December is the most hectic month of the year, so why not make time for an unforgettable winter getaway? Whether you're looking for a laid-back Christmas vacation with the kids or a romantic city break, these destinations make for magical December holidays.
Berlin is famous for its wide variety of Christmas markets where you can sample Germany's festive delicacies, including hot Glühwein and chestnuts roasted over an open fire. Try the Alexanderplatz Christmas Market if you're looking for fairground rides to delight the little ones, or check out the Scandinavian Lucia Christmas Market for something different. Another unmissable festive attraction in Berlin is the Botanical Garden, which is transformed into an enchanted winter wonderland every December, with impressive Christmas light displays and illuminated pathways to guarantee a magical day out for the whole family.
Lapland is Finland's northernmost region, the perfect December destination for families looking for a getaway to Santa's Christmas Grotto. Reindeer, sled dogs, and snowmobiles galore guarantee kids won't get bored, and a range of snowy outdoor activities will be sure to tire them out. Holiday packages commonly include meeting Santa himself, and there's tons to keep parents busy too, including traditional Finnish saunas and a chance to see the famous Northern Lights. If you're looking for a safe bet this December, look no further than a Lapland holiday for a wild Nordic adventure you and the kids will never forget.
Although Japan is an unconventional choice for a Christmas vacation, Tokyo is a wonderful city to visit during the festive season. The Japanese capital is home to many Instagram-worthy illumination events to brighten up even the coldest of months. Light displays not to miss are the Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination and the Roppongi Hills Christmas Illumination. If you're visiting Tokyo at the start of December, be sure to check out the Chichibu Night Festival, one of three major traditional float festivals across Japan. Large, elaborately-decorated floats parade through the streets, and a fireworks display and a variety of food stalls guarantee a great evening.
The city of Las Vegas lights up like nowhere else during the winter, and is the ideal December destination if you're looking to do Christmas in sunny style. There's plenty to keep families and couples busy, including the Cosmopolitan Ice Skating Rink and a range of holiday-themed musicals and ballets, such as the much-beloved 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas'.
