December Holiday Travel Ideas: Top Destinations To Visit This Winter

December is a time for holiday cheer, family gatherings, and travel. With the winter season in full swing, there are plenty of destinations to choose from for those looking to get away. Whether you are seeking a winter wonderland or a warm-weather retreat, there are plenty of options for December holiday travel.

For those who love winter sports and chilly weather, mountain ski resorts like Vail or Jackson Hole are already open for business. These destinations offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, as well as festive holiday events. If you prefer to escape the cold, there are plenty of warm-weather destinations to choose from, such as the Caribbean, Hawaii, or Mexico. These locations offer sun, sand, and relaxation, making them perfect for those seeking a break from the winter weather.

No matter what your preference, there are plenty of December holiday travel ideas to choose from. Whether you want to hit the slopes or soak up the sun, there is a destination out there that is perfect for you. So start planning your holiday getaway today and make this December one to remember.

December Holiday Travel in the U.S.

Looking for the perfect December holiday travel destination in the United States? Look no further! With so many diverse options, there’s something for everyone. From snowy mountain escapes to warm coastal delights, the U.S. has it all.

Exploring New York City

New York City is a classic December holiday destination. With the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skating in Central Park, and the famous holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to the Big Apple during the holiday season. Visitors can also catch a Broadway show, visit the holiday markets, or take a stroll through the picturesque neighborhoods of Brooklyn.

California’s Winter Wonders

California may be known for its sunny beaches, but the winter season brings a whole new set of wonders. From skiing in Lake Tahoe to exploring the festive lights of San Francisco, California has plenty to offer during the holiday season. Visitors can also take a trip to Disneyland for their famous holiday celebrations or enjoy a scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway.

Florida’s Warm Holiday Season

Looking to escape the winter chill? Florida is the perfect place to soak up the sun during the holiday season. From the beaches of Miami to the theme parks of Orlando, there’s no shortage of activities in the Sunshine State. Visitors can also check out the holiday lights at the historic St. Augustine or enjoy the festive atmosphere of Key West.

Mountain Escapes in Colorado and Utah

For those who love winter sports, the mountains of Colorado and Utah are a must-visit during the holiday season. With world-class ski resorts like Vail, Aspen, and Park City, visitors can hit the slopes by day and cozy up by the fire at night. The charming mountain towns also offer holiday festivities like ice skating, sleigh rides, and holiday markets.

Small Town Charm in Branson and Santa Fe

Looking for a more low-key holiday experience? The small towns of Branson and Santa Fe offer plenty of charm and festive cheer. Branson, Missouri is known as America’s Christmas Tree City and offers a month-long holiday extravaganza with live music, festive lights, and parades. Santa Fe, New Mexico offers a unique holiday experience with its traditional luminaria displays, holiday markets, and cultural events.

Coastal Delights in Santa Barbara

For a more laid-back holiday experience, Santa Barbara offers stunning coastal views and a mild winter climate. Visitors can stroll along the beach, explore the charming downtown area, or take a scenic drive through the nearby wine country. The city also hosts a variety of holiday events like the annual boat parade and holiday markets.

No matter what your holiday travel style may be, the U.S. has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for snow or sun, city or small town, there’s a destination that’s perfect for you.

European Christmas Markets

Looking for an enchanting winter wonderland experience? Look no further than Europe’s traditional Christmas markets. With twinkling lights, delicious food, and unique gifts, these markets are a must-see during the holiday season. Here are three of the best markets to visit:

Germany’s Traditional Christmas Markets

Germany is known for its traditional Christmas markets, and for good reason. These markets, known as “Weihnachtsmärkte,” offer a festive atmosphere with mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread cookies. Visitors can browse handmade crafts and ornaments while listening to carols sung by local choirs. The most famous market is in Nuremberg, where over two million people visit each year.

Prague’s Fairytale Festive Season

Prague’s Christmas markets are a fairy tale come to life. The Old Town Square is transformed into a winter wonderland, with a giant Christmas tree and a nativity scene. Visitors can sample traditional Czech food, such as roasted ham and potato pancakes, while browsing handmade wooden toys and ornaments. The market also features a petting zoo and a carousel for children.

Rome’s Historical Holiday Spirit

Rome’s Christmas market, known as “Mercatino di Natale,” is held in Piazza Navona, a beautiful Baroque square. The market is filled with stalls selling Italian delicacies, such as panettone and torrone, as well as handmade crafts and gifts. Visitors can also enjoy a skating rink and a carousel. The market is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers.

In summary, European Christmas markets offer a magical experience for visitors during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for traditional German markets, a fairy tale atmosphere in Prague, or historical charm in Rome, there is a market for everyone to enjoy.

Winter Sports and Activities

Ski Resorts in Vail and Europe

For those who love winter sports, December is the perfect time to hit the slopes. Ski resorts in Vail and Europe offer some of the best skiing experiences. Vail, located in Colorado, boasts over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, with a variety of runs suitable for all levels of skiers. For those looking for a European ski experience, the Alps offer some of the most picturesque skiing destinations in the world. Some popular ski resorts in the Alps include Chamonix in France, Zermatt in Switzerland, and St. Anton in Austria.

Ice Skating in New York City

Ice skating in New York City is a quintessential winter activity. The iconic rink at Rockefeller Center is a must-visit, with its stunning backdrop of the Rockefeller Christmas tree. Other popular ice skating rinks in New York City include Central Park’s Wollman Rink and Bryant Park’s Winter Village.

