cheap places to travel in december

4 min read 06-03-2025

Meta Description: Dreaming of a December getaway without breaking the bank? Discover 10 surprisingly affordable destinations perfect for escaping the winter chill. From sun-drenched beaches to charming European towns, plan your budget-friendly adventure now! Explore hidden gems and incredible deals – your dream vacation awaits!

Introduction: Beat the Winter Blues Without Emptying Your Wallet

December often conjures images of snowy landscapes and roaring fireplaces, but it doesn't have to mean hefty travel expenses. This guide highlights cheap places to travel in December, offering a mix of sun-soaked escapes and charming winter wonderlands, all without draining your savings. Get ready to explore amazing destinations without the hefty price tag!

Top 10 Cheap Places to Travel in December

1. Mexico: Sun, Sand, and Savings

Why it's cheap: Mexico offers incredible value, especially during the shoulder season (which includes December). Flights and accommodation are often cheaper than peak summer months.
What to do: Explore ancient Mayan ruins, relax on pristine beaches, sample delicious street food, and experience vibrant culture. Consider destinations like Cancun, Tulum (though it's trending upward in price), or Puerto Vallarta for varied budgets.
Pro-Tip: Look for all-inclusive resorts for better value, or consider staying in smaller towns outside of major tourist hubs.

2. Portugal: Charming Towns and Affordable Delights

Why it's cheap: Portugal is a hidden gem for budget travelers. Accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively inexpensive compared to other European countries.
What to do: Explore the historic streets of Lisbon and Porto, enjoy delicious seafood, and soak in the sun along the Algarve coast. December offers fewer crowds and potentially lower prices.
Pro-Tip: Consider traveling during the week for better deals on flights and accommodation.

3. Thailand: Tropical Paradise on a Budget

Why it's cheap: Thailand is famous for its affordability, offering delicious food, comfortable accommodation, and incredible experiences at reasonable prices. December falls within the cooler, drier season.
What to do: Explore bustling Bangkok, relax on beautiful beaches in Krabi or Phuket, or visit ancient temples. Thailand offers something for every traveler.
Pro-Tip: Utilize local transportation (buses and trains) to save money. Street food is a delicious and affordable way to experience Thai cuisine.

4. Vietnam: Southeast Asian Adventure

Why it's cheap: Similar to Thailand, Vietnam provides incredible value for your money. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively inexpensive.
What to do: Explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruise Ha Long Bay, visit the ancient city of Hue, and enjoy the stunning beaches of Nha Trang or Phu Quoc.
Pro-Tip: Travel during the off-season for better deals. Negotiate prices when shopping at local markets.

5. Nicaragua: Central American Charm

Why it's cheap: Nicaragua is a budget-friendly Central American destination with stunning landscapes and a relaxed atmosphere.
What to do: Surf world-class waves, explore colonial cities like Granada and León, relax on beautiful beaches, and visit volcanoes.
Pro-Tip: Learn basic Spanish to enhance your experience and potentially negotiate better prices.

6. Medellín, Colombia: City of Eternal Spring

Why it's cheap: Medellín is a vibrant city with a surprisingly affordable cost of living.
What to do: Explore the city's innovative public transportation system, experience the nightlife, visit museums and art galleries, and enjoy the city's beautiful parks.
Pro-Tip: Utilize the metrocable system for stunning city views and affordable transportation.

7. Budapest, Hungary: European Charm on a Budget

Why it's cheap: Budapest is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities. Food, drinks, and accommodation are all relatively inexpensive, especially outside of peak tourist season.
What to do: Explore the stunning architecture, relax in thermal baths, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and savor traditional Hungarian cuisine.
Pro-Tip: Take advantage of free walking tours to learn about the city's history and culture.

8. Seville, Spain: Andalusian Flair

Why it's cheap: While Spain can be expensive in some areas, Seville offers a more affordable option, especially outside of peak summer months.
What to do: Explore the Alcázar Palace, wander through the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood, enjoy flamenco shows, and sample tapas.
Pro-Tip: Stay in a hostel or Airbnb to save on accommodation costs.

9. Southern Italy (Naples, Sicily): Authentic Italian Experience

Why it's cheap: Compared to other parts of Italy, Southern Italy offers more affordable travel options.
What to do: Explore ancient ruins, enjoy stunning coastal scenery, savor delicious Italian food (especially pizza!), and experience the vibrant culture.
Pro-Tip: Travel during the off-season to secure lower prices on flights and accommodation.

10. Costa Rica: Nature's Paradise (with planning!)

Why it's cheap (relatively): Costa Rica can be expensive, but with careful planning, you can find budget-friendly options.
What to do: Explore lush rainforests, zipline through the canopy, visit stunning waterfalls, and relax on beautiful beaches.
Pro-Tip: Opt for hostels or eco-lodges outside of major tourist areas. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for better deals.

Planning Your Budget-Friendly December Trip

How to find cheap flights: Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals. Be flexible with your travel dates – flying mid-week or during less popular times often saves money.

Finding affordable accommodation: Consider staying in hostels, guesthouses, Airbnbs, or budget-friendly hotels. Look for deals and discounts on booking websites.

Saving money on food: Take advantage of local markets, street food, and smaller restaurants. Cooking your own meals can also significantly reduce your food costs.

Conclusion: Your Dream December Escape Awaits!

December travel doesn't have to be expensive. With a little planning and research, you can experience incredible destinations without breaking the bank. From tropical beaches to charming European cities, the options are endless. Start planning your budget-friendly December adventure today! Remember to book flights and accommodations in advance, especially for popular destinations. Happy travels!