December is that rare month that somehow manages to feel both impossibly busy and full of possibility. Between holiday obligations and year-end work chaos, you need a real escape—but the question is where. Do you lean into winter and book that cozy mountain cabin? Chase summer somewhere in the Southern Hemisphere? Or find that perfect in-between destination where the weather is mild and the crowds haven’t caught on yet?

The truth is, December might actually be one of the best months to travel if you know where to go. While everyone else is fighting for the same handful of overdone holiday destinations, there are incredible places around the world (and closer to home than you think) where December brings perfect weather, fewer tourists, and exactly the kind of reset you need before a new year begins. Whether you’re planning a quick long-weekend escape or a proper week-long vacation, these are the destinations that make December travel actually worth it.

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Tulum, Mexico – Beach Luxury Before Peak Season Chaos

The case for it: Perfect weather, cenotes, and crowds that haven’t peaked yet

December in Tulum hits that sweet spot—warm and sunny but before the January madness when everyone descends post-holidays. The weather is genuinely perfect (mid-80s, low humidity), the water is swimmable, and you can still find beach clubs that aren’t completely overrun. Plus, Tulum has evolved beyond just beach vibes into a full wellness and design destination, with incredible restaurants, boutique hotels, and that signature boho-chic aesthetic that somehow never gets old.

Where to stay: Habitas Tulum nails the elevated-but-relaxed vibe—open-air rooms, excellent restaurant, and a crowd that’s more “creative professional” than “influencer retreat.” For something more intimate, Sanara is beachfront with a strong wellness focus (daily yoga, spa, healthy-but-delicious food).

What to do: Mornings at the beach, afternoons exploring cenotes (Cenote Calavera and Gran Cenote are both stunning and less crowded in December), and evenings at places like Hartwood or Arca where the food is genuinely exciting. Visit the Tulum ruins early in the morning before it gets hot and crowded. If you’re into wellness, book a temazcal ceremony—it’s intense but incredibly restorative.

The reality: Tulum has gotten expensive and can feel overrun, but December is one of the better months to visit before peak season fully hits. Book accommodations well in advance—the best places fill up fast for the holidays.

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Vienna, Austria – For Christmas Markets Done Right

The case for it: Old-world charm, incredible Christmas markets, and zero kitsch

If you’re going to do Christmas markets, Vienna does them better than anywhere else. This isn’t the overly commercialized, tourist-trap version—these are centuries-old markets in front of baroque palaces, where the mulled wine is actually good and the atmosphere feels genuinely magical rather than manufactured. December in Vienna is cold, yes, but it’s the kind of beautiful European winter that makes you want to bundle up and wander for hours.

Where to stay: Hotel Sacher is iconic for a reason—right near the opera house, dripping in Viennese elegance, and their Sachertorte is worth the hype.

What to do: Visit the Christmas markets (Schönbrunn Palace and Karlsplatz are the best), see a performance at the Vienna State Opera (December programming is excellent), and spend afternoons in coffeehouses like Café Central. The Belvedere Palace and MuseumsQuartier are less crowded in December. Don’t miss a proper Viennese breakfast—coffee, pastries, and taking your time about it.

What locals know: Bring layers—the markets are outdoors but museums and cafes are very warm. December 24-26 many things close for holidays, so plan around that. The markets close on December 23rd or 24th, so don’t wait until the last minute.

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St. Lucia, Caribbean – Tropical Escape Without Hurricane Season

The case for it: Gorgeous weather, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds than peak winter

December in St. Lucia is ideal—hurricane season is over, the weather is warm and sunny (low 80s), and you’re there before the January-March rush when prices spike. St. Lucia is also one of the more interesting Caribbean islands—dramatic Piton mountains, rainforest hikes, sulfur springs, and a food scene that goes beyond resort buffets.

Where to stay: Jade Mountain is splurge-worthy—those open-air suites with private infinity pools overlooking the Pitons are legitimately spectacular. Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort is more classic luxury with excellent service. For something more intimate, Anse Chastanet is eco-focused with incredible snorkeling right off the beach.

What to do: Hike Gros Piton (challenging but doable with a guide), visit the drive-through volcano at Sulphur Springs, snorkel at Anse Chastanet, and book a sunset catamaran cruise. The Friday night street party in Gros Islet is fun if you want local culture rather than just resort life.

