As winter descends across Europe, the search begins amongst many of those with wanderlust for sunshine, soft sands and somewhere warm enough to trade scarves for swimsuits.
Whether you're seeking a short-haul dose of winter sun or an exotic far-flung adventure, there are plenty of destinations where it's gloriously hot in December. From Europe's Canary Islands to the shimmering shores of the Maldives, these are the hottest countries in December for those chasing warmth and wonder away from the winter chill.
Where is Hot in December in Europe?
If you're looking for hot destinations in December which don't require a long-haul flight, the Canary Islands are your perfect location.
Each island offers its own flavour of sunshine and scenery. The largest island of Tenerife blends volcanic landscapes with sophisticated beach resorts and chic dining along Costa Adeje. Gran Canaria entices with golden dunes and lively coastal towns, while Lanzarote dazzles with its otherworldly lava fields and striking modernist architecture. For something more tranquil, Fuerteventura is famed for its endless beaches and turquoise waters which are ideal for windsurfing or simply unwinding.
With a flight time of just over four hours from the UK, the Canary Islands are not only some of the hottest places to go in December, but also some of the most convenient. Warm seas, clear skies and a laid back island vibe make them a timeless choice for anyone in need of a sunny European getaway.
Long Haul Hot Destinations in December to Visit
If you are willing to travel beyond Europe in search of the hottest countries in December, Dubai is a destination that is hard to beat. With daytime highs around 28 degrees, December is one of the best months to visit the United Arab Emirates - hot enough for the beach, yet mild enough to explore comfortably.
Dubai's skyline is a testament to modern luxury, rising dramatically from the desert with glittering towers and world class holiday resorts. You can spend your mornings shopping in designer boutiques at The Dubai Mall, your afternoons relaxing at the iconic Jumeirah Beach and your evenings dining under the stars with views of the Burj Khalifa.
Beyond the city, visitors can venture into the Arabian Desert for a luxury safari, enjoying sunset dune drives and candlelit dinners under vast desert skies. December also brings a calendar of events - from glamorous beach clubs to festive celebrations that add a touch of Christmas magic to the warmth.
With direct flights from London taking around seven hours, Dubai offers everything you could wish for in a winter escape: guaranteed sunshine, exceptional hospitality, and endless things to see and do. For those wondering where is hot in December that also feels utterly indulgent, Dubai remains an excellent choice.
Beachside Villas in the Maldives
For travellers dreaming of seclusion, serenity and sublime heat, the Maldives tops the list of the hottest places to visit in December. This Indian Ocean paradise boasts average temperatures around 30 degrees, crystal clear waters and postcard-perfect lagoons - the very definition of tropical bliss.
December marks the start of the dry season, so you'll enjoy calm seas and clear skies, ideal for snorkelling or diving among coral reefs teeming with marine life. Many of the Maldives' private island resorts feature overwater villas, each offering direct access to the ocean and the kind of privacy that makes it a favourite among honeymooners and those seeking a romantic getaway.
Days in the Maldives unfold at your own pace: breakfast served on your terrace, afternoons spent floating above coral gardens and evenings dining barefoot on the beach beneath the stars. It's not just one of the hottest countries in December - it's one of the most beautiful places on Earth, where every detail is designed for relaxation and romance.
Culture & Adventure in Thailand
If you're craving both warmth and culture, Thailand is another of the best hot places to visit in December. With average temperatures between 28 degrees and 33 degrees, the weather is ideal for exploring bustling cities, historic temples and idyllic beaches.
Bangkok bursts with life in December with vibrant street markets, rooftop bars and glittering temples which provide a real feast for the senses. However, for many, Thailand's real allure during the winter months lies on its coastlines. The Andaman sea side - including Phuket, Krabi and the Phi Phi - is dry, sunny and perfect for beach lovers. You can expect turquoise waters, limestone cliffs and world class resorts where you can unwind in luxury surroundings after a day of island hopping or snorkelling.
Further North, Chiang Mai offers a different kind of warmth - not just from the sun, but from its serene mountain scenery and traditional hospitality. December is also festival season in Thailand, with local celebrations adding colour and culture to the sunshine.
Whether you're sipping coconut water on a beach in Koh Lanta or exploring night bazaars in Bangkok, Thailand's blend of tropical weather, exquisite cuisine and vibrant culture make it one of the hottest places to visit in December for both adventure and relaxation.
An Unforgettable Safari in South Africa
For a December holiday that combines heat, wildlife, and sophistication, South Africa is a dream destination. December marks the height of summer in the Southern Hemisphere, with temperatures averaging between 27 and 32 degrees - making it one of the hottest countries in December to visit.
A safari in Kruger National Park offers the chance to see Africa's legendary Big Five- lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo - against a backdrop of golden landscapes. The dry conditions of earlier months give way to lush greenery and sightings of newborn animals are common, adding to the magic of the safari experience.
After your safari adventure, you can unwind in the cosmopolitan coastal city of Cape Town, where Table Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop to sunny beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton. December also brings long daylight hours and a festive atmosphere, perfect for exploring vineyards in Stellenbosch or enjoying a scenic driving holiday along the Garden Route.
South Africa delivers pretty much everything, with heat, natural beauty, fine dining and thrilling adventure. It's one of the hottest places to go in December for those who want sunshine with substance, where every day promises a new, unforgettable adventure.
Finding the Perfect Winter Sun Escape
Whether you prefer the short flight and familiar charm of the Canary Islands or the barefoot luxury of the Maldives, December offers a wealth of destinations where summer never ends. The world's hottest places to visit in December stretch from Europe's Atlantic isles to the deserts of Dubai and the beaches of Southeast Asia.
Choosing where to go depends on your mood: a touch of adventure in South Africa, cultural immersion in Thailand, or serene seclusion in the Maldives. What unites them all is the promise of warmth, blue skies, and a welcome escape from the winter chill.
So, when someone asks where is hot in December, you'll know exactly where to point - toward the sun-drenched islands, shimmering seas, and golden landscapes where summer lingers all year long.