Are you planning for budget-friendly holidays in December? There is nothing wrong with finding affordable places to visit in December. After all, December is one of the most expensive months of the travel calendar. Finding the best places to travel in December on a budget is not that difficult. You just have to take a proactive approach when deciding what you expect from your ideal holiday destination.
After finalising your itinerary, make sure the places you have shortlisted align with your budget. Being tourist-friendly is one factor to consider when looking for budget-friendly places to travel in December. There’s no point in choosing a place that is unsafe for tourists or has no tourist landmarks. You will end up in a place which is not worth the money or effort.
In this blog, we have handpicked some of the cheap holiday destinations in December. Learn more about these destinations that will help you choose your travel spot. So, scroll down and take a look at these budget-friendly destinations.
12 Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget
Need assistance in finding cheap places to travel in December? We are here to help you with that. In this blog, we have shortlisted the 12 most affordable places to visit in December. Read more to find out and choose your next holiday destination.
| Destination | Temperature in December | Flight Duration from the UK |
| Thessaloniki, Greece | 3°C to 10°C | Around 3 to 4 hours |
| Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | 24°C to 30°C | Around 13 to 14 hours |
| Prague, Czech Republic | -1°C to 4°C | Around 2 hours |
| Gran Canaria, Spain | 16°C to 22°C | Around 4 to 5 hours |
| Himachal Pradesh, India | 2°C to 16°C | Around 10 to 12 hours |
| Corozal, Belize | 21°C to 29°C | Around 17 to 18 hours |
| Kandy, Sri Lanka | 20°C to 27°C | Around 12 to 13 hours |
| Istanbul, Turkey | 5°C to 11°C | Around 3 to 4 hours |
| Fafe, Portugal | 4.8°C to 11.5°C | Around 7 to 8 hours |
| Negril, Jamaica | 23°C to 28°C | Around 10 to 12 hours |
| Saranda, Albania | 7°C to 15°C | Around 7 to 8 hours |
| Nha Trang, Vietnam | 23°C to 28°C | Around 18 to 27 hours |
1- Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki is one of the most affordable places to visit in December if you are planning your holidays in Greece. December is colder than the usual peak tourist months, with fewer crowds, making budget-friendly options more feasible. The major tourist landmarks are decorated in festive lights and look quite fascinating, especially around Christmas time.
You must look for events such as concerts, theatre performances, Christmas markets, exhibitions, and more to make your holidays more enjoyable. Do not hesitate to look for standard travel options in December when you are in Thessaloniki, as prices are reduced. You can find easy and affordable options for eateries and explore some city highlights as well.
5 Best Places to Visit in Thessaloniki
- White Tower
- Rotunda of Galerius
- Aristotelous Square
- Ano Poli (Upper Town)
- Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
5 Things to Do in Thessaloniki
- Visit the White Tower for panoramic city views.
- Explore the ancient Rotunda of Galerius.
- Stroll through the vibrant Aristotelous Square.
- Wander the historic streets of Ano Poli.
- Discover artefacts at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.
Temperature of Thessaloniki in December
In December, Thessaloniki typically experiences maximum temperatures around 10°C and minimum temperatures around 3°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Thessaloniki
The approximate flight duration from the UK to Thessaloniki is about 3 to 4 hours.
2- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is one of the cheap holiday destinations to visit in December if you are on a budget, with the fun of winter sun. You can enjoy your holidays in many popular places in the city without worrying about them being expensive. The KL Towers, Batu Caves, Petronas Twin Towers, and many other areas are highly recommended places to explore. Other than that, December is one of the best months to travel to Kuala Lumpur, as Christmas markets, concerts, festive decorations, and other holiday highlights enhance the city’s atmosphere.
Genting Winter Wonderland, Sparkling Christmas, Brick-Tacular Holidays, The Sound of Christmas and others are some fun events to attend in Kuala Lumpur during Christmas. From an entertainment standpoint, you have many options to explore. The night markets, clubs, and bars are some of the best places to travel in December on a budget. Don’t miss the experience of the vibrant nightlife and shop in the prominent spots of the city.
