The classic Thailand tour taking in vibrant Bangkok, the lush River Kwai, historic Ayutthaya and charming Chiang Mai. Round it all off on Koh Samui’s lovely beaches.
Are you hoping to get away for Christmas in December 2025?
Many of our destinations are exceptional at this time of year, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a bit of both.
We’ve put together 9 destinations that are (also) amazing in December.
Where do you dream of travelling to?
It wasn’t December you were looking for? Find out where to travel to in October, November or January.
For many people, December is one of the best times to travel to Thailand – you get pleasant weather and very little rain across the country. December is therefore an ideal month to explore Thailand’s bustling cities and its idyllic beaches.
In Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, December offers clear skies and moderate temperatures that are perfect for visiting the city’s famous temples such as Wat Arun and Wat Pho, shopping in the lively markets such as Chatuchak Weekend Market, and enjoying the city’s world-famous street food.
In Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural capital in the north, the weather invites you to explore the surrounding mountain landscapes or to visit ChangChill Elephant Sanctuary – home to six happy female elephants.
Round off your tour to Thailand with a visit to one of the beautiful beach destinations, e.g. the holiday paradise of Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, which is guaranteed to impress with its white sandy beaches and exciting experiences. Visit the old town, which is hard not to fall in love with.
The classic Thailand tour taking in vibrant Bangkok, the lush River Kwai, historic Ayutthaya and charming Chiang Mai. Round it all off on Koh Samui’s lovely beaches.
Visit three of Southern Thailand’s heavenly islands, with views of iconic, vertical limestone cliffs and traditional longboats – giving you that perfect background.
Do you dream of lazing in paradise surroundings while discovering Thai culture and unspoiled island life? Experience 2 islands with everything from picture-postcard beaches to waterfalls and local landmarks.
Look forward to relaxing at Thailand’s No. 1 beach holiday destination, Phuket, and experiencing the country’s most scenic national park, Khao Sok. Round off your tour in the quiet, authentic beach paradise that is Khao Lak.
Look forward to combining the absolute highlights of Thailand in Bangkok, the River Kwai, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai with a fantastic beach holiday in the holiday paradise that is Phuket.
Look forward to experiences and relaxation on the coconut island of Koh Samui and head out on an adventure in Thailand’s most beautiful national park, Khao Sok. Round it all off in the authentic holiday paradise of Khao Lak.
Come and experience Thailand from north to south with charming Chiang Mai, vibrant Bangkok and the lush Khao Sok National Park. Round it all off on Phuket’s fabulous sandy beaches.
Discover Krabi’s beautiful beaches and look forward to island-hopping adventures in the Andaman Sea. Enjoy Koh Lanta’s laid-back atmosphere and unwind completely on Koh Ngai’s paradisiacal beaches.
Look forward to city life in Bangkok, a lively island vibe in Phuket and wind right down on the charming, peaceful island of Koh Yao Yai in Phang Nga Bay.
Experience Bangkok’s vibrant city life with an exciting street food excursion in tuk tuk, explore untouched nature and wild elephants in Khao Yai and enjoy a relaxing beach holiday on Koh Samet’s white beaches.
Discover all the shades of Thailand: the lively streets and delectable street food of Bangkok, the calming atmosphere and ancient temples of Chiang Mai, and the adventures in the Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai.
Explore the vibrant city of Bangkok and its culinary delights on a tuk-tuk street food tour. Conclude with an adventurous island hop between the tranquil serenity of Koh Kood and the lively atmosphere of Koh Chang.
Look forward to experiencing the wonder of the world, Angkor Wat, enjoy the view over Luang Prabang from Mount Phousi, and fall in love with the charming city of Chiang Mai.
Be enchanted by Hanoi’s ancient streets and sail between the soaring limestone islands in Ha Long Bay. Experience the eighth wonder of the world Angkor Wat, and finish in the charming city of Chiang Mai.
Join us in Northern Thailand and experience Chiang Mai and the picturesque Mae Hong Son loop. The tour is for those who have explored Thailand’s highlights and are now looking for new adventures off the beaten track.
