Best Places to Visit in December | Worldwide Guide with Orlando and Florida Travel Tips
Best Places to Visit in December
A worldwide guide to winter magic, sunny escapes, and a full December travel breakdown for Orlando and Florida.
December is a turning point in the year. Work slows down a little, cities light up, schools take a break, and suddenly travel is not just a nice idea but a real plan. You might want snow and Christmas markets, or you might want sunshine and sandals. Either way, December is one of the most interesting months to be on the move.
This guide walks through some of the best places to visit in December across the world, then zooms in on Orlando and Florida with practical details for families, couples, and first time visitors. The goal is simple. Help you pick a destination that actually fits your budget, your travel style, and your tolerance for weather and crowds.
The first half covers worldwide December ideas, grouped by travel style. The second half focuses on Orlando, then on Florida as a whole, with suggested itineraries, budget guidance, and local tips. You can read it from start to finish, or skip to the sections that match what you want from your December trip.
Why December is a special month for travel
Travel in December feels different from travel at other times of the year. It is not just about the weather. It is also about mood. Streets are dressed up, there are seasonal events everywhere, and people are generally in a more relaxed headspace. That gives your trip a tone you will not get in October or March.
At the same time, December can be crowded and expensive in certain places, so picking the right type of destination helps you make the most of your time and money. Some cities are perfect in the first half of the month, quieter and a little cheaper, while others really shine in the week between Christmas and New Year.
Pros of traveling in December
- Festive lights, markets, and events in many cities.
- Winter sports seasons in full swing in ski areas.
- Summer conditions in the southern hemisphere.
- Warm escape options if you live in a cold country.
- School holidays that support longer family trips.
Things to watch out for
- Higher prices in classic holiday spots and ski resorts.
- Fully booked hotels near big theme parks and city centers.
- Colder and shorter days in northern Europe and North America.
- Flight disruption risks due to winter weather in some places.
- Closed businesses in quieter towns after Christmas.
Decide first whether you want winter or summer conditions. That one choice rules out half the world and immediately narrows down your search to something manageable. Then pick either a city break, a nature trip, or a mix of both.
Warm weather December escapes
If you live somewhere cold, you might be dreaming about sandals and short sleeves instead of snow boots. December is a great month for that, because many tropical and subtropical places are cooler and less humid than in their peak hot season.
Orlando and Florida in general
Orlando and Florida as a whole get their own dedicated sections later in this guide, but it is worth saying right away that central and southern Florida sit in a sweet spot for December trips. Temperatures are pleasant rather than scorching, humidity is lower than in summer, and there is an almost endless list of things to do, from theme parks to beaches and nature reserves.
Dubai and the Arabian Gulf
Dubai in December feels comfortable in a way it never does in the hot months. You can spend long days outside without feeling drained. Mornings and evenings are especially pleasant. Visitors combine city attractions, desert trips, and lazy hours by the pool.
- Average daytime temperatures often sit in the mid twenties Celsius range.
- Outdoor dining and rooftop evenings are comfortable instead of overwhelming.
- You can add desert safaris, dune buggies, and visits to neighboring emirates.
Bali and Southeast Asia
In December, parts of Southeast Asia enter a wetter period, but that does not always mean constant rain. Often showers come in short bursts, the air cools down, and the landscape stays green and lush. Bali is a good example. It can be a little rainy at times, yet it stays warm, relaxed, and very attractive if you want a slower pace.
In Thailand, islands like Phuket and Krabi are in their busy season, with blue water, boat trips, and plenty of nightlife. These spots work well for couples who want a mix of beaches and activity, or for groups who prefer something social and energetic.
Cape Town and Southern Africa
December is early summer in Cape Town, which gives you long days, warm weather, and a nice mix of city life and nature. Here you are not only going for beaches. You also have mountains, coastal drives, wine country, and wildlife within a reasonable distance.
- Table Mountain for hiking or cable car views.
- Camps Bay and Clifton for beaches and sunsets.
- Cape Winelands for tastings and long lunches.
- Day trips along the peninsula for dramatic scenery.
The Caribbean and Mexico
The Caribbean and the Riviera Maya in Mexico are classic December moves. Think warm water, all inclusive hotels if you want that kind of trip, and plenty of options for diving, snorkeling, and cultural visits. This works well for families who want an easy setup, and for couples who want to slow down without planning every hour.
