December travel is frequently associated with expensive plane tickets and crowded tourist attractions. The reality is that things don’t have to be that way. December is one of the most affordable months to travel abroad with a little planning and adaptability.
The choices are numerous and frequently disregarded ranging from an off-season tropical getaway in Southeast Asia to snow-covered medieval towns that make ideal winter destinations in Europe.
Travelers looking for the best cheap vacations in December will find that the early December to February timeframe offers amazing deals at reasonably priced locations all over the world.
Our guide shows you where to go at a low cost when most tourists are staying at home, whether you’re planning a sunny winter vacation or a cultural winter escape.
In order to produce a strategic guide for the most budget-friendly destination to visit in December, we have examined real-time traveler reviews, tourism trends, and pricing data in this extensive 2025 edition.
This guide is designed to help you get more for less, whether you’re a digital nomad, a single person, or a couple organizing a pre-holiday winter escape.
Why Take a Budget-Friendly Trip in December?
- Before the holidays: Travel and lodging are much less expensive before December 20th.
- Reduced crowd pressure: Best places such as Prague, Bali, and Lisbon see a decline in visitors.
- Festive value: Cultural events, food markets, and celebrations are free or reasonably priced in many countries to visit.
- Weather advantage: Select from tropical beach weather or European winter destination magic without paying peak season rates.
17 Best places to travel in December on a budget
The following are the 17 cheapest countries to visit in December.
1. Southeast Asia: Where You Get the Most Out of Your Money
The following are the cheapest places to visit in December in Asia.
Vietname
Vietnam offers the most affordable prices in Asia. It’s perfect for all kinds of travelers because of its rich history, street food scenes, and diverse landscapes that include beach towns and rice terraces.
- Budget per day: $25–30
- North Highlights: The northern region is home to the famous Ha Long Bay, terraced rice fields, and mountainous scenery. Highlights include the Hanoi Old Quarter (free sightseeing), the two-day Ha Long Bay cruise (from Cat Ba Island for $55), and the $12 sleeper train trek to Sapa.
- South Highlights: The Mekong Delta, energetic cities like Ho Chi Minh City, and stunning beaches were all found in the south. Highlights include the Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels tour, and the District 4 food walk ($7 for 15 tastings).
- The best time is December to March — dry and cool in the north, warm in the south. Ideal for beach lovers and cultural attractions.
Cost Table
Categoria | Orçamento | Mid-Range |
Hostel | $4–$8 | $12–$15 |
Refeições | $5 | $10 |
Local Transport | $3 (bus) | $15 (Grab) |
Cambodia
Visit Cambodia, with a population of 17 million. Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia with a tropical climate. Its capital is Phnom Penh, and it shares borders with Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Cambodia has a rich history and a relaxed charm. It is a budget-friendly travel gem with Angkor Wat and pristine beaches.
- Orçamento: $20–25 per day
- Reap Siem Advice: Spend $62 on a 3-day pass to Angkor Wat, which includes admission the day before sunset.
- Local tips: It includes free bikes from hostels like Someplace Else, $2 dinners, and $1 beers on Pub Street.
- The best time to visit is from November to February — the dry season. Great for visiting temples and relaxing by the beach.
Malaysia
With thirteen states and three federal territories, Malaysia is a nation in Southeast Asia. With Putrajaya serving as its executive branch and Kuala Lumpur as its national capital, it is the 42nd most populous country in the world. A blend of flavors, cultures, and island paradises, perfect for exploring without the high cost of Thailand.
- Langkawi: Low-cost seafood, laid-back beach life, and no sales tax.
- Penang: street murals, hawker stalls, and George Town, which is UNESCO-listed.
- Budget on average: $30 to $50 per day.
- West Coast (Langkawi & Penang) shines from December to April, perfect for a tropical resort break. Avoid the East Coast due to monsoons.
Bali
West of Java and Lombok is the Indonesian province of Bali. With Denpasar as its capital and tourism-related businesses making up 80% of its economy, it is a well-liked tourist destination. Even though December is Bali’s rainy season, there are still plenty of dry hours for exploring thanks to brief tropical showers.
- Where to Stay: Canggu (for surfers and nomads), Ubud (for yoga and the jungle).
- Daily budget: $20 to $30 per day (homestays plus warungs)
- Conselhos locais: Spend $6 on massages and hikes on rice terraces rather than at beach clubs. December is an ideal time for rice terrace hikes.
- The best time to travel is from April to October. December is rainy, but still decent for indoor activities, rice terrace hikes, and budget travelers.
2. Eastern Europe: Castles, Snow, and Seasonal Charm
The following is the list of the cheapest countries to travel in Europe.
Albania
Albania is renowned for its history, coastline, and distinctive customs, such as besa. This nation has a long history that was shaped by Ottoman, Byzantine, and Roman influences.
