The holiday season is here. Yes, that means higher prices and busier airports, but it also means skiing and Christmas Markets. The best places to visit in December promise plenty of cheer but aren’t all snow and Santa Claus. (Although there is a lot of that.)
In America, awesome light festivals are big in December, both manmade and celestial. Europe takes winter seriously, with mountain resorts kicking into gear. Germany, in particular, is spectacular at this time of year, its traditional Christmas markets are magic for kids and adults alike.
Asia, too, shines for sports enthusiasts. That could be taking on the ski slopes of northern Japan or running a Cambodian marathon for a great cause. You’ll find that and more adventures in my choice for the 12 best December vacations.
The best places to travel in December
Best places to ski in December
The beginning of ski season opens up lots of new places to travel in December. But it doesn’t just have to be about skiing. Most of my ski picks have other fantastic destinations close by, well worth visiting on their own.
In Japan, KAYAK’s data points to Tokyo and Osaka as popular in December with mild temperatures and mid-priced accommodation. Europe is awash with incredible cities – Paris, Barcelona and London are only a short flight from the Alps and Dolomites.
1. Val d’Isère, France
The quintessential charming mountain town, Val d’Isère is tucked away high in France’s Western Alps near the Italian border. Three hours from Lyon or Geneva, it’s part of the famed Espace Killy, a snow sports mecca. With 25,000 acres of world-class on and off-piste terrain, novice and expert skiers have their pick of runs.
As this is Europe, the après ski is every bit as important as the on-slope action. Val d’Isère has you covered, famed for its mix of luxury and hedonism. The most famous and full-on party is at hotel and bar La Folie Douce daily from 3 pm. High on the mountain slopes, you’ll hear it before you see it. Live bands play on its roof, partygoers dance in ski boots, sprayed champagne rains down from above.
If too much fizz rules out the ski down, ride the Daille gondola instead. Dropping you directly in Val d’Isère, make for family-owned institution La Rosée Blanche and a warming vin chaud.
2. Trentino, Italy
- Why visit in December? To ski two of the world’s great mountain ranges at once.
Away from Europe’s more famed ski resorts, north Italy’s Trentino region is starting to attract serious attention. Straddling the Alpine and Dolomite mountain ranges with easy access to both, it’s easy to see why.
Base yourself in lovely Pinzolo. Laid back but lively, it’s home to one of my favorite European hotels in the Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti. A destination in its own right, Lefay’s 54,000-square-foot spa is the perfect tonic to a day in the mountains.
When the snow calls, take the winding road up to Madonna di Campiglio, the gateway to the Campiglio Dolomiti di Brenta. A huge ski area, it encompasses 100 miles of runs, four snowboard parks and epic off-piste. For hardcore adrenaline junkies, guided climbing expeditions take in towering peaks and frozen waterfalls. Refuel at Rifugio Boch, an oasis of fast and fine foods, awesome views and bottomless mountain cheer.
You’ll need to fly into a major airport and drive to Trentino. There are several to choose from including Bologna and Milan, but Venice is closest.
3. Deer Valley, Utah
- Why visit in December? To show your kids the true magic of the mountains.
Few places do family-friendly winter vacations better than Utah’s Deer Valley, a short drive from Salt Lake City. A huge natural arena of resorts, trails and activities spread across six mountains and more than 100 runs. With lift passes limited to 7,500 a day, it’s never too busy and is renowned for its award-winning ski schools.
Its 2,000 acres of terrain are home to “The Greatest Snow on Earth” – a term they’ve even trademarked! With snow, slopes, and activities for every skill set, skiing and snowboarding are just part of the appeal. Try snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sleigh rides or dog sledding.
If you prefer your action less active, nearby Park City takes its shopping, eating and relaxing seriously. Focus on its historic and picturesque Main Street, overflowing with boutiques and bars, museums and restaurants. While it’s always expensive, December is the time to visit. January sees the Sundance Film Festival roll into town and prices climb higher than the surrounding peaks.
4. Niseko, Japan
- Why visit in December? For the best backcountry skiing in the world.
With the start of ski season, Niseko Village is one of the best places to travel in December. That’s partly because it still flies under the radar of many skiers, which means it’s never too busy. Even more so, it’s home to some of the best untracked adventures and off-piste trails in the world. And the powder – I’ve never seen anywhere else like it: chin deep, flour fine. Magic!
If you have an affinity for backcountry riding, Niseko should be at the top of your December destinations list. Head for the super dry and deep snowpacks around Hanazono and Miharashi. Unlike in many countries, off-piste and backcountry skiing and snowboarding is legal here.
International flights will take you to Sapporo, a two-hour drive away. While it has plenty of places to stay and things to do, it’s a bit far for those pre-crowd morning powder runs. Better to stay in Niseko itself – my go-to is always the Sekka Annupuri Lodge. Close to the Hanazono treeline and Annupuri gondola, it’s perfectly placed to put you first on the mountain.
