Unwrap the Magic: 7 Winter Wonders to Explore in December

December is a magical month, especially for winter travel. From sparkling holiday lights to snow-covered landscapes, the world transforms into a winter wonderland. Whether you love exploring festive Christmas markets, skiing in snowy mountain resorts, or relaxing in cozy villages, there’s a perfect winter escape for everyone. Here are the top winter destinations to visit in December that promise unforgettable experiences and seasonal charm.

1. **Vienna, Austria: A Christmas Fairy Tale**

**Why Visit**: Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The city is famous for its beautiful Christmas markets, festive lights, and grand Imperial architecture.

**Must-Do Activities**: Stroll through the famous Christkindlmarkt, sip mulled wine (Gluhwein), and try traditional pastries like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel. Ice skating in front of the Vienna City Hall is a must!

**Best Time to Visit**: December is perfect for the holiday festivities. Visit early in the month for fewer crowds.

**Packing Tips**: Pack a warm, stylish coat and scarves to blend in with the fashionable locals. Don’t forget your gloves and boots for ice skating!

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in Vienna:**

1. **Vienna Christmas Markets & Classic Viennese Tour** – A combination of Vienna’s famous Christmas markets and a tour of the city’s Imperial landmarks.

2. **Private Ice Skating at City Hall with Mulled Wine** – Enjoy the iconic outdoor rink at Vienna’s City Hall with a guided tour followed by a cozy mulled wine tasting.

3. **Vienna Sightseeing & Christmas Tour with Wine Tasting** – Explore Vienna’s Christmas markets and landmarks, ending with a wine tasting in a cozy local wine cellar.

2. **Rovaniemi, Finland: The Official Hometown of Santa Claus**

**Why Visit**: Located on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is the ultimate winter destination for those who want to experience the magic of Christmas. It’s known as the official hometown of Santa Claus and is a winter wonderland for both families and solo travelers.

**Must-Do Activities**: Meet Santa Claus at the Santa Claus Village, go on a husky safari, try snowmobiling, and explore the Arktikum Museum. You can also catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

**Best Time to Visit**: December, when the snow is deep, and the holiday magic is in full swing.

**Packing Tips**: Bring thermal layers, waterproof boots, a good quality winter coat, and accessories like hats and mittens for the extreme cold.

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in Rovaniemi:**

1. **Husky Safari & Santa Claus Village Tour** – Experience the thrill of dog sledding through snowy forests and visit the Santa Claus Village.

2. **Northern Lights Chase by Snowmobile** – A guided snowmobile tour to hunt for the Northern Lights, an unforgettable Arctic adventure.

3. **Reindeer Sleigh Ride & Arctic Circle Crossing Tour** – A magical sleigh ride through the snowy wilderness, crossing the Arctic Circle, with a visit to the Santa Claus Village.

3. **Zermatt, Switzerland: Skiing & Alpine Magic**

**Why Visit**: Zermatt, nestled at the base of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain, is a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In December, it becomes a perfect snowy retreat for skiing, snowboarding, and scenic mountain views.

**Must-Do Activities**: Ski or snowboard on world-class slopes, enjoy the winter hiking trails, and take a breathtaking Gornergrat Railway ride for panoramic views of the Alps. Afterward, unwind in a luxurious chalet with Swiss fondue and hot chocolate.

**Best Time to Visit**: Early December offers fewer crowds and a true winter escape before the holiday rush.

**Packing Tips**: Ski gear (if you plan to hit the slopes) and a warm jacket with plenty of layers. Don’t forget a pair of ski goggles and winter hiking boots.

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in Zermatt:**

1. **Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Ski Day Trip** – A full-day skiing experience at the highest cable car station in Europe with incredible views of the Matterhorn.

2. **Zermatt Snowshoeing & Fondue Experience** – Explore the snowy trails of Zermatt on snowshoes, followed by a cozy fondue meal at a mountain hut.

3. **Gornergrat Railway & Winter Hiking Tour** – Take a scenic ride on the Gornergrat Railway and enjoy a guided winter hike in the Alps with stunning views.

4. **Prague, Czech Republic: A Fairytale Christmas**

**Why Visit**: Prague, with its medieval streets, historic castles, and charming atmosphere, looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale during the winter season. The Christmas markets are some of the most picturesque in Europe.

**Must-Do Activities**: Visit the Old Town Square Christmas Market, enjoy the Prague Castle lit up with festive lights, and warm up with traditional Czech holiday treats like Trdelnik (a sweet pastry) and svarene vino (hot mulled wine).

**Best Time to Visit**: December is ideal, especially for the Christmas markets and the festive atmosphere.

**Packing Tips**: Warm layers, a sturdy coat, scarves, and boots for walking on cobblestone streets. Don’t forget your camera for those Instagram-worthy shots!

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in Prague:**

1. **Prague Christmas Market Tour with Traditional Czech Dinner** – Visit Prague’s best Christmas markets with a guide, and enjoy a delicious traditional dinner in a local restaurant.

2. **Prague Castle & Old Town Walking Tour** – A guided tour of the city’s highlights, including the Prague Castle and the Old Town Square Christmas Market.

