low season december travel

Traveling Without a Passport

Your Ultimate Off-Season Travel Calendar

Everybody loves a summer holiday, but more often than not, traveling during the peak tourist season can be a bit of a drag. Here’s our guide to your off-season gems to discover.

Summer may be the best time to travel when it comes to the weather, especially in Europe. However… the flights you want to book are overpriced, the places you want to stay at are more expensive, and the attractions you want to visit are flooded with tourists. In the off-season, you don’t have to worry about dealing with any of those downsides. Sure, you won’t get the best weather, but booking your trip in the low season comes with a bevy of benefits: cheaper airfare, wallet-friendly hotel rates, and fewer crowds.

If you’re ready to jump on the off-peak travel bandwagon, the only question left to answer is: where should I go in the off-season? That’s where this guide comes in! We’ve curated a list of some of the most popular travel destinations and their corresponding low-season periods so you can start planning your off-peak adventure for 2023 and beyond!

• North America
• South America

See Also: Iceland Off-Season: Your Complete Guide

For the most part, Europe’s off-season runs between November and March .

Of course, temperatures and weather conditions will vary by region; if you visit in, say, December, you may have to contend with freezing temperatures and snow flurries in Northern Europe, while Mediterranean countries like Greece offer a fair amount of sunshine and relatively mild temperatures. 

No matter what destinations you choose to visit (aside from ski resorts), you’re guaranteed to find fewer crowds and bargain-worthy prices when traveling to Europe during the winter months.

Here are a few great cities, countries, and regions to choose from for off-season travel — those places where you’ll get the most bang for your buck and have a fantastic overall experience:

• All of the continent’s most popular and iconic cities (e.g., Venice, Paris, Rome, Barcelona, or Amsterdam)
• Finnish Lapland

See Also: What to do in Greece in December (Updated 2022)

Southeast Asia – June to October

As you can imagine, Southeast Asia plays host to several climates to match its incredibly diverse landscapes. Many travelers avoid the off-season in this region completely, but — with a little extra planning and preparation — it can actually be a fantastic time to travel here.

Just remember: the off-season months typically coincide with the rainy season. Monsoon rains usually occur between June and October in most parts of Southeast Asia, but weather patterns can vary drastically depending on the destination. 

During this time, your trip can be disrupted by torrential downpours, or you might get lucky with sunshine and short-lived periods of rain — it’s a chance you take traveling during the low season!

Here are the off-season months for some of Southeast Asia’s top hotspots:

• Bali – April to June
• Bangkok and Northern Thailand – May to October
• Thai Islands (Gulf of Thailand) – Gulf of Thailand October to December and the Andaman Sea June to October
• Vietnam – May to September
• Cambodia – July to September

Japan / China / Taiwan – November to March

The best time to escape the crowds in China , Japan , and Taiwan is during the winter months, as long as you’re not traveling to wintry destinations or ski towns like Harbin and Hokkaido. As these destinations are pretty far north, it can get quite cold, however, so for trips to Tokyo, Seoul, or Beijing, your best bet is to dress for the occasion and check the weather reports thoroughly.

India & Sri Lanka – May to August/September

India and Sri Lanka experience varied weather conditions, with certain regions (such as Goa, for example) being dominated by rainfall at any given time of the year. 

With the exception of tropical states like Florida and Hawaii, the low season in Canada and the USA falls between the winter months of November and March/April. 

Los Angeles, Vancouver, and other West Coast destinations offer milder temperatures throughout this season, while cities in the northeast (New York, Toronto, Boston) transform into real-life winter wonderlands.

Prices skyrocket during winter holidays and school holiday periods, so it’s best to avoid Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Spring Break if you don’t want to deal with inflated hotel rates and crowded attractions.

In Mexico and the Caribbean , the off-season period begins shortly after Easter and lasts until the middle of December, just before the holiday season is in full swing.

• United States – November to March
• Hawaii – April to early June and September to mid-December
• Canada – November to April
• Mexico – May to mid-December
• The Caribbean – May to mid-December

See Also: Low Season USA Travel: 11 Adventures in Your Backyard

Given its gargantuan size, it should come as no surprise that there’s a whole host of varying climates and microclimates occurring on this vast continent throughout the year.

Generally speaking, South America can be divided into two regions, the first being Chile , Argentina , Uruguay , and southern Brazil, where the low season falls during the chilly winter months. Please be aware that here, it’s winter from May to August! The other region is Colombia , Peru , Ecuador , and Bolivia , where the weather patterns are dictated by wet and dry seasons rather than significant temperature changes. In Brazil, for example, there may be temperatures as low as ° C 15.8 / ° F 60.4 in Foz do Iguaçu, in the south in July, while Salvador, Bahia up north will still have approx. ° C 23.7 / ° F 74.7 degrees.

If you don’t mind packing a few extra layers and waterproof gear, you’ll love traveling outside of peak season here.

• Colombia / Peru / Ecuador / Bolivia – December to March
• Mach u Picchu – October to February (The Inca Trail closes every February for essential maintenance.)
• The Galapagos Islands – May to June and September and October
• Brazil – May to September
• Chile and Argentina (excluding Patagonia) – June to August

In many African destinations (especially safari hotspots), low-season travel comes with loads of perks: the Kalahari Desert offers fantastic game viewing during the off-season; the low season in Kenya means better deals and cheaper international airfare; and Tanzania’s birthing period falls during the off-peak months, so you’re more likely to see lion cubs and other baby animals.

Plus, you’ll get great value for money, you won’t have to compete for space at wildlife sightings, and the rainy season brings lush landscapes — which makes for excellent photo opportunities. 

It may be wetter during the low season, but if you can bear a bit of rain, there are a number of fantastic benefits that come with off-peak travel on this continent.

North Africa

• Morocco – November to February
• Egypt – June to August

Central/East Africa

• Kenya & Tanzania – March to June and October to December
• Ugand a – April and May
• Rwanda – April, May, and November

Southern Africa

• South Africa – April to September
• Namibia & Botswana – December to April 
• Moz ambique – March to June

Australia – June to August

Most people want to experience summer Down Under, but visiting during Australia’s winter (June to August) will save you cash on everything from your airfare to tours and bucket list activities.

And, since the weather is still pleasant and warm in many places around the country, choosing to travel during the off-season comes with some serious advantages.

New Zealand – June to August

The off-peak winter season is similar in New Zealand : you’ll find far fewer crowds at all the popular tourist spots (besides the ski resorts dotted around the country, of course).

Prices go down; hotel rates drop, and, in some destinations, you might feel as though you have the whole place to yourself.

Things to consider when booking an off-season holiday

Not every destination is suited to off-season travel; you definitely don’t want to be trekking in the Himalayas in a foot of snow or sweltering in Northern Australia in 45-degree heat. 

You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons and do some additional research before you travel to any particular destination during the low season. Weather, seasonal closures, and safety are three of the main things to keep in mind while you’re planning your trip.

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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16 Best Off-Season Travel Destinations For 2024

Traveling to major tourist destinations in the offseason is the best! Why? Because you can experience all the major sights without having to elbow other tourists and save loads of money as well.

Imagine experiencing no queues at the dinner tables, buying flight tickets for half the price, and not waiting for 7 hours to get into a museum. During peak season all these things can make you hate traveling while you silently wish for all the tourists to just disappear.

Smart travelers know how to avoid crowds and that’s what we are here for. Presenting you some of the best places in the world to have your amazing vacation without millions of people fighting with you for the perfect photo of the main attraction. Are you excited? We are as well, so let’s get started!

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a real dreamland in summer. However, this season of the year brings higher hotel costs and a slew of travelers.

As experienced travelers know, this famous Italian wine region is beautiful at any time of the year. In fact, the region’s rich and famous vineyards and local cuisine are best enjoyed in winter.

Tuscany is also known as a cultural destination because of its art and history, and you do not need the sun to appreciate these components of their culture. 

The walled medieval villages of Montepulciano, San Gimignano and Pienza are even more pleasant to visit in the off-season because there are no crowds.

But Tuscany also has an adventurous side. Other activities you can do in Tuscany are,

• Going for a long hike in the mountains.
• Renting a Vespa and running through the countryside
• Visiting naturally formed hot springs – Popular hot springs are Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo, Petriolo, and Saturnia.

St. Lucia – The sun-soaked Caribbean

The hotels, attractions, and restaurants will be heavily booked and more expensive than in the offseason, so make sure that you reserve everything in advance.

June through November (The Caribbean’s hurricane periods ) are better if you want to avoid high prices and crowded beaches.

Prices on airline tickets and hotels drop for as much as 50% so this is the perfect opportunity to take advantage off. There doesn’t exist a person in the world that doesn’t enjoy the Carribean so don’t miss out on an experience of a lifetime.

Visit Fiji During Low Season!

Fiji is a pleasant tropical destination perfect for an excursion during any time of the year. Although this utopian island Shangri-la doesn’t have any discernible “seasons”, there are certain periods of time during which more or fewer people choose to visit this incredible place.

Fiji’s “wet” or “low” season can be just as inviting as the “high” season when tourism is at its peak.

During the months of November through late April , you’ll be able to catch much cheaper flights and score completely affordable lodging, all while not sacrificing any of the sunshine you’d normally expect to experience here, and simultaneously beating the crowds.

These are some of the perfect months to plan a visit for, especially if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing trip for Adults. The swimming pools and beaches won’t be nearly as congested, and since school is in session, there won’t be as many noisy children to kill your vibe.

Christmas break is one of the only times during the winter months where you’ll find kids running about. Falling within the first couple of months of the low season, this is the perfect time to bring the kids for the ultimate family getaway during the holidays.

All in all, if you’re craving a bit of the island life during the winter months, Fiji is a must for you.

A Sub-Tropical Getaway During Hurricane Season? Yes.

Florida gets a bad rap during the months of August and September and as a direct result, vacations here can be much more affordable during this time.

Over 20 million people live, stay, and enjoy the state every year during the tourist dreaded “hurricane” season, when in fact hurricanes aren’t nearly as common as you’d think.

Prior to 2016, Florida hadn’t seen a hurricane make landfall in over 11 years. That all came to an end in September 2016, when Hurricane Hermine touched the coast and shortly thereafter, weakened into a tropical storm. In 2018, Florida saw the effects of Hurricane Michael along the panhandle. Although this may be enough to scare some people away during these months, you can take advantage of the cheap airfare and lodging prices. That being said, It’s always best to choose to be prepared for the unlikely, yet potentially extreme situations if they do so happen to arise.

Depending on where you are in The Sunshine State, you can anticipate rain showers for an hour or so nearly every afternoon, especially on the coast. Although this is true, it usually tends to clear up fast and things are bright, sunny, and back to normal in no time.

Purchase traveler’s insurance! This is a great option for anyone traveling under any circumstance, and it would be a smart move for someone visiting Florida during this time period.

Check with your airlines, hotels, etc. to confirm how they advise their guests of any potential dangers. Also, you can stay ahead of the game by downloading weather advisory apps to your smartphone and checking the hurricane and tropical storm information websites.

With this information at your fingertips, it’s up to you if you’re willing to make the decision to travel here during the off-season season, but if you do, you just might find yourself having the time of your life.

New Zealand – Travelling in Off Seasons

In the offseason, everything is cheaper and in spring and fall, everything is stunning. The winter is perfect if you love skiing and snowboarding.

During the off-season, you will also have the opportunity to meet locals and you can afford to be more impulsive and not have everything booked in advance. New Zealand has a good reputation all over the world, so booking a vacation there is not a bad idea. Nature is stunning and every sporty person loves the array of activities in New Zealand.

Greek Islands – The land of sightseeing

Yes, in the off-season you’ll miss the Mykonos nightfall, but in March still, visitors can enjoy Santorini and Athens sights with no regrets.

During this time hotel and travel prices drop largely. That’s why travelers should plan to visit it in the offseason.

Experience the amazing greek culture and food, have fun on the beach or dance sirtaki with the locals. Greece should be on everyone’s to-do list. If you haven’t been there yet, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of its off-season prices and have a trip of a lifetime.

The Bahamas – The Country without fall season

Anyhow there is no bad time to visit the Bahamas because of year-round it’s always delightfully warm.

Tourist attractions are bustling during the high season so if you want to book a cheap excursion, have no crowds and see more with less go there in the offseason. You will fall in love with the place and will yearn to return to it once again in the future.

San Francisco – Land of four distinct seasons

The best time to visit is from September to Novembe r , at that time it is the warmest and there are fewer tourists than in the summer.

It also is the perfect time to go to the beach because of its constantly sunny skies but don’t underestimate the bayside breezes and pack accordingly just in case.

Spring is also nice because there is not much rain. San Francisco definitely is one of the gems of America and you should definitely not miss out on it if you travel to the USA . It’s culture and tradition definitely made a mark in the history of the USA.

New Orleans – Enjoying Mardi Gras

New Orleans is known for its crazy Carnival ( Shrove Tuesday ) celebration which starts just after Christmas. At that time it is really crowded but it is well worth it and you should book everything a couple of months in advance otherwise it might get sold out.

The winter is the perfect time to avoid the crowds, get amazing deals on flight tickets and cheap hotels. December and January are the coldest months so pack accordingly.

If the weather is more important to you, then we recommend you go there in spring or fall. In spring the prices increase for quite a bit but the city becomes marvelous as it gets warmer. We know you will love New Orleans and look back on the memories you have made there with joy.

Cape Cod – The Summer destination gem

There’s immense satisfaction in exploring Cape Cod during the winter time. Expert voyagers can try hiking and biking to experience the full fun of the period between October and November.

You also don’t have to wait to for a plate of seafood on the table and the meals are extremely cheap. In autumn, travelers can explore Wellfleet Oysterfest to get a taste of the local culture.

Costa Rica -Travelling in Green Seasons

When crowds have gone back to schools and to work, smart tourists can start packing to get a better deal. The rain and clouds create beautiful green landscapes and transparent waterfalls throughout the downtime.

Enjoy pleasant moments in nature and find joy in the afternoon rain while resting in a hammock. How could you not enjoy that, Costa Rica definitely is a must go in the offseason. Nature is beautiful, people are friendly and the prices are low, seems like the perfect package.

Florence – The City with full of crowd

In the off-season, the crowds are gone entirely. The downtime starts in November and ends with Easter. Vacationers can get pleasure from rainy evenings and connect with locals all throughout the season. Except for Christmas and New Year eve, the prices go down for almost a half which is amazing for budget-oriented travelers.

You will definitely not regret visiting Florence in the offseason and you will be completely amazed at the beauty of the Renaissance architecture.

Italian culture is something you have to experience and their cuisine is something you won’t ever forget. What are you waiting for, book your flight tickets to Florence right now!.

Bali -The Romantic Honeymoon destination

Everything turns green at that time so you will definitely enjoy the scenery. You will be the only person visiting the sights so it will be perfect for taking photos for Instagram. Traffic is also non-existent in those months. Bali has been referred to as the paradise on earth, so it must be amazing. It is perfect for reconnecting with yourself and experiencing the world on a deeper level. Go to Bali and experience it yourself! 

There is plenty of things TO DO in Bali  and you won’t know what to do first, even when visiting in low / rainy season. 

Byron Bay, Australia

Though Byron is popular throughout the year, there are exciting things to explore in the offseason. The beginning of wintertime is awesome because it isn’t too cold to swim but surfing becomes way more enjoyable. Spring from September to November is also amazing.

Why? The weather is dry, the temperatures are pleasant, the prices go down and there are countless activities you can do. Australia is on most of the people’s bucket lists, we think it is time for you to cross it of yours! Though the country has a very strict decree for hunters, they’re allowed to take part in Red Deer hunt game throughout the year.

So an opportunist won’t miss the chance to take part in such a thrilling game with his best binoculars for hunting and will make his/her journey more meaningful.

Prague, Czech Republic

Spring and early fall are perfect as well. The climate is chillier than in the warmer summer months but there are fewer crowds and cheaper hotel rates. Spring and fall, however, offer clear skies and sunny weather.

There are still some tourists in the spring so still prepare yourself and book everything in advance. We know you will love Prague so tell us how it was once you come back from your trip!

Cape Town, South Africa

January to April is the best time to visit the city as the summer is just ending. December to February is the peak summer season when you can expect busy nightlife, crowded beaches, and a warm vibe.

By February most of the tourists leave making it perfect for saving money, chilling on an uncrowded beach and experience less wind. From July to September it is perfect for watching whales along the coastlines as well.

It can be a bit dangerous in some outside areas so don’t do foolish things if you don’t have to. Other than that Cape Town can be the perfect vacation destination.

If you are on budget or looking for great travelers community, check out our roundup of Best Hostels in Cape Town for Backpackers!!

The secret to a budget-friendly trip? Travel during the off-season. You may have to make a few sacrifices, but at half the cost and without all the crowds, off-season travel is worth considering. From the European vacation you’ve been dreaming about to that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Africa , check out these off-season destinations for every month of the year.

January – Barcelona

As one of the most popular destinations in the world, Barcelona is never completely free of tourists. Nonetheless, strategically planning your trip in the off-season could be in your best interest. January sits between the major holidays of Christmas and Easter, and city streets, restaurants, and Gaudí’s buildings will be less clogged than normal. Temperatures will also be relatively mild, so you can still plan on sipping Rioja on the terrace as long as you pack a jacket.

February – New York City

If you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway to Manhattan, a trip in February will do quite nicely. As long as you steer clear of Valentine’s Day, you’ll find cheaper accommodations and more affordable flights in the winter. You’ll likely have to bundle up to go outside, but that just means you’re tough like a New Yorker. For the Big Apple’s greatest hits, visit the Museum of Natural History and MoMA , catch a show on Broadway, stroll through snowy Central Park, and grab a New York slice.

March – Amalfi Coast

If you’re in need of a quiet respite by the sea, visit the Amalfi Coast in March. The early spring on the Italian seaside is pleasant and slow with many hotels and restaurants closed for the season. Not all the coastal towns are completely dead, however, and with a little planning, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The good news? Without the on-season crowds, the coastline’s famous winding roads will be easier to navigate and the area’s gorgeous hiking trails will be yours to explore.

April – Colorado

April is the start of a little thing called “mud season” in Colorado, which truly isn’t as bad as it may sound. If you stick to the low-lying Colorado plains in cities like Denver and Fort Collins, you won’t feel the effects as much. In fact, you’ll likely enjoy some sunshine and warmer weather to explore these vibrant cities. Head towards the mountains, however, and you’ll begin to notice the effects of spring snowmelt. If you're looking for skiing or hiking, this won't be your season. Depending on the snowpack, Colorado ski resorts typically close in early-to-mid April. What this does mean, however, is you can find some great deals on accommodations and spa treatments, so you can still enjoy a relaxing weekend away.

May – Alaska

If your schedule can swing it, May is a great time to make that coveted trip to Alaska. The weather may be cooler, but it’s also a lot drier with fewer rain showers than the rest of the summer. While it’s not the cheapest time to visit (that would be November and December), it is less crowded than June, July, and August. May is also a good time to see wildlife in its natural habitat. From bears on the first salmon run to humpback whales near Juneau , the Alaskan wildlife should be out and about for your viewing pleasure.

June – New Zealand

If you live in the Northern Hemisphere and don’t mind spending the start of your summer in a cool, rainy climate, then June in New Zealand is perfect for you. Marking the beginning of New Zealand’s winter, and smack-dab in the middle of its rainy season, you won’t get picture-perfect weather in June. However, you will get flights that are way more affordable, cheaper car and RV rentals, and discounted winter rates for lodging. June is also early ski season and while the snowpack may not be as reliable as July or August, the slopes will be open with fewer crowds and shorter lift lines.

July – South Africa

There’s no doubt that a South African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list kind of trip . Witnessing a pride of lions basking in the sun or watching an elephant sway past your jeep is the kind of travel we should all aspire to — thrilling, memorable, and a peek into a world we know nothing about. That being said, safaris are quite expensive and flights to South Africa aren’t cheap. If you’re ready to make the leap, however, July will keep your costs a bit lower. The colder, drier season means you’ll have to bundle up for those early dawn jeep rides, but it also has some perks. The bush will be brown and barren — making it easier to spot the “big five” while you’re there.

August - Goa

Goa's popular coastline clears out during monsoon season, transforming from a beach party to a quiet getaway in a matter of months. August is later in the rainy season, meaning it averages cooler temperatures (75 degrees Fahrenheit) and less rainfall (20 inches total). While this type of weather isn’t ideal for hitting up the beach, it does come with some major perks. Rooms in the touristy, upscale hotels are much more affordable and monsoon season is a great time for hikers to explore Goa’s inland forests. Plus, the added rainfall supercharges the region’s abundant waterfalls, adding some oomph to the already beautiful landscape.

September – Caribbean Islands

Looking for a cheap trip to the Caribbean ? Book during hurricane season. October is typically the stormiest month, so if you go a little earlier in August and September you still enjoy major price drops in flights and accommodations. If you’re willing to take the risk, you could luck out with fantastic weather and no crowds. If such a gamble isn’t your thing, consider a trip to the southern Caribbean to Aruba or Grenada, which lie outside the Hurricane Belt. Either way, don’t forget the trip insurance on this one.

October – Argentina

Considered to be shoulder season in South America, October is a gem of a month that isn’t as popular with the tourist set. Marking mid-spring for the Southern Hemisphere, the chill of winter has evaporated and the country’s greenery is beginning to emerge. Buenos Aires is especially lovely this time of year — the days are long, the temps are mild, and the flowers at the Palermo Rose Garden are in peak bloom. Farther south, Patagonia is just opening up from its winter hibernation, which means it will be less costly (and colder) than the popular summer months of January and February.

November – Hawaii

From volcanic hikes to waterfalls in the jungle, the Big Island’s diverse ecosystem is ripe for adventure. And since rainfall in the Pacific is typically higher in November, travel costs in Hawaii dip at this time of year. Don’t let the prospect of rainy season deter you, though. Temperatures are still warm and the rain showers are brief. The island’s two airports average different amounts of rainfall, so take note when planning your itinerary. Kona is more touristy but drier, while Hilo has a laid-back, local vibe and more rain.

December – Iceland

Off-season travel in December is a bit tricky since the holidays cause rates to spike later in the month. However, if you’re not averse to cold weather, this is a good time of year to make an Iceland trip. Between the vast, white lowlands and the snow-covered glaciers, Iceland’s arctic landscape was meant to be seen this time of year. Temps will hover in the 20s, but with the appropriate winter gear , you’ll still be able to explore Iceland’s many outdoor offerings. Plus, the lack of daylight and the dry weather make this the best time of year to spot the elusive Northern Lights .

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Low Season Travel Guide | Dates for Low Season In Asia, Europe, & More

Traveling during low season is cheaper and less crowded for the most part. Here's a guide or navigating the low season for the most popular travel destinations.

Low season travel is becoming one of the key ways for backpackers to travel long term on a budget. So in this guide we're breaking down what low season is, what it means, how to navigate low season in certain countries, and everything else you need to know about low season travel.

What Is Low Season?

Low season is typically when the weather conditions for a country/destination are less favorable to the majority of tourists that want to visit. Think too cold, too hot, too rainy, or less than ideal conditions for the core activity of the trip - this is when you'll find the least amount of tourists in a particular place.

Why Should I Travel During Low Season?

Fewer tourists and travelers mean that the supply for flights, accommodation, tours and more are really high, but demand is really low - so prices are lower to encourage people to come. A hostel or airline is losing money if they don't fill beds or seats, this is where you come in with your shoestring budget and a smile on your face 😊

Low season doesn't have all the perks of high season but a lot of the time, especially for the budget traveler, the perks outweigh the downsides.

When Is Low Season?

Low season depends on the country and isn't nessarily a summer vs winter thing. In some places summer is low season as it's too hot. In other places it's in between calendar seasons as that's when a particular mountain is able to be climbed. So you need to check the destination to find when it's low season and when it's high season - your goals for the travel may vary depending on what your trip entails.

In the next section we're going to go over some of the most popular destinations for travel , and talk about the high season, and low season months. We're going to cover:

• What the weather will be like.
• How crowded it will be.
• When some of the holidays or festivals will take place.
• Other details that you should know.

This isn't a definitive list, but it'll cover the basics and what to watch out for. Remember that:

Low Season = lower prices High Season = higher prices

That being said, sometimes you want to go during the high season for multiple reasons. Maybe there's a festival you want to go to, maybe there's a mountain you want to climb - in any case, here's the list.

Note: This list is being updated regularly, we don't have every country on there, and there are definitely a few gaps but you should be able to get an idea with what we've got.

Popular Destinations & Contents

Australia & new zealand.

• Asia 2.1. Hong Kong 2.2. Japan 2.3. South Korea 2.4. Taiwan
• South America 4.1. Brazil, Chile & Argentina 4.2. Peru & Ecuador
• Southeast Asia 5.1. Cambodia 5.2. Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore 5.3. Vietnam

You're most likely living in the Northern Hemisphere so it's flipped seasons if you're going down to Australia or New Zealand - prepare for some crazy heat too in the summer months.

Australia is big so there's going to be some differences in climates, and tourism depending on where you go, but we'll cover it here so don't worry.

🌞 High | Hot Season (December through February) - It's not surprising that summer is the High Season in a country where most of the towns and cities are coastal.

For the east coast of Australia, the more north you go, the hotter it gets. So the state of Queensland is where you'll get the most sunshine and heat. But don't worry, there are plenty of beach towns everywhere you go. In fact, the season will start early here from October to March, you'll get travelers swimming, snorkeling, and hiking with some partying in the mix as well.

In places like Melbourne, Victoria - you'll get 4 seasons in a day in any given season. It could be sweltering hot one day and freezing the next. Quite sporadic but high season is high season - you'll see a lot of tourists, especially around Christmas and New Years.

😎 High | Warm Season (September through November) - The spring is also quite popular in Australia as you'll get tourists who can't stand how hot it gets in the summer. Especially on the east and west coasts. Gold Coast and above, and Perth and above - these are perfect temperatures for travelers. The crowds get started in the spring.

❄️ Low Season (March through August) - The water is usually less appealing, the weather is cool and can get quite cold depending on how south you are, and the travelers are limited to those who are having a year off working in Australia or New Zealand.

But you'll find some fantastic Skiing in June and July, in New Zealand. You'll always have days where the beach looks great and the temperature is OK for a dip. Prices for flights to Australia and New Zealand are cheaper during these months as well.

Mostly consistent 4 season weather, though the coastal areas tend to get more sub-tropical climates and this affects high and low seasons throughout some of the regions.

• 🎆 High Season (October through February) - Starting with hot weather and cooling down throughout these months is the only time Hong Kong is cool. Add holidays to the mix and this period becomes very busy and expensive.
• 🌧️ Low Season (May through September) - Rain, Storms, Typhoons, Heat and Humidity - These months really show you Hong Kong's sub-tropical weather. It's mild most of the time and usually isn't a concern, other than the humidity and rain.
• 🌸 High | Cherry Blossom Season (March through May) - Spring is the perfect warmer weather in Japan, with April being peak season as the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom throughout the country. This is when everything is extra expensive.
• 🗻 High | Climbing and Summer Season (June through September) - The weather's much warmer now. Mt. Fuji opens for climbing in July and is open through to mid September - prices are stable but it can get quite touristy.
• 🍁 Low | Autumn (Late October through  December) - This avoids the spring and summer, along with cherry blossoms and climbing seasons. It also avoids the New Years holidays and ski season that'll peak in winter. It's the perfect cool temperature and flights/accommodation are lower. The later in Autumn you go the better, as Autumn foliage can attract a lot of tourists too.

South Korea

• 😎 High Season (June through August) - Summer time with high levels of tourist activity - it's also hot.
• ✌ Low Season (April through May, September through October) - Late Spring and Early Autumn are the perfect times where tourists tend to be in smaller numbers, flights and accommodation are cheaper.
• 😎 High Season (July through August) - Summer time with price increases for accommodation and other expenses - more crowds.
• ✌ Low Season (November through March) - Varies from warmer ~25 C (South) to colder (North) ~10 C averaging out country wide around 18-19 C. Fewer tourists, but around New Years time, prices may go up for a few weeks.
• ☯️ Shoulder Seasons (Everything in between) - Still some good discounts available on accommodation, though watch out around March-May as it may resemble high season because of Chinese tour groups and tourists.

Europe has many countries that are land locked, coastal, cross over multiple climates, and are miles apart both latitudinal and longitudinal. We'll split Europe up into certain areas for specifics but the high and low seasons are pretty consistent across each region. Here're some guides on Europe.

For Europe, these are the general seasons.

😎 High Season (Late June to Mid September) - Summer is the high season in most of Europe. Tour groups, enormous music festivals, sailing, swimming, hiking, holidays - it's all there.

But certain areas take longer to warm up than others, and some get warmer more quickly. So depending on where you are, you can move the months around a little but the middle will always be busy, and expensive.

• In Southern European countries like Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia etc. It starts getting warm in late spring around May. As the weather gets warmer the tourists start coming in.
• In the Baltic's and Scandinavia, Summer is still high season with July being the busiest. It's considered the hottest time with an average of 20 degrees Celsius which is hilarious for anyone living in hotter climates. Going here in may, like Southern Europe would definitely be considered low season.

Other countries in Central and Eastern Europe are consistent with the usual Summer High Season traffic, and prices.

❄️ Low Season (November through March) - Winter is the low season in Europe with the exception of hot spots for Skiing and winter sports - think parts of Switzerland and France , and other Central European countries, January to March. And the holiday season in late December.

Besides those specific activities, you won't see a lot of tourists during the winter. Accommodation, transport, and attractions are cheaper, but you'll need to layer up to deal with the cold.

☯️ Shoulder Seasons (April to Mid June, September through October) - Cool weather, but it can be considered cold depending on where you are and the day, the prices aren't at a peak and you'll be picking up cheap accommodation and transport everywhere you go.

These in-between seasons are some of the best times to be traveling Europe on a budget as you get best of both worlds. It's not extreme winter weather, but it's not peak tourist season either.

• Southern Europe is where you'll get some nicer weather during the shoulder seasons. So going early to Italy, Spain etc. might be a winning strategy.

South America

The high and low seasons in South America greatly depend on where in South America you're traveling. The closer you are to the equator the hotter it'll be, but that being said, the summer will be the hottest and wettest season in South America.

Brazil, Chile & Argentina

• 😎 High Season (November to Mid March) - The Summer months attract the most visitors, and it'll be the hottest it'll usually get. There will be plenty o travelers looking to go hiking, exploring the national parks, and going to world renowned celebrations in Brazil. Brazil and Argentina will usually be hot and humid, excluding Patagonia which will be dry.
• ☯️ Shoulder Seasons (Mid March to Early June, September through October) - This corresponds to the spring and autumn months, and is usually cooler, less touristy and you'll get a cheaper experience. It's the best time to go as a budget traveler.
• 🌧️ Low | Wet Season (June through August) - These are the winter months in Chile, ski resorts will be open, the salt flats will also be bearable as the heat will have dissipated. There will be less tourists and cheaper prices, barring the skiing hot spots. Depending on the region you're in, if it's not for skiing i.e. no snow, you'll get some rain, but it's more the day time temperatures going down to 13 C that pushes away the masses. Note that Brazil may see spikes in accommodation prices as the weather is less humid and tourists do come during this season.

Peru & Ecuador

• 😎 High | Dry Season (May through September) - The peak season in Peru and Ecuador corresponds to the Dry Season, or their summer. You'll get hot temperatures but less rain than other parts of the continent. These months also correspond to the holidays of tourists from places like the US or Europe so it can definitely get crowded.
• 🌧️ Low | Wet Season (October through April) - Barring Christmas and New years times, accommodation and flights are much cheaper. But expect rain and humidity during these months, the mosquito's will be out as well, so make sure you spray up.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia has a combination of heavy rainfall and monsoon seasons, coupled with hot seasons where the heat can get quite high. But regardless of the season, it's consistently warm We've written quite a few articles on Southeast Asia.

• 😎 High | Dry Season (November through March) - The hottest it'll get is in April and it'll work its way there from a cool 20 C from November to January, picking up the pace until it's really hot around March/April - peak tourism is around this time.
• 🌧️ Low | Wet Season (May through September) - Day time temperatures are around 25-27 C and it rains almost everyday but there are no monsoons or typhoons as the western border isn't coastal. But it's not constant, it rains during the day for a few hours much like other SE Asian countries, and then it tapers off. Well worth it for the cheaper travel.

Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore

• 😎 High | Cool Season (October to March) - This is the most popular time as it's cooler than usual but not so hot.
• 🔥 Low | Hot Season (March to June) - This is when it starts getting quite humid, but it's still a great option if you're going on an island/beach style trip.
• 🌊 Low | Monsoon Season (June to October) - This is when it rains for 1-3 hours in buckets every day, but then goes back to normal clear/cloudy skies. Avoid the middle of it, and spend more time in central and northern Thailand, or away from the coast in Malaysia - and you should avoid it.
• 😎 High | Cool Season (March to May, September to November) - These periods are spring and autumn, they're cooler and have holidays scattered through them (April/May) so it's busy on both the local and tourist front.
• 🎆 Low | Local Summer Holidays (July to August) - This is low season in terms of tourists because it's quite hot, but it can get crowded with locals as it's their summer holidays -that being said, this could be a great thing in terms of local prices and a cultural experience.
• ⛄ Low | Winter (December to February) - Don't fret, Vietnam winter won't be a snowy one and depending on where you're from, you probably won't feel cold. North Vietnam is 10-15 Celsius and central to south is around 20-30. Perfect temperatures but fewer tourists.

This article will be updated with more countries and regions regularly.

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The Best Destinations for Off-Season Travel, from Iceland to Okinawa

By Chadner Navarro and Travis Levius

Despite conventional wisdom, traveling in the off-season (or low season) has its benefits. Visiting places when their tourism numbers are typically at their lowest of the year often means savings on transportation prices (not just planes and trains, but car rentals, too) and cheaper accommodations. Hotels slice their rates by as much as half, but they’re also generally more generous with things like complimentary amenities and suite upgrades during a lull in bookings.

As for the destinations themselves, a lack of other travelers allows you easier access to attractions and sites that would otherwise be mobbed during busier pockets of the calendar. (This also goes for snagging reservations at sought-after restaurants .) After all, most experiences aren’t exactly improved upon when you’re packed like sardines—especially during a pandemic.  Traveling when cities and resorts are less busy doesn’t just help you get a more pocket-friendly vacation; local hospitality businesses can benefit, too. Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators can keep staff employed for a longer chunk of the year, as opposed to just during the five-month stretch of summer. And by avoiding destinations when they’re at near capacity, you’re alleviating some of the stress on their tourism infrastructure . In many ways, off-season travel is a win-win.  Try not to think of climate as a deterrent, either. Some destinations have high seasons that are pegged to good weather; visit them during months when weather isn’t the main attraction, and your experience can actually be revelatory. For example, the Amalfi in November is no longer about the beaches, but rather a chance to experience Baroque architecture and visit vineyards. And Kenya in the off-season (or green season, as it’s called) brings about lush vegetations that lures out all types of animals.

In a way, low-season travel is kind of like seeing an entirely new destination—even one you have been to before. Below, find our seasonal breakdown of where to go in the off-season, and why.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Mahali Mzuri, Kenya

January to March

You may not get to witness the Great Migration during this time (that takes place from July to October), but an East Africa safari early in the year often yields miraculous sightings of a different kind: It’s calving season, which means wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes will be giving birth to their babies. 

March also marks the start of Kenya’s rainy season, which means the country’s other tourist-heavy attractions—from trekking Mount Kenya to sunbathing on the island of Lamu—begin to see fewer visitors. This is also a great time to honeymoon in Sir Richard Branson’s Mahali Mzuri and take advantage of an even more intimate safari experience.

Northern California

NorCal’s world-famous wine countries may not be harvest-ready yet, but there’s still plenty in this region to satisfy your sense of adventure. In the northeast, right at the Oregon border, you can crawl through Lava Beds National Monument , home to hundreds of caves and countless Native American rock art sites. There are even ice caves that are only accessible during winter. 

Along the coast of Mendocino County, the first quarter of the year is fantastic for whale watching. Base yourself at the brand-new Montage Healdsburg , which is within walking distance of tasting rooms from Sonoma wineries. But through January and February, the hotel hosts weekly meet-the-maker wine events, complimentary to guests of legal drinking age.

Sahara sunrises might sound better suited for summer travel, but winter’s cooler months actually make for a much more pleasant (read: less sweltering) experience in the desert. And consistent swells from the Atlantic Ocean give both surfing enthusiasts and beginners plenty of waves to conquer off the coasts of Essaouira and Taghazout. The treasures of Marrakech’s medina are much easier to mine through, too, as the city takes on a quieter allure. The iconic, historic La Mamounia ’s recently upgraded hotel grounds—now featuring a pan-Asian Jean-Georges restaurant, an underground wine library, and a 21-seat cinema—are primed for discovery.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland

April to June

Going to the picture-perfect Maldives is all about getting away from it all. Jetsetters typically avoid the islands during the springtime rainy season—visit during these months, and you’ll really feel like you have full run of house of some of the planet’s most sought-after hotels. With an experience this exclusive, what harm is a little afternoon shower?

By Kyler Alvord

By Matt Meltzer

By Meaghan Kenny

By Condé Nast Traveller

For many of us, a vacation isn’t complete without plenty of time to read. Luxury resort Soneva Fushi is elevating that bookish concept this May, when it will host an on-property satellite of the Jaipur Literary Festival . Boldface names like André Aciman (of Call Me by Your Name fame) will be leading keynote sessions and rousing convos around the hotel, adding a bit of intellectual action to the Maldives’ wet season.

This beloved Arctic destination is often mobbed during the winter and summer. Springtime is not only less crowded, but it also offers the best of both high seasons with warm- and cool-weather activities. It’s much easier to hike Iceland’s dramatic terrain (like the volcanic range of Mount Esja just outside Reykjavik) when some of the ice is gone, but before the tourists arrive. And if you’re lucky, sometimes the Northern Lights make an appearance as late as early spring. How unforgettable would it be to witness the phenomenon as you take a nighttime dip in the exclusive guests-only pools of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon ?

Not an outdoor enthusiast? Not a problem. Fans of all things manmade should plan to attend DesignMarch (May 4–8, 2022), a 14-year-old festival that celebrates the country’s lauded architecture, fashion, interior design, and more.

Okinawa, Japan

While most tourists are busy seeking out cherry blossoms in Japan’s major destinations, take advantage of Okinawa’s idyllic (and crowd-free) islands this April. A lull in tourism means resort prices are still low—including at the brand-new Hoshinoya Okinawa , surrounded by cherry trees and bougainvillea and soundtracked by martial arts chanting. Sun worshippers may get the occasional bout of hot weather in southern Japan, but the generally mild temperatures are perfect for active water adventures, like surfing, parasailing, and flyboarding.

Guests at Elysian Retreat, Australia

Butterfly at Elysian Retreat, Australia

July to September

Visiting Jamaica during the rainy season might not sound like a dream vacation. But if you’re going to get briefly rained out, you can’t pick a better place to wait out the storm than a discounted suite in Montego Bay’s painfully hip S Hotel , where fresh seafood and an underground bath system inspired by the island’s healing pools await. And when the sun does come out to play, it’s a great time to explore the lush, less-trodden south coast, known for its bountiful farmlands and coral-hued beaches. Take a bike tour of some of the region’s top farming and fishing teams to learn more about Jamaica’s sustainable agricultural operations.

Tucson, Arizona

The Sonoran Desert is great during the winter, but the heat of summer can be awfully overwhelming in Tucson. If it’s too hot to do much around town, take it easy at the iconic Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa , where you can soak in the pool and indulge in spa treatments for nearly half the price of high-season rates. You can then partake of their evening programming when the sun sets, including night hikes and yoga under the stars.

If you can tolerate the heat, September is also a great time to discover Southern Arizona’s winemaking scene, with a guided tour of Willcox wine country, an hour east of the city. Alternatively, book an appointment with one of the best brands coming out of the state: Sand Reckoner has a tasting room in downtown Tucson.

Queensland, Australia

Lower humidity during the southern hemisphere’s winter makes seeing Queensland’s unforgettable natural landscapes much easier—and a lot more comfortable. You can get lost in the remote expanse of the Outback on a four-wheel-drive adventure. You can explore as much of the 894,420 hectares of the Wet Tropics of Queensland—a World Heritage Site of forests that house the highest concentration of unique plant life in the world, including 90 species of orchids. And, of course, you can pay a special visit to the Great Barrier Reef, ready for diving and snorkeling. The eco-friendly, rustic-chic Elysian Retreat (the first solar powered resort in the area) is an exceptional home base for hopping around the GBR’s 600 islands. But this is also where you can get away from it all, as only 20 guests are permitted at any one time.

Delaire Graff Restaurant’s Blesbok Loin dish

Delaire Graff Superior Lodge Lounge Area

October to December

South africa.

The end of the calendar year sees South Africa just emerging from winter’s grip—it’s not quite hot enough to hit its beaches, but the bush is already teeming with action. While it’s still dry in October, a walking safari at Singita Lebombo in Kruger National Park is an exceptional way to see wildlife, as there isn’t yet much vegetation for animals to hide in. Given the property’s proximity from the river, you can even spot them from the resort’s relaxing pools.

Elsewhere in the country, city streets in Johannesburg are blooming with jacaranda trees. And booking yourself into the art-meets-nature grounds of Delaire Graff Estate in picturesque Stellenbosch gets you up close and personal with the lush beauty and juicy fruits of the Cape Winelands.

Amalfi Coast

A leaf-peeping trip opens up this storied Italian destination from mid-October until early November, when many of the tourists have fled but the region hasn’t fully shut down yet. It’s a fabulous time to visit the cliff-facing winery of Marisa Cuomo Winery , which specializes in late-harvest white wines. It’s also an ideal time to stroll through colorful seaside towns: buy ceramics in Vietri sul Mare, eat your weight in pasta in Nerano, trek the hills of Positano, and soak in the architecture of Amalfi. Get the most out of Amalfi’s newest gem: Borgo Santandrea , a luxury bolthole brought to life with a mosaic of striking tiles and verdant Mediterranean-style gardens. 

You’re typically advised against visiting tropical destinations during their green seasons, when precipitation is at its most intense—but that’s the tropics for you. A late-November or early-December visit to Costa Rica would likely mean that the worst of the rainfall has passed, leaving in its wake a country lush, verdant, glorious. Costa Rica’s post-rain splendor is especially visible at Nayara Springs , a luxury lodge tucked deep in Arenal Volcano National Park, where yoga sessions are staged to singing birds and jungle walks are accompanied by friendly sloths. Fewer visitors means more opportunities to soak in the beauty of the iconic, cone-shaped volcano.

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10 Affordable Winter Vacations at Off-Peak Destinations

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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Weather-related airport delays and the holiday travel period notwithstanding, winter is a great time to travel. Plenty of destinations in the U.S. and around the world have their shoulder season or low-season in winter, and the corresponding lower prices make it more affordable to visit some normally pricey destinations. Of course, weather varies from mild to downright cold in winter, but the big savings may make up for it.

Best Off-Peak Places to Visit in December for Affordability

Napa valley and sonoma county, california.

A slower pace of life settles over the Napa and Sonoma valleys after the grapes have been harvested and the new wines are safely tucked away to age in cellars and caves. Winter is dubbed “Cabernet Season” because chillier temperatures inspire a turn to heartier cuisine and bigger red wines. A visit during this cooler time of year still yields the many charms of both valleys, from wine tasting to soaking in thermal pools. But not only will you find a more intimate experience—one with fewer tour buses to battle and more room to linger over a tasting flight at a local winery—you’ll also be able to enjoy it all for less.

Winter is also yellow mustard season in Napa and Sonoma, a time when the valleys are blanketed in the vivid yellow blooms of wild mustard flowers. Restaurant Month—a time to sample world-renowned restaurants for a fraction of the usual price—takes over Napa in January and happens in Sonoma later in winter. And despite fewer visitors, Napa and Sonoma still offer a full schedule of events such as art shows and gourmet food tastings.

For more information about where to stay and what to do in Napa during the winter, visit the Cabernet Season section of Visit Napa Valley’s website. And check out Sonoma County Tourism for of winter-trip inspiration .  To find air deals to San Francisco International, Oakland International, or the Sonoma County Airports, head to our sister site, Airfarewatchdog .

Check Prices for Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa in Napa

Santa fe, new mexico.

Although winter is ski season in Santa Fe, rates for accommodations still drop by 20 to 40 percent because summer attracts the most visitors and is considered peak. Restaurants, galleries, and museums stay open year-round, but Santa Fe is free from the crowds that can clog its streets at other times of the year. Plus, you can save up to 40 percent on accommodations while having the city essentially to yourself.

Skiers looking for options outside the pricy resorts of Colorado and Utah will find affordable lodging in Santa Fe and good runs at  Ski Santa Fe in the nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains. If you’re not a skier, you can still find plenty to do in winter by touring the city’s art galleries, shops, and museums. Or, catch a performance of the Santa Fe Symphony , the  Santa Fe Concert Association , the  Santa Fe Pro Musica , or the  Lensic Performing Arts Center , all in session during the winter.

Native American and Christian traditions are both celebrated in Santa Fe around Christmas. On December 24, Canyon Road and the Plaza are decorated with farolitos , small sand-filled bags lit by votive candles, and residents and visitors enjoy the lights with caroling and hot cider.  Pueblos  near Santa Fe perform annual  animal dances  around the holidays that visitors are welcome to experience. January, February, and March are also good times to visit the pueblos and experience the various dances and ceremonies performed there each year.

Find accommodations, search for special offers, and learn about winter activities by visiting the  Santa Fe CVB website . Search for airfare deals to Santa Fe on Airfarewatchdog .

Check Prices for Bishop's Lodge Resort & Spa in Santa Fe

Tahiti and french polynesia.

Tahiti and the other 117 islands that make up the tropical paradise of French Polynesia are considered year-round destinations by many; but slightly warmer, wetter weather causes visitation to drop off somewhat between November and March. As a result, prices for airfare and accommodations also fall in the winter. Taking advantage of these deals won’t lead to a soggy vacation, however. Although afternoon rainstorms are common in winter, Tahiti still averages more hours of sunshine per day than Honolulu, according to research compiled by UCLA.

To get an idea of the savings you can expect by traveling to Tahiti in the winter, we researched rates for air-and-hotel vacation packages to the islands from three different providers. Overall, per-person rates for weeklong vacations in the winter months were about $100 to $200 cheaper than travel during the summer. Many hotels offer low-season rates, and tour providers and cruise lines may discount their services. For a list of current deals, visit the “specials” page on the website for Tahiti Tourism North America .

To learn more about travel to Tahiti and to find listings of accommodations and vacation specials, go to the  Tahiti Tourism website . Find air deals by browsing the websites of airlines that service Tahiti, including  Air New Zealand , Air France (a SkyTeam partner),  Air Tahiti Nui (an American and Delta partner), French Bee ,  Hawaiian Airlines ,  Qantas , and United .

Check Prices for InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa in Faa'a

Bonus Destinations for Affordable Travel in December: Morocco; Chicago, Illinois; and the United Kingdom.

Best Off-Peak Places to Visit in January for Affordability

New york city .

Thanks to the tourism board’s NYC Winter Outing programming, there are major savings to be had in New York City in January, and the savings even continue into February. To start, the city hosts NYC Restaurant Week, NYC Broadway Week, and NYC Must-See Week during which select Broadway shows, attractions, museums, tours, and performing arts venues offer two-for-one tickets and more than 350 restaurants feature discounted prix-fixe menus.

For accommodations, the tourism board partners with over 50 hotels to offer special discounted pricing, upgrades, or other perks on stays in winter. And with three major airports as well as easy access via rail and car, getting to New York City can certainly be budget-friendly.

Wintertime is an exciting time to visit New York City, especially for shopping, museum-going, theater-hopping, and more

Check Prices for Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Manhattan/Times Square South in New York City

According to a study using data from the Japan National Tourist Organization, winter is the slowest season for tourist arrivals in Japan, with about 40 percent fewer visitors than during the peak summer season. As a result, winter airfares to Japan can be over 50 percent less than summer fares.

For lower-priced winter sale fares, keep your eyes on United , which often has discounted last-minute fares to Japan from several U.S. cities. You can also check for air sales to Japan on the websites of carriers that serve the country such as  Japan Airlines  and  Delta . You can also use Airfarewatchdog to monitor fares to Tokyo , Osaka , and Sapporo .

Geographically a long, slender country, Japan reaches the same latitude as Portland, Oregon, in the north; while southern Japan is at roughly the same latitude as Florida. Which means that, similar to the weather in the U.S., Japan’s north is cold and snowy in the winter; its mid-latitudes are cold but sunny; and its subtropical south is warm all winter long.

Ski resorts, hot springs, snow festivals, and peak viewing of Japan’s national bird, the Red-crowned Crane, are draws for visitors to the north in winter. In the rest of the country, it’s still possible to see many of the usual cultural attractions, all with less competition from other visitors. Take Kyoto for instance, an old-soul city, with abundant World Heritage sites (17 in total), an authentic geisha district, ancient temples, and peaceful Zen rock gardens. In Kyoto, hotels generally have clear high- and low-season price disparities that work to your advantage in winter.

To learn more about winter travel in Japan, visit the websites for the  Japan National Tourist Organization  and  Outdoor Japan .

Check Prices for Cross Hotel Kyoto in Kyoto

Enjoy a slice of island life without paying the high-season prices of the Caribbean. Bermuda, which lies north of the Caribbean and east of the Carolinas in the Atlantic, offers mild winter weather (average of 70 degrees) and plenty of leisure activities, including sightseeing, tennis, and golf. However, since the water gets too cool for swimming (for most), travelers looking for a winter beach escape tend to overlook the island. And that translates to off-peak savings.

Lower-season prices on accommodations become an even better deal with the island’s Pink Sale promotion, which offers up to 50 percent off at participating hotels and resorts for travel between January and April (this promo also usually runs in the fall from September to December). With fewer visitors in the winter, rates for accommodations can drop by 40 percent or more, making this affluent British territory affordable for more budget-minded travelers.

Popular events throughout winter offer even more reasons to visit: The Bermuda Marathon weekend happens in January, the six-week Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts begins in January, and whale-watching tours start in March.

Visit the  Bermuda Tourism website  to find other accommodations and special offers. To find sale fares to the island, head to Airfarewatchdog .

Check Prices for Willowbank Resort in Somerset Village

Bonus Destinations for Affordable Travel in January: San Diego, California; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Best Off-Peak Places to Visit in February for Affordability

Yellowstone national park, montana.

Yellowstone was the first national park in the U.S. and remains one of the most popular. It receives more than four million visitors per year, but only 83,00 of those come during the winter (December thru February). Winter offers smaller crowds, and rates for accommodations drop for the season, making it an appealing and affordable time to visit. However, be warned: Though the park spans parts of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, there are more closures in winter. Check the NPS website for the most up-to-date information.

Wildlife viewing is particularly good in winter. Visitors can easily spot gray wolves, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelopes, moose, and bald eagles, among other animals.

Other wintertime activities include alpine and  cross-country skiing , snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and  touring the park  by snowcoach. Equipment can be rented in the park or from providers and hotels outside the park.

Winter temperatures are very cold, from zero to 20 degrees in the daytime to sub-zero temperatures at night, with an average snowfall of 150 inches per year. However, plenty of warming huts are located around the park, some of which have snacks and hot beverages.

Xanterra Parks and Resorts  operates the in-park hotels, and two of its properties typically offers winter specials throughout the season. Hotels outside of the park—including the  Gray Wolf Inn  and  Three Bear Lodge —tend to also offer winter packages that feature discount accommodations and winter activities. You can save as much as $50 per night on accommodations by visiting Yellowstone during winter instead of the peak summer season.

Check Prices for Gray Wolf Inn and Suites in West Yellowstone

By visiting Greece in winter, travelers can save big on airfare and accommodations, and also experience the country as the locals do. Visitation drops off in fall, and by winter, there are very few tourists, leaving hotels and archaeological sites such as the Acropolis nearly empty. Convinced? Check out fare deals to Athens from Airfarewatchdog .

Greece’s Mediterranean climate remains sunny and pleasant, with temperatures in the 50s in Athens and the islands—although it will be colder and even snowy in the mountains. Contrary to popular belief, the islands don’t shut down completely, though fewer hotels will be open.

Carnival , known as Apokreas in Greek, is observed in Greece as much as in New Orleans and the Caribbean. For nearly a month in January and February, Greeks celebrate nightly with eating, drinking, and dancing. Events heighten on the weekends, with outdoor music, dance performances, and float parades. Celebrations occur all around Greece, particularly in Athens, Patras, Tyrnavo, and the islands Skyros and Thassos.

Although it’s mostly overlooked by foreign visitors, skiing has become popular in Greece. The country has 19 ski resorts in destinations including Kalavrita, Pelion, Delphi, the Peloponessos, Macedonia, and Epirus. Downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding are all available.

Check Prices for Herodion Hotel in Athens

In general, the entire continent of Europe is considered to be in its off-peak season in winter, so you’ll see significant savings in comparison to peak summer prices around the region. Check out our article on travel to winter off-season travel Europe here .

Quebec Provence, Canada

Montreal and the surrounding destinations in Quebec make for an easy winter weekend getaway from the northeastern U.S. It’s a cinch to skip the airport security line (plus any possible winter-weather flight delays) and drive or take the train from the Northeast to the Canadian city. Monitor prices on Airfarewatchdog to Montreal or Quebec City for the latest air deals.

Nightly hotel rates at many properties are significantly more affordable during colder months. We spotted heavily discounted winter rates at the glitzy Ritz-Carlton Montreal on weekdays in January, February, and March. On top of those low-season rates, travelers can snag additional savings with deals offered on the tourism board’s website .

Here’s even more incentive to visit this season: There’s tons to do in Montreal during winter, from  Montreal en Lumiere (including the famous Nuit blanche a Montreal) to the annual family-friendly  Fete des Neiges de Montreal winter event. Nearby Quebec City also offers plenty of winter festival fun with the famous Quebec Winter Carnival .

Find abundant winter outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, downhill skiing, and more at nearby mountains like Mount Orford and Mount Tremblant . Plus, the Canadians do après-ski best with Nordic spas, warming yurts, mulled wine, fondue, and more.

Check Prices for Hotel Ambrose in Montreal

Bonus Destinations for Affordable Travel in February: Paris, France; Austin, Texas; and Iceland.

Wave Season

While this isn’t technically an off-peak destination, we’d be doing you a disservice if we didn’t mention the most popular and best time of year to book a cruise for value. “Wave season” runs from January thru March, and is typically when seasoned cruisers book their trip for the year. You aren’t necessarily guaranteed to get the cheapest price; but during this period, many cruise lines offer hard-to-resist incentives like free upgrades, onboard credit, reduced fares, longer booking windows, and other free perks.

What to Wear Traveling in Winter

You don’t have to sacrifice style when it comes to dressing warm and comfortably. Check out some of our favorite styles this season that’ll keep you looking stylish (and warm) all season long.

Women’s Winter Outfit for Fun

Shop the look.

Blanket Scarf

Leather Tote

Oversized Crew

Winter Bootie

Men’s winter outfit for fun.

Classic Sneaker

Cashmere Hat

Editor’s note: This article has been edited from research and information from multiple older articles in order to give you the most up-to-date content. Ashley Rossi, Christine Sarkis, Jessica Labrencis, Molly Feltner, and Caroline Costello contributed to this article.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The 10 Cheapest Places to Fly Right Now
• 6 Reasons to Visit Europe in Winter
• 18 Winter Travel Tips for Flights and Road Trips

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on   Twitter   and   Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

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The 7 Best Off-Season Places to Travel This Winter

Fewer crowds, lower prices and more access.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

After a busy summer of travel, many people may want to embrace a more low-key vibe this winter . Seeking out popular destinations off-season is a great way to ensure fewer crowds, lower prices and better access to attractions and restaurants. Off-season travel, which involves visiting a well-trodden place when there is less tourist activity, typically because of weather, is a good strategy for enjoying bucket list spots in a more affordable, less stressful way. For many destinations, including Europe, the off-season period kicks off in September and runs through the December holidays. According to Hopper , travelers can save as much as 30 percent off peak summer flight prices just by traveling in September or later.

While there are plenty of places to enjoy during the off-season, travelers tend to benefit most from destinations that are busier during the spring and summer, like Japan or Mexico, or places that draw people to beachside resorts. Here are some of the best off-season places to travel this winter.

The 5 Best Places to Travel in January

1. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

• Best For:  families, friend groups, sweater obsessives
• Off-Season Pros:  moody vibes, local feel, hotel deals
• Off-Season Cons: gray skies, bad weather for swimming
• Where to Stay: Classic Cape Cottage (from $140/night; sleeps 4), Nauset Heights Cottage (from $330/night; sleeps 4), Beach Glass Cottage (from $199/night; sleeps 7)

Winter in Cape Cod can be chilly and gray, but there’s still plenty to see and do, including beach walks, Christmas celebrations and museums that are blissfully free of crowds. Popular destinations include Provincetown, Wellfleet, Nantucket and Orleans, although you can find cozy, charming B&Bs and inns scattered all over the Cape. High Pointe Inn , in West Barnstable, is open year-round, while Gabriel’s Provincetown Inn features winter-ready fireplaces and soaking tubs. Explore the John F. Kennedy Museum or the Sandwich Glass Museum , or bundle up for a stroll along the Cape Cod Rail Trail . The seafood obsession also doesn’t stop just because it’s winter—look for beloved spots like The Beachcomber, Skipper Chowder House and Lobster Pot to indulge in lobster rolls, local oysters and clam chowder.

2. Santorini, Greece

• Best For:  families, couples, relaxation junkies
• Off-Season Pros:  fewer crowds, resort deals
• Off-Season Cons:  off-season closures, cool weather, unavailable boat trips
• Where to Stay: Cave Home (from $534/night; sleeps 6) Scorpios Beach Hotel (inquire for rates), Caldera Premium Villas (from $394/night)

Peak tourist season in Santorini runs through September, but the late fall and winter are a perfect time to enjoy the rugged Greek island without crowds blocking your every move. Airlines typically offer lower flights during that time period and the resorts became much more affordable thanks to cooler weather and shorter days. While you may not want to sunbathe, Santorini’s cliffside towns, Fira and Oia , remain lively, with cafés and restaurants open all year (watching the sunset in Oia is the island most popular attraction). Visitors can also hike, tour wineries like Santos Wines or take a boat tour around the famed Caldera. Book a room at the tranquil, tucked away Scorpios Beach Hotel or rent one of the Caldera Premium Villas , which offer views of the water. To take full advantage of Greece off-season, add Mykonos to your itinerary, or opt for a few days in Athens before or after.

3. Tokyo, Japan

• Best For:  solo travelers, families, nerds
• Off-Season Pros:  less tourists, easier to get restaurant reservations
• Off-Season Cons:  cold weather, busy around Christmas
• Where to Stay: Agora Tokyo Ginza (from $189/night), The Blossom Hibiya (from $281/night), Trunk Hotel (from $341/night), Conrad Tokyo (from $373/night)

Tokyo is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, but the spring and summer months can be overly crowded and, frankly, overwhelming in the Japanese capital. Although the weather can be chilly, late fall and winter are a great time to visit instead, especially when you can seek out hotel and flight deals during off-peak times. Book a room at the recently-opened Trunk Hotel , which offers easy access to Shibuya and Omotesando, or go for a splurge at the Conrad Tokyo , which caters to families. There’s a lot to experience in Tokyo , but some of the highlights include Tokyo National Museum , Tsukiji Fish Market, teamLab Planets , Mori Art Museum , and Golden Gai, a collection of lively alleyway bars. Delicious food is also plentiful, from ramen to tempura to sushi, and you really can’t go wrong (but do queue for Nemuro Hanamaru Ginza , one of the most sought-after sushi conveyer belt restaurants in town).  

4. Tulum, Mexico

• Best For:  adventurers, couples, nature lovers
• Off-Season Pros:  less tourists, warm weather
• Off-Season Cons:  possible rain, busy around Christmas
• Where to Stay: Hotelito Azul (from $259/night), Jungle Villa (from $190/night; sleeps 2), Luxury Apartment (from $80/night; sleeps 5), La Zebra (from $265/night)

Tulum maintains a steady temperature of 80 degrees F during the winter, making it an ideal off-season getaway for those seeking some sun. The prices tend to increase from December, so plan a trip in early winter when hotels lower their prices and offer deals for longer stays. Skip the bigger resorts and book into a boutique property like La Zebra , a beachside spot with an expansive spa. While you can certainly spend your trip relaxing by the pool, Tulum itself boasts impressive Mayan ruins and a charming downtown. Nearby, go for a swim in the Gran Cenote, visit beloved beach Playa Paraíso or take a drive to snorkel in Akumal. The food in Tulum is top-notch these days—seek out Moro , Hartwood and NÜ Tulum , which reopens in October 2023. 

5. Geneva, Switzerland

• Best For:  couples, solo travelers, culture buffs
• Off-Season Pros:  fewer crowds, Christmas markets, hotel deals
• Off-Season Cons: cold weather, seasonal restaurant closures
• Where to Stay: CitizenM Geneva (from $204/night), Hotel Rotary Geneva – MGallery (from $293/night), The New Midi (from $174/night), Mandarin Oriental Geneva (from $882/night)

While many people jet to Switzerland in the wintertime to take advantage of Alpine skiing , the country’s cities tend to be far less crowded, with lots to see and do. Geneva, known as the home of the United Nations, is a great pick off-season since most travelers simply use it as a stopover on the way to Chamonix. Because of its proximity to France and its international vibe, the city boasts cuisine from around the world, including vibrant Peruvian spot Yakumanka and La Buvette Bains des Pâquis , located on a swimming pier. Visitors can explore museums like the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Musée d'Art et d'Histoire , or take a guided walking tour of Geneva’s old town. Enjoy scenic views of the Rhône river from the rooms at the Mandarin Oriental Geneva , a recently-revamped property that frequently has packages on offer. Nearby, Lausanne is home to the Olympic Museum and a popular Christmas market that runs from the end of November.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

• Best For:  solo travelers, groups of friends, nature lovers
• Off-Season Pros:  northern lights, fewer crowds, flight deals
• Off-Season Cons:  extremely dark, cold weather
• Where to Stay: Exeter Hotel (from $255/night), Home in Reykjavik (from $138/night; sleeps 3), Iceland Parliament Hotel (from $432/night), Reykjavik Edition (from $638/night)

Iceland has become one of the top international destinations for travelers over the past five years, thanks in part to its incredible landscape and plethora of outdoor activities. Although daylight is in short supply in the winter, the off-season can be a great time to experience Reykjavik , Iceland’s main city. Not only do you have a good chance of spotting the northern lights, but there are natural hot springs throughout the island country, including the famed Blue Lagoon . Grab a room at the harborside The Reykjavik Edition or opt for the centrally-located Iceland Parliament Hotel . Nearby, the Pósthús Food Hall & Bar is great for a low-key lunch before exploring Rainbow Street and The National Gallery of Iceland . If you want to get outdoors in the snow, take a day trip to Thingvellir National Park or Hraunfossar.

7. Tuscany, Italy

• Best For:  couples, families, foodies
• Off-Season Pros:  fewer crowds, hotel and flight deals
• Off-Season Cons:  wineries may be closed, cold weather
• Where to Stay: Golden Tower Hotel & Spa (from $727/night), Iris Cottage Villa (from $115/night; sleeps 6), Renovated Apartment in Medieval Village (from $102/night; sleeps 6)

Your dream of renting a Tuscan villa is even more achievable off-season, with lower prices and the cozy vibe of winter. The region of Tuscany , which includes Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Livorno, is just as compelling during the cooler months as it is in the summer—and with far less tourists at iconic attractions like the Uffizi Galleries and the Leaning Tower of Pisa . A trip to the area can be tailored to the preferences of any traveler, whether you prefer to explore a city like Florence or to unwind in the countryside. Splurge on a stay in real-life castle Castello di Vicarello , a luxury hotel that welcomes guests in all seasons, or make the actual villa from Under the Tuscan Sun your holiday home. While some of the local wineries shut down for the winter, there is plenty to eat and drink at every turn and you can even try your hand at truffle hunting .

The 25 Best Winter Vacations in the U.S.

25 Best Destinations to Travel in December

Traveling in December can be rewarding in multiple ways.

Between Thanksgiving and New Year's, many find themselves too busy to hop on a plane or hit the road beyond visiting family. But those who plan ahead will often find places less crowded with tourists than, say, the summer season as well as heavily discounted rates for hotels, flights and more if you squeeze in a trip before Christmas.

