14 Best Countries to Visit in December from India: Everything You Need to Know

December stands as one of the most magical months for international travel. Whether you’re seeking snowy landscapes with Christmas markets, tropical beaches with warm sunshine, or cultural festivals celebrating the year’s end, the best countries to visit in December from India offer diverse experiences for every type of traveller. This comprehensive guide breaks down top December travel destinations by category, helping you choose the perfect getaway based on your budget, weather preferences, and travel style. From snowy winter destinations in Europe to warm places to visit in December across Asia and the Middle East, these December travel packages will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Key Takeaways

• December offers dual seasons: While the Northern Hemisphere experiences winter with snow and festive markets, the Southern Hemisphere enjoys summer beach weather
• Budget varies dramatically: December travel destinations range from budget-friendly Southeast Asia (starting ₹20,000) to premium experiences in the Maldives (₹3,50,000+)
• Book 8-12 weeks ahead: December is peak travel season globally; early booking saves 30-50% on flights and accommodations
• Weather dictates activities: Choose winter sports destinations (Europe, Canada, Japan) or warm beach escapes ( Maldives, Australia) based on your preferred climate
• Visa planning is critical: Many December travel destinations require advance visa applications, so start the process 2-3 months before departure

How to Choose Your December Destination

Before diving into specific countries, consider these factors to narrow down the best December vacation spots for your needs:

• Climate Preference: December splits the world into two distinct experiences. Northern Hemisphere destinations offer winter activities, festive markets, and snow sports, while Southern Hemisphere countries provide beach weather and outdoor summer activities.
• Budget Considerations: December international travel costs vary widely. Southeast Asian destinations like Malaysia start around ₹20,000 for 3-4 nights, while luxury destinations like Switzerland and the Maldives can exceed ₹3,00,000 per person.
• Travel Style: Family travellers should prioritise destinations with diverse activities and easy logistics. Couples might prefer romantic winter settings or secluded beach resorts. Solo travellers often gravitate toward culturally rich destinations with strong tourism infrastructure.
• Visa Requirements: Some countries offer visa-on-arrival or e-visas for Indian travellers, while others require advance applications. Factor in processing times of 2-4 weeks for countries like the USA, UK, and European nations.

Europe 

Perfect for travellers seeking snow, Christmas markets, and cultural winter experiences.

Germany 

Germany transforms into a fairytale during December, with over 2,500 Christmas markets lighting up cities across the country. The markets in Nuremberg, Munich, and Berlin rank among Europe’s most authentic, featuring traditional wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, mulled wine (glühwein), and regional delicacies. Germany is considered to one of the best places to visit in December outside India to experience the European Christmas!

• Weather: -1°C to 5°C
• Highlights: Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, Cologne Cathedral Market, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Budget: ₹1,80,000+

Also Read: Germany Travel Guide

Switzerland 

Switzerland delivers postcard-perfect winter landscapes in December, with snow-covered Alps, charming villages, and world-class ski resorts. The country’s efficient rail system makes it easy to explore multiple regions, from Zurich’s urban sophistication to Zermatt’s mountain majesty. Ski season in Switzerland begins in earnest during December, with fresh powder and fewer crowds than peak January-February. 

• Weather: -5°C to 7°C
• Highlights: Zermatt (Matterhorn), Lucerne Christmas Market, Jungfraujoch
• Budget: ₹2,50,000+

Also Read: Places to Visit Switzerland

France 

France combines holiday magic with world-class culture in December. Paris illuminates the Champs-Élysées with thousands of lights, while provincial cities host charming Christmas markets. The French Alps offer some of Europe’s best skiing, and wine regions provide cosy tasting experiences.

• Weather: 3°C to 13°C
• Highlights: Paris (Champs-Élysées lights), Strasbourg Christmas Market, French Alps skiing
• Budget: ₹2,00,000+

Also Read: France Travel Guide

Greece 

Greece in December offers a completely different experience from the packed summer season. While island beach resorts close, mainland destinations and Athens remain accessible with drastically reduced crowds and lower prices.

• Weather: 10°C to 15°C
• Highlights: Athens Acropolis, Thessaloniki, Crete
• Budget: ₹2,50,000+

Asia Gems

Ideal for combining heritage, festivals, and mild to cool winter conditions.

