December is a special time of year, the air feels different, festive lights sparkle in every corner, and there’s a global sense of celebration. If you’re chasing snowflakes, warm winter sunshine, Christmas markets, or peaceful retreats, December is the perfect month to travel and end your year on a high note.

From charming towns wrapped in snow to tropical beaches under golden sunsets, here are 15 of the best destinations to visit in December that promise a magical year-end holiday you won’t forget.

If you're dreaming of a fairytale Christmas, Vienna delivers it in grand style. Come December, the city transforms into a glittering wonderland with elegant architecture draped in twinkling lights and the sound of classical music floating through the streets. It's no surprise that Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the most enchanting in Europe.

The famous Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is the heart of the festivities, offering mulled wine, gingerbread, and handcrafted gifts beneath a towering tree. Explore the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace, where another stunning market awaits, complete with carol performances and charming stalls.

In between your market hopping, don’t miss a visit to one of the city’s historic coffee houses for a slice of Sachertorte. And for something truly magical, lace up your skates at the ice rink outside City Hall. Vienna in December is elegant, musical, and utterly unforgettable.

If you’re after full-on festive magic, Lapland is the dream destination. Located in the far north of Finland, this snowy wilderness is the official home of Father Christmas and delivers on every Christmas fantasy you can imagine, from sleigh rides to reindeer encounters.

December is prime time to experience the Northern Lights, especially from a cosy glass igloo or a wilderness cabin. Daytime brings exhilarating adventures like husky sledding, snowmobile safaris, and visits to the Santa Claus Village, where you can cross the Arctic Circle.

But it's not just for families, couples and solo travellers will find peace in the silent, snow-covered landscapes. With its soft powder snow, fire-lit lodges, and northern charm, Lapland is the ultimate escape into the heart of winter wonder.

Tokyo in December is a mesmerising blend of modern sparkle and traditional calm. The city goes all-out with its winter illuminations, bright, artistic displays that light up shopping districts and parks. Yet at the same time, there's a sense of peaceful reflection as the year draws to a close.

Visit Shibuya and Roppongi for jaw-dropping Christmas light displays, or head to Tokyo Midtown for a magical, artistic showcase. Foodies will love the seasonal street snacks and Christmas-themed desserts found throughout the city.

What makes December special in Tokyo is the balance. It’s not peak travel season, so crowds are thinner and the vibe is more relaxed. Round off your visit with a trip to a local temple for a quiet end-of-year moment, it’s the perfect mix of festive buzz and serene beauty.

There’s nothing quite like New York during the holidays, it’s the stuff Christmas films are made of. The city buzzes with energy as festive lights, giant trees, and cosy cafés line the streets. If you want to feel like you're in your very own holiday movie, this is the place to be.

Start at the iconic Rockefeller Centre, where the giant Christmas tree sparkles above the skating rink. Wander along Fifth Avenue to see world-famous window displays, then warm up with hot cocoa as you explore Bryant Park’s Winter Village.

Beyond the lights and shopping, New York in December offers magical moments, carriage rides through Central Park, Broadway’s seasonal shows, and snow-covered strolls in Manhattan. It’s bold, bright, and brimming with festive spirit.

Looking to swap snow for sunshine? December is summer in Cape Town, making it a perfect destination for those who prefer a warm-weather Christmas. With blue skies, beach days, and vineyard views, it’s a festive season done differently.

Soak up the sun on Camps Bay Beach, take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, or sip wine in the Cape Winelands, all under balmy skies. For something extra special, the V&A Waterfront hosts vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations with fireworks and live music.

Cape Town's December vibe is joyful and relaxed. If you’re lounging seaside or exploring the mountains, it’s a refreshing alternative to the usual winter getaway, ideal for beach lovers, foodies, and adventure seekers alike.

Prague in December feels like stepping inside a snow globe. The city’s fairytale skyline, gothic towers, cobbled streets, and baroque buildings, becomes even more enchanting under a dusting of snow and twinkling festive lights.

