Best Countries to Visit in December 2024

December is an exciting month to travel, whether you're seeking a winter wonderland, festive celebrations, or a tropical getaway. As the year wraps up, many countries offer unique experiences, from breathtaking landscapes to vibrant holiday events. Here’s a list of the 10 best countries to visit in December 2024, ensuring your travel plans are filled with unforgettable moments.

Switzerland, famed for its picturesque landscapes and world-class ski resorts, offers a quintessential winter experience in December. The snow-covered Alps and charming towns make it a top destination for those seeking a cozy winter getaway.

• Top Places and Attractions: Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, Jungfraujoch, Zurich Christmas Markets
   
• Activities or Adventures: Skiing in Zermatt, Snowboarding, Ice Skating, Winter Hiking.
   
• Weather in December: Cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
   
• Festivities: Christmas Markets, Fête de l'Escalade in Geneva
   
• Clothing: Pack heavy winter gear including thermal wear, waterproof jackets, insulated boots, gloves, and hats.
   
• Visa: Schengen visa is required. Apply for Schengen visa here
   
• Why visit: Switzerland’s snow-covered Alps make it one of the best countries to travel in December for winter sports, relaxation, and festive fun.

Australia is a great December getaway with its summer weather, sunny beaches, and outdoor adventures. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne offer lively festivals, while Christmas is celebrated with barbecues and beach parties. Perfect for those seeking warmth and sunshine.

• Top Places and Attractions: Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne’s Laneways
   
• Activities or Adventures: Surfing, Diving, Beach Relaxation, Exploring National Parks
   
• Weather in December: Warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
   
• Clothing: Bring summer attire such as shorts, t-shirts, swimwear, and a hat. Pack some sunscreens and always carry goggles. 
   
• Festivities: Christmas Day, Boxing Day Sales, Also the Fireworks on the new year eve. 
   
• Visa: Sticker visa is required. Apply for the visa here.
   
• Why visit: Australia is in full summer mode in December, offering a warm escape for those looking for sunshine and outdoor adventures.

• Japan is a fantastic December destination, offering a mix of modern and traditional charm. In Tokyo, enjoy dazzling Christmas lights, while Kyoto provides a peaceful escape with fewer tourists. It’s the perfect time to experience winter festivals, savour seasonal Japanese dishes, and relax in an onsen (hot spring).
   
• Top Places and Attractions: Tokyo, Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial
   
• Activities or Adventures: Onsen Hot Springs, Skiing in Hokkaido, Exploring Historical Temples
   
• Weather in December: Cool to cold, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F)
   
• Festivities: Christmas illuminations, New Year's Celebrations
   
• Clothing: Wear layers to adapt to varying temperatures, including warm jackets, sweaters, and comfortable walking shoes. Pack some skiing essentials like goggles, and ski gloves.
   
• Visa: E Visa is required. Apply for Japan Visa.
   
• Why visit: Japan is a perfect mix of ancient traditions and modern attractions, making it one of the best countries to visit in December for those who want a bit of everything.

Thailand is one of the perfect countries to visit in December, offering warm weather and vibrant festivals. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui, explore the cultural sites in Chiang Mai, and indulge in delicious street food. It's an ideal mix of sunshine, culture, and adventure.

• Top Places and Attractions: Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Krabi
   
• Activities or Adventures: Beach Relaxation, Temple Tours, Scuba Diving, Ziplining
   
• Weather in December: Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F)
   
• Festivities: Water Lantern Festival, Christmas Festivities
   
• Clothing: Light and breathable clothing, including shorts, t-shirts, and cap.
   
• Visa: No visa required till November 2024
   
• Why visit: Thailand offers cool, dry weather in December, making it the perfect time for a tropical getaway.

France is a magical December destination, with Paris sparkling with Christmas lights, festive markets, and cozy cafés. The French Alps offer world-class skiing, while regions like Provence provide a peaceful winter retreat. It’s the perfect blend of culture, charm, and winter adventure.

Top Places and Attractions: Paris, French Riviera, French Alps, Classical European Music in Nantes

• Activities or Adventures: Christmas Market Visits, Skiing in the French Alps, Taste the best Champagnes in the world.
   
• Weather in December: Cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 8°C (34°F to 46°F)
   
• Festivities: Christmas Lights in Paris, New Year’s Eve Celebrations
   
• Clothing: Warm clothing including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and boots.
   
• Visa: Schengen visa is required. Apply for the visa with us. 
   
• Why visit: France is filled with holiday magic, offering a mix of romance, history, and festive cheer, making it one of the best countries to visit in December.

The Czech Republic is a winter wonderland in December, with Prague’s charming Christmas markets, festive lights, and historic architecture. The fairy-tale atmosphere, combined with hearty Czech food and mulled wine, makes it a perfect destination for a cozy holiday getaway.

