10 Best Places to Travel Solo in December: From Bali to Prague
Traveling alone in December can be one of the best gifts you give yourself. Some places shine brighter in winter, while others offer warm weather and quiet beaches. Here are 10 places I’ve personally visited that I believe are the best places to travel solo in December. Each one gave me something unique: peace, joy, freedom, and I hope they do the same for you.
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
My Experience: I stayed in Chiang Mai for two peaceful weeks and could have easily stayed longer. December brought cool mornings and sunny days, perfect for walking around without the usual heat. One of my favorite days was riding up the hill to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep just after sunrise.
I also joined a Thai cooking class where I made green curry and pad Thai, and I still use the recipe today. I met other solo travelers while wandering through night markets and sharing meals at casual cafés. Chiang Mai felt calm, creative, and deeply welcoming.
Where to Go:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – A temple on the mountain with stunning views of the city and a peaceful early-morning atmosphere
- Sunday Walking Street Market – Great for handmade goods, snacks, music, and meeting other travelers or locals
- Elephant Nature Park – A safe place for rescued elephants. You can spend the day feeding them, walking with them, and hearing their stories.
- Nimmanhaemin Road – A trendy area filled with coffee shops, co-working spaces, and quiet corners for reading or writing
- Doi Inthanon National Park – Home to Thailand’s highest peak, beautiful waterfalls, and forest trails
- Chiang Mai Old City temples – A peaceful area to walk and visit centuries-old temples tucked between small streets
2. Prague, Czech Republic
My Experience: Prague in December feels like a winter dream. The streets glow with soft lights, and the air smells like cinnamon and roasted chestnuts. I wandered through the Christmas markets wrapped in my coat, sipping hot mulled wine and trying local sweets.
Snowflakes fell gently as I stood in front of the Astronomical Clock, watching it chime at the hour. I walked the length of Charles Bridge at sunrise, almost empty, mist rising over the river, and felt completely at peace. It’s a city that makes you slow down and soak it all in, especially when you’re on your own.
Where to Go:
- Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock – A magical spot during December with festive lights, carolers, and a huge Christmas tree
- Prague Castle – A beautiful walk up the hill and stunning views over the snowy rooftops of the city
- Charles Bridge – Peaceful in the early morning; great for reflection and photography
- Wenceslas Square Christmas Market – One of the biggest in the city with gifts, food, and a cheerful crowd
- St. Vitus Cathedral – Grand and quiet, perfect for a midday solo visit
- Vltava River evening cruise – A relaxing way to see Prague’s lights and bridges from the water
3. Cape Town, South Africa
My Experience: While most places were freezing, Cape Town in December felt like a summer paradise. I hiked up Table Mountain in the early morning and watched clouds roll over the edge, a sight I’ll never forget.
I took a wine tour in Stellenbosch with a small group, sipped chilled rosé under the sun, and felt completely at ease. The beaches were perfect for quiet reading, and the city felt alive with energy and culture. It’s a place where I could be active, social, or peaceful, all in one day.
Where to Go:
- Table Mountain – Hike or take the cable car up for panoramic views of Cape Town and the ocean
- V&A Waterfront – Great for solo shopping, local food, and watching the harbor come alive with music and street shows
- Boulders Beach – A beautiful beach where you can walk alongside a colony of African penguins
- Cape Point – Scenic cliffs, strong winds, and dramatic views at the southern tip of the peninsula
- Bo-Kaap neighborhood – Colorful houses and rich culture; a lovely area to explore on foot with a camera in hand
- Stellenbosch wine region – Easy to visit on a guided tour, known for its vineyards, mountains, and relaxed pace
4. Vienna, Austria
My Experience: I went to Vienna in mid-December, and it felt like I had stepped into a Christmas postcard. The city glowed with lights, and music floated out from cafes and public squares. I visited a classical concert at a small venue and found myself seated next to a kind elderly couple who insisted I try the traditional Viennese biscuits they brought.
I wandered from one festive market to another, sipping hot punch and eating roasted chestnuts. Even walking through quiet streets in the evening felt peaceful and safe. The whole city moved at a calm, elegant pace ideal for solo travelers looking to enjoy the holidays in their own way.
