Good countries to visit in December (2026)

December is a great time to travel if you want either sunshine or classic winter vibes. Laos is dry and warm, which makes it ideal for exploring temples and the Mekong. It's summer in Australia, so it’s perfect for beaches, road trips and city breaks. Germany and the Czech Republic are at their best for Christmas markets, winter food and festive old towns. Rajasthan in India has cooler, more comfortable weather in December, which is ideal for sightseeing, desert trips and palace cities like Jaipur and Udaipur. These are some of the best places to visit in December, whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or with friends.

Laos

Laos hits a sweet spot in December: the rains have cleared, the humidity drops, and days sit comfortably in the mid-20s — ideal for moving around without melting. Base yourself in Luang Prabang for temple hopping, night markets and waterfall trips to Kuang Si, then head south to Vang Vieng for karst scenery, lagoons and easy hiking. For a slower pace, Si Phan Don (the 4,000 Islands) is where you’ll find hammocks, river sunsets and barely any noise beyond the Mekong. December is also peak river-cruise season, so it’s a great time to travel by boat between towns rather than by road — more scenic, less dusty, and far more relaxed.

• Amantaka promises quiet mornings by your private plunge pool, then yoga with river views. This tiny 24-suite gem has gorgeous heritage interiors, superbly spoiling spa treatments, and staff who know exactly when to show up — and when to give you space! Thanks to the cool air in December, the Mekong boat rides feel extra magical.
• Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum feels like stepping into old Luang Prabang elegance. Shuttered windows, leafy gardens, and a serene pool make it easy to relax after wandering through temples or the night market. On-site cooking and craft classes add a fun twist, while the spa is an indulgent treat for chilly afternoons.
• Perched where two rivers meet, Mekong Riverview Hotel is all about the views. Rooms with balconies and spa baths make it hard to leave, but you’ll want to explore the sights nearby — bike around the UNESCO temples, stroll the night market, or hike up Phousi Mountain. December brings crisp blue skies and beautiful riverside sunsets.
• The Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge is a nature escape with serious charm, complete with rosewood floors, Hmong textiles, and balconies made for sunsets (with an optional beer in hand). Spend your days trekking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife, then return for the farm-to-table menu of delicious local flavours.

Australia

Australia is in complete summer mode in December: long days, hot weather and outdoor adventures galore. Sydney and Bondi are buzzing with beach life and harbour events, while Melbourne is ideal for food, sport and road trips along the Great Ocean Road. Up north, it’s stinger season, so if you’re heading to the Great Barrier Reef or Whitsundays, base yourself somewhere with netted beaches and good boat access. To dodge the crowds, look towards Byron Bay’s hinterland or the quieter beaches of South Australia where it's still warm, far less hectic, and perfect for a more relaxed summer escape.

• Tropical prints, marble bathrooms, and some rooms with balconies, Sydney's 202 Elizabeth is a total vibe. Sip cocktails on the rooftop, join a DJ night, or stretch it out with sunrise yoga. Surry Hills’ bars and late-night eateries are just steps away, making this a grown-up playground for a fun city escape.
• Wake up to vineyard views at Cape Lodge, then wander along white beaches or the nearby limestone caves. The rooms are elegant, the rose garden is dreamy; and the restaurant? Think chef-led cooking classes and a 14,000-bottle wine cellar! It’s luxury, yes, but also a relaxed base to discover Margaret River’s coastline, hikes, and local wines.
• The Dudley is a peaceful hideaway tucked into rolling hills. Spa dips, mineral springs, and hot-air ballooning make mornings feel magical. Rooms mix classic charm with modern touches, and breakfasts come straight from nearby local farms. Perfect for anyone wanting to slow down, explore gardens, hike nearby trails, or just soak in Daylesford’s calm vibes.
• Picture a cosy fireplace, views of the vineyard, and a spa for unwinding. We give you Spicers Vineyards Estate in Pokolbin, New South Wales. You can cycle around the property, take a balloon ride, or saddle up for an exciting horse riding trip. There are twelve rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving fresh seasonal dishes that are paired with wines from the estate. 

