Best Places to Visit in December Outside India – Must-See Winter Escapes!

December is that magical time of the year when travel fever peaks! December is the perfect season to pack your bags and jet off to an international destination whether you are dreaming of a snowy wonderland, a tropical paradise, or a festive European escape.

If you’re wondering which country to visit in December, looking for the best international places to visit in December, or planning a dreamy winter getaway, this guide has got you covered. From fairy-tale Christmas markets to sun-kissed beaches, I’ve personally experienced the thrill of traveling during December—and trust me, it’s absolutely worth it!

Let’s explore the best places to visit in December outside India, along with how to reach, where to stay, what to do, and even how to stay connected abroad. Buckle up—your dream holiday awaits!

Hey there traveler! Looking for the best places to visit in December outside India? For winter wonderland vibes, head to Switzerland. Ski in Zermatt, take the scenic Glacier Express, and sip Swiss hot chocolate at magical Christmas markets. The Maldives is pure paradise if you prefer a sunny escape. Stay in overwater villas, snorkel with manta rays, and enjoy stunning sunset cruises. Thailand is calling if you are all about beaches and adventure! Party at the Full Moon festival, island-hop in Phuket, or dive into crystal-clear waters in Koh Tao. Dubai is the place go if you are looking for luxury and dazzling city lights. Go for desert dune bashing, visit the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa) and shop till you drop at the Dubai Shopping Festival.

No matter what kind of traveler you are, December is the perfect time to explore. So, where’s your next trip? Book your flights, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Safe travels! ✈️🌍

Switzerland – A Winter Wonderland Straight Out of a Fairytale!

What you experience– If you love snow-capped mountains, festive Christmas markets, and scenic train rides, Switzerland is the ultimate destination in December. It’s one of the best places to visit in December in the world, offering breathtaking landscapes and winter sports galore. Skiing and snowboarding are ideal in the Swiss Alps which include Zermatt and St. Moritz. Known as the “Top of Europe,” the Jungfraujoch provides breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains. Twinkling lights, mulled wine and handcrafted items abound in the Christmas markets in Basel, Lucerne and Zurich. Lake Geneva is a sight to behold with winter cruises and the Montreux Noël market. A scenic train excursion over snowy scenery is offered by the Glacier Express. Whether you are enjoying winter sports, quaint chalets or seasonal celebrations Switzerland is one of the best places to visit in December from India.

How to Reach

• ✈️ Book Flights at the Best Prices – Find Cheap Flights Now
• Visa: Schengen visa required (~₹7,200).

Where to Stay– 🏨 Luxury & Budget Hotels at Discounted Rates – Browse Hotels & Homestays

Where to Eat- Fine Dining at Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Ville – A Michelin-starred delight. For Local Treats Try Authentic Swiss fondue at Fribourger Fonduestübli in Zurich.

Things to Do- Do Skiing & Snowboarding in Zermatt and St. Moritz. Explore Christmas Markets in Zurich and Geneva. Take the Glacier Express scenic train through snowy mountains. Visit Jungfraujoch, the ‘Top of Europe’, for a breathtaking alpine view.

Best Time to Visit- December to February is perfect for winter sports and festive vibes!

Thailand – Beaches, Parties & Island Adventures!

What you Experience-If you’re craving sun, sea, and sand, Thailand is hands down one of the best countries to visit in December for a tropical escape. From Full Moon parties to island hopping, December in Thailand is pure magic. Bangkok dazzles with its bustling markets and grand temples like Wat Arun. Chiang Mai hosts the magical Yi Peng Lantern Festival, while Phuket and Krabi offer pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan is a must for party lovers. Northern regions like Pai and Chiang Rai provide breathtaking mountain views. December also brings the festive Christmas and New Year celebrations, making it a fantastic time to visit Thailand for culture, adventure, and relaxation.

How to Reach

• ✈️ Book Flights at the Best Prices – Find Cheap Flights Now
• Visa: Visa on arrival (₹4,000).

Where to Stay-🏨 Luxury & Budget Hotels at Discounted Rates – Browse Hotels & Homestays

Where to Eat- Fine Dining at Gaggan Anand a Michelin-starred Indian-fusion food in Bangkok. For Street FoodDon’t miss Pad Thai at Thip Samai in Bangkok.

Things to Do- Island hopping to Phi Phi & Similan Islands. Scuba diving & snorkeling in Koh Tao. Full Moon Party at Koh Phangan. Explore floating markets in Bangkok.

Best Time to Visit- November to April is best for sunny skies, no monsoons, and perfect beach weather.

