TL;DR: In December, the best places to visit are Vienna in Austria, Algarve in Portugal, Lapland in Finland, Tokyo in Japan, Phuket in Thailand, Bali in Indonesia, Cartagena in Colombia, Quebec City in Canada, Cape Town in South Africa, and Queenstown in New Zealand, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 32°C, common seasonal activities and events.

In December, some regions have cold and snowy weather, while others have warm and dry conditions. It is a period marked by seasonal events, local festivals, and different travel climates around the world. Many cities host Christmas markets and winter celebrations, while tropical destinations have calm seas and clear skies. International visitors can plan their trips based on climate preferences, from skiing and sightseeing to outdoor activities in warmer regions.

What are the Best Places to Visit in December?

The best places to visit in December are Vienna in Austria, Algarve in Portugal, Lapland in Finland, Tokyo in Japan, Phuket in Thailand, Bali in Indonesia, Cartagena in Colombia, Quebec City in Canada, Cape Town in South Africa, and Queenstown in New Zealand. Temperatures range from -10°C to 32°C, with seasonal highlights such as northern lights viewing, winter sports, and traditional Christmas markets.

Overview of the Best Places to Visit in December

In December, Lapland in Finland has temperatures between -10°C and -2°C with snowy weather and northern lights. Tokyo in Japan is mild at 4°C to 12°C [1] with winter light events, Vienna in Austria is cold at -1°C to 4°C [2] with light snow and Christmas markets, while Phuket in Thailand has 28°C to 32°C with occasional rain. The average stay across these destinations is between 4 and 7 days. Below is an overview of 10 popular destinations to visit in December:

Table 1: Overview of the Best Destinations to Travel in December

Note: The average temperatures and rainfall are approximate and may vary depending on specific locations and weather conditions at the time of travel. The recommended length of stay is based on common travel experiences but may vary depending on personal preferences and the types of activities you wish to pursue.

Note: The plan options, prices, and expiration dates in the table were verified on November 3, 2025, based on the information available from Roamless' official website.

Disclaimer: Please verify local weather forecasts before planning your trip and check the current eSIM plan options directly with Roamless' official website before making a purchase.

Best Places in Europe to Travel in December

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is cold and festive in December, famous for its historical sites and traditional Christmas markets.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: The temperature ranges from -1°C to 4°C, with light snow and crisp air.

• Notable Events: Christmas markets and cultural concerts throughout the city.

• Special Places: Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral are key winter attractions.

• Average Travel Cost: Expect to spend $140–$220 per day for accommodations, dining, and cultural experiences.

• Recommended Length of Stay: The average visit lasts between 4 and 6 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Austria page or check out our the Best eSIM for Austria guide.

2. Algarve, Portugal

Algarve has mild weather in December, with fewer crowds and clear days for outdoor activities.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: The temperature ranges from 10°C to 15°C, with occasional rain.

• Notable Events: Algarve International Circuit events and local winter fairs.

• Special Places: Lagos, Albufeira, and Cape St. Vincent are well-known scenic areas.

• Average Travel Cost: Plan for $130–$200 per day for accommodations and coastal activities.

• Recommended Length of Stay: The typical stay is between 4 and 6 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Portugal page or check out our the Best eSIM for Portugal guide.

You can also check our the Best time to visit Portugal guide for more information.

3. Lapland, Finland

Lapland has subarctic conditions with consistent snowfall and clear skies ideal for observing the Northern Lights.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: The temperature ranges from -10°C to -2°C, with continuous snowfall throughout the month.

• Notable Events: Northern Lights viewing and various winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling.

• Special Places: Lapland is home to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.

• Average Travel Cost: Expect to spend $180–$250 per day for accommodations, meals, and winter tours.

• Recommended Length of Stay: The average stay is between 4 and 5 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Finland page or check out our the Best eSIM for Finland guide.

Top Destinations to Visit in Asia in December

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo remains mild and dry, with pleasant weather for visiting landmarks and attending cultural events.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: The temperature ranges from 4°C to 12°C, with dry air and low humidity.

• Notable Events: Light festivals and the Asia Philanthropy Conference.

• Special Places: Sensō-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, and Tokyo Tower are major highlights in December.

• Average Travel Cost: Expect to spend $150–$230 per day for accommodations, dining, and attractions.

• Recommended Length of Stay: The usual visit lasts between 5 and 6 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Tokyo and eSIM Japan pages or check out our the Best eSIM for Japan guide.

You can also check our the Best time to visit Japan guide for more information.

5. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket remains hot with calm seas, making December one of the most favorable months for coastal activities.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: Temperatures stay between 28°C and 32°C, with light rain.

• Notable Events: Carnival Magic Phuket and water sports along the coast.

• Special Places: Patong Beach and Big Buddha are among Phuket’s main attractions.

• Average Travel Cost: Budget around $120–$190 per day for accommodations, beach activities, and dining.

• Recommended Length of Stay: Most international visitors stay between 5 and 7 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Phuket and eSIM Thailand pages or read our post on the Best eSIM for Thailand.

You can also check our the Best time to visit Thailand guide for more information.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Bali experiences tropical conditions in December, with short rain showers followed by warm and humid weather.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: The temperature ranges from 25°C to 30°C, with moderate humidity.

• Notable Events: Bali Arts Festival, temple visits, and local cultural performances.

• Special Places: Ubud’s rice terraces and Tanah Lot Temple are must-visit landmarks.

• Average Travel Cost: Plan for $100–$170 per day for accommodations, dining, and local excursions.

