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December is peak travel season out of Singapore, with school holidays and year-end leave. Book flights and hotels several months ahead.
1. Germany and Austria
Christmas markets in Munich, Nuremberg, Vienna and Salzburg from late November until Christmas.
Key sights
- Christmas markets: Nuremberg, Munich and Vienna, from late November to Christmas.
- Salzburg: Baroque old town and festive concerts.
- Neuschwanstein: Fairy-tale castle in the Bavarian Alps.
Tip: Many markets close on or just before 24 December.
2. Hokkaido, Japan
Ski season opens and the cities are lit up for winter.
Key sights
- Niseko: Ski season opens with deep powder.
- Sapporo White Illumination: Winter light displays along Odori Park.
- Asahiyama Zoo: The winter penguin walk.
3. Taiwan
Cool and dry in the north-west, with winter hot springs in Beitou.
Key sights
- Taipei 101 fireworks: New Year's Eve fireworks from the tower.
- Wulai: Hot springs and a waterfall in an Atayal village near Taipei.
- Beitou: Hot-spring baths and Thermal Valley.
→ See the suggested day-by-day itinerary
4. Melbourne and Tasmania, Australia
Early summer, long evenings and fruit season.
Key sights
- Wineglass Bay, Tasmania: White-sand bay seen from a lookout in Freycinet.
- Great Ocean Road: Twelve Apostles and koalas in the trees at Kennett River.
- Boxing Day Test: Cricket at the MCG on 26 December.
5. Phuket and Krabi, Thailand
The dry season on the Andaman coast begins; calm sea for island trips.
Key sights
- Similan Islands: Clear-water diving and snorkelling, open about mid-October to mid-May.
- Phang Nga Bay: Limestone islands and James Bond Island.
- Old Phuket Town: Sino-Portuguese shophouses and cafés.
Weather to plan around
Year-end flights from Singapore are expensive; leave on a weekday and avoid the weekend before Christmas if you can.
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Questions people ask
Where can I see snow in December from Singapore?
Hokkaido and the Japan Alps, northern China and South Korea all have snow in December. Hokkaido has the most reliable snow early in the season.