Best Places to Visit in Europe in December:
A Magical Winter Escape
Europe in December becomes a fairy tale of Christmas lights, Christmas markets, snowy slopes, and city cracklings. From the icy beauty of the north to the warm Mediterranean charm of the south, the continent is a blend of experiences that makes December one of the best months to travel.
Be it a twinkling Christmas market, skiing in the Alps or visiting quaint old towns, there are a limitless number of the best places to visit in Europe in December. This guide will delve into the best cities and regions to visit in Europe during December that promise not just festive fun but also the beauty of nature, which makes them the best destinations in Europe in December.
Why Travel to Europe in December?
The reason why December is a magical month to visit Europe is that before exploring the list of places to visit:
- Festive Spirit: Cities shimmer with Christmas markets, holiday lights and winter festivals.
- Snow Adventures: Snowboarding, hiking and skiing are at their finest in the wintertime.
- Great Deals: Flights and hotels are surprisingly cheap, unless it is during the Christmas week.
- Seasonal Food & Drinks: Mulled wine, gingerbread, Roasted chestnuts and winter stew.
- Unique Atmosphere: Every region has its own take on the December flavor, including snowy fairytales and sunny escapes.
Now, we are going to explore the best places in Europe to visit in December and make your winter trip a memorable one.
13 best places in Europe to go in December
1. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is also among the best places to visit in Europe in December, as it transforms into a winter wonderland with lights glowing all around and Christmas markets. Imperial architecture, warm cafes, and seasonal delights make the capital of Austria one of the best destinations in Europe in December. Vienna is also one of the most romantic December city breaks Europe has to offer, perfect to someone seeking festive charm.
Weather in December: Cold, with an average high of 2°C (36°F) and a low of -2°C (28°F). There can be snowfall, which enhances the magic of the holiday.
Things to do in December:
- Go to Rathausplatz Christmas Market, as it is one of the most popular in Europe.
- See Schönbrunn Palace, which is well-decorated at the time of the year.
- Take a coffee break in old cafes and enjoy Vienna coffee and apple strudel.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague in December is a direct off-the-fairy-tale sheet view of the city with its Gothic towers, cobblestone streets, and jingling squares. It has become among the best places in Europe to visit in December, particularly when you are a tourist who enjoys Christmas markets, pubs, and magical winter experiences. To plan a flight to Prague during this season is a step to enjoying the city in its most magical state, with fewer people around and a slow rhythm that’s ideal to do some cultural sightseeing.
Weather in December: Cold, with highs of about 1°C (34°F) and lows of approximately -3°C (27°F). It gets snowy, which contributes to the beauty of the city.
Things to do in December:
- Visit Prague Castle and Charles Bridge with Christmas lights.
- Go to the Old Town Square Christmas Market.
- Taste Czech mulled wine (svaark) and winter cuisine.
3. Paris, France
During the winter months, Paris is a great place to be due to its festive season in December, which makes it one of the best cities to visit in Europe. Holiday decorations, cafe-like cozy places and world-class museums add to the romantic mood of the City of Light. It is the ideal destination of those who love culture and people who intend to spend memorable December city breaks in Europe. And in case you are wondering about the best things to do in Paris during this magical time, the city is a perfect blend of festive and cultural activities.
Weather in December: The weather is cool, with a high of about 7°C (45°F) and a low of about 3°C (37°F). Sometimes it rains and warm cafes are even more welcoming.
Things to do in December:
- Watch Christmas lights up and down the Champs-Élysée.
- Ice skate at Hôtel de Ville or Tuileries Garden.
- See the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay without summer crowds.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is one of the best places in Europe to visit in December for an adventurous traveller. Iceland is a unique winter experience with its long winter nights, beautiful natural scenery, and the high probability of seeing the Northern Lights.
Weather in December: Cold, with highs around 2°C (36°F) and lows of -2°C (28°F). Expect very short daylight hours.
Things to do in December:
- Night stroll in search of the Northern Lights.
- Take a break in the Blue Lagoon amidst snow.
- Celebrate Icelandic Christmas with the 13 Yule Lads.
5. Rome, Italy
December in Rome presents a warmer European getaway, with a great opportunity to experience history, culture and holiday ambiance without crowds. It is one of the best places to visit in Italy and explore it during winter, and always among the best destinations in Europe in December. Fewer tourists make iconic landmarks even more pleasant and seasonal Italian food contributes to the experience.
Weather in December: Mild with average highs of 12°C (54°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F).
Things to do in December:
- Go to Vatican and watch Christmas Eve Mass.
- Tour the Colosseum and the Roman Forum with fewer crowds.
6. London, England
London in December is lively and festive, and it is one of the best cities in Europe to visit in December. The city boasts of holiday markets, a skating rink, and glittering lights that provide endless seasonal entertainment to tourists. Whether it is a classic landmark or a winter affair, every nook feels magical and all the more so around all the top tourist attractions in London, which receive a holiday make-over during this season.
Weather in December: Cool and wet, with a high of 8°C (46°F) and a low of 3°C (37°F).
Things to do in December:
- Shop in Oxford Street and Covent Garden.
- Ice skate at Somerset House or the Natural History Museum rink.
- See festive performances in the London West End theatres.
7. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a winter wonderland, with beautiful architecture, thermal baths and one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. It is cheap and easy going and one of the best city holidays in Europe in December to be taken by a traveler who wants to be relaxed and get exposed to the city. The city features a plethora of affordable hotels in Budapest, as well, so it may appeal to the budget traveler, who will not have to compromise on comfort or location.
Weather in December: Cold with highs of around 4 C (39 F) and lows of around -1 C (30 F).
