Photo by João Barbosa on Unsplash
December brings the magic of winter and the festive allure of the holiday season. People worldwide look for unique and memorable experiences, from basking in the warm and inviting tropical sun to skating along the snowy white meadows.
Many places in the world are no less than a wonderland in December.
The capital city is immersed in a cheerful and wishful holiday spirit, with Christmas markets and decorations set up on the first of December.
The city emits charm and splendour as its streets are finessed with lights, luminous figures and the chant of carols.
The most beautiful views can be seen in the city centre. In this place, the winter decorations are at their peak. You can enjoy this view by taking the famous sightseeing red bus as your means of transport. The route passes by renowned monuments contributing to the British capital’s tourism. The bus tickets can be pre-booked according to the places you want to visit.
Some famous picturesque areas you should not miss include Regent Street, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, and the bustling Trafalgar Square.
Trafalgar Square is a public square located in Central London. It is one the liveliest spots, with one of the largest Christmas trees. The place is rich in history and is home to various museums, art galleries, and cafes.
You can stroll along the Christmas markets, grab a warm drink and buy gifts from a range of handcrafted goods.
The Winter Wonderland hosts various fun activities and is surrounded by an eccentric festive atmosphere. It is located in Hyde Park and is the largest Christmas fair in the city. There are many stalls from which to eat and shop.
You can hitch a ride in the Ferris wheel to get the best panoramic views or go for other fun activities like ice skating, merry-go-rounding, or watching the circus. To make this trip memorable, buy souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones from the Flea market.
Don’t miss out on free outdoor activities! Visit the museums and use public transport to sustain your budget.
Rome, a cultural hotspot, is the perfect city for people who enjoy history, art and architecture. Home to various monuments with a profound backstory, this place is worth a visit.
As the tourist season passes, flight tickets and hotels become cheaper, and you can spend and save according to your budget. The snow-free weather makes the capital city easy to explore and access. Some attractions you should visit in December include:
The Roman Colosseum is an amphitheatre considered one of the world’s seven wonders. You can also avoid long queues by choosing the fast-track entry ticket.
Home to around 70,000 works of art, the Vatican Museum is an abode for art enthusiasts as it accommodates the masterpieces of the Renaissance period. It also includes various art and sculptures.
This architectural marvel, designed by the famous Michelangelo, is located in Vatican City. As the world’s largest church enriched with art and relics, you might not want to miss out on this one!
You can book a guided food and wine tour and discover the city’s local food markets. The town is less crowded at this time of the year, so you can explore the city like a local for the ultimate Italian odyssey.
Italy is great for exploring on foot and saving money on your commute.
New York City in December is like a scene straight out of a movie. With pathways covered with snow and marvellous lighting displays, the city emits pure charm in its peak visiting season.
December, the peak time for travel, makes flight and hotel prices high. Making advanced bookings and budget planning are good choices. New York is known for its vibrant nightlife and extravagant Christmas parties. Some main events in December include:
Looking for a fun activity to enjoy with your family? Ice Skating in Central Park would surely be a memorable experience.
With the stunning city view as a backdrop, the park contains two ice rinks with tutoring sessions available.
The giant tree is decorated with around 50,000 LEDs, with a Swarovski star at the top, and is covered with 3 million crystals. You can pre-book your tickets to attend this dazzling affair.
Bryant Park’s Winter Village, The Grand Central Holiday Fair and The Union Square Holiday Market are the largest and most popular markets. The items here range from clothes to art and craft materials and food stalls.
Fifth Avenue is another famous spot perfect for your shopping spree, with radiant lights and decorations emitting the perfect holiday spirit.
With the city adorned with festive decorations and illuminated brick streets, Madrid is a vibrant city perfect for your holidays. The Spanish capital is known for its cultural attractions, flavourful cuisines and shopping avenues.
With the weather being sunny during the daytime and chilly in the evening, it is a good time to explore the city in December.
Want your evening to be filled with a powerful dance and music performance? The Flamenco show is a passionate performance that promises to engage the audience emotionally, irrespective of any language barrier.
Madrid is called the capital of Flamenco, making this show a must-visit for your trip.
Try the authentic Spanish hot chocolate paired with churros for the best holiday treat to fend off the winter bite.
Do not forget to try the other famous Spanish cuisine dishes in Madrid.
