December is a magical time to travel, whether you’re seeking a traditional snowy Christmas or a sun-soaked holiday escape. Here’s a curated list of the top 15 Best Countries To Visit In December For Christmas, offering a blend of festive cheer, cultural experiences, and unique holiday traditions.
Why Travelling In Christmas?
Traveling during Christmas can be a great way to escape the stress of daily life and create lasting memories. It offers the chance to reconnect with family or friends, experience new cultures, and embrace holiday traditions.
For many, it’s a time for relaxation, reflection, and bonding in a festive environment. However, it’s not without its challenges: crowded airports, high prices, and unpredictable weather can make it stressful.
If you’re planning to travel, weigh the rewards of family connection, unique experiences, and holiday cheer against the potential chaos. Choose wisely to make it worth the hassle.
Best Countries To Visit In December For Christmas:
1. Austria – Vienna
Why Go: Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during December, with its historic Christmas markets, classical music concerts, and festive lights.
Highlights:
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Visit the renowned Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz.
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Enjoy a performance of The Nutcracker at the Vienna State Opera.
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Savor traditional Austrian pastries like Sachertorte.
Travel Tip: Book tickets for concerts and opera performances in advance, as they sell out quickly during the holiday season.
2. Germany – Nuremberg
Why Go: Germany is famed for its Christmas markets, and Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous.
Highlights:
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Explore the medieval Nuremberg Castle.
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Try local specialties like Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread cookies.
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Enjoy the festive atmosphere with mulled wine and handcrafted ornaments.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the market at a leisurely pace.
3. Finland – Lapland
Why Go: Lapland offers a true winter wonderland experience, complete with snow-covered landscapes and the chance to meet Santa Claus.
Highlights:
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Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.
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Experience the Northern Lights in Abisko National Park.
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Enjoy activities like reindeer sleigh rides and snowshoeing.
Travel Tip: Dress in layers to stay warm during outdoor activities in sub-zero temperatures.
4. United States – New York City
Why Go: New York City is iconic during the holiday season, with its elaborate window displays, ice skating rinks, and festive lights.
Highlights:
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See the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
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Ice skate at Bryant Park or Central Park.
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Shop at the holiday markets in Union Square and Columbus Circle.
Travel Tip: Expect large crowds; plan visits to major attractions early in the day to avoid long lines.
5. France – Strasbourg
Why Go: Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas,” boasting one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets.
Highlights:
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Wander through the Christkindelsmärik, featuring over 300 stalls.
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Admire the Strasbourg Cathedral’s stunning architecture.
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Enjoy Alsatian specialties like tarte flambée and mulled wine.
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour along the Ill River for picturesque views of the city.
6. United Kingdom – London
Why Go: London offers a blend of traditional and modern holiday experiences, from historic markets to festive light displays.
Highlights:
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Visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for rides and markets.
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See the Christmas lights on Oxford and Regent Streets.
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Attend a Christmas Eve service at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Travel Tip: Use public transportation to navigate the city efficiently during the busy holiday season.
7. Czech Republic – Prague
Why Go: Prague’s medieval charm is enhanced by its festive Christmas markets and historic architecture.
Highlights:
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Explore the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets.
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Visit Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
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Sample Czech holiday treats like trdelník and hot wine.
Travel Tip: Be prepared for cold weather; pack warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
8. Sweden – Kiruna
Why Go: Kiruna offers a unique Arctic experience with a high chance of snow on Christmas Day.
Highlights:
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Stay in the Icehotel, a world-famous ice structure.
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Visit Abisko National Park for Northern Lights viewing.
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Learn about Sámi culture and reindeer herding.
Travel Tip: Plan activities in advance, as options may be limited due to the remote location.
9. Iceland – Reykjavik
Why Go: Iceland’s unique landscapes and festive traditions make it a memorable Christmas destination.
Highlights:
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Experience the Christmas markets in Reykjavik.
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Soak in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters.
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Chase the Northern Lights in Thingvellir National Park.
Travel Tip: Check the aurora forecast and weather conditions regularly for the best chance to see the Northern Lights.
10. Denmark – Copenhagen
Why Go: Copenhagen is known for its hygge atmosphere, especially during the Christmas season.
Highlights:
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Visit Tivoli Gardens, beautifully decorated for Christmas.
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Explore the Christmas markets at Nyhavn and Højbro Plads.
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Enjoy Danish pastries and hot chocolate.
Travel Tip: Dress warmly and embrace the cozy indoor spaces to enjoy the hygge experience.
11. Thailand – Chiang Mai
Why Go: Chiang Mai offers a unique blend of Thai culture and festive celebrations during December.
Highlights:
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Attend the Yi Peng Lantern Festival (if dates align).
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Visit the Doi Suthep Temple for panoramic views.
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Explore the vibrant night markets.
Travel Tip: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
12. Mexico – Merida
Why Go: Merida is a colonial city with rich Mayan heritage, offering a warm December escape.
Highlights:
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Explore the cenotes and archaeological sites nearby.
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Stroll through the Plaza Principal and Paseo de Montejo.
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Enjoy traditional Yucatecan cuisine.
Travel Tip: Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as temperatures can be high during the day.
Recommended: 14 Top Travel Destinations
13. Australia – Sydney
Why Go: Sydney’s summer season in December makes it a perfect beach holiday destination.
Highlights:
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Celebrate Christmas on Bondi Beach.
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Watch the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race start.
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Enjoy outdoor festivals and events.
Travel Tip: Book accommodations early, as December is a peak travel season in Australia.
14. New Zealand – Queenstown
Why Go: Queenstown offers adventure and natural beauty during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer.
Highlights:
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Experience bungee jumping and jet boating.
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Hike the Ben Lomond Track for stunning views.
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Visit nearby vineyards for wine tasting.
Travel Tip: Pack for variable weather; conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
15. South Africa – Cape Town
Why Go: Cape Town’s summer season in December offers a vibrant cultural and natural experience.
Highlights:
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Visit Table Mountain and Robben Island.
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Explore the V&A Waterfront and Kirstenbosch Gardens.
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Enjoy wine tasting in the nearby Stellenbosch region.
Travel Tip: Be aware of local safety advice and take standard precautions when exploring the city.
Common Questions:
Q: What are the best countries to visit for a traditional snowy Christmas?
A: Countries like Austria, Germany, Finland, and Sweden offer picturesque snowy landscapes and festive Christmas markets.
Q: Where can I spend Christmas on the beach?
A: Destinations such as Thailand, Mexico, Australia, and South Africa provide warm climates and beachside festivities during December.
Q: Are there any budget-friendly Christmas destinations?
A: Cities like Prague, Merida, and Chiang Mai offer affordable accommodations and unique holiday experiences
