Winter holidays are not only about ski resorts. Slope conquerors have had their time, but there are also destinations for those who want to soak up the sun and swim in the sea – to get a dose of warmth before the frosty months. And in the cities of Russia, snow-covered and decorated for the New Year, comfort, hospitality and a rich program of walks will warm you up. But first things first.
December holidays in Russia
If you are planning a vacation in December 2022 and don’t know where to go, and didn’t count on traveling abroad, take a closer look at the cities of our country. We often put off traveling to them, although many are more impressive than distant countries. And where, if not here, can you feel the magic of the approaching holiday?
Kazan
The capital of Tatarstan can be leisurely explored in a couple of days, but it is so original and colorful that you will get the feeling of traveling through several cities or even countries at once. Visit the spectacular Kul Sharif Mosque, the Naryshkin Baroque Peter and Paul Cathedral, and the Temple of All Religions to appreciate how different cultures coexist harmoniously here. Shoot with a bow in the Kremlin, go through a quest in an ethnic village, and then take a photo at the Palace of Farmers and have fun in one of the largest water parks in the world, Riviera – so you will feel the contrast of history and modernity. And be sure to take a ride on the Around the World Ferris wheel, where each cabin corresponds to one of the world’s tourist capitals.
Suzdal
Suzdal is a city where you can travel back to the distant past and feel the true “Russian spirit”. Folk festivities in national costumes are often held here. And the historical center is so well preserved that tourists seem to find themselves in the times of princely Rus’. Its white stone architecture looks especially impressive in December, merging with the fresh snow. There is an ancient Kremlin, several impressive monasteries, many churches and chapels, and real peasant and merchant houses. The city is also considered the gastronomic capital of the Vladimir region: don’t miss the chance to enjoy cucumber jam, the best mead in the country and try Russian cuisine – from buckwheat porridge with giblets to dumplings with wild boar meat.
Ekaterinburg
In December, the weather in the Urals becomes harsh, but even when the average air temperature is not pleasant, the comfort of Yekaterinburg continues to warm. In addition, the city, despite its size, is so compact that you definitely won’t have time to freeze while walking around it. Go to any attraction, for example, the most popular of them – Plotinka – look for the red line and follow it. It is a circular route throughout the historical part of the city and covers 35 objects: museums, squares, temples, monuments, beautiful buildings and other iconic places. And let the desire to take a break on this interesting journey become a reason to visit as many cafes and restaurants as possible, because gastronomy is very developed in Yekaterinburg. We recommend the Gastroli gastropub, The Optimist bar and the Pate restaurant.
Sochi
The main southern resort of the country delights its guests all year round, because there are not only beaches for relaxation here. Take excursions and get acquainted with interesting museums, walk and breathe the sea air, climb to the observation deck on Mount Akhun and feel like a daredevil in Skypark.
If you are planning a vacation with children, Sochi is a great choice. Little travelers love the dolphinarium and oceanarium, and they will be completely delighted with the entertainment in Sochi Park. The whole family can wander around the arboretum for a long time, take pictures in the Olympic Park, go to the Yew-boxwood grove and the Agur waterfalls. And, of course, don’t forget about the start of the ski season. Even when hitting the slopes is not the goal of the trip, setting aside one day for skiing or snowboarding will be a great solution to bring back more impressions from your vacation.
Kaliningrad
In Kaliningrad the climate is much milder than in other parts of Russia. In winter there are no severe frosts here, which makes the trip quite pleasant: you can walk around the city for a long time, studying European history, go to the Curonian Spit to visit the famous Efa Heights and the Dancing Forest. And, of course, wander along the shores of the always exciting Baltic Sea. If you’re lucky, you’ll find amber. If not, don’t worry, they sell it here at every turn. And in general, December in Kaliningrad can be called the month of shopping. Christmas markets are opening everywhere, selling delicacies (be sure to try marzipan) and New Year’s souvenirs. One of these bazaars takes place near the Cathedral on Kant Island, where all tourists strive to listen to an organ concert.
