December

1. Australia

December is the start of summer in Australia, bringing long sunny days and warm temperatures. Coastal cities like Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are perfect for beach escapes, while Melbourne offers a mix of arts, food and culture. The Great Barrier Reef is ideal for snorkelling and diving, and festive events give cities a lively, holiday feel without the extreme heat of later summer.

Must see:

• Sydney (harbour and Bondi Beach)
• Great Barrier Reef (snorkelling and marine life)

Flight time: Approximately 22 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +11
Temperature: Average 25°C to 35°C
Monthly rainfall: 60–100 mm
Recommended trip duration: 14–21 days
Top tip: Book accommodation and internal flights early due to summer holidays.

2. Austria

Austria in December is a festive delight, with snow-covered towns and charming Christmas markets across Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck. The Alps offer great skiing conditions, and cities are filled with twinkling lights and seasonal treats. It’s the perfect place for those looking to combine cultural charm with winter sports and traditional holiday atmosphere.

Must see:

• Vienna (Christmas markets and music)
• Innsbruck (Alpine skiing and mountain views)

Flight time: Approximately 2 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +1
Temperature: Average -1°C to 5°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–70 mm (some as snow)
Recommended trip duration: 5–8 days
Top tip: Dress warmly for evenings at outdoor markets.

3. Germany

Germany in December is famous for its festive atmosphere, with traditional Christmas markets in nearly every city and town. From Berlin and Munich to Nuremberg and Cologne, stalls overflow with mulled wine, decorations and seasonal food. The wintry landscape and cultural celebrations make it a perfect destination for a magical Christmas trip.

Must see:

• Cologne (cathedral and Christmas markets)
• Nuremberg (historic old town and Christkindlesmarkt)

Flight time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +1
Temperature: Average 0°C to 6°C
Monthly rainfall: 40–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 4–7 days
Top tip: Visit markets during the week for fewer crowds.

4. USA & Canada

December is a magical time across the USA and Canada, with snowy landscapes, city lights and holiday festivities. In the USA, Florida’s theme parks go all out for Christmas, while New York sparkles with decorations and ice rinks. In Canada, destinations like Banff and Lake Louise offer snowy scenery and cosy winter lodges, ideal for a festive escape.

Must see:

• New York City (holiday lights and skating)
• Banff National Park (winter scenery and hot springs)

Flight time: Approximately 7–10 hours from London
Time difference: GMT -4 to -8
Temperature: Average -5°C to 10°C (varies by location)
Monthly rainfall: 30–90 mm (some as snow)
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Pack warm layers for northern destinations, especially Canada.

5. South Africa

December is high summer in South Africa, offering warm, dry days perfect for exploring. Cape Town and the Garden Route are at their best, with beautiful beaches, vineyards and coastal scenery. Wildlife viewing remains good in many parks, and festive events and New Year celebrations make it a vibrant time to visit cities and countryside alike.

Must see:

• Cape Town (Table Mountain and beaches)
• Garden Route (road trip and coastal towns)

Flight time: Approximately 11–12 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +2
Temperature: Average 25°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 20–50 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Book early, as December is a popular holiday period.

6. Philippines

December is a fantastic time to visit the Philippines, with dry season beginning across much of the country. Expect blue skies, calm seas and ideal beach conditions. Island hopping, snorkelling and diving are at their best, especially in Palawan and the Visayas. The festive season brings local celebrations, lively parades and a warm welcome wherever you go.

Must see:

• Palawan (island hopping and lagoons)
• Cebu (beaches and cultural sites)

Flight time: Approximately 16–18 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +8
Temperature: Average 26°C to 31°C
Monthly rainfall: 40–70 mm
Recommended trip duration: 12–16 days
Top tip: Avoid major cities over Christmas for a more peaceful experience.

7. Mexico

December in Mexico is a blend of warm beach weather and rich cultural experiences. The coastal areas like Cancun and the Riviera Maya enjoy sunshine and sea, while inland cities like Oaxaca and Mexico City celebrate with vibrant festivals and lights. It’s also a great time to explore ancient ruins in comfortable temperatures.

Must see:

• Chichen Itza (Mayan ruins)
• Mexico City (historic centre and museums)

Flight time: Approximately 11–12 hours from London
Time difference: GMT -6
Temperature: Average 20°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 20–50 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Try traditional Christmas foods like tamales and ponche.

8. Switzerland

December in Switzerland offers classic winter scenery, with snow-covered mountains, scenic train rides and festive markets. Ski resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz are open, and lakeside towns like Lucerne and Geneva sparkle with Christmas lights. Whether you’re skiing or strolling through alpine villages, it’s a beautiful and festive time to visit.

Must see:

• Zermatt (skiing and views of the Matterhorn)
• Lucerne (Christmas market and old town)

Flight time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +1
Temperature: Average -2°C to 5°C
Monthly rainfall: 40–70 mm (some as snow)
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Book train tickets early for scenic mountain routes.

9. Colombia

December is the start of Colombia’s dry season, offering perfect conditions for exploring cities, beaches and the countryside. Bogotá and Medellín host colourful Christmas light displays, while Cartagena’s old town and nearby beaches are ideal for a tropical break. The festive spirit is strong throughout the country, with music, food and fireworks.

Must see:

• Cartagena (colonial charm and beaches)
• Medellín (Christmas lights and nightlife)

Flight time: Approximately 11–12 hours from London
Time difference: GMT -5
Temperature: Average 24°C to 30°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Visit Medellín’s light festival for a unique local experience.

10. Finland

December is a magical time to visit Finland, especially for those seeking a true winter wonderland. Snow covers much of the country, and Lapland is the place to meet Santa Claus, ride with reindeer and see the Northern Lights. Helsinki also comes alive with festive markets and seasonal foods.

Must see:

• Rovaniemi (Santa Claus Village and Northern Lights)
• Helsinki (Christmas markets and saunas)

Flight time: Approximately 3–3.5 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +2
Temperature: Average -10°C to -2°C
Monthly rainfall: 40 mm (mostly snow)
Recommended trip duration: 5–8 days
Top tip: Dress in layers and thermal wear for outdoor adventures.