Things to do in December:
- Take a bath in Szechenyi Thermal Baths during a cold evening.
- Attend the Christmas market at Vörosmarty Square.
- Have a cruise around the city along the Danube River.
8. Munich, Germany
Munich has renowned Bavarian Christmas markets and Alpine beauty, which is why the city is one of the best destinations in Europe in December. Festive stands, rosy snow, and good food make it a must-have during the holiday.
Weather in December: Cold, high of about 4°C (39°F) and low of -2°C (28°F). Snow is common.
Things to do in December:
- Visit Marienplatz Christmas Market.
- Have mulled wine and pretzels.
- Go on a day trip to the Neuschwanstein Castle in the snow.
9. Alsace, France
Alsace in December is a perfect Christmas card. With some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, this adorable part of France, near the German border, is home to them. Alsace, with its timber-framed houses, picturesque vineyards, and festival decorations, is readily the best places to visit in France in winter, and among the best destinations in Europe in December to find the real winter magic of a holiday.
Weather in December: It is cold, with high temperatures of about 6°C (43°F), and low temperatures of about 0°C (32°F). It might have snow, which compounds the beauty.
Things to do in December:
- Visit Strasbourg, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, its Christkindelsmärik.
- Explore the old town of Colmar in a festive light.
- Sample Alsatian dishes such as mulled wine, pretzels and gingerbread.
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the best places to go in Europe in December as it becomes a comfy and celebratory winter getaway. Natural beauty of canals, great museums, glittering lights, and bustling holiday atmosphere of the city make it a magical combination of pleasure and culture that is incredibly good in winter.
Weather in December: Damp and chilly, with highs around 6°C (43°F) and lows near 2°C (36°F).
Things to do in December:
- The Amsterdam Light Festival.
- Go on a cruise on a canal with holiday decorations.
- See Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.
11. Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is among the best places in Europe to visit in December, with a magical combination of snow-white Alpine landscape, baroque buildings and musical tradition. Being the cradle of Mozart and the birthplace of such classic carols as Silent Night, the city becomes a real winter wonderland in the holidays.
Weather in December: It is cold, with highs of about 3°C (37°F) and lows of around -3°C (27°F). Snow is common.
Things to do in December:
- See Christmas markets and Salzburg Cathedral.
- Go on a winter tour of the “Sound of Music.
- Savour mulled wine and Austrian holiday treats.
12. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is one of the most magical places to go in Europe in December, with its old-world charm, Christmas markets, and its unforgettable Hogmanay festivities. The iconic landmarks of Edinburgh and the bustling holiday spirit it offers will surely leave an indelible mark on visitors who would like to visit the must see places in Scotland during the winter season.
Weather in December: Cold with 6°C (43°F) high and 1°C (34°F) low.
Things to do in December:
- See Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
- Visit the Christmas markets in Princes Street Gardens.
- Stay to Hogmanay, one of the greatest New Year celebrations in the world.
13. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is the ideal mix of festive fun and Alpine beauty, which makes it one of the best cities in Europe to visit in December. It provides a superb combination of culture and winter sports, and provides a portal to some of the best tourist attractions in Switzerland. No Switzerland travel package would be complete without visiting Zurich, be it in holiday markets or on the ski slopes.
Weather in December: It is cold, with a high of 4°C (39°F) and a low of about -1°C (30°F)
Things to do in December:
- Explore the Christkindlimarkt in the main station of Zurich.
- Ski or snowboard in the surrounding Alps.
- Taste Swiss fondue in snug lodges.
Conclusion
Europe in December can offer you snowy fairy-tale holiday escapes, Christmas markets full of energy, or gentle Mediterranean holidays. They include the best places in Europe to visit in December: Vienna and Munich with their festive markets, as well as Paris and the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.
In Europe, cities such as Amsterdam, Budapest and Edinburgh are ideal December city breaks in Europe. On a longer journey, have a snowy adventure in Switzerland or Austria and a warmer visit in Portugal or Italy.
Whichever type of travel you have in mind, December is the month to witness the magic of Europe. European Travel will assist you in designing the ideal winter vacation, so grab your warmest coat and prepare mulled wine, bright lights, and some of the most memorable moments in the best places to visit in Europe in December.
Frequently Asked Questions About Europe in December
1. Which are the best places to visit in Europe in December to see Christmas markets?
There are numerous great places to go in Europe in December during Christmas markets, such as Strasbourg and Colmar (Alsace, France), Vienna (Austria), Munich (Germany), or Prague (Czech Republic). These are cities of magic holiday markets and the spirit of festivity.
2. Where can I see snow in Europe in December?
Popular snow destinations in December are Zurich (Switzerland), Salzburg (Austria), Stockholm (Sweden), and Krakow (Poland). They are ideal spots to have a white Christmas.
3. What are the top December city breaks in Europe?
Paris, London, Amsterdam, Edinburgh and Copenhagen are some of the best December city breaks in Europe. These cities are a mix of cultural sightseeing, festivals and holiday shopping.
4. What are the most suitable locations in Europe to spend the winter holidays in December to enjoy the New Year celebrations?
To experience spectacular New Year celebrations, go to Edinburgh (Hogmanay festival), Berlin (Brandenburg Gate party), Paris (Champs-Elysée fireworks) or London (Thames fireworks display).
5. In December, where should I go skiing in Europe?
The Swiss Alps (Zermatt, St. Moritz), the Austrian resorts (Innsbruck, Kitzbuihel), and the French resort of Chamonix are some of the best destinations in Europe in December. These locations have world-class slopes and breathtaking alpine scenery.