Voronezh
Voronezh is sometimes called the new cultural capital of Russia. And this is not surprising. Festivals are constantly held here, creative spaces are opened, chamber theaters appear and the creative industry is developing. Enter the “High Five” art apartment – it is at once an artist’s workshop, a gallery, a film club, a lecture hall and a concert venue. Organize a gastromarathon on Komissarzhevskaya Street, where many restaurants, including unusual ones, have gathered. Go look for street art on Stepan Razin Street and at the Proletary Cinema. Take a tour of the cemeteries: Levoberezhny has the “Wall of Khoy”, dedicated to the leader of the Gaza Strip group, and Ternovoe, an old European-style cemetery, is recognized as a historical monument.
Yaroslavl
In the hospitable capital of the Golden Ring there are more than 30 ancient churches with relics and ancient frescoes, there is a beautiful Volga embankment, interesting craft workshops and museums, the oldest drama theater in Russia named after Fyodor Volkov, many skating rinks and winter entertainment, atmospheric streets, cozy cafes and pleasant hotels. If you want an active holiday, then remember that there are three ski centers near Yaroslavl – Shaksha, Podolino and Izgib. And not far from the city is hidden the village of Vyatskoye, recognized as one of the most unusual and beautiful in the country. It’s worth a trip here for the museums, picturesque architecture and black baths.
Nizhny Novgorod
There are cities of contrasts, where history meets modernity. And Nizhny Novgorod is a place where two eras merge together, one is reborn into the other, creating a new identity. Factories here are turning into cultural centers, the facades of openwork merchant houses are captured by street art, and bold original films are shown in the legendary cinema with a Soviet atmosphere. So let your walk around Nizhny not be limited to visiting the Kremlin, embankment and churches. And don’t forget to eat well – a trip to Nizhny Novgorod would be incomplete without visiting restaurants: it seems that dishes from all over the world are represented here.
St. Petersburg
A trip to the city on the Neva always turns out to be atmospheric, and winter is no exception. Palaces and museums against the background of snow and surrounded by many lights begin to look simply fabulous. By the way, visiting them will not involve crowds of tourists, since December is not the most popular month for trips to the Northern capital. And in order to properly feel the character of the city, walk through places that are not entirely obvious. For example, visit the oldest rock store or music store where the film “Brother” was filmed, look into the three-hundred-year-old pharmacy of Wilhelm Pehl, make a wish for the New Year in the courtyard of the ring house at the address Embankment. Fontanka, 92, walk through the labyrinth of twelve well buildings in the Benoit apartment building.
Moscow
December in Moscow is a month of brilliance. The snow-covered city is so decorated that it is probably the best destination to get into the New Year mood. Not only the eyes, but also the soul will rejoice: in the first month of winter, there will be no less festive entertainment in the capital than garlands. On every street there are souvenir stalls with original gifts, shops with warm drinks and treats. In a word, the bustle familiar to this city, especially before the New Year, is not noticed. Because it becomes incredibly cozy and fabulous. The weather shouldn’t be too harsh, but if you do get cold, warm up to advantage: go to the Tretyakov Gallery or any other museum that comes your way.
Vacation in December in warm countries
Where to go on holiday at sea in December is not an easy question, because there are many warm destinations. Some people want to be on the beach at the very beginning of winter in order to properly recharge themselves with the sun, others are planning to change the pre-New Year bustle to relaxation under the sound of the waves. We’ll tell you where to spend such a vacation.
Dominican Republic
A long flight is worth it if you spend your entire vacation swimming in the clearest sea, sunbathing on white sand beaches and enjoying the views of turquoise lagoons. The Atlantic coast, which includes the popular resort of Puerto Plata, is more suitable for adrenaline lovers. Various types of surfing are developed here, thanks to the high waves, diving for professionals and other activities. The Caribbean coast, on the contrary, is famous for its lack of waves and high water temperatures. The resort of La Romana, for example, is perfect for a relaxing family holiday in December. And if you want some spectacle, you can go to the dolphin reserve in Manati Park Bavaro.
