Are you planning a winter wonderland trip in the holiday season? Let me give you some tips.
When December arrives, the northern hemisphere transforms into a winter wonderland. From fairy-tale towns covered in snow to epic ski slopes and magical Northern Lights, December offers some of the best travel experiences for those who love the cold. Whether you’re looking for cozy Christmas markets, powdery ski trails, or frozen landscapes, here are the best winter destinations in December.
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Prague, Czech Republic
Why December is Perfect for Prague
Prague in December is like stepping into a fairy tale. The Gothic spires, cobblestone alleys, and medieval squares glow under a layer of snow, while the famous Old Town Christmas Market brings the heart of the city to life. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the streets, and the sight of the astronomical clock lit up at night feels magical. Beyond the festive charm, Prague is a city of cozy cafés and hidden corners where you can escape the cold with a hearty Czech meal. December adds a mystical layer to an already enchanting city.
5 Best Things to Do in Prague in December
- Christmas Market at Old Town Square – Sip mulled wine, try trdelník pastries, and shop local crafts (Free to browse, €3–6 for food).
- Prague Castle in the snow – Explore the grand castle complex with fewer tourists (€12).
- Charles Bridge at sunrise – Magical views of the Vltava River (Free).
- Boat ride on the Vltava – See Prague from a heated boat (€15).
- Classical music concert in a baroque church – A winter tradition (€20–40).
How Expensive is Prague
Budget: ⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 2.50 € |
| Meal at local pub | 10–12 € |
| Beer | 2 € |
| Hostel per night | 20–30 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 70–100 € |
Best Tips in Prague
- Don’t Miss: The Old Town Square Christmas Market and Charles Bridge covered in snow.
- How to Get Around: The city is compact—walking is the best way, but trams help in the cold.
- Perfect Travel Length: 3–4 days.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Why December is Perfect for Zermatt
Zermatt is the ultimate alpine dream, and December marks the start of its most enchanting season. At the base of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the world, this car-free town becomes a snowy wonderland. Skiers from around the globe arrive for pristine slopes, but even non-skiers can enjoy mountain railways, fine dining, and cozy chalets with fireplaces. The festive decorations and snow-covered rooftops give Zermatt a postcard-perfect look. Whether you’re gliding down the slopes or simply admiring the mountains, Zermatt in December is pure winter magic.
5 Best Things to Do in Zermatt in December
- Ski the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Europe’s highest ski slopes (€70–90/day pass).
- Gornergrat Railway – Ride the cogwheel train for stunning alpine views (€50).
- Winter hiking trails – Snow-covered trails with Matterhorn views (Free).
- Fondue dinner in a chalet – A must-try Swiss tradition (€30–40).
- Ice skating in the village rink – A festive evening activity (€10 with rentals).
How Expensive is Zermatt
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 4.50 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 25–40 € |
| Beer | 6 € |
| Hostel per night | 40–60 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 150–250 € |
Best Tips in Zermatt
- Don’t Miss: Skiing under the Matterhorn and a ride on the Gornergrat railway.
- How to Get Around: Zermatt is car-free—walk, use electric taxis, or horse-drawn sleighs.
- Perfect Travel Length: 4–5 days.
Innsbruck & Salzburg, Austria
Why December is Perfect for Innsbruck & Salzburg
Innsbruck is a city where the Alps rise dramatically above pastel-colored houses, and December turns it into a snowy paradise. Skiers can head straight from the city into the mountains, while in town, Christmas markets line the medieval streets. Salzburg, on the other hand, is one of Europe’s most romantic cities during the holidays. Its baroque squares glow under festive lights, Mozart’s hometown fills with classical concerts, and the Christkindlmarkt is among the oldest and most atmospheric in Europe. Together, Innsbruck and Salzburg offer the perfect mix of winter adventure and festive charm.
5 Best Things to Do in Innsbruck & Salzburg in December
- Innsbruck Christmas Market – Alpine backdrop with glowing stalls (Free to browse).
- Ski at Nordkette – Ski slopes accessible directly from Innsbruck (€50–60/day).
- Salzburg Old Town & Fortress Hohensalzburg – Fairytale architecture in the snow (€15).
- Attend a Mozart concert – Celebrate Salzburg’s most famous composer (€25–50).
