These 12 Places To Travel in December in Europe Are Where Holiday Dreams Come Alive

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Are you looking for the best places to travel in December in Europe? If so, you’ve landed in the right place. Europe is well known for being one of the world’s top summer holiday destinations, but it’s just as spectacular in winter when many destinations transform into winter wonderlands.

In December, Europe offers everything, from festive Christmas markets and exciting city breaks to exhilarating skiing trips and last-minute warm-weather getaways. So much so that deciding where to go is challenging. To help you choose where to stay, here are 12 of the best European travel destinations in December. All of these entries offer many things to see and do.

London, England

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London is one of the best places to travel in December in Europe if you’re looking for a city break that offers something for the whole family. The capital of England is an exciting place to visit year-round, but it’s extraordinary in December when the festive season descends. Across the city, you’ll find Christmas markets, winter-themed activities, and dazzling Christmas decorations.

Festive travelers should visit Harrods, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Camden Market, and Oxford Street for the best Christmas shopping, food, and light displays. Away from the festive cheer, visit the city’s best attractions. Highlights include London Dungeons, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the London Eye. A relaxed River Thames cruise is a fantastic way to experience the city.

Prague, Czech Republic

Like London, Prague is at its most beautiful in December when its weaving medieval streets are adorned with Christmas decorations and festive markets pop up across the city. Prague rivals cities like London, Paris, and Rome for romance and beauty, but without the high prices, making it one of the most affordable European city break destinations in December.

In Prague, you’ll likely spend most of your time admiring the impressive architecture and visiting iconic landmarks. Noteworthy points of interest in the city include the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, Prague Astronomical Clock, Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Charles Bridge. You can find Prague’s best Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Travelers searching for a dose of sunshine in December should consider visiting Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands. Situated off the west coast of Northern Africa, this breathtaking winter sun destination experiences temperatures of 72°F (22°C) in December. Better yet, the crowds are often much smaller in winter, so you can enjoy a more relaxed vacation.

Besides its good weather, Tenerife is renowned for its impressive volcanic landscapes, beach resorts, and vibrant nightlife. While you can spend most of your trip relaxing, eating, and drinking, there is much to see on the island. Popular attractions include Playa de las Teresitas, Parque Rural de Anaga, Siam Park, and Mt. Tiede.

Athens, Greece

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Athens is one of the best travel destinations in Europe in December because hardly anyone goes there. In the summer, Athens’ most famous sites are often overcrowded, taking the shine away from a spectacular location. However, the city is much less crowded in December, so you can escape the crowds.

Admittedly, the weather in December in Athens is sometimes blustery and cold, but don’t let that put you off because you’ll feel more comfortable walking around. A big hit with history buffs, there are many fascinating historical attractions in Athens. You don’t want to miss the Acropolis of Athens, the National Archaeological Museum, the Acropolis Museum, and the Panathenaic Stadium.

Bruges, Belgium

If you can’t resist a cozy Christmas city break in Europe this December, plan a trip to Bruges, Belgium, instead. Bruges is one of the most popular European destinations in December, primarily because it hosts multiple Christmas markets, festive events, and winter activities. Needless to say, the city’s scenic canal and vibrant architecture also serve as the perfect Christmas setting.

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The Christmas markets and the Winter Glow Festival are two major highlights of Bruges in December. They offer traditional stalls, ice skating, winter bars, festive shopping, and mesmerizing light displays. Make sure you follow the Light Experience Trail. Christmas events aside, Bruge is also home to several impressive landmarks, including Belfry of Bruges, Basilica of the Holy Blood, and De Burg.

Iceland

Iceland is the perfect December travel destination in Europe for travelers who want to spend their winter vacation exploring the great outdoors. Iceland is a marvelous place to explore year-round, but the wintery weather, Aurora Borealis watching opportunities, and quieter atmosphere add to the island’s already alluring qualities.

While there are Christmas markets to peruse and parties to attend in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, you’ll likely spend most of your time visiting the most famous natural attractions on the island. If you drive along the Iceland Ring Road, you can easily visit iconic locations like Gullfoss, Geysir, Thingvellir National Park, and Hraunfossar. Alternatively, rejuvenate and refresh your mind, body, and soul at the Blue Lagoon.

