1. Manali, India
Manali in December is a perfect winter escape for anyone looking to experience snow-capped mountains, cozy cafes, and thrilling winter activities. Situated in the beautiful Himalayan mountains, this hill station transforms into a snowy heaven as the year ends.
Popular places like Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley come alive with skiing and snowboarding. People enjoy simple joys like building a snowman or just admiring stunning mountain views. This time of year is perfect for enjoying Manali's peaceful atmosphere at your own pace and leisure.
2. Vienna, Austria
If you dream of a magical place to visit in December, Vienna is the perfect spot! This beautiful Austrian city is a winter wonderland filled with the charm of old European traditions. As you stroll through the town, you'll see stunning Baroque palaces and medieval buildings glowing in the soft winter light.
One of the best things about visiting Vienna in December is the Christmas markets at Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn. You can enjoy tasty mulled wine, called Glühwein and look at unique handmade gifts. Lastly, don't miss the Vienna Philharmonic's unique New Year's concert and the world-famous opera shows.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Even Prague, the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, is famous for its unique Christmas markets! You will find lovely wooden stalls with handmade decorations and delicious treats like hot chocolate, trdelník (a sweet pastry), and traditional Czech honey wine. The Old Town Square market is especially magical, with a giant Christmas tree and live nativity scene.
But Prague's winter charm doesn't stop there. The city features beautiful buildings like the iconic Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, the grand St. Vitus Cathedral, and the well-known Astronomical Clock. Each corner of Prague offers perfect spots for winter photos that you'll cherish forever.
4. Lapland, Finland
Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is one of the best places to travel in December. The snow-covered landscapes and the Northern Lights dancing in the Arctic sky offer an otherworldly experience. As the home of Santa, the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi maintains a festive atmosphere all year round.
Beyond the holiday magic, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, husky sledding, and relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna. Lapland's serene isolation, eye-catching polar lights, and various outdoor activities make it a memorable December spot.
5. Zürich, Switzerland
Zürich in December is truly magical! The city comes alive with beautiful lights in the charming Old Town and shops selling delicious Swiss chocolate, unique handcrafted ornaments, and warm mulled wine. You can have fun ice skating on Lake Zurich and visit the Swiss National Museum for more holiday cheer.
The lights on Bahnhofstrasse sparkle and stand out against the snow-covered rooftops of the historic buildings. This mix of winter beauty and high-end shopping makes Zürich a fantastic festive destination at the end of the year.
6. French Alps, France
How can we miss the French Alps? Where the stunning mountains become a magical winter paradise! This mountain region is famous for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, with perfectly groomed slopes and breathtaking views. Beyond skiing, you can enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow or hike peacefully with snowshoes in the serene forests.
And make sure to indulge in local cuisine—there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of French onion soup or a tasty raclette on a chilly day. The charming towns and villages, with their cozy chalets and twinkling holiday lights, make the French Alps a must-visit.
7. White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA
Book a flight to White Sands National Park in New Mexico to see the dreamy white gypsum dunes. These dunes transform into a beautiful, almost magical winter scene during the colder months. The weather in early December is mild, making it the perfect time to explore all the park offers.
You can hike through the stunning scenery, sled down the soft, white dunes, or just relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. So, choose White Sands National Park over other overcrowded winter locations for a peaceful escape.
8. Banff, Canada
December in Banff feels straight out of a postcard. The snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and cozy cabins make for a dreamy winter destination. As the temperature drops below freezing, the town comes alive with activities like skiing, ice skating, and dog sledding. And while the days may be short, the nights are long and perfect for stargazing.
The lush green forests, blooming wildflowers, and crystal clear lakes provide a beautiful backdrop for hiking, biking, and camping. And don't forget about the wildlife—you're almost guaranteed to spot some of Canada's iconic wildlife, such as elk, moose, and bears.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, shines bright with twinkling holiday lights and festive decorations. As you wander around, you’ll feel the welcoming atmosphere, with the harbor and city squares looking especially magical during the holiday season. And when you need to warm up, try a hearty bowl of lamb stew or sip on a rich hot chocolate.
Reykjavik is also the perfect location for seeing the Northern Lights, and with its long nights, you have a good chance of spotting the colorful display in the sky. While there, take a trip to explore Iceland’s stunning natural wonders like geysers, volcanoes, and hot springs.
10. Kyoto, Japan
December is a great time to visit Kyoto if you're looking for a peaceful getaway filled with history and natural beauty. Known for its ancient temples, quiet tea houses, and rich cultural heritage, Kyoto offers a calm and reflective experience. The vibrant autumn leaves give this city a golden glow, making it even more beautiful.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Kiyomizu-dera Temple are two must-see attractions during this time of year. The mesmerizing sound of the bamboo swaying in the breeze at Arashiyama will surely soothe your soul. At the same time, Kiyomizu-dera offers stunning views of the autumn foliage from its wooden veranda.
Which place has made it to your bucket list? Is it skiing down the majestic slopes of Manali, drinking mulled wine in Prague, or discovering the dunes of White Sands National Park? With so many beautiful destinations to visit in December, the only hard part of this winter trip is where to go!
Ultimately, the best places to visit in December are just not about the sights; they are about creating “brrrrr-illiant” memories with your loved ones. The breathtaking views of these destinations will surely make your December a month to remember. So, wear your favorite outfit to chill out in style because this holiday season is full of exciting adventures.