- Horse-drawn carriage ride in snowy streets (€40).
How Expensive are Innsbruck & Salzburg
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 3.50 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 15–20 € |
| Beer | 4 € |
| Hostel per night | 25–40 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 100–150 € |
Best Tips in Innsbruck & Salzburg
- Don’t Miss: Salzburg’s Christmas Market & the Golden Roof in Innsbruck.
- How to Get Around: Trains connect the cities in 2 hours, both are walkable.
- Perfect Travel Length: 4–5 days to see both.
Iceland’s South Coast
Why December is Perfect for Iceland’s South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland in December is a dramatic blend of fire and ice. Waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss freeze into glittering icicles, black sand beaches are dusted with snow, and the glaciers become accessible for guided hikes and ice cave explorations. Long nights create the perfect conditions for Northern Lights, while the short daylight hours bathe the landscapes in golden twilight. Traveling in Iceland during December feels like entering another planet—harsh, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful.
5 Best Things to Do on Iceland’s South Coast in December
- Chase the Northern Lights – Guided tours or self-drive (€50–100).
- Visit Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss waterfalls – Stunning icy cascades (Free).
- Walk on Reynisfjara black sand beach – One of the world’s most dramatic coastlines (Free).
- Glacier hike in Vatnajökull – Ice caves and frozen crevasses (€120–150).
- Relax in geothermal pools – Warm up in natural hot springs (€30–50).
How Expensive is Iceland
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 4.50 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 20–30 € |
| Beer | 7 € |
| Hostel per night | 30–50 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 120–180 € |
Best Tips in Iceland’s South Coast
- Don’t Miss: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, plus an ice cave tour.
- How to Get Around: Renting a 4×4 car is essential in winter.
- Perfect Travel Length: 5–6 days for Reykjavík and the South Coast.
Lapland, Finland
Why December is Perfect for Lapland
Lapland is the definition of a winter wonderland. With snow-covered forests stretching endlessly, reindeer pulling sleighs, and Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, it’s no surprise December is the peak season. But beyond the festive charm, Lapland offers adventure: husky sledding, snowmobiling across frozen lakes, and chasing the Northern Lights. Nights in glass igloos or log cabins complete the Arctic fantasy. For anyone who loves Christmas, Lapland in December feels like stepping inside a dream.
5 Best Things to Do in Lapland in December
- Northern Lights Safari – Reindeer, huskies, or snowmobiles (€80–120).
- Meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi – A magical family experience (Free entry, €20–30 photos).
- Stay in a glass igloo – Sleep under the aurora (€200–400/night).
- Snowshoeing & cross-country skiing – Explore the Arctic wilderness (€30).
- Reindeer sleigh ride – Traditional Lappish adventure (€50–70).
How Expensive is Lapland
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 3.50 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 18–25 € |
| Beer | 7 € |
| Hostel per night | 35–50 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 120–180 € |
Best Tips in Lapland
- Don’t Miss: A night in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights.
- How to Get Around: Domestic flights and buses connect Rovaniemi and nearby towns.
- Perfect Travel Length: 4–5 days.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Why December is Perfect for Lofoten
The Lofoten Islands are one of the most dramatic winter destinations on Earth. In December, the polar night creates just a few hours of deep twilight, painting the skies in shades of pink and blue. Snow covers the fishing villages, red cabins reflect against icy fjords, and the chance of spotting the Northern Lights is high. It’s remote, rugged, and atmospheric, perfect for travelers who want a wild Arctic experience far away from crowds.
5 Best Things to Do in Lofoten in December
- Aurora hunting tours – Dark skies make Lofoten ideal (€70–100).
- Stay in a rorbu cabin – Cozy up in a traditional fishing hut (€100–150/night).
- Arctic surfing in Unstad – Surfing under the Northern Lights (€60–80).
- Fishing trip in icy fjords – A local experience (€70–120).
- Snowy hikes with fjord views – Rugged winter trails (Free).
How Expensive are the Lofoten Islands
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 4.50 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 20–30 € |
| Beer | 8 € |
| Hostel per night | 40–60 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 130–200 € |
Best Tips in Lofoten
- Don’t Miss: Reine village and a Northern Lights chase.