The best places to visit in December in the US
In the winter, it’s the US East Coast that shines brightest amid KAYAK’s data-based destination picks. Alongside my inclusion of Miami, high temperatures and the holiday season in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale make Florida popular, if pricey.
Honolulu is also high in KAYAK’s data list. But with flights costing over $1,000 and accommodation averaging around $400, it’s only for the deep-pocketed.
5. Miami, Florida
- Learn more: Miami travel guide
- Why visit in December? Mix with the art world’s great and good at Art Basel Miami.
While the rest of the world turns its attention to the mountains, sunny Miami gets its art on. From December 6th to 8th, Art Basel Miami takes over.
North America’s most prestigious art event showcases modern and contemporary artworks from more than 250 galleries from around the world. Always a highlight is the Conversations series with speakers discussing big topics in the art scene.
The festival’s focal point will be the Miami Beach Convention Center. The rest of Miami won’t shy away from the limelight though. With its sprawling and vibrant street art scene, the city’s atmosphere turns electric for festival week.
Book a room at the Moxy Miami South Beach for a stylish, centrally located and just about affordable stay. Prices naturally skyrocket but with wild parties, fantastic shows, and plenty of celebs, it’s Miami at its very best.
6. Austin, Texas
- Learn more: Austin travel guide
- Why visit in December? For the enormous, historic Trail of Lights festival.
Austin is one of America’s most magical December vacation spots. With a year-round warm welcome, it has kept its small town heart despite its city status. No time is that more evident than during the holiday season, beautifully illustrated by its Trail of Lights festival.
Celebrating 59 years since its inception, the Trail of Lights has grown into one of America’s biggest festive experiences. Two million lights draped across more than 90 trees, tunnels, and displays in Zilker Park. Community led, it brings together local businesses and nonprofits with the residents to celebrate all things Austin.
As this is a party town, expect lots of live music and celebrations that continue beyond Zilker Park into the bars of downtown. Christmas bazaars and markets, ice skating and Christmas shows will ensure you leave feeling as festive as can be.
7. US Virgin Islands
It may not be mainland America, but you won’t need a passport to spend Christmas in the US Virgin Islands. December is the start of peak season in “America’s Caribbean paradise”, so expect serious celebrations across all three islands.
That means palm-fringed partying on the golden sand beaches of Saint John. Giant banquets of spiced saltfish plates washed down with colorful cocktails. On Saint Thomas, share shopping sprees on Main Street and sundowners in Frenchtown. On the rugged hills of Rock City megayacht spotting is almost a sport in its own right.
Best of all in December is Saint Croix with its month-long carnival, the Crucian Christmas Festival. Giant parades and art fares, steel bands and fire dancers and a glimpse into the island’s cultural, colonial heritage. When the festivities close, make for the restaurants of Frederiksted or go full Caribbean at the Cruzan Rum Distillery.
8. Joshua Tree National Park, California
When I visited Joshua Tree, it was to follow in the final footsteps of one of my favorite musicians, Gram Parsons. While there I discovered the joy of its inky night skies and its magnificent starscape – especially The Milky Way.
A designated Dark Sky Park, Joshua Tree will in December see an extraordinary show play out across its celestial stage. The annual Geminid meteor shower is this year predicted to peak on December 13th. This year the meteors will have to compete with an almost full moon. But even so, there will be few better places to see it in the Northern Hemisphere.
Make no mistake, it will be cold. If you want to commit, book a spot at Cottonwood Campground for easier access to the park’s eastern wilderness area. This is the darkest area, unaffected by the lights of Palm Springs. For more comfort, book a room in Twentynine Palms or Yucca Valley. And don’t forget your binoculars!
Best places to visit in December around the world
My favorite thing about December is the variety of celebrations it brings around the world. Extravagant markets, weird and wonderful festivals, charitable events of every imaginable kind.
Below are some of my favorites. For more of the best long haul places to travel in December, take a look at KAYAK’s data. Seoul and Singapore in Asia, Durban and Cape Town in South Africa, Rio and Cancún in the Americas all promise good weather and great festivities.
9. Nuremberg, Germany
Truth be told, you can head to any German city in December and you’ll find a fairytale Christmas market. I live in Cologne, which has many fantastically festive fares. But my pick for the best Christmas market in Germany is the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt.
The “little city of wood and cloth” is one of the oldest Christmas markets in the world. Taking over the city’s Main Market Square, in 2024 it’s open daily from November 29th until Christmas Eve. Incredibly atmospheric, its hundreds of wooden booths sell handmade decorations, gingerbread lebkuchen, Spekulatius almond cookies, and gallons of warming glühwein. And, of course, bratwurst – the famed German sausages can be traced back to Nuremberg in 1313!
Brilliantly set up for tourists, there are English language and self-guided tours and events everywhere. Don’t miss the colorful lantern procession to Nuremberg Castle and, if you have kids, the Kinderweihnacht party on Hans-Sachs-Platz. Frohe Weihnachten!