Where to Go:
- Schonbrunn Palace – A grand palace with gardens, holiday markets, and a warm café where I enjoyed apple strudel
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral – Right in the heart of the city, it’s a peaceful spot to pause and listen to the echo of music and prayer
- Belvedere Museum – Home to Klimt’s ‘The Kiss,’ and a quiet space to enjoy art in a warm, welcoming setting
- Rathausplatz Christmas Market – A festive wonderland with lights, music, and stalls filled with handmade gifts and sweets
- Vienna State Opera – I took a short guided tour and marveled at the stunning gold interiors and deep musical history
- Cafe Central – Historic and cozy, where I enjoyed a solo coffee and cake while reading in a corner by the window
5. Lisbon, Portugal
My Experience: Lisbon felt like a gentle friend, kind, slow, and always sunny in spirit. I spent quiet mornings climbing the hills of Alfama, where laundry hung above cobbled streets and the sound of Fado music drifted out of open windows.
I found a riverside café that became my go-to spot for coffee and pastel de nata, just watching the ferries move along the water. In the evenings, I listened to street musicians in little plazas and never felt rushed.
It’s a city that lets you be, whether you want to walk, sit, write, or simply look around. I never once felt out of place or alone.
Where to Go:
- Alfama district – A maze of narrow streets, tiled buildings, and music-filled corners that feel timeless and welcoming
- Belem Tower – A riverside fortress with history and views, great for a quiet afternoon walk by the water
- Jeronimos Monastery – A peaceful and impressive building with stunning details and quiet gardens
- Time Out Market – Full of local food stalls where I tried everything from seafood rice to custard tarts
- Tram 28 route – A fun, scenic ride through Lisbon’s old neighborhoods; sit by the window and enjoy the views
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – My favorite spot to watch the sun set over the city with a warm drink and journal in hand
6. Marrakech, Morocco
My Experience: Marrakech in December was full of color, sound, and energy, but without the extreme summer heat. I stayed in a peaceful riad tucked away behind the chaos of the medina. Once inside, it felt like a different world.
My days started with mint tea on the rooftop and ended with soft drums echoing in the night. I explored endless souks filled with lanterns, spices, and handmade goods. I took a camel ride in the Agafay Desert and spent a night under the stars, which felt both humbling and magical.
As a solo traveler, I appreciated how easy it was to join guided tours and how welcoming the locals were to visitors.
Where to Go:
- Jemaa el-Fnaa square – A lively heart of the city filled with food stalls, music, storytellers, and endless movement
- Majorelle Garden – A peaceful retreat with bold colors and exotic plants, perfect for a quiet solo walk
- Bahia Palace – A stunning example of Moroccan architecture with tile work and gardens that invite slow wandering
- Koutoubia Mosque – The city’s landmark mosque, peaceful to admire from the nearby gardens during sunset
- Saadian Tombs – Tucked away but full of history and intricate detail that shows the beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship
- Day trip to the Atlas Mountains – A refreshing escape with mountain villages, waterfalls, and views that are worth the drive
7. Bali, Indonesia
My Experience: I stayed in Ubud for a week, which felt like a personal retreat. My mornings started with yoga and a smoothie bowl, followed by slow walks through town. The rain came in short bursts, warm and soft, never enough to ruin the day.
I spent hours reading in open-air cafés and journaling by rice fields. One evening, I joined a sound healing session and met other solo travelers who were also taking time to reconnect with themselves. Bali has a calm rhythm, and I found it easy to be present, quiet, and free. It was exactly what I needed.
Where to Go:
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces – A peaceful and green area with layered rice fields, ideal for early morning walks and photos
- Ubud Monkey Forest – A fun place to wander among monkeys and old temples, just a short walk from the center of Ubud
- Tirta Empul Temple – A sacred water temple where locals and visitors take part in traditional cleansing rituals
- Campuhan Ridge Walk – A scenic path through hills and greenery, perfect for quiet solo walks at sunrise or sunset
- Uluwatu Temple (for sunset) – A temple on a cliff with ocean views and traditional dance performances in the evening
- Seminyak or Canggu beaches – Relaxed beaches great for lounging, sunset watching, or trying a beginner’s surf class
8. Queenstown, New Zealand
My Experience: When I arrived in Queenstown in December, the summer weather was perfect, warm, bright, and full of life. I joined a kayaking tour on Lake Wakatipu and paddled across still, glassy waters surrounded by mountains. I hiked the Ben Lomond track and reached the summit just in time for a breathtaking view over the lake.
I also took a road trip to Glenorchy, with scenic stops and long stretches of silence that felt like meditation. The town is full of friendly energy and solo-friendly activities. Every day felt light and joyful, and I left with a deep sense of freedom and clarity.