Winter wonderlands and Christmas markets
If you want December to look and feel like the classic idea of winter, with snow under your boots and lights in old town squares, then northern and central Europe are tough to beat. You can hop between cities by train, visit Christmas markets, and head up to the mountains if you want snow sports.
Switzerland
Switzerland in December feels almost unreal. Lakeside towns like Lucerne and Montreux glow at night, alpine villages like Zermatt and Grindelwald sit under snowy peaks, and mountain trains take you up to viewpoints that would be hard to reach any other way.
You can ski if you want an active holiday, or you can keep things simple with walks in the snow, hot chocolate in cafes, and evenings in comfortable hotels. This is not the cheapest option, but it delivers a strong winter feeling.
Austria and Germany
Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, and smaller towns around them are famous for Christmas markets and winter decorations. You get wooden stalls, local crafts, seasonal food, and choirs singing in church squares. It can be cold, but that adds to the atmosphere if you are dressed properly.
- Short trips between cities by train.
- Plenty of museums and indoor attractions for very cold days.
- Easy to combine with nearby countries such as Czech Republic or Hungary.
Prague
Prague deserves its own mention. The city center has narrow streets, bridges, towers, and a large square that looks even better with lights and a tree in the middle. Prices are often lower than in many western capitals, and walking is one of the best ways to explore the city, even when it is cold.
Big cities that feel alive in December
Some cities really wake up in December. They put on light displays, markets, special shows, and extra events. If you like cities more than beaches or mountains, then these can be perfect for a short or medium length trip.
New York City
New York in December feels familiar even if you have never been there before, simply because you have seen it in so many films and shows. Think ice skating rinks, decorated shop windows, and a huge tree in front of Rockefeller Center. It can be very cold, but there is always somewhere warm to step into.
- Central Park walks with winter scenes all around you.
- Broadway shows for evenings.
- Fifth Avenue and SoHo for shopping.
- Brooklyn neighborhoods like Dyker Heights for house light displays.
London
London in December is busy but charming. Streets like Regent Street and Oxford Street have impressive lights, Hyde Park hosts a winter themed event, and pubs feel extra cozy when it is cold outside. You can combine free museums, paid attractions, and day trips to nearby towns.
Tokyo
Tokyo approaches December in its own way. It is not a traditional Christmas city, but it does go all in on winter light trails and displays. Entire districts and shopping streets are decorated. You can walk through these areas in the evening, eat hot noodles or grilled skewers, and mix modern city life with short temple visits.
Orlando in December
Now we come to one of the most popular December destinations in the world. Orlando sits in central Florida and is built around theme parks, family attractions, and resorts. At first glance that sounds intense, but December changes the experience in a good way. The weather is much kinder than in summer, and the holiday decorations turn the parks into something far more interesting than just rides and queues.
- Comfortable temperature for walking around all day.
- Festive events, parades, and special night shows in the parks.
- Pool weather on many days without the heavy humidity of summer.
- Plenty of indoor attractions for rare rainy spells.
Typical weather in Orlando in December
December in Orlando usually brings mild to warm days and cooler evenings. You often get bright, clear days that feel perfect for walking through a park or an outdoor mall. Evenings can drop enough that you will want a light jacket or a hoodie, especially for late night shows and fireworks.
The humidity is generally lower than in the wet summer months, which makes a big difference when you are standing in lines for rides or walking long distances. You are less likely to feel drained by the heat, and you can stay outside for longer periods without needing constant breaks.
Theme parks in December
The big parks around Orlando treat December as a major season. Decorations go up, shows change, and you see a lot of one time only parades and night time spectaculars. Even if you have visited in another season, December can feel fresh and different.
- Parks run Christmas themed parades and firework shows.
- There are special snacks, seasonal merchandise, and photo spots.
- Some evenings have separate ticket events with limited capacity.
If you can travel in the first half of December, you often find slightly lighter crowds and better availability for park reservations and dining, yet you still enjoy full seasonal decorations and most events.
Sample Orlando December itinerary for families
Here is a simple structure for a seven night trip to Orlando with children. You can adjust the mix depending on the ages in your group and how intense you want the schedule to be.