Experience Bangkok’s striking contrasts and fantastic food scene, while diving into history by the River Kwai. Explore the impressive temple ruins of Ayutthaya and conclude your journey on the beautiful beaches of Koh Samet.
Experience the contrasts of Bangkok, the jungle of Khao Sok, and the emerald-green Cheow Lan Lake. Conclude your tour on Krabi’s delightful sandy beaches with opportunities for relaxation and exciting excursions.
Mexico in December is an experience that combines fantastic weather, lively cultural celebrations and unique natural experiences. December is the dry season in Mexico, making it an ideal time to explore both the beaches and the inland regions.
Beach destinations such as Playa del Carmen and Tulum on the Yucatán Peninsula offer sunny days with pleasant temperatures, ideal for those looking to escape Europe’s chilly climate. We also recommend exploring the stunning Mexican cenotes, which are much-needed oases in the Mexican heat.
If you’re interested in history and archaeology, December offers clear weather to visit the ancient Mayan ruins such as Chichén Itzá, Tulum and Palenque.
Join us on an adventure on Mexico’s beautiful Yucatán Peninsula and experience Playa del Carmen, Valladolid, Chichen Itza and conclude with a beach holiday on Isla Holbox’s paradise beaches.
Join an exciting tour where you’ll experience Mexico’s impressive Mayan ruins, breathtaking nature, vibrant colonial towns, and local communities, finishing with a beach holiday in Playa del Carmen.
Discover the highlights of Mexico on an exhilarating tour featuring impressive Mayan ruins, magnificent landscapes, vibrant colonial towns, and authentic Mayan villages, concluding in the beach paradise of Tulum.
Look forward to experiencing the very best that Yucatán has to offer – from magnificent Mayan ruins and charming colonial towns to powder-white sandy beaches and a magical lagoon shimmering in seven shades of blue.
Experience Mexico’s magical blend of culture, nature, and history – from ancient Aztec capital and charming colonial towns, to awe-inspiring Mayan ruins and powder-soft Caribbean beaches.
Magnificent Maya ruins, vibrant colonial history, and breathtaking natural wonders – get ready to experience some of the most captivating highlights of Yucatán.
Travelling to Uganda in December offers a unique chance to experience the country’s magnificent natural beauty and abundant wildlife at one of the best times of the year.
December falls within Uganda’s brief dry season. This time of year is characterised by less rain and therefore fewer muddy tracks, making it easier to enjoy a precious encounter with the rare mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Uganda’s national parks are also brimming with life in December. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes and a myriad of bird species.
Experience the absolute highlights of Uganda; Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest freshwater lake, the Equator and the 3 national parks Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable and Lake Mburu.
From Kenya’s vibrant capital, Nairobi, to safaris in Amboseli National Park with views of Kilimanjaro. Continue to Uganda, where you’ll go trekking in the rainforest in search of mountain gorillas.
Embark on an unforgettable tour through five of Uganda’s most beautiful national parks, where roaring rivers, dense rainforests, and the savannah’s wild animals create the backdrop for adventures suitable for both adults and children.
Cambodia in December offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage, impressive archaeological sites and vibrant city life in some of the most pleasant weather conditions. December is in Cambodia’s dry season, which is characterised by long, dry periods and hot temperatures.
Visit the awe-inspiring Angkor complex, located in Siem Reap in northern Cambodia, and Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital to the south, where you can learn about the country’s complex history and cultural diversity. Also head to the city’s lively markets, such as the famous Russian Market and the Central Market, where you’ll find everything from crafts to street food.
If you dream of rounding off the cultural part of your tour with a beach holiday, December is an exceptional time to travel. Look forward to the beautiful sandy beaches on the small paradise island of Koh Rong or in the coastal town of Kep.
Experience the unique attraction of Angkor Wat, lush landscapes along the Mekong River, rare Mekong dolphins at Kratie and the lively capital of Phnom Penh. Extend the tour with a beach holiday.
