The best places to go in December 2025 - from festive Paris and snowy Scotland to sunny Maldives and Sydney beaches. Find out about the weather, season, cultural features, gastronomy and tips for tourists in each destination

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December is the perfect time to escape the routine and spend the end of the year where the holiday, sun or snow reigns. While some dream of the Christmas lights of Europe, others pack their bags to meet the December holidays on the beach. Someone is looking for snowy slopes, and someone - the warm waves of the Indian Ocean. Regardless of your preferences, there are places in the world that are suitable for any traveler.

The Condé Nast Traveller portal has prepared a selection of the best places to travel in December, which we have supplemented with useful information. So, we will tell you about the best destinations for a holiday in December - from festive Paris to sunny Maldives.

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Unexpected situations can happen anywhere - from flight delays to lost luggage or health problems.

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Jaipur, India

Temperature: +34°C / +19°C

Season: winter

A city of colors, where everything breathes history and beauty. Winter Jaipur is quiet streets, comfortable weather and many attractions that come to life in the soft light of the sun. Be sure to visit Amer Fort with a light show and enjoy the atmosphere of Rajasthan, which in winter resembles a real open-air theater.

Things to do: stroll through the pink old city, climb to Jaigarh Fort, visit Johari Bazaar to buy jewelry.

Cultural or gastronomic features: Jaipur is famous for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine - try dal baati churma or sweet lada.

Travel tip: Plan your sightseeing in the morning – the temperature is comfortable and the light is perfect for photos.

Sydney, Australia

Temperature: +26°C / +18°C

Season: Summer

While Europe is hiding under its covers, Australia is living the rhythm of summer. Enjoy swimming in the Pacific Ocean, strolling along the famous beaches of Bondi and Coogee, and taking photos with the Opera House in the background. December in Sydney is all about endless sunny days, the ocean, and the ease of life.

Things to do: Climb the Harbour Bridge, go surfing or kayaking in Watson Bay.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: Try fresh seafood at Darling Harbour restaurants or a typical Australian barbecue party right on the beach.

Tourist tip: Book your accommodation in advance – December in Sydney coincides with the peak tourist season.

Rome, Italy

Temperature: +13°C / +4°C

Season: Winter

Winter Rome is magic without the crowds. When dusk falls on the Colosseum, the city turns into a fairy tale. Christmas markets, the aroma of mulled wine and panettone, warm trattorias – all this creates the atmosphere of a cozy Italian holiday.

Things to do: Visit the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica, stroll through Trastevere and see the illuminations in Piazza Navona.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: Try the classic pasta carbonara or amatriciana, and for dessert – freshly baked panettone.

Tourist tip: Many museums are open shorter on holidays – check the schedule in advance.

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Temperature: +18°C / +7°C

Season: Summer

Turquoise water, lavender meadows and mountains reflected in the water are a true idyll for those who love nature. In December, lupines bloom here, and the landscapes resemble a living postcard. An ideal place for silence, walks and photos.

Things to do: Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, hike to the top of Mount John, or observe the starry sky at the observatory.

Cultural or gastronomic features: Be sure to try the herb-roasted lamb or fresh fish in local cafes.

Tip for tourists: Be sure to take warm clothes - even in summer the evenings here are cool.

Paris, France

Temperature: +8°C / +3°C

Season: Winter

Christmas Paris is a city of romance and lights. Strolls along the Seine, Christmas trees near the Louvre, the sparkle of shop windows on the Champs-Élysées – all this makes December special. And cozy restaurants with French soup and mulled wine give real warmth.

Things to do: skate on the ice rink near the Eiffel Tower, visit Christmas markets and Galeries Lafayette.

Cultural or gastronomic features: Oysters, hot cider and Christmas desserts with chestnuts are in fashion in December.

Tip for tourists: buy museum tickets online – even in low season, there are still queues.