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive and check in | Relax by the pool | Early dinner and early night |
| Day 2 | Main theme park visit | Continue rides and shows | Night parade or fireworks |
| Day 3 | Outlet shopping or smaller park | Break at hotel | Visit an outdoor mall or dining area |
| Day 4 | Second theme park | Character meet experiences | Nighttime show |
| Day 5 | Rest morning at pool | Mini golf or local attraction | Casual dinner nearby |
| Day 6 | Third park or repeat favorite | Rides you missed earlier | Special event if available |
| Day 7 | Late breakfast | Last shopping or pool time | Pack up and rest for flight |
Orlando for couples in December
Orlando is not only for families. Couples can enjoy lounges, nice dinners, late night shows, and slower mornings at resort pools. If you are not tied to school holidays, look at early December for a calmer atmosphere.
- Spend one or two full days in parks, then shift to food, shopping, and spa time.
- Plan at least one special night with a top rated restaurant and a firework view.
- Add a day trip to a nearby beach or nature reserve for variety.
Where to stay in Orlando in December
You have three main options. Stay inside a major park complex, stay at a hotel very close to the parks, or stay in a villa or apartment a little further away. Each option has its own strengths.
On site hotels
- Easy transport to parks.
- Theming and holiday decorations are strong.
- Often early entry or other benefits for guests.
Off site hotels and villas
- Often better value for larger families and groups.
- More space, private pools, and kitchen facilities.
- Flexibility to explore non park attractions.
Getting around Orlando in December
Rideshare, shuttle services, and private car services all work well in Orlando. If you want a smoother experience from airport arrival to hotel and parks, a prebooked transfer or private car service can take a lot of stress out of the trip, especially with children or extra luggage.
For example, you can book a private transfer for airport pickup and drop off, and also for point to point rides between your hotel and the parks. This saves time on parking and navigation and lets everyone in the group relax instead of watching the road.
Tip. Search for reputable Orlando car service providers in advance and compare reviews, pricing, and vehicle options, especially if you are traveling with family or in a larger group that needs extra space.
Florida in December beyond Orlando
You can visit Orlando on its own and be very happy, but if you have extra days there is a strong argument for seeing more of Florida in December. The mix of theme parks, beaches, art districts, Latin influenced neighborhoods, and nature preserves gives you a very balanced holiday.
Miami
Miami in December feels energetic and warm. South Beach has its familiar mix of sand, Art Deco buildings, and nightlife, while other parts of the city lean more local. Wynwood has large murals and galleries, Brickell feels modern and vertical, and the Design District is full of high end stores and clean lines.
- Walk Ocean Drive and the beach boardwalk.
- Visit Wynwood Walls and surrounding streets.
- Take a boat tour in Biscayne Bay.
- Try Cuban food in Little Havana.
The Florida Keys
The Keys stretch from the mainland all the way down to Key West, linked by a road that crosses a series of islands and bridges. December brings warm breezes and clear water. You can snorkel, kayak, or simply sit and watch the sunset each evening.
Key Largo and Marathon offer a quieter pace, while Key West is more lively, with bars, live music, and a famous nightly sunset gathering in the main square. This part of Florida suits couples and relaxed groups who are happy with a slower rhythm.
Gulf Coast beaches
The Gulf Coast has soft sand and calmer water in many areas. Places like Clearwater, St Pete Beach, Naples, and Sarasota work well in December if you want a simple beach holiday with a softer atmosphere than the big city feel of Miami.
Sample Florida December road trip
If you want to combine several parts of Florida in one December trip, here is one way to structure a ten night visit that includes Orlando and a mix of other stops.
| Day | Base | Main focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Orlando | Arrival and light exploration |
| 2 | Orlando | Theme park day |
| 3 | Orlando | Second park or local attractions |
| 4 | Orlando to Tampa or Clearwater | Drive to Gulf Coast and beach time |
| 5 | Gulf Coast | Relaxed beach day and seafood dinner |
| 6 | Miami | Drive across the state and evening in the city |
| 7 | Miami | City sightseeing and bay cruise |
| 8 | Florida Keys | Drive down and sunset in Key West |
| 9 | Florida Keys | Water activities and relaxed day |
| 10 | Return to Miami or Orlando | Last day, final meal, and flight |
You can reverse the order or focus only on two bases if you prefer shorter drives. The key point is that December conditions allow you to enjoy all these places without the extreme heat that can sometimes make summer road trips in Florida tiring.