• Top Places and Attractions:: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Český Krumlov
   
• Activities or Adventures: Clementinum, Christmas Markets, Winter Hiking, Join a River Cruise
   
• Weather in December: Cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
   
• Festivities: Christmas Markets, New Year’s Eve Celebrations.
   
• Clothing: Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, thermal wear, scarves, gloves, and insulated boots.
   
• Visa: Schengen visa is required.
   
• Why visit:.The Czech Republic is one of the best countries to travel to in December, offering magical Christmas markets, festive lights, and charming winter scenery, especially in Prague's historic Old Town.

Canada transforms into a winter wonderland in December, making it an ideal destination for those who love winter sports and holiday festivities.

• Top Places and Attractions: Canada offers stunning winter landscapes, including Banff, Jasper, Toronto, Vancouver, and historic Quebec City.
   
• Activities or Adventures: Enjoy skiing in Whistler, ice skating on frozen lakes, dog sledding, and exploring festive Christmas markets in Montreal and Toronto.
   
• Weather in December: Canada experiences temperatures from -1°C to 8°C in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and -12°C to -5°C in places like Banff, with widespread snow.
   
• Festivities: Celebrate with Christmas markets, light displays, and events like the Toronto Christmas Market, Montreal Jazz Festival, and Winterlude in Ottawa.
   
• Clothing: Pack warm layers, heavy coats, thermal wear, gloves, hats, and waterproof boots for snowy regions and ski resorts.
   
• Visa: Visa Required. Apply for a Canada visa here. 
   
• Why visit: Canada is one of the best countries to visit in December 2024, offering stunning winter landscapes, world-class skiing, festive Christmas markets, and iconic snowy adventures, making it a top choice among the best countries to travel in December.

New Zealand offers a summer escape in December, with stunning landscapes from the beaches of Coromandel to the snow-capped peaks of Fiordland, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and natural beauty.

• Top Places and Attractions: Coromandel, Queenstown, Gisborne, Milford Track, Alpine Landscapes
   
• Activities or Adventures: Star Gazing, Rafting, Heli skiing, Bungee Jumping, Caving
   
• Weather in December: Warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
   
• Festivities: Queenstown Winter Festival, Christmas Celebrations, New Year’s Festivals
   
• Clothing: Light and breathable clothing for warm weather, including t-shirts, shorts, and a hat. Also carry a good quality rain jacket. 
   
• Visa: Visa is required. Apply for a New Zealand Visa online.
   
• Why visit: New Zealand’s summer season offers mild weather and endless adventure activities, making it an excellent destination for those seeking both scenic beauty and action-packed fun in December.

Italy’s December atmosphere is filled with holiday charm, stunning lights, and delicious food.

• Top Places and Attractions:: Colosseum, Tower of Pisa, Amalfi Coast, Tarot Garden
   
• Activities or Adventures: Exploring Historical Sites, Christmas Markets, Italian Cuisine
   
• Weather in December: Mild to cool, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F)
   
• Clothing: Pack warm clothing such as beanies, gloves, scarves, and comfortable walking shoes.
   
• Festivities: Christmas Markets, New Year’s Eve Celebrations.
   
• Visa: Schengen visa is required. Apply for Italy Visa online.
   
• Why visit: Italy’s rich cultural heritage, art, and holiday charm make it one of the best countries to travel to in December, offering a perfect mix of history, food, and festive joy.

Costa Rica is a haven for nature lovers, and December marks the start of the dry season, ideal for outdoor adventures.

• Top Places and Attractions: Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and iconic wildlife like sloths and toucans.
   
• Activities or Adventures: Explore zip-lining, wildlife tours, surfing, and hiking through volcanoes and national parks.
   
• Weather in December: Temperatures in December range from 23°C to 30°C, with dry, sunny weather in most regions.
   
• Festivities: Celebrate the holiday season with local festivals, parades, and traditional foods in vibrant towns like San José.
   
• Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for outdoor adventures.
   
• Visa: Visa Required for Indians. Apply for the visa with us. 
   
• Why visit: Costa Rica offers a perfect tropical climate in December, ideal for exploring nature and enjoying eco-tourism activities, making it one of the best countries to visit in December for outdoor adventures.

Conclusion:

December is an amazing month to travel, with a wide range of destinations offering unique experiences. Whether you want snow, sun, or a cultural adventure, the best countries to visit in December 2024 provide something for every type of traveller. From Switzerland’s winter wonderland to Thailand’s tropical bliss, each of these destinations promises unforgettable memories to end the year. So, whether you're looking for festive markets, winter sports, or tropical beaches, there’s no shortage of fantastic places to explore this December!

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