Feel the essence of Cambodia at the Angkor Wat temple complex and the contrast to the historic capital Phnom Penh by the Mekong River. Combine with a beach holiday or with another tour.
Discover the greatest highlights of Indochina on a classic journey to Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, where UNESCO sites line up like pearls on a string.
The classic tour in which you experience the contrasts from north to south in Vietnam spiced with the charming Siem Reap and the world-class attraction of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Discover the very best of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia – from the serene atmosphere of Luang Prabang, Sapa’s lush rice terraces, and the imperial city of Hue, to vibrant life on the Mekong Delta and the awe-inspiring temple ruins of Angkor.
Look forward to experiencing the wonder of the world, Angkor Wat, enjoy the view over Luang Prabang from Mount Phousi, and fall in love with the charming city of Chiang Mai.
Be enchanted by Hanoi’s ancient streets and sail between the soaring limestone islands in Ha Long Bay. Experience the eighth wonder of the world Angkor Wat, and finish in the charming city of Chiang Mai.
Cuba in December offers a unique blend of cultural richness, historical sights and idyllic beach scenes, all enjoyed during the Caribbean island’s pleasant winter weather.
December is in the dry season, which means the weather is warm and dry, ideal for exploring all that the island has to offer, from city to beach.
In Havana, you can wander through the cobbled streets of Old Havana, which offers colourful buildings, historic squares and a vibrant cultural scene with small art galleries and a lively music scene, where the salsa rhythms fill the air.
If you’re beach bound, Varadero offers some of the most stunning white sandy beaches fringed by crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing.
Go on a fantastic tour of Cuba, offering fascinating history, beautiful scenery, colourful colonial towns and an encounter with happy Cubans, rum, salsa and cigars.
Experience Cuba’s historic capital, Havana, the beautiful Viñales valley, charming Trinidad and round it all off with a beach holiday at the beach paradise Varadero.
Enjoy a taste of Cuba’s exciting history in beautiful Havana, discover Cienfuegos’ charming Old Town, and round off with music and dance in the colonial gem that is Trinidad.
Discover historic Havana, the lush Viñales valley, the music and the joie de vivre in cosy Trinidad, and round it all off on the white sandy beaches of the small idyllic island of Cayo Ensenachos, situated just off Cayo Santa Maria.
Dream of experiencing Cuba’s history, picturesque architecture and Caribbean beaches? Then this tour is the one for you, taking you to Havana, Trinidad and rounding off in the beach paradise, Varadero.
In December, Sri Lanka offers a fascinating mix of cultural attractions, scenic landscapes and warm, tropical weather. The weather is dry on the southern and western coasts and in the highlands, making it ideal for a wide range of fantastic experiences.
December is an excellent time to explore Sri Lanka’s central beauties. The cultural triangle, including the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and the iconic rock fortress of Sigiriya, offers a deep insight into the country’s rich history and heritage. The airy, dry weather is perfect for wandering around these archaeological wonders without the high humidity that characterises other times of the year.
If you dream of sunshine and beach, the charm of the coast awaits you in December. The month is popular among visitors looking for sunny beaches and blue seas – and also if you dream of combining your tour to Sri Lanka with the Maldives.
Discover the highlights of Sri Lanka on a tour through the country’s cultural triangle and picturesque highlands. Conclude your journey with the captivating wildlife in Yala National Park.
From Sri Lanka’s vibrant cultural heritage and lush landscapes to the Maldivian paradise of relaxing islands. One tour showcasing the best of both countries.
Experience the highlights of Sri Lanka from May to October and enjoy glorious seasonal weather in the beach paradise of Trincomalee, with your toes in the sand.
The tour showcases the best of Sri Lanka’s lush highlands and invites you to explore its captivating tea culture, before encountering the wild elephants of Udawalawe.
Be enchanted by Sri Lanka’s picturesque highlands and encounter the wild elephants of Udawalawa. End your tour in the island paradise of the Maldives, with sand between your toes.