Serving as a home to the Spanish monarchy over the centuries, The Royal Palace is one of the major attractions in Madrid. It is one of the largest palaces in the world, with a marvellous mix of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture. It is also known to have a massive art collection.
You can visit the historic throne room, examine the royal armoury, learn about the royal pharmacy, and do many other things.
The Christmas market in the Plaza Mayor is one of the busiest and liveliest, with almost a hundred booths comprising items ranging from local designers to gourmet treats.
In addition to being a hub for tourists, the market offers the finest quality products for you to take home.
Dubai is the busiest city at this time of year, as the weather cools, making exploring the city a pleasant experience.
The futuristic city offers a variety of options to make the most of your tour. It offers much, from the most luxurious spots to outdoor safari adventures.
Global Village brings together the cultural heritage of 90 countries at a common spot, with loads of fun events, carnivals, selfie spots and dining options. You will leave with many memories!
With a remarkable pioneering establishment, the Museum of the Future provides a unique experience to empower people to reach the depths of their imagination for the time ahead.
Ensure that you check ticket availability before planning your visit.
The famous Dubai Desert Safari provides diverse offers and packages to fit your budget. Riding quad bikes, devouring Barbeque and watching traditional Arab dances along with the chilly desert atmosphere will highlight your Dubai tour.
Perfect for a romantic getaway packed with the thrills of nature, Bali is filled with beaches and safari adventures. With the wet climate in December, you can explore and fulfil your bucket list adventures while witnessing the true beauty of the place.
The island has many unique and fun-filled activities and luxurious beach resorts for the best holiday experience.
You can visit the intricately designed temples in Bali to seek blessings and engage in spiritual reflection. Some main temples include the Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Besakih Temple, and the Goa Gajah Temple.
The Bali Safari and Marine Park is an open zoo with trained animals assisted by a professional mahout, which will make this interactive session safe and fun.
It is the home to various endangered species and is filled with over a thousand animals, making this experience remarkable.
The city welcomes the new year with music, dance festivals, and fun-filled parties to celebrate with friends and family.
With a striking view and the sound of seagulls filling the air, Istanbul is popular with travellers worldwide. Known for its rich historical background, the city has architectural wonders, lively bazaars and delectable cuisines.
Some main locations you should explore include:
The Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque holds great historical significance as it is the world’s oldest and fastest-completed cathedral.
Surrounded by the sea on all three sides, you would undoubtedly be amazed by its beauty and importance since the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
This majestic reservoir is located under the streets of Sultanahmet from the Byzantine era, dating back to the 6th century.
With over 330 pillars made from marble and granite, you will be astonished to see the still-standing proof of history.
Your trip to Istanbul will be incomplete without a visit to the Misir Carsisi, with the rich, earthy smell of Middle Eastern spices wafting in the air. You can shop for Turkish coffee and common ethnic spices in Turkish households.
The Grand Bazaar is a shopping paradise with over 4000 shops. You should check out the antiques, jewellery, carpets, handbags, and other items with designs native to Turkey.
To get the best panoramic views of the city, you should visit the Galata Tower to bring the best pictures while enjoying the view of the city.
You can also devour a luxurious meal from the Tower’s restaurant.
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a heaven for travellers. With magnificent waterfalls and hike-worthy trails, Iceland has it all! The daylight stays for only four hours, and the beautiful aurora borealis decorates the night sky, creating an enchanting experience for the visitors.
Here are some main attractions you should consider visiting:
December is one of the best months to witness the northern lights. Away from the city and its light pollution, this natural phenomenon will take your breath away with its colourful dancing lights in the dark sky.
The best place to view the lights is the countryside, although it is not guaranteed that you will be able to see them during your visit.
Looking for a warm and refreshing place to take a break from the Icelandic winter? The Blue Lagoon Geothermal Sauna is the perfect place to visit. You can book a suite, utilize the retreat spa, try their skincare products, and see their abundant restaurants.
New Year’s Eve in the capital city is a unique experience for visitors as there is a fireworks show carried out by the city’s population with harmonic chants of celebration.
You can shop in Reykjavik from a blend of cultures and handcrafted goods that suit your taste.
The weather is unpredictable, so pack your clothes accordingly!