5 Best Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur
- Petronas Twin Towers
- Batu Caves
- KL Tower
- Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
- Central Market
5 Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur
- Marvel at the Petronas Twin Towers.
- Explore the Batu Caves.
- Enjoy the view from KL Tower.
- Visit the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.
- Shop at Central Market.
Temperature of Kuala Lumpur in December
The temperature of Kuala Lumpur in December can range between a maximum of 30°C and a minimum of 24°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Kuala Lumpur
It would take around 13 to 14 hours to fly from the UK to Kuala Lumpur.
3- Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most affordable places to visit in December for enjoying a wonderful vacation. Extreme winter makes flights and hotel accommodations cheaper during this time of the year. Just because it is cold in Prague does not mean there is nothing fun about this destination. You still have plenty of options to consider during your holidays. Other than that, the wines and traditional Czech food are a must to try while wandering around.
The city has Gothic architecture, which is a must to explore during your stay. You must visit some of the landmark sites when in Prague. Old Town Square, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and more are must-see attractions. Also, don’t forget to visit the Prague Christmas market or attend the seasonal performances and concerts to make your trip more memorable.
5 Best Places to Visit in Prague
- Charles Bridge
- Prague Castle
- Old Town Square
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- The Astronomical Clock
5 Things to Do in Prague
- Walk across the historic Charles Bridge.
- Explore the vast Prague Castle complex.
- Admire the architecture in Old Town Square.
- Visit the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral.
- Watch the show at the Astronomical Clock.
Temperature of Prague in December
Prague’s temperature is frigid in December and ranges from a minimum of -1°C to a maximum of 4°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Prague
Travelling from the UK to Prague via flight will only take about 2 hours.
4- Gran Canaria, Spain
Are you a budget traveller and looking for affordable places to visit in December? Gran Canaria is one of the cheapest island destinations to visit in December, where you can enjoy and explore without expanding your budget. Not only is it a cheap holiday destination to visit in December, but you also get pleasant weather, where you can relax in the cosy environment and chill under the winter sun. The natural landscapes look absolutely stunning, and there are many tourist attractions to explore. Playa de Las Canteras, Playa Taurito, Roque Nublo, and more are a must-visit when you are in Gran Canaria.
Relaxing on the beach, enjoying water sports, hiking, and more are some of the fun things you can do on this cheap island in December. There are many affordable places to travel in December rather than just sitting somewhere cosy. You can go for camel rides in Camel Maspalomas, explore Christmas markets, visit museums, and more to utilise your time in this cheap holiday destination in December.
5 Best Places to Visit in Gran Canaria
- Maspalomas Dunes
- Puerto de Mogán
- Roque Nublo
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Playa del Inglés
5 Things to Do in Gran Canaria
- Walk through the stunning Maspalomas Dunes.
- Explore the charming Puerto de Mogán.
- Hike to the iconic Roque Nublo.
- Discover the vibrant city of Las Palmas.
- Enjoy the nightlife at Playa del Inglés.
Temperature of Gran Canaria in December
Gran Canaria experiences temperature variations in December around a maximum of 22°C and a minimum of 16°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Gran Canaria
Flying from the UK to Gran Canaria will take approximately 4 to 5 hours.
5- Himachal Pradesh, India
Himachal Pradesh is a great hill station situated in the North of India and is a perfect holiday destination to be visited at any time of year. It is also one of the cheap holiday destinations to visit in December. The miles-long snow-covered landscape is the highlight of this destination. The mighty valleys and the snow-covered coniferous forest make the place very enchanting. December brings winter festivals and Christmas carnivals, where you can seek pleasure in the adorable views.
