20 Best Places to Visit in December 

The holiday season transforms many destinations around the world into magical winter wonderlands. From snow-covered forests and mountains to cozy chalets and streets lined with twinkling lights, December delivers an enchanting atmosphere perfect for the holidays. If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or seeking a fairy tale getaway this winter, these 20 locales offer some of the best places to visit in December for a true winter wonderland experience.

So what exactly makes a destination a winter wonderland? Ideal conditions include snowfall, cold temperatures, and wintry landscapes like mountains, forests, and frozen lakes. Northern latitudes are more likely to provide that picture-perfect, snow-globe setting. Magical atmospheres full of holiday cheer also define a winter wonderland. You’ll find festive decorations like Christmas lights and markets, plus events like festivals, parades, and shows. And of course, an abundance of winter activities from skiing to sledding, skating, and more.

This list features some of the world’s best places to enjoy snowy settings, holiday magic, and winter activities during the most wonderful time of the year. So bundle up, grab a mug of hot cocoa, and get ready to explore these 20 top destinations for an unforgettable winter wonderland getaway in December.

What Makes a Destination a Winter Wonderland?

Certain conditions and characteristics define an ideal winter wonderland, especially in the month of December. Here are some of the key ingredients that transform a place into a magical winter landscape perfect for the holidays:

• Snowfall and Cold Weather - Steady snowfall and frigid temperatures (think well below freezing!) create the winter wonderland backdrop. Fresh blankets of snow covering the ground, trees, and buildings is what you want to see. Places with high elevations and Northern latitudes are more likely to deliver snowy settings.

• Mountain Landscapes - Majestic mountain ranges and peaks topped with snow create picture-perfect views and winter vistas. Valleys, forests, and lakes covered in snow also add to the scenic landscapes. Places like the Swiss Alps and Canadian Rockies offer prime mountainous winter wonderlands.

• Fairy Tale Atmospheres - Twinkling lights strung on trees and buildings along with Christmas markets, festivals, and parades make for magical atmospheres. Sleigh rides, snow-covered cottages, and cozy lodges with fireplaces also evoke fairy tale-like settings.

• Holiday Festivities - Events like outdoor Christmas markets, light displays, holiday parades and shows, and seasonal festivals ramp up the festive cheer. Enjoying hot mulled wine while ice skating or browsing the stalls at a Christmas market adds to the wonder.

• Winter Sports and Activities - Top spots for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, and other cold weather sports and activities let you fully embrace winter. Après ski scenes with warm drinks and fireside hangouts also contribute to the seasonal fun.

• Cozy Indoor Attractions - For when it’s too cold outdoors, winter wonderlands also shine with cozy indoor attractions like cafes with fireplaces, restaurants serving rich comfort foods, and venues to enjoy music, theater, and light displays in the warmth.

Top 20 Winter Wonderland Destinations in December

Based on idyllic snowy settings, holiday magic, and abundance of winter activities, here are 20 of the best places to visit for a winter wonderland experience in December:

1. Lapland, Finland

The Arctic region of Lapland transforms into a snowy winter wonderland, especially around Christmas. Visit Santa Claus Village to meet Joulupukki (Santa Claus) himself and cross the magical Arctic Circle. Go for a reindeer sleigh ride, gaze at the Northern Lights, and stay in a glass igloo.

2. Quebec City, Canada

With European charm and winter carnivals, Quebec City dazzles in December. Stroll through Christmas markets in Old Quebec, go ice skating on Dufferin Terrace, and enjoy winter sports. Don’t miss the German Christmas market on the waterfront.

3. Zermatt, Switzerland

Breathtaking views of the iconic Matterhorn combined with horse-drawn sleigh rides, skiing, and snowboarding make Zermatt a top winter destination. Stroll car-free streets lined with chalets and enjoy après-ski.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik’s winter landscapes and geothermal springs make for an idyllic cold weather getaway. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, go ice cave exploring, and hunt for the Northern Lights.

5. Aspen, Colorado, USA

World-renowned for skiing and snowboarding, Aspen boasts powdery slopes and a lively après-ski scene. Catch live music performances and go ice skating under the stars.

6. Banff, Alberta, Canada

Banff National Park turns magical in winter with activities like downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and glacier tours. Soak in the scenery of snow-covered peaks and evergreen forests.