Japan

Japan offers a unique blend of winter beauty and cultural richness in December. While Tokyo and Kyoto experience cool but manageable temperatures, northern regions like Hokkaido receive heavy snowfall, creating ideal conditions for winter sports and outdoor hot spring bathing (onsen).

• Weather: 0°C to 12°C
• Highlights: Tokyo Disneyland (Christmas), Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion, Hokkaido ski resorts
• Budget: ₹2,50,000+

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Japan

Thailand

Thailand ranks among the most popular warm countries to visit in December, offering pristine beaches, rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional value for money. The dry season brings perfect weather, making December ideal for island hopping, temple visits, and outdoor adventures.

• Weather: 25°C to 32°C
• Highlights: Phi Phi Islands, Chiang Mai night markets, temples, and elephant sanctuaries and Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River temples, street food, and cultural experiences
• Budget: ₹1,00,000+

Also Read: Places to Visit in Thailand

Maldives

The Maldives defines tropical luxury with overwater bungalows, pristine coral reefs, and water so clear it seems unreal. December falls during the dry season, offering optimal conditions for snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation. It is the most chosen international honeymoon destination from India.

• Weather: 27°C to 31°C
• Highlights: Male, Maafushi Island, Ari Atoll
• Budget: ₹2,00,000+

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Maldives

Bhutan 

Bhutan emerges as one of the most underrated countries to travel in December. It offers a unique travel experience focused on cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. The kingdom limits tourist numbers through daily tariffs, ensuring less crowded sites and authentic cultural interactions. Clear winter skies provide spectacular Himalayan views. Fewer tourists visit during colder months, offering more intimate temple experiences. Winter festivals in various dzongs showcase traditional dance and music.

• Weather: 0°C to 13°C
• Highlights: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Valley, Thimphu markets
• Budget: ₹40,000–90,000

Also Read: Bhutan Travel Guide

Malaysia

Malaysia can be considered to be one of the best countries to visit in December. This beautiful country packs remarkable diversity into an affordable package: modern Kuala Lumpur, UNESCO-listed Georgetown, pristine Langkawi beaches, and Borneo’s wildlife. December marks the start of Malaysia’s dry season, bringing excellent weather to most regions.

• Weather: 23°C to 32°C
• Highlights: Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi
• Budget: ₹50,000+

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an ideal Asian country to visit in December. It combines ancient temples, colonial architecture, tea plantations, and pristine beaches in a compact island nation. December’s dry weather makes it one of the best December vacation spots for diverse experiences without extensive travel between regions.

• Weather: 16°C to 31°C
• Highlights: Galle Fort, Sigiriya, Yala National Park
• Budget: ₹60,000+

Middle East

Ideal for travellers who want luxury shopping, cultural landmarks, and pleasant winter weather.

Dubai, UAE

Dubai is among the most popular places to visit in December, offering a mix of futuristic attractions and cultural experiences. With perfect beach weather, travellers can explore luxury malls, desert safaris, and festive New Year’s Eve fireworks.

• Weather: 16°C to 26°C
• Highlights: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, desert safaris, Global Village
• Budget: ₹1,50,000+

Also Read: Places to Visit in Dubai

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi blends cultural depth with modern luxury. December is an excellent time to visit as the weather is mild, making outdoor sightseeing comfortable.

• Weather: 15°C to 25°C
• Highlights: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, Yas Island beaches
• Budget: ₹1,60,000+

Africa 

Perfect for history lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mauritius

Mauritius delivers a perfect blend of beach relaxation, water sports, and multicultural experiences. The island’s French-influenced cuisine, stunning lagoons, and luxury resorts make it ideal for both romantic getaways and best country to visit in december with family.

• Weather: 24°C to 30°C
• Highlights: Flic en Flac Beach, Port Louis, Chamarel
• Budget: ₹2,50,000+

Oceania 

Ideal for sun, surf, and outdoor summer adventures in December.

Australia

If you are wondering, where to go December 2025, then Australia is your answer. Australia celebrates summer in December, offering beach culture, outdoor adventures, and unique wildlife experiences. With Christmas falling during summer vacation, Australians embrace beach barbecues and outdoor festivities, creating a distinctly different holiday atmosphere.