Worth knowing: December is high season, so book flights and hotels early. The island is more expensive than some Caribbean destinations, but the scenery justifies it. Rent a car if you want to explore beyond your resort—driving is on the left, and roads are steep and winding.

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Morocco (Marrakech & Beyond) – Cultural Immersion with Perfect Weather

The case for it: Comfortable temperatures, vibrant culture, and excellent value

December in Morocco means warm days and cool nights—perfect for exploring medinas, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, and spending long afternoons at riads without melting. It’s peak season for a reason: the weather is genuinely ideal, and Morocco’s mix of Arabic, Berber, and French influences creates this incredibly rich cultural experience that feels both exotic and accessible.

Where to stay: In Marrakech, Royal Mansour is extraordinary if you want ultimate luxury—every suite is its own private riad. For something more intimate, Riad Yasmine is beautifully designed with excellent service. If you venture to the desert (highly recommended), Scarabeo Camp offers luxury tents under unbelievable starry skies.

What to do: Get lost in Marrakech’s medina, shop the souks (leather goods, textiles, ceramics), and spend an afternoon at a hammam. Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or commit to a few days—Imlil is a great base for hiking. If you have time, do a desert tour to Merzouga—watching sunrise over the Sahara dunes is worth the journey.

Essential tips: Hire a guide for your first day in the medina—it’s genuinely labyrinthine and you’ll appreciate the context. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees). Haggle at souks but stay good-natured about it. December can be surprisingly cold at night, especially in the desert, so pack layers.

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New Zealand – Summer Adventures in the Southern Hemisphere

The case for it: Stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and it’s literally summer there

December in New Zealand is peak summer—long days, warm weather, and some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet. This is the destination for people who want adventure: hiking, kayaking, wine tasting in stunning landscapes, and exploring a country that somehow manages to have beaches, mountains, fjords, and glaciers all within driving distance.

Where to go: Queenstown is adventure central—skiing is done but hiking, lake activities, and wine tasting are all excellent. The South Island’s Milford Sound and Mount Cook are breathtaking. North Island’s Bay of Islands is beautiful for beaches and sailing. If you’re into wine, Marlborough and Central Otago are world-class.

Where to stay: Eichardt’s Private Hotel in Queenstown is luxurious and well-located. Matakauri Lodge has stunning lake views. In the Bay of Islands, Eagles Nest is dramatic architecture with incredible vistas.

Reality check: December is peak summer season in New Zealand, so book everything early and expect higher prices. The Great Walks (famous hiking trails) book out months in advance. Distances are deceptive—driving takes longer than you think. Budget at least two weeks if you want to see both islands properly.

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Paris – Because It’s Always a Good Idea, But Especially Now

The case for it: Festive atmosphere without summer crowds, and it’s Paris

December in Paris is cold, yes, but it’s also beautiful in that classic European winter way—holiday lights on the Champs-Élysées, ice skating at Hôtel de Ville, hot chocolate at Angelina, and museums that aren’t packed with summer tourists. The city leans into the season rather than fighting it, and there’s something romantic about bundling up for long walks through beautiful neighborhoods when the light is golden and low.

Where to stay: Hôtel Plaza Athénée is iconic Parisian luxury. For something more boutique, Hôtel Henriette in the Latin Quarter is charming and well-located. Le Marais has excellent apartment rentals if you want to feel more local.

What to do: Visit Christmas markets (especially the one at La Défense), ice skate at one of the outdoor rinks, and spend hours at the Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie when it’s cold outside. Book a cooking class, eat your way through Le Marais, and have at least one proper French dinner at a place like Septime or Frenchie.

What Parisians know: Many restaurants close between Christmas and New Year’s, so plan ahead. The sales (soldes) start in early January, but December has great shopping regardless. Layer well—it’s cold but rarely freezing. The metro is heated and efficient.

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Dubai, UAE – Modern Luxury with Perfect Winter Weather

The case for it: Sunshine, shopping, and surprisingly good food

December through February is the only time Dubai’s weather is genuinely pleasant—mid-70s to low-80s instead of unbearably hot. This is peak season for a reason, and while Dubai isn’t for everyone, it delivers on luxury, shopping, and that over-the-top experience that can be fun if you embrace it. The food scene has gotten legitimately impressive too, with top international chefs opening outposts.

