13 Best Places to Visit in Europe in December (2026)

December in Europe? Absolute magic. The best places to visit in Europe in December are more than just illuminated streets; they are truly special. You envision Vienna’s Christmas markets at -2 degrees, the aroma of spiced wine in the air, the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, or the fairytale quality of Prague at 2 degrees.

Here's the thing nobody mentions: December beats summer hands down. Fewer crowds elbowing you for photos. Prices that won't make you cry. Just cosy cafes, actual locals, and cities showing you their real personality instead of the tourist version.

Places to visit in Europe in December give you everything from Lapland's proper -15°C winter (yes, actual Santa) to Barcelona's pleasant 12°C if you're not freezing. Ice skating in Amsterdam, Northern Lights in Tromsø, or just eating ridiculous amounts of gingerbread in Germany, December's got you covered.

And if planning sounds overwhelming, our Europe tour packages handle all the logistics.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Europe?

Short answer: yes, if you like special seasonal experiences.

December weather in Europe varies widely. Northern and central Europe usually see cold temperatures and a chance of snow, while southern destinations like parts of Spain and Greece stay much milder.

Many cities host Christmas markets, festive lights, and holiday events. Winter landscapes can be breathtaking, and crowds are much smaller than in summer, even around popular attractions.

But it helps to understand what to expect:

• Northern and central Europe: Often cold or snowy, perfect for winter vibes, cosy cafes, Christmas markets, and snowy photo ops.
• Southern Europe: Typically milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and still plenty of cultural attractions and festive atmosphere.

The weather in Europe in December can range from freezing in the north to pleasant and cool in the south. Pack layers and a warm jacket for northern cities, but you won’t always need heavy winter gear if you head south.

Best Places to Visit in Europe in December

These cities shine in December with festive events, Christmas markets, winter streetscapes, and legendary charm.

1. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December for fairy‑tale winter vibes. Its medieval buildings and spires look even more magical under a light dusting of snow, and the Old Town Square hosts a lively Christmas market with local treats like trdelník and mulled wine. Prague is often ranked among the top holiday destinations because of its festive spirit and historic charm.

• Places to visit in Prague: Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Wenceslas Square
• Insider tips: Go to the Old Town market early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. Walk the Charles Bridge at sunrise for photos without tourists. Try trdelník from small stalls away from the main square.

2. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is sometimes called the “Capital of Christmas” thanks to one of Europe’s oldest and most famous Strasbourg Christmas markets, Christkindelsmärik. Thousands of lights, festive stalls, and holiday music fill the city’s historic squares. It’s one of the top places to visit in Europe in December if you want an immersive festive atmosphere.

• Places to visit in Strasbourg: Cathedral of Notre Dame, Petite France, Christkindelsmärik Market
• Insider tips: Visit markets on weekdays for fewer people. Climb the cathedral tower for winter city views. Try local Alsatian dishes like tarte flambée and choucroute in small bistros.

3. Riga, Latvia

Riga’s Christmas Market is another must‑see in Europe in December. This Baltic capital fills Dome Square with stalls selling crafts and seasonal food and lights up with a big Christmas light trail that runs through mid‑January. Visitors come for the festive ambience and charming old town views.

• Places to visit in Riga: Dome Square, Riga Old Town, St. Peter’s Church
• Insider tips: Walk the Christmas light trail after dark. Enter St. Peter’s tower for snowy views. Try hot black balsam with honey at a local bar to warm up.

4. Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg becomes a real winter postcard in December. Snow often blankets the city, and festive markets near the cathedral and fortress create an unforgettable atmosphere. Salzburg is a favourite on lists of the Best Places to Visit in Europe in December thanks to its music history, beautiful settings, and seasonal festivities.

• Places to visit in Salzburg: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mozart’s Birthplace, Mirabell Gardens
• Insider tips: Go up to the fortress before sunset for winter views. Visit markets after 8 pm when tour groups leave. Try roasted chestnuts from street vendors near the cathedral.

5. Munich & Nuremberg, Germany

Germany’s Christmas markets are legendary, and Munich and Nuremberg are standouts. Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the world’s most famous Christmas markets, with thousands of visitors each year. Munich also offers festive stalls and local food favourites in its historic squares. These cities are top Europe winter destinations for festive food and holiday spirit.

• Places to visit in Munich & Nuremberg: Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, Nuremberg Old Town, Hauptmarkt
• Insider tips: In Nuremberg, try lebkuchen from family bakeries, not souvenir shops. In Munich, grab gluhwein at smaller neighbourhood markets for better prices and fewer crowds.

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6. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn’s medieval old town looks dreamlike in December, and its Christmas market is consistently ranked among the best places to go in Europe in winter. The whole historic centre becomes a snow‑kissed scene worth exploring. Tallinn is a perfect pick if you want authentic winter charm without overwhelming crowds.