And you'll be pleasantly surprised that the holiday spirit is in full swing in many of these best destinations to travel in December.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.  

Nuremberg, Germany

The Bavarian city of Nuremberg truly comes to life in December when its world-renown Christkindlesmarkt opens. 

Since 1530 this pre-Christmas market has transformed Main Market Square into a festive atmosphere filled with holiday trinkets and the scent of hot, mulled wine. It's impossible not to feel the Christmas spirit when strolling its ancient streets and squares.

Where to Stay

Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg, a Marriott property, is located near the rail station, which is perfect for arriving by train.

The neighborhood is filled with shops and restaurants while the building itself dates back more than 120 years and is a timeless grand hotel.

Book here .

Vail, Colorado

Colorado's Rocky Mountain peaks beckon skiers and boarders for fun on the slopes, but most wait until after the holidays to visit. Ski resorts, however, open in December and offer special early bird rates for those looking to enjoy some of the best runs without the crowds.

Vail, in particular, provides an alpine village that resembles Europe where you'll see Bavarian-type architecture nestled right up to the mountain and charming cobbled streets packed with boutiques.

For the best of the slopes, stay at the Lodge at Vail, a RockResort, which offers ski-in, ski-out accommodations along with a ski valet to make your visit even sweeter. Just wake, grab your skis and go!

At the end of the day, aprés ski is in full effect just steps from the hotel, or simply sit on your hotel room balcony and watch the stragglers descend down Pepe's Face.

Yellowstone National Park

Overly crowded during the summer months, winter is a perfect time to explore Yellowstone. Not only are the crowds gone, but you'll also get to employ unique measures to explore the park, namely snowmobiles and snow coaches.

The park's famous geysers become more picturesque in the snow as well, creating turquoise pools of water rising from the earth that is surrounded by snow. 

One of only two properties open in Yellowstone during the winter months is Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, which provides first-hand access to miles of backcountry ski trails and the nearby hot springs and the Northern Range.

The hotel closes for its fall season on Nov. 1 but reopens for its winter guests on Dec. 15, often with great deals before the holidays.

December may be the start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but in the Southern Hemisphere, spring is just beginning. And so begins the Antarctica cruise season.

Aboard an exploratory cruise ship, cross the Drake Passage and visit the Antarctic Peninsula, where penguins by the thousands can be spotted. (You may also catch whales breeching nearby!)

A cruise ship is the only accommodation when visiting Antarctica. Lindblad Expeditions is the pioneer of cruises to this part of the world having launched the first more than 50 years ago.

Partnering with National Geographic, expect the cruise to be a safari of sorts as you discover and learn about the unique landscape and its wildlife.

Cape Town, South Africa

Again, the Southern Hemisphere is a great way to get away from the chill descending upon the Northern Hemisphere, and one of the hottest spots to be is the tip of Africa in Cape Town. From vineyards to beachfronts, a cosmopolitan city to its rugged mountains for hiking, Cape Town has it all.

During the holidays, Cape Town books up with travelers wanting to spend New Year's at the beach, but deals can be found before the rush of people arrive.

At the AC Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront, you can enjoy waterfront sunset views while still being steps from the array of shops and restaurants.

A Marriott hotel, the property rests within the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront district, which is another lively entertainment spot for visitors.

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires (there's actually a lot more!), Prague is another fairytale setting when dusted with a light coating of snow. 

The early setting sun may make the days shorter, but at night, Prague's bridges, churches and castles are aglow to add to the romantic ambiance.

Located within minutes of Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge in Lesser Town, the Aria Hotel is a music-inspired boutique property in the Embassy neighborhood.

Each of its 51 rooms and suites is decorated in its own musical stylings, and the five-star property's private manicured gardens are protected by UNESCO. 

Budapest, Hungary

This Eastern European capital is also illuminated in the evening, and the place to see the light best is from along the Danube River that divides the former Buda and Pest. You'll witness the monumental architecture lit in the darkness, including Budapest Castle, the city's many bridges and its stately Parliament Building.

Hungarian Baths are found around the city and provide hot springs in which to soak under the stars (or the falling snow) for a December getaway like no other.

Like Prague, Aria Budapest is a sister hotel providing another five-star location with music-themed rooms decorated with velvet-covered furnishings and decadence at every turn.

The hotel is steps from a Christmas Market situated at the foot of St. Stephen's Basilica, which you can view from Aria's rooftop restaurant and bar.

Quebec City, Canada

You don't need to travel to Europe to find the picturesque settings of yesteryear when you can cross the U.S. border and find a touch of Europe in Old Quebec. Founded by the French, it has two "levels" of shop-filled streets winding around the iconic Chateau du Frontenac that sits sentinel overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.

In the winter, take a toboggan ride along the same track that has been making people squeal since 1884. If you visit for the New Year, ice sculptures, a winter Ferris wheel and fireworks are all part of the fun.

You could stay at the Chateau, but instead, enjoy a cozy room across the street in the Auberge Place d'Armes. The original building architecture goes back more than 400 years, and although renovated and modernized, it provides old-fashioned charm.

There are just 20 rooms in this two-story hotel with dining on the ground floor. Plus, you can look upon the Chateau for the better view.

Kyoto, Japan

Witness the snow falling gently upon Kyoto, when tourism has dropped along with hotel prices. The area is filled with skiers heading to Hirogawara, the only ski resort within the city's limits.

The city is also home to hot springs, and a visit to an "onsen" (hot springs) in the open air provides a combination of hot and cold experiences with the mountain views in the backdrop.

Hotel Granvia Kyoto is located directly above the train station to make it easy to reach upon arrival. More than 530 rooms can be found in this massive and contemporary property.

You'll have views of Kyoto Tower from floor-to-ceiling windows in rooms and suites that are thoroughly modern. 

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Known as Christmas City, the little town of Bethlehem is found between Philadelphia and New York in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. Founded on Christmas Eve in 1741 by Moravians, Bethlehem comes to life during December.

Stroll brick-lined sidewalks, and see the historic homes open during special holiday tours. The town's history as a leading steel manufacturer is still seen with the old Steel Stacks factory illuminated, and it's home to the largest Christmas market in the U.S.

The historic Hotel Bethlehem rests on the site where a hotel was first opened in 1741 and remains the grand dame of Bethlehem, standing tall above Main Street and the historic district.

During the holidays, the hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland and hosts a number of galas and events, including an annual New Year's Eve party. 

St. Petersburg, Russia

With its snowy white background, St. Petersburg, Russia, offers splashes of color with its pastel, Candyland-style architecture that will make you feel as if you entered a fairytale.

The pastel-colored buildings topped with golden domes harken back to a period when the Czars and their families lived in the great palaces and frequented the Baroque churches. A December visit becomes even more magical when all is decorated for the holidays.

The State Hermitage Museum, founded in 1764, is the second-largest museum in the world. You can stay at its Official Hotel, connected directly to the former palace.

Added in 2013, guests receive VIP entrance into the museum and can just imagine the luxuries of court life while staying at the artfully decorated hotel.

Newport Beach, California

Visit Orange County, California, the week before Christmas, and you'll find a parade that goes back more than a century. For five days, boats in the harbor are decked in yuletide cheer for the annual event.

What's not to love about a visit to the oceanside town in December when you can also enjoy the California sunshine and wonderful beach views?

A destination hotel, Hyatt Regency Newport Beach spans 26 acres overlooking Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve.

Spend your day in one of three swimming pools or on a nine-hole golf course, and in the evening, you can even glimpse the boat parade from your perch.

Hollywood, Florida

On the opposite U.S. coast, you can find another holiday boat parade at the Seminole Hard Rock's Winterfest Boat Parade.

The South Florida event extends 12 miles, but when you aren't enjoying the tour of decorated boats, you are minutes from Fort Lauderdale and its fabulous shopping and dining on Las Olas Boulevard and A1A.

Stay at the Seminole Hard Rock, the host of Winterfest, and you can also enjoy special Winterfest events and a black-tie ball. 

The resort offers multiple swimming pools, a casino and entertainment venues for live music — this  is  a Hard Rock after all.

Salzburg, Austria

The hills are alive in the winter months in Salzburg, and in December, the quaint Bavarian city's historic buildings, fortress and gardens become a holiday wonderland.

You'll find Christmas markets here as well, but even without its holiday charm, Salzburg is magical. A musical city — the birthplace of Mozart — it feels as if classical music pours from every building.

Stay at the riverfront Hotel Sacher with its commanding views of the Salzburg Fortress. This historic five-star hotel has welcomed royalty and celebrities for decades, and there is luxury at every turn.

It's not the home to the original Sacher Torte, created at the Hotel Sacher in Vienna, but you'll still enjoy the famed Austrian cake — a must-have while visiting.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, located in France's Alsace region that expands into Germany, rests beside the Rhine River and offers winding streets of French Normandy-style homes and buildings.

The fairytale city's Romanesque cathedral is more than 1,000 years old, and surrounding it in December are more of the trinket-filled Christmas markets found across Europe.

Although there are many hotels in which to choose in Strasbourg, consider a Rhine River cruise aboard Uniworld River Cruises. Not only will it stop at intimate towns decorated for the holidays, but the two-story barge ships are also opulent in every way.

The all-inclusive cruises provide your meals and entertainment when you aren't exploring riverside towns of Germany and France.

Stowe, Vermont

Back in the U.S., head into Northern Vermont's Green Mountains for one of the best winter getaways in New England. Stowe, home to the ski resort of the same name, is a place to spend your days on the slopes and your nights by a fire.

The pines of Vermont get covered with snow early in December, so winter fun-seekers can get an early start (and discounts).

Formerly Stowe Mountain Resort, Spruce Peak offers ski-in/ski-out facilities along with a choice of hotel rooms and suites or vacation homes for accommodations.

The family-friendly resort provides programs for children, ski lessons, ice skating, snowshoeing, horseback riding, dog sledding and sleigh rides. Of course, leading up to the holidays, the resort is decked out in holiday cheer.

Lake Placid, New York

Across the border in New York awaits the winter destination of Lake Placid, home to not one but two winter Olympic games.

Whiteface Mountain becomes the place to be for slope-side activities in the Adirondack Mountains, while in the heart of town are ice skating, an Olympic museum and utterly cute restaurants and shops open year-round. Don't miss Santa's Workshop at the mountain.

Be surrounded by Adirondack Park at the Whiteface Lodge, a luxurious log cabin resort getaway. 

When not enjoying the spoils of Lake Placid, the resort features year-round swimming, ice skating, bonfires and s'mores, and activities for the entire family throughout the day.

Azores, Portugal

December is a great time for an island getaway, and the remote archipelago of Portugal known as the Azores is just the spot. December is the end of hurricane season and, although it can get chilly at night, makes a good month for travel.

Due to the Azores' dramatic mountains and sea landscapes along with culture-rich towns, many people who visit these islands enjoy hiking and exploring the rugged landscape.

Located in Portas Do Mar, the Azur Hotel overlooks the marina and is within walking distance from Ponta Delgada, where you can spend your time roaming the city center and sampling Portuguese foods.

Of course, the main draw of rooms at this property are the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Visiting Colonial Williamsburg is a chance to step into the past, with costumed re-enactors in historic buildings showcasing what life was like in Colonial America. And that definitely includes the holiday season.

Visiting in December means fewer crowds and a chance to see what a Christmas was like during the 1700s through decorations, seasonal programming and, yes, Christmas feasts.

Stay at the main property of Colonial Williamsburg, the Williamsburg Inn. Located in the heart of the old village, this beautiful hotel gets adorned for the season. If there happens to be a white Christmas, you'll be even luckier to call it home for a few nights.

Rooms and restaurants are elegantly decorated in Regency style to match the surroundings but with modern amenities at every turn.

If you have always wanted to witness the phenomenon that is the Northern Lights, from December through March is when they are most often caught dancing above Iceland.

The island's hot springs, such as the renowned Blue Lagoon, can also be enjoyed during the cold months even as snow falls upon you.

Alda Hotel gives you a chance to stay in the capital and largest city in Iceland: Reykjavik. The boutique property is located on Laugavegur Street, where the hippest restaurants, shops and entertainment can be found.

Of course, in order to have the best Northern Lights views, you'll need to leave the city at night, which is easy to do with Thingvellir National Park just right outside the city limits.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Before Nantucket practically shuts down to tourism until the spring, you can enjoy a wintery visit right before the holidays when the idyllic island is covered in garland and bows.

Most restaurants and shops remain open through New Year, and although the beaches will be whipping with chilly ocean winds, the quiet early winter environment gives a truer sense of what it is like to live on the island.

Just steps from the ferry within Nantucket town is the Nantucket Hotel, a family-friendly New England property.

With a decor straight out of a beach-cottage stylebook, you'll find Nantucket Hotel is the only year-round property and offers holiday dinners, New Year's Eve parties, fire pits and hot tubs to warm up your stay.

Walt Disney World Resort, Florida

Yes, Walt Disney World Resort is in Orlando, but it's really Disney that's the draw during this time of year. Disney is a year-round destination, but with so many guests visiting with children, the school-year dates keep ticket sales down. This means a December visit (pre-Christmas) can be rewarding, with less time standing in lines and special deals.

As Disney always does, it goes all out during the holiday season and features Christmas-themed parades, activities and decor — they even make it snow in Florida!

Arguably the prettiest of the Disney World properties, the Grand Floridian overlooks the Magic Kingdom with private boats that deliver you to the gates. From this hotel, you can even see the nightly fireworks that go off at Cinderella's Castle (perfect for when you have little ones that need to go to bed early).

The hotels, like the theme parks, get decorated to the nines, and inside this Victorian-styled resort is a life-size gingerbread house of Victorian design to match.

St. Croix, Virgin Islands

Americans don't need a passport to jet off to the Caribbean when they're visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you're wanting a last warm-weather gasp before winter descends, the islands will definitely give you a good dose of sun.

The more remote of the USVI, St. Croix is also the largest of the island collection and home to the only underwater national park, Buck Island Reef National Park.

The Buccaneer is a family-owned property that was founded in the 17th century and has four generations of history in its main buildings. Built on a former sugar plantation, the resort offers white-sand beaches and plenty of ocean views.

You can even take a historical tour around the property with a staff guide who showcases the gardens, plantation life and St. Croix history.

Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" is one of the most beloved stories of the holidays, so it goes without saying that spending time in England during December could be Dickensesque. 

The city's shops feature holiday windows, lights are strewn from park trees and holiday cheer abounds with ice skating rinks and Christmastime events taking place throughout the month.

London's Mayfair neighborhood is one of the toniest in the city and located within steps of high-end shops and London's best parks. There are also many five-star hotels located here, including The May Fair by Radisson Collection.

The hotel originally opened in 1927 and remains the epitome of high society, so live it up and enjoy the glitz and glamour.

When it comes to pre-holiday hotspots, New York takes the cake. From the moment the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade makes its way down Fifth Avenue until the ball drops in Times Square on New Year's Eve, this city is the place to be for shopping and holiday cheer.

Crowds are going to be plentiful if you visit, especially while shopping or visiting Rockefeller Center and Central Park. Still, there isn't anything more romantic than Manhattan in December.

Hotels are a dime a dozen in the city, but a favorite is the Archer Hotel, found near the Empire State Building and Bryant Park.

This boutique property offers rooms with direct, unobstructed views of the Empire State Building, as does its rooftop bar. The key to visiting the city when it is crowded is to make your way to these hidden rooftops after a long day to enjoy the views.

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The best holiday destinations in December

By Sarah James

Forget summertime: December just might be the best time of year to travel. There are the Christmas classics: the scent of mulled wine and freshly fallen snow wafting from NYC to Berlin , or salty-aired, sun-kissed treats such as St Barth’s. Off-season surprises include Fiji and Madagascar; for a limited time only, these are a (relative) bargain. And with the sunny season in full swing Down Under, it’s an ideal time to discover Australia’s most unlikely success story. Plus, our tips on how to do it all as sustainably as possible.

Scotland, UK

Temperature in December: 7°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Flight time from London: 1 hour 15 minutes Time difference: GMT+0

Sure, when the sun shines on Scotland , it’s sublime. But there’s also a lot to love about this raw and rugged land in the cold. Nothing is cosier than a few wee drams by a roaring fire after a busy day out in the elements – be that fat-biking East Lothian beaches, or tracking red deer across the Cairngorms’ snow-dusted slopes. Edinburgh in December is, of course, raucously festive, and winter’s a great time to appreciate the hearty fare of the city's best restaurants. Top of the list should be Tom Kitchin’s Michelin-starred Leith restaurant, The Kitchin, celebrating Scottish produce, followed by his elevated pub grub at Stockbridge’s The Scran and Scallie.

Sustainable travel tip: Road-tripping around Scotland’s vast wilderness is tempting, but consider a railway holiday instead. Chugging along the West Highland Line, you’ll be on one of the UK's most scenic train journeys .

Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the latest newcomer to the thriving Edinburgh hotel scene, and a modern relative to the beloved Gleneagles in Perthshire. For a private stay with a cracking location, this cosy city-centre loft overlooks the Royal Mile, and is one of our favourite Airbnbs in Edinburgh .

Temperature in December: 30ºC high; 25ºC low Season: Dry season Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT +5

If tropical indolence is what you seek then the Maldives is, let’s face it, heaven at any time of year. But December, which marks the start of the dry season, sees the islands at their best: low rainfall, low humidity, a lovely dry heat, lots of sunshine… You can go swimming with whale sharks and manta rays (at South Ari and the western edges of the atolls). Plus in December (until March) there’s the bonus of a direct flight from the UK to Malé with British Airways, transporting you from cold, dark Britain to the heat and light of the Indian Ocean in as little as 10 hours, and giving you as much as an extra day of beach time.

Sustainable travel tip: While flying to the Maldives presents unavoidable carbon issues, you can minimise your footprint by choosing a resort that has real sustainability practices . Read up thoroughly to check it’s not just paying lip service. Choose dives and day trips with responsible outfits, which contribute to conservation – and be sure not to touch corals or living creatures.

Where to stay: Where indeed. There's plenty to love within our list of the best hotels in the Maldives . For somewhere shiny and new, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is the latest addition to the archipelago, with 80 villas split between over water (sunrise or sunset) and beach (properly hidden from each other by leafy vegetation) as well as two restaurants. For a classic crowd pleaser, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has a hard to beat location, with only over water villa accommodation ensuring the island stays wild and the beaches are on full dazzling display.

New York City, USA

Temperature in December: 8°C high; -3°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: GMT-5

Christmas in New York City is a no-brainer. The scene is cinematically festive, from ice-skating under the Rockefeller Center tree to theatrical window displays in Fifth Avenue department stores. And if you thought your neighbours tried to outdo you every year with the Christmas lights, spare a thought for the residents of Brooklyn ’s Dyker Heights. The houses here are so extravagantly bedecked, there’s an official bus tour of the most outrageous blocks. Better still, New York's best hotels serve warming nips by a crackling lobby fire: plump for The Ludlow’s Pigalle cocktail, with bourbon and ancho chile.

Sustainable travel tip: New York traffic is notorious, but thanks to the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway – a 31-mile bicycle route around the island – you can navigate the Big Apple by bike-share scheme ( Citi Bike stations are found all over town).

Where to stay: It's now possible to find a slice of serenity in midtown thanks to the newly opened Aman New York . Not only is it a great location for a quick trip, but ideal in winter too – all suites come with working fireplaces. For a classic Christmas stay, book a sort-after room at The Plaza , which enjoys beautiful views over Central Park.

Venice, Italy

Temperature in December: 7ºC high; 0ºC low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

The Floating City could be the most beautiful place in Italy , but it’s difficult to know for sure, given its gorgeous visage is always crawling with tourists. Apart from in December, that is, when no one thinks to go. You might imagine the lagoons are best when sparkling under a summer sun, but that, friend, just shows a lack of imagination: watching an icy fog curl spookily from the water’s surface is really quite something. You might even get super-lucky and see snow. Better than that, you can walk through St Mark’s without landing a selfie stick in the eye.

Sustainable travel tip: Visiting out of season is a good start. But one of the biggest problems with over-tourism in Venice is that a lot of people tend to come just for the day, hitting up only the major, over-stuffed sights, and thus bringing little benefit to locals. Instead, spend a few nights in the city, slowly exploring its hidden corners, eating at neighbourhood restaurants and shopping in small, independent stores. It’s not just better for the city, it makes for a much better holiday, too.

Where to stay: Ca'di Dio has knockout lagoon views and chic interiors. For a lively dining scene, Il Palazzo Experimental is the place to be at aperitivo hour. See our pick of the best hotels in Venice for more.

St Barth's, Caribbean

Temperature in December: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: cool Flight time from UK: 12 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

Simply everyone is in St Barth's in December. Partly because the island is the original discreet-A-lister's sunny paradise of choice with the world's most perfect beaches, restaurants, hotels and villas, and partly because everyone else is. The super-rich, the super-famous, the beautiful and the blessed. Fail to book your December holiday here and you've only got yourself to blame for off-the-charts FOMO as you sit looking out at the rain and scrolling through shots of simply everyone else laughing through perfect teeth on the world's most perfect beaches.

Sustainable travel tip: Hotel Manapany is powered by solar panels. This chic beachside retreat also has an onsite vegetable garden and orchard, sources its seafood from local fishermen, and even offers electric-car rentals.

Where to stay: Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf offers a chic and easy French beach house stay. Another highlight is Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France , an elegant grande dame of St Barth’s sprawled along Flamands beach. See our guide to the best hotels in St Barth's for more.

Zermatt, Swiss Alps

Temperature in December: 2°C high; -6°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

The sort of snowy-mountain scene that dream Christmases are made of. Horse-drawn sleighs, twinkling trees, glühwein stalls, a pretty village aglow in a lovely little valley beneath the Matterhorn. And, importantly, snow-sure slopes – 200 astoundingly pretty kilometres of them – from the start of December. All of which makes Zermatt one of Europe's best ski resort .

Sustainable travel tip: What better way to arrive at a car-free resort than by train? Plus, the last leg of the journey features a ride through the stunning valley of Mattertal on a narrow-gauge railway. Hop off the Eurostar from London in Paris (2.5 hours) and catch a high-speed TGV to Lausanne (3.5 hours). From here, at least two trains per hour whisk you to Visp in 90 minutes, and then it’s the narrow-gauge ride to Zermatt (just over an hour).

Where to stay: Zermatt's oldest hotel, the Monte Rosa , sits in a picture-perfect property with amazing views.

Above: Skiers and snowboarders on the Matterhorn.

Temperature in December: 26ºC high; 16ºC low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 6 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT +4

For a winter-sun tinselfest, nobody does it bigger and brighter and sparklier than Dubai. From November to January the weather cools to a more bearable 19-25ºC and the sun shines practically all the time; and in December there's the Rugby Sevens and a film festival, pre-Christmas designer sales and record-breaking Christmas trees groaning under the weight of lights and Swarovski crystals, for those who like that kind of thing. Everyone says they don't, then they go to Dubai and find that they kind of do.

Sustainable travel tip: Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, set among the wind-tower architecture of the Al Fahidi Historic District, by Dubai Creek. Here, share a traditional lunch with Emirati hosts and ask anything you’re curious to know about local culture, attitudes and Islam. The centre’s tagline: ‘Open doors. Open minds’.

Where to stay: For low-key luxe rooms and a private island setting, check in to the understated Bulgari Resort Dubai . If you're here to indulge in the beach and restaurant scene, Mandarin Oriental Dubai has both plus a high-achieving spa. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Dubai .

Milan, Italy

Temperature in December: 7°C high; 1°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: GMT+1

You might think Italy’s fashion capital too cool to care about Christmas, but Milan is actually one of Europe’s most festive cities this time of year. Early December marks a unique Milanese tradition, the feast of the patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio, wherein an irresistibly twinkly market sets up in the grounds of red-brick fortress Castello Sforzesco. Shop for local foodie treats and handmade trinkets, then reward yourself with mulled wine and castagnaccio (a chestnut and pine-kernel cake). After a sashay around the famous fashion quarter, head to newly cool Zona Tortona: best for Milan’s up-and-coming galleries and design studios (not to mention brunch-time tuna tacos at God Save The Food).

Sustainable travel tip: Getting to Milan by train is super-easy: take the Eurostar from London to Paris (2.5 hours), followed by a high-speed TGV train to Milan (7 hours).

Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental is one of the hottest stays in the city, with a Michelin-star restaurant and a buzzing hotel bar. If you're here to embrace the grandeur, Four Seasons Milano is housed in a beautifully preserved 15th-century convent. See our guide to the best hotels in Milan for more.

Temperature in December: 27ºC high; 18ºC low Season: Summer Flight time from UK : 11 hours and 15 minutes Time difference: GMT+6

It’s the most peaceful and easygoing country in Central America, but Costa Rica still has bags of excitement and exoticism. Its Pacific coast draws surfers and bohemians practising yoga on its wave-crashed beaches in groovy little beach towns such as Nosara, while its gentle Caribbean shores and islands bring in backpackers and those looking for castaway escapism on its islands. In its interior: jungles, wildlife and volcanoes, with adrenaline kicks in the form of ziplining through the cloud-forest canopy, white-water rafting, hiking up volcanoes and tracking big cats in Corcovado National Park. December is prime beach weather in Costa Rica, and it’s also when humpback whales start to arrive, heading south in search of warmer waters – this is one of the best places in the world to spot them.

Sustainable travel tip: Costa Rica has a strong line in eco-lodges, from the beach to the jungle, and staying in them helps give back to local communities and conservation projects.

Where to stay: The Harmony Hotel is a Nosara institution, with its own Healing Centre (for wellness perks ranging from beach yoga classes to post-surf massages) and a lovely palm-shrouded pool.

Strasbourg, France

Temperature in December: 5ºC high; 0ºC low Season: Winter Journey time from UK: around five hours by train via Paris Time difference: GMT +1

We have Strasbourg to thank for the Christmas market . It was here that the first-ever Market of the Infant Christ took place in the 16th century. The capital of hearty-eating, wine-drinking, once-German Alsace also claims to be The Capital of Christmas. In its medieval Grande Ile – the whole historic city, with its preposterously pretty half-timbered houses, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – rosy-cheeked Alsatians glide around an ice rink, besides market stalls selling toys and trinkets, mulled wine and hot sausage. The tradition endures, though the gifts have been updated – it seems unlikely that they sold scented candles then, though those pretty houses would have benefitted from them after so many helpings of choucroute (French sauerkraut and the Strasbourg speciality, of fermented cabbage and sausage).

If you’re not making the journey just for the Christmas market – and many do – December is a good time to come for the food, in the city and beyond. Alsatian food and wine – full-bodied reds, piles of potatoes, pork in many forms, all very Germanic – is fortifying against the cold, and December is the region’s snowiest month.

Sustainable travel tip: Take the train from London instead of flying – and pack your reusable mug for takeaway gluhweins and chocolat chauds at the market, to limit throwaway cup usage.

Where to stay: In a set of half-timbered buildings, galleried around a cobbled courtyard, the Cour du Corbeau is as old and charming as the Christmas market. Top-floor suites look out across the medieval rooftops.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

Temperature in December: 27ºC high; 18ºC low Season: Spring Flight time from UK : 11 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

While showgirl Rio steals the limelight and the tourists, style capital Sao Paulo has a more savvy, insider feel. Its dynamic inhabitants are making waves in art and architecture, food and fashion – this is the place to shop for swimwear and homeware, then eat at Brazil’s most innovative restaurants. December brings warm, dry spring days, with temperatures on the rise, and there’s a real buzz about the city with lots going on (including São Paulo Art Biennial every other year) before residents decamp en masse to Trancoso or Buzios for the holiday beach parties.

Sustainable travel tip: Cool Pinheiros harbours the small and homegrown. Insecta is one of them – a sustainably-driven shoe shop selling vegan footwear locally made out of old clothes and soled with recycled rubber, and bags made from plastic bottles.

Where to stay: Sitting in 26 green acres of forested parkland in the elegant Morumbi neighbourhood, Pálacio Tangará is the city’s grandest dame. It opened in 2017, joining Hotel du Cap, Eden Rock and Le Bristol Paris as part of the Oetker Collection.

Temperature in December :24ºC high; 19ºC low Season: Winter Journey time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT -5

It may be winter, but December is Miami ’s driest month, with daytime temperatures a beach-ready 24ºC. December is also party time – and this is a city that knows how to party. And it’s not just festive fiestas, but also Art Basel Miami Beach, which means parties, launches, shows and happenings all over the place – art has never been sexier – swiftly followed by Art Gaysel, the world’s Queerest Art Fair. Even those who don’t give a fig for art can get involved in the buzz of Miami Design District. Don’t miss murals and music at Basel House .

Sustainable travel tip: Asian restaurant Kyu , which serves up zingy, elegantly plated dishes in Wynwood, supports local partnerships as well as donating trees to African countries to offset the wood they burn to grill their cauliflower, octopus and wagyu beef.

Where to stay: In the last few years a bunch of all-star design hotels have opened in Miami Beach, but Faena endures as one of the funkiest and best.

Canouan, The Grenadines

Temperature in December: 28ºC high; 21ºC low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 12 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

It’s the month to see and be seen in the Caribbean . But if you’d rather run away and hide, Canouan makes a fine place to fly under the radar. While everyone else swans around St Barth’s, you can feel smug about Canouan’s tag: ‘The place where billionaires go to get away from millionaires’. Though, thankfully, you don’t need to make ten figures to stay at this tiny island’s Mandarin Oriental , the first in the region, where an Oceanview Suite will set you back a cool four figures instead.

Sustainable travel tip: Canouan is one of only a small number of islands from which you can access Tobago Cays. The Cays are a protected archipelago of small, uninhabited islands and pristine coral reefs. They’re the major government-owned attraction in St Vincent and the Grenadines, so many local vendors and guides depend on them.

Bogota, Colombia

Temperature in December: 20ºC high; 5ºC low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 11h 10min Time difference: GMT -5

Cartagena hogs all the column inches with its Caribbean-side colonial charms, but for a contemporary sense of Colombia and its creative energies, capital Bogota is the country’s vital – and seriously overlooked – heart. The city’s reputation for rain abates in December, the beginning of the dry season, when the usually chilly climate clings pleasantly to the 20ºCs. Understandably, most make a beeline for La Candelaria, an irresistible mash-up of colonial buildings, cobbles, on-point restaurants and street art, but quietly cool Chapinero Alto is also making a name for itself: think cocktails and vinyl nights at Rin Rin, or a mansion turned multi-level boutique shopping mall, Trama Casa de Creadores. The best views? At the top of 10,000ft Cerro de Monserrate, easily reached by cable car. In December, the peak is decorated with Christmas lights, a fabulous follow-up to sunset.

Sustainable travel tip: An hour or two’s drive outside of Bogota, Chingaza National Natural Park protects residents including the rare spectacled bear, jaguars, toucans and Andean condors. The best way to see it is to book a day hike with a local guide.

Where to stay: The hushed Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota feels like a stately home. A sympathetic renovation has enshrined the historical vibe while kicking in smart contemporary elements.

Uganda, Africa

Temperature in December: 28°C high; 16°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 10 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

It’s a busy month for tourism to Uganda for good reason: landscapes are lush, but the weather is dry, making the conditions ideal for gorilla tracking. December is also a fine time for boat safaris in search of the Big Five, as animals are drawn from dry land to water sources. Still, as it is a more under-the-radar East African destination, ‘busy’ here is a relative term. Our top tip? Pair wildlife adventures with a trek into the urban jungle. The capital city Kampala is surprisingly charming, between boozy nights at the Sheraton’s well-loved Equator Bar, two-hour-roasted crocodile tail at barbecue restaurant The Lawns, and contemporary shows at Afriart Gallery.

Sustainable travel tip: Check out the Batwa Experience , which offers rainforest hikes with guides from the Batwa tribe, during which you can learn about their history and culture. The Batwa people were evicted from their homeland, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, to create the national park that protects the area’s endangered gorillas; these tours are the only chance they have to revisit their home territory.

Where to stay: At Gorilla Forest Camp , the most established lodge in the region and the only place to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. And thanks to an ongoing process of habituation and protection, it is possible to track one of four gorilla families living in the area from here.