Daniela Holmes, the Vacation Designer at FROSCH, explains key trends shaping the future of December Global Tourism:
“The sky conditions in Europe in December 2023 were quite variable, depending on the region and the weather pattern. Some of the main features of the sky conditions were:
A massive heat dome developed over Europe, spreading significant warmth. This resulted in clear and sunny skies in some areas but also created a sharp temperature inversion that trapped cold and polluted air in the lowlands.
Also, several parts of Europe experienced heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, especially in the northern and eastern regions. This caused cloudy and snowy skies, travel disruptions and power outages in some places.
Some regions of Europe even faced heavy rainfall and flash floods, particularly in France and the southern Mediterranean. This led to overcast and rainy skies and increased humidity and cloud cover.
Overall, the sky conditions in Europe in December 2023 were not favourable for outdoor activities or sightseeing, as it was too hot, cold, or wet.
However, some might have enjoyed the festive Christmas markets, the snowy scenery of the ski resorts, or the mild climate of southern destinations.
Despite this, Europe is a diverse and fascinating continent that offers many travel options in December. One of the most popular reasons to visit Europe in December is to experience the magical Christmas markets in many cities and towns.
These markets offer traditional crafts, delicious food, mulled wine, and live entertainment, as well as the opportunity to admire the decorations and lights. Some of the best Christmas markets are in Nuremberg, Germany; Strasbourg, France; Vienna, Austria; and Prague, Czech Republic.
If you love winter sports, Europe has plenty of ski resorts, from the Alps to the Balkans. These resorts offer fresh powder, stunning views, cosy chalets, and activities like snowshoeing, sledging, and ice skating.
Some of the best ski resorts in Europe are in Zermatt, Switzerland; Chamonix, France; Bansko, Bulgaria; and Sölden, Austria.
Lastly, if you prefer warmer weather and fewer crowds, head to southern Europe, where the climate is milder, and the attractions are more accessible.
You can explore the cultural and historical sites, the natural beauty, and the culinary delights of these destinations and enjoy sunshine and beach time. The best are the Canary Islands, Sicily, Crete, and Malta.”
Madagascar is an island in the Indian Ocean suitable for all age groups. Its lush forests, unique wildlife, sunny beaches, and intriguing people will paint a distinctive yet accurate picture in your mind.
Some places you should add to your tour include:
The vivid capital city is overlooked due to the numerous beaches and parks nationwide. Antananarivo is worth a visit with its historical background and shopping choices.
The Rova Palace, with a view that exhibits the city; Lac Anosy, the stunning heart-shaped lake; and Independence Avenue, with an array of shops, are some places you should consider visiting while in the city.
Madagascar is home to various plant and animal species, especially lemurs. Over 90% of the wildlife is native to the country, making this unique experience memorable for you!
Some prominent national parks include:
Filled with French colonial architecture and colourful rickshaws, Antsirabe is the third-largest city in Madagascar.
It would be best to visit the serene Antsirabe cathedral, marvel at the Gare d’Antsirabe’s architecture and try their local cuisines.
Carry prescribed medication and get tests done, as there is a common risk of malaria.
Nourished with culture and suffused with grand landscapes, Scotland seems like a place straight out of the fantasy novels! The country has lights, carnivals, and events to perk up the holiday spirit.
Packed with mystic medieval castles blanketed under the snow, the capital is filled with places to witness and add to your memory. Edinburgh Castle is one of the most famous castles, with the winter season casting a magical glow on the place.
You can admire the Christmas decorations, skate on the ice rink, walk along the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens light trail and grab a drink from the local pubs, amongst many other activities.
The Isle of Skye is considered one of the best places to visit in December as the tourist season passes. From undiscovered hiking trails to enchanting icy waterfalls, the Scottish island is popular among locals and tourists.
As the weather is unpredictable and has high chances of rainfall, you should pack accordingly if you plan to check out the outdoor activities.
Inverness is the cultural capital and the largest city in the Scottish Highlands. The city is a perfect blend of ancient charm and modern glamour, full of astute scenery perfect for strolls and comfortable winter days.
You can even witness an aurora borealis if you are lucky enough to visit the city when the uncertain phenomenon is in its best form!
December brings the essence of festivals to many places in the world. At this time of the year, the world lights up with Christmas decorations and New Year celebrations, making it the perfect time for a little vacation.
Eva Metz-Tolliver, the Founder of Germany Travel Co., offers perspectives on how December traditions enhance tourist experiences, including special events, festivals, and attractions:
“I often joke that no one does Christmas like the Germans do. Nothing crystallizes this more than the traditional and festive Christmas Markets that occur during the Advent period (generally beginning at the end of November/beginning of December) in Germany.
