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The Best December Travel Destinations

Rockefeller Center is a popular December travel destination in the United States (photo: Kaydn Ito).

From ice skating beneath the iconic Rockefeller Center tree in New York City to soaking up summer sunshine on Australia’s beaches, December offers a wide range of travel opportunities. With quieter attractions, festive celebrations, and appealing deals, it’s the perfect month to plan a getaway—whether you dream of snowy landscapes or warm, sunny shores.

Rockefeller Center is a popular December travel destination in the United States (photo: Kaydn Ito).
Ice skaters at Rockefeller Center (photo: Kaydn Ito)

Benefits of Winter Travel

1. Traveling in winter can help you avoid crowds.

One of the biggest perks of traveling in winter is escaping the bustling crowds that swarm trendy destinations during the summer. December is the ideal time to experience famous landmarks without the overwhelming lines and packed streets, making for a far more immersive experience.

Imagine strolling through the Louvre in Paris or visiting iconic attractions in Rome without the typical shoulder-to-shoulder crowds; it can be a completely different, almost serene experience.

Some of the best places to travel to in December are the ones you’d usually avoid during peak tourist seasons. Southeast Asia, for instance, remains an attractive choice but is far less crowded in winter than in the high-summer months.

Likewise, many U.S. National Parks, such as Yosemite and Bryce Canyon, are great to visit in winter. They are less crowded and transform into quiet winter landscapes, providing peaceful settings for hikes, photography, and snow-laden scenery. 

While Christmas and New Year’s travel can be hectic with festive markets, celebrations, and shopping, outside of this period can be a good time to explore normally busy locations. This off-peak season can offer a fresh perspective on even the most iconic spots, allowing travelers to connect with these destinations in a way that’s harder to achieve during summer. 

A grey wolf is spotted in a snowy Yosemite Valley (photo: Caleb Woods).A grey wolf is spotted in a snowy Yosemite Valley (photo: Caleb Woods).A grey wolf is spotted in a snowy Yosemite Valley (photo: Caleb Woods).
A grey wolf spotted in Yosemite Valley (photo: Caleb Woods)

2. The best places to travel to in December have seasonal experiences.

December offers a range of unforgettable seasonal experiences that make traveling in winter truly magical. Holiday markets, festive light displays, and ice skating create an atmosphere unique to this time of year. Europe is especially enchanting, with cities like Vienna, Prague, and Berlin hosting some of the most renowned Christmas markets.

These markets, brimming with handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and traditional treats, draw visitors from all over. Each market has its own charm, transforming…

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