Why visit now? The last cheap country to visit in Europe offers incredible Best Winter Spots in Albania with unbridled winter beauty, reduced costs, and fewer tourists.
- Theth Village: $8 boat rides across Komani Lake, €4 dinners, and snow hikes
- Shkoder: Offers comfortable hostels starting at $11 and the best day trips from Shkoder
- Cultura local: Layered cuisine and friendly service (burek for $1!).
- The best time to travel is from April to June & September to October (for coastlines). December is Ideal for winter travel, beauty, fewer tourists, and snow hikes in Theth.
Localização | Dec Avg | Jan Avg |
Shkoder | $11 | $18 |
Theth | $15 | $22 (includes breakfast) |
Bulgária
Bulgaria is a country in the eastern Balkans of Southeast Europe. At 110,994 square kilometers, it is the tenth largest in the EU. For those who cannot afford the Alps, Bansko is the preferred winter destination.
- Ski Pass: €35 per day for a cheap winter ski pass (compared to €72 per day in France)
- Alojamento: Rooms starting at €18 per night
- Bonus: Independent stores offer €8/day ski rentals and €1.20 beers.
- The Best time for budget travel is from December to March for skiing in Bansko.
República Checa
The capital and largest city of Bohemia and the Czech Republic is Prague. Its metropolitan area is home to 2.3 million people, and its population is 1.4 million.
- Budget per day: $35 to $45
- Destaques: Old Town Square Christmas Market, Charles Bridge sunrise, pubs with goulash and beer for under $5.
- The best time for cheap travel is from May to June & September for the weather. December is magical for the Christmas light tram and the snowy Old Town charm.
Hungary
Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria encircle Hungary, a landlocked nation in Central Europe. Hungary is home to 9.6 million people and is primarily a lowland plain. The official language of the country is Hungarian. The capital and the hub of the economy and culture is Budapest.
- Top Winter Feature: Thermal baths beneath the stars are ideal for relaxation and exploring.
- Cheap Food: $3 soups, langos, and chimney cake
- Orçamento: $35 per day.
- March to May, September to November, is the perfect time to explore. December is perfect for thermal baths and a festive winter atmosphere.
Portugal (Porto & Lisbon)
Portugal is a nation on the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe. In addition to sharing the North Atlantic Ocean and the Azores and Madeira autonomous regions, it has the longest continuous border with Spain.
- Expect: Anticipate mild temperatures, inexpensive hotel rates, and Christmas lights.
- Advice: Take a scenic ride on a public tram for $1.60. It is an affordable destination.
- March to June & September to October is the best place in Europe. December is ideal Mild weather, off-season rates, and gorgeous Christmas and New Year.
Croatia and Montenegro
Members of the Council of Europe, Croatia, and Montenegro have a common history, geography, and intellectual development. With Croatia’s backing, Montenegro has been a candidate for the EU since 2012. military partners via NATO.
- Destaques: Winter weather brings dramatic winter coastlines and deserted fortress towns like Kotor.
- Alojamento: Accommodations range from $15 to $25, and filling Balkan meals cost $6. South and North America: Cheap, Dynamic, and Diverse.
- May to September is best for beach weather.
México
The northernmost nation in Latin America is Mexico. With Mexico City as its capital, it is the thirteenth largest in the world and has the greatest concentration of native Spanish speakers. It is well-known for its beaches, food, distinctive customs, ancient ruins, and lively culture.
- Top Cities: Oaxaca (festivals), Cancún (resort), and Mexico City (culture)
- Cost: $25–$35 per day.
- The dry season, which runs from November to April, is usually the ideal time to travel to Mexico.
Hotel Calendar:
Best times to visit | Price/Night |
Dec 1-15 | $28 |
Dec 16-23 | $45 |
Dec 24- Jan 1 | $110 |
Hidden Beaches
- Isla Holbox: bioluminescent kayak tours and hammocks for $12.
- Mahahual: $5 to rent a snorkel.
Colômbia
Colombia is referred to as the “land of rhythm.” It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, lush highlands, and tropical resorts, as well as its energetic and lively people.
- Why Go: It is the perfect time for coffee region tours, vibrant colonial cities, and the joy of the coast.
- Maximum Budget Cities: Medellín (urban cool), Cartagena (Caribbean breeze).
- The December to March dry season and the July to August dry season are typically the perfect times to travel to Colombia, especially if you want to explore the Andes and other inland areas.
Bolivia
The government of Bolivia, a landlocked nation in central South America that shares borders with Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, and Peru, is headquartered in La Paz and Sucre.
- December Speciality: Rainfall’s mirror effect on Uyuni Salt Flats. It is ideal for exploration.
- May to October is the ideal time of year to visit Bolivia, particularly for outdoor activities and highland exploration.
Ecuador
Ecuador is a country in northwest South America that shares borders with Peru, Colombia, and the Pacific Ocean. Its capital is Quito, and its largest city is Guayaquil.