Yellowstone, USA

Temperature in December: -4°C high; -15°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-7

The world’s first national park is packed pretty much every season outside of winter – but the crowds on those geyser-skimming boardwalks are missing a trick. December is an excellent time for wildlife-spotting, as everything from brown bears to bison pad through thick powder to hot springs for warmth. Snowcoach tours take you to all the main draws – Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone – and you can even ski or snowshoe to sights that you’ll likely have to yourself. Even better, the contrast between the serene snow scene and Yellowstone’s violent volcanic landscape (bubbling mud-pots, steaming rivers) is something you’ll never forget.

Sustainable travel tip: Consider staying in one of the national park’s winter lodges . They’ve done a lot of work on sustainability, including comprehensive recycling, composting, and energy and water conservation; farm-to-fork food; and fuel-efficient tour vehicles.

Fiji, South Pacific 

Temperature in December: 31°C high; 22°C low Season: wet Flight time from UK: 24 hours Time difference: GMT+11

There’s nowhere like Fiji to make UK -in-December gloom seem like a distant memory. Tuck your toes into its dazzling-white sands and you’re officially on Fiji time. When friendly, frangipani-decorated locals say ‘no hurries, no worries’, it’s less a catchphrase, more a way of life. December falls early in the rainy season, meaning occasional, short bursts of afternoon showers relieve the midday heat. Following 2016’s devastating Cyclone Winston, more eco-friendly, culturally aware hotels are popping up to challenge the decadent, mega-honeymoon properties: a Six Senses – set where Tom Hanks filmed Cast Away – runs on Tesla batteries and cooks using organic, locally foraged finds.

Sustainable travel tip: Getting off the beach and out of the hotel is the best way to interact with and contribute to local communities. It’s possible to take multi-day hiking trips into Fiji’s jungles and mountains, which include sleeping in homestays, visiting tribal villages and learning about authentic island life from a local guide. Check out Responsible Travel for more.

Where to stay: Nowhere is the welcoming song as heartfelt as at Likuliku Lagoon Resort . The 10 overwater bungalows here are the only ones in Fiji.

Kyoto, Japan

Temperature in December: 11°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT+8

Japan ’s favourite holiday is New Year (or Oshogatsu). And where better to join in the festivities than its former imperial capital and keeper of ancient traditions? The whole month of December sees Kyoto filled with markets and festivals: Kobo-san and Tenjin-san fleas are big favourites, held around the temples of the same name, and packed with Japanese antiques, kimonos and food carts. Held in early December, Arashiyama Hanatouro is a magical lantern festival that illuminates the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest. Don’t miss the nightly temple illuminations, either: if you get lucky, it might even snow.

Sustainable travel tip: Kyoto is one of the best bicycling cities in Asia, and many of the major temples and museums offer bicycle parking. Note, though, that it’s illegal to park a bike anywhere other than a designated area.

Where to stay: Aman Kyoto is a secret woodland treasure, with hilly woodland, sculptural paving stones, a tranquil onsen and giant wooden bathtubs.

Madagascar, Indian Ocean

Temperature in December: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: wet Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Desperate to feel a world away from dark, damp December streets? Madagascar will do the trick. The primordial island is, of course, best known for lemurs, wildly coloured chameleons and implausible creatures such as the giraffe weevil (go on, Google it). But there’s more to Madagascar’s otherworldliness than rich rainforests. Don’t miss the southern deserts’ spiny woodlands, or the near-impenetrable limestone karst warren of Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Early December is a good, off-season time to visit, before heavier rains move in later in the month. Private island Miavana , on the east coast’s Nosy Ankao, has an audacious collection of mid-century-modern, stone-cut villas, and might just be the smartest castaway escape in the world.

Sustainable travel tip: More than 70 per cent of people in Madagascar live below the poverty line, so supporting initiatives that benefit local communities here is vital. Check out initiatives such as Anja Community Reserve, a protected forest home to ring-tailed lemurs, which is managed by the people of Anja village.

Where to stay: At sensationally beautiful private-island hotel Miavana .

Krakow, Poland

Temperature in December: 3°C high; -4°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Krakow in December looks like a Christmas card. The Old Town’s medieval main square, Rynek Główny, is all cobblestones, horse-and-carriage rides, and Christmas markets dishing up dumplings and pork knuckles. Load up on artisan baubles from the stalls, then duck into one of the district’s snug cellar bars for a restorative nip of flavoured vodka (the ubiquitous cherry is fantastic). Unlike many stag-do-spoiled parts of Eastern Europe, Poland ’s second city also packs a sophisticated nightlife buzz. Tytano, an old tobacco factory, is now a complex of cool bars and restaurants (go for craft cocktails at Lastriko), while the Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, has seen its decrepit tenement buildings given new life by numerous shabby-chic bars.

Sustainable travel tip: Add an extra day to your itinerary and travel to Krakow via a scenic train journey. First, take the Eurostar from London to Brussels (about two hours), followed by a high-speed ICE3 to Cologne (2 hours) then a high-speed ICE2 to Berlin (about four hours). Next morning, catch a EuroCity train to Warsaw (about six hours), then an InterCity to Krakow (2.5 hours).

Where to stay: Bedding down in the sleek and stylish Puro Hotel places you in the heart of the Old Town.

Tasmania, Australia

Temperature in December: 23°C high; 11°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 30 hours Time difference: GMT+9

‘Tassie’ has officially made the leap from bogan to buzzing. And it’s all because of eccentric, multi-millionaire David Walsh, whose irreverent Museum of Old and New Art made headlines when it opened in 2011, due to its risqué pieces, including a plaster wall of vulvas. Now, it’s widely regarded as Australia’s best museum. With that, an edgy crowd are taking over the island and the capital, Hobart, has been transformed. Designer digs such as the sandstone Henry Jones Art Hotel are de rigueur. Revered restaurants including Franklin serve Tasmanian produce: wood-roasted octopus, raw wallaby. The island’s sparkling wine has been raking in global acclaim over the past few years, too. Drink it all at the annual Taste of Tasmania festival, which kicks off in late December, taking rich pickings from the abundant Australian summer.

Sustainable travel tip: One of the best things about Tassie is its untamed wilderness, conserved by both the Parks and Wildlife Service and its Aboriginal peoples. Don’t underestimate the Aussie bush, though: it’s best explored with local operators. The likes of Tasmanian Expeditions take care to use locally owned accommodation, local food producers and local activity suppliers, as well as protecting places of natural, historic and Aboriginal value.

Where to stay: Pumphouse Point , a decommissioned hydro-electric power station on Lake St Clair, has 180-degree views of the lake.

Berlin, Germany

Temperature in December: 4°C high; 0°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: GMT+1

There is no bad time to visit Berlin . We love the city in summer, mooching around its kooky-krazy hangouts of creative weirdness – but what a place to party in December! More kookiness in its clubs and bars and the underground haunts of its cool-as-you-like neighbourhoods; and Berlin is one of the best places to spend New Year's Eve in the world, when they throw a city-wide street party with gigs and celebrations all along the Party Mile.

Sustainable travel tip: Trust cutting-edge Berlin to have a thriving sustainable food scene. At vegan FREA, dishes are made using produce from local organic farmers, and the restaurant’s food waste is then composted and returned to those suppliers for use on their crops. For a smart ethical supper, try a 10-course tasting menu of Berlin-grown fare at Nobelhart & Schmutzig in Kreuzberg.

Where to stay: Restored Art Nouveau gem Hotel Am Steinplatz has Moorish arched windows, ornate stucco work and marble flooring.

Temperature in December: 33°C high; 22°C low Season: cool Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+4:30

Goa is love-it crazy in December. Every palm tree strung with tinsel and fairy lights, every beach bar rocking with the most beautiful happy-go-lucky just-found-themselves travellers dancing like loons, night and day. The weather is just perfect, and the parties reach fever pitch. Christmas is cause for great celebration throughout India – no more so than in Goa, garlanded and lit up with fireworks, Christmas trees and Santa hats incongruous in the heat and dust. This all rolls into New Year's Eve celebrations, with parties and raves on the beaches and bars (Goa is India's most liberal state). It gets busy, so book ahead. Avoid staying too long in Anjuna, unless you're a hardcore raver – dance til the sun comes up, then head to a quieter spot (we love Arambol, Mandrem, Palolem, all utterly dreamy) for a different kind of sunrise.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s a decent crop of hippie hangouts here serving all-organic vegetarian meals and extolling the virtues of harmony with nature. Yogamagic Eco Retreat , just inland from Anjuna, has both glamping tents and main-house rooms built from reclaimed materials (old haveli doors, furniture made from recycled teak wood or railway sleepers), the showers are solar-heated, and vegetarian and vegan meals are homegrown and locally sourced.

Where to stay: Ahilya by the Sea overlooks a bay of fishing boats in Nerul, and has an airy, beach-house vibe.

Cambodia and Laos

Temperature in December: Around 30°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: Around 15 hours Time difference: GMT+6

South-East Asia is wonderful in December, the climate just right - which does mean that yes, everyone else wants to visit then, too. But why come when it is wet and unbearably hot? Come in December, and embrace the holiday season, when places to eat and drink are buzzing, when Laos 's beautiful colonial towns (we adore Luang Prabang ) have a happy bustle to them, when Siem Reap is at its liveliest. Cambodia and Laos are big and largely empty countries, where it is always possible to find some space to yourself, even at Angkor Wat (go for sunrise, wherever possible). Yes, it might take a bit more planning and booking ahead, but there if you want to be spontaneous there is always a room in a charming teak house to be found, where birds sing in the banana trees beside the verandah.

Sustainable travel tip : Cambodia’s social-enterprise restaurants are a great way to support local communities in a long-term way, as they offer free hospitality training to young, underprivileged people, helping them forge sustainable careers. In Siem Reap, Sala Baï is a riverside restaurant created by French NGO APLC; capital Phnom Penh has Romdeng, set in a gorgeous colonial building and run by local NGO Mith Samlanh.

Where to stay: Set on a private island, Six Senses Krabey Island has 40 villas and a vast spa.

Surely nowhere is prettier in the snow than Prague . Those perfectly preserved ancient streets, like a fairytale (with a real castle!); those cinnamon-scented Christmas markets where mulled wine makes us buy weird presents and too many Christmas decorations. Pretty, yes, but Prague is also cold as hell in December, which only serves to make its richly-patterned restaurants all the cosier and justify its just-as-rich and fortifying cuisine. Sit in its Art Nouveau gilded interiors, or its underground bars, and warm yourself with roast game and booze.

Sustainable travel tip: Arriving in Prague by train entails a few quick transfers and a bonus night in Brussels. Take the Eurostar from London to the Belgian capital (two hours), stay the night, then catch a morning ICE train to Frankfurt (about three hours). Here, change onto a regional train to Cheb in the Czech Republic (4.5 hours), and then it’s a Czech express train to Prague (about three hours). You’ll arrive in time for a hearty supper and a beer.

Where to stay: The Augustine Hotel is set in a medieval astrological tower, with 360-degree views, and a suite that is at eye-level with Prague Castle.

Temperature in December: 28°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 16 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT-4

The South American beach break with a difference. Most of Uruguay 's neverending white-sand beaches are practically empty even in high season. That high season lasts just a few weeks, in December, and if you like things lively ( Ibiza , Mykonos , Trancoso style), that's when you want to come. You can still find a beach pretty much to yourself, around hippy little José Ignacio , La Barra and Punta del Este . But December is when the wooden-shack restaurants and beach bars and artsy little hotels open their shutters for the Buenos Aires party crowd who hop across the River Plate for Christmas and New Year fun.

Sustainable travel tip: Local studio MAPA Architects designed eco-boutique Sacromonte , a complex of cabins made from regionally sourced wood and stone, tucked into 250 acres of mountain landscape less than an hour from coastal town José Ignacio. It has a vineyard, two organic gardens and onsite wastewater bio-digesters, and offers guided hiking and horseback rides through the surrounding sierras.

Where to stay: Casa Anna , from Argentine chef Francis Mallman, transformed the tiny hamlet of Garzon.

The Arctic Circle

Temperature in December: -3°C high; -9°Clow Season: winter Flight time from UK: 6 hours Time difference : GMT+2

What better time to visit the North Pole than December, for Christmas? When a sleigh ride through Lapland, pulled by reindeer or huskies, is surely most unforgettable, when the glittering frozen Narnia landscapes of the Arctic Circle are most magical. And when the lightshow in the skies, the Northern Lights, playing all the colours of the spectrum over Iceland , Finland , Norway and Sweden , is at its brightest and best.

Sustainable travel tip: Experiences with the indigenous Sami people of Lapland are becoming ever-more popular, but be sure that the operator is providing a genuine connection with their culture (rather than a ‘show’). Done right, this kind of tourism helps boost a local economy that can only rely on a lucrative revenue stream – tourism – a few months of the year. Magnetic North Travel , for example, organises time with genuine reindeer herders and their families, so you get a real sense of their way of life.

Where to stay: In Swedish Lapland, check out Treehotel , where rooms are not on the ground but above it, in the trees.

Above: Icebergs floating in the Illulisat Icefjord, one of the northernmost UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Temperature in December: 29°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 11 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT+3

About 1,200 miles off the coast of Madagascar, on the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is an island nation that punches well above its weight. Often spoken about in the same breath as the Maldives, Mauritius dances to the rhythm of its own drum. The natural landscape here is some of the most beautiful in the world, with lush trails and astonishing birdlife and untouched beaches. December is summer in Mauritius, and one of the best times to visit for your own castaway adventure.

Where to stay: At the island’s most lauded hotel, LUX* Grand Baie , or old timer One&Only Le Saint Géran . See our round up of the best hotels in Mauritius for more ideas.

Temperature in December: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 8 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Pristine beaches, staggering piton peaks, glimmering waterfalls, swooping wildlife and lush rainforests – the Caribbean island of St Lucia is one of the loveliest. Dry season is from December to April, and the weather is breezier and less humid as the year draws to its close. December also sees a handful of festivals take over the island; such as the feast day of St Lucy of Syracuse, a festival of lights.

Where to stay: At palm-fringed Sugar Beach in your choice of beachfront bungalows or hillside villas. See our edit of the best hotels in St Lucia for more inspiration.

Temperature in December: 31°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 10 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT +4.5

The teardrop island has it all: gorgeous beaches, astonishing ancient ruins, lush hill country and sprawling national parks where you can embark on a safari to see elephants and leopards, oh my. This is a destination for foodies, too – as this restaurant critic's search for the best food in Sri Lanka shows. Cosmopolitan capital Colombo is buzzing, while Yala National Park is the place-to-be for animal lovers. And in December, you can expect hours of sunshine and dry days for exploring.

Where to stay: Among the best Sri Lanka hotels are chic safari lodge Wild Coast Tented Lodge and 300-year-old grand dame Amangalla .

14 Best Places to Travel in December

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Colmar, France

December can immerse you in the joyful ambiance of a white winter in the Northern Hemisphere or allow you to embrace the warmth of Southern Hemisphere summers.

Whether eager to ski or lounge on pristine white beaches, bask in a tropical hideaway or indulge in the charms of small-town Christmas festivities, travel in December offers new perspectives on traditions and landscapes.

The following information provides details of the best experiences you can have, no matter your travel preferences.

6. New Zealand

8. argentina, 9. costa rica, 10. maldives, 11. thailand, 12. sri lanka, 14. cambodia, plan your trip for december.

Rome, Italy

Temperatures: Low 40°F • High 53°F

Highlights: Culture, ancient ruins, villages, museums, wine, cuisine, scenery, winter sports, Christmas markets

Other recommended travel times: February • March • May • June • September • October

The temperate climate in December makes the entire country comfortable, with the season’s festive ambiance focusing attention on extended Christmas celebrations.

The crowds have returned home after the summer to give you a more authentic atmosphere as you uncover vibrant markets or mass at the Vatican, embrace the luxury winter-sports paradise of the Alps, or indulge in the marvelous shopping arcades and artisan crafts across the region.

Learn more: Italy Christmas Vacations & Tours • Italy Travel Guide • 5 Reasons You Should Plan a Christmas Trip to Italy

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Chamonix, France

Temperatures: Low 37°F • High 45°F

Highlights: Winter sports, culture, museums, cuisine, wine, Christmas markets

Other recommended travel times: May • June • July

December in France feels authentic. Virtually no crowds make the entire country accessible, with Christmas markets adding to the festive ambiance.

Winter sports overtake the snowcapped mountains, thermal spas make warmth possible, and stylish stores reflect France’s reputation as a fashion capital.

Whether looking for truffles or interested in celebrating seasonal festivals, France in December is a destination in which you can indulge.

Learn more: France Tours & Vacations • France Travel Guide

Tromsø, Norway

Temperatures: Low 20°F • High 29°F

Highlights: Northern Lights, snowshoeing, dog sledding, Flåm railway, Sami culture

Other recommended travel times: February • June • July • August • September

Norway is a paradise of snow and adventure in winter. The festive holiday season brings light to the long, dark nights, with celebrations that cross into the Arctic Circle, without the summer crowds.

Winter feels exciting, with endless chances to see the Northern Lights or migrating whales moving through the fjords. From chances to ski or sled between destinations, winter sports to Christmas markets, Norway in December demonstrates a unique majesty.

Learn more: Norway Tours

Flachau ski resort, Austria

Temperatures: Low 28°F • High 37°F

Highlights: Culture, cuisine, villages, winter sports, scenery, museums, Christmas markets

Other recommended travel times: May • July • August • September

December in Austria embodies the wonders of winter and makes it one of the busiest times of year to visit.

Glowing Christmas markets, festive light shows, and seasonal charms entice travelers from around the world, further lured by the promise of luxury ski resorts across the alpine region.

From skiing to snowshoeing, the arts to imperial grace, Austria in December can feel like an intimate getaway that reflects timeless charm and grandeur, from the Dolomites to the Danube River.

Learn more: Austria Tours & Vacations • Austria Travel Guide

Copenhagen, Denmark

Temperatures: Low 75°F • High 54°F

Highlights: Culture, museums, scenery, Christmas markets

Other recommended travel times: September

Surprisingly cozy, full of Christmas cheer, and exuding snowy majesty, Denmark in winter is very festive. Celebrate the season with holiday markets and uncover the dazzling Northern Lights dancing above the snow.

Ice skate, indulge in a soothing sauna, or enjoy antique towns. In December, Denmark demonstrates its reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world, and you can enjoy all it has to offer during your trip.

Learn more: Scandinavia Tours & Vacations

Queenstown, New Zealand

Temperatures: Low 59°F • High 70°F

Highlights: Warm weather, wildlife, culture, beaches, water sports, hiking, scenery

Other recommended travel times: January • March • June • July

New Zealand is dynamic in December, with the promise of endless adventures in the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. Plenty of sunny days make it an exceptional time to enjoy water sports, take to the hiking trails, or travel to the beaches.

Search for whales along the coastline, learn about Māori culture, or indulge in new adventures, from celebrated wines to fantastic surf. Enjoy the vibrant color of lupins or the impressive mountain peaks as you uncover how New Zealand brings the fantastical to life.

Learn more: New Zealand Tours & Vacations • New Zealand Travel Guide

Atacama Desert, Chile

Temperatures: Low 56°F • High 85°F

Highlights: Warm weather, culture, hiking, scenery

Other recommended travel times: February • March • October • November

December in Chile casts a bright light over the natural beauty that spans from the northern Atacama Desert to the southern Patagonian icefield. December ushers in the heart of summer in the Southern Hemisphere to bring warmth and stunning colors back to the landscape.

While crowds start growing, especially around Patagonia, December is a great time to explore captivating scenery that can take you from glacial lakes to star-studded skies, along epic hiking trails, or to celebrated wine regions, even the legendary Moai statues of Easter Island.

Learn more: Chile Tours & Vacations • Chile Travel Guide

Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Temperatures: Low 69°F • High 82°F

Highlights: Warm weather, culture, hiking, scenery, cycling, wine, horseback riding

Other recommended travel times: February • April • November

December in Argentina brings life to summer in the Southern Hemisphere. The warm weather spreads from the coastline to the Patagonian Steppe, before the peak-season crowds arrive.

The rains of the tropical north funnel through the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls, while the clear skies and warm days make the glaciers of Patagonia within reach.

From the legends of tango in Buenos Aires to the natural splendor of the Andes, traditional asado to a passion for futbol , Argentina in December can satisfy every kind of adventurous spirit.

Learn more: Argentina Tours • Argentina Travel Guide

Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

Temperatures: Low 64°F • High 77°F

Highlights: Warm weather, wildlife, culture, beaches, scenery

Other recommended travel times: February • July

Misty volcanic peaks, trekking beneath jungle canopies, peaceful beach escapes, or intimate mountain resorts highlight the possibilities of Costa Rica in December. The dry season brings comfortable temperatures across the country and attracts growing crowds.

From searching for raucous macaws to finding nesting sea turtles, lounging on golden sands, or soaring through the sky on ziplines, Costa Rica in December unveils the essence of pura vida .

Learn more: Costa Rica Tours • Costa Rica Travel Guide

Malé Atoll, Maldives

Temperatures: Low 80°F • High 86°F

Highlights: Warm weather, marine life, culture, beaches, villages

Other recommended travel times: March • April

The Maldives in December can be an escape from winter into an island haven. The season can bring more people eager to lounge on the soft white sands for part thereof.

With longer periods of unceasing sunshine and possible showers in the earlier half of the month, December in the Maldives can be the perfect time to lounge on the beaches or dive into the crystal-clear waters in search of colorful marine life.

From exclusive resorts to the wonders of coral walls, you can embrace island life in the Maldives in December.

Learn more: Maldives Tours & Vacations • Maldives Travel Guide

Golden Triangle, Thailand

Temperatures: Low 71°F • High 88°F

Highlights: Warm weather, culture, museums, wildlife, beaches, water sports, museums, cuisine

Other recommended travel times: January • April

Thailand in December brings the idyllic tropical paradise to life. Islands are ringed with white-sand beaches, enticing cuisine lures locals and visitors into restaurants, and cool mountains in welcoming forests accentuate the warm air.

The number of visitors grows in December, with many tourists from around the world escaping harsh winters. Rainy days are minimal, the nights are cool, and the wonders of Thailand become easily accessible, whether visiting the Golden Triangle in the north, the Temple of the Golden Buddha in Bangkok, or the golden sands of Koh Lanta.

Learn more: Thailand Tours & Vacations • Thailand Travel Guide

Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Temperatures: Low 75°F • High 84°F

Highlights: Warm weather, wildlife, culture, beaches, ancient ruins, villages

Other recommended travel times: February • May • August

With whale-watching and pleasant weather from the south to east coasts, December in Sri Lanka represents the beginning of peak travel season.

The growing crowds understand how to enjoy the comfortable weather and experience the Cultural Triangle, as blue skies return after the monsoon season.

With roaming elephants, timeless ruins, endless beaches, and a deep connection to preserved heritage, Sri Lanka can feel like a hidden gem, even as peak season returns.

Learn more: Sri Lanka Tours

Dochula Pass, Bhutan

Temperatures: Low 43°F • High 68°F

Highlights: Culture, temples, villages, museums, hiking

Bhutan is a winter surprise in December, filled with blue skies and captivating snowy landscapes.

The kingdom opens to spectacular views of the high Himalayas for an added reward that accentuates the abundant festivals and open rails along the lower regions of the mountains.

Look for migrating cranes, explore the Dochula Pass, or celebrate the season with locals to experience the authentic beauty of Bhutan in December.

Learn more: Bhutan Vacations & Tours 

Koh Rong Island, Cambodia

Temperatures: Low 77°F • High 86°F

Other recommended travel times: February • April

December in Cambodia is perfection, with dry, sunny days and relatively cool evenings. The great weather and holiday season make Cambodia a popular destination for travelers in December, but the country still casts a captivating spell, where ancient and contemporary cultures meet.

With imperial temples, adventures into the mountains or rice paddies, and natural beauty with freshwater dolphins or tropical islands, Cambodia is an enchanting destination in December.

Learn more: Cambodia Tours • Southeast Asia Tours & Vacations

Sukhothai Historical Park, Thailand

December can take you into the depth of winter or the heart of summer. Trek to the marvelous Paine Massif, experience Christmas Mass at the Vatican, visit a tropical jungle in search of ancient ruins, or find the perfect secluded beach.

A personalized vacation in December opens your eyes to new possibilities which you can discover with our trips of a lifetime sample itineraries. You can also find more helpful tips on when to travel with our information on the best places to travel by month .

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Italy in December – Reasons to Visit and What to Expect

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If you’re considering visiting Italy in December, you can expect festive celebrations, sparkling Christmas lights, and snowy mountain slopes. The country sees a nose dive in the number of tourists during this month, making for a chilly yet tranquil Italian getaway.

Italy’s weather in December varies according to where you are in the country. Northern Italy sees more cold weather due to its higher elevations, while Southern Italy is much warmer. As the start of winter (off-season), December offers fewer tourists, holiday cheer, and lower prices.

This gives you the usual opportunity to experience the best of both worlds: a serene trip to Italy and a winter wonderland. That’s why December could well be the best time to visit Italy .

Article contents

Weather in Italy in December

Is Italy cold in December? This depends on where in the country you visit. Northern Italy typically has cold temperatures, ranging from 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C), while Central Italy is milder, with average temperatures ranging from 43°F to 55°F (6°C to 13°C).

Southern Italy also boasts moderate weather. Daytime temperatures range from 46°F to 57°F (8°C to 14°C). So when you visit Italy, don’t expect Venice to feel the same as Sicily. Weather in Italy in December can also get quite wet, with the country experiencing seven to ten rainy days.

What is the weather like in Italy in December? Here’s a closer look:

• Rome Weather in December: Located in Central Italy, the capital experiences mild temperatures that fluctuate from cloudy and gray to sunny and warm. Average daytime temperatures range from lows of 40°F (4°C) to highs of 55°F (13°C). Rome can get quite wet in December, with about eight days of expected monthly rainfall.
• Florence Weather in December: The birthplace of the Renaissance is just a few hundred miles north of Rome, so average temperatures here are cooler. Average lows hit 37°F (3°C) while the highs reach up to 52°F (11°C). Florence only gets about nine hours of sunlight in December, which is the least compared to other months. 
• Venice Weather in December: The Floating City is chilly but not freezing. Daily temperatures range from lows of 33°F (1°C) to highs of 46°F (8°C). Six days of the month are expected to bring rainfall, but don’t look forward to snow falling.
• Tuscany Weather in December: Similar to its capital, Florence, this region experiences mild temperatures in December. Average daytime temperatures range from lows of 46°F (8°C) to highs of 54°F (12°C). It gets a decent amount of rain through about 10 days.
• Amalfi Coast Weather in December: Hugging south of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast tends to be warmer than its northern counterparts. The region experiences lows of 48°F (9°C) and highs of 58°F (14°C). It’s warmer but wetter, with over 14 days of rain.
• Italian Lakes Weather in December: The Italian Lakes District experiences cold temperatures in December. The lakes rarely freeze over, so ferries are still available. In Lake Como or Lake Garda , you’ll enjoy Christmas markets surrounded by snowy peaks. Expect conditions to range from 32°F (0°C) to 45°F (7°C) throughout the low season.
• Cinque Terre Weather in December: This region along the Italian Riviera is quite lucky, as despite being in northwest Italy, it experiences warm December weather. Cinque Terre has daytime temperatures ranging between 42°F (6°C) and 53°F (12°C). Days are still short, though, with only nine hours of daylight to get all your sightseeing done.
• Sicily Weather in December: The heart of the Mediterranean gets warm during midday but cools down throughout the evening. Sicily experiences daily temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 59°F (15°C). Expect about eight to nine days of rainfall in December. 

Best Places to Visit in Italy in December

Visiting Italy in December has its perks: open-air markets, the Christmas spirit, and lower prices. But where should you go when you visit Italy in December? These are some of the best picks.

Milan is often chilly and can be foggy or cloudy, with a chance of light snow in December. But if you’re keen on capitalizing on holiday sales, then you’ll surely want to visit one of the world’s fashion capitals for the perfect winter coat. Temperatures range from 36°F (2°C) to 45°F (7°C).

There are plenty of things to do in Milan in December besides shopping, but if you’re a sucker for Christmas bargains, there’s no better place than Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II . Otherwise, stroll through famous Christmas markets like the Oh Bej! Oh Bej! near Sforzesco Castle.

Holiday festivities officially kick off on the 7th of December when locals celebrate and honor the city’s patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio. But you can still see Milan’s best attractions via a guided walking tour and Last Supper visit or a Duomo and rooftop tour for a vantage point of the city.

TIP: Take a trip from Milan to Lake Como to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and lower prices.

The Dolomites

You can’t visit Italy in December without skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding amidst snowy mountains, and that’s where the Dolomites come in. Temperatures are freezing, ranging from 14°F (-10°C) to 23°F (-5°C). But there are lots of thrilling winter activities to keep you warm.

Winter sports aren’t the only things on offer in the Dolomites in December, but considering the number of nearby resorts, it will be hard to stay away from them. Val Gardena is one of the most famous skiing areas, but there are eleven other ski slopes within the Dolomiti Superski region.  

Otherwise, opt for a helicopter tour over the mountain range or visit some of the best towns in the Dolomites . Stroll through a Christmas market under the festive lights in Bolzano, sipping mulled wine. Or meet the 5,000-year-old iceman Ötzi at the Museum of Archaeology Bolzano. 

LISTEN: To our podcast on the Christmas Markets of South Tyrol .

Chilly and often misty, the fog adds a mystical charm to the canals, making Venice in December a dreamy vacation destination. Sometimes, the fog makes it look like the buildings are floating on the clouds, but visiting Venice in December is not all doom and gloom. In fact, it’s serene.

Temperatures range from 33°F (1°C) to 46°F (8°C), so the cold weather keeps tourists away. Enjoy a ride on the Grand Canal without interruption, explore local Christmas markets like the “Natale in Laguna” in Campo Santo Stefano, or keep it simple with a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica .

If you’re keen on a day trip from Venice , consider visiting Murano Island for the Natale di Vetro (Christmas of Glass), where you can see a 20-foot-tall glass Christmas tree. These December festivities kick off with Festa di San Niccolò—a celebration of Venice’s patron saint.

The highlight of this festival is the Regatta di San Niccolò, featuring a water procession organized by the glass-workers from Murano Island.

NOTE: The city has a new law called the Venice Tourist Tax that requires a €5 ($5.41) entry fee for all-day visitors. This law came into effect in April 2024 .

Typically frosty and sometimes thinly dusted with snow, December brings a festive atmosphere to Bologna. The Italian food capital often experiences cooler weather than the southern regions, seeing conditions range from 36°F (2°C) to 44°F (7°C) throughout the off-season.

Stroll through festive open-air markets, like the Antica Fiera di Santa Lucia (Ancient Fair of Saint Lucia) set underneath the city’s historic porticoes. This is a historic market, dating back to the 16th century. It’s the perfect place to eat the local food while walking beneath twinkling lights.

Try the most popular delights, like tagliatelle al ragù, lasagna bolognese, and tortellini in brodo. Otherwise, take a Bologna food tour or dedicate the whole day to a behind-the-scenes look at cheese, prosciutto, and balsamic vinegar production with these factory tours .

Your Bologna itinerary shouldn’t end with just tasting delicious food. Take day trips from Bologna to nearby towns like Modena and Parma, or book a Ferrari VIP experience with a test drive.

Mildly chilly but with mostly clear skies and occasional rain, Rome in December is the perfect time to explore the Italian capital. Rome’s rich history and religious significance make it a popular destination throughout the year, but it gets fewer tourists during the off-season.

LISTEN: To our podcast on Christmas in Rome and Italy .

Rome’s weather in December ranges between 40°F (4°C) and 55°F (13°C). Although brisk, the conditions still allow you to explore top attractions like the Pantheon , Colosseum, and Vatican Museums . But December is about Christmas decorations, Nativity scenes, and ice skating.

Head to the Vatican for the Pope’s Christmas Mass, or visit the Piazza Navona Christmas Market, where you can buy holiday gifts, from leather goods to books, toys, and food items. Every church has a Nativity scene, and Christmas trees are in every piazza. Don’t miss out on the Christmas tree lighting in St. Peter’s Square, a grand and enduring tradition.

NOTE: Some notable sites like the Colosseum operate limited hours during this time, so arrive early. You must also book tickets far in advance to hear the Pope’s message at the mass.

With moderate winter sun and occasional rain, Naples is a fantastic place to spend December in Italy. You won’t get beach weather, but indoor activities are available, like visiting museums, strolling through art galleries, and enjoying hearty cuisine under the sparkling Christmas lights.