Germany

Image by gaocg2018 from Pixabay

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic works surprisingly well in December as it's cold enough for snow, but still easy to get around, and the cities feel sharper and less hectic once winter sets in. Prague is the obvious draw, with Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, plus plenty of cosy bars and beer halls to warm up in. For a quieter base, head to Český Krumlov or Karlovy Vary, where spa hotels and medieval streets look even better under a dusting of snow. Trains are cheap and reliable, so you can mix big-city sightseeing with smaller towns without much effort.

• The Icon Hotel & Lounge in Prague offers bright, airy rooms with pops of purple and all the tech you could need. The spa is a total treat, with a range of massages and aromatherapy treatments. Grab a bite at the tapas bar, then wander to nearby nightlife, markets, or check out Wenceslas Square. Perfect for a December city break with some pampering.
• Three Storks in Mala Strana delivers historic charm alongside modern comfort. Walk to the impressive castle nearby, browse local markets, or just relax on the terrace. This is a great choice for couples or anyone in search of a five star boutique stay.
• When you step into Grandhotel Pupp, in Karlovy Vary, you'll feel transported. Expect opulent rooms, classic decor, and stylish bars that make you want to order another drink. The spa is the perfect space for a reset, and the restaurant serves up both local and international dishes. As it's located two hours outside Prague, you can go hiking, catch a festival, or just soak up the elegant vibes.
• Mezi Plutky is a 200-year-old country house tucked in the Beskydy Mountains. Inside, you'll find original beams, antique touches, and terraces off every room. Breakfast is homemade each day, and trails for skiing, riding, or hiking are right on your doorstep. The ideal spot for slowing down and enjoying nature in December.

Rajasthan, India

India is so huge that its weather in December varies depending on where you want to be. However, Rajasthan is at its best at this time of year, when the heat drops and you can actually enjoy being outside all day. Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur are the main stops for forts, palaces and old-town markets, while the Thar Desert around Jaisalmer is perfect for camel safaris and desert camps once the nights cool down. It’s a busy month, so we recommend mixing a few headline cities with stays in quieter heritage hotels or rural retreats around Bundi or Nimaj. You get clear skies, comfortable temperatures and festival season in full swing — without the brutal summer heat.

• Ratan Vilas delivers cosy, family haveli vibes in the centre of Jodhpur, with sunny rooms, colourful Indian fabrics, and courtyards you’ll want to lounge in all day. Chill out by the pool, watch traditional Rajasthani performances, or try a cooking class. Laid-back, welcoming, and full of history — it’s a perfect December escape without the city chaos.
• Amet Haveli is full of classic old-school lakeside charm. Interiors boast white walls, stained glass, and quirky antiques, while rooms overlook Lake Pichola, meaning you can watch boats float by with your morning coffee. A small pool, courtyard garden, and a terrace restaurant make it easy to soak up the views and vibe of Udaipur.
• RAAS Chhatrasagar isn’t your usual camp — it embodies luxury in tents with huge beds, marble bathrooms, and private terraces. Spot peacocks or wild boar right outside, swim in the heated pool, or feast on organic meals right next to the lake. This place truly feels like your own secret hideaway, with sunrise views and starry nights.
• Ranvas features a handful of historic havelis in the Thar Desert, which have been turned into a romantic retreat. Hop on a camel or horse for a desert safari, then kick back and relax at the pool or spa. Candlelit dinners and amazing-smelling gardens create fairytale vibes. The perfect place for a couples' escape.

Still not sure?

• Refine your search to include our suggestions for the best relaxed riverside hotels in Laos, the best clamping escapes in Western Australia,  the best hotels in Mitte, Berlin, the best Prague hotels with pools or the best palace hotels in Rajasthan,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.