My Top Places to Visit in December
December is here, the temperatures are dropping, and the festive season is (almost) in full swing. I’m writing this blasting out the Christmas tunes! This time of year is the perfect time to get away for a spot of Christmas shopping, enjoy a Gluhwein (or two) at a Christmas market, or just escape for a few days to relax and recharge. Not surprisingly my December top five has taken on a more wintery feel, so if you’re looking for winter sun, you might want to read my Top Ten Winter Sun Destinations article here. Read on for some travel inspiration with my top five places to visit in December.
Germany
First up on my list of top five places to visit in December is Germany. I usually try to pick a city, but it’s impossible to it narrow down to just one, to be honest. If you want to visit a traditional Christmas market, then you can’t go wrong with Germany. There are connections to most German cities from regional airports in the UK so it’s super easy to get there, the flight times are usually pretty short, and transport connections in Germany are amazing so it’s easy to travel between cities too.
I’ve visited the Christmas markets in Berlin and Dusseldorf, but I’d also love to visit Cologne’s market as that looks beautiful. Other famous German markets include Nuremberg, Munich, and Dresden which transform into winter wonderlands with hundreds of stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and seasonal treats. The markets in Germany are a big social event with groups of friends getting together to socialise and enjoy some treats. The atmosphere will be buzzing whatever time of day you visit.
If you fancy something festive, but a bit less busy than a Christmas market, a visit to regions such as the Bavarian Alps or the Black Forest are particularly stunning during the winter season. Providing a peaceful countryside escape from the hustle and bustle of Christmas.
London
When you mention Christmas and London in the same sentence, most people would think of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. Of course, this is a massive draw with thousands of people making a special trip to London each year to visit, but there is so much more.
London is one of the best Christmas shopping destinations in the UK! With something to suit every budget and all tastes. From the High Street shops of Oxford Street to the ultra-luxury in Harrod’s, you will be able to tick off many of your gifts. Many visitors also make the pilgrimage to famous British brands such as Liberty or Fortnum & Mason to pick up unique Christmas treats.
It’s also a great opportunity to get a pre-Christmas theatre trip in, maybe as an early Christmas present, or to see something festive such as Elf to get you in the mood for Christmas. Theatre trips are also popular during that Twixmas period. Book some tickets, pop them in your loved one’s Christmas stocking, and then head off together for a break post-Christmas. New Year’s Eve has become a major attraction in London over the festive period. Thousands line the river banks and surrounding areas to see the amazing fireworks set off from the London Eye. It’s more popular than ever post-Covid, making it one the best places to visit in December.
Prague
Prague is absolutely magical in the winter… but very cold! We just missed the Christmas markets, they were being set up as we left. They did look beautiful though. One thing I would say about Prague in winter is wrap up warm. Take plenty of layers, and then when you think you’ve packed enough, throw a couple more in! I’ve never felt cold like it, I was wearing 3 pairs of socks to go out at night! But I’d still go back in a heartbeat because it’s gorgeous.
Prague is set up well to deal with the cold weather. Most restaurants have an outdoor area kitted out with heat lamps and blankets on the seats. We sat outside for mulled wine and honestly felt warm enough. There is also plenty of indoor space if you prefer. Prague is beautiful to walk around on a cold day with the winter sun hitting the tops of the buildings and glinting off the snow if you have any (we did in November!). It’s also gorgeous at night with the twinkling lights of the castle shining down over the city.
Of course, you can see all of this and get festive too with their beautiful Christmas markets selling traditional gifts, drinks, and treats such as the chimney cake (try one, they’re amazing!). The Old Town Square has a massive tree and is decorated with lights, creating a real winter wonderland. Did I mention the Czech food? If there was ever food that was perfect for cold weather, you’ll find it here! We’re talking goulash, a beef stew served with whipped cream and dumplings… honestly, it works, and massive grilled sausages. Yum!
Edinburgh
Another UK destination which receives thousands of visitors every year. This is why it was included in my top five places to visit in December. From the famous Christmas to the legendary Hogmanay celebrations, there’s something in Edinburgh for every visitor.
The Christmas market in Edinburgh is widely celebrated as one of the best. Princes Street Gardens are transformed into a festive hub with plenty of stalls, an ice rink, and a giant Ferris wheel. The Royal Mile is adorned with twinkling lights, giving a magical atmosphere for visitors. Many of the city’s top restaurants and hotels also go to town on their decorations so you can start feeling festive from the moment you arrive.