Budget breakdown for December trips
Costs vary a lot between destinations, but there are some patterns that hold across most of the world in December. Classic holiday hotspots and ski resorts are expensive. Off season cities and less famous beach areas can be much more affordable. Picking wisely can help you enjoy a longer or more comfortable trip with the same budget.
| Destination type | Typical cost level | What drives the price up |
|---|---|---|
| Major theme park destinations | Moderate to high | Park tickets, on site hotels, peak dates |
| Ski resorts | High | Lift passes, gear, food on the mountain |
| European capitals | Moderate | Central hotels near markets and shopping |
| Tropical beaches | Moderate | All inclusive packages and festive week stays |
| Second tier cities | Low to moderate | New Year events and specific festivals only |
To keep things under control, lock in flights and core accommodation early, especially for the days just before and just after Christmas. If your dates are flexible, arriving in the first half of the month can save money and still give you plenty of festive atmosphere.
How to choose your December destination
With so many options, it is easy to feel lost. The trick is to filter by a few key questions rather than scrolling through endless lists of top ten destinations. Try this simple decision process.
- Choose winter or summer conditions.
- Pick your main travel style. City, beach, nature, or mixed.
- Decide how far you are willing to fly.
- Set a clear budget range for flights, hotels, and daily spending.
- Check if you want to avoid very busy periods such as Christmas week.
Once you have those answers, the world suddenly narrows to a small group of destinations that make real sense for you. From there it becomes a much simpler comparison between three or four places instead of dozens.
- Family that wants warm weather and activities. Orlando plus a Florida beach stop.
- Couple that wants snow and markets. Prague plus Vienna or Munich.
- Friends who want nightlife and sun. Miami or Cancun in December.
- Slow travelers who like scenery and food. Switzerland and northern Italy.
Practical tips for December travel
Packing for mixed weather
December can be tricky because your starting point and destination may have very different climates. You might leave a snowy city to land in a warm place, or the other way around. The answer is layering. Aim for clothes that you can combine to adapt quickly.
- Light base layers for flights and long travel days.
- A warm but packable jacket if you will face cold evenings.
- Comfortable shoes for long walks in parks and cities.
- Swimwear and flip flops if you are heading to Florida or the tropics.
Booking timing
Flights and hotels for the final week of December often rise in price several months in advance. If you know you want those specific dates, book early. For the first half of the month you sometimes have more flexibility, but it still pays to watch prices and set alerts.
Moving around once you arrive
In big December destinations like Orlando, New York, London, or Dubai, you have plenty of transport choices. Public transport works well in many cities, but shared services and private car services can be a smart choice for airport transfers, late night moves, or travel with children and luggage.
Make your December trip work for you
December will always be a busy month for travel, but busy does not have to mean stressful. If you pick a destination that matches your weather preferences and budget, plan a realistic itinerary, and prebook key pieces like park tickets and airport transfers, the whole experience feels smoother and more enjoyable.
Whether you choose a classic Orlando theme park holiday, a Florida road trip with beaches and cities, a European winter market loop, or a sunny escape in the southern hemisphere, focus on the simple idea that matters most. Come home feeling better than when you left.
Quick FAQ on December travel
Is December too busy to travel comfortably
Not necessarily. Some places are intense over the Christmas and New Year period, but others stay calm, especially in the first half of the month. If you want a quieter experience, avoid school holiday weeks and choose less obvious destinations or neighborhoods.
Is Orlando worth visiting in December if I have no kids
Yes. Couples and adult groups can enjoy the parks in a different way, with more focus on dining, lounges, and evening shows. You can also mix park days with shopping, spa time, and day trips to nearby beaches, which gives the trip a more balanced feel.
What is the best budget friendly December destination
It depends on your home airport, but second tier cities and less known regions usually offer better value than famous hotspots. In Europe that might mean cities like Valencia or Budapest rather than the most expensive capitals. In the United States that could mean smaller cities in the south rather than the biggest names.
How far in advance should I book for December
For the last week of December, think several months ahead, especially for flights and central hotels. For early December, booking one to three months in advance is often enough, although the more popular a destination is, the earlier it makes sense to lock in your plans.
Should I rent a car for Florida in December
If you plan to stay only in Orlando and use park transport plus occasional rideshares, you may not need a car. If you want to combine Orlando with beaches, the Keys, and several cities, renting a car or booking planned transfers between destinations will give you much more flexibility and save time.
Comments
Post a Comment