What makes a destination a good choice for LGBT+ travel in December?

A strong December destination offers comfortable weather, reliable safety, inclusive hospitality and activities that suit both day and night. Many travellers look for places where they can relax, feel welcome and enjoy the season in a way that fits their style.

Are December holidays safe for LGBT+ travellers?

Yes — when you choose destinations with clear protections, visible queer communities and supportive local attitudes. Our tailored holidays highlight places where LGBT+ travellers can feel comfortable from arrival to departure.

Which LGBT Travel Destinations offer the best winter sun in December?

Gran Canaria, Curaçao, Cape Town and Bangkok give warm temperatures, long days and a friendly atmosphere. These destinations work well for travellers who prefer sun over winter chill.

Are there good cold-weather LGBT+ destinations for December?

Absolutely. Cities like Cologne offer festive lights, lively seasonal markets and welcoming nightlife. Some travellers prefer the cosy feel of December rather than chasing heat.

Is December a good time for solo LGBT+ travel?

Yes. December is busy, social and full of opportunities to meet other travellers. Many destinations on this list offer friendly scenes that make solo travel feel safe and easy.

Which December destinations have strong queer nightlife?

Gran Canaria, Cape Town and Bangkok each have energetic, diverse nightlife with bars, clubs and performances that welcome LGBT+ visitors. You can choose relaxed nights or lively events depending on your mood.

Are hotels in these destinations LGBT+ friendly?

Most hotels in the top December destinations offer inclusive service and comfortable stays for LGBT+ guests. When we build your holiday package, we choose properties that reflect your needs and preferences.

How early should I book a December LGBT+ holiday?

December fills quickly, especially in warm and festive destinations. Booking early gives you better hotel options, smoother travel plans and a more personalised itinerary.

What should LGBT+ travellers consider when choosing a destination?

Think about weather, nightlife, local culture and how each place aligns with your comfort levels. It’s also helpful to consider travel time, budget and how active or restful you want your holiday to be.

Can I customise a December LGBT+ trip?

Yes — every holiday can be shaped around your pace, interests and comfort. Whether you want beaches, festive cities, culture or nightlife, we build your trip so it feels easy from start to finish.

LGBT Travel Destinations for December

When winter nights draw in and the UK skies stay grey, many of us crave a holiday that puts warmth back into our days. December often feels like a turning point — a moment when people want either a burst of sunshine or a change of pace that lifts the whole season. If you’re dreaming of bright beaches, cosy city lights or a festive winter atmosphere, there are destinations designed for LGBT+ travellers who want comfort, clarity and a sense of belonging.

That’s why we’re sharing the top five LGBT Travel Destinations to visit in December. These places stand out not just for weather or scenery, but for safety, community and the simple joy of travelling somewhere you can fully relax. Each destination offers a different mood: warm coastlines, welcoming cities, lively queer scenes and pockets of peace for travellers who like things slower. For travellers who love reliable winter sun, you can also explore our full guide to Winter Getaways for LGBT+ Travellers, which highlights more inclusive destinations ideal for the colder months.

Many people use December to reset, reconnect or treat themselves after a busy year. It’s a month where a well-chosen trip can shift your whole outlook. Whether you want to swap scarves for sunshine or trade cold evenings for mulled-wine cheer in a festive square, this list gives you options that feel both exciting and secure.

Gran Canaria is one of the few places in Europe where winter still feels like holiday. The island stays mild through December, giving long sunny days that offer a real escape from UK chill.

For LGBT+ travellers, Gran Canaria isn’t just about the weather — it’s about community, comfort, and celebration. The island is a top pick for gay winter holidays because of its vibrant queer-friendly scene.

What to expect: beaches, bars and staying safe

If you base yourself around the southern seaside towns — like Playa del Inglés or Maspalomas — you’re near everything. Great gay-friendly hotels cater from budget to luxury.

During the day, chill by the sea or wander the dunes. In the evening, dive into nightlife at the world-famous queer hotspot section in the Yumbo Centre — packed with gay bars, clubs, drag shows and a supportive, international vibe.

You’ll find a mix of travellers: couples, friends, solo travellers. The environment feels welcoming and relaxed.

How Gay Friendly is Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria is widely recognised as one of the world’s most LGBTQ-friendly destinations. It offers inclusive hotels and public welcoming of queer travellers.

The Yumbo Centre and surrounding areas bring together a lively queer scene full of variety — from laid-back beach chill to full-on nightlife.

If you want a December getaway that feels like summer — warmth, freedom, fun — Gran Canaria delivers. If Gran Canaria has inspired you, our tailored Gran Canaria travel packages offer ideas, hotels, and inclusive options for planning a warm winter escape.

Why Cape Town works for a December trip

While much of Europe bundles up in coats and scarves, Cape Town basks in summer sunshine. December is summer in South Africa — meaning warm weather, long days, and perfect conditions for beach time, hikes, or city moments.