Rome, Italy

In Rome, the capital of Italy, you can visit world-famous historical landmarks, overindulge in pasta and pizza, people-watch while drinking Aperol Spritz, and explore Christmas markets. We don’t know about you, but that sounds like Europe’s perfect December city break. Rome is a mind-blowing city famed for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class cuisine.

You’ll find famous landmarks at every corner of the city, so you can expect to do plenty of walking. Unmissable attractions in the Italian capital include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. It’s also worth noting that you can take a day trip to the ruins of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Rome. I did this and had an incredible time.

Kraków, Poland

Kraków is considered one of Europe’s best Christmas destinations, making it the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for somewhere festive to stay this December. For starters, it’s common for snow to fall in Kraków in December. You’ll need a big coat, gloves, and a hat because temperatures can drop to 25°F (-4°C).

The Christmas market in Rynek Główny, the main square, perfectly sums up the city at Christmas. You’ll find breathtaking medieval architecture, bright lights, Christmas decorations, and traditional wooden stalls selling arts, crafts, food, and drinks here. Once you’ve perused the Christmas market and drunk plenty of mulled wine, visit the city’s best attractions, such as Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral.

Bergen, Norway

Another excellent place to visit in Europe this December if you seek festive fun and Christmas spirit is Bergen, a beautiful coastal city in Southwestern Norway. In December, Bergen transforms into a winter wonderland with the Gingerbread Town, Festplassen Christmas market, the Festival of Lights, and live entertainment.

Offering fun for all, these festive events will leave a lasting impression. You don’t have to be a festive traveler to enjoy Bergen in December. History buffs can admire the beauty of Bryggen. Food enthusiasts can take in the sights and smells at Bergen Fish Market, and shoppers can do what they do best at the Lagunen Storsenter. Meanwhile, sports lovers could attend a SK Brann soccer match.

Annecy, France

Cheapest Places To Visit in France Annecy — © Santosha57 / Adobe Stock

In December, Annecy’s awe-inspiring natural surroundings can be blanketed in snow, creating the perfect setting for a cozy winter getaway. Annecy is a charming Alpine town in southeastern France best known for its colorful medieval architecture, scenic riverside walkways, and romantic atmosphere.

Its positioning alongside Lake Annecy also makes the town one of the most beautiful places in France. When you’re not enjoying a romantic walk along the Thiou River or getting lost down the town’s narrow cobblestone streets, explore Lake Annecy’s spectacular surroundings. You can also enjoy Annecy’s Christmas activities and events in December, including an ice skating rink, live music, and a Christmas market. What’s not to like?

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is arguably the most magical place in Europe to travel in December, especially if you love all things Christmas. For starters, this winter wonderland is the official home of Santa Claus. In Santa Claus Village, you’ll find extraordinary light displays, quaint Christmas shops, live entertainment, and Santa Claus himself.

Once you’ve visited Santa Claus Village, explore Lapland’s magnificent landscapes. Thrill-seekers can explore the snowy Finnish landscape on a snowmobile or dog sled.

Skiing is also a popular activity in Rovaniemi, while it’s common for the Northern Lights to appear in December. Meanwhile, notable attractions in Rovaniemi include Artikum, Culture House Korundi, Snowman World, and Tiedekeskus Pilke, Metsähallitus.

Interlaken

Interlaken is one of the best places in Europe to visit in December if you seek adventure, blood-pumping activities, and Christmas spirit. While the scent of wood fires, fir trees, and festive treats fills the air, many travelers are drawn to Interlaken by the promise of exhilarating outdoor activities.

Instead of sipping mulled wine, eating bratwurst, and shopping for Christmas gifts, you can ski down snowy mountains, snowshoe scenic hiking trails, kayak on Lake Brienz, and even paraglide above the town. You can also try winter sports like curling and ice skating. We don’t know about you, but that sounds pretty epic. After a busy day of adventure, sit by a fire with a hot chocolate.