Embark on a journey of discovery to Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures, including six UNESCO world heritage sites. Explore the breathtaking highlands and round off your adventure in historic Galle, home to tempting sandy beaches.
Look forward to exploring the historical charms of Galle and getting up close to the spectacular wildlife of Yala National Park. Round off your adventure with leisurely days on the picturesque beaches of Mirissa.
From the soft sands of Bentota to the atmospheric streets of Galle Fort and the idyllic bays of Mirissa. This is a tour focusing on exceptional beach life blended with Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture.
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands, where you’ll create lasting memories together amid breathtaking scenery, captivating wildlife, and gorgeous beaches.
A tour to Vietnam in December offers diversity from north to south during one of the most pleasant times of the year in terms of climate. In December, it is the dry season throughout the country.
In South Vietnam, you can visit Ho Chi Minh City and the nearby Mekong Delta. The weather is warm and sunny here, perfect for exploring the lively markets, lush rice fields and meandering rivers that characterise the region.
Further north, in Hanoi and at Halong Bay, the temperature is slightly cooler than in the south (although still warm), with the possibility of fog. The fog adds a mysterious touch to the landscape, especially in Halong Bay, where thousands of limestone islands rise majestically from the emerald waters. Hanoi, with its mix of French colonial architecture, busy markets and scenic lakes, has a special charm in the cooler season, when you can enjoy the city’s famous street kitchens without breaking a sweat, as in the intense summer heat.
Classic tour from north to south with pretty Hanoi, mini cruise in Ha Long Bay, charming Hoi An, the metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City and the lush Mekong Delta. Extend the tour with a beach holiday.
The classic tour in which you experience the contrasts from north to south in Vietnam spiced with the charming Siem Reap and the world-class attraction of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Look forward to experiencing the soul of Vietnam in the old, beautiful capital of Hanoi and the unique, iconic nature of Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh. You round off your tour in charming Hoi An.
Discover the charm of the Mekong Delta, the peaceful beauty of Lak Lake, and the enchanting cool highlands of Da Lat – all framed by vibrant city life in Ho Chi Minh City and the palm-fringed beaches of Mui Ne.
From the rice terraces of Sapa in the north to the waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south – a tour brimming with UNESCO sites, encounters with locals, imperial history, and a mini cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay.
Discover the greatest highlights of Indochina on a classic journey to Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, where UNESCO sites line up like pearls on a string.
Discover the very best of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia – from the serene atmosphere of Luang Prabang, Sapa’s lush rice terraces, and the imperial city of Hue, to vibrant life on the Mekong Delta and the awe-inspiring temple ruins of Angkor.
Be enchanted by Hanoi’s ancient streets and sail between the soaring limestone islands in Ha Long Bay. Experience the eighth wonder of the world Angkor Wat, and finish in the charming city of Chiang Mai.
Experience the diversity of southern Vietnam, from the vibrant urban energy of Ho Chi Minh City to boat trips along the Mekong Delta, including a visit to our social sustainability project in Vinh Long. Round off your adventure with a relaxing beach holiday on the island of Phu Quoc.
Experience the contrasts of southern Vietnam: from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to tranquil boat trips through the lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta, and a visit to our social sustainability project in Vinh Long. Round off your adventure on the golden beaches of Mui Ne.
December is a great month to visit Costa Rica as the month marks the start of the dry season. You can expect clear skies and less rainfall, making the weather ideal for exploring the country’s natural beauties.
Costa Rica’s famous national parks, such as Tortuguero, Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, are perfect for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in a world of biodiversity. Visitors can experience everything from spotting animal species such as sloths, toucans and colourful frogs to hiking in the rainforest.
After exploring the lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, Costa Rica’s coastline promises relaxation and sunshine, for example at the cosy resort of Playa Sámara, located on the Nicoya Peninsula. The town itself is lively with a fine selection of shops and local restaurants.
Get right up close to Costa Rica’s stunning scenery and wildlife in Tortuguero National Park, at Arenal Volcano and in Monteverde Cloud Forest, and end the tour at Playa Sámara’s beautiful beach.
