with holiday attractions and experiences. The city becomes a winter wonderland, making it a top December spot.
Iconic Holiday Celebrations
New York City's holiday attractions are world-famous. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see. It's 100 feet tall and has a 550-pound Swarovski Star.
The tree shines with 50,000 LED lights. It draws many visitors each year. The Saks 5th Ave Holiday Light Show is another NYC December experience. It runs every ten minutes and lasts about five minutes.
Central Park becomes a winter paradise in December. Visitors can skate on its ice rinks and see the snow. The Union Square Holiday Market has over 100 booths with handmade gifts and treats.
Must-Visit Attractions
New York City has many holiday attractions. Giant red ornaments at 1251 6th Avenue are perfect for photos. They've even become a popular spot for engagement proposals.
The festive atmosphere is everywhere. Cultural sites like Saint Patrick's Cathedral are a tranquil retreat. The FAO Schwarz Toy Store is crowded but full of holiday spirit.
Accommodation Options
New York City offers many places to stay. Historic hotels like the Bryant Park Hotel are luxurious. They cost about $500 a night during Christmas.
Modern hotels like Rolf's Christmas Bar and Frosty's Christmas Bar offer unique stays. Frosty's has a $40 cover charge for its basement club. It's an unforgettable festive experience.
Whether you're ice skating, visiting the Union Square Holiday Market, or seeing Central Park in snow, NYC December is unforgettable. It's one of the best places to visit in December.
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum, Mexico, is great for those wanting a relaxing and adventurous December getaway. It has white sandy beaches, blue waters, and a rich history. It's perfect for unwinding and exploring historical spots.
"Tulum beach with soft white sand, turquoise waters gently lapping at the shore, lush palm trees swaying in a gentle breeze, colorful beach loungers under straw umbrellas, ancient Mayan ruins in the background, vibrant sunset casting warm hues across the sky"
Pristine Beaches
Tulum's beaches are known for their beauty. You can relax on the sand or swim in clear waters. There are cabanas for rent, from $30 to $75 per person.
Winter in Tulum is warm, with temperatures around 28°C. It also gets less rain than other times of the year.
Historical Sites
Tulum has many historical spots to visit. The Tulum Ruins are a must-see. They show Mayan history and offer great views.
Visiting costs 70 pesos, or about $4. It's a cheap and educational trip.
Best Places to Stay
Tulum has many places to stay, from luxury hotels to cozy villas. Luxury hotels cost over $300 a night. But, there are also affordable options.
Winter in Tulum is warm, with temperatures around 28°C. It has 10 hours of daylight, making it perfect for exploring.
Tulum, Mexico, is ideal for December escapes. It has beautiful beaches, historical sites, and great places to stay.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a place where luxury meets adventure. It's in the United Arab Emirates. Here, you can shop in big malls or go on desert tours. Dubai has something for everyone.
Shopping and Sightseeing
Dubai Mall is the biggest shopping center in the world. It has over 1,200 stores. You can also shop at Mall of the Emirates, with over 630 brands.
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower. The Museum of the Future shows off new tech. And, Ain Dubai is the world's tallest Ferris wheel.
"Stunning sunset over Dubai's golden desert, featuring rolling sand dunes, a vintage 4x4 vehicle driving through the landscape, camels grazing nearby, and a backdrop of the iconic Burj Khalifa in the distance, with vibrant colors reflecting off the sand."
Desert Safari
Dubai desert tours are exciting. You can go dune bashing, ride camels, and sandboard. For a special evening, try Sonara Camp for a sunset dinner.
For a calm visit, go to Sadeem desert café. Or, book Caia Bamboo for a peaceful desert dinner.
Top Hotels in Dubai
Dubai has many hotels for luxury stays. You can choose the Burj Al Arab for modern luxury. Or, stay at a desert resort for a traditional feel.
For easy access to attractions, stay near Downtown Dubai. You'll be close to the Dubai Fountain and theme parks like Motiongate Dubai.
The Maldives
The Maldives has 1,192 coral islands in 26 atolls. It's a top spot for luxury vacations. You can find overwater bungalows and amazing snorkeling and diving spots here. The best time to visit is from November to April.
Overwater Bungalows
Overwater bungalows in the Maldives are very special. They let you see the ocean right below. Places like Jumeirah Vittaveli Maldives and Paradise Island Resort have private pools and glass floors.
Snorkeling and Diving
The Maldives is great for snorkeling and diving. Banana Reef is a top spot for divers. It has lots of coral and sea life. Snorkeling here is amazing, with clear water.
Resort Recommendations
There's a resort for everyone in the Maldives. Whether you're on your honeymoon or with your family, there's something for you. Here are some top resorts:
The Maldives is perfect for a tropical getaway. It has beautiful snorkeling and diving spots. Plus, there are many luxurious places to stay. It's great for adventure or just relaxing.
Conclusion
December is full of exciting travel spots. You can see the magic of Lapland, Finland, or the festive vibe of Vienna, Austria. Each place offers a special experience.
Do you love skiing? Try Whistler, Canada. Or maybe you want to see New York City's holiday lights? Each place is unforgettable.
Looking for warmth? Tulum, Mexico, or Dubai, UAE, are perfect. The Maldives has beautiful waters for snorkeling. And its overwater bungalows are peaceful.
Our list has something for everyone. You can ice skate in the desert or relax in a beachfront suite. It's all about making memories.
Traveling in December is special. You can snorkel with sharks or make gingerbread houses. It's a mix of local fun and holiday cheer.
When you plan your trip, think about what you want. Each place has its own story. Make your vacation one to remember.