Vigo, Spain

Temperature: +14°C / +8°C

Season: Winter

A city that rivals New York for the most beautiful Christmas! Vigo is transformed into a Christmas wonderland: a giant Christmas tree, hundreds of thousands of lights, festive markets and local delicacies. Don’t miss the pulpo a la gallega – Galician octopus, a true taste of the region.

Things to do: Stroll through the centre, visit the promenade or the Castro Castle with its panoramic ocean views.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: The Galicia region is famous for its seafood – oysters, squid and mussels are the freshest in Spain.

Tip for tourists: Don’t forget a light jacket – even in warm weather, there is a cool breeze blowing from the sea.

Scotland, United Kingdom

Temperature: +11°C / 0°C

Season: Winter

Snow-capped mountains, whisky pubs, the smell of British beef and warm evenings by the fire in Scotland’s harsh yet charming winter. Here you can see the mountain reindeer and feel the spirit of ancient legends.

Things to do: Ski in the Cairngorms, visit ancient castles or go whisky tasting in Speyside.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: Try haggis, smoked fish and local ales.

Travel tip: The days are short – plan your activities in the morning to make the most of the daylight

Livinho, Italy

Temperature: -3°C / -12°C

Season: Winter

One of the best ski resorts in Europe. In December, the ski season starts here, and evenings are spent in atmospheric bars and wine halls. For active travelers, it is the perfect combination of sports, nature and Italian hospitality.

Things to do: Try freeriding on the Mottolino slopes, snowmobiling or winter shopping in the tax-free zone.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: Try Alpine cuisine - polenta, fondue and mulled wine with cloves.

Tip for tourists: book equipment in advance - demand is extremely high in December.

Maldives

Temperature: +30°C / +25°C

Season: dry season

A paradise on earth, especially in December, when the dry season begins. Cloudless skies, crystal clear sea, diving among whale sharks and manta rays - this is what makes the Maldives a dream. Perfect if you want to celebrate New Year barefoot on white sand.

Things to do: Snorkeling, diving, yoga on the beach or a sunset cruise.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: Maldivian cuisine combines Indian spices, coconut and fresh fish - try the mas hooni.

Tip for tourists: December is the beginning of the high season, so it is better to book a villa at least 1-2 months in advance.

New York, USA

Temperature: +8°C / -3°C

Season: winter

The city that has become a symbol of Christmas. The ice rink near Rockefeller Center, the lights of Brooklyn, the festive window displays on Fifth Avenue - New York gives real movie magic. End the evening by the fireplace with a cocktail at The Ludlow and enjoy the holiday spirit.

Things to do: Go ice skating in Central Park, see a Broadway show, or visit the Bryant Park Christmas Market.

Cultural or gastronomic highlights: Try classic New York cheesecake, hot dogs, and holiday hot chocolate.

Tourist tip: Don't forget warm clothes - the winds between the skyscrapers make the temperature noticeably lower.

The end of the year is not only a time to sum up, but also an opportunity to give yourself new emotions. Traveling in December is a great way to celebrate the holidays with inspiration, find warmth in the middle of winter, or, conversely, immerse yourself in a real winter fairy tale.

Regardless of whether you choose the turquoise beaches of the Maldives or the snowy peaks of Scotland, the main thing is to allow yourself to feel the moment. The world is full of amazing places, and every December is a new chance to discover them for yourself.

Planning to visit a new country, but don’t know where to start preparing?

Use the “Travel Guide” from Visit World — it’s your personal assistant in planning your trip. What’s included in the guide:

- Step-by-step instructions for applying for a tourist visa: from filling out the application form to going through an interview.

- Information on visa fees and application processing times.

- Sample photo for a tourist visa.

- Rules for filling out the application form.

- Life hacks and tips for visiting the country.

- A complete list of documents required for a tourist visa.

With Visit World, preparing for your trip becomes simple, fast and stress-free!

Reminder! Christmas is a magical winter holiday that attracts with twinkling lights, decorated trees, festive food and traditions. There is no more festive place to spend this family holiday than Christmas markets. We have already told you about the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe that are worth visiting in the winter of 2025/2026.

Photo – Agoda.com