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Where to Go on Holiday in December

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By Siobhan Blest


With Christmas just around the corner, December is the perfect time to embrace the magic of the season and treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday.

Whether you are in search of Europe’s most charming Christmas market or looking to swap Christmas trees for palm trees, December invites you to discover the world in your own festive way.

From Christmassy city breaks to the sand dunes of the Middle East, here are some of our top destinations to end your year in style.

Vienna, Austria

December in Vienna is a magical experience. The city hosts some of Europe’s best Christmas Markets as well as impressive ice rinks and beautiful festive lights. Wrap up warm to explore Vienna’s historic centre, rich with grand architecture, baroque palaces and manicured gardens, made all the more magical with sparkling lights.


Between sightseeing you can unwind in Vienna’s cosy coffee houses with traditional Viennese sweet treats, or head to a choice of fascinating museums to soak up some culture. Throughout December, the world-famous Vienna State Opera offers a variety of performances, including both operas and ballets, to mark the season and finish off your perfect festive city break.


For more inspiration, take a look at our Austrian Advent in Vienna or other Austria holidays.


Vienna, Austria - 11.23.2019 : sunset over art christmas advent market in Vienna at the Karsplatz with many people - advent architecture austria baroque art building cathedral center christianity christkindlmarkt christmas christmas lightning christmas market church city city center column decoration dome europe evening famous festive garland historic holiday illuminated illumination karl church karlskirche karlsplatz landmark light market old people punch religion square stand tourism traditional travel urban vienna view weihnachtsmarkt wien winter xmas

Strasbourg, France

Discover the magical city of Strasbourg, nicknamed the ‘Capital of Christmas’, where picturesque medieval houses surround brightly lit Christmas markets and winding canals. Travel by Train through the French countryside on your way to the magical city of Strasbourg or hop on a short flight.


With the festive season in full swing, you can expect picture-perfect scenes waiting around every corner. Discover the oldest Christmas market in France, visit the impressive Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and meander the beautiful cobblestoned streets of La Petite France.


There’s no better time than December to visit the capital of Christmas!


For more inspiration, take a look at our other Festive City Breaks & Short Breaks.


Buildings near Strasbourg Cathedral before Christmas, France

New South Wales, Australia

December in New South Wales brings long sunny days and warm evenings, perfect for exploring the state's iconic sights. Soak up the sun and learn to surf on world-famous beaches or head inland for hiking and biking in the mountains. Wildlife lovers can come face to face with native Australian wildlife at Taronga Zoo, or with a bit of luck even spot Koalas and Kangaroos in the wild. There is no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting to be enjoyed!


Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere will offer you a unique twist, swapping your traditional turkey dinner for a BBQ on the beach! With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and warm summer atmosphere, New South Wales is the perfect place to enjoy the holiday season.


For more inspiration, take a look at our New South Wales holidays.


Australia - New South Wales Tourism Board Generics

New York, USA

December in New York is a festive dream. Christmas markets, ice rinks, twinkling lights and seasonal events fill the city. While it's a cold and potentially snowy time of year, the city comes alive with Christmas spirit. Walk through a snow dusted Central Park and ice skate under the Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree. You can also head to Fifth Ave to enjoy sparkling window displays and fit in your last minute Christmas shopping.


As night falls, treat yourself to a Broadway show or indulge in a cosy dinner at one of the city's top restaurants. Whatever your plans, December in New York will not disappoint!


For more inspiration, take a look at our Festive New York City Break or other New York holidays.


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Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

If you're chasing winter sun and adventure, Abu Dhabi in December is the perfect escape. With consistent sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the year you can leave your winter wardrobe behind. You’ll find no shortage of exciting activities to keep you occupied, from visiting Abu Dhabi’s impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, to heading deep into the desert, racing across sand dunes or visiting Yas Waterworld for a great family day out.


If you are in need of some relaxation head to Saadiyat Island, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and range of luxurious hotels. Saadiyat Island is also home to the architecturally striking Louvre Abu Dhabi, which houses an impressive collection of art and features a dedicated Children's Museum offering interactive exhibits and activities for young visitors.


For more inspiration, take a look at our Abu Dhabi holidays.


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Antarctica

A bucket list trip for many travellers, Antarctica cruises allow visitors to follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers and discover an awe-inspiring polar wilderness.


December in Antarctica is widely considered to be the best time to visit for wildlife encounters, as penguin chicks begin to hatch and migrating whales become increasingly active in the icy water. It is also an excellent time to appreciate the regions vast landscapes and striking beauty, which are still dusted with fresh white snow. December’s long daylight hours and mild temperatures allow for extended Zodiac cruising and the chance to get up close to radiant glaciers. Make sure to book early as limited spaces fill quickly!


For more inspiration, take a look at our Antarctica Cruise pages.


Arctic Iceberg, Antarctica

For information on all the destinations we offer worldwide, take a look at our holidays pages.

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Written by Siobhan Blest

Siobhan is our Web Content Supervisor based in our Kensington head office.

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