United Arab Emirates
High humidity, sweltering stuffiness and scorching sun go away in December. The sea remains warm, and the absence of intense heat allows you to stay on the beach longer. Excursions are also becoming more comfortable – even in the desert you won’t feel overheated. It’s also great to include a boat trip along Dubai Creek to see the state-of-the-art buildings. You can strengthen your body a little before our long winter in the complex with the Mubazzarah baths – it is located near the city of Al Ain, where hot spring deposits are located. And don’t forget to set aside a few hours to visit shopping centers and oriental bazaars—a trip to the UAE would be incomplete without shopping.
Maldives
The Maldives is usually associated with a snow-white coastline and absolutely relaxing time spent at the hotel. We don’t argue that lying on the beach for several days, without rushing anywhere, is a must-have vacation item if you decide to vacation at sea in December 2022. But you can add other leisure options to the reboot: snorkeling and diving, water skiing and surfing, excursions to uninhabited islands, where tourists visit villages with local residents, exploring museums and architectural monuments in the capital.
Mexico
The country is suitable for you if, when choosing where to fly to the sea in December, you are looking for a fun and active destination. Mexican beaches are beautiful, especially in VIP resorts such as Acapulco. And outside the coast, you will constantly find yourself on holidays – the locals love them very much, it is a way of life for Mexicans. Everything is celebrated here on a grand scale: a lot of food, drinks and music. The rest of the time, you can’t miss the opportunity to get acquainted with ancient civilizations, but the alluring mysterious culture of the Mayans and Aztecs would hardly leave you a chance to bypass it – there are quite a lot of monuments here. It will be comfortable to explore them – by December, Mexico will experience rainless weather.
Turkey
Where to fly abroad to the sea in December if you want to have a relaxing holiday and get vivid impressions in one vacation? Turkey is universal in this regard. Alanya will be the warmest in December. In Side, Kemer, Belek, Antalya, sunny weather with little precipitation usually prevails at the beginning of winter. Aegean resorts such as Bodrum and Marmaris tend to be cooler. But the absence of heat and crowds of tourists allows you to enjoy an excursion holiday. If the weather is not beach weather, go to ancient ruins, museums and nature. Or take a long hike along the Lycian Way.
Sri Lanka
Leaving the picturesque Sri Lankan beach is not an easy task, but still, on the island you can go for beautiful scenery every day. There are rice and tea plantations, national parks with incredible nature, safari parks and a rich underwater world. Entertainment options include elephant rides, a visit to a turtle farm, and acquaintance with ancient architecture, cave temples, and ancient forts. Sri Lanka is also rightfully considered the country of waterfalls. And in the south of the island there is the Sinharaja National Park, which is called the king of the jungle for its primeval forests with animals listed in the Red Book.
India, Goa
Here you can watch gorgeous sunsets, learn diving and snorkeling, and get acquainted with exotic animals in the Bhagwan Mahavir Nature Reserve. At local markets you can do budget shopping and buy everything from spices to jewelry. The beaches of North Goa are more like clubs based on interests: each one brings together lovers of certain types of entertainment. Some people do yoga all day, while others surf the waves. The beaches of the southern part are not so hectic and crowded; they have everything for an imposing holiday. And lovers of noisy nightclubs and discos until dawn will definitely love Goa – it seems that the state never sleeps.
Thailand
First of all, people go to Thailand for the beaches, which the whole world knows about. But after you soak up the snow-white sand and explore the underwater world, remember that besides them, there are many interesting places in this country. Explore jungle trails in national parks, visit Buddhist temples, and visit a floating market to buy fresh fruit and seafood. There are also non-traditional types of leisure. For example, you can not just ride elephants, but take care of them, not just relax with a Thai massage, but learn how to do it. First, try Thai cuisine, and then master the preparation of the dishes you like so that you can take a piece of Thai with you forever.