Naples  experiences weather conditions that range from 44°F (6°C) to 58°F (14°C). The holiday season brings a festive atmosphere along Via San Gregorio Armeno (or Christmas Alley), where artisans line the street with handcrafted wooden figurines representing Nativity scenes.

Locals traditionally eat fish for dinner on Christmas Eve, so a visit to the Porta Nolana Fish Market is a must. This market is open all night on Christmas Eve, and strolling through it is a great way to spend one of your December nights in Naples.

Alternatively (and if you can brace the weather), take a day trip to Pompeii or visit the Amalfi Coast. Keep in mind that many tourist organizations operating on the Amalfi Coast usually close down during the holiday season, but that only allows you to experience the local’s everyday lives.

DISCOVER: The Best places to stay on your trip to Naples .

Brisk but often sunny, Bari has pleasant weather in December. The city is not unseasonably cold so you can admire its historical charm via a walking tour , segway, or bike. Indulge in the best meals with a street food walking tour, or opt for a pasta-making and tasting experience .

December brings temperatures ranging from 42°F (6°C) to 56°F (14°C) to Bari. You’ll enjoy local Christmas markets, stroll through the Christmas lights garden, or marvel at the nearly 46-foot-tall illuminated Christmas tree at Piazza del Ferrarese.

The festive lights and celebrations kick off on the day of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of Bari. There are other fun things to do in Bari during your December visit. Visit Alberobello’s UNESCO World Heritage Site to marvel at its ancient conical roof-shaped stone huts. Or go on a shopping spree for local treats in Bari Vecchia—home of the famous Piazza Mercantile.

Situated at the southernmost tip of Italy, Sicily is an excellent winter destination. Although it may not provide beach-going weather like in the summer months, Sicily in December allows you to be outdoors and explore its magical small towns like Catania, Taormina, and Noto.

Expect conditions to range from 50°F (10°C) to 59°F (15°C). This mild and generally sunny weather is best enjoyed hopping from one historical site to another. Visit Palermo , the largest city on the island, to explore its UNESCO-recognized Arab-Norman heritage.

Sticking to the holiday spirit, stroll through a lively Sicilian Christmas market, indulge in the Mediterranean-inspired traditional food, or sample wine cultivated on the island. The Feast of Santa Lucia in Syracuse is a big celebration featuring a grand procession and fireworks.

TIP: Need help figuring out where to go? These places to visit in Sicily should be at the top of your list.

Festivities and Public Holidays in Italy in December

From holiday-inspired decorations to Christmas Day parades, Italy in December presents a unique opportunity to experience attractions, major cities, and small towns with festive cheer.

But that’s not where it ends – the country also has a range of national holidays that you may enjoy. Here are the most important holidays celebrated across Italy in December:

• 6th of December – Feast of Saint Nicholas: Celebrated in Bari with religious processions and festivities honoring Saint Nicholas, the city’s patron saint.
• 7th of December – Feast of Saint Ambrose: Milan honors its patron saint with special church services across the city. Don’t miss out on the lighting of the Christmas tree in the Cathedral Square.
• 8th of December – Feast of the Immaculate Conception: This is a national holiday marking the start of the holiday season, with masses, parades, and fireworks. This day ushers in the Christmas lights, trees, and decorations.
• 13th of December – Feast of Saint Lucy: Celebrated in the southern regions, particularly Sicily, this feast is marked by parades and processions. In Syracuse, the saint’s statue is moved from its chapel to the high altar of her cathedral.
• 24th of December – Christmas Eve: Locals prepare for Christmas with festive meals and attend Midnight Mass. In Naples, families enjoy a fish meal as per tradition, while the fish market stays open later than usual for last-minute shopping.
• 25th of December – Christmas Day: This is a national holiday celebrating the birth of baby Jesus at family gatherings and church services. Many banks and restaurants close on this day.
• 26th of December – Saint Stephen’s Day: This day honors the first martyr recorded in Christian theology and allows families to extend their Christmas celebrations.
• 31st of December – New Year’s Eve: Like the rest of the world, Italians celebrate this day with festive meals, parties, fireworks, and public gatherings to welcome the New Year.

What to Wear in Italy in December

Now that you’re all caught up on the December festivities at hand, it’s time to pack your bags. If you’re wondering how to pack for Italy in December; here’s a list of all the necessary items:

• Layered clothing – Italy in December is brisk, but southern regions are less cold than those in the north. Nonetheless, pack several clothes that can be layered under a big winter coat. This way, you can adjust your clothing to each region’s weather.
• Waterproof shoes – While December is colder and November rainier, this month does get its fair share of wet weather. A pair of waterproof shoes will come in handy on wet days.
• Rain jacket or coat – Brace yourself for occasional showers throughout December. A rain jacket or coat will help you keep warm while exploring the quieter streets of Italy.
• Beanies, scarves, and gloves – You may not need these in Sicily , but you will in Milan. Pack several beanies, scarves, and gloves to keep warm in northern Italy.
• Umbrella – If the weather forecast deceives you, this nifty accessory will be your saving grace when the heavens suddenly start coming down.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Italy?

Absolutely! Italy in December offers tranquil strolls along quieter streets, shorter queues at top attractions, and a festive atmosphere marked by sparkling lights. Whether you’re looking to explore small towns or want to stick to the big cities, December has something for everyone.

Keep in mind that the month is quiet at first but gets busier as the holiday season arrives. Christmas markets, holiday processions, and parades attract many locals and tourists.

Generally speaking, Italy in December offers a mixed bag; from snowy peaks to quieter cities.

READ: Want to avoid the cold weather? Consider visiting Italy in September .

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14 Destinations That Are Even Better During The Off Season

While peak season certainly exists for a reason, there are some great vacation spots that are still pretty exciting during their off seasons. Vacationing during off seasons is a great way to make your money go further, sometimes even saving a significant amount on travel to put toward exploring another desired destination. According to Just A Pack , traveling to the beat of your own drum and avoiding the crowds could save you up to 70% on accommodations alone. That just may be a fair trade for fun-filled, sunny days in popular destinations. Flights and food will also likely see a decrease in price during the less-busy season.

A budget vacation aside, traveling to desirable locations during their off seasons can have numerous advantages. The lessening of tourists crowding the locale is huge, allowing travelers to enjoy more flexibility with increased availability. Fewer tourists also make for a more authentic visit by making it possible to sightsee without as many obscurities, and interactions with locals are far more likely. Travelers on a budget don't have to settle for a dreary low-season vacation — we've compiled a list of destinations that visitors will find thriving during their off seasons. These locations are just as lovely during the off season as they are when the tourist season is in full swing.

Salem, Massachusetts

We're starting our list off strong in Salem, Massachusetts, one of the top Halloween destinations in the world. It may be a kind of Mecca for witches and those with a soft spot for all things spooky during October, but the truth is that Salem is just as witchy and Halloween-centric during the rest of the year, too. Planning a trip into the historic city outside of the peak time of October will allow you to have a more relaxed and spontaneous trip without needing to book advance tickets for everything, wait in lines, or spend an hour finding parking on the weekends.

Outside of a couple of markets and extra Halloween decorations, pretty much everything that draws people in during October is still readily available to visitors of Salem during all other months of the year. In fact, according to Things To Do In Salem , the city hosts special events throughout the year, like the annual Salem's So Sweet festival in February, where ice sculptures are placed all over the city.

The city, which is largely known as the site of the Salem witch trials, has a whole host of historic sites and museums — both related to witches and not — that remain open year-round. Travelers who are looking for a unique, peaceful, and history-rich vacation will find an off-season trip to Salem much more valuable than a visit around Halloween.

Italy is a popular destination for vacationers from May to mid-September, but those who schedule a trip a little earlier in the year are in for a real treat. If you plan your trip to spend Easter in the iconically Catholic country, you can pretty much throw a dart at a map and find an elaborate festival or tradition in whichever city it lands. One of the very best and oldest Easter traditions in Italy  include the "Scoppio del Carro," or the "Explosion of the Cart" in Florence, where an elaborate and ornate 18th-century cart is guided through the city by white oxen with gold-painted horns. The cart, full of fireworks, later "explodes" for a spectacular display and is followed by a full-on street show with costumed performers. Rome, of course, goes all out for Easter as the Pope himself is a large part of the festivities in the city.

Even if your trip does not fall on Easter, traveling to Italy during the off season is seemingly a no-brainer. Though traveling throughout the large country is made simple and efficient with its public transport and train system, traveling from city to city is made even easier without the large summer crowd of tourists. Italy is home to a massive amount of history and art that tourists flock to, making the off seasons pretty much the perfect time to see some of the most iconic pieces in existence without too much of a crowd.

New York City

Although the warmer months from June to August are the most popular time for tourists to visit The Big Apple, it's worth braving the cold and snowy weather in December to take a trip to the iconic city. There's nothing quite like a Christmas in New York, and the city is decked out for the holiday from the end of November to the beginning of January. There's a reason some of the most iconic Christmas films, like "Elf" and the "Home Alone" franchise, take place in New York City — no one gets lit up for the holiday quite like NYC. From tinsel-draped small businesses to the huge, stories-high decorations, there are countless instances of Christmas magic to see while you're visiting. 

There are plenty of holiday-only events and activities available during the short period of time the city is dressed up in its Christmas finest. Some of the very best things to do in New York City fall during the Christmas season and, per New York Simply , your itinerary should include seeing a 75-foot Christmas tree in all its splendor, visiting holiday markets, and drinking up some delicious hot chocolate. Visiting NYC during the holidays involves experiencing the city under a blanket of string lights and decorated evergreens. It's somewhat of a bucket list trip that everyone should experience at least once. 

Bali, Indonesia

There is plenty more to do in Bali than just hanging out on a beach, and traveling to the beautiful city in the rainy, off season  from November to March is ideal for travelers wanting an affordable and peaceful vacation. Bali's off season can be unpredictable, seeing as it is the rainiest time of year, but it does stay reasonably warm during this time, so visitors should plan to wear a light raincoat while they are venturing outside. This time of year is ripe with new year festivals, which can be an exceptional cultural experience for travelers.

The Ogoh-Ogoh parade , for example, involves men carrying huge statues through the streets with the purpose of scaring away bad spirits. This tradition is always the day before the Nyepi festival, which is also known as the Day of Silence. The Nyepi festival is a celebration of the Balinese New Year. Though the official date changes annually with the lunar calendar, the festival usually falls in March. The Day of Silence is an important and respected Hindu holiday and, according to Lonely Planet , brings a total stop to travel and happenings in the city, with no one even being allowed outside. While the Ogoh-Ogoh parade is certainly worth seeing, you'll need to make sure you can respect local traditions the following day if you do opt to visit. 

Santorini, Greece

The Greek islands are one of the most sought-after destinations for a beautiful and relaxing beach getaway. Santorini is one of the most well-known Greek islands, and the months of June, July, and August see tourists flocking there for the beautiful beach views and warm weather. However, the winter may just be the best time to visit the Greek islands , as visitors will enjoy the calm that the island has to offer without competing with thousands of tourists for views and room on the sidewalk. Some of the businesses may be closed during the off season, but travelers will have more freedom and flexibility to explore the island for hidden gems they might miss during busier months.

Since Santorini slows down quite a bit from November to March , tourists can use a more relaxed pace to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of the Greek island. The iconic and picturesque blue-domed churches are available to peruse and the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri tells a story of the island that is almost trapped in time, readily available for travelers to discover. 

While it's best to be prepared for a wide range of weather and temperatures in the off season, the absence of the scorching summer heat allows for comfortable walking trips throughout the island. A winter vacation in Santorini is ideal for the lone vacationer who wants to take it easy — those looking for fast-paced nightlife should stick to the packed peak time.

The Maldives

The Maldives has two seasons: dry season and wet season. Naturally, the dry season from December to April is when people flock to the lux islands, and the wet season of May through November tends to keep people off of the beaches. The truth of it is, though, that the wet season still offers a good amount of sunshine with a lot less traffic on the water, which makes the Maldives' diving scene even more desirable than during the peak season.

According to Secret Paradise , the low season of the Maldives is ideal for diving, as the decreased water traffic from tourists and boats makes activity under the water flourish. Since there are fewer people diving during this time, prices tend to be lower for diving excursions. The Maldives is also home to one of the most mysterious places in the world , the Sea of Stars , which appears to be magical glowing waters surrounding Vaadhoo Island. The glow at night is caused by bioluminescent microorganisms, and it is a sight to behold. This phenomenon doesn't happen all the time and can be kind of tricky to catch, but the timing can often overlap with the Maldives off season in June and October.

Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors and everything nature has to offer. Tourists flock there in the summer and winter for awesome access to the Rocky Mountains, whether it's to camp under the stars or ski down the peaks. The city, as a whole, tends to attract lovers of the outdoors, both as locals and as tourists year-round. Summer is the most popular tourism time, but winter comes in a close second as people from all over come to ski at some of the best resorts in the west.

According to Travel Lemming , the best times to visit Denver for low prices are the spring and fall, as tourists interested in extreme outdoor sports are more likely to be adventuring elsewhere. The most budget-friendly Denver vacation during this time of year will be full of more relaxing activities, like visiting the hot springs in surrounding cities or wandering through Meow Wolf's Convergence Station and the jaw-dropping art scene in the city's River North Art District (referred to as "RiNo" by locals). The off season is also a particularly good time to catch a concert at the Red Rocks Amphitheater, located about a half-hour from Denver. If you can't find an artist you want to see, you can still visit the natural amphitheater and soak in the expansive views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. 

New Zealand

Thanks to "Lord of the Rings," New Zealand is known throughout the world for its beauty, and its landscapes vary thoroughly throughout the country. The popular travel destination grew even busier when J. R. R. Tolkien's novel went to the big screen, which is why it takes some skillful planning to get booked for a trip during the peak season. But winter months may be the ideal time for budget travelers wanting to get a good look at New Zealand. Not only are there more accommodations readily available during the off season, but the scenery is less obscured by crowds of tourists.

One of the many reasons to visit New Zealand during the off season is that the country looks wildly different than it does at other times of the year. Those who travel for the peak season of December through March get to see the country in all her summer glory, but they miss out on how breathtakingly beautiful New Zealand looks when it's covered in fields of mixed flowers during the spring and the bursts of colors during the fall. The New Zealand winter months of June through August are ideal for off-season travelers, as the blankets of snow covering the country make gorgeous terrain for winter sports. Winter also boasts a number of festivals , including the  Matariki Festival in Auckland that celebrates Māori culture.

While the off season in Crete doesn't have the same sunbathing weather that the summer months of June, July, and August do, temperatures are still comfortable in the 50s and 60s. This, paired with the lower prices and less-crowded autumn and winter seasons, make culture-rich Crete a great get-away option in the off season. Despite colder weather, there are many festivals in Crete in the fall and spring, including the  Chestnut Festival in the Elos village in October and World Tourism Day in September, where some great food can be discovered and explored. Crete's Greek Carnival celebration, known as Apokries , takes place during February and March and features costumed dancing in the streets, which is fitting for a festival rooted in the worship of the wine god, Dionysus.

Traveling to  Crete in the fall  months of September through November will allow you to explore all that the island has to offer. You can spend time perusing shops and diving into the island's authentic culture, or you can stroll along its many beautiful beaches. It's worth noting that the less-busy seasons could lead to some local shops and businesses being closed for the season. However, with the rich history of the island, there are numerous other places you can go explore during your stay. History buffs can unravel the tales of the island by visiting archeological sites and ancient ruins around the city.

Big Sur, California

Big Sur is stunning all the time, but opting to visit during the off season makes the Californian prices much more friendly for the traveler on a budget. The weather might not be as perfect as it looks on TV during the winter, but it still stays relatively nice — Big Sur typically doesn't even get near freezing, even on its coldest days. A lot of businesses don't stay open as late during the winter months of January, February, and March, but that doesn't mean the community will be completely shut down, either. 

As a relatively sparse community located on the central coast of California, the majority of the attraction to Big Sur is its breathtaking views and natural beauty. The winding, cliffside roads will make for a thrilling drive through the area, and visiting during winter will only improve the crisp air quality of your red convertible, scarf-around-the-head movie moment, if you so choose. Men's Journal dotes on Big Sur as a fantastic winter destination, saying the off season's increased accommodations paired with the epic nature scene of hiking trails and views make it a bucket list trip. One must-see stop on the winding roads of Big Sur is Calla Lilly Valley , which is in full bloom during the winter and a great perk for off-season travelers.

The Florida Keys

For travelers who are a little more flexible and don't mind the heat, traveling to the Florida Keys during the off season is almost a no-brainer. Prices for the high-demand vacation spot can almost be cut in half during the off season, and the weather is great, as it usually stays in the '70s and '80s. According to Trip Savvy , the best time to visit the Florida Keys is between March and May — right before hurricane season and after the peak tourist season. Most people migrate to the Keys for winter to avoid cold weather and soak up the sun, but waiting a little later just might make a better trip all around, considering the much-diminished crowd lets you get more for your money's worth. Unique experiences like shopping at The Rain Barrel Artisan Village and catching a ride on the African Queen steamboat could be elevated even more if you plan your trip around one of the Keys'  Third Thursday events. Every third Thursday, even during less busy seasons, the Morada Way Art Walk happens, inviting visitors and locals to peruse local art exhibitions. 

While it's not typically recommended to plan a trip to the Florida Keys during hurricane season, which falls between June and November, prices are shockingly low during this time. It could make for an exciting, spontaneous trip for the risk-inclined, but we wouldn't recommend it for anyone who likes to have all their ducks in a row before they head out for a relaxing vacation.

Mexico is a culture-rich country with a lot to offer. Luckily, Mexico's low season months of April through November fall on two major holidays, Easter and Día de Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. While Mexico sees a lower tourism season around these two holidays, there is bustling activity from Mexico residents, with Easter being a time when locals head out on vacations to beaches and resorts, leaving cities and towns free for visitors to explore. Día de Muertos, which takes place at the beginning of November, brings with it unique customs and festivals that can't be found anywhere else in the world.

Mexico's Día de Muertos celebrations are world-renowned and a source of curiosity for many, making it an event that travelers should seriously consider scheduling their off-season trip around. In addition to the festivities of the holiday, Mexico is also the site of many ancient and culturally significant sites. Colorful and artistic festivals, like Festival Cervantino , celebrate this history with street theater and a variety of musical performances. Visiting Mexico during the off season boasts all of these happenings and activities, as well as the perk of cheaper prices and fewer tourists.

Budapest is an awe-inspiring, historic city with beautiful architecture and rich history to sink your teeth into. The marvels that make up the bones and structure of the city do not go away in the down season of November through March, when the city is much colder and less crowded. The off season does, however, allow visitors to take in the sights without the hindrance of crowds. Visitors can also expect to find accommodations and local fare at much lower prices.

According to Low Season Traveler , a winter walk through the city is a great way to see Budapest and its many artistically built buildings. The city features a number of thermal pools, and the best way to experience them is to take a dip and warm up from the cool weather during the winter season. This time of year is also when a substantial Christmas market in Vörösmarty Square  pops up — it's so big even the biggest Grinch could get suckered into celebrating the holiday spirit. Indulging in these off-season activities will allow visitors to connect even further with the local culture and customs than they could during the overcrowded months of June to August.

Iceland's off season overlaps with the best time to see the Northern Lights. Of course, this means most of your days there will be blanketed by night, but the swirling colors in the sky more than make up for it. The Northern Lights are most visible between September and March due to the 19-hour nights, and the months that draw in the least amount of visitors are January through May, making April, March and May optimal visiting times for a budget-friendly vacation to witness the Northern Lights in person.

The long nights of the off season are lit up not only by the Northern Lights, but also by the volcanic activity that Iceland is built upon. While only erupting occasionally, the active volcano of Iceland is something to think about while visiting. For those who do decide they don't mind a little lava with their beautiful skies, a trip to Iceland in March will have travelers met with the impressive Reykjavik Food and Fun Festival where, according to Iceland Trippers , notable chefs from around the world show off their skills.

Best Places to Visit in December | 25 Awesome Places to Travel

Looking for the best places to visit in December? Whether you plan on being in a winter wonderland of snow and twinkle lights or getting a sun-kissed tan on a hot beach, these are the December travel hotspots not to miss. 

December is the ornate signature at the end of the year: the month in which Christmas finally rolls around, complete with all its jolliness and activities…

But it’s also the month where (if you’re in the northern hemisphere) the days are at their very shortest and where you realise that you’re burnt TF out from a long year. 

I don’t know about you, but December at home can be well… a little overhyped. What better time to plan a little (or big) escape? 

Put those holiday days to good use and discover the best places to travel in December.

Tip : If you missed out on the best places to travel in November , what better time to make up for it than December? 

Best Places to Visit in December

Average Temperatures: 28ºC high; 22ºC low

Season: Winter

The Mexican hotspot of Tulum is hands-down one of the ​​best places to travel to in December. Sure, it’s *technically* winter in Tulum in December, but let me tell you, Tulum winter and London winter are not the same thing at all. 

Swap foggy and drizzly days for sun-drenched beaches, pitch black evenings for sundowners with kaleidoscopic sunsets. 

Sounds pretty wonderful, right? But what should you do when you get there? 

There are the beaches , of course — and epic beach parties at venues like Papaya Project and Mia Beach Club. 

It’s not all about the beach life, though: Tulum was the last great city built by the Mayans, so the Tulum ruins are an obvious must-see. 

Add to that snorkelling, swimming or (if you’re feeling adventurous), diving in the area’s many cenotes — and you can see why it makes the perfect December escape.  

Next Read: Two Weeks in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Itinerary Suggested Stay: Copal Tulum Hotel

Average Temperatures: 5ºC high; 1ºC low

Copenhagen is one of the best places to go in December if you love whimsical snow-kissed cities alongside canals overflowing with Christmas charm. Although Copenhagen is a cool destination at any time of the year, the city really comes into its own in the winter months.

The sun might set at 3pm, but that’s when the markets start glowing. 

Grab a steaming mug of gløgg (mulled Danish wine with almonds and raisins) and meander through the Julemarked and Nyhavn Christmas markets. Then, hit the rink and go ice skating for ultimate festive vibes. 

Don’t forget to visit the holly-bedecked Tivoli Gardens or the numerous snow-kissed Copenhagen castles for which the city’s known. Plus, a winter cruise along the famous Nyhavn canal is a must.  

Next Read: Copenhagen in Winter: A Visitor’s Guide Suggested Stay: Generator Copenhagen

Average Temperatures: 30ºC high; 24ºC low

Swap your snowshoes for some flip-flops and prepare to get festive in sunny Jamaica! 

While there are standard tourist experiences like bamboo rafting, snorkelling, and even trying out the bobsled track at Mystic Mountain, there are plenty of Christmas parties, too. 

There’s the Potter’s Fair, the Market on the Lawn, the annual Christmas Concert, and plenty of shows from their National Dance Theater Company. 

It’s one of the unexpectedly festive places to visit in December. Oh, and don’t forget to see the glowing Luminous Lagoon while you’re there — it’s not every day you see bioluminescence in action, so you can’t miss it.  

Next Read: The Most Beautiful Islands in the Caribbean Suggested Stay: Skylark Negril Beach Resort

Average Temperatures: 9ºC high; 5ºC low

If pretty cobbled streets and plenty of carbs is your vibe, Trentino is the best place to visit in December. 

You may not want to escape the snow in winter, so why not embrace it? Trentino has a lot of natural wintery beauty, especially when the snow hits the slopes in December. 

Madonna di Campiglio is a stunning ski resort, and a ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the snow at Val di Sole is pure magic. 

So naturally, snowboarding and skiing are top activities. But so are drinking hot alcohol-drenched bombardinos and tucking into some of the incredible cuisines Trentino offers. 

The food culture is strong here with robust tastes and hearty dishes, so bring your appetite — foodies, you’ve been warned!

Pop into the Lefay Resort Dolomiti for an indulgent spa session for an hour or a day — I love a good pamper sesh, so I’d say go for the latter.

Next Read: Winter in Trentino: The Ultimate Italian Winter Getaway Suggested Stay: Villa Orso Grigio

Average Temperatures: 35ºC high; 20ºC low

Season: Summer

Mauritius might be tiny, but it has plenty to offer in its warm December months. 

From sea cave kayaking to swimming with dolphins, there’re plenty of aqua-orientated activities to make it one of the best December vacations for water babies. 

Visit Port Louis for cosmopolitan shopping, Grand Baie for relaxing beach fronts with warm waters and soft sandy shores, or venture inland to the tea plantations. 

If you’re looking for more nature, try the Black River Gorges National Park and its ribbon-thin waterfall or the Chamarel Seven Coloured Sands Geopark.  

Next Read: Visiting Chamarel Waterfall in Mauritius Suggested Stay: Azure Beach Boutique Hotel

Average Temperatures: 30ºC high; 23ºC low

Patagonia might be experiencing its summer, but prepare yourself for a chill! 

Glacier tours in Los Glaciares National Park, kayaking, rock-climbing, spectacular hikes through Torres del Paine — and that’s just during the day. 

By night you can turn your eyes to the vast, dark heavens and enjoy the splendid Geminids meteor shower in mid-December. If you’re the outdoor type and are looking for the experience of a lifetime, Patagonia is one of the best places to vacation in December this year.

Next Read: Torres del Paine W Trek Patagonia Suggested Stay: Río Serrano Hotel & Spa

Atacama Desert

Average Temperatures: 20ºC high; 7.5ºC low

When considering where to travel in December, the Atacama Desert might not be the first place that comes to mind. But you’re missing out if you don’t consider it. 

It’s one of the most gorgeous places in Chile, with rose-pink valleys, red dunes, and spiked terrain covered with a blanket of sparkling stars each night. The Salar de Atacama is unworldly in its beauty, and December is prime time to witness it. 

Rainbow Valley is also a breathtaking sight, and if you continue to the Valle de la Luna, you’ll think you’ve teleported to a Martian landscape. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the Tatio geysers — just go see for yourself.

Next Read: 12 Extraordinary Things to Do in Chile Suggested Stay: La Casa de José

Average Temperatures: 28ºC high; 20ºC low

Some of the best December vacations involve sunblock and hot sand between your toes. It’s summertime in Australia , and the Gold Coast has stunning beaches and lush jungles waiting just for you. 

Hit the surf, check out Dreamworld Theme Park and Zoo, or visit Sea World and watch the Dolphin Discovery show. 

The beaches are where the parties are, though. Christmas events take place on the sandy shores, and nearby bars and restaurants feature holiday specials, so get a sun-kissed Christmas tan with your ice-topped cocktail. 

Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads Beach, and Currumbin Beach are among the best beaches to choose from.

Next Read: Winter Sun Destinations Suggested Stay: Voco Gold Coast

Average Temperatures: 31ºC high; 24ºC low

India is arguably the best place to travel in December for adventurers seeking exotic treasures, and Kerala is one of its warmer spots. 

It’s in the south of the country and boasts palm-fringed beaches, opportunities to spot tigers, and serene tea plantations during these warm winter months. 

You can visit Kochi with its colonial ruins, hipster art galleries, and many museums like the Catholic Art Museum or the Museum of Kerala History for a history fix. 

Stick around for the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, the biggest art event in the country, where public squares and heritage sites are decorated in sculptures, installations, and more. 

Suggested Stay: Rouba Residency Hotel

You won’t be stuck for December vacation ideas if you choose Malaysia as your destination. 

View the tallest twin towers in the world, the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur, and admire the view of KLCC Park below on the sky bridge. 

Malacca has the most vibrant and interesting architecture from its Portuguese period and a plethora of art galleries, museums, and other historical interests like A Famosa. 

You can also visit the orangutans and sunbears in Sepilok, embark on some mega treks in the Taman Negara National Park, or shop at the Jonker Street Night Market.

Next Read: 20 Fantastic Things to Do in Malaysia You Shouldn’t Miss Suggested Stay: Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel

Average Temperatures: 30ºC high; 22ºC low

The balmy weather of Cambodia is perfect if you’re dreaming of warm places to go in December. It’s also one of the best times to see the sights in Cambodia as there’s little rain.

Not only is it free from the icy embrace of a northern winter, but it’s also full of incredible heritage sites like Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. 

You can channel your inner Lara Croft (or Indiana Jones) and explore the ruins of the 900-year-old Hindu “temple-mountain”, pay your respects at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and wander around the beautiful Phnom Penh.

Read Next: Three Awesome Southeast Asia Travel Routes Suggested Stay: Lotus Blanc Hotel

Average Temperatures: -3ºC high; -10ºC low

Dreaming of a conventional white Christmas? Then Quebec is your city.

With plenty of snow-related fun, buttery pastries everywhere, and Christmas decor dripping from 17th-century architecture, you might forget that you’re not in the heart of Europe. 

Go dog-sledding or cross-country skiing, indulge on a shopping trip, and head for the souvenir stands beckoning with Christmas wares. Stroll through the streets of Quebec and see the cultural attractions like Place-Royale and the Basilica of Sante Anne Beaupre are superb points of interest that you’ll want to add to your itinerary, too.

Next Read: Best Places to Visit in Winter Suggested Stay: Monastère des Augustines

Average Temperatures: 4ºC high; 0ºC low

For many people, the festive displays are a big part of December vacations, and no place does Christmas quite like Berlin. 

So why not nurse a steaming cup of glühwein in this sparkling Christmas city? With ice rinks, twinkling lights, and the finest Christmas markets in Europe, it’s a joy. 

The funfair at Alexanderplatz is a blast, and the Botanical Garden springs to illuminated life with glowing sculptures. Be sure to also stop at the Spandau Christmas Market and spend an evening wandering around Gendarmenmarkt for the ultimate festive feels.

Next Read: Best European Places to Visit in Winter Suggested Stay: Hotel Palace Berlin

Average Temperatures: 0.5ºC high; -4.5ºC low

Finland makes an obvious choice amongst the best countries to visit in December because of its association with the Big Guy in red — old Saint Nick himself. 

As well as spending a weekend eating, drinking, and being merry in Finnish Lapland, there are also the Northern Lights to bask beneath on a good night, ice hotels, dog sledding through the Finnish landscape, and the stunning architecture of Helsinki to admire. 

Next Read: Things to Do in Rovaniemi, Finland Suggested Stay: Arctic City Hotel

The heart of European Christmas beats in Austria. Come December, Vienna lights up with the ultimate festive cheer. 

Live music flows from the Art Advent on Karlsplatz, and the Christmas markets tote unique crafts and organic foods. 

Salzburg also has Advent Singing, Alpine folk choirs traditionally clothed, and Christkindlmarkt, one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets.

Suggested Stay: Grand Ferdinand Vienna  

Average Temperatures: 23ºC high; 6ºC low

December might mean winter in Mexico but it’s still a warm destination during this time. 

With the summer crowds dispersed and the rainy season over, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some architectural delights. There are the Templo Mayor Aztec ruins to peruse, the Frida Kahlo Museum to visit, and some extra fun pre-Christmas festivals with punch, traditional food, and candy. 

Celebrate the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, and buy a carved radish from the Night of the Radishes event in Oaxaca. 

Next Read: Two Weeks in Mexico Itinerary Suggested Stay: Cadillac Hotel Boutique

Average Temperatures: 27ºC high; 17ºC low

Cape Town will welcome you with a warm embrace in December with ideal temperatures for hiking, biking, and spending time outdoors. 

Ascend Table Mountain via the cable car to watch the sun rise over the landscape, or pack in some epic shopping in the cosmopolitan V&A Waterfront. 

Head over to Boulders Beach to watch the adorable penguins, then drive to Cape Point to see where the warm Indian Ocean meets the cold Atlantic. 

Finish the day by hiking up Lion’s Head and watching the sun set over the city. 

Next Read: Unmissable Things to Do in Cape Town Suggested Stay: Bliss Boutique Hotel  

Average Temperatures: 20ºC high; 4ºC low

Where to go in December that oozes Christmas cheer? How about Solvang in southern California? 

Founded by Danish settlers in 1911, it oozes a European atmosphere with windmills, bakeries, shops, and Danish-style Christmas festivities. 

Twinkle lights, Christmas trees, a Julefest parade, holiday markets, Santa’s Village in the park — there’s almost no end to the seasonal cheer here. 

Next Read: The Ultimate California Road Trip Suggested Stay: Hotel Corque

Average Temperatures: 26ºC high; 16ºC low

Dubai is an oasis of light and futuristic architecture in the warm desert — what’s not to love? 

