Where should you travel for Christmas 2026?
We have a fantastic selection of Christmas holiday destinations, where you can celebrate the festive season under sunnier skies, experience different Christmas traditions, or even create brand new ones with your loved ones.
Whether you’re planning to travel in the run-up to Christmas, over the holiday itself, or around New Year, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for incredible destinations to visit in December right here.
Where is it warm during Christmas?
Keen to swap the winter chill for sun-filled days and blue skies? Many of our destinations offer dry, sunny weather in December, giving you the best of both worlds: unforgettable experiences and total relaxation in beautiful warmth.
Here’s a selection of destinations with wonderful weather at Christmas:
- Thailand: December is peak season, with it being the dry season in most regions, ensuring plenty of sunshine
- Australia: High summer brings hot temperatures and Christmas spirit to Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane
- Costa Rica: Summer in December – ideal for both nature lovers and beachgoers
- Vietnam: A dry and pleasant climate, perfect for both culture and coastline adventures
- South Africa: Summer in Cape Town, exploring the winelands, dramatic mountain landscapes, and warm sunny days
- Sri Lanka & the Maldives: Sunny, tropical weather, perfect for blending culture with paradise beaches
- Mexico: Dry season and delightful weather for exploring both cultural heritage and coastal experiences
- New Zealand: Summer vibes and breathtaking natural beauty on both the North and South Islands
- USA: Warm temperatures in Florida and Southern California. Or combine your visit with winter chill and the Christmas atmosphere in New York.
- Uganda: The start of the dry season, ideal for safari holidays and gorilla tracking
Is it expensive to travel over Christmas and New Year?
Christmas and New Year are popular times to travel, and this is reflected in both demand and prices. However, with the right planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Below, you’ll find our recommendations for touring during the Christmas holidays:
- Book well in advance. Christmas is one of the most popular times of the year to travel, and flights and hotels sell out quickly.
- Consider travelling just before or after Christmas Day.
- Speak to our travel specialists for advice on the best time to travel and the perfect destination for you.
We’ll help you find your ideal Christmas holiday.
Bonus: 5 alternative destinations for Christmas
If you’re open to journeying to places that don’t necessarily offer the ‘best’ weather over Christmas, there are plenty of enticing options.
By travelling to destinations that are less popular over Christmas and New Year due to the weather, you help ensure local communities receive a more balanced income throughout the year. Often, the quieter season means fewer visitors, more space at attractions and, in many cases, lower prices too.
Here are five alternative destinations for your Christmas getaway.
- Tanzania/Kenya: A beautiful season, with lush, green landscapes
- Brazil: The Iguazú Falls are at their most impressive, with water levels at their highest
- Bali: Gorgeous, vibrant landscapes during the rainy season, but also chances of sunshine and warm days
- Madagascar: Wild orchids and inquisitive chameleons await
- Japan: Soak up a unique festive atmosphere with crisp winter days – perfect for a visit to an onsen
These destinations are perfect for those who aren’t after “the best weather”, but still dream of spending Christmas enjoying truly unique experiences.
Book your Christmas holiday 2026 with TourCompass
Make Christmas 2026 truly special and head off to explore the world.
Whether you long to spend Christmas beneath palm trees, surrounded by tranquil natural beauty, or in a bustling city adorned with shimmering lights and local festivities, we have a tour to suit your wishes. All our tours are package holidays including flights, accommodation, and memorable experiences, so all you need to do is pack your suitcase to be ready for your Christmas break.
Our travel specialists are ready to help you. Get in touch with us today and let us find the perfect Christmas holiday for you.
It’s reassuring to explore the world with TourCompass – we’re with you all the way!
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