Discover Costa Rica’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife on a visit to Tortuguero National Park, the Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest, and relax on Manuel Antonio’s beautiful beaches.
Explore Costa Rica’s magical landscapes in your own car, taking in Tortuguero National Park, the iconic Arenal volcano, Monteverde’s cloud forest and Playa Sámara’s idyllic beach.
Experience the highlights of Costa Rica on this self-drive holiday to Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Manuel Antonio’s stunning beaches.
Discover Costa Rica’s unique nature and exciting wildlife at Arenal Volcano and in Monteverde’s Cloud Forest. Round off the tour with relaxation at Manuel Antonio’s stunning beaches.
Enjoy Costa Rica’s unique nature and diverse wildlife in Tortuguero, at Arenal volcano, in Rincón de la Vieja and in Monteverde Cloud Forest. Discover lovely beaches in Sámara and Manuel Antonio.
Look forward to unique unspoilt nature and wildlife in Costa Rica’s national parks with less visitors: Cahuita and Corcovado. Round it all off at Manuel Antonio’s wonderful beaches.
Have you ever considered spending December in shorts and a T-shirt instead of winter clothes? Travelling to Australia in December is a unique experience, as it’s summer in the southern hemisphere. This means warm weather, sunshine and the opportunity for lots of exciting outdoor activities and events that take advantage of the good weather.
Go on an unforgettable drive along the Great Ocean Road, for example, where you’ll experience dramatic coastlines. Escape the summer heat in the Blue Mountains, or enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Australian coast.
If you’re interested in wine, the wine regions of Australia, such as the Barossa Valley near Adelaide and the Yarra Valley near Melbourne, offer world-class wine tours and tastings. These areas also have great local food that complements their wines perfectly.
Discover Australia’s amazing contrasts. From the country’s two largest cities Melbourne and Sydney to the red desert and Uluru. Round off in tropical Cairns and visit the Great Barrier Reef or the world’s oldest rainforest.
The absolute classic Australia tour with city experiences in Sydney, a visit to Uluru in the red heart of Australia, and tropical Cairns with the possibility of experiencing the Great Barrier Reef and the world’s oldest rainforest.
Discover Australia’s 3 largest cities, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. Spice up the tour with excursions and get right up close to nature, culture and history while making the most of the city comforts.
Travel to Australia in your summer holiday. The climate in the northern part of the country is perfect, with warm days, cool nights and low humidity. In Sydney, you may be lucky enough to see some whales!
The grand tour is for those wishing to see it all in one go! It offers a whole host of experiences – and plenty of freedom to put your own mark on the tour to make it just the way you want it.
Look forward to making a stop in fabulous Singapore, before continuing to the amazing contrasts of Australia. Melbourne, Sydney and the red desert await you Down Under, before the tour rounds off in tropical Cairns.
Start out with a couple of days in the vibrant metropolis of Singapore before the tour continues Down Under. Look forward to beautiful Sydney, a visit to Uluru in the red heart of Australia, and tropical Cairns. Option to extend the tour to include a beach holiday or national park experiences.
Come on a self-drive adventure along one of the world’s most scenic stretches of coastline, the Great Ocean Road. Experience the country’s two largest cities, Melbourne and Sydney, the endless red desert with Uluru, and round off with relaxation in tropical surroundings in Cairns.
Discover Sydney and Brisbane followed by a self-drive tour on Australia’s east coast. Look forward to sights such as the world’s largest sand island, K’gari, the scenic Whitsunday Islands National Park and the beach resort of Port Douglas.
Your adventure begins in New Zealand, immersing you in Maori culture, geothermal wonders, mountain lakes, and glaciers, before continuing on to Australia. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant city of Sydney, the striking red outback at Uluru, and finish your journey in tropical Cairns.
No matter where you dream of travelling to in December 2025, adventure and unforgettable travel experiences await you, just around the corner.
TourCompass – From tourist to traveller