When the festive season approaches, travelers often wonder where to travel in Europe in December for a perfect mix of culture, Christmas markets, winter sports, and breathtaking scenery. December is one of the most magical months to explore Europe, with cities glowing under Christmas lights, snowy mountain escapes offering skiing adventures, and warmer southern destinations providing a cozy Mediterranean retreat.
What makes December in Europe so special is the wide variety of travel experiences available. If you dream of sipping hot chocolate while wandering through cobbled medieval streets illuminated by fairy lights, destinations like Vienna, Prague, or Munich will delight you. If your heart longs for thrilling winter sports, the Alps offer some of the best ski resorts in the world. And if you prefer a warmer escape with cultural richness, southern cities like Rome, Barcelona, or Lisbon give you the best of both worlds—milder temperatures and festive celebrations.
In fact, December in Europe provides an unbeatable mix of affordability, festivities, and diversity. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you can design your trip around your style and budget. From luxury lodges in Switzerland to budget-friendly gems in Poland, every type of traveler can find a December getaway that matches their needs. Even major publications like Lonely Planet highlight Europe as one of the world’s most festive continents during the winter season, thanks to its unique blend of culture and tradition.
This guide on Where to Travel in Europe in December will take you deep into the top destinations, hidden gems, price comparisons, personal experiences, and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable winter adventure. By the end, you’ll not only know where to go but also how to make the most of your trip in December.
Table of Contents
- Why Visit Europe in December?
- Where to Travel in Europe in December
- Vienna, Austria
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Rovaniemi, Finland
- Paris, France
- Budapest, Hungary
- Rome, Italy
- London, UK
- Barcelona, Spain
- Munich, Germany
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Winter Sports Destinations in Europe
- Hidden Gems in Europe to Visit in December
- Budget-Friendly Places to Travel in Europe in December
- Personal Packing Tips for Traveling Europe in December
- FAQs About Traveling Europe in December
- External & Internal Links
- Conclusion
- Social Media Posts
Why Visit Europe in December?
- Festive Atmosphere: Christmas markets, decorated streets, and local traditions.
- Winter Sports: Skiing in the Alps, snowboarding, and ice skating.
- Cultural Celebrations: Unique events like St. Nicholas Day in Germany or New Year’s Eve fireworks in London.
- Budget Travel Options: Some destinations are surprisingly affordable during winter.
Top Places to Travel in Europe in December
1. Vienna, Austria – Christmas Market Wonderland
Vienna is often regarded as one of the best answers to where to travel in Europe in December. The city transforms into a fairytale setting with world-famous Christmas markets, classical concerts, and imperial palaces dusted with snow.
- Must-See: Rathausplatz Christmas Market, Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna State Opera.
- Average Prices: Hotel rooms start at €90–€150 per night; Glühwein at markets costs about €4.
- Personal Travel Anecdote: Walking through the Rathausplatz market, sipping warm mulled wine, and listening to local choirs remains one of my most memorable European winter experiences.
2. Prague, Czech Republic – Fairytale Gothic Charm
Prague in December feels like stepping into a snow globe. The Old Town Square Christmas market is one of the most iconic in Europe.
- Highlights: Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square.
- Prices: Budget hotels around €60–€90; hearty Czech meals with beer for less than €12.
- Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best winter photography.
3. Rovaniemi, Finland – Santa Claus Village & Northern Lights
If you’re wondering where to travel in Europe in December with family, Finland is ideal. Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus.
- Experiences: Visit Santa Claus Village, husky sledding, reindeer rides, Northern Lights tours.
- Costs: Luxury lodges start from €200–€400 per night; excursions like husky safaris cost €120+.
- Packing Tip: Thermal clothing is a must; temperatures drop to -20°C.
4. Paris, France – Romantic Winter Escape
Paris shines year-round, but December adds extra sparkle.
- Top Experiences: Eiffel Tower light shows, Louvre visits, Galeries Lafayette Christmas displays.
- Estimated Prices: €150–€250 per night for central hotels; Seine dinner cruise starts at €70.
- Comparison: Compared to Vienna, Paris is more romantic, while Vienna focuses more on tradition.