There are many popular treks here, and people from all over the world love to visit, especially to partake in adventurous activities like paragliding, parasailing, skiing, snowboarding, and more. Manali and Shimla are two popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh and are tourist favourites. Tourists also visit here for camping, off-roading, hiking, fishing, and more. When you are in Himachal Pradesh, you must try some of the local dishes to gain a taste of the local gastronomy.
5 Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
- Shimla
- Manali
- Dharamshala
- Kasauli
- Dalhousie
5 Things to Do in Himachal Pradesh
- Walk through the stunning Maspalomas Dunes.
- Explore the charming Puerto de Mogán.
- Hike to the iconic Roque Nublo.
- Discover the vibrant city of Las Palmas.
- Enjoy the nightlife at Playa del Inglés.
Temperature of Himachal Pradesh in December
2°C is the minimum and 16°C is the maximum expected temperature of Himachal Pradesh in December.
Flight duration from the UK to Himachal Pradesh
10 to 12 hours is the expected duration to fly from the UK to Himachal Pradesh.
6- Corozal, Belize
Corozal has perfect weather to explore outdoor adventures and is one of the best places to travel in December on a budget. The weather is warm and cosy, ideal for spending days on the coastal beaches. Apart from that, the ancient ruins of Cerros Archaeological Reserve and Santa Rita ruins are popular tourist attraction sites. You can also take a boat ride to visit there.
This is a perfect winter escape where you can relax and enjoy walking along the coast. The nights will be fantastic in the karaoke night restaurants where you can eat, chill, and enjoy with your mates. Overall, you will have a delightful experience here while exploring some of the affordable places to visit in December. The local culture of Corozal makes the holidays more satisfying.
5 Best Places to Visit in Corozal
- Cerros Archaeological Reserve
- Santa Rita Corozal
- Shipstern Nature Reserve
- Corozal Bay
- Sarteneja Village
5 Things to Do in Corozal
- Explore the ancient ruins at Cerros Archaeological Reserve.
- Visit the historic Santa Rita Mayan ruins.
- Discover wildlife at Shipstern Nature Reserve.
- Enjoy water activities in Corozal Bay.
- Experience the local culture in Sarteneja Village.
Temperature of Corozal in December
Corozal typically experiences maximum temperatures around 29°C and minimum temperatures around 21°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Corozal
The approximate flight duration from the UK to Corozal is about 17 to 18 hours.
7- Kandy, Sri Lanka
Kandy is one of the few cheap holiday places to visit in Sri Lanka during the month of December. The time is perfect to enjoy a fun holiday experience, where you will love the natural scenery of tea plantations and forested mountains. Besides being known as the cultural capital of the Sinhalese people, it is also a cheap December holiday destination. Also, you will see the influence of Buddhist culture in many elements of the city. The Temple of the Tooth is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must to explore. This sacred Buddhist temple is perfect for finding peaceful vibes.
Overall, it is a peaceful holiday destination where you can indulge your interest in many plantations like tea, spices, and rubber, and also discover the ancient dance style known as the Kandyan dance and the Ayurvedic village. Holidays in Kandy are more about learning local history and traditions than just chilling at an affordable rate.
5 Best Places to Visit in Kandy
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya
- Kandy Lake
- Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
- Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
5 Things to Do in Kandy
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
- Take a scenic walk around Kandy Lake.
- Explore the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary.
- Hike up to the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue.
Temperature of Kandy in December
Maximum 27°C and minimum 20°C are the expected temperatures of Kandy in December.
Flight duration from the UK to Kandy
The flight from the UK to Kandy takes about 12 to 13 hours to reach.
8- Istanbul, Turkey
December is an ideal month to spend a vacation in Turkey, making Istanbul one of the budget-friendly places to travel in December. The crowds are fewer and the prices are quite reasonable for you to enjoy your holidays. Explore some of the prominent landmarks of Istanbul, like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and many more, allowing you to witness the stunning architecture while learning about their history.
