Rovaniemi, Finland

Climate: - 15 to - 6 °C average temperature, 2 hours of sunshine per day, 15 days of snowfall in December

© Visitrovaniemi.fi

Reason to book: Winter and Christmas fans can't miss the Gateway to the Arctic Circle. After all, Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus! Another attraction is undoubtedly the chance to experience the breathtaking Northern Lights. The enchanting winter landscape is perfect for adventures such as husky sleigh rides and reindeer safaris. There are also ideal conditions for snowshoeing and skiing. The tranquillity of nature and the silence of the snow-covered forests create a unique atmosphere.

© Visitrovaniemi.fi

Where to Stay: The Arctic Snow Hotel with its glass igloos offers aurora borealis and stargazing from the comfort of your bed. The breathtaking view is unrestricted and the igloos are warm, cozy nests.

Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos
Lehtoahontie 27, 97220 Sinettä, Finland
Tel.: +358 40 8453774
Web: arcticsnowhotel.fi
Price: Doubles from € 300

Courchevel, France

Climate: - 7 to - 3 °C average temperature, 6 hours of sunshine per day, 10 days of snowfall in December

Piotr Figlarz

Reason to Book: For discerning winter sports fans, there are few better destinations in December 2023 than the city in the French Alps. It offers an enchanting snowy landscape. And, of course, everything that motivated active travelers need to pursue their passion. For example, plenty of snow, perfectly groomed slopes and, of course, culinary delights at the summit. Even away from the ski slopes, the offer is huge. It ranges from shopping to horse-drawn sleigh rides or wellness.

© L'Apogée

Where to Stay: The selection of luxurious hotels and chalets is particularly large in Courchevel. Guests are spoiled for choice. But how about the L'Apogée Courchevel, for example? Simply because the beautiful ski-in, ski-out hotel is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. And so far it has lost none of its glamour. The season starts on December 15, 2023.

L'Apogée Courchevel
5 Rue Emile Allais, 73120 Courchevel, France
Tel.: +33 4 79 04 01 04
Web: oetkercollection.com
Price: Doubles from € 2,500

Sicily, Italy

Climate: 8 to 15 °C, 5 hours of sunshine per day, 8 days of rain per month in December

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Reason to Book: In December, when the many summer visitors of Sicily are long gone, a quiet and pleasant time begins. The temperatures are also mild. This also gives the Italian island a place on the list of the best travel destinations in December 2023. Historical sites such as the ancient theater in Taormina are often left to themselves. You can also spend hours strolling around the Valley of the Temples in ideal conditions.

Relais & Châteaux

Where to Stay: The Tasca d'Almerita family runs the Relais & Châteaux Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia, a boutique hotel in Capofaro. Surrounded by 4.5 hectares of vineyards, guests can feel right at home. The family's wines are of course always worth a tip.

Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia
Isola di Salina, Comune di, Via Faro, 3, 98050 Malfa, Italy
Tel: +39 090 984 4330
Web: capofaro.it
Price: Doubles incl. breakfast from € 350

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Climate: 25 to 30 °C average temperature, 7 hours of sunshine per day, 10 days of rain in December

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Reason to Book: Long before the Carnival crowds flock to Rio in February, it's high season for sun worshippers. The climate is ideal for relaxing days on the beach. Or for water sports and sightseeing. The short rain showers in between are tropical and often a welcoming change. From Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue to the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana: Here, summer has only just begun.

© Belmond

Where to Stay: Situated on the eponymous beach, the Copacabana Palace is one of the most luxurious addresses in Rio. Two restaurants with Michelin stars, a rooftop tennis court and a large pool also speak for a stay in this Art Deco pearl.

Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel
Av. Atlântica, 1702 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22021-001, Brazil
Tel.: +55 21 2548-7070
Web: belmond.com
Price: Doubles from € 570

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Climate: 25 to 30 °C average temperature, 9 hours of sunshine per day, 5 rainy days in December

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Reason to Book: Palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters are the postcard motif that is Zanzibar. The island is located off the east coast of Africa and promises everything sun-lovers could wish for, even in December. Excursions to the Jozani National Park, the mangrove forests or the old town of Stone Town provide plenty of variety. Legendary: the famous gourmet restaurant The Rock literally situated on a rock in the ocean.

© andBeyond

Where to Stay: The rustic Banda round huts at andBeyond Mnemba Island can only accommodate 24 guests in total. This makes the resort on the small island of Mnemba a wonderful hideaway. Plenty of privacy, unique experiences and service with heart complete the experience.

andBeyond Mnemba Island
andBeyond Mnemba Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tel.: +27 11 809 4300
Web: andbeyond.com
Price: Doubles from € 1,600