Stand on the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa) for incredible views, or have fun cooling off at the Wild Wadi Waterpark. Go on desert safaris by camelback or visit the aquarium for some impressive aquatic entertainment. 

There’s also the Film Festival and Shopping Festival to look forward to and the Dubai Miracle Garden (which reopens in the cooler months) for floral delights.

Next Read: The Best Things to Do in Dubai Suggested Stay: Kempinski Hotel Mall

Average Temperatures: 10ºC high; 4ºC low

You’ll adore Madrid when the heat doesn’t drain you in the cooler winter months. 

Enjoy iconic monuments like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and mediaeval castles, along with fun carnivals toting crunchy churros and hot chocolate. Ride the Christmas Bus and take in a Christmas market or meander through the winter wonderland of the Botanical Gardens.

Just don’t forget to seek out the conventional touristy sights like El Retiro Park or Plaza Mayor during your festive getaway.

Next Read: The Perfect Spain Itinerary Suggested Stay: Ocean Drive Madrid

Average Temperatures: 24ºC high; 18ºC low

Peru makes one of the best vacation spots in December for a healthy dose of ancient culture and hiking, plus some awesome weather. 

Strap your hiking boots on and walk the Inca Trail, or climb to Machu Picchu and marvel at the ruins (stopping only to watch the adorable llamas grazing nearby). 

The city of Cusco is a delight, with the Cathedral of Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas standout landmarks — oh, and put your foodie taste buds to the test by trying some cuy . 

Next Read: 16 Incredible Things to Do in Peru Suggested Stay: Hotel Hacienda  

Average Temperatures: 31ºC high; 22ºC low

Thailand has the potential to offer you one of the best vacations in December, especially in Krabi. 

With sparkling turquoise waters, limestone mounds, and beach-ready temperatures, it’s a clear winner. You can ascend the 1,200+ stairs of Wat Tham Sua or dip in the hot springs at Klong Thom for some much-deserved R&R. 

There are also prehistoric caves to explore at Khao Khanap Nam and lush jungle treks to enjoy. Stop at the night markets and eat until you’re fit to burst.

Next Read: 50 Best Things to Do in Thailand Suggested Stay: The Brown Hotel

Rio de Janeiro

Average Temperatures: 29ºC high; 23ºC low

Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant, colour-filled city brimming with energy and an almost perpetual carnival aura. The incredible weather makes it the best place to vacation in December if you want to avoid the snow and instead party it up under the sun.

Fill your itinerary with spectacular sights such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain, or bask in the glorious sun on Copacabana Beach or Ipanema Beach. 

Next Read: The Best Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro Suggested Stay: Hilton Copacabana

Average Temperatures: 24ºC high; 19ºC low

Miami is known for its gorgeous winter weather, but it also boasts many cultural events throughout December. 

Music concerts, ballet performances, and the Art Basel Fair are wonderful ways to spend time there. 

If Christmas cheer is what you covet, then check out Santa’s Enchanted Forest in Tropical Park, or tour the Deering Estate as it’s decked out for the festive season. You could even make a detour to Disney World for a couple of days if you fancy a really special vacation.

Next Read: The Best Things to Do in Miami Suggested Stay: citizenM Miami Brickell   

Singapore 

Average Temperatures: 31ºC high; 25ºC low

Singapore is a delightful Asiatic retreat during the cold winter months when the weather is warm but not stiflingly so. 

Visit the Gardens by the Bay with over 1.5 million plants and the iconic Supertree constructions, or take to the skies in the Singapore Flyer for incredible city views at night. 

You can also visit Madame Tussauds or the National Gallery Singapore, as well as the cultural hotspots of Little India, Chinatown, and Little Arabia. Head to Universal Studios or Sentosa Island for fun and games — there’s no limit to the fun that can be had.

Next Read: 18 Cool Places in Singapore for You to Explore Suggested Stay: Grand Park City Hall  

Best Places to Travel in December: Practical Tips and Guides

• Depending on your destination, December might be a peak season. Check so you can book far enough in advance and not miss out.
• The earlier you book your flights, the cheaper they tend to be. You can search Skyscanner to get the best deal.
• Pack according to the weather of the place you’re travelling to. Places like Berlin and Copenhagen get incredibly cold – wrapping up warm is essential.

Best Places to Travel in December: Map

Where To Travel in December: Read Next

• Finland in Winter: An Insider’s Guide
• Things to do in Norway in Winter
• Why You need to Visit Iceland in Winter
• Copenhagen in Winter: The Ultimate Guide
• Trentino: Italy’s Gorgeous Winter Wonderland
• 2 Weeks in Mexico: The Ultimate Itinerary
• The Best Things to do in Cape Town

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Our Most Popular Off-Season Travel Destinations (+ When to Visit)

by Brandi Gannon Nov 2, 2023

While summer and holidays may be the conventional vacation times, exploring off-season travel can be a game changer if you prefer avoiding the crowds.

It’s the perfect chance to explore popular destinations when most visitors have dispersed. Plus, off-season travel gives you the opportunity to discover unique experiences that are often overshadowed (or are very expensive!) during peak seasons.

Here are some of our favorite places to visit in the off-season, when to plan your vacation, and what to do during your stay.

Visit Europe – Especially Paris – During November or From January Through March

Tourists flock to cities all over Europe in the spring and summer, and Paris is no exception. Visiting almost any other time of the year means fewer crowds, better hotel and flight prices, and shorter lines to see landmarks like the Louvre.

However, we’d also recommend skipping December. Visiting Paris during the holidays is an incredible experience that’s worth planning at least once, but if you aren’t a fan of crowds, it can be pretty stressful.

As long as you pack a warmer wardrobe, Paris in winter has all the magic of Paris in summer with less hassle!

You can lace up your skates and glide across the ice at one of the temporary ice rinks set up around the city during the winter season. While some are only around in December, others can be found well into March – like the most popular rink found in front of the Hôtel de Ville.

Winter is the perfect time to savor rich, hearty, traditional French cuisine. Treat yourself to classic dishes like coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, or a comforting bowl of French onion soup. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Bordeaux wine or Champagne! The city is also known for its charming cafés, and winter is a great time to get cozy and indulge in a warm beverage.

If you’d like to visit more than just Paris, planning a river cruise on the Rhine offers fantastic value with the option to see multiple European cities on one luxury cruise. One of our Travel Advisors, Kelly, recently did a Rhine River cruise and shared all the details. Read more about her AmaWaterways experience here !

Lastly, keep in mind that the off-season travel period doesn’t just apply to Paris. Most of Europe is less touristy in the fall and winter, and you may find temperatures in the southern cities much more pleasant than in the warmer months.

Enjoy Off-Season Travel in the Caribbean in Late April Through Early June

Off-season travel in the Caribbean reveals a quieter, more authentic side of the area, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local charm and experience the region at their own pace.

When the temperatures get cooler in the United States, that’s when most people escape to the beautifully warm water of the Caribbean. Luckily, temperatures remain relatively stable year-round, so you’re not missing out if you visit in the summer.

One important factor to note is that the least-busy months are actually late June through September, but that’s because it’s also peak hurricane season. Visiting in late April through early June lets you skip most of the winter and spring break crowds while still staying safe.

Here are some popular vacation destinations and what to do when you visit!

Jamaica – Explore the majestic Blue Mountains, discover Jamaica’s delectable cuisine, visit a bioluminescent bay, and check out some local music festivals. You’ll have plenty of all-inclusive resorts to choose from during your stay!

The Dominican Republic – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial, take advantage of the calm waters and enjoy some watersports, or hike to Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean.

Cancun – Discover the ancient Mayan civilization by visiting nearby archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, or Coba. The off-season is also a great time to visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve or take a boat trip to Isla Contoy. And of course, the cenotes and beautiful beaches can’t be missed!

St. Lucia – St. Lucia is famous for its iconic twin peaks, the Pitons. Take advantage of the off-season to hike Gros Piton or Petit Piton for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea! Visit crowd-free, secluded beaches and schedule a zipline tour for aerial views of the rainforest.

Plan a Trip to Mexico Year-Round – Depending on the Location!

While popular destinations in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula generally follow the same travel patterns as the rest of the Caribbean, other parts of the country are a little different. Here’s a quick guide on Mexico’s other popular destinations and when to visit for fewer crowds.

• Visit Huatulco and Oaxaca in April, May, September and October – These months offer milder temperatures that make exploration a lot more pleasant. The only thing to note here is that late October and early November can get crowded during the Día de Muertos celebration (but experiencing the holiday is definitely worth the crowds in this case)! Consider staying in Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa .
• Visit Mexico City in January through September – Mexico City will always be busy (it’s the second largest city in Latin America after all!), but you can avoid a lot of the crowds by skipping the holiday celebrations that take place in the latter part of the year. It’s important to note that winter nights can get pretty chilly, so pack appropriately!
• Visit the state of Chiapas in December, January or June – While it may be a little more rainy, the popular city of San Cristobal de las Casas is no less magical during the off season!
• Visit Los Cabos from June through September – If you’re planning to experience the area’s famous whale watching excursions, you may have to brave the high season crowds (October through May). However, if you’re there to explore and relax, the off season is the perfect time for it.

Want to learn more about traveling in Mexico? Check out some of best Mexico vacation spots !

Plan a National Park Vacation From September Through May

When most people think of visiting national parks , images of crowded trails, long lines, and packed parking lots come to mind. However, during the off-season – typically fall, winter, and early spring – these destinations transform into serene wilderness areas where you can experience nature in a whole new light.

Accommodation and entrance fees may be more affordable during the off-season, making a national park adventure more budget-friendly. Also, popular attractions that might have been fully booked in the summer could be easier to access without big crowds.

And aside from lower costs, there are other great reasons to take a national park vacation in the off season.

• With fewer visitors around, wildlife tends to be more active and visible. It’s easier to spot animals (or even interesting plant life) without the interference of bustling crowds. The off-season provides a better chance to witness animals in their natural habitats.
• While the off-season might bring about cooler temperatures and the occasional snowfall, it also offers a chance to witness landscapes transformed by winter. Glistening snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and mist-shrouded valleys create a unique atmosphere that can’t be replicated during the peak months.
• Speaking of winter landscapes, national parks in the off season are a photographer’s dream!

No matter which park or season you plan to visit, one of the best ways to tour a national park is by taking advantage of an RV vacation rental service . Let us know if you’d like some help planning a trip!

Whether you want to visit a destination during the high season or the low season, we’ll help you plan a vacation you’ll never forget! Key to the World Travel® Advisors have first-hand experience planning trips in destinations all over the world. Get in touch to start your vacation today!

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The best times to visit Bali based on your travel goals

Oct 30, 2023 • 4 min read

In Bali, the weather is warm and the hammocks are comfortable year-round © anyaberkut / Getty Images

With awe-inspiring scenery, dense layers of culture, plenty of sun, surf and sand, and balmy temperatures year-round, Bali calls out like a beacon to adventurers, sun-seekers and travelers who like to truly immerse themselves in the countries they visit. Whatever your travel tastes, you'll find rewarding things to see and do in Bali at any time of year.

The dry season, from April to September, is the most enjoyable time of the year for outdoor activities, including basking on beaches, hiking, surfing, sailing, diving and canyoning. Visit during the wet season (November to March), and you'll experience frequent downpours, but there's good surf on the east coast, and you can still enjoy the outdoors, especially in drier areas in the east and north of the island. Temperatures in Bali don’t vary much from season to season, hovering between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F) year-round, though it's often cooler in mountain areas. Whatever you're looking for in Bali, here are the best times to come.

The high season (July–August and December) is the best time for festivals and partying

The high season in Bali coincides with the traditional summer vacation season in Europe, America, and Australia in July and August. It's the height of the dry season and the peak time for surfing on the west coast at the breaks around Canggu and Seminyak . Bali's original beach hub, Kuta , can be mobbed at this time of year, as many travelers come here specifically for the party season. 

Most parts of Bali are inundated with visitors in summer, as tourists come to sample the island’s many delights and enjoy some of its most colorful festivals. Indonesia celebrates its independence from colonial powers on August 17 with plenty of pomp and fanfare. Expect entertaining parades and street parties in the bigger towns. 

The period around Christmas and New Year also sees a large influx of travelers seeking a reprieve from cold northern winters. Many hotels, restaurants and other venues organize special dinners and entertainment to mark the festive season. New Year’s Eve is particularly memorable, with spectacular fireworks at midnight to help you rock in the new year in style. Key events to look out for are the Pemuteran Bay Festival, Penglipuran Village Festival and, of course, New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

High season means high prices and pressing hordes in tightly-packed tourist areas; for a quieter experience, seek out more remote spots such as Nusa Penida and Pemuteran .

The shoulder season (April–June and September–October) is best for adventurous travelers

The shoulder season in Bali falls at either end of the dry season, when the weather is either improving after the rains or getting slowly wetter after the dry months. Things are quieter without the summertime crowds, and the weather is normally still dry enough for outdoor activities. However, the two-week Easter spring break can get very busy in tourist areas such as Kuta and Legian .

May marks the surfing season in full swing on the west and south coasts, and rafting, trekking and spelunking beckon adventure sports fans.

As rain showers in October are more frequent than in the dry summer months, plan to spend some time indoors visiting temples, museums and cultural institutions in Ubud , Denpasar , and other centers for Balinese culture. Top international events in October include the  Ubud Village Jazz Festival  and the  Ubud Writers and Readers Festival . 

The low season (January–March and November) is best for budget travelers

Bali’s low season coincides with the rainiest months of the year, and this can be an unpredictable time for outdoor activities. The crowds have decamped back home, and the island is returning to a more relaxed vibe, but there's still decent surf on the east coast at such legendary locations as Padang Padang, and the weather is still warm. Accommodation prices fall considerably, which is great news for budget travelers.

At the end of January or the start of February, Chinese New Year celebrations feature typical Balinese elements such as traditional percussion bands and dancers dressed as the mythological lion-like creature Barong. 

The festival of Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, moves with the lunar calendar but frequently falls in March. This is a culturally fascinating time to visit Bali, but after the colorful parades of ogoh-ogoh puppets the night before the festival, the Day of Silence itself can be a tricky time for visitors as everything closes, transport ceases, and nobody is allowed out on the streets.

Understanding the Balinese calendar

Note that religious festivals such as Galungan and Kuningan are scheduled according to the Balinese 210-day pawukon calendar. This means they happen roughly every seven months, according to the Western calendar. Dates for village festivals are not always set in stone either, and the timing of the Nyepi festival is dictated by the lunar saka calendar, meaning the date changes every year. If you’re planning a trip around a festival or event, check the precise dates before you book your flights.

This article was first published Dec 3, 2021 and updated Oct 30, 2023.

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The best holiday destinations in December

By Sarah James

Forget summertime: December just might be the best time of year to travel. There are the Christmas classics: the scent of mulled wine and freshly fallen snow wafting from NYC to Berlin , or salty-aired, sun-kissed treats such as St Barth’s. Off-season surprises include Fiji and Madagascar; for a limited time only, these are a (relative) bargain. And with the sunny season in full swing Down Under, it’s an ideal time to discover Australia’s most unlikely success story. Plus, our tips on how to do it all as sustainably as possible.

Scotland, UK

Temperature: 7°C high; 2°C low Season: winter

Sure, when the sun shines on Scotland , it’s sublime. But there’s also a lot to love about this raw and rugged land in the cold. Nothing is cosier than a few wee drams by a roaring fire after a busy day out in the elements – be that fat-biking East Lothian beaches, or tracking red deer across the Cairngorms’ snow-dusted slopes. Edinburgh in December is, of course, raucously festive, and winter’s a great time to appreciate the hearty fare of the city's best restaurants. Top of the list should be Tom Kitchin’s Michelin-starred Leith restaurant, The Kitchin, celebrating Scottish produce, followed by his elevated pub grub at Stockbridge’s The Scran and Scallie.

Sustainable travel tip: Road-tripping around Scotland’s vast wilderness is tempting, but consider a railway holiday instead. Chugging along the West Highland Line, you’ll be on one of the UK's most scenic train journeys .

Where to stay: Gleneagles Townhouse is the latest newcomer to the thriving Edinburgh hotel scene, and a modern relative to the beloved Gleneagles in Perthshire. For a private stay with a cracking location, this cosy city-centre loft overlooks the Royal Mile, and is one of our favourite Airbnbs in Edinburgh .

Temperature: 30ºC high; 25ºC low Season: Dry season

If tropical indolence is what you seek then the Maldives is, let’s face it, heaven at any time of year. But December, which marks the start of the dry season, sees the islands at their best: low rainfall, low humidity, a lovely dry heat, lots of sunshine… You can go swimming with whale sharks and manta rays (at South Ari and the western edges of the atolls). Plus in December (until March) there’s the bonus of a direct flight from the UK to Malé with British Airways, transporting you from cold, dark Britain to the heat and light of the Indian Ocean in as little as 10 hours, and giving you as much as an extra day of beach time.

Sustainable travel tip: While flying to the Maldives presents unavoidable carbon issues, you can minimise your footprint by choosing a resort that has real sustainability practices . Read up thoroughly to check it’s not just paying lip service. Choose dives and day trips with responsible outfits, which contribute to conservation – and be sure not to touch corals or living creatures.

Where to stay: Where indeed. There's plenty to love within our list of the best hotels in the Maldives . For somewhere shiny and new, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is the latest addition to the archipelago, with 80 villas split between over water (sunrise or sunset) and beach (properly hidden from each other by leafy vegetation) as well as two restaurants. For a classic crowd pleaser, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has a hard to beat location, with only over water villa accommodation ensuring the island stays wild and the beaches are on full dazzling display.

New York City, USA

Temperature: 8°C high; -3°C low Season: winter

Christmas in New York City is a no-brainer. The scene is cinematically festive, from ice-skating under the Rockefeller Center tree to theatrical window displays in Fifth Avenue department stores. And if you thought your neighbours tried to outdo you every year with the Christmas lights, spare a thought for the residents of Brooklyn ’s Dyker Heights. The houses here are so extravagantly bedecked, there’s an official bus tour of the most outrageous blocks. Better still, New York's best hotels serve warming nips by a crackling lobby fire: plump for The Ludlow’s Pigalle cocktail, with bourbon and ancho chile.

Sustainable travel tip: New York traffic is notorious, but thanks to the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway – a 31-mile bicycle route around the island – you can navigate the Big Apple by bike-share scheme ( Citi Bike stations are found all over town).

Where to stay: It's now possible to find a slice of serenity in midtown thanks to the newly opened Aman New York . Not only is it a great location for a quick trip, but ideal in winter too – all suites come with working fireplaces. For a classic Christmas stay, book a sort-after room at The Plaza , which enjoys beautiful views over Central Park.

Venice, Italy

Temperature: 7ºC high; 0ºC low Season: winter

The Floating City could be the most beautiful place in Italy , but it’s difficult to know for sure, given its gorgeous visage is always crawling with tourists. Apart from in December, that is, when no one thinks to go. You might imagine the lagoons are best when sparkling under a summer sun, but that, friend, just shows a lack of imagination: watching an icy fog curl spookily from the water’s surface is really quite something. You might even get super-lucky and see snow. Better than that, you can walk through St Mark’s without landing a selfie stick in the eye.

Sustainable travel tip: Visiting out of season is a good start. But one of the biggest problems with over-tourism in Venice is that a lot of people tend to come just for the day, hitting up only the major, over-stuffed sights, and thus bringing little benefit to locals. Instead, spend a few nights in the city, slowly exploring its hidden corners, eating at neighbourhood restaurants and shopping in small, independent stores. It’s not just better for the city, it makes for a much better holiday, too.

Where to stay: Ca'di Dio has knockout lagoon views and chic interiors. For a lively dining scene, Il Palazzo Experimental is the place to be at aperitivo hour. See our pick of the best hotels in Venice for more.

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St Barth's, Caribbean

Temperature: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: cool

Simply everyone is in St Barth's in December. Partly because the island is the original discreet-A-lister's sunny paradise of choice with the world's most perfect beaches, restaurants, hotels and villas, and partly because everyone else is. The super-rich, the super-famous, the beautiful and the blessed. Fail to book your December holiday here and you've only got yourself to blame for off-the-charts FOMO as you sit looking out at the rain and scrolling through shots of simply everyone else laughing through perfect teeth on the world's most perfect beaches.

Sustainable travel tip: Hotel Manapany is powered by solar panels. This chic beachside retreat also has an onsite vegetable garden and orchard, sources its seafood from local fishermen, and even offers electric-car rentals.

Where to stay: Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf offers a chic and easy French beach house stay. Another highlight is Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France , an elegant grande dame of St Barth’s sprawled along Flamands beach. See our guide to the best hotels in St Barth's for more.

Zermatt, Swiss Alps

Temperature: 2°C high; -6°C low Season: winter

The sort of snowy-mountain scene that dream Christmases are made of. Horse-drawn sleighs, twinkling trees, glühwein stalls, a pretty village aglow in a lovely little valley beneath the Matterhorn. And, importantly, snow-sure slopes – 200 astoundingly pretty kilometres of them – from the start of December. All of which makes Zermatt one of Europe's best ski resort .

Where to stay: Zermatt's oldest hotel, the Monte Rosa , sits in a picture-perfect property with amazing views.

Above: Skiers and snowboarders on the Matterhorn.

For a winter-sun tinselfest, nobody does it bigger and brighter and sparklier than Dubai. From November to January the weather cools to a more bearable 19-25ºC and the sun shines practically all the time; and in December there's the Rugby Sevens and a film festival, pre-Christmas designer sales and record-breaking Christmas trees groaning under the weight of lights and Swarovski crystals, for those who like that kind of thing. Everyone says they don't, then they go to Dubai and find that they kind of do.

Sustainable travel tip: Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, set among the wind-tower architecture of the Al Fahidi Historic District, by Dubai Creek. Here, share a traditional lunch with Emirati hosts and ask anything you’re curious to know about local culture, attitudes and Islam. The centre’s tagline: ‘Open doors. Open minds’.

Where to stay: For low-key luxe rooms and a private island setting, check in to the understated Bulgari Resort Dubai . If you're here to indulge in the beach and restaurant scene, Mandarin Oriental Dubai has both plus a high-achieving spa. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Dubai .

Milan, Italy

Temperature: 7°C high; 1°C low Season: winter

You might think Italy’s fashion capital too cool to care about Christmas, but Milan is actually one of Europe’s most festive cities this time of year. Early December marks a unique Milanese tradition, the feast of the patron saint, Sant’Ambrogio, wherein an irresistibly twinkly market sets up in the grounds of red-brick fortress Castello Sforzesco. Shop for local foodie treats and handmade trinkets, then reward yourself with mulled wine and castagnaccio (a chestnut and pine-kernel cake). After a sashay around the famous fashion quarter, head to newly cool Zona Tortona: best for Milan’s up-and-coming galleries and design studios (not to mention brunch-time tuna tacos at God Save The Food).

Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental is one of the hottest stays in the city, with a Michelin-star restaurant and a buzzing hotel bar. If you're here to embrace the grandeur, Four Seasons Milano is housed in a beautifully preserved 15th-century convent. See our guide to the best hotels in Milan for more.

Temperature : 27ºC high; 18ºC low Season: Summer

It’s the most peaceful and easygoing country in Central America, but Costa Rica still has bags of excitement and exoticism. Its Pacific coast draws surfers and bohemians practising yoga on its wave-crashed beaches in groovy little beach towns such as Nosara, while its gentle Caribbean shores and islands bring in backpackers and those looking for castaway escapism on its islands. In its interior: jungles, wildlife and volcanoes, with adrenaline kicks in the form of ziplining through the cloud-forest canopy, white-water rafting, hiking up volcanoes and tracking big cats in Corcovado National Park. December is prime beach weather in Costa Rica, and it’s also when humpback whales start to arrive, heading south in search of warmer waters – this is one of the best places in the world to spot them.

Sustainable travel tip: Costa Rica has a strong line in eco-lodges, from the beach to the jungle, and staying in them helps give back to local communities and conservation projects.

Where to stay: The Harmony Hotel is a Nosara institution, with its own Healing Centre (for wellness perks ranging from beach yoga classes to post-surf massages) and a lovely palm-shrouded pool.

Strasbourg, France

Temperature: 5ºC high; 0ºC low Season: Winter

We have Strasbourg to thank for the Christmas market . It was here that the first-ever Market of the Infant Christ took place in the 16th century. The capital of hearty-eating, wine-drinking, once-German Alsace also claims to be The Capital of Christmas. In its medieval Grande Ile – the whole historic city, with its preposterously pretty half-timbered houses, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – rosy-cheeked Alsatians glide around an ice rink, besides market stalls selling toys and trinkets, mulled wine and hot sausage. The tradition endures, though the gifts have been updated – it seems unlikely that they sold scented candles then, though those pretty houses would have benefitted from them after so many helpings of choucroute (French sauerkraut and the Strasbourg speciality, of fermented cabbage and sausage).

If you’re not making the journey just for the Christmas market – and many do – December is a good time to come for the food, in the city and beyond. Alsatian food and wine – full-bodied reds, piles of potatoes, pork in many forms, all very Germanic – is fortifying against the cold, and December is the region’s snowiest month.

Where to stay: In a set of half-timbered buildings, galleried around a cobbled courtyard, the Cour du Corbeau is as old and charming as the Christmas market. Top-floor suites look out across the medieval rooftops.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

Temperature : 27ºC high; 18ºC low Season: Spring

While showgirl Rio steals the limelight and the tourists, style capital Sao Paulo has a more savvy, insider feel. Its dynamic inhabitants are making waves in art and architecture, food and fashion – this is the place to shop for swimwear and homeware, then eat at Brazil’s most innovative restaurants. December brings warm, dry spring days, with temperatures on the rise, and there’s a real buzz about the city with lots going on (including São Paulo Art Biennial every other year) before residents decamp en masse to Trancoso or Buzios for the holiday beach parties.

Sustainable travel tip: Cool Pinheiros harbours the small and homegrown. Insecta is one of them – a sustainably-driven shoe shop selling vegan footwear locally made out of old clothes and soled with recycled rubber, and bags made from plastic bottles.

Where to stay: Sitting in 26 green acres of forested parkland in the elegant Morumbi neighbourhood, Pálacio Tangará is the city’s grandest dame. It opened in 2017, joining Hotel du Cap, Eden Rock and Le Bristol Paris as part of the Oetker Collection.

Temperature: 24ºC high; 19ºC low Season: Winter

It may be winter, but December is Miami ’s driest month, with daytime temperatures a beach-ready 24ºC. December is also party time – and this is a city that knows how to party. And it’s not just festive fiestas, but also Art Basel Miami Beach, which means parties, launches, shows and happenings all over the place – art has never been sexier – swiftly followed by Art Gaysel, the world’s Queerest Art Fair. Even those who don’t give a fig for art can get involved in the buzz of Miami Design District. Don’t miss murals and music at Basel House .

Sustainable travel tip: Asian restaurant Kyu , which serves up zingy, elegantly plated dishes in Wynwood, supports local partnerships as well as donating trees to African countries to offset the wood they burn to grill their cauliflower, octopus and wagyu beef.

Where to stay: In the last few years a bunch of all-star design hotels have opened in Miami Beach, but Faena endures as one of the funkiest and best.

Canouan, The Grenadines

Temperature: 28ºC high; 21ºC low Season: dry

It’s the month to see and be seen in the Caribbean . But if you’d rather run away and hide, Canouan makes a fine place to fly under the radar. While everyone else swans around St Barth’s, you can feel smug about Canouan’s tag: ‘The place where billionaires go to get away from millionaires’. Though, thankfully, you don’t need to make ten figures to stay at this tiny island’s Mandarin Oriental , the first in the region, where an Oceanview Suite will set you back a cool four figures instead.

Sustainable travel tip: Canouan is one of only a small number of islands from which you can access Tobago Cays. The Cays are a protected archipelago of small, uninhabited islands and pristine coral reefs. They’re the major government-owned attraction in St Vincent and the Grenadines, so many local vendors and guides depend on them.

Bogota, Colombia

Temperature: 20ºC high; 5ºC low Season: dry

Cartagena hogs all the column inches with its Caribbean-side colonial charms, but for a contemporary sense of Colombia and its creative energies, capital Bogota is the country’s vital – and seriously overlooked – heart. The city’s reputation for rain abates in December, the beginning of the dry season, when the usually chilly climate clings pleasantly to the 20ºCs. Understandably, most make a beeline for La Candelaria, an irresistible mash-up of colonial buildings, cobbles, on-point restaurants and street art, but quietly cool Chapinero Alto is also making a name for itself: think cocktails and vinyl nights at Rin Rin, or a mansion turned multi-level boutique shopping mall, Trama Casa de Creadores. The best views? At the top of 10,000ft Cerro de Monserrate, easily reached by cable car. In December, the peak is decorated with Christmas lights, a fabulous follow-up to sunset.

Sustainable travel tip: An hour or two’s drive outside of Bogota, Chingaza National Natural Park protects residents including the rare spectacled bear, jaguars, toucans and Andean condors. The best way to see it is to book a day hike with a local guide.

Where to stay: The hushed Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota feels like a stately home. A sympathetic renovation has enshrined the historical vibe while kicking in smart contemporary elements.

Uganda, Africa

Temperature: 28°C high; 16°C low Season: dry

It’s a busy month for tourism to Uganda for good reason: landscapes are lush, but the weather is dry, making the conditions ideal for gorilla tracking. December is also a fine time for boat safaris in search of the Big Five, as animals are drawn from dry land to water sources. Still, as it is a more under-the-radar East African destination, ‘busy’ here is a relative term. Our top tip? Pair wildlife adventures with a trek into the urban jungle. The capital city Kampala is surprisingly charming, between boozy nights at the Sheraton’s well-loved Equator Bar, two-hour-roasted crocodile tail at barbecue restaurant The Lawns, and contemporary shows at Afriart Gallery.

Sustainable travel tip: Check out the Batwa Experience , which offers rainforest hikes with guides from the Batwa tribe, during which you can learn about their history and culture. The Batwa people were evicted from their homeland, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, to create the national park that protects the area’s endangered gorillas; these tours are the only chance they have to revisit their home territory.

Where to stay: At Gorilla Forest Camp , the most established lodge in the region and the only place to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. And thanks to an ongoing process of habituation and protection, it is possible to track one of four gorilla families living in the area from here.

Yellowstone, USA

Temperature: -4°C high; -15°C low Season: winter

The world’s first national park is packed pretty much every season outside of winter – but the crowds on those geyser-skimming boardwalks are missing a trick. December is an excellent time for wildlife-spotting, as everything from brown bears to bison pad through thick powder to hot springs for warmth. Snowcoach tours take you to all the main draws – Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone – and you can even ski or snowshoe to sights that you’ll likely have to yourself. Even better, the contrast between the serene snow scene and Yellowstone’s violent volcanic landscape (bubbling mud-pots, steaming rivers) is something you’ll never forget.

Sustainable travel tip: Consider staying in one of the national park’s winter lodges . They’ve done a lot of work on sustainability, including comprehensive recycling, composting, and energy and water conservation; farm-to-fork food; and fuel-efficient tour vehicles.

Fiji, South Pacific 

Temperature: 31°C high; 22°C low Season: wet

There’s nowhere like Fiji to make UK -in-December gloom seem like a distant memory. Tuck your toes into its dazzling-white sands and you’re officially on Fiji time. When friendly, frangipani-decorated locals say ‘no hurries, no worries’, it’s less a catchphrase, more a way of life. December falls early in the rainy season, meaning occasional, short bursts of afternoon showers relieve the midday heat. Following 2016’s devastating Cyclone Winston, more eco-friendly, culturally aware hotels are popping up to challenge the decadent, mega-honeymoon properties: a Six Senses – set where Tom Hanks filmed Cast Away – runs on Tesla batteries and cooks using organic, locally foraged finds.

Sustainable travel tip: Getting off the beach and out of the hotel is the best way to interact with and contribute to local communities. It’s possible to take multi-day hiking trips into Fiji’s jungles and mountains, which include sleeping in homestays, visiting tribal villages and learning about authentic island life from a local guide. Check out Responsible Travel for more.

Where to stay: Nowhere is the welcoming song as heartfelt as at Likuliku Lagoon Resort . The 10 overwater bungalows here are the only ones in Fiji.