Visitors can delight in the Christmas decorations and the sea of lights, the air filled with the scent of gingerbread, baked apples, and roasted almonds. Growing up in Germany, visits to the Christmas market were always a magical experience.
While I now live in the United States, I teach my kids the traditions I grew up with baking lots of cookies, building gingerbread houses, and lighting the Advent wreath candles (one for each of the four Advent Sundays leading up to Christmas Eve).
The tradition of lighting candles on the Christmas wreath goes back to Johann Hinrich Wichern, a German priest who oversaw an orphanage in Hamburg in 1839. He lit a candle for each Day in December in anticipation of Christmas.
On Sundays, he lit thicker candles. A similar tradition is that of the Adventkalendar, which has gained popularity in the US over the last decade.
Notably, they only have 24 doors because, in Germany, Christmas is celebrated on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas morning in the US.
Going back to the Christmas Markets, Visitors who want to see and experience those markets have many options. There are about 10 markets in the city of Munich alone! Over the years, many speciality markets have developed.
Besides the traditional ones, you can find medieval ones, where visitors can learn and immerse themselves in century-old food preparation and weaponry traditions. You can find LGTBQ+-themed ones and ones with a spin toward circus themes, to name a few.
For tourists wanting to explore Christmas traditions even further, I recommend Thuringia. Many of our Christmas rituals originated in this region, from Christmas carols (‘Oh Tannenbaum’, ‘Oh how joyful’) to glass tree ornaments and the Froebel star.
And last but not least, the first Christmas Tree is said to have been erected in Weimar in 1815.
The Christmas Tree tradition was said to have been spread by Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen, Queen consort in England for seven years, who imported the German Christmas tree to Great Britain in 1848.
Thuringia is well aware of its place in Christmas history, and visitors to this region can expect traditional crafted ware & presentations.”
“Public transit is your best friend when travelling on a budget. Trains and buses travel across cities and countries, providing a beautiful view of the scenery as you pass.
I’ve used a company like FlixBus and found fares between cities in different countries for less than $10 per person. That’s an incredible deal.
Some attractions offer discounted prices depending on the time or day.
If there’s something you know you’ll want to do, consider timing your visit earlier in the week, in the morning or midday, instead of the more popular weekend and evening times.
To save on dining, try a food tour! On my last European trip, I joined the Taste of Prague food tour and got enough good stuff to keep me full all day. It also allowed me to sample different cuisines and restaurants I probably wouldn’t have otherwise tried.”
Joey Held, Travel Writer, Wacky Travel
“December is a popular vacation time, so prices tend to be higher in many destinations. However, with careful planning and savvy strategies, you can still enjoy a budget-friendly vacation during this peak season.
Instead of staying at expensive hotels or resorts, consider alternative accommodations such as vacation rentals or homestays through websites like Airbnb or VRBO. These options often have lower prices than traditional hotels and still provide all the comforts of home.
If possible, avoid travelling during the busiest times around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, when prices are typically at their highest. Consider visiting your desired destination before or after these peak holiday periods for more affordable rates.
Research free attractions or activities in your chosen destination, such as parks, museums with free admission days or nights, or outdoor concerts and events that could help you save some money while still experiencing local culture.
With careful planning and some flexibility, you can enjoy a fun-filled December vacation without breaking the bank. Happy travels!”
Jo Larsen, Travel Blogger, Best Family Beach Vacations
“Keep your trip dates flexible. One effective tip for budget-friendly December vacations in popular destinations is to be flexible with travel dates. The busiest holiday season is usually when prices rise.
If you want to start your trip just before or after the holiday rush, change your plan to take advantage of cheaper flights, lodging, and activities.
Making reservations in the less busy shoulder season not only saves money but also allows for a more laid-back experience.
Consider travelling throughout the week as well because weekends are typically more costly.
This flexibility extends beyond just the dates; be open to last-minute deals and promotions, taking advantage of sudden price drops.
Adjusting your schedule and staying adaptable can unlock significant savings, making your December getaway to sought-after destinations both economical and enjoyable.”
Axel Hernborg, Founder and CEO, Tripplo
Head over with your friends and family to some of the most outstanding destinations in the world in December.
Guest Author: Saket Kumar
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