• Recommended Length of Stay: Tourists generally stay for 7 to 10 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Bali and eSIM Indonesia pages or check out our the Best eSIM for Indonesia guide.

You can also check our the Best time to visit Bali guide for more information.

Best Destinations to Visit in South and North America in December

7. Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena stays warm and dry in December, ideal for visiting historical sites and enjoying beachside activities.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: Temperatures range from 28°C to 32°C, with little to no rain.

• Notable Events: Hay Festival Cartagena and local cultural performances.

• Special Places: The Walled City and Castillo San Felipe de Barajas are notable landmarks.

• Average Travel Cost: Expect to spend $130–$210 per day for accommodations, local dining, and guided tours.

• Recommended Length of Stay: Visitors usually stay for 5 to 7 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Colombia page or check out our the Best eSIM for Colombia guide.

8. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City has cold, snowy weather and a festive atmosphere filled with traditional decorations and markets.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: The temperature ranges from -10°C to -5°C, with frequent snowfall.

• Notable Events: The German Christmas Market and seasonal winter celebrations.

• Special Places: The Old Town and Château Frontenac are popular winter landmarks.

• Average Travel Cost: Plan for $170–$250 per day for accommodations, winter activities, and dining.

• Recommended Length of Stay: The typical stay is between 5 and 6 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM Canada page or check out our the Best eSIM for Canada guide.

Best African Destination to Travel in December

9. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is warm and dry in December, with long sunny days suitable for hiking and visiting coastal areas.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: Temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, with low rainfall and clear skies.

• Notable Events: AfricArena Grand Summit, beach activities, and nature hikes.

• Special Places: Table Mountain and Cape Point offer panoramic views of the city and ocean.

• Average Travel Cost: Budget around $120–$200 per day for accommodations, meals, and local excursions.

• Recommended Length of Stay: International visitors usually stay for 5 to 7 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM South Africa page or check out our the Best eSIM for South Africa guide.

Best Destination to Visit in Oceania in December

10. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown has mild weather in December, offering suitable conditions for outdoor activities and adventure sports.

• Average Temperature and Precipitation: Temperatures vary between 10°C and 20°C, with occasional rain showers.

• Notable Events: Nature tours and outdoor adventure activities.

• Special Places: Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range are among the area’s most scenic spots.

• Average Travel Cost: Expect to spend $160–$240 per day for accommodations, adventure activities, and dining.

• Recommended Length of Stay: The usual visit lasts between 4 to 6 days.

• Mobile Internet: Visit our eSIM New Zealand page or check out our the Best eSIM for New Zealand guide.

You can also check our the Best time to visit New Zealand guide for more information.

Why Roamless eSIM is Ideal for December Travel

Roamless eSIM is a practical option for December travelers who need consistent mobile data in different regions. It allows users to use mobile internet easily without physical SIM cards or high roaming costs.

• Instant activation: Activate your eSIM before departure and start using data as soon as you arrive.

• Multi-network access: Connect automatically to available local networks for stable coverage.

• Flexible data plans: Select plans according to travel duration and data requirements.

• Free Trial: Try Roamless eSIM with free initial data to test connectivity before your trip.

• Device compatibility: Works with most modern smartphones and tablets that include eSIM functionality.

• Cost-efficient: Use local data rates instead of paying international roaming fees.

• Environmentally conscious: Eliminates the need for plastic SIM cards, reducing waste.

• Dual SIM support: Continue using your main number while accessing data through eSIM.

A Global eSIM like Roamless ensures reliable mobile internet throughout December, from winter destinations to tropical regions.

You can also check our guide on the best places to visit in January, best European Christmas markets and best countries to visit for Christmas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Should I Visit in December?

- You can visit Lapland in Finland or Quebec City in Canada for snow and winter sports, Vienna for Christmas markets, Cape Town, Bali, Phuket, or Cartagena for beaches and warm weather, Tokyo for festivals and shopping, Queenstown for adventure sports, and Algarve for mild weather and golf.

What Are the Warm Places to Visit in December?

- Warm places to visit in December include Cape Town in South Africa, Bali in Indonesia, Phuket in Thailand, Queenstown in New Zealand, and Cartagena in Colombia.

What Are the Cold Places to Travel in December?

- Cold places to travel in December are Lapland in Finland, Vienna in Austria, and Quebec City in Canada.

Where Can I See the Northern Lights in December?

- You can see the Northern Lights in December in high-latitude destinations such as Lapland in Finland.

Where Can I Visit Christmas Markets in December?

- You can visit the market at Rathausplatz in Vienna, which runs from 14 November to 26 December  [3], and the German Christmas Market in Québec City, which runs from 20 November to 23 December  [4].

How Do I Activate Roamless eSIM for My December Travel?

- You can activate a Roamless eSIM for your December travel by downloading the Roamless app, selecting your destination, purchasing a suitable plan, and following the instructions through the app to activate your eSIM on your iPhone or Android device.

Sources:

[1] Japan Meteorological Agency. ''Tables of Climatological Normals (1991–2020)'' . Accessed November, 2025. - https://www.data.jma.go.jp/stats/data/en/normal/normal.html

[2] World Weather & Climate Information. ''Austria weather in December, averages''. Accessed November, 2025. - https://weather-and-climate.com/averages-Austria-December

[3] Weiner Christkindlmarkt. ''Visiting the Vienna Christmas Market''. Accessed November, 2025. - https://www.christkindlmarkt.at/en/your-visit/#overview

[4] The Québec City German Christmas Market. ''The Québec City German Christmas Market''. Accessed November, 2025. - https://www.mnaq.ca/en/