Vietnam
The beaches of Vietnam are famous for inexpensive but decent diving – diving spots are scattered throughout the country. If you want something exotic, you can see it in the southern resorts: huge green turtles, pufferfish and barracudas will definitely impress you. There is also ancient architecture: the country has preserved pagodas, temples with Buddha statues, ruins of citadels, palaces and mausoleums. To further diversify your beach holiday, visit Dalat – it is very different from other cities in Vietnam, as it was founded by French colonialists. The resort is called “little Paris”, it is located in the mountains, in a picturesque, relief area and is surrounded by pine forests, lakes and golf courses.
Egypt
Both young people and married couples with children go to Egypt. The main resort areas where you can swim and sunbathe in December are Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada. Here you can admire the coral reefs while snorkeling and diving. Regardless of the cost of tours, operators usually reduce the program to a beach holiday, so going here is much more interesting as an independent tourist. The country is the cradle of Western civilization, as the ancient Greeks and Romans drew inspiration from the cultural achievements of ancient Egypt. Be sure to wander among the ruins and pyramids – you can even start your vacation with this – and after, having gained some impressions, go enjoy relaxation on the Red Sea.
Where to ski and snowboard in December?
The ski season has started, experienced riders have already prepared their equipment, and beginner athletes can always rent it at the resorts themselves. If you are a beginner, do not waste time and quickly master the skill; if you have been in love with the slopes for a long time, extend the time of conquering them by starting skiing at the very beginning of winter. And we will tell you where you can do this in December.
Serbia, “Kopaonik”
Kopaonik is the largest ski resort in Serbia. It is located in the south of the country, the clouds do not linger near it, and the sun shines here most of the year. There are many trails of varying difficulty levels, a convenient lift system, ski schools, and developed infrastructure, including hotels, cafes and restaurants. The prices are reasonable, one of the lowest in Europe. And guests perfectly combine active recreation on the slope with a cultural program. Next door is the entrance to the national park, where there are areas for tourist hiking. You can go on excursions to ancient monasteries and medieval castles.
Sochi, “Rosa Khutor”, “Krasnaya Polyana”, “Gazprom”
“Krasnaya Polyana” is suitable either for beginner skiers and snowboarders, or for already experienced riders – there are not too many trails of average difficulty level here. If you prefer these, you’d better go to the neighboring Rosa Khutor or Gazprom’s Laura slope. But at Krasnaya Polyana there are a lot of opportunities for freeride – 6 official zones.
Rosa Khutor is a modern and youth resort. There are a huge number of wide trails and cool snow parks. Gazprom pleases beginners: there are 7 tracks equipped for them. There are special trails for the whole family – it is in this area that you can find the widest and longest slopes.
Kirovsk, “Kukisvumchorr” and “Big Woodyavr”
Tourists love these resorts for the Arctic nature of the Khibiny. Both have been working since November. “Kukisvumchorr” is more suitable for connoisseurs of freeride and those who like to ride in the forest powder. All slopes have night lighting and are designed for skiing in the dark.
“Big Woodyavr” is larger in size and is aimed at family vacations. The rental service is well organized here, there are experienced instructors, and you can relax between descents or at the end of an active day in a restaurant with a panoramic view of the Khibiny Mountains.
For those wishing to diversify their sports holiday, the resort has organized snowmobile tours. Each one is formed around a theme: somewhere the emphasis is on getting to know northern cuisine, somewhere fishing awaits tourists, and somewhere travelers are offered a real safari on the snowy slopes.
Kemerovo region, “Sheregesh”
One of the most equipped resorts in Western Siberia and the pride of the region. It attracts skiers and snowboarders with a record-long skiing season, and the unique climate allows skiing on powder starting in November. Just imagine how much adrenaline you can get on virgin soil in the real Siberian taiga.