10. Gothenburg, Sweden
Sweden is winter made magic. In the north, Lapland, home to Santa Claus, vast herds of reindeer and the Northern Lights. For any child it has to rank as one of the best places to visit in December.
To get there you’ll likely need to fly via a major travel hub like Gothenburg, which is no bad thing. Stay a few days to get in the festive spirit at Liseberg Gardens. From November 18th to January 7th they transform into a Christmas market and playground. Liseberg theme park is particularly lovely, recast as a children’s Christmas fantasy land called Tomtebyn.
For kids, it’s an interactive treat. Navigate Santa’s Village with a map and compass to win prizes on the Elves’ Adventure. Create Christmas wish lists while snacking on festive treats in the Elves’ Cottage before feeding them into the magic wish machine in Santa’s Workshop.
While the kids play, adults can too. In 2024, a new winter market is being unveiled complete with free ice rink and Blossa Ice Bar. Skate, sink a few mulled wines and feast on local delicacy Kolbulle, a charcoal bun cooked over open fire with salted pork and lingonberry jam.
11. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Regularly cited as the world’s most popular tourist attraction, Angkor Wat rightly tops many travel wish lists. Arrive early before the masses to witness the sun rise above it through the morning mist and you’ll understand why. For that, you’ll need to base yourself in nearby Siem Reap, a great city in its own right.
Angkor Wat is the star though. It feels enormous and everlasting, impassive to time and tourism. A 900-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site ready to be explored. Walk its halls and it’s almost impossible not to imagine yourself as an adventurous archaeologist straight out of the movies.
On December 1st, something extraordinary will take place. An annual half marathon supporting victims of antipersonnel mines in Cambodia sees thousands of runners replace slow paced tourists. It’s a wonderful way for visitors to give back and spread some cheer. To get a unique take on this extraordinary attraction and join the run, register before October 30th.
12. Chitral, Pakistan
- Why visit in December? To see one of the world’s least visited festivals.
Sometimes it’s worth committing to an adventure to see something extraordinary. A December journey to Chitral deep in the Kalash Valley in northern Pakistan is just such an adventure.
For two weeks over the winter solstice, Chawmos, the Winter Festival of the Kalash people transforms this peaceful valley. The first week of the festival is for villagers only, but the second week is open to the public. Although few have been. Music and dancing, religious rituals and goat sacrifices, feasting and drinking continue for days.
This is the most important time of year for the Kalash, when life, the gods and ancestors are celebrated in a weeklong party. It’s not for the faint-hearted but it is a privilege to be a part of it. You can book it yourself, but it’s easier to use a reputable tour company to book your transport and accommodation.
This part of the world is also home to the rarely seen snow leopard. Consider adding a side expedition to try and see one in the wild, a privilege enjoyed by a rare few.
Data-backed picks from KAYAK
If seasonal events aren’t on your wish list, consider instead one of data-based destinations. These destinations are based on KAYAK flight and hotel data, taking into account budget, weather, and popularity (so you can avoid the crowds). For personalized recommendations based on your location and chosen destination check out the Best Time to Travel tool.
The following information refers to the destinations listed in the table.
Recommendation ranking within table:
Our recommendation ranking of where to go is calculated based on average flight prices, average hotel prices, popularity, average temperature, and average precipitation. Flight prices, hotel prices, popularity, and precipitation constitute inverse factors, the less the better. Average temperature optimal values are taken as the median for the destination, and a difference is calculated for the month from this reference point. The smaller the difference the more desirable the city is to visit in this month. This temperature factor is weighed double as much as popularity and precipitation.
From the ranked destination lists, destination exclusions may have been applied in cases of insufficient data or according to the official travel advisory at the time when the data analysis was conducted.
Flight and hotel prices:
Average prices are estimated from KAYAK internal data from search period ‘2024-02-01’ to ‘2024-04-15’ for travel period ‘2024-09’ – ‘2024-12’. Flight prices include economy class return trips for one traveler, and hotel prices represent 3 stars or below hotels’ nightly rates for a standard double room. Price insights are subject to vary depending on exact departure airport and over time as travel dates are approaching.
Popularity:
Monthly crowd estimates for each destination are determined by internal flight and hotel search data. This incorporates the latest historical insights from the past year collected on ‘2024-01-15’. For each destination, this popularity estimate is pulled for the particular month to gauge where it might not be too crowded.
Weather (average monthly temperature and precipitation):
Weather data is pulled from a third-party site, Weatherbase, and has not been verified by KAYAK. Monthly average temperature and precipitation data is based on historical insights from the past 102 years. Weatherbase data is updated in real-time from the US Census Bureau and other databases worldwide.
Discover more great places to travel
December is the start of peak season travel. You’ll pay higher prices and find bigger crowds, but the festivals and celebrations are usually worth it. For shoulder season sun with fewer tourists, check my guides to the best places to visit in November and January. And if it’s sun you’re after, here’s where it’s hot in November and December.
Whenever and wherever you go, cheap flights, trains, car rental and somewhere great to stay is what KAYAK does best.