Nov 3, 2023
As the year draws to a close, many travellers seek refuge from the cold, dark winter. So whether you fancy a tropical beach escape, an off-the-beaten-path adventure, or an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, we’re rounding up the best travel destinations in December.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best warm destinations for December for those chasing the sun, along with cheap places to travel in December if you’re on a budget. We’ll finish with the best places in Europe to visit in December.
Keep reading to see where you should end your year in style!
South Africa has something for everyone, and there are many reasons why it’s top of our best places to vacation in December.
With December ushering in the summer, South Africa’s a prime choice for anyone craving warm weather, Insta-worthy landscapes, and exotic experiences.
The Rainbow Nation, as it’s affectionately known, welcomes travellers with a range of options from the lush coastlines of Cape Town to the wild wonders of Kruger National Park.
It’s the perfect time for a safari adventure, as the wildlife thrives in the warm climate. The end of the year is the peak time to spot the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalos).
And to bring your South African holiday in December to a close, ring in the New Year in style watching the Cape Town fireworks over the V&A waterfront while sipping a glass of South African bubbly (just ask for some of their best MCC — Methode Cap Classique).
Getting there:
Thailand’s another destination that’s earned a spot on the best vacation spots in December list for many reasons.
With its postcard beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant cities, this Southeast Asian gem provides a warm and welcoming oasis.
The Andaman Sea’s turquoise waters invite the Vitamin-D deficient to Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands, while culture buffs will be happy exploring the temples and street markets of Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
Thailand’s festive spirit is at its peak during the holiday season, with colourful celebrations and decorations along with exquisite cuisine, friendly locals, and tropical vistas to ring in your holidays in December.
Getting there:
Paraguay, often overshadowed by its neighbours, reveals its hidden treasures as one of the best places to go in December.
The bustling capital city, Asunción, comes alive with traditional festivals, such as the Virgen de Caacupé and Posadas Navideñas.
Explore the Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesús de Tavarangue, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or take a boat trip on the Paraguay River to see unique wildlife and cultural diversity.
Known for its mouth-watering local cuisine, warm weather, and warm-hearted people, Paraguay offers an authentic South American vacation in December — but without the crowds.
Getting there:
If you’re looking for warm places to visit in December, look no further than sunny Kenya.
Known for its stunning beaches, such as Diani Beach and Watamu, visitors can enjoy sunbathing and watersports and maybe even spot some local marine life.
And speaking of wildlife, December’s one of the best times to visit as it’s the start of the dry season and the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara. There isn’t a better time to see thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the savannah.
If an African safari is sitting un-checked on your bucket list, a Kenyan vacation in December is your golden opportunity!
Getting there:
If you’re a budget-conscious traveller after a great deal on a sunny holiday, or simply seeking an authentic-yet-affordable break, this section’s for you.
Here are some of the best cheap places to travel in December, rich in culture and experience.
With its cultural heritage and the generosity of the locals, Tunisia’s an ideal choice for an affordable yet balmy December holiday.
This North African coastal gem invites travellers to soak up the sun, explore ancient cities, and savour culinary delights like couscous, tagine, and fresh seafood.
If you want adventure, try camel riding in the Sahara Desert or explore the ruins of the ancient city of Carthage.
With mild temperatures and modest crowds, Tunisia’s a budget traveller’s paradise, offering history, culture, and cuisine at a fraction of the cost of more touristy Mediterranean destinations.
It’s one of the best vacation destinations in December that must be experienced first-hand to be appreciated.
Getting there:
What do you get when you combine one of the cheapest places to travel in December with one of the warmest places to travel in December? Our pick for one of the best holiday destinations — Ecuador!
Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Amazon rainforest, this South American country has a range of budget-friendly adventures and experiences.
Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a gateway to explore the country’s cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Beyond the city, the Galápagos Islands, which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, offers incredible natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife encounters.
And for surfers and beach bums, Ecuador is famous for its beaches (and towering waves) along its Pacific coast, including popular surf towns like Guayaquil.
The warm climate and refreshing sea breeze create an ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and relaxing.
Getting there:
Ghana, a hidden gem of West Africa, is a fantastic choice for travellers seeking warm places in December.
In December, Ghana comes alive with festivals and street markets. It’s an exceptional choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking a December holiday destination combining luxury and affordability.
Along the country’s coast, including Busua and Ada Foah, you’ll find luxurious resorts that provide stylish accommodation, often with direct access to the beach, infinity pools, spa facilities, and classy dining options that won’t strain your wallet.
And for travellers seeking adventure, try a safari experience in a national park, such as Mole National Park. You can go on game drives and see elephants, antelope, big cats, and colourful birds.
Getting there:
The best places to visit in Europe in December usually involve festive traditions, delectable dishes, winter sports — and, of course, those enchanting Christmas markets.
Keep reading for our picks for the best December travel destinations — the EU edition.
Holidays in December don’t get much better than in Austria. With its iconic Alpine landscapes and baroque architecture, Austria transforms into a winter wonderland come December.
Vienna’s famous for its Christmas markets and, in a city known for music and opera, what better place to take in the seasonal classic The Nutcracker?
If you’re more of an outdoors enthusiast, Salzburg and Innsbruck are fantastic options for skiing and snowboarding before indulging in a frosty stein of Austrian beer for apres ski celebrations.
Getting there:
With its Baltic-meets-Nordic charm and wintery atmosphere, Estonia’s another fabulous destination for holidays in December.
In the capital, Tallinn, visitors and locals flock to the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Christmas market in the Old Town Hall Square has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of Europe’s finest. Sample seasonal treats like glögg (mulled wine) and kringel (a sweet cinnamon pastry), pick up some unique gifts to take home, and watch traditional folk dancing and singing.
But there’s more to Estonia than just Tallinn. Travel to other cities like Pärnu and Tartu, or islands like Saaremaa or Hiiumaa. Explore the wintery wonderland of Lahemaa National Park and take a sleigh ride in the snow.
And no trip to Estonia is ever complete without a sauna!
Getting there:
If you’re looking for the warmest place in Europe during December, consider sunny Spain. With diverse landscapes and a Mediterranean climate, it’s one of the best places in Europe to visit in December — especially if you’re missing the sun!
Málaga, Seville, and the Costa del Sol continue to enjoy pleasant weather in December. Average daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with cooler weather at night.
With fewer crowds and lower prices than in summer, Spain offers travellers a warm yet festive winter escape.
To ring in the New Year, head to the Puerta del Sol in Madrid or La Rambla in Barcelona. But remember to bring 12 grapes to eat at each stroke of midnight — it’s the traditional Spanish way to welcome in the New Year!
Getting there:
An underrated part of what makes a holiday destination great is reliable, convenient, and affordable transport.
Bolt’s ride-hailing (and other mobility options such as e-bikes and scooters) — are in more than 500 cities and 45 countries across Europe, Africa, Western Asia, and Latin America.
A convenient ride’s available from a single easy-to-navigate app from the moment you exit the airport.
And for early-morning flights or day trips, you can schedule a ride with Bolt’s Scheduled Rides feature.