- Ideal para: History buffs and nature lovers
- Cities: Baños, Cuenca, and Quito
- Bonus: If you are budget travelers, you can visit the Galápagos Islands on a backpacker’s budget.
- Ecuador’s ideal time to visit depends on desired destinations and activities. Dry season (June-September) offers ideal exploration of the Highlands and the Avenue of Volcanoes, while beaches are best from December-May.
Porto Rico
Puerto Rico is an American archipelago in the Caribbean that is self-governing. Spanish and English are the primary languages of its 78 municipalities and 3.2 million inhabitants.
- Why Go: Exciting culture, tropical weather, and no passport required for US visitors
- Essential: Cost-effective Activities in San Juan, Puerto Rico: free beach days, local food crawls, and hikes in El Yunque.
- The perfect time to visit is from December to mid-April, as it experiences pleasant weather with warm temperatures and lower humidity.
4. Africa: Safaris, Souks, and Sunshine
Marrocos
With a population of 37 million, Morocco is a predominantly Islamic nation in North Africa that blends Arab, Berber, African, and European influences. It borders Algeria and the Western Sahara.
- Budget per day: $20 to $30
- Top Destinations: Fes tanneries, Sahara camp, and Marrakech medina. It is ideal to travel in December in Africa for the Sahara camp at $75.
- Tour Package: 3D2N desert excursion ($75–$90) + camel + meals + tents.
- The best season to visit is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Because the summer months (June to August) can be hot, especially in the inland areas, while winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in the mountains.
Winter Guide:
Cidade | Temperatura Diurna | Temperatura Noturna |
Marraquexe | 18°C | 6°C |
Saara | 22°C | -2°C |
Quênia e Egito
O Egito e o Quênia mantêm relações comerciais bilaterais. Durante a era colonial, surgiu pela primeira vez. A primeira emissora em língua bantu no continente, um canal de rádio em Kiswahili, foi transmitida pelo governo egípcio em apoio ao movimento Mau Mau queniano contra as autoridades britânicas.
- Egito: Fazer snorkeling no Mar Vermelho, cruzeiros no Nilo e visitas às Pirâmides são os lugares mais baratos para viajar.
- Quénia: Safáris no Parque Nacional de Nairobi, passeios pelas aldeias Maasai.
- Dicas para economizar custos: Use fóruns de viagens locais ou excursões em grupo para economizar dinheiro.
- Quênia e Egito são melhores visitados entre o final de junho e outubro para observação da vida selvagem e temporadas de entressafra, outubro-novembro e março-abril para explorar sítios históricos.
Dicas de viagem profissionais para economizar muito em dezembro
- Faça suas reservas com antecedência: Especialmente voos para destinos populares (defina alertas de preço). Esta é a estratégia ideal para obter preços mais acessíveis em períodos com clima perfeito para passeios turísticos antes da alta temporada.
- Fique Local: Escolha pensões em vez de hotéis. Muitas vezes é quente o suficiente e perfeito para viajantes com orçamento limitado que procuram vivenciar a cultura autêntica.
- Alimente-se de Forma Inteligente: Evite menus ocidentais e coma onde os locais comem. É ideal para explorar a culinária autêntica.
- Passes de transporte público: Use passes de transporte público para economizar dinheiro todos os dias e para rotas panorâmicas. Frequentemente é mais barato do que as opções de viagem de verão.
- Atividades Gratuitas: Pesquise no Google por “free walking tours/free attractions + [nome da cidade]”. É uma maneira perfeita de ver os principais pontos turísticos
- Inseguranças de viagem: Para áreas com inverno ou neve, o seguro de viagem é crucial (pergunte sobre a cobertura de cancelamento). Esta dica é perfeita também para viagens econômicas.
Conclusão
Conforto e qualidade não são sacrificados ao viajar em dezembro de 2025, uma das melhores épocas para exploração. Este mês de dezembro oferece condições perfeitas para viagens econômicas a lugares acessíveis na Europa, Ásia e outros lugares, incluindo opções incríveis para visitar em dezembro na África.
Quer prefira os mercados asiáticos de comida de rua, os castelos europeus com vistas panorâmicas ou o sol das Caraíbas em locais de viagem baratos, existe um mundo de oportunidades que se adapta ao seu orçamento.
Nosso guia demonstra que dezembro é um destino para viajantes de inverno que buscam clima quente sem os preços da alta temporada. Oferece de tudo, desde opções de escapadinha em dezembro com beleza natural até as possibilidades de escapadinha de inverno prolongada durante janeiro e fevereiro. Esses locais cuidadosamente escolhidos são todos ideais para viajantes com orçamento limitado.
Com as dicas acima e nossos destinos escolhidos a dedo, você está equipado para planejar de forma mais inteligente, viajar mais a fundo e desfrutar de uma atmosfera festiva sem gastar demais!
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