Where to go in December

December is summer in the southern hemisphere and dry season in much of the tropics, perfect for warm escapes, while Christmas markets light up cities in the north.

Places are ranked by their typical weather in December (comfortable daily highs and little rain) and by traveler ratings. Public holidays are listed with each place, as museums, shops and offices may be closed and popular places can be busy on them. Climate data from Meteostat.

5 places have good weather in December in Europe, showing the top 5.

Taxiarchos228, FAL, via Wikimedia Commons

Santorini

4.58

Island VolcanicScenic ViewsCultural Heritage

Volcanic island with white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets.

View Details 2 public holidays

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18 °C35 mm Best: Apr–Jan

JCVK , CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cabo de Gata

4.22

Natural Wonder Natural ParkUNESCO Biosphere ReserveAndalusian Culture

Volcanic coastline and desert landscapes offering a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

View Details 4 public holidays

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18 °C42 mm Best: Sep–May

Bärbel Miemietz , CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Berat

3.97

City UNESCO HeritageHistoricOttoman ArchitectureCultural Festivals

Historic Ottoman town renowned for its panoramic vistas and windows, preserving centuries of cultural and architectural heritage.

View Details 2 public holidays

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16 °C28 mm Best: Apr–May, Sep

Ggia , CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Spinalonga

4.28

Island HistoricalIslandVenezian FortressLeper Colony

Former Venetian fortress and leper colony, now an uninhabited island revealing layers of rich history.

View Details 2 public holidays

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17 °C61 mm Best: Jan, Mar–Nov

Abrget47j, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Valldemossa

3.55

Landmark HistoricalCulturalScenic

Stunning mountain village in Mallorca with Chopin history and monastery.

View Details 4 public holidays

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16 °C38 mm Best: Jan–Feb, Apr–May, Jul, Sep–Nov