For LGBT+ travellers, Cape Town offers a blend of natural beauty, urban culture, and a welcoming queer community. It’s one of the most progressive and open cities in Africa for LGBTQ+ people. If the idea of sunshine, Pride and southern-hemisphere summer appeals, our guide to Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride in the Southern Hemisphere explores more destinations that come alive during the UK winter.

What to expect: beaches, culture, nightlife & freedom

You might spend your day wandering beaches, sampling wines nearby, or hiking up scenic viewpoints. The mix of sea, city and mountain creates a backdrop that feels cinematic.

The queer-friendly areas — like De Waterkant, Green Point and Sea Point — host vibrant nightlife, welcoming bars and a community that is used to hosting LGBTQ+ travellers.

For December travellers from the UK, Cape Town offers a complete escape: summer warmth, cultural variety, and inclusion in a place that feels safe and exciting.

How Gay Friendly is Cape Town?

Cape Town is broadly recognised for its queer-friendly culture and legal protections. The atmosphere is relaxed, open and celebratory in many neighbourhoods.

LGBT+ travellers often highlight the sense of freedom they get there — from local acceptance to welcoming hospitality. This makes it a top December pick.

Why Curaçao shines in December

If you want long sunny days, turquoise water and a relaxed island vibe, Curaçao is a December dream. The island sits outside the hurricane belt, so the weather stays calm and warm while much of the Caribbean enters winter. December offers clear skies, warm evenings and a friendly pace that suits LGBT+ travellers who want sunshine without stress.

Many visitors choose Curaçao because it balances beach time with culture. You can wander colourful streets, enjoy local food and swim in bays that feel like hidden gems. It’s ideal if you want December sunshine with a calmer, more intimate feel.

What to expect: beaches, food and community

Curaçao’s beaches feel laid-back and bright. You’ll find soft sand, sheltered coves and plenty of spots that welcome LGBT+ visitors. The island blends Dutch Caribbean culture with a global mix of influences, so the food scene feels vibrant and varied.

December is a great time for snorkelling and exploring offshore reefs. Water is warm, visibility is high and marine life is active around the island. Evenings bring a lively yet gentle scene, with friendly bars, local music and a warm sense of belonging.

How Gay Friendly is Curaçao?

Curaçao is known for being one of the most LGBT+-welcoming islands in the Caribbean. The atmosphere is relaxed, respectful and open across many different areas of the island. You’ll find inclusive hotels, friendly nightlife and a calm, easygoing vibe that lets you travel with confidence.

For travellers wanting safe Caribbean sunshine in December, it remains a reliable choice. You can also learn more about Caribbean inclusivity in our guide to the best LGBT destinations in the Caribbean, which offers insight into islands that welcome LGBT+ travellers year-round.

Why Cologne works for a winter city break

If you love festive lights, warming food and lively city streets, Cologne is a brilliant December option. Its Christmas markets stretch across several central squares, each with its own personality. The city feels cosy, bright and social — ideal for travellers who enjoy atmosphere as much as sightseeing.

Cologne also offers great transport, making it easy to explore at your own pace. December brings chilly weather but the mood is warm, cheerful and full of energy. It’s perfect if you want winter magic without long-haul travel.

What to expect: markets, culture and nightlife

By day, you can hop between Christmas markets, try seasonal treats and browse local crafts. The old town feels charming in winter, and the cathedral area glows beautifully in the evenings.

Cologne has one of the most vibrant queer nightlife scenes in Germany, especially around the Bermuda Triangle area. December nights bring themed parties, friendly bars and welcoming clubs. It’s a great city if you want culture by day and lively options after dark.

How Gay Friendly is Cologne?

Cologne is widely recognised as one of Europe’s most LGBT+-inclusive cities. The queer community is visible, active and supported. Hospitality across the city feels warm and open, making it easy for LGBT+ travellers to explore freely.

If you want a December break filled with festive charm and real community spirit, Cologne is a strong pick.

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December is one of the best months to visit Bangkok. Days are warm, humidity drops, and evenings feel comfortable for exploring food markets, rooftop bars and riverfront walks. Many LGBT+ travellers pick Bangkok because it offers a blend of culture, nightlife and genuine hospitality.

If you want a destination that feels alive from morning to night, Bangkok delivers. It suits solo travellers, couples and groups seeking warmth with a strong sense of place.

What to expect: sights, flavours and rhythm

You can start your day with street-food breakfasts, wander temples, ride the river boats or explore creative neighbourhoods. December weather makes it easier to enjoy Bangkok’s outdoor spaces, from night markets to park strolls.

At night, the city shifts into a new rhythm. You’ll find queer-friendly bars, cabaret venues and lively districts that welcome LGBT+ visitors with ease. Bangkok has a long-standing reputation for inclusivity, and its nightlife offers something for every mood — upbeat, relaxed or celebratory.

How Gay Friendly is Bangkok?

Bangkok is known globally for its warm, open and inclusive approach to LGBT+ visitors. Queer nightlife feels natural in the city, and hospitality is welcoming in many hotels and local venues. The atmosphere encourages freedom, comfort and exploration.

If you want December sunshine mixed with culture, food and a lively queer scene, Bangkok is a strong choice.