The Old Town Square Christmas Market is a feast for the senses, filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and spiced wine. Local craftsmen sell handmade gifts, and choirs fill the air with traditional carols. It’s festive charm at its finest.

Early risers will be rewarded with a peaceful sunrise at Charles Bridge, and in the evening, nothing beats a hearty Czech meal by candlelight in a cosy medieval tavern. For a holiday filled with history, romance, and seasonal magic, Prague is hard to beat.

If you’re in the mood for a sunny escape with a side of adrenaline, Queenstown is the place. December marks the start of summer in New Zealand, bringing longer days, stunning views, and endless outdoor adventures.

Enjoy a peaceful cruise on Lake Wakatipu, followed by a festive lakeside BBQ as the sun sets over the Remarkables mountain range. Or, for something more thrilling, try jet boating, bungy jumping, or a scenic helicopter ride, Queenstown is adventure capital, after all.

But it’s not all action, the region is also home to world-class wineries and relaxing spa retreats. If you're after excitement or serenity (or a bit of both), Queenstown makes for an unforgettable Southern Hemisphere summer holiday.

Rovaniemi is the beating heart of Lapland and the official hometown of Santa Claus, and yes, it’s every bit as magical as it sounds. Nestled on the edge of the Arctic Circle, this snowy sanctuary comes alive in December with festive cheer, glowing lights, and enough Christmas charm to melt even the iciest grinches.

Families will love SantaPark, where little ones can bake with elves, cross the Arctic Circle, and deliver letters directly to Father Christmas himself. For adults, the romance of the season takes shape in the form of snowmobile safaris, fireside feasts, and stargazing beneath the ethereal Northern Lights.

And when the day winds down, you’ll retreat to your cosy log cabin or even a glass igloo, where the snow falls gently outside and silence surrounds you. Rovaniemi is festive, heartwarming, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every age.

London truly comes into its own in December. The entire city sparkles with festive lights, shopfronts transform into winter spectacles, and every corner seems to buzz with holiday excitement. From world-famous attractions to hidden Christmas markets, London offers a winter experience like no other.

Start your festive journey at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a sprawling fairground filled with food stalls, an ice palace, and endless holiday fun. Then stroll through Oxford Street and Regent Street, where twinkling displays overhead make every evening feel magical.

Fancy something a little more traditional? Catch a pantomime show, sip mulled wine along the Southbank Centre Winter Market, or warm up in a charming pub with a roaring fireplace. If you're shopping, sightseeing or just soaking up the cheer, London in December is as magical as it gets.

If your ideal December doesn’t involve coats and scarves, the Maldives might be your perfect match. With its turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and overwater villas, it offers a sun-soaked escape with luxurious touches and total tranquillity.

December marks the start of the dry season, meaning bright blue skies and postcard-perfect conditions. If you're lounging in a hammock over the sea, enjoying a sunset cruise, or snorkelling with manta rays, every day feels like a holiday in paradise.

Despite being a tropical destination, resorts still offer a festive atmosphere with candlelit dinners, spa specials, and even palm tree “Christmas trees”. If you’re craving calm, warmth, and a touch of indulgence, the Maldives is a December dream come true.

Step into a storybook setting with Salzburg, where snow-dusted rooftops and old-world charm create the ultimate backdrop for a festive escape. As the birthplace of Mozart and home to the original “Silent Night”, the city hums with music and magic throughout December.

The Salzburg Fortress watches over the charming streets below, while horse-drawn sleighs trot past quaint Christmas markets filled with handmade trinkets and sweet-smelling treats. For those who want something more peaceful than the big European capitals, Salzburg offers an intimate and elegant holiday experience.

Don’t miss a visit to the Silent Night Chapel, or a stroll along the Salzach River under twinkling lights. With carollers, classical concerts, and traditional Austrian cuisine, Salzburg captures the spirit of the season with grace and timeless beauty.