• Weather: 14°C to 31°C
• Highlights: Sydney beaches, Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road
• Budget: ₹3,00,000+

Quick Comparison: Best Countries to Visit in December

Destination	Flight Duration (from Delhi/Mumbai)	Budget Range (per person, 6–7 days)	Budget Breakdown	Visa Requirements
Germany	8–9 hrs (non-stop)	₹1.8L+	Flights ₹65K–80K  Stay ₹70K–90K  Activities ₹40K–60K	Schengen visa
Switzerland	8 hrs (non-stop)	₹2.5L+	Flights ₹70K–85K  Stay ₹85K–1L Activities ₹50K–70K	Schengen visa
France	9 hrs (non-stop)	₹2L+	Flights ₹60K–80K  Stay ₹80K–90K Activities ₹40K–60K	Schengen visa
Greece	9–10 hrs (one-stop)	₹2.5L+	Flights ₹60K–75K Stay ₹85K–1L  Activities ₹50K–65K	Schengen visa
Japan	7 hrs (non-stop)	₹2.5L+	Flights ₹55K–70K  Stay ₹90K–1L  Activities ₹60K–70K	Visa required
Thailand	4.5 hrs (non-stop)	₹1L–1.2L	Flights ₹20K–30K  Stay ₹35K–45KActivities ₹30K–40K	Visa on arrival
Maldives	4 hrs (non-stop)	₹2L–3.5L	Flights ₹25K–35K  Stay ₹1.3L–2.5L Activities ₹50K–80K	Free visa
Bhutan	2 hrs (Delhi–Paro)	₹40K–90K	Flights ₹8K–15K Stay ₹15K–25K  Activities ₹15K–25K	Via tour operator
Malaysia	5 hrs (non-stop)	₹50K–80K	Flights ₹20K–25K  Stay ₹15K–25K  Activities ₹15K–20K	eVisa
Sri Lanka	3.5 hrs (non-stop)	₹60K–90K	Flights ₹12K–18K  Stay ₹20K–25K  Activities ₹20K–30K	ETA online
Dubai (UAE)	3.5 hrs (non-stop)	₹1.5L+	Flights ₹20K–25K  Stay ₹50K–70K  Activities ₹60K–80K	E-visa
Abu Dhabi (UAE)	3.5 hrs (non-stop)	₹1.6L+	Flights ₹20K–25K  Stay ₹55K–75K  Activities ₹60K–80K	E-visa
Mauritius	7 hrs (non-stop)	₹2.5L+	Flights ₹45K–55K  Stay ₹90K–1L  Activities ₹60K–80K	Visa on arrival
Australia	12–14 hrs (one-stop)	₹3L+	Flights ₹85K–1L Stay ₹1L–1.2L  Activities ₹80K–1L	e-Visitor visa

Money-Saving Strategies for December Travel

• Use Shoulder Days: Flying mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday) typically costs 15-25% less than weekend departures. December 1-10 offers better value than December 20-30.
• Eat Like Locals: Restaurant meals near major tourist attractions cost 2-3x local prices. Walk 2-3 blocks away from main sites for authentic food at better prices.
• Free Attractions: Many world-class museums and sites offer free admission on certain days or times. Research ahead to maximise free cultural experiences.
• Travel Insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. December weather can disrupt plans, making insurance valuable.
• Flexibility Saves Money: If your dates are flexible, departing December 1-15 offers better pricing than the week before Christmas. Returning early January instead of late December can save significantly on flights.

Bottom Line: Find Your Ideal December Escape

Whether you crave snowy Christmas markets in Europe, tropical beaches in Asia, or cultural wonders in the Middle East, December offers something for every traveler. With the right international holiday packages, you can enjoy the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and celebration, all tailored to your budget and travel style.

FAQs About Best Countries to Visit in December

1. Which are the best winter destinations in December?
Top winter destinations in December include Switzerland, Germany, France, and Japan for snow, skiing, and Christmas markets.

2. What are the best warm places to visit in December?
Popular warm places to visit in December are Thailand, Maldives, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sri Lanka—ideal for beaches and outdoor activities.

3. What are the most affordable December travel packages from India?
December travel packages to Malaysia, Thailand, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka start as low as ₹20,000–₹60,000 per person.

4. Is December a good month for international travel?
Yes, December is peak season for both winter destinations (Europe, Canada, Japan) and tropical escapes (Thailand, Maldives, Mauritius). Advance booking is highly recommended.

5. Which places to visit in December are best for families?
Family-friendly places to visit in December include Paris for Christmas lights, Dubai for theme parks, and Australia for summer beach fun.