Top Places to Visit in December

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Where to Travel in December: The Ultimate Travel Guide

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As the holiday season approaches, December brings a world of unique travel possibilities, from cozy winter escapes to sun-soaked getaways.

Whether you’re seeking snow-covered landscapes, enchanting European Christmas markets, or warm places to visit in December, this month has a lot to offer across the globe. From the alpine luxury of St. Moritz to the vibrant summer atmosphere of Cape Town, we’ve curated a list of the best places to visit in December, along with our top recommendations for accommodation, to inspire your winter holiday destinations.

ST.MORITZ

Nestled in the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz is a world-renowned destination that has become synonymous with luxury winter travel. With its glamorous atmosphere, elite clientele, and breathtaking mountain scenery, St. Moritz offers visitors some of the finest skiing in Europe, along with upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and exclusive events like the annual Snow Polo World Cup. With more than 350 kilometers of ski slopes, it’s ideal for both winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a high-end winter retreat. St. Moritz also has a lively après-ski scene, luxury spas, and stunning panoramic views that make it one of the most attractive winter escapes for December.

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is an iconic luxury destination in St. Moritz, offering guests an immaculate experience of Alpine elegance and world-class service since 1896. With 157 beautifully curated rooms and suites, the hotel combines classic Swiss charm with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy an array of dining options, including La Coupole-Matsuhisa, where Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine is served in the stylish setting of a former tennis hall. Le Restaurant offers refined French cuisine in a grand dining room, and King’s Social House brings together fine dining and nightlife with a lively ambiance. The hotel also boasts an impressive wellness area with an infinity pool overlooking Lake St. Moritz, a luxurious spa, and direct ski-in, ski-out access. With its blend of historic charm and luxurious amenities, Badrutt’s Palace remains one of St. Moritz’s most celebrated winter retreats.

STRASBOURG & COLMAR

Strasbourg and Colmar, located in France's Alsace region, are two of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas season travel destinations. Known for their charming houses, cobbled streets, and mediaeval architecture, these towns transform into a holiday wonderland in December. Strasbourg, often called the "Capital of Christmas," hosts one of Europe’s oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets, filled with dazzling lights, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats like mulled wine and gingerbread. Colmar, equally magical, offers several smaller markets scattered throughout its picturesque town center. Together, Strasbourg and Colmar are among the best places to visit in December, for those who like the traditional and heartwarming European Christmas atmosphere.

For travellers looking for a luxurious stay in Strasbourg with easy access to its festive charm, the Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île provides an ideal city-center location just minutes from Strasbourg's historic Christmas market. This five-star hotel offers a sophisticated blend of Alsatian-inspired decor and high-end amenities, including spacious rooms equipped with Sofitel’s exclusive MyBed™ bedding for a relaxing stay.

For those interested in a blend of festive charm and spa retreat, the Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden is only an hour away from Strasbourg by car or by train. This renowned spa destination offers extensive wellness treatments in a luxurious setting, making it a perfect day trip or overnight stay for travellers.

DUBAI

Dubai, UAE, is one of the warm-weather escapes in December with luxurious attractions, world-class shopping, and stunning desert landscapes. Known for its dazzling skyscrapers and lavish lifestyle, Dubai is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and extravagant experiences. In December, the city enjoys pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring its many attractions, from the towering Burj Khalifa to the vibrant souks, desert safaris, and iconic beachfronts.

The Bulgari Resort Dubai , our accommodation recommendation in Dubai for this time of the year, is located on Jumeira Bay Island, and is one of the city’s most exclusive retreats, combining Italian elegance with Arabian sophistication. The resort features luxurious rooms, suites, and villas, many with private pools and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf or Dubai’s skyline. Its world-class amenities include the award-winning Bulgari Spa, a 1,700-square-meter area offering a range of treatments, a vitality pool, and a hammam. Guests can enjoy fine Italian dining at Il Ristorante - Niko Romito or savor seafood at La Spiaggia by the beach. With private beach access, a yacht club, and meticulously designed interiors, the Bulgari Resort Dubai is perfect for those looking to indulge in a lavish December holiday.

HOKKAIDO

We couldn’t miss Japan on our list of December vacation ideas, especially when it comes to winter magic in Hokkaido. Known for its incredible powder snow, Hokkaido is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, with world-class skiing and snowboarding resorts like Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu drawing visitors from around the globe. December marks the beginning of Hokkaido’s snow season, making it an ideal time for both winter sports and scenic exploration. Beyond the slopes, visitors can enjoy stunning natural hot springs, or onsen, traditional Japanese bathing facilities, perfect for relaxing in the midst of snowy landscapes.

For an unforgettable stay in Hokkaido,Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserveoffers the ultimate blend of luxury and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of Niseko Village, this exclusive resort provides breathtaking views of Mount Yotei and the surrounding snowy landscapes. Guests can relax in elegantly designed rooms with Japanese-inspired details or experience the rejuvenating Spa Chasi La Sothys, where treatments incorporate local elements like black silica and birch. The resort’s private onsen, along with indoor and outdoor mineral-rich baths, is perfect for relaxation after a day on the slopes.

LAPLAND

Lapland in December is a truly magical place for those seeking unique December vacation ideas. At this winter wonderland, visitors have the chance to enjoy the enchanting world of the Arctic. December is one of the best times to witness the northern lights, as the long nights provide more opportunities to view this natural spectacle. Beside catching the northern lights, visitors can explore an array of winter activities unique to Lapland, from husky and reindeer sledding to snowshoeing and ice fishing. Rovaniemi, Lapland’s capital, is also home to Santa Claus Village, a must-visit for families and those who want to capture the holiday spirit in an unforgettable setting.

At the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, guests experience Lapland’s beauty in a luxurious, intimate environment. Located in the hillside overlooking the snowy forests, each suite of the hotel features panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows with the views of the Arctic landscape and, if lucky, the northern lights! The cozy interiors blend Scandinavian design with sustainable materials, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. The hotel’s Rakas Restaurant & Bar serves locally inspired dishes, such as wild game and Arctic char, adding an authentic Finnish touch to the dining experience. Ideal for couples, families, and anyone seeking a unique December getaway with a mix of adventure and relaxation, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel provides an unforgettable way to experience the magic of Lapland in December.

CAPE TOWN

Cape Town in December offers sunshine, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes just as the holiday season sets in. December marks the beginning of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, making it an ideal time to experience Cape Town’s vibrant city life, scenic mountain views, and famous vineyards. Travellers can explore the stunning Table Mountain, wander through the V&A Waterfront, or take a drive along the breathtaking Cape Peninsula. Cape Town’s unique blend of natural beauty and urban life creates an appealing December escape.

At the heart of this lively city is Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel. Set among lush gardens with iconic views of Table Mountain, the hotel blends timeless charm with modern sophistication. Guests can relax at the hotel’s two outdoor pools, enjoy bespoke treatments at Librisa Spa, or gourmet dining at the Planet Restaurant or the Red Room. The hotel also offers unique experiences such as historical tours, private picnics, and curated art walks in the vibrant neighborhoods surrounding the property. With its pink-hued facade and old-world elegance, Mount Nelson offers a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere.

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As the year comes to an end, there’s no better way to close it than with an unforgettable escape. From the festive charm of European Christmas markets to the sunny shores of Dubai and the snow-covered landscapes of Lapland, December offers endless options to suit every traveler’s dream.

At The 79, we’re here to bring your ideal winter getaway to life - whether it’s a warm, tropical retreat or a cozy alpine adventure, we’ll craft a unique and relaxing vacation tailored to your wishes. Let us make this year’s finale truly memorable.

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