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10 places to go in December

Wondering where is best to go in December? Whether you want some warm winter sun or a complete change of scenery, we’re sure you’ll find something to inspire you.
Updated: 16 July 2026
Updated by: Aleesha Sharma, Copywriter at Explore Worldwide
 

Looking at where to go in December can feel overwhelming – there are so many choices depending on what you’re after. Whether you’re seeking a family adventure, a spot of winter sun, or simply want a complete escape from everything, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in December.

From Madeira to the Maldives, here’s where you can make the most of a December getaway.


At a glance

 

1. North Cyprus

Ideal for: walking & trekking
Top trip to book in December: Walking in Northern Cyprus

With year-round sunshine and mild winter temperatures, Northern Cyprus makes for an excellent December destination. For a European walking holiday in December, get off the beaten track and head to the Besparmak Mountains. You’ll follow quiet mountain trails adorned with pretty flora and fauna and be spoiled by panoramic views of the cobalt-blue Mediterranean Sea. Finish a day’s trekking with a well-earned feast of traditional mezes. 
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2. Morocco

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in December: Best of Morocco

Morocco's year-round warm, sunny climate makes it an ideal destination for winter sun. Take advantage of quieter venues on our whistle-stop tour around the must-see sights as well as the lesser-known gems of Morocco. Dive into a labyrinth of colourful market stalls in the bustling souks of Marrakech and pick up a unique souvenir in the artisan medina of Fes. Ride over the mighty dunes of the Sahara Desert by camelback and enjoy cooler temperatures in the remote Middle Atlas Mountains at this time of year.
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3. Madeira

Ideal for: walking & trekking
Top trip to book in December: Walking in Madeira

With mild temperatures throughout the winter, Madeira is an idyllic walking-tour destination for those looking to escape sweltering heat. On a walking tour of Madeira, you’ll work your way around the twisting network of ancient footpaths, exploring lush Laurel forests and the charming capital, Funchal. Better still, Madeira comes alive during the festive season with Christmas markets and sparkling fireworks to welcome in the New Year.
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4. Maldives

Ideal for: boat journeys
Top trip to book in December: Maldive Dhoni Cruise

Avoid the wet monsoon season and set sail on a Maldives dhoni cruise. The climate makes it one of the best times to visit, whether you want to treat yourself to an exotic Christmas or upgrade your New Year celebrations. Take a break from everyday life as you float along turquoise waters and explore unspoilt palm-fringed beaches. Dive below the surface for a vibrant display of coral reefs, tropical fish, manta rays, and turtles before reclining on deck to watch the pink glow of the sun dip over the horizon.
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5. Sri Lanka

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in December: Sri Lanka in Depth

Sri Lanka has good temperatures all year round, and our small group tour travels along the west and south of the island, avoiding the wet season in the northeast. On our Sri Lanka tour, you'll uncover the highlights of the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean' at a relaxed pace, hike up Adam's Peak for a spectacular view, enjoy a jeep safari in search of leopards and elephants, and go whale-watching (you’re likely to spot blue whales in December!). 
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6. Jordan

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in December: Jordan Discovery

Avoid the crowds by visiting Jordan in December, as popular historic sites are noticeably quieter at this time of year. Go back in time and explore the ‘rose-red city’ of Petra, with its majestic buildings, monuments, and tombs carved into the blush-coloured desert rocks. Get an iconic view of Al-Khazneh, or ‘The Treasury,’ a well-preserved 1st-century temple towering over 43 metres high.
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A grand, ancient stone facade with intricate carvings stands majestically under a bright blue sky, framed by dark rock walls resembling a cave entrance, in a desert landscape.

7. Thailand

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in December: Upgraded - Discover Northern Thailand

Thailand is a popular choice for travellers looking for places to go in December. Celebrate Christmas with an unforgettable trip to Bangkok’s bright lights and the remote tranquillity of Northern Thailand. Explore the jungle on foot and by bamboo rafts on the River Kwai, meet locals and enjoy a hearty traditional meal at a village homestay, and witness elephants splash around in the river at the Elephant Nature Park.
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8. Vietnam

Ideal for: families
Top trip to book in December: Family Discover Vietnam

December marks the start of the dry season for southern and northern Vietnam, with cooler temperatures making it an ideal time to visit. Gather the family for an action-packed tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll kayak around the island cliffs of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Halong Bay, sleep on board an overnight train to Hue, and leisurely cycle through Vietnam's lush countryside.
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9. Baltic states

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in December: Baltic Capital Cities

December is the most magical time of year to visit the capital cities of the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). There's no better place to spend Christmas Eve than in Riga, where the tradition of trimming the tree began. Fully embrace the festive spirit with our 2026 / 2027 Christmas itinerary, where you'll visit the Riga Christmas Market and celebrate Christmas with a three-course meal among new friends in Tallinn.
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10. India

Ideal for: wildlife
Top trip to book in December: India Tiger Safari

Avoid the intensity of summer with a trip to India in December. Cooler temperatures make wildlife tours much more pleasant for game drives, and sightings of Bengal tigers are more frequent in the winter months. Journey into the heartland of India to search for tigers in Bandhavgarh, home to the highest population density of tigers in the world. Spot other wildlife on jeep safaris through Kahna (the inspiration behind The Jungle Book!).
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Plan your December trip now

If you're looking for a festive getaway or simply need an end-of-year escape, December offers plenty of options to choose from.

Beyond the destinations and trips mentioned in this article, we have an extensive range of tours available with departures in December.

Discover all December departures

Other ideas for this time of year

10 places to go in November
Wondering where is best to go in November? Discover our destination recommendations, from festivals in Bhutan to trekking in Patagonia.

10 places to go in January
Whether you want a winter-sun adventure, a cultural discovery tour, or an active holiday here are our top ten suggestions for a trip in January.

Where to go? Our recommendations by month
Looking for a trip for a specific time but need some inspiration on where to go? Check out our recommendations for the best place to go by month.
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