Believe it or not, December is one of the best months of the year to travel. Among the cities to visit in December without leaving Europe, you can find those with milder temperatures for relaxation, as well as some where you can breathe in the Christmas atmosphere at every corner. With such a wide range of options within the continent, the challenge will be choosing among the December holiday destinations that we’re going to suggest.
Best Winter Destinations in Europe to Visit
Whether you’re looking for a destination to unwind and relax, interested in cultural tourism, or wanting to embrace the Christmas spirit, Europe truly shines during this time of year. A magical place to enjoy castles, palaces, or charming markets for a getaway. Here we show you some of the best European destinations to go to in December.
Alsace (France)
The French region of Alsace is one of the best places to visit in December. It boasts one of the continent’s richest traditions of Christmas markets. Yet, it offers more than that, with its surroundings of mountainous landscapes and fairytale-like villages filled with colorful houses, making it the perfect place to kick off the Christmas season. We assure you won’t be able to resist its numerous artisanal markets, so make sure to bring a backpack with plenty of space for whatever you decide to buy.
Scotland (United Kingdom)
Scotland is a magical place throughout the year, but in December, it takes on a very special spirit. From the ancient streets of Edinburgh adorned with small Christmas lights to the beaches on the east coast, the beauty of this northern region will leave you speechless. Take advantage of your visit to enjoy its seafood, take one of the routes through the Cairngorms following the reindeer path, or relax by the fire in one of the accommodations found in the well-known Inverness.
Cologne (Germany)
If you love Christmas, you can’t go wrong with Cologne. It’s one of the best winter destinations in Europe to marvel at its architecture and wander through Christmas markets, trying street foods like currywurst or warming up with its delicious glühwein (hot spiced wine). Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Venice (Italy)
Considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy, the city of canals is usually associated with the summer and high temperatures. However, Venice shines far beyond the summer, offering streets covered in a soft mist that invites you to take refuge in one of its many cafés to enjoy an authentic espresso for warmth. Moreover, visiting the city in December allows you to appreciate its architecture and the charm of its streets without bumping into crowds of tourists, allowing you to fully appreciate it.
Malaga (Spain)
Like Venice, the Costa del Sol is often associated with summer, but a city like Malaga is a safe bet at any time of the year. It not only offers the opportunity to enjoy its cultural offerings with museums like Picasso, Carmen Thyssen, or the Centre Pompidou but also fills places as iconic as Calle Larios with lights, welcoming Christmas and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the whole family.
Other Winter Holiday Destinations
These December holiday destinations are not the only ones you can visit before bidding farewell to the year in the continent. Without leaving Europe, it’s also possible to find other ideal cities to explore and experience, whether alone or accompanied. Europe never ceases to amaze.
The first one is Vienna (Austria), an elegant city and one of the great cultural capitals of Europe. Known for its musical tradition and delicious culinary examples like the Sacher torte, its museum district and the Hofburg Palace, which was the residence of Empress Sissi, are two must-visit places if you choose the Austrian capital as your destination.
Our last option is the Czech capital, Prague. The city not only maintains its essence and historical architecture but is also home to Europe’s oldest astronomical clock, dating back to the 15th century. Additionally, you can find numerous museums, including one dedicated to the Art Nouveau master, Alphonse Mucha. If you have enough time during your trip, don’t forget to visit the Karlovy Vary spa for a day of relaxation in its thermal waters.