5. Budapest, Hungary – Affordable Winter Beauty
Budapest combines affordability with rich culture.
- Attractions: Thermal baths, Fisherman’s Bastion, Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square.
- Budget Example: €50–€80 hotels; €15 thermal bath tickets.
- Personal Experience: Soaking in a steaming outdoor thermal bath while snowflakes fall is unforgettable.
6. Rome, Italy – Mild Weather & Festive Spirit
For travelers who dislike extreme cold, Rome is perfect.
- Things to Do: St. Peter’s Basilica Christmas Mass, Vatican tours, Roman Forum walks.
- Average Costs: €100–€180 per night; pizza & wine dinner around €20.
- Packing Tip: A medium jacket is enough; winter here is mild compared to northern Europe.
7. London, UK – Festive Lights & Shopping
London is a must when considering where to travel in Europe in December.
- Highlights: Oxford Street lights, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, New Year’s Eve fireworks.
- Average Costs: Hotels €140–€200; Winter Wonderland rides £5–£10 each.
- Insider Tip: Use the London Pass to save on attractions.
8. Barcelona, Spain – Warmer Mediterranean Vibes
Not all December travel in Europe is about snow. Barcelona offers a unique winter getaway with mild weather.
- Key Attractions: Sagrada Familia, La Rambla, Christmas markets at Fira de Santa Llúcia.
- Costs: €90–€140 hotels; tapas meal with sangria €18–€25.
9. Munich, Germany – Bavarian Christmas Markets
Munich is a perfect German destination for Christmas lovers.
- Must-See: Marienplatz market, Nymphenburg Palace, beer halls.
- Prices: €100–€150 hotels; €10–€15 Bavarian meals.
- Comparison: Munich vs. Vienna – Munich is more rustic and beer-focused, Vienna more imperial.
10. Zurich, Switzerland – Luxury Winter Escape
For travelers with a bigger budget, Zurich offers a mix of skiing and Christmas traditions.
- Things to Do: Lake Zurich cruises, Bahnhofstrasse shopping, skiing day trips.
- Prices: Hotels €200+; ski passes €60–€90 per day.
Winter Sports Destinations in Europe
- French Alps (Chamonix, Val Thorens): World-class skiing, lift passes €50–€70 daily.
- Swiss Alps (Zermatt, St. Moritz): Luxury resorts, Matterhorn views.
- Austrian Alps (Innsbruck, Kitzbühel): Affordable family ski packages.
Hidden Gems in Europe to Visit in December
- Tallinn, Estonia: Medieval Christmas charm.
- Krakow, Poland: Cheap & cultural.
- Ljubljana, Slovenia: Cozy markets and fewer crowds.
Budget-Friendly Places to Travel in Europe in December
- Sofia, Bulgaria: Hotels from €30, meals under €10.
- Warsaw, Poland: Great culture at low cost.
- Porto, Portugal: Mild weather and budget-friendly wine tastings.
Personal Packing Tips for Traveling Europe in December
- Layered clothing (thermal + sweater + jacket).
- Waterproof boots.
- Power bank for long city walks.
- Travel insurance covering winter activities.
FAQs About Where to Travel in Europe in December
Q1: Is December a good time to travel to Europe?
Yes, it’s the most festive month with Christmas markets, cultural celebrations, and winter sports.
Q2: What are the warmest places in Europe in December?
Barcelona, Lisbon, and Rome.
Q3: Cheapest destinations in Europe in December?
Budapest, Krakow, and Sofia.
Q4: Best city for Christmas markets?
Vienna and Prague are top choices.
Q5: Can I see Northern Lights in Europe in December?
Yes, in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland.
External & Internal Links
- Check out best place to travel to in December on budget here
- Learn more about European Christmas markets from European Best Destinations.
Conclusion
If you’ve been wondering where to travel in Europe in December, this guide gives you the ultimate breakdown. From festive capitals like Vienna and Prague to adventurous spots like Rovaniemi in Finland, and even warmer escapes in Barcelona or Rome, December in Europe offers something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling on a budget, seeking luxury, or planning a romantic trip, Europe in December promises unforgettable memories.
