8 sunny Christmas destinations to visit around the world

This list is perfect for anyone who: Loves Christmas, enjoys traveling, and prefers warmth over winter chills.

The best part? You don’t have to give up any of these wishes!

On our vast planet, you can celebrate Christmas, satisfy your travel cravings, and skip the freezing cold (we’re looking at you, US winter storms of 2022) all at once.

We’ve scoured the globe to uncover eight destinations that are known for their Christmas festivities and typically offer warm temperatures in December, ranging from spring to summer-like warmth.

Ditch the heavy jacket, pack your stocking (and maybe a swimsuit), and head to:

Antigua, Guatemala

Average temperature in December: 16.6°C / 62°F

This delightful Central American city has it all: a breathtaking setting with a volcano as a backdrop, stunning Spanish colonial architecture, and pleasant, spring-like weather year-round. You might want a light jacket for the evening, but with the dry season in full swing, an umbrella won’t be necessary.

Lily García, a Spanish teacher at Antigueña Spanish Academy, shared with Dinogo Travel some of the seasonal highlights, including the cherished posadas – processions that reenact the journey of Joseph and Mary.

"This is a small procession that takes place every night from December 15 to 24," she explained. "People gather, singing Christmas carols as they make their way down the street. When they reach a house where they are symbolically welcomed, the procession prays together, and everyone shares traditional foods and drinks unique to this time of year."

"There’s no formal invitation – anyone is welcome to join in."

On December 24, there’s a festive dance at La Merced Church. This event features the traditional Los Cabezones dance, where participants wear enormous head masks and dance to marimba music through the streets of Antigua, returning to the church late at night.

Barbados

Average temperature in December: 25.9°C / 78.7°F

This independent island, once a British colony, transitions from the wet to the dry season in December. While you might catch a brief rain shower, you’re guaranteed a warm Christmas – no need for a crackling fireplace here.

Both businesses and homes go all out with festive decorations for Christmas here.

And food takes center stage – don’t miss the delicious cake, as recommended by Barbados.org. It’s a blend of dried fruits (cherries, raisins, currants, prunes), aromatic spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, allspice), and a splash of liquor (rum, port wine, falernum).

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average temperature in December: 22.6°C / 72.7°F

Buenos Aires experiences all four seasons, but being in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas marks the start of summer. While there may be occasional rain, the city doesn’t usually see heavy downpours.

If you prefer a more relaxed Christmas compared to the bustling celebrations of Europe and North America, Buenos Aires might be the perfect choice. But don’t worry, it’s not entirely quiet.

Daniel Beauregard of LandingPadBA.com notes that you can enjoy a dazzling fireworks show on Christmas Eve, and many of the city’s famous tango performances stay open during the holiday season.

Renowned for its amazing cuisine, Buenos Aires also delights in traditional Christmas treats like pan dulce (a fruit-filled sweet bread) and ensalada de fruta con helado (fruit salad with ice cream).

Kolkata, India

Average temperature in December: 20.1°C / 68.1°F

December brings much-needed relief to Kolkata, as it’s usually the driest month and one of the coolest, alongside January. For a local, it’s winter weather, but to visitors from colder regions, it feels like a pleasantly mild winter.

While Hindus make up the majority and Muslims form the largest minority, the 40,000 or so Christians in Kolkata host a lively Christmas celebration that welcomes everyone.

A key event during the holiday season is the annual Kolkata Christmas Festival, held along the bustling Park Street. The festival features food stalls offering mouthwatering Bengali dishes, live music, and a children’s pageant.

Kolkata offers the best of both worlds – a chance to revel in Christmas traditions while experiencing the rich diversity of other religions and cultures.

Medellín, Colombia

Average temperature in December: 15.6°C / 60.1°F

Though Colombia lies within the tropics, Medellín, perched at an altitude of about 1,475 meters (4,840 feet), enjoys spring-like temperatures throughout the year.

Once infamous for drug-related violence, this city of approximately 2 million people is now renowned for its vibrant flowers and, during the holiday season, its spectacular Christmas lights.

Medellín is a top contender for the world’s most impressive Christmas lights display, and you can find out more about where to view the Alumbrados Navideños at MedellínLiving.com.

Naples, Florida

Average temperature in December: 20.4°C / 68.7°F

While temperatures in the continental United States can vary greatly during Christmas, the beautiful Gulf Coast city of Naples in Southwest Florida is one of the best bets for warmth. Even during major cold snaps like the one in late December 2022, Naples remains relatively warmer.

By December, South Florida enters its dry season. Click here for a roundup of the best holiday events.

This includes the annual boat parade, where a vibrant procession of boats showcases an array of creative and festive lighting displays.

San Fernando, Philippines

Average temperature in December: 26.1°C / 77.5°F

This tropical destination is one of the warmest spots on our list. So, what can you expect from this city located just north of Manila, aside from the lovely balmy weather?

In a word: Lanterns. Massive, vibrant, and enchanting Christmas lanterns that represent the Star of Bethlehem.

The Giant Lantern Festival, which has been celebrated for over 80 years, has earned San Fernando the title of “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.” What began as a small, local tradition has grown into a larger, internationally recognized event, drawing increasing attention from travelers in recent years.

This part of the Philippines typically finishes its rainy season by December, so there's a strong chance the weather won't spoil the festivities.

Seville, Spain

Average temperature in December: 11.3°C / 52.3°F

We move from the warmest location in our roundup to one of the coolest with Seville. However, for those seeking a memorable Christmas in continental Europe without the chill, this is one of the best places to be.

Nighttime lows may dip to around 7°C (45°F), but this is easily manageable with a sweater or light jacket.

Still not convinced? The Telegraph in the UK named Seville the best winter city in Europe.

You’ll likely be amazed by Seville’s Belen displays, elaborate nativity scenes that attract long lines (and for good reason). Attending a service or taking a tour at the magnificent Seville Cathedral would be a memorable highlight of any Christmas visit.