Dubai – The Ultimate Luxury Escape

What you Experience-Dubai in one of the favorite places to visit outside India in December. From the Dubai Shopping Festival to jaw-dropping attractions like the Burj Khalifa, this is a must-visit international destination in December. Visit the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views, explore the Dubai Mall for shopping and entertainment, and relax at Jumeirah Beach. The Global Village and Dubai Miracle Garden showcase vibrant cultural and floral displays. Experience the Dubai Desert Safari for thrilling dune bashing and camel rides. The city sparkles with Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, including the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks. From winter markets to yacht cruises, Dubai in December offers an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and festivities making it one of the best countries to visit in the World.

How to Reach

• ✈️ Book Flights at the Best Prices – Find Cheap Flights Now
• Visa: UAE visa (₹6,000 – ₹8,000).

Where to Stay– 🏨 Luxury & Budget Hotels at Discounted Rates – Browse Hotels & Homestays

Where to Eat- Luxury Dining at Pierchic that is overwater seafood restaurant. Try Local Bites at Al Mallah known for Best Shawarma in Dubai!

Things to Do- Go dune bashing in the Arabian desert. Visit Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall for epic views & shopping. Take a yacht cruise at Dubai Marina. Enjoy the Dubai Shopping Festival (December-January).

Best Time to Visit- November to March is pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

France – Parisian Romance & Christmas Magic

What you Expereince-If you are looking for romance, Christmas lights and festive markets, France is one of the best countries to visit in December. Paris in winter? Simply breathtaking. In December France is a winter wonderland with festive markets, snowy landscapes and cultural charm. Paris dazzles with Christmas lights, ice skating rinks and window displays at Galeries Lafayette. Strasbourg the “Capital of Christmas,” boasts Europe’s oldest Christmas market. The French Alps offer world-class skiing in resorts like Chamonix and Courchevel. The Loire Valley’s castles shine with holiday decorations while Provence hosts traditional nativity scenes. Mont Saint-Michel looks magical with fewer crowds. Wine lovers can explore Bordeaux’s cozy vineyards. France is one of the best places to travel in December, a dream destination for holiday cheer, and winter magic whether you are enjoying gourmet delights or festive ambiance.

How to Reach

• ✈️ Book Flights at the Best Prices – Find Cheap Flights Now
• Visa: Schengen visa (₹7,200).

Where to Stay– 🏨 Luxury & Budget Hotels at Discounted Rates – Browse Hotels & Homestays

Things to Do- Visit the Eiffel Tower & Louvre Museum. Explore Christmas markets in Strasbourg. Ski in the French Alps.

Best Time to Visit- December—experience Christmas magic and Parisian charm.

Maldives – A Tropical Paradise for a Perfect Beach Escape

What your Experience– Imagine waking up in an overwater villa, sipping coffee with the ocean at your feet and diving straight into crystal-clear waters—this is what Maldives in December feels like! If you are looking for the best places to visit in December outside India for sun, luxury and relaxation Maldives is your dream destination. December is the ideal time for beach lovers and honeymooners. Popular attractions include Malé City, known for its vibrant markets and cultural sites like the Grand Friday Mosque. Snorkeling and diving reveal stunning marine life at Banana Reef and Maaya Thila. Luxury resorts on private islands offer world-class hospitality. Bioluminescent beaches in Vaadhoo glow magically at night. Enjoy dolphin watching, sunset cruises and water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. December also marks festive celebrations, making it a perfect winter getaway.

How to Reach

• ✈️ Book Flights at the Best Prices – Find Cheap Flights Now
• Visa: No visa required for Indians! (Free visa on arrival for 90 days).
• Local Transport: Seaplanes & speedboats are the primary modes of transport between islands.

Where to Stay– 🏨 Luxury & Budget Hotels at Discounted Rates – Browse Hotels & Homestays

Where to Eat- Luxury Dining at Ithaa Undersea Restaurant – Have a meal underwater, surrounded by marine life! Try Local Food Mas Huni (tuna and coconut salad) at Seagull Café House in Malé.

Things to Do- Explore vibrant coral reefs and spot manta rays! Visit private islands with picture-perfect beaches. Watch playful dolphins at sunset. The Maldives has the world’s first underwater hotel at Conrad Maldives! Try water sports like Jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding in the calm Indian Ocean.

Best Time to Visit- November to April – The dry season offers clear skies, sunny days, and perfect waters for diving.

Essential Travel Tips & Resources

• Book Flights & Hotels: Check Trip.com, and Booking.com for best deals.
• Travel Insurance: Stay safe with Ekta.
• Stay Connected: Use an Yesim e-SIM for hassle-free internet.
• Car Rentals: Rent with Hertz for road trips.

Conclusion

Whether you want a winter wonderland in Switzerland, a beach escape in Thailand, or a luxury retreat in Dubai, December is the perfect time to explore international places. From the best countries to visit in December in Europe to exotic islands, now is the best time to book that trip!

Where will you be traveling this December?

FAQ