Both beginners and thrill-seekers come here – the snow is always of good quality, and the slopes are suitable for athletes of any level. But the resort is especially attractive to freeriders: here you can jump from cliffs and, if desired, even order a ride into a remote area on a snowmobile. By the way, you don’t have to worry about avalanches, they don’t happen here.
Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, “Mountain Air”
The resort has two peaks, 19 tracks of varying degrees of difficulty, including a training slope, a ski cross track, a snowboard park, equipment rental and repair, luggage storage, an instructor service, three cafes and one restaurant with panoramic views. Rich nature can also be observed on the slopes. If the weather lets you down, the artificial snowmaking system will maintain the thickness of the cover, and the lighting will work in the evening – you definitely won’t waste your time. For a change, try one of the walking routes – all of them offer amazing scenery. And you will have fun at numerous cultural events, music festivals, art exhibitions and holidays.
Gorno-Altaisk, “Belokurikha”
Belokurikha is surrounded on all sides by mountains, so there are no strong winds here, most days of the season are sunny. The resort is ideal for beginners and lovers of a quiet ride; extreme sports enthusiasts and pros may get bored without the trails of a higher level of difficulty with a large difference in altitude. For everyone, sport here is not only about getting emotions, but also about improving the health of the body, since the local air is enriched with useful air ions. “Belokurikha” even received the title of “The largest health resort in Altai.”
In addition to conquering the slopes, other interesting sports activities are offered: trekking, paragliding, sledding, snowbiking, tubing, horse riding, hot air ballooning.
Turkey, Uludag
Uludag is ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers, there are many calm slopes passing through the forest. All trails are wide and well-groomed. After an active day, you can relax in the hot springs, visit a disco or go to one of the elegant restaurants located at the resort. There is also an entertainment center, and professional animators will entertain little athletes.
Not far from the resort is Bursa, a city that was once the capital of the Ottoman Empire and has many interesting sights.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Jahorina
In 1984, the resort hosted the Olympics, and over the past few years the infrastructure has been significantly improved: new slopes have been made, excursion routes have been developed, and the quality of service has been improved. Most of the slopes are red, there are a few black ones, places for freeride and freestyle, there is a training slope for beginners and children.
The resort is located just 30 km from Sarajevo, you can easily get to the city to walk along the ancient streets and mosques. Pale and Mostar are also attractive places to visit, and the medieval fortress of Blagaj and the Orlovac and Mokro Miljačka caves, the latter of which are the longest in Europe, are also nearby.
Bulgaria, Bansko
The resort is located in one of the most beautiful places in southern Bulgaria and is the most modern ski center in the entire Balkans. This is a real alternative to the Alps. There are trails for every taste: from gentle ones for beginners to steep, almost sheer descents. A fun park and halfpipe are equipped for snowboarders.
Be sure to visit the city of Bansko, it is very colorful. Here you can see Thracian graves and many archaeological finds from ancient times, as well as the houses of historical figures. Among other nearby towns, we recommend Melnik, famous for its sand pyramids and winemaking. You can visit several monasteries in Rozhen, Rila, Bychkovo and the ancient city of Plovdiv.
Georgia, Gudauri and Bakuriani
Gudauri is considered the best ski resort in Georgia. The slopes here are wide and open because all the runs are above forest level. Both beginners and experienced riders can ride. For professionals there are slalom, giant slalom, super-giant and downhill tracks, with excellent conditions for freeride. The helicopter will take you to the snow-capped peak and you will descend from it on virgin soil.
In Bakuriani, winter is quite mild with a lot of snow, the average air temperature reaches -6…-7 °C, there are many sunny days, the weather is windless – you will ride for a long time, but you won’t have to freeze. On particularly clear days, the slopes offer a magnificent view of the Caucasus Range and Elbrus.
Not far from Gudauri, see the ancient fortress in the Ananuri region, ride along the Georgian military road to see the Holy Trinity Temple and the majestic Kazbek. In the vicinity of Bakuriani, tourists like to visit the resort town of Borjomi and the ancient cave city of Vardzia.