- How to Get Around: Renting a car is the best way to explore the islands.
- Perfect Travel Length: 4–5 days.
Québec City & Montreal, Canada
Why December is Perfect for Québec & Montreal
Québec City and Montreal are two of North America’s most atmospheric winter cities. Québec City’s cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture look like a scene straight out of a European Christmas market, especially under a blanket of snow. Montreal, with its lively neighborhoods, outdoor ice rinks, and winter festivals, adds a cosmopolitan touch to the season. Both cities are cold—sometimes extremely so—but that’s part of their charm, as cozy cafés and hearty French-Canadian cuisine keep visitors warm. Together, they make a magical December getaway.
5 Best Things to Do in Quebec & Montreal in December
- Quebec Christmas Market – A European-style festive market (Free).
- Ice skating at Parc La Fontaine in Montreal – Classic winter fun (€5 rentals).
- Explore Old Quebec City – UNESCO World Heritage Site in snow (Free).
- Try poutine & hot chocolate – The ultimate Canadian comfort food (€10–15).
- Ski at Mont Tremblant – One of Canada’s best resorts (€60–80/day pass).
How Expensive are Québec & Montreal
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 3 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 15–25 € |
| Beer | 6 € |
| Hostel per night | 25–40 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 100–150 € |
Best Tips in Québec & Montreal
- Don’t Miss: Québec City’s Old Town and Montreal’s Christmas markets.
- How to Get Around: Trains and buses connect both cities in 3 hours.
- Perfect Travel Length: 5–6 days.
Aspen, USA
Why December is Perfect for Aspen
Aspen is a name synonymous with luxury skiing, but it’s more than just a playground for the rich and famous. In December, the ski season is in full swing, and the four surrounding mountains provide terrain for beginners and experts alike. The town itself is alive with festive lights, après-ski bars, boutique shopping, and cozy chalets. Aspen is one of those rare destinations where the lifestyle off the slopes is just as rewarding as the skiing itself.
5 Best Things to Do in Aspen in December
- Ski or snowboard Aspen’s four mountains – World-class slopes (€120–150/day pass).
- Snowshoe tours in Maroon Bells – Stunning alpine scenery (€40–60).
- Après-ski cocktails – Iconic Aspen nightlife (€15–20 per drink).
- Hot air balloon ride over snowy peaks – A unique perspective (€250).
- Ice skating in Aspen town – Charming winter activity (€10 with rentals).
How Expensive is Aspen
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 4.50 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 25–40 € |
| Beer | 7 € |
| Hostel per night | 40–60 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 200–300 € |
Best Tips in Aspen
- Don’t Miss: Skiing Aspen Mountain and après-ski at Ajax Tavern.
- How to Get Around: Walking works best, but shuttles connect ski areas.
- Perfect Travel Length: 4–5 days.
Nagano, Japan
Why December is Perfect for Nagano
Nagano combines Japanese tradition with world-class winter sports. December is the start of ski season, and the surrounding mountains become some of Asia’s best places for snow. At the same time, Nagano offers hot springs, Zenko-ji Temple, and the unforgettable sight of snow monkeys bathing in natural onsen at Jigokudani. It’s a rare mix of culture and adventure, and December’s crisp air and snowy landscapes make it even more special.
5 Best Things to Do in Nagano in December
- Ski in Hakuba Valley – One of Japan’s top ski resorts (€40–60/day pass).
- Visit Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park – Watch monkeys soak in hot springs (€6).
- Relax in an onsen – Traditional Japanese hot springs (€10–20).
- Explore Zenko-ji Temple – A cultural winter highlight (€5).
- Try local soba noodles – A warming Japanese specialty (€5–8).
How Expensive is Nagano
Budget: ⭐⭐⭐
| Expense | Average Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Coffee | 3 € |
| Meal at restaurant | 10–15 € |
| Beer | 5 € |
| Hostel per night | 20–30 € |
| Mid-range hotel | 80–120 € |
Best Tips in Nagano
- Don’t Miss: Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park and Zenko-ji Temple.
- How to Get Around: The Shinkansen bullet train connects Nagano with Tokyo in 1.5 hours.
- Perfect Travel Length: 3–4 days.
