Why December Is the Perfect Month to Travel
December is one of the most enchanting times to explore the world. Snow blankets Europe, beaches glow under tropical sunshine, and festive lights brighten cities everywhere. Whether you want to experience a white Christmas, celebrate the New Year on an island, or dive into cultural festivals, December offers endless possibilities.
This guide from Saiman Holidays highlights the best countries to visit in December from India, grouped by region and travel style. From affordable Southeast Asian getaways to luxury winter escapes in Europe, here’s everything you need to know to plan a memorable year-end vacation.
Key Takeaways
- Dual Seasons Worldwide: December brings winter to the north (Europe, Japan, North America) and summer to the south (Australia, South Africa, Mauritius).
- Flexible Budgets: Trips range from Rs.20,000 for short Asian escapes to Rs.3.5 lakh+ for luxury destinations like Switzerland or the Maldives.
- Book Early: Reserve flights and hotels 8 - 12 weeks ahead prices soar by up to 50% closer to Christmas and New Year.
- Weather Experience: Choose between cold destinations for snow adventures or warm coastal retreats for sunshine.
- Visa Awareness: Apply 2 - 3 months in advance for visa-required countries (Europe, UK, Japan); many Asian and Middle Eastern destinations offer e-Visas or visas on arrival.
How to Choose the Right December Destination
Before you book, consider these four factors:
Climate:
- Winter Wonderland – Europe, Japan, Canada.
- Sunny Escapes – Thailand, Maldives, Australia, Oman.
Budget:
- Low-Cost Options: Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand (from Rs.20–70K).
- Mid-Range: Dubai, Greece, Japan (Rs.1–2.5 L).
- Luxury: Switzerland, Maldives, Australia (Rs.2.5–3.5 L+).
Travel Style:
- Family holidays: destinations with varied activities (Japan, Dubai).
- Honeymooners: romantic spots (Maldives, Switzerland).
- Solo travellers: cultural and safe hubs (Thailand, France).
Visa Requirements:
- Visa-Free: Maldives, Bhutan.
- Visa-on-Arrival: Thailand, Mauritius.
- E-Visa: UAE, Malaysia, Sri Lanka.
- Pre-Visa: Europe, Japan, Australia.
Europe: Winter Magic & Christmas Markets
Perfect for travellers seeking snow, Christmas markets, and cultural winter experiences.
1. Germany
Germany glows during December. More than 2,000 Christmas markets transform towns into storybook scenes filled with handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and festive carols.
Weather: -1°C to 5°C
Highlights: Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, Berlin lights, Munich’s Marienplatz
Budget: Rs.180,000 +
Perfect for: Christmas lovers & families
2. Switzerland
A postcard come to life - snow-capped Alps, cozy chalets, scenic train rides, and world-class ski resorts make Switzerland the dream winter destination.
Weather: -5°C to 7°C
Highlights: Zermatt & the Matterhorn, Lucerne Market, Jungfraujoch
Budget: Rs.2,50,000 +
Perfect for: Honeymooners & adventure travellers
3. France
France dazzles with festive lights, the Alps sparkle with fresh snow, and every region celebrates the holidays in style.
Weather: 3°C to 13°C
Highlights: Champs-Elysees lights, Strasbourg Market, French Alps ski resorts
Budget: Rs.2, 00,000
Perfect for: Culture & romance seekers
4. Greece
Forget the summer crowds - December in Greece means mild weather, fewer tourists, and rich history without the rush.
Weather: 10°C to 15°C
Highlights: Athens Acropolis, Santorini sunsets, Crete villages
Budget: Rs.2,5,000 +
Perfect for: Off-season explorers
Asia: Culture, Comfort & Warm Weather
Ideal for combining heritage, festivals, and mild to cool winter conditions.
5. Japan
Japan balances winter beauty with cultural charm. Northern areas like Hokkaido host ski adventures, while Kyoto and Tokyo sparkle with illumination festivals.
Weather: 0°C to 12°C
Highlights: Kyoto temples, Sapporo ski slopes, Tokyo Disney winter parade
Budget: Rs.2,5,000 +
Perfect for: Culture lovers & families
6. Thailand
Thailand shines in December warm weather, blue skies, and vibrant nightlife make it the top pick for Indian travellers.
Weather: 25°C to 32°C
Highlights: Phuket beaches, Chiang Mai markets, Bangkok’s river cruises
Budget: Rs.1,00,000
Perfect for: Budget travellers, honeymooners
7. Maldives
The Maldives is pure paradise - turquoise lagoons, overwater villas, and ideal sunshine all month long.
Weather: 27°C to 31°C
Highlights: Maafushi Island, underwater dining, luxury resorts
Budget: Rs.1, 00,000 +
Perfect for: Honeymoon & luxury getaways
8. Malaysia
Affordable yet diverse - Malaysia offers city life, beaches, and rainforests all within a short flight from India.
Weather: 23°C to 32°C
Highlights: Kuala Lumpur skyline, Penang street food, Langkawi beaches
Budget: Rs.50,000 +
Perfect for: Families & first-time travellers
9. Sri Lanka
A gem for Indian travellers - Sri Lanka blends temples, beaches, and tea estates in one compact island.
Weather: 16°C to 31 °C
Highlights: Galle Fort, Sigiriya Rock, Yala safaris
Budget: Rs.60,000 +
Perfect for: Short cultural trips
Middle East: Sunshine & Sophistication
Ideal for travellers who want luxury shopping, cultural landmarks, and pleasant winter weather.
10. Dubai, UAE
December is Dubai at its best - perfect weather, vibrant events, and iconic attractions make it irresistible.
Weather: 16°C to 26°C
Highlights: Burj Khalifa, Global Village, desert safaris, fireworks at Palm Jumeirah
Budget: Rs.1,50,000 +
Perfect for: Families & luxury travellers
Money-Saving Tips for December Travel
- Travel Early: Depart Between Dec 1 to10 for the lowest airfares.
- Mid-Week Flights: Tuesday - Thursday tickets are 15 - 25% cheaper than weekends.
- Eat Local: Skip tourist-area restaurants, local spots offer authentic meals at half the price.
- Use Free Attractions: Many museums and landmarks offer free entry on select days.
- Buy Insurance: Weather delays are common in winter - protect your trip.
- Flexible Return Dates: Returning after Jan 2 can reduce flight costs by up to 40%.
Find Your Perfect December Escape
Whether you crave snowy mountain adventures, beachside sunsets, or global festivals, December offers an unbeatable mix of experiences. With Saiman Holidays’ curated international tour packages, you can explore the world stress-free — from visa assistance to hotel bookings and guided excursions.
Plan Early. Travel Smart. Celebrate Globally.
Let Saiman Holidays craft your perfect December getaway today.
