Top places to visit in December for every kind of traveller

December brings a range of travel experiences, with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and unique seasonal highlights, making it one of the best months to explore diverse places to visit in December. Japan’s cities come alive with autumn colours, while Iceland offers clear skies for spotting the northern lights. In Morocco, you’ll find warm desert landscapes and bustling markets, while the Canary Islands promise sunny beaches and striking volcanic terrain. From the trails of Patagonia to Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, December is filled with memorable places to visit for every type of traveller.

Best places to visit in December

Here are some of the best places to visit in December:

Japan

Japan is among the top places to visit in December, especially for those captivated by the country’s famous autumn colours. As the weather cools, trees across Japan turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating landscapes that feel like something out of a painting. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara are particularly popular for their scenic gardens, temples, and parks that come alive with colour in December.

While in Japan, don’t miss the autumn festivals held throughout the month. The Shichi-Go-San festival on 15 December is a time for families to celebrate the growth of their young children with traditional kimonos and ceremonies at Shinto shrines. The combination of cultural events, breathtaking scenery, and mild weather makes Japan an ideal destination to visit in December.

Iceland

For travellers seeking winter magic, Iceland stands out as one of the best places to visit in December. Though the weather is colder, December provides the perfect opportunity to witness the northern lights with fewer crowds. Guided tours from Reykjavík offer the best chance to see the aurora borealis, a dreamlike experience for any traveller.

Apart from the northern lights, Iceland’s glaciers, hot springs, and lava fields are enchanting in December. Relaxing in the Blue Lagoon hot spring, surrounded by steam and stunning volcanic landscapes, is especially refreshing in the chilly air. Iceland’s transformation into a winter wonderland makes it a great place to visit in December for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Morocco

If you’re looking to escape cooler temperatures, Morocco is a fantastic place to visit in December. With temperatures ranging between 20–25°C in cities like Marrakech and Fez, the climate is perfect for exploring Morocco’s bustling markets, ancient medinas, and stunning landscapes. December is also an excellent time for a desert adventure in the Sahara, where you can take a camel trek, sleep in a desert camp, and watch the sunset over the dunes.

Morocco’s vibrant cities are full of sights, sounds, and fragrances, especially in the souks (markets) where you can find traditional handicrafts, spices, and local delicacies. The Atlas Mountains also offer scenic hiking trails with captivating views, making Morocco a unique mix of city excitement and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking places to visit in December.

Patagonia, Argentina

For the adventurous traveller, Patagonia in Argentina is a stunning destination to visit in December. The spring weather and fewer tourists make this time ideal for exploring Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes, including Los Glaciares National Park, home to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier. The hiking trails around the park provide incredible views of glaciers, mountains, and serene lakes.

December is also excellent for wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see guanacos, foxes, and even Andean condors. The mild weather in December is perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking, horseback riding, and exploring the small towns of El Calafate and El Chaltén, where you’ll find cosy lodges and authentic Argentinian cuisine.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes and mild temperatures make it one of the top places to visit in December for adventure enthusiasts. December marks the start of spring, offering ideal conditions for exploring New Zealand’s lush forests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes.

The South Island’s Milford Sound and Lake Tekapo are particularly scenic in December, with blooming lupins adding splashes of colour to the landscapes. For thrill-seekers, Queenstown is perfect for activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and white-water rafting. The North Island offers geothermal parks, Māori cultural experiences, and beautiful beaches, making New Zealand an unforgettable place to visit in December.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit in December in Southeast Asia, as the weather becomes cooler and drier. Hanoi and Halong Bay are must-see destinations, with temperatures around 20–25°C, perfect for exploring without the intense summer heat. In Hanoi, the historic Old Quarter is filled with local shops, cafes, and food vendors offering everything from pho to fresh spring rolls.

If you’re up for a scenic cruise, Halong Bay’s limestone islands and emerald waters are breathtaking. For a more tropical feel, head to Phu Quoc Island in the south, where you can relax on pristine beaches and enjoy water activities like snorkelling and diving. Vietnam’s rich culture, delicious cuisine, and picturesque scenery make it a top place to visit in December.

Canary Islands, Spain

If Europe is your preferred travel zone, the Canary Islands in Spain are an exceptional place to visit in December for a beach escape. With warm and sunny weather around 20–25°C, the Canary Islands remain one of the few places in Europe where you can enjoy sun-soaked beaches at this time of year. Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria each offer a unique blend of beaches, volcanic landscapes, and local culture.

The Teide National Park in Tenerife is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. Whether you hike or take a cable car, the panoramic views are worth the trip. The Canary Islands are also ideal for water sports, including surfing, diving, and snorkelling, making them a perfect place to visit in December.

Kerala, India

For a relaxing and culturally rich experience, Kerala in southern India is a top destination to visit in December. Known for its lush backwaters, palm-lined beaches, and tranquil hill stations, Kerala offers a peaceful escape from busy city life. December marks the beginning of the dry season, making it a great time for houseboat cruises on the backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Kerala’s cities, such as Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, are rich in heritage, with colonial architecture, traditional Kathakali dance performances, and vibrant markets. Tea plantations in Munnar and wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar add to Kerala’s appeal, where you might spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds. Kerala’s warm hospitality and diverse attractions make it a captivating place to visit in December.

Conclusion

With so many incredible places to visit in December, this month offers a unique travel experience that caters to every type of traveller. Whether you’re chasing autumn colours in Japan, exploring glaciers in Iceland, soaking in the culture of Morocco, or cruising through Kerala’s backwaters, December promises an unforgettable journey filled with memorable destinations and diverse experiences.