Kyoto, Japan

Temperature: 11°C high; 2°C low Season: winter

Japan ’s favourite holiday is New Year (or Oshogatsu). And where better to join in the festivities than its former imperial capital and keeper of ancient traditions? The whole month of December sees Kyoto filled with markets and festivals: Kobo-san and Tenjin-san fleas are big favourites, held around the temples of the same name, and packed with Japanese antiques, kimonos and food carts. Held in early December, Arashiyama Hanatouro is a magical lantern festival that illuminates the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest. Don’t miss the nightly temple illuminations, either: if you get lucky, it might even snow.

Sustainable travel tip: Kyoto is one of the best bicycling cities in Asia, and many of the major temples and museums offer bicycle parking. Note, though, that it’s illegal to park a bike anywhere other than a designated area.

Where to stay: Aman Kyoto is a secret woodland treasure, with hilly woodland, sculptural paving stones, a tranquil onsen and giant wooden bathtubs.

Madagascar, Indian Ocean

Temperature: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: wet

Desperate to feel a world away from dark, damp December streets? Madagascar will do the trick. The primordial island is, of course, best known for lemurs, wildly coloured chameleons and implausible creatures such as the giraffe weevil (go on, Google it). But there’s more to Madagascar’s otherworldliness than rich rainforests. Don’t miss the southern deserts’ spiny woodlands, or the near-impenetrable limestone karst warren of Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Early December is a good, off-season time to visit, before heavier rains move in later in the month. Private island Miavana , on the east coast’s Nosy Ankao, has an audacious collection of mid-century-modern, stone-cut villas, and might just be the smartest castaway escape in the world.

Sustainable travel tip: More than 70 per cent of people in Madagascar live below the poverty line, so supporting initiatives that benefit local communities here is vital. Check out initiatives such as Anja Community Reserve, a protected forest home to ring-tailed lemurs, which is managed by the people of Anja village.

Where to stay: At sensationally beautiful private-island hotel Miavana .

Krakow, Poland

Temperature: 3°C high; -4°C low Season: winter

Krakow in December looks like a Christmas card. The Old Town’s medieval main square, Rynek Główny, is all cobblestones, horse-and-carriage rides, and Christmas markets dishing up dumplings and pork knuckles. Load up on artisan baubles from the stalls, then duck into one of the district’s snug cellar bars for a restorative nip of flavoured vodka (the ubiquitous cherry is fantastic). Unlike many stag-do-spoiled parts of Eastern Europe, Poland ’s second city also packs a sophisticated nightlife buzz. Tytano, an old tobacco factory, is now a complex of cool bars and restaurants (go for craft cocktails at Lastriko), while the Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, has seen its decrepit tenement buildings given new life by numerous shabby-chic bars.

Where to stay: Bedding down in the sleek and stylish Puro Hotel places you in the heart of the Old Town.

Tasmania, Australia

Temperature: 23°C high; 11°C low Season: summer

‘Tassie’ has officially made the leap from bogan to buzzing. And it’s all because of eccentric, multi-millionaire David Walsh, whose irreverent Museum of Old and New Art made headlines when it opened in 2011, due to its risqué pieces, including a plaster wall of vulvas. Now, it’s widely regarded as Australia’s best museum. With that, an edgy crowd are taking over the island and the capital, Hobart, has been transformed. Designer digs such as the sandstone Henry Jones Art Hotel are de rigueur. Revered restaurants including Franklin serve Tasmanian produce: wood-roasted octopus, raw wallaby. The island’s sparkling wine has been raking in global acclaim over the past few years, too. Drink it all at the annual Taste of Tasmania festival, which kicks off in late December, taking rich pickings from the abundant Australian summer.

Sustainable travel tip: One of the best things about Tassie is its untamed wilderness, conserved by both the Parks and Wildlife Service and its Aboriginal peoples. Don’t underestimate the Aussie bush, though: it’s best explored with local operators. The likes of Tasmanian Expeditions take care to use locally owned accommodation, local food producers and local activity suppliers, as well as protecting places of natural, historic and Aboriginal value.

Where to stay: Pumphouse Point , a decommissioned hydro-electric power station on Lake St Clair, has 180-degree views of the lake.

Berlin, Germany

Temperature: 4°C high; 0°C low Season: winter

There is no bad time to visit Berlin . We love the city in summer, mooching around its kooky-krazy hangouts of creative weirdness – but what a place to party in December! More kookiness in its clubs and bars and the underground haunts of its cool-as-you-like neighbourhoods; and Berlin is one of the best places to spend New Year's Eve in the world, when they throw a city-wide street party with gigs and celebrations all along the Party Mile.

Sustainable travel tip: Trust cutting-edge Berlin to have a thriving sustainable food scene. At vegan FREA, dishes are made using produce from local organic farmers, and the restaurant’s food waste is then composted and returned to those suppliers for use on their crops. For a smart ethical supper, try a 10-course tasting menu of Berlin-grown fare at Nobelhart & Schmutzig in Kreuzberg.

Where to stay: Restored Art Nouveau gem Hotel Am Steinplatz has Moorish arched windows, ornate stucco work and marble flooring.

Temperature: 33°C high; 22°C low Season: cool

Goa is love-it crazy in December. Every palm tree strung with tinsel and fairy lights, every beach bar rocking with the most beautiful happy-go-lucky just-found-themselves travellers dancing like loons, night and day. The weather is just perfect, and the parties reach fever pitch. Christmas is cause for great celebration throughout India—no more so than in Goa, garlanded and lit up with fireworks, Christmas trees and Santa hats incongruous in the heat and dust. This all rolls into New Year's Eve celebrations, with parties on the beaches and bars. It gets busy, so book ahead.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s a decent crop of hangouts here serving all-organic vegetarian meals and extolling the virtues of harmony with nature. Yogamagic Eco Retreat , just inland from Anjuna, has both glamping tents and main-house rooms built from reclaimed materials (old haveli doors, furniture made from recycled teak wood or railway sleepers), the showers are solar-heated, and vegetarian and vegan meals are homegrown and locally sourced.

Where to stay: Ahilya by the Sea overlooks a bay of fishing boats in Nerul, and has an airy, beach-house vibe.

Cambodia and Laos

Temperature: Around 30°C high; 20°C low Season: dry

Southeast Asia is wonderful in December, the climate just right - which does mean that yes, everyone else wants to visit then, too. But why come when it is wet and unbearably hot? Come in December, and embrace the holiday season, when places to eat and drink are buzzing, when Laos 's beautiful colonial towns (we adore Luang Prabang ) have a happy bustle to them, when Siem Reap is at its liveliest. Cambodia and Laos are big and largely empty countries, where it is always possible to find some space to yourself, even at Angkor Wat (go for sunrise, wherever possible). It might take a bit more planning and booking ahead, but there if you want to be spontaneous there is always a room in a charming teak house to be found, where birds sing in the banana trees beside the verandah.

Sustainable travel tip : Cambodia’s social-enterprise restaurants are a great way to support local communities in a long-term way, as they offer free hospitality training to young, underprivileged people, helping them forge sustainable careers. In Siem Reap, Sala Baï is a riverside restaurant created by French NGO APLC; capital Phnom Penh has Romdeng, set in a gorgeous colonial building and run by local NGO Mith Samlanh.

Where to stay: Set on a private island, Six Senses Krabey Island has 40 villas and a vast spa.

Surely nowhere is prettier in the snow than Prague . Those perfectly preserved ancient streets, like a fairytale (with a real castle!); those cinnamon-scented Christmas markets where mulled wine makes us buy weird presents and too many Christmas decorations. Pretty, yes, but Prague is also cold as hell in December, which only serves to make its richly-patterned restaurants all the cosier and justify its just-as-rich and fortifying cuisine. Sit in its Art Nouveau gilded interiors, or its underground bars, and warm yourself with roast game and booze.

Where to stay: The Augustine Hotel is set in a medieval astrological tower, with 360-degree views, and a suite that is at eye-level with Prague Castle.

Temperature: 28°C high; 16°C low Season: summer

The South American beach break with a difference. Most of Uruguay 's neverending white-sand beaches are practically empty even in high season. That high season lasts just a few weeks, in December, and if you like things lively ( Ibiza , Mykonos , Trancoso style), that's when you want to come. You can still find a beach pretty much to yourself, around hippy little José Ignacio , La Barra and Punta del Este . But December is when the wooden-shack restaurants and beach bars and artsy little hotels open their shutters for the Buenos Aires party crowd who hop across the River Plate for Christmas and New Year fun.

Sustainable travel tip: Local studio MAPA Architects designed eco-boutique Sacromonte , a complex of cabins made from regionally sourced wood and stone, tucked into 250 acres of mountain landscape less than an hour from coastal town José Ignacio. It has a vineyard, two organic gardens and onsite wastewater bio-digesters, and offers guided hiking and horseback rides through the surrounding sierras.

Where to stay: Casa Anna , from Argentine chef Francis Mallman, transformed the tiny hamlet of Garzon.

The Arctic Circle

Temperature: -3°C high; -9°C low Season: winter

What better time to visit the North Pole than December, for Christmas? When a sleigh ride through Lapland, pulled by reindeer or huskies, is surely most unforgettable, when the glittering frozen Narnia landscapes of the Arctic Circle are most magical. And when the lightshow in the skies, the Northern Lights, playing all the colours of the spectrum over Iceland , Finland , Norway and Sweden , is at its brightest and best.

Sustainable travel tip: Experiences with the indigenous Sami people of Lapland are becoming ever-more popular, but be sure that the operator is providing a genuine connection with their culture (rather than a ‘show’). Done right, this kind of tourism helps boost a local economy that can only rely on a lucrative revenue stream – tourism – a few months of the year. Magnetic North Travel , for example, organises time with genuine reindeer herders and their families, so you get a real sense of their way of life.

Where to stay: In Swedish Lapland, check out Treehotel , where rooms are not on the ground but above it, in the trees.

Temperature: 29°C high; 20°C low Season: summer

About 1,200 miles off the coast of Madagascar, on the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is an island nation that punches well above its weight. Often spoken about in the same breath as the Maldives, Mauritius dances to the rhythm of its own drum. The natural landscape here is some of the most beautiful in the world, with lush trails and astonishing birdlife and untouched beaches. December is summer in Mauritius, and one of the best times to visit for your own castaway adventure.

Where to stay: At the island’s most lauded hotel, LUX* Grand Baie , or old timer One&Only Le Saint Géran . See our round up of the best hotels in Mauritius for more ideas.

Temperature: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: summer

Pristine beaches, staggering piton peaks, glimmering waterfalls, swooping wildlife and lush rainforests – the Caribbean island of St Lucia is one of the loveliest. Dry season is from December to April, and the weather is breezier and less humid as the year draws to its close. December also sees a handful of festivals take over the island; such as the feast day of St Lucy of Syracuse, a festival of lights.

Where to stay: At palm-fringed Sugar Beach in your choice of beachfront bungalows or hillside villas. See our edit of the best hotels in St Lucia for more inspiration.

Temperature: 31°C high; 24°C low Season: dry

The teardrop island has it all: gorgeous beaches, astonishing ancient ruins, lush hill country and sprawling national parks where you can embark on a safari to see elephants and leopards, oh my. This is a destination for foodies, too – as this restaurant critic's search for the best food in Sri Lanka shows. Cosmopolitan capital Colombo is buzzing, while Yala National Park is the place-to-be for animal lovers. And in December, you can expect hours of sunshine and dry days for exploring.

Where to stay: Among the best Sri Lanka hotels are chic safari lodge Wild Coast Tented Lodge and 300-year-old grand dame Amangalla .

First published on CNT UK

Paris   Travel Guide

Courtesy of James Farley | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Paris

The best time to visit Paris is from June to August and September to October. Both summer and fall have its ups and downs. From June to August the weather in Paris is just about  parfait (perfect). Average highs are in the high 70s and there are long days of sunshine. Unfortunately, summer is also the most crowded time – and the most expensive. For lower travel rates and significantly shorter lines at attractions , plan a visit in the fall. The seasonal foliage is known to stun, though the city's spring blooms are pretty famous too. If a travel deal is all that you're after, a visit during the winter will surely shave off travel expenses. Keep in mind though that Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, seeing upward of 30 million travelers yearly. So no matter what time you visit, there will always be tourists and some crowds. 

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Intro offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

60,000 bonus points

We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program , showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.

Rewards rate

5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

• 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
• 2x 2x on all other travel purchases.
• 1x 1x on all other purchases.

What we love: This popular card comes loaded with features that can make it easy even for occasional travelers to offset the modest $95 annual fee without eating into hard-earned rewards. Plus, its rewards program is one of the best, giving you some of the most valuable travel redemptions — through both Chase and transfer partners — and Chase card pairing opportunities if you want to build your card portfolio eventually. Learn more: Why expert Margaret Weck loves using the Chase Sapphire Preferred Alternatives:   If you’re looking for an even simpler travel card, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a terrific option. Its flat rewards rate makes it easy to know exactly how much you’ll earn with every purchase and though it can’t match the Sapphire Preferred’s redemption flexibility, it offers more redemption options than the typical travel rewards card. 

• You earn Ultimate Rewards points with this card — some of the most valuable and flexible rewards around, especially if you pair it with Chase’s cash back cards in the future.
• The card touts significant long-term benefits like anniversary bonus points and travel credits, as well as travel protections like trip cancellation insurance and a car rental collision damage waiver.
• Doesn’t offer airline- or hotel-specific perks like free checked bags, elite status or free night stays.
• The sign-up bonus is decent, but the card has previously offered higher, chart-topping bonus points.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Best for flat-rate rewards

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

Earn 75,000 miles

5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

2 Miles - 5 Miles

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

• 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2 Miles 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day

What we love: It’s a great option for travelers looking for a straightforward rewards program and flexible redemption options. You'll earn unlimited miles on all eligible spending and can redeem not only for travel bookings, but also as a statement credit to cover travel purchases made in the past 90 days. Learn more: Why expert Jacqueline DeMarco loves the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a higher rewards rate in some everyday spending categories and potentially more valuable points. Chase points are worth 1.25 cents each if you redeem for travel through Chase, while Capital One miles are only worth 1 cent each when you redeem for travel. Plus, Chase rewards are more helpful for occasional travelers since you can redeem as cash back at 1-cent-per-point value.

• Carries solid perks given its low annual fee, including expedited airport purchase security and hotel experience credits, lost luggage reimbursement and more.
• Zero foreign transaction fees make this an excellent choice for international travelers.
• You can’t offset the annual fee with annual travel credits or bonuses alone as you can with some rival cards.
• The card’s sign-up bonus carries a high spending requirement, so it may be tough to earn if you don’t have large purchases on the horizon.
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Best for luxury travel

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 80,000 points

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

See Pay Over Time APR

• 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

What we love: Luxury travelers and big spenders will appreciate the bevy of travel benefits, including annual statement credits worth around $1,700, elite hotel loyalty status and access to perhaps the most comprehensive airport lounge access available with a credit card. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Platinum Card® from American Express Alternatives: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a taste of luxury at a lower cost than many premium travel cards. You can unlock a generous rewards rate on both travel and general purchases, complimentary access to popular airport lounge memberships and valuable annual travel credits and anniversary miles.

• Comes with a generous welcome offer and a longer time period to earn it compared to most rewards cards.
• A robust line-up of airline and hotel partners and related perks make this card truly valuable for travelers.
• The $695 annual fee may not be worth it if you don’t spend much on travel frequently or can’t take full advantage of the card’s luxury — and often niche — perks.
• Redeeming and maximizing the card’s credit and benefits requires some legwork and can be a bit confusing.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Best for no annual fee

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel

20,000 miles

5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

1.25 Miles - 5 Miles

• 1.25 Miles 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day

What we love: This card offers some of the same advantages as the Capital One Venture, without the burden of an annual fee. It gives you the chance to earn flat-rate miles on your everyday spending and the option to transfer miles to over 15 loyalty program partners to even cover travel purchases outside Capital One — a unique level of redemption flexibility for a starter travel card. Learn more: Reasons to get the VentureOne Rewards Card Alternatives: A general-purpose flat-rate credit card that offers 2X points or 2 percent cash back on all purchases may bring more value if you don’t travel often and aren’t ready to upgrade to a travel rewards credit card with an annual fee. However, the Discover it® Miles earns a flat-rate 1.5X miles that can also be redeemed for cash back at 1-cent per mile, which is unusual for travel rewards.

• The welcome offer is generous for a no-annual-fee travel credit card.
• Booking hotel stays and rental cars through Capital One Travel nets you an impressive 5X miles.
• Unlike several no-annual-fee travel cards, redeeming for non-travel purchases waters down your rewards’ value.
• Capital One has no major U.S. carrier in its line-up of travel partners.
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Best for foodies

American Express® Gold Card

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• 3X Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

What we love: Few credit cards are more rewarding for traveling foodies than the American Express Gold Card. Both the food-related annual credits and the rewards rates at restaurants, U.S. supermarkets and on flights booked directly with airlines or via the Amex travel portal are some of the best on the market. In fact, the up to $240 in credits each year alone nearly make up for the annual fee. Learn more: Why the Amex Gold is worth the annual fee Alternatives: If the Amex Gold Card’s annual fee sounds high, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . It carries key travel perks, high travel and dining rewards rates, and a much lower annual fee.

• This card features one of the best rewards return rates available on dining, groceries and food deliveries.
• There is no preset spending limit, so you can enjoy extended purchasing power, and you also have the option to pay off purchases with Pay Over Time if necessary.
• Although the card touts a solid collection of travel perks, it doesn’t include popular premium card perks like airport lounge access or trip cancellation/interruption insurance.
• Only eligible airfare earns more than 1X points, while rival cards often earn similar (or higher) reward rates on hotel stays and other travel purchases as well.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Best for everyday spending

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

• Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

70,000 bonus points

Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

• 10X Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• 3X Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• 1X Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases

What we love: This card’s high rewards rate in everyday bonus categories makes it an especially good choice for occasional travelers and people looking for a standalone rewards card. Its practical bonus categories mean you can earn rewards quickly, even if you don’t actually spend a ton on travel. Alternatives:   As long as you don’t mind buying groceries online, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card could be an even more lucrative everyday rewards card. That’s thanks mostly to its high point redemption value (1.25 cents per point when you use points to book travel with Chase, versus just 1 cent per point when you book with Citi using the Strata Premier).

• It’s one of the only travel cards that offers a high rewards rate on groceries, dining and gas, so it should work well whether it’s your standalone card or just one part of your card stack.
• Its annual hotel benefit carries enough value to potentially offset the annual fee on its own.
• The annual hotel benefit, though generous, isn’t very flexible: You’ll only get the $100 discount if you book a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) through CitiTravel.com.
• Based on Bankrate’s latest point and mile valuations, Citi ThankYou rewards carry a lower average redemption value than Chase, Amex and Capital One rewards.
• Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Best for intro APR

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

25,000 points

• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.

19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

• 1.5X Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.

What we love: This entry-level travel card keeps things simple for occasional travelers. It offers simple flat-rate rewards and lets you redeem for a broad mix of travel options not typically available on many travel cards, such as cash back toward purchases with travel agencies,  zoos, art galleries and more. It’s even more valuable if you’re a Bank of America customer and can qualify for a rewards boost through the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program. Learn more: Is the Bank of America Travel Rewards card worth it? Alternatives: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is another great starter travel card, but, unlike many cards in this category, it lets you transfer your miles to airline and hotel partners, potentially for a higher redemption value.

• Its easy-to-earn sign-up bonus and intro APR offers give this card good short-term value.
• No annual fees or foreign transaction fees sweeten this offer.
• It only offers 1.5X points on purchases, and you can’t transfer points can’t to airline partners for more rewards value, so it may not be as lucrative as competing cards.
• The top tiers of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program may be out of reach for many cardholders.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Best for point values

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠. Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining. Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

22.49% - 29.49% Variable

• 10x Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠.
• 5x Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
• 1x Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

What we love: Rewards-savvy travelers will be hard-pressed to find a card with better rewards potential than the Sapphire Reserve. Points are worth 50 percent more through Chase Travel, and potentially more with the right transfer partner. It’s a stellar partner for Chase’s cash back cards and stacks on even more value with enough perks to recoup the annual fee without relying on hard-earned rewards. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Alternatives: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers some of the same key perks as the Sapphire Reserve at a much lower cost. Along with a generous rewards rate on both Capital One Travel and general purchases, the card boasts valuable, practical benefits like competitive airport lounge access , up to $300 in annual Capital One Travel credits and 10,000 bonus miles every year on your account anniversary.

• You can kickstart your rewards bank with one of the most valuable sign-up bonuses on the market.
• Its top-tier benefits include up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, Priority Pass airport lounge access, exhaustive travel protections and stand-out partner perks.
• The card’s cost could be a deterrent for some new cardholders, especially if they plan on encountering adding multiple authorized users.
• You won’t get as many luxury hotel and airport lounge perks with this card as you would with some of its rivals.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Best for practical perks

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

75,000 miles

10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

2 Miles - 10 Miles

• 10 Miles 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel

What we love: This is the perfect middleground for travelers who want the practical benefits from luxury travel cards without dealing with bloated features and an annual fee upwards of $500. It offers complimentary lounge access, high-earning bonus rewards categories, anniversary credits and bonus miles, which can easily make the card worth it for frequent travelers. Learn more: Capital One Venture X Benefits Guide Alternatives: If a higher annual fee is no issue, consider The Platinum Card® from American Express. It’s a top choice for frequent travelers thanks to its impressive welcome offer and luxury perks like annual travel credits, lounge access and hotel elite status. However, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® may be better if your luxury travel experience calls for racking up more rewards.

• Offers anniversary bonus miles and a chance to earn credits worth hundreds of dollars starting at your first account anniversary.
• Comes with complimentary lounge access at over 1,300 lounges for you and two guests per visit.
• To earn the anniversary credit, travel must be booked through the Capital One Travel portal. That’s not as flexible as some other cards, which offer credits that cover any travel purchases, regardless of how you book.
• Lacks some perks found on other premium travel cards like airline or hotel elite status, which can get you benefits like free checked bags or room upgrades.
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Best for pairing

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.

Up to $300 cash back

Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service. 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

• 5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more.
• 3% 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service.
• 1.5% 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

What we love: Not only does it earn 1.5 percent cash back on general spending, but it also has a bonus cash back rate for drugstores and dining at restaurants. And if you pair it with one or two premium Chase travel cards, you could pool your rewards for better travel redemption value.  Learn more: Why I love the Chase Freedom Unlimited Alternatives: If you want to take advantage of even more rewarding cash back categories and remain in the Chase family, consider the Chase Freedom Flex® .

• You can pool rewards with other Chase cards to maximize your earnings.
• The additional rewards rate offer can add even more cash back to your pocket for the first year.
• The welcome offer isn’t as competitive as other cards’ offers.
• Maximizing rewards with this and other Chase cards can get complicated for people who like simple rewards programs.
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Best for hotel bookings

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels. Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines. Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

• 5X Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels
• 4X Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines
• 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants
• 1X Earn 1X points on other purchases

What we love: It offers a great rewards rate on hotel bookings and gives you a chance to earn a $50 annual statement credit with a $50 minimum airline purchase. Add in a solid rate on airline purchases, other travel and restaurants and this card carries great value as a standalone mid-tier card for occasional travelers. Alternatives: If you want to earn travel rewards but don’t actually spend much on hotels and airfare, the lower-tier Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is also worth a look. Though it earns also rewards on travel, it boasts a great mix of other practical everyday categories (including gas stations).

• You can transfer points to Wells Fargo’s new list of airline and hotel partners, including popular programs like British Airways Executive Club, Choice Privileges and more, which could boost the redemption value of your rewards.
• The $50 annual statement credit offsets more than half the card’s $95 annual fee and should be a cinch to earn if you fly at least once per year.
• Wells Fargo only offers one other card that earns travel rewards (the Autograph), and there is some category overlap between the two, so they may not be as lucrative as some competing card stacks.
• The card doesn’t carry some popular travel perks available on other mid-tier travel cards, such as credits for expedited airport security screening or rideshares.
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Best no-annual-fee hotel card

Hilton Honors American Express Card

• Earn 70,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.

Earn 70,000 points

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

20.99%-29.99% Variable

• 7X Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• 5X Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• 3X Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

What we love: This card earns rewards in a terrific mix of everyday bonus categories, so it should be easy to rack up Hilton points even if you don’t spend a ton on hotel bookings. Since it charges no annual fee and provides a few Hilton Honors benefits like Silver status, it’s also a great fit if you’re new to hotel cards and want a single no-annual-fee option instead of juggling multiple rewards cards. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Hilton Honors American Express Card Alternatives: The American Express® Green Card could be more flexible since it lets you earn and redeem rewards on a much wider variety of travel purchases, including airfare and bookings with several hotel brands, not just Hilton. You can transfer points to the Hilton Honors program as well, but the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card may be better if you prefer upgraded Hilton-specific rewards, loyalty status and other perks.

• Comes with automatic Silver Elite status, which includes a free fifth award night when you book at least four consecutive nights with points.
• Earns rewards in three of the average person’s biggest spending categories, making it a terrific standalone option for earning Hilton points.
• A higher-tier Hilton card would earn more on Hilton bookings and could be more lucrative for frequent guests, even with an annual fee.
• You can only redeem points with Hilton and its partners, which limits the rewards value you earn on the everyday categories compared to a general-purpose cards’ rewards.
• Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
• No Annual Fee.

Best for luxury hotel perks

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points

• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• 6X Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
• 3X 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
• 2X 2X points on all other eligible purchases

What we love: Frequent Marriott guests looking for luxury card-level perks and elite status should be able to justify this premium card. Along with a terrific rewards rate on Marriott bookings and an annual free night award, you could enjoy generous annual credits for restaurant purchases and Marriott property stays, airport lounge access, elite night credits and more. Learn more: Best Marriott credit cards Alternatives: If you’re looking for top-tier travel perks but want the flexibility to earn and redeem rewards for stays at any hotel chain, consider an elite travel card from Chase or Amex, which can come with generous travel benefits, airport lounge access and the ability to transfer points to Marriott. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is another lucrative alternative.

• Outperforms other Marriott cards with its boosted rewards on travel-related categories and 21X points at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, thanks to the automatic Platinum Elite status.
• It’s one of the only hotel cards that includes complimentary Priority Pass lounge access, top travel protections and credits for expedited airport security screening.
• Unlocking some of the card’s best perks — like Five Suite Night Awards — requires a $60,000 annual spend, which may be tough to reach even for frequent Marriott guests.
• Unless luxury perks are at the top of your wishlist, the annual fee may not be worth it and a lower-tier hotel card may offer more value overall.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.

Best for transfer partners

Bilt Mastercard®

Intro offer is not available for this Wells Fargo credit card.

3x points on dining. 2x points on travel. 1x points on other purchases. Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. When you make at least 5 posted transactions in a statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.

1X Points - 3X Points

• 3X Points 3x points on dining
• 2X Points 2x points on travel
• 1X Points 1x points on other purchases
• 1X Points Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. When you make at least 5 posted transactions in a statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.

What we love: Not only is this card is a terrific choice for renters since it earns rewards and waives transaction fees when using it to pay rent, it’s also great for rewards strategists considering the extremely robust travel rewards program. You can earn rewards on travel and dining and your points carry a high value whether you redeem through the Bilt travel portal or one of the many airline and hotel transfer partners. Alternatives: If you like the Bilt card’s travel rewards program but don’t see yourself renting long term, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. It earns generously on both travel and dining and also boasts high-value points and transfer partners. If the way you pay rent doesn’t incur credit card payment fees, a flat-rate card may also be worth weighing. 

• It’s the only card that helps you avoid the fees typically associated with paying rent with a credit card.
• Offers a solid collection of travel perks for a no-annual-fee card, including trip cancellation and interruption protection, trip delay reimbursement and other high-level travel protections.
• You can only use rewards to cover rent, toward a future home down payment or for travel and shopping. Cash back isn’t an option.
• There is no sign-up bonus. Most competing travel cards — even those with no annual fee — offer at least a $200 bonus.
• $0 Annual Fee.
• Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year.
• 2x points on travel.
• 3x points on dining.
• 1x points on other purchases.
• Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period.
• When renting at a Bilt Alliance property, you can choose to have your rent payments automatically reported by Bilt to the three major credit bureaus each month; Experian™, TransUnion™, and Equifax™.

Best for gas

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points

Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

• 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans.

What we love: The Wells Fargo Autograph card is a great option for occasional travelers and households on the go looking to earn rewards while avoiding an annual fee and reduced redemption value for cash rewards. It’s one of a few entry-level travel cards to offer high, year-round bonus rewards for gas, dining, transit and other key travel needs. Learn more: Is the Wells Fargo Autograph worth it? Alternatives: If you’re looking for ways to maximize the value of your rewards, you should consider a travel card that lets you transfer your points to airlines or hotels, like the Bilt Mastercard® or Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.

• While some issuers only reward travel purchases made directly with airlines or through issuer portals, this card lets you shop around for the best deal on third-party travel sites and still earn extra rewards.
• Carries decent perks such as rental car collision damage waiver coverage, roadside assistance and Visa Signature® Concierge benefits, like access to Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection (terms apply).
• Unlike with traditional travel cards, you cannot transfer your points to airlines or hotels
• The travel perks and intro APR are weak compared to competing travel-oriented cards’ offers.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

Best for companion tickets

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

• Earn 85,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 85,000 miles

Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels. Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

• 3X Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
• 2X Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
• 1X Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

What we love: The annual companion certificate on Main Cabin domestic flights (taxes and fees apply) comes with this card after the first year is valuable enough to justify the annual fee even if you’re just looking for great Delta perks to make travel smoother with a partner. Plus, the companion certificate is easier to obtain than other airline cards’ since it carries no spending requirement that must be met beyond the card’s annual fee. Alternatives: The American Express® Green Card could be a great alternative since it charges a lower $150 annual fee, lets you earn and redeem rewards on travel with any eligible airline (not just Delta) and offers credits for Loungebuddy lounge access and Clear Plus. You can even transfer points to Delta at a 1:1 ratio.

• Boasts several valuable travel perks, including priority boarding, a free first checked bag and specialized annual credits for select rideshare services and reservations with Delta Stays and Resy.
• Gets you closer to Medallion Status and discounts on in-flight purchases, complimentary upgrades, and more.
• Its rewards rate on non-travel purchases is lacking — a general-purpose travel card could potentially offer better rewards value and flexibility for rewards travel outside Delta.
• No longer offers complimentary Delta Sky Club lounge access as of this year, although airport lounge access is a staple perk for premium travel cards.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
• Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
• $350 Annual Fee.

Best starter airline card

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

• Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 85,000 points

Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming. Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

• 2X Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• 2X Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 2X Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2X Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
• 1X Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

What we love: This card’s anniversary bonus offers enough value to nearly offset the annual fee on its own, so it should be a terrific low-stakes option whether you’re new to airline cards or a regular Southwest flyer looking for a low-maintenance card. Plus, its sign-up bonus value is on par with the value you’ll get with much pricier airline and travel cards. Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus benefits guide Alternatives: The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card could offer better value overall, despite its $149 annual fee. It carries an annual $75 Southwest travel credit and 7,500 bonus points each year on your account anniversary — more than enough value to justify the higher fee.

• You’ll automatically earn 3,000 Rapid Rewards points each year after your account anniversary, which could offset much of the card’s already-low annual fee.
• Delivers the same hefty sign-up bonus as higher-tier Southwest cards.
• Unlike several travel cards, it doesn’t carry rewards categories for popular everyday purchases like gas or dining.
• It may not be the best Southwest value for frequent flyers since it poses a 3 percent foreign transaction fee and doesn’t offer perks like upgraded boardings or elite status benefits.
• 3,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Best for savers

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

• Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

60,000 points

Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases. Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

• 2X Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases.
• 1.5X Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

What we love: If you do your banking with Bank of America and qualify for Preferred Rewards status, this card could provide an exclusive 25 percent to 75 percent rewards rate boost. The  rewards rates — 2X points on dining and travel, with 1.5X points on all other purchases — could increase to an incredible 3.5X on travel and dining with an unrivaled flat 2.62X points rate. Learn more: Why expert Sara Coleman loves the Bank of America Premium Rewards Card Alternatives: The similarly-priced Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best alternatives thanks to its stellar travel protections, yearly bonus rewards and stronger rewards program. However, flat-rate cards like the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card or the Discover it® Miles card could be lucrative if you don’t think the $95 annual fee is worth it.

• The $95 annual fee is relatively affordable for this card category thanks to the up to $100 in yearly airline incidental statement credits.
• You can smooth out your travel experience with great benefits like credits toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and comprehensive travel insurance.
• Attaining the highest rewards rate is not an easy feat, since you’ll need to hold significant funds in Bank of America accounts.
• This card does not offer a few popular premium travel perks like lounge access.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 - 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
• No foreign transaction fees.