Where to stay: Bulgari Resort Dubai is stunning—private island, excellent beach, incredible design. Atlantis The Royal is the newer, even-more-over-the-top version of Atlantis. For something with more soul, Al Maha Desert Resort offers luxury in the desert with incredible wildlife.

What to do: Desert safari at sunrise (skip the touristy sunset ones), visit the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa because you have to, eat at places like Zuma or La Petite Maison, and spend time at the beach. The Gold and Spice Souks in Deira offer a glimpse of old Dubai.

Know before you go: Dubai is expensive—budget accordingly. Dress modestly in public areas (covered shoulders and knees). December is peak season so book early. Uber and taxis are cheap and efficient.

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Iceland – For the Northern Lights and Dramatic Winter Landscapes

The case for it: Northern lights, fewer tourists than summer, and otherworldly scenery

December in Iceland is cold and dark, but if you want to see the Northern Lights, this is prime season. The landscapes are dramatic—black sand beaches, frozen waterfalls, steaming hot springs—and the darkness (only 4-5 hours of daylight) adds to the otherworldly atmosphere. It’s not for everyone, but if you want a trip that feels completely different from normal life, this is it.

Where to stay: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is built into lava rock with a private lagoon—it’s expensive but extraordinary. In Reykjavik, 101 Hotel is central and stylish. For something unique, ION Adventure Hotel is outside the city with Northern Lights viewing and access to nature.

What to do: Blue Lagoon (yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also genuinely wonderful in winter), Golden Circle tour (Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), black sand beaches at Reynisfjara, and glacier hiking if you’re adventurous. Chase the Northern Lights on a tour or rent a car and find dark spots.

Essential information: Weather is unpredictable—pack serious winter gear. Rent a 4WD if you’re driving (roads can be icy). Book Northern Lights tours but know they’re not guaranteed. Reykjavik’s food scene is excellent—budget for nice dinners. December 24-26 most things close for Christmas.

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Charleston, South Carolina – Southern Charm Without Summer Heat

The case for it: Beautiful weather, incredible food, and holiday magic

December in Charleston is lovely—mid-60s, no humidity, and the historic city decorated for the holidays feels even more charming than usual. This is one of America’s best food cities, the architecture is stunning, and the pace is slow enough that you actually relax. Plus, December means oyster season, which in Charleston is very much a thing worth celebrating.

Where to stay: The Spectator Hotel is boutique luxury in the French Quarter—small, beautifully designed, excellent bar. Zero George is intimate and design-forward. For something more classic, The Dewberry is mid-century modern with great service.

What to do: Walk through the Historic District (Rainbow Row, Battery, French Quarter), book a boat tour to see Fort Sumter, and eat constantly. Hit Husk, FIG, Halls Chophouse, and Leon’s for oysters. Take a day trip to Kiawah Island for beaches. Shop on King Street.

Local perspective: December is pleasant but can be rainy, so have indoor backup plans. Holiday tours of historic homes are beautiful but book ahead. Oyster roasts are the December activity—find one. The city is walkable but wear comfortable shoes (cobblestones).

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How to Choose Your December Destination

• If you want warm weather and beaches: Tulum, St. Lucia, or Dubai give you sunshine and swimsuits.
• If you’re chasing the Northern Lights: Iceland is your move, but commit to the cold and darkness.
• If you want Christmas markets and European winter: Vienna or Paris deliver that classic holiday atmosphere.
• If you need adventure: New Zealand offers summer hiking, water sports, and stunning landscapes.
• If you want culture and food: Morocco or Charleston combine both beautifully.

What to Consider Before You Book

Budget: December is peak season for many destinations (Caribbean, Europe), so prices are higher. Book flights and hotels 2-3 months out for better rates.

Crowds: Many places are busier in December (holidays, good weather). If you hate crowds, consider destinations where December is actually quieter or book for early December before Christmas week.

Weather research: December weather varies wildly by destination. Don’t assume—actually check average temperatures, rainfall, and what “winter” means there.

Holiday closures: December 24-26 many places (especially Europe) shut down for holidays. Plan around it or embrace a quiet few days.

The Bottom Line

December doesn’t have to mean stress and obligations. Some of the year’s best travel happens in December if you choose the right destination—whether that’s chasing summer in New Zealand, embracing European winter in Vienna, or finding that perfect warm-weather beach escape in Tulum.

Book the trip, set your out-of-office, and go. Future you will thank present you for prioritizing the reset.