Best Places to Visit in December: Top Destinations for Every Traveler

There’s something whimsical about December vacations. The twinkling holiday lights, festive markets, and snow-dusted towns make it a dream month for cozy winter getaways. And if you want to spice your holidays up, you can also opt for a tropical escape. Whether you’re searching for holiday magic or feeling a bit like the Grinch, this guide rounds up the best places to visit in December, including destinations for solo travelers, couples, families, and budget-minded deal hunters.

December might be peak season for travel, but you can also find some surprising deals if you know where to look. Going’s experts have found many roundtrip deals to some of the cheapest places to visit in December for under $350. Become a Going member and start receiving cheap flight alerts for your next trip today.

Best Places to Visit in December in the USA

1. New York City

It’s almost impossible to think of the holidays and not think of New York City. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, skating at Bryant Park, and glowing window displays along Fifth Avenue feel straight out of a movie—especially if you’ve ever dreamed of a Home Alone 2-style adventure in Manhattan.

Beyond the winter classics, NYC offers indoor escapes like Broadway shows, world-class museums, and cozy cocktail bars perfect for chilly nights. With festive lights, great food, and nonstop energy, December is when the Big Apple becomes its most enchanting.

• Weather overview: Cold and festive, 30–45°F (-1 to 7°C)
• Top attractions: Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Union Square Market
• Average Going deal: $161 roundtrip
• Ideal for: Couples, solo travelers, Christmas lovers, city escape

2. Miami, Florida

Miami has the opposite vibe to a traditional winter vacation. Instead of snow, you can find palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights and beach weather, even in December. If you are visiting the first week of the month, stop by Art Basel and enjoy an immersive art experience.

For a more relaxed pace, explore the pastel streets of South Beach or the rich culture of Little Havana. December in Miami means sunny days, festive events, and a taste of the tropics without leaving the US.

• Weather overview: Warm (without the overwhelming heat) and sunny, 65–80°F (18–27°C)
• Top attractions: South Beach, Art Basel (early Dec), Little Havana
• Average Going deal: $180 roundtrip
• Ideal for: Beach vacation, family travel

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite in December offers a quieter, snow-covered version of the iconic park. Think misty waterfalls, frost-draped trees, and reflective moments with nature. It’s perfect for hikers, photographers, or anyone craving a peaceful winter backdrop.

While parts of the park may close due to snow, areas like Yosemite Valley remain open and beautifully serene. It’s the best month to cozy up in a cabin or lodge and enjoy fireside evenings after daytime snowshoe treks through a winter wonderland.

• Weather overview: Rainy and snowy, colder temps in higher elevations, 20–50°F (-6 to 10°C)
• Top attractions: Glacier Point, snowshoeing, snowy trails
• Average Going deal: $177 roundtrip into Fresno
• Ideal for: Adventure vacation, solo travel, couples

4. Orlando, Florida

If you have social media you may already know how beautiful the parks in Orlando get in December, with seasonal decor, themed parades, and nightly fireworks. It’s one of the most magical months to visit the parks, with cooler weather and shorter lines before the Christmas rush. 

Outside the theme parks, you’ll find local light festivals, holiday shopping, and plenty of festive eats. If you're traveling with kids (or you’re a kid at heart), this is one of the best places to visit in December in the USA.

• Weather overview: Pleasant and dry, 55–75°F (13–24°C)
• Top attractions: Disney World’s holiday lights, Universal’s holiday parades, Epcot’s Candlelight Processional
• Average Going deal: $151 roundtrip 
• Ideal for: Families, theme park fans

5. San Diego, California

If you're dreaming of a warm-weather escape but still want holiday charm, San Diego is a strong option. December Nights at Balboa Park is one of the city’s biggest events, with lights, music, international food, and festive cheer that spans cultures and neighborhoods.

From coastal hikes in Torrey Pines to winter sunsets at La Jolla, San Diego offers outdoor adventure without the chill. It’s also great for families: Think beach days with zoo visits and waterfront dining for a winter vacation that feels like summer.

• Weather overview: Mild and sunny, 50–70°F (10–21°C)
• Top attractions: Balboa Park December Nights, La Jolla Cove, Gaslamp Quarter
• Average Going deal: $185 roundtrip 
• Ideal for: Beach getaways, families, couples

Best places to visit in December around the world

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna feels like a storybook in December, with its grand buildings lit by golden holiday lights. Its Christmas markets are some of the best in the world, with mulled wine, handcrafted gifts, and the scent of roasted chestnuts wafting through Baroque squares. Vienna is one of Europe’s most elegant holiday destinations, perfect for travelers who want both sparkle and culture.

• Weather overview: Cold and romantic, 30–40°F (-1 to 4°C)
• Top attractions: Christmas markets, Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna State Opera
• Average Going deal: $553 roundtrip 
• Ideal for: Christmas lovers, couples

2. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto in December is peaceful and atmospheric. With the lower temperatures, the tourist crowds thin, and the snow-covered temples form a relaxing landscape. Many shrines and gardens also host limited-time light displays that cast a magical glow on already-sacred spaces.