Best for first-year value

Discover it® Miles

• Unlimited Bonus: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.

Discover Match®

Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

• 1.5X Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.

What we love: In addition to the exceptionally valuable Discover Match® , this card combines solid flat-rate rewards with consumer-friendly terms, like minimal fees and an equal value for both travel and cash back redemptions. Travelers who value simplicity will appreciate this card’s straightforward rewards and adaptability — even when you aren’t traveling. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Discover it® Miles Alternatives: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card carries a more straightforward and still easy-to-reach welcome bonus. The VentureOne card also gives you the option of transferring miles to more than a dozen airline and hotel partners, which could increase the redemption value of your rewards.

• All miles earned in your first year will be matched at the end of the year, which could make it one of the most valuable first-year offers for no annual fee.
• Miles don’t lose value when they’re redeemed for cash back, which gives it a leg up over many travel rewards programs for occasional travelers.
• You’ll miss out on pretty standard travel perks like travel insurance, and car rental damage protection.
• The rewards structure lacks flexibility; you won’t be able to transfer your miles or use them to book travel.
• Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase
• No annual fee
• Turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% - 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Best for fair credit

Credit One Bank Wander® Card

Intro offer is not available for this Credit One Bank credit card.

Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site. Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas. Earn 1x points on all other purchases.

29.74% Variable

• 10X Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• 5X Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• 1X Earn 1x points on all other purchases

What we love: The Credit One Bank Wander® Card is a solid option if you want to earn points on travel but have trouble qualifying for mainstream travel cards. Not only is this card accessible with only fair credit, but its rewards program boasts generously high rewards rates in key travel categories. Learn more: Best travel cards for people with bad or fair credit Alternatives: If you don’t mind putting down a refundable security deposit, consider a no-annual-fee secured card like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card *. It’s a unique secured card that lets you build credit while earning rewards in a category of your choice (with travel just one of many popular options) as well as grocery stores and wholesale clubs.

• It’s one of the only travel rewards cards available with a fair credit score, making it a decent option if you want to earn travel rewards as you work on your score.
• Provides 5X points in travel, dining and gas, plus 10X points on eligible hotel and rental car bookings through Credit One Bank — rare and impressive rates with only fair credit.
• Its annual fee is high compared to other cards you can get with a fair credit score , so it may not be the best fit if you prioritize building credit over earning rewards.
• Other travel cards may offer better perks, fewer redemption restrictions and more value, so it may be worth working on your score with a lower-cost card before committing to the costly annual fee.
• Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• Earn 1x points on all other purchases
• Redeem your reward points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, flights, hotels, and more
• With $0 Fraud Liability, you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
• Free Online Credit Score and Credit Report summary, terms apply
• If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
• See Rates & Fees

Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit  AmericanExpress.com/benefitsguide  for more details. Underwritten by Amex assurance company.

The information about the American Express® Green Card and Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuers.

Compare Bankrate's best travel credit cards of 2024

What are travel credit cards.

Travel credit cards allow cardholders to earn points or miles on a variety of purchases (typically travel-related), which are redeemable for travel bookings, statement credits, gift cards and more.

The best travel credit cards do more than help you foot the bill for your next flight — travel cards also offer perks to upgrade your entire travel experience. Trip insurance , annual travel credits, concierge services and lounge access are all common benefits. Airline and hotel co-branded credit cards sometimes offer specific discounts and perks for loyalty program members.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

Although a well-chosen travel card can pay huge dividends, it might not be the right move for every traveler. Before you apply, take time to weigh the benefits versus the drawbacks of travel credit cards .

Tips on choosing the best travel credit card for you

The right travel credit card for you will carry features and benefits that give you the best value. To help you narrow down your choices, here are the steps to choosing the best travel card.

How to choose a travel credit card

1. know how you prefer to travel.

Knowing whether your travel expenses lean toward airfare, hotel stays or a mix of other travel will help you decide whether you should get an airline card, hotel card or general-purpose travel card. A co-branded airline or hotel credit card may be a good fit if you mostly travel with a certain brand and want exclusive privileges to enhance your experience. A general-purpose travel card is better if you prefer to keep your travel options open.

2. Prioritize redemption value

You may have to pick between simplicity and maximum value when comparing cards and rewards programs. Many travel cards offer a standard point or mile redemption value of 1 cent when you redeem toward travel through the issuer portal, but some cards can get you a higher redemption value when you transfer rewards to airline or hotel partners. However, it's common for many travel reward programs to reduce the redemption value toward non-travel options or limit these redemption options altogether. If you prefer simplicity over maximizing rewards, you may want to consider cards that allow you to redeem points or miles at an equal 1-cent value toward general travel purchase credits, cash back or other non-travel options.

3. Match your card to your spending habits

Take a look at your typical spending and find which travel categories and non-travel categories you spend the most in to help you choose a card that offers a high rewards rate for your regular spending. Just make sure you factor in rewards spending caps.

4. Note what's worth the extra money

High rewards rates and valuable travel perks are the biggest reasons to get a travel card, but many of the best cards carry a high annual fee. You could stick with a no-annual-fee travel card (or at least one with around a $99 fee) if you're mainly focused on earning rewards, but you may have to pay up to $500 or more for luxurious perks like airport lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance and hundreds of dollars in annual travel credits .

5. Look toward your next trip abroad

If you travel overseas, check to see if the card you're considering charges a foreign transaction fee. And since some credit cards aren't as widely accepted as others, you'll also want to make sure your credit card will work when traveling overseas . For example, merchants may not accept Discover and American Express cards as widely as Visa and Mastercard. If a trip is coming up in the next three to six months, keep an eye out for the big sign-up bonuses travel cards are known for. As a rule of thumb, the higher the annual fee, the higher the sign-up bonus should be.

Co-branded travel cards vs. general travel cards

Experts typically divide travel credit cards into two categories: co-branded travel cards and general travel cards. Co-branded cards are linked to a particular airline or hotel, while general travel cards offer more flexible reward opportunities. Here’s why and when you might want one or the other.

• Co-branded cards
• General travel cards

Co-branded travel cards tend to offer higher rewards rates on eligible travel purchases in exchange for limiting your reward redemption options to just one airline or hotel program . These cards may also feature more specific perks associated with the respective hotel or airline, such as free award nights, complimentary airline elite status or priority boarding — which general-purpose travel cards don’t often carry).

However, you won’t be able to use your rewards with a wide variety of different hotels and airlines like general-purpose cards allow. Plus, despite co-branded travel cards’ typically higher rewards rates, many brand-specific rewards tend to be worth less than the potential value of general-purpose cards’ points and miles.

When to get a co-branded travel card : When you often fly or stay with a specific airline or hotel and want to maximize your benefits with that brand.

General travel cards earn rewards on various travel categories and aren’t limited to a particular airline or hotel. Such cards may lack some of the dedicated perks you’ll find on a co-branded travel card, such as in-flight discounts, but make up for it with rewards flexibility and broader perks like general travel credits, expedited security screening and wider airport lounge access. 

The top travel cards even let you transfer your points or miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs, often at a 1:1 rate. Redeeming with some airlines and hotels can even make your rewards more valuable than they would be if you redeemed with the card issuer.

When to get a general travel card : When you have no preferred airline or hotel and want the additional flexibility a general travel card offers. 

Who should get a travel credit card?

A travel credit card is almost always worth it for frequent travelers or anyone who wants to earn rewards toward their next vacation.

If you can save up airline miles, rack up points for free nights at hotels or get discounted travel through your credit card issuer, you’re on your way to significant travel savings. However, the right travel card for you will depend on your travel habits.

Frequent travelers

Naturally, the ideal candidate for a travel card is someone who travels a lot or plans to book several flights and hotel stays per year. However, in some cases, you don’t have to be a frequent traveler to reap the benefits of a travel rewards card. A number of cards offer good rewards rates on general purchases.

Travel beginners

If you’re new to travel rewards, a good place to start is with a travel card that makes it easy to earn and redeem points, without requiring you to navigate a complex rewards program or worry about tiered rewards rates or varying point redemption values. 

Brand loyalists

If you tend to book travel with the same brands frequently or already belong to an airline or hotel loyalty program, a co-branded travel card can offer terrific value.  Airline- and hotel-specific rewards cards often earn a top rate on bookings with the brand as well as exclusive perks like lounge access and automatic elite status. 

Business travelers

Some of the most valuable travel credit cards are business cards . Whether you're a freelancer on the go or the CEO of a Fortune 500, the right travel credit card can help you earn high rewards rates on everyday business purchases. 

International travelers

If you frequently travel abroad, a card with no foreign transaction fees is a great way to help you avoid extra costs on overseas purchases. Plus, if you hate waiting in line at airport security or customs, a lot of travel cards offer statement credits to reimburse you for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

Luxury travelers

Luxury travel cards often charge a pretty penny but also offer a ton of value via perks like lounge access and annual travel credits. These perks not only make travel more comfortable, but also often carry enough value to offset the card’s cost on their own.

Still unsure if a travel credit card is right for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

Here’s how a Bankrate editor chose his travel card

Here’s how a bankrate editor chose his travel card.

With all of this advice in mind, let’s see how a credit card expert made their pick. Here’s Bankrate editor Nouri Zarrugh on how he chose his travel card:

When it comes to earning rewards, I’ve always stuck with cash back cards, preferring the simplicity of knowing exactly how much my rewards are worth and the ease of redeeming for statement credits. Recently, though, I decided I wanted to travel a bit more frequently, and I figured a new travel rewards card could be a great tool to help me earn free trips. When choosing the right card for me, a few major points of consideration stood out: Cost: I didn’t feel like I traveled enough to justify a huge annual fee. Simplicity : I wanted to stick with a single, streamlined travel card and not worry about juggling multiple rewards programs or rewards rates. Perks : While I didn’t need anything too fancy, I thought it might be nice to have a perk like TSA Precheck included, since I hate waiting in long airport security lines. To my surprise, the card that stood out most was the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Though it carried an intimidating annual fee of $395 ( See Rates & Fees ), I found this cost was more than worth it once I dug into the details. In fact, its benefits were so valuable, I barely needed to worry about offsetting the cost.  Two of its annual perks — a $300 Capital One travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles every year on my account anniversary — are valuable enough to offset the fee on their own. This means as long as I take one flight a year, I can basically break even on the card. Any rewards or perks I get beyond that feel like pure upside. It’s a huge bonus, then, that the card also includes practical benefits like Priority Pass lounge access and a credit of up to $100 toward the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. While I’ve never frequented airport lounges, I see these privileges as essentially free considering the value of the annual travel credit and bonus miles. So, I figure, why not take advantage?  For me, the Venture X strikes the perfect balance: A flat rewards rate that makes it easy to earn miles on everything I buy; flexible redemption through Capital One or via transfer to airlines and hotels, and practical perks I know I’ll use when I travel. I never imagined I’d have a $395 travel card in my wallet, but for me, it’s at worst a coupon for a flight every year, which can nudge me to take that next trip. — Nouri Zarrugh, Editor, Bankrate

Travel benefits may differ from card to card, but some of the most popular travel cards available often feature a few key perks. 

Travel insurance

Travel cards may offer various travel insurances , such as trip delay protection, trip cancellation insurance, lost baggage insurance or car rental insurance. These benefits aren’t worth anything until you need them, but you’ll be glad you have them when your flight is canceled or your luggage gets lost.

Travel credits

Credits toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry are a popular and common benefit on many travel cards. You can typically use this credit once every four years, which roughly corresponds to how long a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership lasts. Some cards may also provide an annual credit toward Clear Plus — another expedited security membership. Higher-end travel cards often offer annual statement credits toward travel purchases, and many of these credits nearly offset these cards’ annual fees. 

In-flight perks

Co-branded airline cards typically offer some airport and in-flight benefits on top of their reward-earning capabilities. These can include discounts on in-flight purchases (usually 25 percent back on refreshments and WiFi), free checked bags, flight seating upgrades or priority boarding. 

Free hotel award nights

Co-branded hotel cards may include free hotel award nights annually as part of their benefits. Some cards also add an extra complimentary awards night to your stay if you’ve booked a certain number of consecutive nights. These nights are typically capped at a certain value (sometimes based on the card or your elite status), and may be valuable enough to make up for some cards’ annual fees.

Airport lounge access

One of the most popular (and valuable) travel benefits featured on high-end and luxury travel cards is complimentary access to airport lounges. The lounges you gain access to depend on the card, though co-branded cards will often grant access to the lounge corresponding to the card’s airline. The Amex Platinum card currently offers the best airport lounge access .

If you want to add a credit card to your portfolio for your travel needs, knowing what cards are popular and why people like them can help steer your decision. We regularly stay abreast of these conversations online and noticed two travel cards come up regularly: the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card from American Express .

These cards shine because they offer some of the best rates on travel purchases and the most comprehensive set of benefits and perks . Despite their annual fees, what you get in return can far outweigh your costs. And the conversation around these two cards isn’t new: Is the effort of maximizing their perks worth it?

What people say about travel credit cards perks

The Sapphire Reserve is often referred to as the gold standard in travel benefits and protections, and the value of its trip insurance is a big part of that. A member of the Rick Steves Forum remarks on the value of the insurance: “It has pretty extensive coverage wherever I travel … my entire trip is covered as long as I charged any portion of the trip to my card.” This feature is unique to the Sapphire Reserve and sets it apart from other premium cards, which require you to charge your entire trip purchase to the card to have active coverage.

But using trip insurance isn’t always a simple process. As a user in the r/CreditCards forum on Reddit cautions: “Credit card travel insurance in general is very specific on what it covers, and people tend to overestimate just how useful the coverage actually is,” they write. “These are named peril policies, so unless you see your exact situation as a covered hazard the policies won't pay out.”

The Platinum Card from American Express gets a lot of buzz for reasons similar to the Sapphire Reserve. The card gives so many benefits, credits and additional perks that it’s often called a coupon book for luxury travel. But for many people, the value comes down to whether they’re willing to do the work to maximize its features. Another r/CreditCards member says they use the card’s Hilton and Marriott status boosters, rental car company loyalty program automatic status features, Centurion lounge access, hotel and airline incidental credits, membership credits and more. Using all these features helps them offset the annual fee.

While some people love maximizing the card’s features to extract  as much value as possible, others, like this Redditor, think it’s too much work:

“The only benefit the Platinum card really adds is Centurion but only to the [cardholder] … I believe the Platinum is worth [it] at least the first year for the [sign-up] bonus but then it doesn't get much use after that. Trust me the credits are really annoying to use.” — r/CreditCards user

These two premium cards stand out from the rest because they offer the most comprehensive features available to suit your travel needs and protect you from any issues that arise. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is an exceptional option to protect you from travel issues, but make sure you know the fine print. While the Amex Platinum may not be as ideal for travel protections, the credits offered more than offset its annual fee if you can put in the effort to fully maximize them.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cardholder, your travel card should always work in your favor by offering the features and benefits you’ll actually use and that make your travels more enjoyable. But whether you’re willing to put in the effort to maximize a card’s value is something you’ll need to decide for yourself.

*The quotes and citations included on this page have been verified by our editorial team and are accurate as of the posting date. Be sure to check the issuer's website/terms and conditions for all up to date content. Outlinked content may contain views and opinions that do not reflect the views and opinions of Bankrate.

Credit card points and miles are two of the key types of credit card rewards , along with cash back. You’ll earn points and miles by making purchases with your credit card, but you can typically redeem these rewards for travel, gift cards and more — not just statement credits.

Points and miles tend to be more flexible than cash back, but since their value depends on how you redeem them — and, in the case of travel redemptions, where you’re going, when you book, your fare class and more — it may take a bit more effort to make the most of them.

What are your points and miles worth?

Since many airlines and hotels use dynamic pricing models that continually optimize airfare and room prices, it can be hard to know exactly how much your rewards are worth without doing a little math.

Luckily, you don’t need to be a travel hacker to get a sense of this idea. Before you redeem, you can check your reward redemption value by dividing the cost of a plane or hotel booking in cash by its cost in points or miles. This calculation will result in the cash value of your points or miles.

You can also compare this value to Bankrate’s latest points and miles valuations to determine if you’re getting a good deal on your redemptions. Bankrate collected data on hundreds of bookings across dozens of airline, hotel and credit card rewards programs and estimated how much each program’s rewards are worth on average .

• Airline rewards values
• Hotel rewards values
• Credit card program rewards values

The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated reward redemption value for a variety of popular airline loyalty programs. You’ll notice how widely the value varies between airlines, with some offering close to 3 cents per point in average redemption value and others struggling to meet a 1-cent-per-point value.

Keep in mind, however, that these values are averages based on a variety of fare classes, destinations, booking periods and more. For example, while Bankrate estimates Delta SkyMiles carry an average redemption value of around 1.2 cents per mile, they could be worth more or less depending on the details of your booking. 

*Based on weighted average of median point/mile values across economy and first/business class fares.

Like airline miles, hotel points fluctuate in value. The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated point values for some of the most popular hotel brands. 

As you can see, hotel points tend to be worth less than airline and credit card rewards on average, often carrying less than 1 cent per point in redemption value. That said, hotel loyalty programs sometimes offer more favorable exchange rates when you transfer rewards from a credit card rewards program. For example, you may be able to turn 1,000 credit card points into 2,000 hotel points (a 2:1 transfer ratio). 

*Based on median point values across budget, mid-tier and luxury hotel bookings.

Unlike hotel and airline rewards programs, credit card reward programs typically earn points or miles that offer a consistent redemption value when you use them with the issuer. Though the redemption value of your rewards may vary based on how you redeem, each redemption method should offer a consistent baseline value. 

Some credit card rewards programs may also allow you to transfer your points or miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs, which could boost their value considerably. For each major credit card rewards program, we estimate a baseline redemption value (assuming you book for travel with the issuer) and a Bankrate’s Value, which averages the program’s best-value transfer partners.

*Based on an average of the issuer’s five highest-value transfer partners (if available).

When to use rewards vs. cash

To demonstrate when it’s best to use your reward miles versus paying in cash, we set up this example:

We estimate American Airlines AAdvantage miles are worth 1.0 cents. If you book a seat in the main cabin on a one-way flight from Boston to Miami, and it costs either $139 or 21,500 miles, your miles are only worth $0.006 ($139 / 21,500 miles = $0.006). Since your miles for this flight are worth less than 1.0 cents, you may want to save your miles and pay cash for this flight.

But if you book a first-class seat on the same flight for $433 or 31,500 miles, your miles are now worth $0.013 ($433 / 31,500 = $0.013). Since 1.3 cents is higher than our latest valuation, you’re coming out ahead if you use your miles to pay for this flight.

Bankrate experts share their advice on using travel credit cards

It’s important to know how to maximize your rewards and perks. Otherwise, a travel card could end up being a money pit. Here are a few pointers from our experts for making the most of your travel card: 

Combine cards to maximize rewards

Knowing how much you spend in different categories and which merchants are eligible for rewards will help you earn more and build an optimized stack of rewards cards. A flat-rate card is often a great starting point to earn the same rate on every purchase you make. As you build out a rewards strategy, you can incorporate a card with bonus categories to earn even more in your highest spending areas.

Expert Insight:

“For a long time, I’ve used a combination of Chase credit cards known as the Chase trifecta for all my family’s spending…. [I] don’t typically use my Sapphire Reserve for everyday spending and bills. Since it only offers 1X points on non-bonus category spending, I use my Freedom Unlimited to make sure I earn a minimum of 1.5 percent cash back on everything I buy.” “I use each card strategically to earn as much in rewards as possible, then I pool them in my Sapphire Reserve account to redeem them for airfare, excursions, hotels and more.” — Holly D. Johnson — Award-winning personal finance writer and Bankrate contributor: Why I love the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Maximize your rewards value with transfer partners and issuer travel

Save your rewards for the most valuable redemption options. Travel points and miles often lose value toward non-travel options like cash back, so you’ll want to redeem your rewards for travel through the issuer portal for at least 1 cent per point or mile. However, transferring your rewards to the right airline or hotel partner program is usually worth the extra effort since it could net you even more value.

Expert Insight

“When I redeem my points through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, the most I can get is 1.25 cents apiece, which is pretty good. However, if I transfer them to a partner airline’s loyalty program, I will often get much more. For example, I can transfer my points to United Airlines MileagePlus and use them to pay for flights. When I do, I generally get a value of 2 or more cents per point — in line with Bankrate estimates that Chase Ultimate Rewards points are worth around 2 cents apiece on average when used with the right transfer partner.” — Margaret Wack — Personal finance expert and Bankrate contributor: Why I love the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Make the most of your travel perks

Travel benefits are one of the main reasons to get a travel card, and are often key to making up a card’s annual fee. Be sure to read the fine print to make sure you can take full advantage of these offers . For example, one card’s travel credit may apply to any travel purchase, including airfare, while another card’s may only cover costs like baggage fees or in-flight purchases. 

“This is the year to take inventory of your credit cards and make sure they’re serving you well. If you’re paying an annual fee, look for a card with recurring benefits. Whether it’s annual award nights, waived luggage fees or elite status benefits, these perks can offset your annual fee and make your travels more pleasant … Despite putting minimal spending on my Hilton Honors Amex Aspire card, I keep renewing it every year. That’s because the card provides automatic Hilton Diamond elite status, which can easily offset the $550 annual fee. Recurring card benefits like [these] can save you a lot on travel and are worth considering when shopping for a new credit card.” — Ariana Arghandewal — Travel rewards expert and Bankrate contributor: Five benefits you need from a travel credit card

Plan for the sign-up bonus

The best travel cards come with generous welcome offers, but these bonuses may require a high spend in a short timeframe. That’s why it’s important to consider whether the spending requirement fits with your typical spending habits or whether you need to plan purchases to meet the requirement. Just be sure not to overextend yourself or take on debt you can’t pay back just to earn a bonus — interest and fees can easily eat through any value you’d get.

“Keep in mind that credit card sign-up offers change often. So if you’re interested in a particular card but not blown away by its current offer (there are some for 100,000 points or more that aren’t always worth the trouble), it could be worth your while to wait for a better one.” — Ariana Arghandewal — Travel rewards expert and Bankrate contributor: 6 ways to get bigger credit card bonuses

Look out for limited-time offers, partner perks and other benefits

Keeping an eye out for limited-time offers like extraordinarily high sign-up bonuses, perks with partner services (like rideshares or delivery services) and other reward-earning opportunities is a great way to squeeze the most value from your travel card. Issuers sometimes provide shopping and travel portals and card-linked reward programs for select purchases (like for pre-paid dining or participating merchant spending), which can help you bank extra rewards.

“Keep an eye on your email inbox and rewards portal for any limited-time promotions your issuer may be offering. Many American Express cards feature Amex Offers, which lets you access perks like statement credits for spending a certain amount on specific hotels and other retailers.  Other cards, like the Capital One Venture X, also have occasional promotional offers, such as a credit for 5 percent back on VRBO rentals.” — Lori Zaino — Travel expert and Bankrate contributor: How to maximize credit cards for cheaper accommodations this holiday season

Track your spending and rewards each account statement

Track your favorite stores’ and services’ merchant category codes (MCCs) to fine-tune your spending habits for maximum rewards. If you notice your expenses changing, this practice may also help you notice whether you need to change which rewards cards you carry.

“The first step to optimizing your spending is to take the time to collect the MCCs of stores you frequently shop at. During the process, you might find that some stores in the same chain may have different MCCs, depending on their primary inventory. Even different counters or sections in the same department store may carry different MCCs. You can use this to your advantage if you know one location near you will provide a better cash back rate than the other. These “loopholes” can provide great opportunities to reap cash back on purchases that typically wouldn’t earn rewards.” — Garrett Yarbrough — Writer and credit cards expert at Bankrate: Merchant category codes: How to earn more cash back

Our data: What credit score do you need for the best travel cards?

It’s no secret that your credit score heavily influences which cards you’re likely to get approval for. But how good does your credit need to be to get the best credit cards for travel? We analyzed our data of Bankrate readers who applied for credit cards on our pages in 2023 and compared the approval rates of readers’ different credit tiers.

We found that, on average, 61.9 percent of users with excellent credit were approved for travel cards on our site. Then, an average of 39.5 percent and 19.5 percent of users with good and fair credit, respectively, got approval for travel credit cards they applied to.

If you have fair or bad credit, you still have options for travel credit cards. For example, the Credit One Bank Wander Card caters to people with fair credit — 57 percent of people with fair credit who applied on our site in 2023 were approved for this card , according to our data.

Obviously, the better your credit, the more likely you are to get the card you apply for , but other factors can affect your application. Issuers may also consider your income, recent credit applications, homeownership status and monthly rental or mortgage payment. Keep these other factors in mind with your credit score when you apply for credit cards.

Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email , find us on Facebook , or Tweet us @Bankrate .

When evaluating the best travel cards, we consider a mix of factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether cards offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards in popular categories to scoring a large sign-up bonus or high-value perks. Whenever possible, we also feature cards that are available at various credit levels and price points. 

We analyzed over 150 of the most popular cards and scored each based on its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, welcome bonus value, APR, fees, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup of the best travel cards.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key factors in our rewards card scoring methodology — our primary scoring category for travel cards — and details we considered when putting together our list of the best travel cards.  

• Flexibility 15%
• Customer experience 5%

Great rewards value

The primary criteria for a rewards-earning card’s rating is its rewards value. This includes the card’s average rewards rate, estimated annual rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value and reward redemption value.

To estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings, we first calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories and how closely its categories align with the average person’s spending habits. In other words, we assess whether the card earns rewards at a high rate in the most popular spending categories. 

We use consumer spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to get a reliable third-party measure of people’s spending habits. The most recent BLS data estimates average total spending in 2022 was $72,967 per consumer. We then narrow our focus to which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards, subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases and education. This gives us a total “chargeable” annual spend of around $25,500.  

This includes the following spending by category:

• Groceries: $5,700
• Dining out: $3,600
• Entertainment: $2,400
• Gas: $3,100
• Apparel and services: $1,900

Using this data, we assign a weighting to each of a card’s bonus categories. For example, a card’s grocery rewards rate receives a 22 percent weighting based on how much of the average person’s budget is spent on groceries.

We also estimate the redemption value of points or miles from various issuer, airline and hotel rewards programs.

This weighting and rewards valuation allows us to estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings — how many points or miles you’d earn with a given card if your spending was about average and you used the card for all of your purchases — as well as what those points are worth. We also use point valuations to determine a card’s sign-up bonus value

With these calculations complete, we assign each card a score based on how its average rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value, rewards rate and redemption value stack up against other rewards cards.

The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.

Reasonable rates and fees

We also score cards based on how much it costs to keep them in your wallet or carry a balance. 

To start, each card is scored based on whether it offers an intro APR and how its ongoing APR compares to the rates available on other rewards cards. However, the latter rating only has a slight influence on the card’s score and whether the card is included in our list, since rewards card users generally try to avoid carrying a balance.

More important to both a card’s score and its inclusion in our list is how its annual fee influences its overall value. We consider a card’s annual fee in two ways — how it ranks relative to the fees you’ll find on other cards in the category and how it impacts a card’s overall rewards value. 

Cards with an annual fee will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since annual fees inherently cut into your rewards value. However, if a card offers terrific value via its ongoing rewards and perks, it can earn a high score and a spot in our list even if it carries a high annual fee. After all, the highest rewards rates and most valuable perks are often found on cards with annual fees. 

With this in mind, we rate a card based primarily on how its ongoing rewards value and ongoing perk value (such as annual credits or bonuses) stack up against those of other cards in the category when you subtract annual fees.

That said, we strive to include as many no-annual-fee options in our list as possible since many people would rather not worry about offsetting fees, even if a card carries impressive rewards and perks.

Redemption flexibility

Rewards cards may make it easy to earn a lot of points, miles or cash back, but how easy is it to use those rewards? After all, if it takes a ton of effort to redeem rewards or you can only redeem rewards in a couple of ways, a card may be more trouble than it’s worth. 

As such, we rate each card’s flexibility based on the restrictions it imposes on earning and redeeming rewards. We factor this rating into a card’s overall score and consider it when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list. 

Flexibility factors include whether a card only allows you to earn a high rewards rate on only a small amount of spending or requires you to meet a certain earning threshold before you can redeem rewards. We also examine whether your points are worth less when you opt for some redemption options over others and whether a card gives you the flexibility to transfer rewards to travel partners.

Valuable perks

We also score each card’s set of features – its perks and benefits — against five tiers of features to provide a rating. 

We break down these tiers as follows:

• Tier 1 includes fewer features than even standard credit cards (for example, an ultra-streamlined card that offers basic utility and next to nothing in the way of ancillary benefits). 
• Tier 2 includes the benefits you’d expect on standard Visa or Mastercard credit cards, such as free access to your credit score, car rental insurance and $0 liability for fraudulent charges. 
• Tier 3 includes “prime card” or better-than-average card features like cellphone insurance, lost luggage insurance, concierge services and purchase protection. 
• Tier 4 includes luxury features such as airport lounge access, elite status with an airline or hotel and credits for expedited security screening membership programs. 
• Tier 5 includes the sort of exemplary benefits you’ll find on top-tier luxury cards, such as high-value travel credits, cardholder memberships and other unique and valuable perks.

In evaluating the best cards, we tend to favor cards that offer at least Tier 3 benefits, unless they include other unique features that could make up for less-impressive perks.

And since this list focuses on travel cards, we tend to favor cards that carry travel-centric features like travel insurance, airport lounge access and credits for expedited security screening, instead of more general perks like food delivery credits or shopping discounts.

More information on travel credit cards

Frequently asked questions about travel credit cards, are travel credit cards worth it.

Travel cards can be well worth it since they often have exclusive travel perks like credits for airfare, hotel stays, expedited airport security services and more, as well as complimentary airport lounge access and airline or hotel privileges. However, many of the best travel credit cards come with annual fees. It’s important to at least offset the cost of these cards by taking advantage of the various travel perks and features included on the card. 

What credit score do you need for a travel credit card?

It’s possible to get a travel credit card with bad or fair credit, but most travel rewards cards are geared toward people with good or excellent credit (a FICO score of at least 670, or a VantageScore of at least 661).

Do travel miles or points expire?

Even though many major credit cards earn rewards that don’t expire, you may lose your points and miles if your account closes or isn’t in good standing. However, some co-branded cards’ rewards may expire if you don’t earn or redeem rewards within a certain timeframe (typically 12 to 36 months after the rewards are earned).

Check out our guide to credit card rewards expiration for a thorough breakdown of several popular issuers’ policies.

Are points or miles better on a credit card?

Whether points or miles offer better value will depend on the specific rewards program and how you redeem rewards. One airline loyalty program may earn miles that offer less than 1 cent each in average redemption value while another program’s points may offer close to 3 cents each on average. Similarly, a hotel card’s points may be worth less than half of a credit card issuer’s rewards points. Some programs offer points with only average baseline redemption value but high value when transferred to a partner airline or hotel. 

Ask the experts: Is it a good idea to have multiple travel credit cards?

Thomas Nitzsche

Stephanie Zito

Erica Sandberg

Financial Educator, Debt and Credit

Whether you should have multiple travel credit cards depends on several factors, including your brand affinity, frequency of travel and ability to pay off your cards in full each month. As a credit counselor, I see many people carrying credit card debt at high interest rates while continuing to make charges to the account for the sake of earning rewards. They lose far more than they earn each month. Having more than one travel credit card could make sense for you if you’re able to maximize your earnings by strategizing spending across each card. Just take into account annual fees and actual interest paid.

Contributor, Personal Finance

If you’re up for managing multiple cards and their benefits, then there are definitely big reward payouts to be had. But if the thought of multiple cards is overwhelming, it’s also a good strategy to have one or two more flexible cards and focus on maximizing your earnings and redemptions until it becomes second nature.

Contributor, Credit Cards

Definitely! I currently have two travel credit cards. In addition to the Chase card that I use for my United Airlines purchases, I have the Capital One Venture card for all other airlines. I earn a solid amount of miles on everything I buy with it, so it's an easy go-to for non-travel related expenses.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

Global entry: Trusted traveler enrollment program . U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Accessed on June 12, 2024.

Discover International acceptance . Discover. Accessed on June 5, 2024.

“ Consumer Expenditures 2022 ,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on June 12, 2024.

* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.