If you are planning on travelling at the end of the month, then you should enjoy the Christmas lights, holiday markets, and local seasonal food while wandering the city. In addition, ice rinks are pretty popular among tourists, and it is a fun activity to try rather than just roaming around. Hammam will be a relaxing experience to consider when you are in Istanbul for the holidays, as this ancient Turkish bathing system is popular among tourists.
5 Best Places to Visit in Istanbul
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapi Palace
- Blue Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
- Basilica Cistern
5 Things to Do in Istanbul
- Visit the historic Hagia Sophia.
- Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace.
- Admire the architecture of the Blue Mosque.
- Shop at the bustling Grand Bazaar.
- Discover the underground Basilica Cistern.
Temperature of Istanbul in December
The expected temperatures of Istanbul in December are a minimum of 5°C and a maximum of 11°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Istanbul
It would take flight 3 to 4 hours approximately to reach from the UK to Istanbul.
9- Fafe, Portugal
Fafe is one of the best and affordable places to travel in December, while you are travelling on a budget. The city has a cosy setting and an abundance of natural landscapes to look forward to during your holidays. This winter getaway place is popular for its culture and holiday atmosphere. The festive cheer makes it look more interesting than usual. The Christmas markets and many cultural performances at Teatro Cinema de Fafe are the highlights of this holiday season.
Holidays in Fafe are magical and allow you to explore many cheap places to travel in December. The unique Casa do Penedo (Stone House), the serene Barragem da Queimadela reservoir, and the motorsport-focused Museu do Rali are the highlights of Fafe. Other than that, the local cuisine will win your hearts with its tempting flavours and seasonal touch.
5 Best Places to Visit in Fafe
- Casa de Penedo
- Barragem da Queimadela
- Fratelli Aquapark
- Teatro Cinema de Fafe
- Museu Do Rali, Fafe A Catedral
5 Things to Do in Fafe
- Visit the unique Casa de Penedo.
- Relax by the Barragem da Queimadela.
- Enjoy the water rides at Fratelli Aquapark.
- Watch a performance at Teatro Cinema de Fafe.
- Explore the history at Museu Do Rali.
Temperature of Fafe in December
The temperatures of Fafe in December are around a maximum of 11.5°C and a minimum of 4.8°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Fafe
The approximate flight duration from the UK to Fafe is about 7 to 8 hours, including transfers.
10- Negril, Jamaica
When looking for the best places to travel in December on a budget, Negril is worth considering. You can find affordable holiday packages, hotel deals, resorts, and more within your budget in this cheap island destination. The weather is usually warm and pleasant in December, making beach exploration possible. Negril has pristine white sand beaches with contrasting turquoise water, serving as an ideal place to relax. You can also go swimming and snorkelling in the warm water.
Rick’s Café is a popular tourist destination where you can watch the endearing sunset. If you are up for an adventure, you should go to the Negril Cliffs and join the cliff divers. During the nights, taking a tour of catamaran cruises and enjoying live music at Jungle Night Club will be quite entertaining. Apart from entertainment, Negril has quite a variety of delicious Jamaican food. There are many beach bars and restaurants serving popular Jamaican dishes like grilled lobster, jerk chicken, saltfish, curried goat, and more.
5 Best Places to Visit in Negril
- Seven Mile Beach
- Rick's Café
- Negril Cliffs
- Barney's Flower & Hummingbird Garden
- Blue Hole Mineral Spring
5 Things to Do in Negril
- Relax on the pristine Seven Mile Beach.
- Watch cliff divers at Rick's Café.
- Explore the scenic Negril Cliffs.
- Visit Barney's Flower & Hummingbird Garden.
- Swim in the Blue Hole Mineral Spring.
Temperature of Negril in December
The maximum temperature of Negril is 28°C and the minimum temperature is 23°C approximately in December.
Flight duration from the UK to Negril
The flight duration from the UK to Negril is expected to be 10 to 12 hours.
