Where to go on holiday in December

Tis’ the season when old Jack Frost is nipping at your nose. Whether you want to embrace a cold wintery wonderland, or escape to somewhere tropical, the choice is yours: there are destinations aplenty to appease your wanderlust this time of year, but here we pick a modest three to get you on your merry way.

See our where to go, when guide for destination recommendations throughout the year.

Istanbul

Turkey is a fantastic choice at this time of year. The wintry landscapes of Cappodocia  are magical, and if you’re looking for a city to explore, Istanbul is perfect. With grand palaces, temples, mosques, restaurants, and museums it’s a beautiful city to unpack in the quieter month of December.

Saltzburg

From late November to December Salzburg’s lights will be lit, there’ll be incense in the air, choral singing from the cathedral steps, and stunning nativity scenes are annotated with the warming sounds of brass and traditional wind instruments. Undoubtedly one of Europe’s loveliest cities, Salzburg is a Baroque masterpiece set against an operatic backdrop of mountains, forests and rivers. The birthplace of Mozart, it boasts a rich history of music and art. The Christmas market is a particular highlight.

Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand is during the long sunny spell between November and March, avoiding the rainy season and the more intense heat of April and May. A land of breathtaking natural beauty, captivating Buddhist monuments, tantalising cuisine and the warmest of welcoming smiles. Step outside the energy and vibrance of the capital Bangkok and you’ll find the mountainous landscape of the north, whilst to the south a world of tempting gastronomy, tropical beaches, and picture perfect seascapes awaits.