Best countries to visit in December - Winter 2024

Caribbean beach and lagoon. Cancun, Mexico.

December is an ideal month for travellers seeking varied experiences. Mexico boasts warm weather and opulent celebrations. Kerala’s tranquil backwaters and verdant landscapes cater to nature enthusiasts. Queenstown in New Zealand entices adventurers with summer activities. Reykjavik transforms into a winter wonderland featuring the Northern Lights. Banff, Canada, appeals to winter sports lovers. Germany's festive Christmas markets are a highlight, while Vietnam’s beaches and cultural sites, along with Italy’s mild winters and historical landmarks, make these the best countries to visit in December 2024.

Here is a List of The Best Countries to Visit in December

Whether you're snowboarding in the mountains or exploring exotic destinations, December is the perfect month for a vacation abroad. With so many options available, choosing the ideal destination can be overwhelming. To simplify your planning, this list highlights the best countries to visit in December and provides suggestions for each location to help you effortlessly organise your upcoming trip.

1. Iceland

Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes featuring glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, and waterfalls. December is particularly magical due to the enchanting Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) that illuminate the night sky. The unique winter scenery and geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon attract visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation.

• Average temperature in December: -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F)

• Important Places to Visit: 

1. Reykjavik (the capital city)

2. Blue Lagoon

3. Golden Circle (Geysir, Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park)

4. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

5. Vatnajökull National Park

• Famous Activities:

1. Northern Lights viewing

2. Glacier hiking

3. Geothermal spa visits

4. Ice cave exploration

5. Snowmobiling

• How to Reach: Keflavik International Airport (KEF) is the primary gateway for international travellers. Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide

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   2. Germany

Germany is famed for its festive Christmas markets, historic castles, and rich cultural heritage. In December, cities like Munich, Berlin, and Nuremberg transform into winter wonderlands with markets offering unique crafts, delicious food, and warm drinks.

• Average Temperature: -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F)

• Important Places to Visit: 

1. Berlin (Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall)

2. Munich (Neuschwanstein Castle, Marienplatz)

3. Nuremberg (Nuremberg Christmas Market)

4. Cologne (Cologne Cathedral)

5. Hamburg (Miniatur Wunderland)

• Famous Activities:

1. Visiting Christmas markets

2. Exploring historic sites and museums

3. Winter sports in the Bavarian Alps

4. Sampling German cuisine and beer

5. Attending classical music concerts

• How to Reach:

1. Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

2. Munich Airport (MUC)

3. Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

4. Hamburg Airport (HAM)

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  3. Mexico

Mexico offers diverse experiences, from sunny beaches to vibrant cultural festivals. December is ideal for visiting coastal resorts like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, as well as exploring historic cities such as Mexico City and Oaxaca.

• Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) depending on the region

• Important Places to Visit: 

1. Mexico City (Teotihuacan, Frida Kahlo Museum)

2. Cancun and Riviera Maya (beaches, cenotes)

3. Oaxaca (Monte Albán, local festivals)

4. Guadalajara (historic center, mariachi music)

5. Puerto Vallarta (beaches, Malecon boardwalk)

• Famous Activities:

1. Beach activities and water sports

2. Exploring ancient ruins

3. Enjoying local festivals and cuisine

4. Visiting colonial towns

5. Scuba diving and snorkeling

• How to Reach: 

1. Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

2. Cancun International Airport (CUN)

3. Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)

4. Los Cabos International Airport (SJD)

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    4. Thailand

Thailand is celebrated for its tropical beaches, ornate temples, and vibrant street life. December offers pleasant weather, making it perfect for exploring islands, indulging in Thai cuisine, and experiencing the rich cultural heritage.

• Average Temperature: 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F)

• Important Places to Visit: 

1. Bangkok (Grand Palace, Wat Arun)

2. Chiang Mai (temples, night markets)

3. Phuket (beaches, Patong Beach)

4. Krabi (Railay Beach, Phi Phi Islands)

5. Ayutthaya (historic ruins)

• Famous Activities:

1. Beach activities and water sports

2. Temple tours

3. Exploring night markets

4. Thai cooking classes

5. Island hopping

• How to Reach: 

1. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok

2. Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok

3. Phuket International Airport (HKT)

4. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)

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5.  South Africa

South Africa offers diverse landscapes, wildlife safaris, and vibrant cities. December is summer in South Africa, ideal for exploring Cape Town's beauty, enjoying safaris in Kruger National Park, and experiencing cultural sites.

• Average Temperature: 16°C to 26°C (61°F to 79°F)

• Important Places to Visit:

1. Cape Town (Table Mountain, Robben Island)

2. Johannesburg (Apartheid Museum, Soweto)

3. Kruger National Park (safari)

4. Garden Route (scenic drives, beaches)

5. Durban (Golden Mile, uShaka Marine World)

• Famous Activities:

1. Wildlife safaris

2. Hiking and nature walks

3. Wine tasting in vineyards

4. Exploring beaches

5. Visiting cultural and historical sites

• How to Reach:

1. O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg

2. Cape Town International Airport (CPT)

3. King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban

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6. Switzerland

Switzerland is a winter paradise with its stunning alpine scenery, charming villages, and world-class ski resorts. December is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the festive Christmas markets.

• Average temperature in December: -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F)

• Important Places to Visit:

1. Zurich (Bahnhofstrasse, Old Town)

2. Geneva (Lake Geneva, United Nations)

3. Lucerne (Chapel Bridge, Mount Pilatus)

4. Zermatt (Matterhorn, skiing)

5. Interlaken (adventure sports, Jungfrau region)

• Famous Activities:

1. Skiing and snowboarding

2. Christmas market visits

3. Scenic train rides

4. Hiking and snowshoeing

5. Exploring historic towns

• How to Reach:

1. Zurich Airport (ZRH)

2. Geneva Airport (GVA)

3. Basel-Mulhouse Airport (BSL)

4. Bern Airport (BRN)

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7. New Zealand

New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, from beaches to mountains and everything in between. December is summer, offering ideal weather for exploring the outdoors, from hiking in national parks to relaxing on beaches.

• Average temperature in December: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)

• Important Places to Visit: 

1. Auckland (Sky Tower, Waiheke Island)

2. Queenstown (adventure sports, Lake Wakatipu)

3. Rotorua (geothermal activity, Maori culture)

4. Wellington (Te Papa Museum, waterfront)

5. Milford Sound (fjord cruises, scenic beauty)

• Famous Activities:

1. Hiking and trekking

2. Adventure sports (bungee jumping, skydiving)

3. Exploring geothermal areas

4. Wine tasting

5. Beach activities and water sports

• How to Reach:

1. Auckland Airport (AKL)

2. Wellington Airport (WLG)

3. Christchurch Airport (CHC)

4. Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

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Conclusion

These seven destinations offer a mix of winter wonderlands, festive celebrations, and tropical getaways, ensuring that travellers can find something that suits their December vacation preferences. Each country provides unique experiences, from cultural festivals and historic sites to outdoor adventures and natural wonders.