11- Saranda, Albania
Saranda is a cheap holiday destination in December where you can have lots of fun. The natural scenery around the promenade looks very charming, especially during sunsets. The destination has a unique blend of cultural experiences and lots of natural beauty. The mild weather in December makes it an ideal place to enjoy various outdoor activities on a budget.
You must visit some of the iconic tourist attractions, such as the Blue Eye spring, the ancient ruins of Butrint National Park, the Monastery of 40 Saints, Lekursi Castle, and more. The town’s rich history is well preserved in its ancient ruins, Lekursi Castle, and other tourist attractions. Moving on, Christmas markets are the main fun and inexpensive places to travel in December. You should go to the ice rink for ice skating and admire the decorations.
5 Things to Do in Saranda
- Visit the mesmerising Blue Eye spring.
- Explore the ancient ruins at Butrint National Park.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Lekursi Castle.
- Discover the history at the Monastery of 40 Saints.
- Stroll along the scenic Saranda Embankment.
5 Things to Do in Negril
- Relax on the pristine Seven Mile Beach.
- Watch cliff divers at Rick's Café.
- Explore the scenic Negril Cliffs.
- Visit Barney's Flower & Hummingbird Garden.
- Swim in the Blue Hole Mineral Spring.
Temperature of Saranda in December
A minimum of 7°C and a maximum of 15°C is the temperature of Saranda in December.
Flight duration from the UK to Saranda
Reaching from the UK to Saranda will take approximately 7 to 8 hours, including transfers.
12- Nha Trang, Vietnam
Nha Trang is one of the most affordable places to visit in December to enjoy the holidays outdoors. This cheap holiday destination in December is popular for various reasons, and being ideal for beach explorations is one. There are many attractions in Nha Trang, offering lots of fun while being affordable. The beaches have the most romantic and pleasant atmosphere, which looks very stunning.
Ba Ho Waterfall, Nha Trang Water Puppet Theatre, Alexandre Yersin Museum, and more are some highly recommended attractions to consider visiting when you are here. The nightlife of Nha Trang is very vibrant, and you will find many affordable places to visit in December. The Sailing Club, Pool Pub, ZIMA Club, and other bars and restaurants offer a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
5 Best Places to Visit in Nha Trang
- VinWonders Nha Trang
- Po Nagar Cham Towers
- Long Son Pagoda
- Hon Mun Island
- Ba Ho Waterfall
5 Things to Do in Nha Trang
- Enjoy the rides and attractions at VinWonders Nha Trang.
- Explore the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers.
- Visit the serene Long Son Pagoda.
- Go snorkelling or diving at Hon Mun Island.
- Trek to the beautiful Ba Ho Waterfall.
Temperature of Nha Trang in December
In December, Nha Trang typically experiences maximum temperatures around 28°C and minimum temperatures around 23°C.
Flight duration from the UK to Nha Trang
The flight time from the UK to Nha Trang takes around 18 hours to 27 hours.
Conclusion
Budget travellers, start planning your holiday this December. As December approaches, your wanderlust spirit looks forward to exploring new horizons but within a limited budget. From winter chill to sun-kissed paradises, there is a treasure trove of destinations awaiting you to discover. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly mainland destinations or cheap islands to visit in December, you get both options. Pick the one that aligns well with your travel preferences.
Get your flight booked to your favourite budget-friendly December destination. December is a festive season, so you need to book early to bag great deals and discounts, allowing you to enjoy a wonderful vacation in one of the cheap holiday destinations.
FAQs
Name some of the cheapest holiday destinations to visit in December?
Some of the cheapest holiday destinations to visit in December are Kandy, Himachal Pradesh, Nha Trang and many more.
Where is the most affordable holiday destination to enjoy Christmas?
Some of the most affordable holiday destinations to enjoy Christmas are Prague, Fafe, Thessaloniki, Saranda and many more.
Which is the best country to visit in December for vacation?
Some of the best countries to visit in December for vacation are Malaysia, Spain, Turkey, Jamaica and many more.