"December is one of my favourite months for LGBT+ travel because it gives people choice — real, meaningful choice. You can chase sunshine, lean into festive cities, or try somewhere totally new. What matters most is feeling welcomed and supported when you get there.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we build every trip with that in mind. Safety, comfort and community come first, and then we layer in the fun stuff — the beaches, the food, the culture, the nightlife. December is busy, but it’s also full of opportunity. If a destination speaks to you, we’ll shape the holiday around your style, your pace and your sense of adventure”

Jamie Wake, Managing Director

Booking Protections: How Your Holiday Stays Safe with Wide Awake Holidays

When you book a holiday, you want more than flights and hotels — you want peace of mind. We make sure every LGBT+ traveller feels supported from the moment they contact us until they return home. December is a busy travel month, so strong protection matters even more. For an overview of equality standards across Europe, it may help to review the latest ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map, which tracks legal rights and protections for LGBT+ people.

Your money stays secure

All holiday packages come with full financial protection. This means the money you pay is handled safely and never at risk if something unexpected happens with your trip arrangements. Your payments follow strict security processes, giving you confidence from the start.

You’re protected from the moment you book

Your booking is covered as soon as it’s confirmed. If an issue affects any part of your package, you’re protected under legally recognised systems designed to safeguard holiday payments. This ensures you’re not left out of pocket and that alternative arrangements can be made if needed.

You won’t deal with problems alone

If a delay or disruption occurs, you’ll never be left to sort things out yourself. Our team steps in to manage the situation, communicate with local partners and handle practical arrangements. We’re here throughout your journey, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without stress.

Support built for LGBT+ travellers

We understand the unique needs of LGBT+ travellers, especially in destinations where attitudes vary. You’ll always have clear guidance, honest advice and reliable support tailored to your comfort and safety.

Our approach is simple: secure bookings, transparent information and full support from start to finish.

Planning Your December Trip

December offers more variety than most people expect. Some travellers want warm sea air and bright days. Others want markets, lights and winter charm. A few want faraway escapes with sunshine and a lively queer scene.

Each destination in this guide works differently, yet they all share something important: they welcome LGBT+ travellers with ease. Comfort matters. Safety matters. Feeling understood matters. December becomes much more enjoyable when you travel somewhere that gives you space to relax and just be yourself.

If you’re thinking about a trip, now is a great moment to start planning. Flights fill quickly, hotels tighten availability and the best options often book early. A tailored holiday lets you enjoy the month in a way that fits your needs — whether that’s quiet beaches, late-night energy or festive days out.

Tell us how you travel, what you enjoy and what you want from your December break. We’ll shape a trip that brings it all together smoothly.

You can speak with us directly to start planning your holiday or to get advice on which places suit your style.

📧 reservations@wideawakeholidays.co.uk
🌐 www.wideawakeholidays.co.uk
📞 01495 400947

What makes a destination a good choice for LGBT+ travel in December?
A strong December destination offers comfortable weather, reliable safety, inclusive hospitality and activities that suit both day and night. Many travellers look for places where they can relax, feel welcome and enjoy the season in a way that fits their style.
Are December holidays safe for LGBT+ travellers?
Yes — when you choose destinations with clear protections, visible queer communities and supportive local attitudes. Our tailored holidays highlight places where LGBT+ travellers can feel comfortable from arrival to departure.
Which LGBT Travel Destinations offer the best winter sun in December?
Gran Canaria, Curaçao, Cape Town and Bangkok give warm temperatures, long days and a friendly atmosphere. These destinations work well for travellers who prefer sun over winter chill.
Are there good cold-weather LGBT+ destinations for December?
Absolutely. Cities like Cologne offer festive lights, lively seasonal markets and welcoming nightlife. Some travellers prefer the cosy feel of December rather than chasing heat.
Is December a good time for solo LGBT+ travel?
Yes. December is busy, social and full of opportunities to meet other travellers. Many destinations on this list offer friendly scenes that make solo travel feel safe and easy.
Which December destinations have strong queer nightlife?
Gran Canaria, Cape Town and Bangkok each have energetic, diverse nightlife with bars, clubs and performances that welcome LGBT+ visitors. You can choose relaxed nights or lively events depending on your mood.
Are hotels in these destinations LGBT+ friendly?
Most hotels in the top December destinations offer inclusive service and comfortable stays for LGBT+ guests. When we build your holiday package, we choose properties that reflect your needs and preferences.
How early should I book a December LGBT+ holiday?
December fills quickly, especially in warm and festive destinations. Booking early gives you better hotel options, smoother travel plans and a more personalised itinerary.
What should LGBT+ travellers consider when choosing a destination?
Think about weather, nightlife, local culture and how each place aligns with your comfort levels. It’s also helpful to consider travel time, budget and how active or restful you want your holiday to be.
Can I customise a December LGBT+ trip?
Yes — every holiday can be shaped around your pace, interests and comfort. Whether you want beaches, festive cities, culture or nightlife, we build your trip so it feels easy from start to finish.

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