Where to Go:
- Skyline Queenstown (gondola & views) – Take the gondola up for sweeping views, and try the luge ride if you’re feeling adventurous
- Lake Wakatipu – A quiet place for solo kayaking or lakeside walks with amazing mountain views
- Glenorchy (road trip) – A scenic drive with open landscapes, great for photo stops and peaceful reflection
- Milford Sound (day trip) – A stunning fjord with waterfalls, cliffs, and boat tours that leave a lasting impression
- Queenstown Gardens – A quiet escape in town with lakeside paths, blooming flowers, and picnic spots
- Arrowtown historic village – A charming town with gold rush history, cute cafés, and relaxing walking trails
9. Tulum, Mexico
My Experience: Tulum gave me the solo trip I didn’t know I needed. I started each day with a bike ride along quiet roads, stopping for coconut water and fresh fruit at local stands. I lay on the beach for hours, watching the sky shift and the waves roll in. It felt calm and endless.
The cenotes were like little hidden worlds, cool, clear, and peaceful. I joined a yoga class one morning and stayed after just to talk with other solo travelers. The town’s slow pace, friendly faces, and natural beauty made it feel like a soft reset. I never felt like I needed to rush or explain myself; I could just be there, fully.
Where to Go:
- Tulum Ruins – Ancient Mayan ruins on a cliff overlooking the sea, peaceful to explore in the morning before crowds arrive
- Gran Cenote – A crystal-clear swimming hole with caves, fish, and turtle,s perfect for a refreshing solo dip
- Playa Paraiso – A laid-back beach with soft sand and turquoise water, ideal for sunbathing or reading under palm trees
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve – A vast natural area with wildlife, lagoons, and boat tours that feel truly off the grid
- Local beachfront cafés – Great for solo meals with ocean views; try grilled fish, smoothies, or vegan tacos
- Yoga studios & jungle gyms – Peaceful spaces for movement and mindfulness, often tucked between trees and greenery
10. Edinburgh, Scotland
My Experience: Edinburgh in December was everything I hoped for in a winter solo trip, crisp air, glowing lights, and a sense of history everywhere I turned. I wrapped up warm and wandered along the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile, stopping often just to take in the charm.
One night, I joined a ghost tour that ended with a group of us sharing laughs at a small pub. During the day, I explored museums at my own pace, browsed holiday markets for handmade gifts, and watched the city sparkle from the top of Arthur’s Seat.
Even in the cold, Edinburgh felt warm, the kind of place where solo travelers feel both free and welcomed.
Where to Go:
- Edinburgh Castle – A must-see historic fortress with panoramic views of the city and fascinating exhibits inside
- Royal Mile – The heart of the old town, lined with shops, hidden alleys, and street performers in the evening
- Princes Street Christmas Market – Full of holiday treats, handmade goods, and cozy places to warm up with mulled wine
- Arthur’s Seat – A brisk but rewarding hike with some of the best views over Edinburgh, especially beautiful at sunrise
- National Museum of Scotland – Free to enter and packed with everything from Scottish history to science and design
- Grassmarket – A lively historic spot with good food, friendly bars, and lots of fellow travellers to chat with.
What to Pack for Solo Travel in December
Traveling solo in December means preparing for everything from chilly city streets to warm beach days, depending on your destination. I’ve made mistakes before, like forgetting gloves in Prague or not packing a swimsuit for Bali! So here’s a list of the essentials I always bring to stay safe, warm, and comfortable on my solo December trips:
- Layered Clothing: Thin thermals, sweaters, and a warm outer layer so you can adjust to indoor and outdoor temperatures.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Trust me, you’ll walk more than expected. Pick a pair that’s weather-appropriate and broken in.
- Travel-Sized Toiletries: Always keep moisturizer and lip balm, winter air dries you out fast!
- Daypack or Sling Bag: Keeps your hands free and essentials close.
- Power Bank: Especially important when using maps and taking photos all day.
- Notebook or Journal: I always write down my thoughts in a new place. It keeps me grounded.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, even in cold weather.
- Swimsuit: You never know thermal spas, hot springs, or a warm beach might surprise you.
- Copy of Documents: Keep digital and printed copies of your ID, itinerary, and bookings just in case.
- Small First Aid Kit: Basics like band-aids, cold medicine, and pain relief can be a lifesaver when traveling alone.
Conclusion
Solo travel in December can be a deeply meaningful experience. Whether you’re walking through snowy streets in Europe, stretching on a beach in Bali, or sipping coffee at a cozy cafe in Lisbon, these places offer something special for every kind of solo journey.
Trust your instincts, stay curious, and enjoy every step. The world feels different when you explore it on your own, and it’s often better than you imagined.