7. Bern, Switzerland

Wander Bern’s UNESCO old town decorated with lights and shop at Christmas markets. Don’t miss the illuminated Zytglogge medieval clock tower. Indulge in Swiss fondue at a restaurant.

8. North Pole, Alaska, USA

The town of North Pole fully embraces its Christmas name with the Santa Claus House, reindeer ranch, ice sculptures, and more. Kids can meet Santa and his elves.

9. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada, USA

Lake Tahoe straddling California and Nevada dazzles in winter with abundant ski resorts and a winter carnival. Enjoy the casinos and shows in South Lake Tahoe.

10. Abisko, Sweden

Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland offers prime Northern Lights viewing and sled dog tours. Go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling across the scenic landscapes.

11. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague captivates with its Christmas markets and medieval architecture covered in snow. Wander around the astronomic clock, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square.

12. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark’s capital city showcases hygge culture with its cozy cafes, Tivoli Gardens, and harborside Nyhavn district decorated for the holidays. Visit a Christmas market or the Hans Christian Andersen Christmas house.

13. Narvik, Norway

This arctic Norwegian town offers reindeer sledding, skiing, Northern Lights tours, and a popular ski jump. Take the cable car up the mountain for panoramic views.

14. Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo’s annual Snow Festival showcases massive snow and ice sculptures. Enjoy the sculptures at night during illuminations. Visit the hot springs and sample ramen.

15. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA

World-class skiing and snowboarding draws crowds to Jackson Hole with its rugged Teton mountain views. Go snowmobiling, sleigh riding, or wildlife watching.

16. Zakopane, Poland

Nestled in the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane charms with its wooden architecture and highlander culture. Go skiing, snowboarding, or winter hiking through the snowy landscape.

17. Sälen, Sweden

Sälen is Sweden’s largest ski resort town, known for its lively après-ski scene and torchlight descents down the mountain at night. Take a sleddog tour through the valley.

18. Lech am Arlberg, Austria

This charming Austrian alpine village transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing and winter hiking. Après-ski at an outdoor bar or restaurant in the fresh mountain air.

19. Harbin, China

Harbin’s annual Ice and Snow Festival showcases elaborate and massive illuminated ice sculptures. See snow and ice replicas of landmarks from around the world.

20. Kiruna, Sweden

Located in Swedish Lapland, Kiruna offers dog sledding, reindeer encounters, ice fishing, skiing, and prime Northern Lights viewing opportunities.

Planning Your Perfect Winter Wonderland Getaway

Once you’ve picked a top winter wonderland destination, here are some tips for planning your ideal snowy holiday getaway:

• Best Times to Visit - Early December or late December are best for holiday festivities. Mid-December can be expensive. Check opening dates for attractions.

• Average Weather and Packing Tips - Research average temperatures and snowfall. Pack warm layers, winter boots, hats, gloves, and cold weather gear.

• Budgeting - Prices surge around the holidays. Factor in flights, hotels, activities, holiday events, food, and shopping. Book early to save.

• Health Precautions - Be aware of winter flu risks and taking precautions like washing hands frequently, covering coughs/sneezes, and getting a flu shot. Also be careful walking on icy sidewalks and roads. Stay hydrated as the air is dry. Watch for altitude sickness in mountain towns.

• Types of Activities - Consider what winter activities interest you most - skiing, winter hiking, ice skating, reindeer sledding, snowmobiling, etc. Not all destinations offer all activities.

• Holiday Crowds - Some destinations will be very crowded during the holidays, especially around Christmas. Others are less crowded but still festive.

• Travel Insurance - Recommended in case weather causes delays/cancellations. Look for policies that cover winter sports.

Experience the Magic of a Winter Wonderland

December brings many destinations around the world to life with enchanting winter charm and holiday splendor. From snow-covered vistas to lively Christmas markets and festivities, these 20 locales offer some of the best places to revel in the spirit and beauty of the season. Whether you prefer majestic mountain settings, European-style holidays, or winter thrills, you’re sure to find a magical winter wonderland that suits your style.

So start planning that perfect snowy getaway this December. Snuggle up by a crackling fire, go for a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or sip mulled wine while ice skating. Make lifelong memories enjoying the sights, activities, and holiday cheer of these winter wonderlands at their merriest and brightest time of year.