For a more spiritual and serene take on the holiday season, Bali in December offers a unique blend of relaxation, culture, and tropical charm. While it’s the start of the rainy season, showers are often short, leaving plenty of time to explore the island’s natural beauty and tranquil retreats.

If you're wandering through Ubud’s rice terraces, enjoying a coffee by the beach in Canggu, or experiencing Balinese temple rituals, there’s a calming energy in Bali that makes it perfect for a year-end reset. December also brings festive beach parties and wellness events, giving your holidays a laid-back, barefoot twist.

It’s a brilliant option for those seeking peace without missing out on celebration. With yoga sessions at sunrise, seafood feasts by the sea, and a warm breeze in the air, Bali is the perfect place to reflect, recharge, and welcome the new year.

If you’re a snow lover, Banff in December is pure winter wonderland. Surrounded by the soaring Canadian Rockies, this alpine town is blanketed in snow, dotted with twinkling lights, and filled with that cosy, festive charm that makes winter feel truly magical.

Lake Louise turns into a giant skating rink framed by snow-covered pines, while nearby ski resorts offer some of the best powder around. Don’t miss a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or a peaceful ice walk through Johnston Canyon, where frozen waterfalls glitter like crystal chandeliers.

After a day in the snow, you’ll find warmth in the form of crackling fires, mountain lodges, and naturally heated hot springs. Banff offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a top pick for a truly Canadian Christmas.

Often hailed as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg delivers festive spirit in glorious old-world style. Its Christkindelsmärik is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, stretching across the charming squares of this Alsatian city.

Wander through rows of half-timbered houses adorned with wreaths and fairy lights, and indulge in warm Alsace wine, gingerbread, and rich local cheeses. Each corner of Strasbourg glows with tradition and authenticity, making it feel both welcoming and magical.

Highlights include the towering Great Christmas Tree, festive choirs, and the picturesque Petite France district. For those who adore classic Christmas experiences with a French twist, Strasbourg is as merry and magical as they come.

Looking for sunshine with a sprinkle of festive glamour? Dubai in December is a sparkling blend of luxury, lights, and unique holiday experiences. With pleasant weather and endless things to do, it’s a brilliant destination for both relaxation and celebration.

Visit the dazzling Global Village, explore the floral wonderland at Dubai Miracle Garden, or sip a festive brunch in the shade of the Burj Khalifa. For something different, you can ski indoors at Ski Dubai, then catch fireworks on the beach by night.

Dubai blends tradition and modernity effortlessly, offering something for everyone, from world-class shopping to desert adventures. If you want festive vibes without the chill, this city delivers a holiday season with plenty of sparkle and sunshine.

Once you’ve narrowed down your dream destinations for a magical December escape, it’s time to turn plans into reality, and with the Traveloka EPIC Sale, you can do so without breaking the bank. Whether you're dreaming of snowy adventures, festive city breaks, or tropical retreats to end the year in style, this is your chance to book it all at unbeatable value.

From 11 April to 5 May 2025, Traveloka is offering up to 60% OFF across flights, hotels, attractions, and activities. Keep an eye out for the highly anticipated EPIC HOUR flash deals, daily from 7 PM to 9 PM, with bonus time slots from 12 PM–2 PM on selected dates. Score up to 50% OFF international flights to destinations like Japan and China, and enjoy hotel stays from just RM100 per night, plus Buy 1 Get 1 Free deals on experiences you’ll never forget.

Don't miss the Crazy Flight 5.5 Sale (Flight Flat Price), available from 1–5 May, where you can grab unbeatable flat rates on selected flight routes for a limited time only.

Don’t forget, you can also earn free Traveloka Points by completing easy in-app missions, unlocking even more savings on your next booking. So as you get ready to end the year on a high note, make sure you’ve got the best deals in hand.