The annual Hogmanay celebrations are also another huge draw for the crowds. The festivities start throughout December, building up to the main event on New Year’s Eve. Highlights include the Torchlight Procession and the huge street party on Princes Street. Don’t forget the amazing midnight fireworks over the Castle!
If the festivities get a bit too much, and you need to escape for a quiet moment, there are plenty of winter walks around the city. Take a winter walk up Arthur’s Seat (when the weather allows) for panoramic views of the city. Or take a stroll through Holyrood Park for some peace and quiet.
Lapland
Think of Lapland and you probably think of Santa Claus and his elves. But there is another side to Lapland too, and many operators are offering trips aimed more at adults. Lapland is the ultimate December destination, especially if you love snow, winter activities, and all things festive!
Family Lapland
Let’s talk about Santa trips first. Every November and December, specialist operators run family trips out to Lapland where you get to go on an adventure to meet Santa Claus. This usually involves some kind of trail, led by the elves, where you solve puzzles, complete activities or take part in games on the way to see the big man himself. You’re then usually led to a magical setting to meet Santa Claus in his home. Each family gets their own timeslot to visit Santa, so your children get some one-on-one time with him. They can share their Christmas wishes and receive a gift from Santa too. This is the main attraction for family trips, but you can also take part in sledding, reindeer sleigh rides, husky rides, snowmobile experiences, and much more. These really are action-packed trips with a big sprinkling of Christmas magic.
Adult Lapland
If searching for Santa isn’t your thing, but you still love winter and some snowy fun, don’t discount Lapland entirely! There has been a rise in trips aimed more at adults. These include experiences such as husky rides, reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile trips, hunting for the Northern Lights, and much more. You can also choose to stay in a glass igloo for star gazing and Northern Lights watching, or an ice hotel!
Lapland has many towns and villages perfect for a visit. Some of the larger towns hold their own Christmas markets if you need that extra Christmas fix. They have stalls selling local crafts, festive foods, and decorations. It’s also possible to take part in trips where you get to learn about Sami culture and traditions, taking part in activities such as reindeer herding.
New York
I know, I know, the title of this article is Top Five Places to Visit in December, but I couldn’t help sneaking in a 6th! I’ve already included New York in another of my top five countdowns but just had to include it for December too! If you’re looking for the ultimate Christmas city break, in my opinion, you really can’t get any more festive than New York. Arriving in New York during the Christmas season is like walking straight onto the set of the Home Alone or Elf movies. There is so much you recognise from films and also so many new things to discover.
Why New York?
If you love a good Christmas tree, then you’re in the right city. The tree at the Rockefeller Centre is obviously the most famous, and a must-see. But there are also amazing trees scattered throughout the city at hotels, shopping centres, and parks. Other must-see attractions include the window displays along Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, Saks, and Bergdorf Goodman. If you want to try your hand at ice skating, the Rockefeller and Central Park rinks are two of the most popular. Many of the museums are also fully decorated and have special festive exhibits. And if you fancy a festive show, then the Rockettes at Radio City should be top of the list! Away from the city centre, taking a guided tour through Dyker Heights will get you in the Christmas mood. The houses go all out with decorations and lights and it’s really something to see.
Still, got some Christmas gifts to tick off? Time your trip right and you’ll hit the end of the Thanksgiving Sales/start of the Christmas sales! Some of the major department stores such as Macy’s and Bloomingdales offer amazing discounts. Or take a trip out to Woodbury Common for the outlet sales. You can pre-book transfer tickets before you travel to make life easier when you get there!
If you’re lucky enough to be in New York for New Year’s Eve, then Times Square is the place to be. Join in with the celebrations (although be warned it gets very crowded and busy) and watch the famous ball drop at midnight.
Places to Visit in December Round-Up
So, there you go, plenty of ideas of places to really get in the festive spirit. I absolutely love Christmas as you can probably tell. Christmas markets, snow, and getting all cosy are my thing for December, so this was an easy one for me to write. If cold, winter and Christmas really aren’t your thing, check out my winter sun ideas instead.
If you like the idea of a festive trip away, or a winter escape to get away from the craziness, bookmark this page. Then get in touch when you’re ready to start planning! You can contact me through my contact form here, my Facebook page here, or drop me an email here.
And if you’re looking for deals to any of these destinations, then I definitely recommend you join my Travel Deals Group on Facebook. You can find it here.
Finally, I just want to wish everybody a very lovely festive season. Whatever your plans, and however you choose to celebrate, I hope it’s everything you want it to be! Michelle x