• Weather overview: Crisp and calm, 35–50°F (2–10°C)
• Top attractions: Arashiyama bamboo grove, Kiyomizu-dera temple, winter illuminations
• Average Going deal: $842 roundtrip into Kansai
• Ideal for: Spiritual retreats, quiet exploration, cultural immersion

3. Cape Town, South Africa

From ocean safaris to sunset picnics, there’s no shortage of summer activities in Cape Town. December is prime time for hiking Table Mountain, sipping local wines, and spotting penguins on the beach. It’s a perfect pick if you want to run away from the cold and welcome adventure, scenic beauty, and culture.

• Weather overview: Sunny and warm, 65–80°F (18–27°C)
• Top attractions: Table Mountain, Boulders Beach penguins, Stellenbosch wine tours
• Average Going deal: $933 roundtrip 
• Ideal for: Nature lovers, solo travelers, beach escapes

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s medieval architecture is even more stunning with twinkling lights and snowy rooftops. To make it even better, there’s an enchanting scent of steaming spiced wine at its iconic Christmas markets. For those who dream of old-world winter magic, Prague is a December favorite.

• Weather overview: Cold and snowy, 25–40°F (-4 to 4°C)
• Top attractions: Old Town Square, Prague Castle, Christmas markets
• Average Going deal: $482 roundtrip 
• Ideal for: Couples, Christmas lovers

5. Maldives

December marks the start of peak weather in the Maldives. It brings sunny skies, calm seas, and endless island serenity. Whether you want to snorkel with manta rays or relax in an overwater villa, the Maldives is the place for luxury and relaxation. 

• Weather overview: Dry season begins, 75–85°F (24–29°C)
• Top attractions: Overwater bungalows, coral reefs, island hopping
• Average Going deal: $954 roundtrip 
• Ideal for: Luxury escapes, honeymoons, warm-weather relaxation

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Best places to visit in December for solo travelers

1. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a solo traveler’s dream in December. The holiday lights brighten up its iconic streets, while seasonal treats like churros con chocolate taste even better on cooler days. During this month, less cruises arrive to the city, which means you can enjoy fewer crowds at Gaudí landmarks and festive markets throughout the city.

• Weather overview: Mild, 45–60°F (7–16°C)
• Top attractions: La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter
• Average Going deal: $515 roundtrip

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

December in Amsterdam is ideal for enjoying cozy cafés, frosty canals, and twinkling holiday lights. The city is easy to navigate, English-friendly, and full of soul in winter. Whether you're wandering museum halls, thrift shopping, or cycling through local parks, Amsterdam has something for every kind of solo traveler. 

• Weather overview: Cold and festive, 35–45°F (2–7°C)
• Top attractions: Canal Light Festival, Van Gogh Museum, De Negen Straatjes
• Average Going deal: $538 roundtrip

Best places to visit in December for couples

1. Paris, France

There’s a reason why Paris is called the City of Love. Even in December, the historic architecture, glowing streets, and cozy bistros seem straight out of a romantic movie. The lower temperatures scare away the crowds, which means shorter museum lines and quieter streets, ideal for couples who want to experience the city at its most intimate and enchanting.

• Weather overview: Cold and festive, 35–45°F (2–7°C)
• Top attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Montmartre
• Average Going deal: $539 roundtrip

2. Venice, Italy

Venice is one of the world’s most visited cities, and in summer, it shows. But December is one of the rare times you can experience Venice without the crowds. The Floating City is hushed and magical, with mist rising off the canals and festive touches adorning narrow alleyways. Couples can enjoy gondola rides, Christmas concerts, and peaceful walks through centuries-old architecture.

• Weather overview: Cold and festive, 35–45°F (2–7°C)
• Top attractions: Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge
• Average Going deal: $513 roundtrip

Best places to visit in December for families

1. Aspen, Colorado, USA

Whether you're teaching your little ones to ski or enjoying games in the snow together, Aspen makes winter feel magical and memorable at every age. December brings perfect ski conditions, holiday festivals, and plenty of cocoa by the fire. 

• Weather overview: Cold and festive, 35–45°F (2–7°C)
• Top attractions: Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, Aspen Mountain
• Average Going deal: $290 roundtrip

2. Orlando, Florida

Orlando’s theme parks sparkle with lights, seasonal parades, and special events that make any family vacation special. Enjoy shorter lines in early December and festive fun without the freezing temperatures. Overall, Orlando is one of the best warm places to visit in December.

• Weather overview: Cold and festive, 35–45°F (2–7°C)
• Top attractions: Disney World, Universal Studios, LEGOLAND
• Average Going deal: $151 roundtrip

The cheapest places to fly to in December

Plan your perfect December getaway with Going’s best flight deals

Now’s the perfect time to start planning your December vacation. Whether you're seeking snow-covered charm, sun-soaked beaches, or festive city escapes, the key to making your trip affordable is finding the right flight deal.

That’s where Going comes in. Thanks to our real-time alerts you can discover exciting destinations and get there for a fraction of the price. We search for mistake fares, unadvertised discounts, and unusually low prices from your chosen airports so you don’t have to spend hours comparing options—and you can spend more on a December vacation you’ll remember forever.

Download Going’s app and start receiving flight deals for your December trip!