Whether you’re keen to escape the chill or embrace it, December has a wealth of sparkling destinations to explore—from festive city retreats to snowy ski villages and sun-soaked tropical islands.
This guide highlights the most captivating holiday spots for December, catering to both snow and sun seekers. For those yearning for a winter wonderland, consider Lapland, where huskies race through enchanted landscapes under the Northern Lights; or head to Tallinn for its intimate charm. Chambéry beckons with ski slopes that avoid the crowds, while York offers a delightful festive market experience. If it’s warmth you’re after, Barbados shines with its sun-drenched beaches and laid-back island vibe, while Nicaragua presents a dry-season adventure filled with colonial towns and surf-ready beaches.
Inside this guide:
This month’s beach read: The Twelve Clues of Christmas by Rhys Bowen
Set against a snow-dusted English village in the 1930s, this enchanting cozy mystery features Lady Georgiana Rannoch, who, despite her financial struggles, manages to land a holiday hostess gig. However, her plans unravel when she finds herself embroiled in a series of suspicious deaths. Picture crackling fires, festive cheer, and a clever whodunit unfolding amidst the crooked alleys of York.
Discover your next holiday read
Want to dive into The Twelve Clues of Christmas? You can purchase it directly from the Waterstones website and gear up for your next getaway.
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York | United Kingdom
UK Rank: 17th – Good Trip Index
For a taste of one of Europe’s finest Christmas markets, you needn’t jet off to the continent—York is the epitome of seasonal charm. As December rolls in, this city transforms into a festive wonderland, casting a spell that’s hard to resist.
Imagine crooked lanes aglow with twinkling lights and the inviting aroma of roasted chestnuts wafting from half-timbered shops as you sip mulled wine from rustic stalls. The Christmas market extends through Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, brimming with locally-crafted gifts and enough festive fare to keep you energised for days of exploration. The atmosphere is lively yet effortlessly enjoyable—just the right balance of bustling and cozy.
Stroll through the Shambles or wander along the snickleways behind the Bar Walls to discover quiet hideaways and picturesque views. Step into a candlelit pub or indulge in some warm fudge to recharge. Whatever your aim—shopping, photography, or soaking in the festive atmosphere—York makes it all feel utterly effortless.
Lapland | Finland
Finland Rank: 5th – Good Trip Index
Where else can you embark on a snow-filled journey brimming with huskies, the Northern Lights, and a personal visit with Santa Claus? Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is located just beyond the Arctic Circle—an enticing draw for anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit in the snow.
Designated as Santa’s official hometown, this locale promises magical encounters—only a short drive away lies Santa Claus Village, where the man in red can be found hard at work in his wintery office.
Farther north, the small village of Ivalo awaits. Like many places in Lapland, it’s enveloped by pristine forests and shimmering lakes, but winter brings an especially magical touch with its pristine snow creating stunning landscapes that even turn the trees into frosted sentinels.
This remote outpost is also an ideal setting for spotting the Northern Lights; after indulging in the festive experience, consider heading north for a quiet retreat amid undeniable natural beauty.
Your Lapland travel guide
Embark on an adventure beyond the Arctic Circle where reindeer roam wild and the heavens sparkle with the Northern Lights…
Tallinn | Estonia
Estonia Rank: 13th – Good Trip Index
Visiting Tallinn’s Old Town in December is akin to stepping into a living snow globe. Cobbled streets are framed by medieval architecture adorned with twinkling lights, all contributing to a tranquil winter’s atmosphere. The Christmas market in Town Hall Square is a must-visit. With a warm glass of mulled wine, you can browse local crafts or simply bask in the festive spirit next to the towering spruce tree.
This enchanting city embraces a sense of coziness without overwhelming extravagance. Each corner tells a story, combining history with cozy cafés and unique design shops nestled in narrow alleys. Climb Toompea Hill for spectacular views over the crimson rooftops, or duck into a museum to warm your toes.
Another noteworthy aspect of Tallinn is its commitment to green living. Recently topping the Environmental Performance Index, the city boasts smart public transportation, clean air, and ample green spaces, making your explorations feel even more delightful.
Chambéry | France
France Rank: 20th – Good Trip Index
Nestled between the majestic French Alps and the Jura mountains, Chambéry is gaining recognition as a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Once a well-kept local secret, it offers easy access to some of the best ski resorts in southeastern France.
Bid farewell to the crowds of popular resorts and experience the heart of Savoie instead. Here, you can access the expansive ski area of Massif des Trois Vallées, alongside smaller slopes that are just as thrilling yet free from long waits. Whether it’s powdery runs or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air with a glass of mulled wine, Chambéry serves as a perfect base.
But there’s more to Chambéry than just skiing; the town itself is a joy to explore. Meander through picturesque cobbled streets, warm up with a vin chaud at a quaint café, or delve into local history—Chambéry once held the title of the Savoy region’s capital. It’s compact, inviting, and rich in character.
Bruges | Belgium
Belgium Rank: 19th – Good Trip Index
A quick jaunt across the Channel, Bruges is close enough for a day trip—but it deserves more of your time. The medieval old town radiates a storybook charm, particularly in December, when the cobblestone streets sparkle with lights and the tantalizing scent of waffles fills the air.
Head straight to the bustling Christmas market in the main square, where handmade crafts abound, your gloved hands can warm around a cup of glühwein, and the festive atmosphere is palpable. Afterwards, take refuge in a nearby café for a Belgian beer, ideally positioned next to a crackling fireplace.
Once you’ve savored the market, stroll along the canal-side pathways, where the old buildings seem to lean in, whispering secrets of the past. If you’re seeking something a little less picturesque, feel free to punctuate your visit with a fascinating, albeit grim, trip to the Torture Museum.
Barbados
Barbados Rank: 63rd – Good Trip Index
For a delightful escape from the December chill, look no further than Barbados. Boasting golden beaches, warm oceans, and a tropical climate that holds steady, it’s an ideal paradise in the middle of winter. During this time, it’s the very definition of warmth.
Your days can be spent hopping between stunning beaches, relaxed rum shops, and delightful food stalls under swaying palms serving up grilled fish and mouthwatering flying fish cutters. There’s no hurry here—only leisurely days filled with friendly locals and the sight of sea turtles gliding past your toes.
If you venture inland, you’ll discover lush gardens, historic sugar plantations, and hiking trails that offer breathtaking vistas. But we won’t judge if you prefer to stay parked on a sun lounger with a refreshing rum punch in hand.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua Rank: 117th – Good Trip Index
Swap your winter coat for swimwear in Nicaragua, where December ushers in sunshine, surf, and easygoing mornings fueled by strong coffee. This marks the dry season, promising clear skies and warm days without the sticky humidity. Whether you find yourself exploring colorful colonial towns or lounging on the beach, relaxation comes naturally here.
Begin your exploration in Granada or León, if you prefer a blend of sunshine and history, with cobblestone streets, pastel-hued buildings, and rooftop bars perfect for sunset viewing. Make your way toward the coast next, where San Juan del Sur mirrors a laid-back surf vibe, balancing waves with vibrant nightlife. For serenity, the Corn Islands await, offering pristine white sands and turquoise waters that don’t require shoes.
There’s plenty of adventure to be had as well—climbing a volcano, ziplining through lush forests, or kayaking across Lake Nicaragua—but the true allure of December lies in the relaxed pace that invites you to embrace it all. It’s warm, welcoming, and offers a refreshing departure from the usual holiday hustle.