Après-Ski in Colorado

Après-ski, a French term meaning “after skiing,” refers to the social activities that take place after a day of skiing. Colorado is known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with many ski resorts offering a variety of options for food, drinks, and entertainment. Some popular après-ski spots in Colorado include The Red Lion in Vail, Ajax Tavern in Aspen, and The Little Bar in Telluride.

Snow Tubing in Utah

For those looking for a fun and family-friendly winter activity, snow tubing is a great option. Utah offers some of the best snow tubing destinations in the country, with resorts such as Soldier Hollow and Gorgoza Park offering multiple lanes and varying degrees of difficulty. Snow tubing is a great way to enjoy the snow without having to ski or snowboard.

Overall, December offers a variety of winter sports and activities for travelers to enjoy. From skiing in Vail and Europe to ice skating in New York City, there is something for everyone. Après-ski in Colorado and snow tubing in Utah are also great options for those looking for a more laid-back winter experience.

Holiday Travel in the Southern Hemisphere

For those seeking a break from the cold and snow of the Northern Hemisphere, the Southern Hemisphere offers a range of warm and sunny destinations to enjoy during the holiday season. Here are some top picks for holiday travel in the Southern Hemisphere:

Summer Holidays in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa is a popular destination for summer holidays in the Southern Hemisphere. Visitors can enjoy warm temperatures and sunny days while taking in the stunning scenery of Table Mountain and the surrounding coastline. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and beach lounging. For those looking for a more cultural experience, Cape Town has a rich history and diverse culinary scene to explore.

Tropical Christmas in Miami

Miami is a great option for those looking for a tropical Christmas experience. With average temperatures in the mid-70s, visitors can enjoy the city’s beaches and outdoor activities without the winter chill. Miami also offers a range of holiday events and festivals, including the Art Basel Miami Beach art fair and the Miami City Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker.

Australian Christmas Down Under

Christmas in Australia is a unique experience, with warm temperatures and a relaxed, beachy vibe. Visitors can enjoy outdoor barbecues, beach parties, and festive events such as Carols by Candlelight. For those looking to escape the holiday crowds, Australia’s natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback offer plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Overall, the Southern Hemisphere offers a range of holiday travel options for those seeking a warm and sunny escape during the winter months. From the beaches of Miami to the cultural richness of Cape Town, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Exotic Holiday Destinations

Looking for a unique holiday experience this December? Consider these exotic holiday destinations for a memorable trip.

Caribbean Christmas

Escape the cold and head to the Caribbean coast for a warm and festive holiday season. With beautiful beaches, clear waters, and plenty of activities, the Caribbean offers a perfect setting for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation. Anguilla is a great option for those seeking a luxurious private island experience, while the Bahamas and Belize offer a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Private Island Getaways

For those seeking ultimate privacy and seclusion, a private island getaway is the perfect choice. The Maldives, with its crystal-clear waters and overwater bungalows, is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples. Mexico also offers a variety of private island resorts, such as Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox, where guests can enjoy a peaceful and romantic escape.

Festive Season in the Maldives

Experience the festive season in a unique way by spending it in the Maldives. Many resorts offer special Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, including beach parties, fireworks, and live music. Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner with a tropical twist, and spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the underwater world.

Indian Winter Escapes

Escape the cold and head to India for a winter getaway. From the beaches of Goa to the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India offers a diverse range of destinations for a memorable holiday. Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, go on a wildlife safari in Ranthambore National Park, or explore the vibrant city of Mumbai.

No matter which exotic holiday destination you choose, be sure to plan ahead and book early to ensure availability and get the best deals.

Unique Holiday Experiences

For travelers looking for something different this holiday season, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had. Here are some ideas for holiday travel that offer a new perspective on the season.

Northern Lights Viewing

For those who love the cold and snow, a trip to see the Northern Lights is a must. The Aurora Borealis can be seen in several countries, including Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Canada. Travelers can take guided tours to see the lights, or even stay in a glass igloo for a truly immersive experience.

Wildlife Encounters

For animal lovers, a holiday trip to see wildlife can be a memorable experience. Gray whales migrate to the Baja Peninsula in Mexico from December to April, and travelers can take boat tours to see them up close. In Africa, safari tours offer the chance to see lions, elephants, and other majestic animals in their natural habitats.

Krampus Tradition in Austria

For a unique cultural experience, travelers can visit Austria during the holiday season to witness the Krampus tradition. Krampus is a demonic creature who punishes naughty children, and is often seen in parades with St. Nicholas. The tradition is celebrated in various towns throughout Austria.

Exploring Mayan Ruins in Mexico

For history buffs, a trip to explore Mayan ruins in Mexico can be a fascinating experience. The ancient city of Chichen Itza is a popular destination, with its iconic pyramid and other impressive ruins. Visitors can learn about the Mayan culture and history while enjoying the warm weather and beautiful scenery.

Overall, there are plenty of unique holiday experiences to be had for those willing to venture off the beaten path. From natural wonders to cultural traditions, these travel ideas offer a new perspective on the holiday season.

Conclusion

In summary, December is a great time to travel and there are many destinations to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a snowy winter wonderland or a warm beach getaway, there’s something for everyone.

Some popular options for winter sports enthusiasts include Vail, Colorado and Whistler, British Columbia. For those seeking sun and sand, Jamaica and Santa Barbara, California are great choices. And for a festive holiday experience, tinsel towns like New York City and Paris are sure to delight.

It’s important to keep in mind that December is a busy travel season, so it’s best to book accommodations and activities in advance to ensure availability. Additionally, travelers should be prepared for potential weather delays and cancellations, especially if flying to a destination with winter weather.

No matter where you choose to go, December is a magical time to travel and create unforgettable memories with loved ones.