3. **Prague Private Christmas Walking Tour with Hot Drinks** – A private tour of the Christmas markets and the city’s festive lights, including warm drinks to keep you cozy.

5. **Whistler, Canada: A Winter Sports Paradise**

**Why Visit**: Whistler, a world-renowned ski resort in British Columbia, is perfect for those seeking a winter wonderland filled with outdoor adventures and luxury resorts. In December, it’s a paradise for snow lovers.

**Must-Do Activities**: Ski and snowboard on world-class slopes, go snowshoeing or snowmobiling, and relax in the luxury spas. For those looking for an après-ski experience, Whistler’s vibrant village offers cozy restaurants and pubs with hot drinks and delicious meals.

**Best Time to Visit**: Early December for the best snow conditions and fewer crowds.

**Packing Tips**: Ski gear, warm and waterproof clothing, and snow boots for exploring the village.

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in Whistler:**

1. **Whistler Ski & Snowboard Day Tour** – A guided skiing experience on Whistler’s world-famous slopes, including tips from professional instructors.

2. **Whistler Snowmobiling Adventure** – A thrilling snowmobile tour through Whistler’s snowy forests and mountains, offering great photo opportunities.

3. **Whistler Winter Wildlife Tour** – A guided wildlife tour where you may spot elk, wolves, and other animals in their natural winter habitats.

6. **Lapland, Sweden: Northern Lights & Ice Hotels**

**Why Visit**: Lapland, located in northern Sweden, is one of the best places in the world to witness the stunning Northern Lights. The destination is also known for its unique ice hotels and winter activities.

**Must-Do Activities**: Stay at the famous Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, go on a reindeer sledding adventure, and take part in a snowmobile safari to explore the snowy landscape. Don’t forget to enjoy a cozy sauna experience after a day in the cold.

**Best Time to Visit**: December, when the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are high, and the snow is pristine.

**Packing Tips**: Pack layers for extreme cold, including thermal underwear, insulated gloves, hats, and a good-quality winter jacket.

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in Lapland:**

1. **Reindeer Sledding & Northern Lights Hunt** – A magical evening spent sledding with reindeer and hunting for the Northern Lights under the Arctic skies.

2. **Icehotel & Northern Lights Safari** – A visit to the Icehotel with an added guided tour of the wilderness to search for the stunning Northern Lights.

3. **Snowmobile Adventure & Arctic Wilderness Tour** – Explore the frozen beauty of Lapland on a thrilling snowmobile ride, followed by a cozy wilderness lunch.

7. **New York City, USA: A Classic Winter Destination**

**Why Visit**: NYC is iconic in the winter, with its famous ice skating rinks, festive displays, and holiday cheer. From Rockefeller Center to Central Park, the city comes alive with twinkling lights and festive activities.

**Must-Do Activities**: Skate at Rockefeller Center, explore the Holiday Markets at Union Square, and see the Macy’s Christmas Windows. Don’t miss the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and take a winter stroll through Central Park covered in snow.

**Best Time to Visit**: Late November through December, when the city is decked out for the holidays.

**Packing Tips**: A warm winter coat, comfortable shoes for walking, and festive accessories like hats and scarves to blend in with the NYC winter style.

**Top-Rated Guided Tours in NYC:**

1. **New York City Christmas Holiday Lights & Sights Tour**

   **Overview**: Explore the magical holiday lights of New York City during the festive season. This guided tour takes you through iconic locations like Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Displays, and Dyker Heights in Brooklyn, famous for its extravagant Christmas light displays.

   **Why It’s Great**: It’s perfect for those who want to see the best of NYC’s Christmas decorations, experience the lively atmosphere of NYC during the holidays, and avoid the hassle of navigating crowded areas.

   **Highlights**: 

     – Visit Rockefeller Center and see the massive Christmas tree

     – Experience the dazzling Christmas lights in Dyker Heights

     – Stroll through festive markets and neighborhoods, like Fifth Avenue and Central Park.

2. **Private NYC Holiday Shopping & Christmas Market Tour**

   **Overview**: This private guided tour is ideal for holiday shoppers looking to enjoy a customized experience. Your guide will take you through Manhattan’s holiday markets, such as those at Union Square and Columbus Circle, and lead you to some of the best spots for finding unique gifts.

   **Why It’s Great**: It’s perfect for those looking for a more personalized experience, offering flexibility with shopping, sightseeing, and dining.

   **Highlights**:

     – Explore NYC’s holiday shopping destinations

     – Stop by the Union Square Christmas Market

     – Visit high-end department stores like Macy’s or Saks Fifth Avenue for special seasonal displays and festive window shopping.

3. **Private New York City Holiday Lights Tour by Limo**

   **Overview**: For an extra-special experience, this private tour takes you through the city’s most famous holiday light displays from the comfort of a luxurious limousine. It’s a cozy and festive way to see the city’s most iconic holiday decorations, perfect for families, groups, or couples.

   **Why It’s Great**: Ideal for those who want a more intimate and luxurious experience, this tour allows you to enjoy the Christmas lights in comfort, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.