• Places to visit in Tallinn: Town Hall Square, Toompea Hill, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Insider tips: Walk the old town walls for winter views. Visit the market in the evening for lights and atmosphere. Duck into local cafes for hot pastries and strong coffee.

Best European Cities to Visit in December

Some European destinations have festive vibes beyond the Christmas scene, with culture, food, and winter light.

7. Vienna, Austria

Vienna lights up in December with decorated streets, music events, and Christmas markets at Rathausplatz and around the city. The grand architecture looks superb under winter skies, and the city’s coffee houses beckon for warmth and pastries. Vienna is one of the best European cities to visit in December.

• Places to visit in Vienna: Rathausplatz Market, Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Insider tips: Visit markets on weekday afternoons. Warm up in historic cafés like Café Central. Book concerts early, as December shows sell out fast.

8. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens becomes a winter wonderland filled with lights and festive entertainment. The city’s relaxed yet spirited holiday atmosphere makes it one of the best places to go in Europe in winter if you like bright lights and winter fun.

• Places to visit in Copenhagen: Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn Harbour, Stroget Street
• Insider tips: Buy Tivoli tickets online to skip lines. Walk Nyhavn at dusk for winter photos. Try hot chocolate with rum at small cafés for real Danish hygge.

9. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is charming any time of year, but December adds a layer of magic with festive lights, a decorated ice rink, and the dreamy canals reflecting winter hues. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Europe in winter.

• Places to visit in Bruges: Markt Square, Belfry Tower, and Minnewater Lake.
• Insider tips: Climb the Belfry early to avoid queues. Walk the canals at night for quiet charm. Try waffles from small side streets, not the main square stalls.

10. Krakow, Poland

Krakow’s historic main square hosts an appealing Christmas market with traditional foods, crafts, and seasonal cheer. Its architecture and smaller crowds mean you can soak up the atmosphere easily. Krakow is a top place to go in Europe in winter.

• Places to visit in Krakow: Main Market Square, Wawel Castle, Kazimierz District
• Insider tips: Visit the market after dark for atmosphere. Eat pierogi in Kazimierz, where locals go. Walk the square early in the morning for calm winter views.

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Warmest Places in Europe in December

If you’d rather avoid freezing temperatures or snow, Europe still has good options. These are some of the warmest places in Europe in December where sightseeing feels comfortable.

11. Athens, Greece (Mild 15 to 18°C)

Athens is the ultimate place to visit in Greece. Athens enjoys mild winter days, often much warmer than central Europe. December here is pleasant for exploring the Acropolis, ancient neighbourhoods like Plaka, and festive decorations without heavy coats.

• Places to visit in Athens: Acropolis, Plaka, Monastiraki Square
• Insider tips: Go to the Acropolis midday when it’s warmest. Wander Plaka in the evening for lights and food. Try local bakeries for winter sweets like melomakarona.

12. Sicily, Italy (Around 13 to 16°C)

Parts of Sicily, including Palermo and Catania, stay mild in December. You won’t get beach weather, but wandering historic quarters, sampling local food, and enjoying holiday vibes make this a great winter escape. Sicily is one of the best places to travel in Europe in December for a warmer winter escape.

• Places to visit in Sicily: Palermo Cathedral, Catania Old Town, Mount Etna viewpoints
• Insider tips: Visit Etna only with local guides in winter. Eat street food like arancini from small shops. Enjoy city walks in the afternoon when it’s warmest.

13. Larnaca, Cyprus (Comfortable 16 to 18°C)

Larnaca offers some of the mildest winter conditions in Europe with comfortable temperatures and relaxed seaside charm. It’s a wonderful option if you want winter travel without frostbite. Larnaca is a great place to go in Europe in winter if you prefer comfort over snow.

• Places to visit in Larnaca: Finikoudes Beach, Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca Salt Lake
• Insider tips: Walk the beach at sunset for calm views. Visit the Salt Lake early morning for birds. Rent a car to explore the nearby villages easily.

What to Expect from Weather in Europe in December

Europe in December covers a huge range of conditions. Knowing what’s typical will help you pack and plan realistically.

• Northern Europe (Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland)

Expect cold, often snowy weather and short daylight. Temperatures here often sit well below 0°C, especially inland. Snow is common and deep in many places, and daylight can be as little as three to six hours in Scandinavia. This region is also one of the best spots for the Northern Lights.

• Central Europe (Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary)

Winter is real here. Average temperatures usually range from around -5°C to about 5°C. Snowfall is frequent in the mountains and possible even in city centers, though heavy snow isn’t guaranteed every year. Famous Christmas markets, historic streets, and cosy indoor spots make the cold worth it.

• Western Europe (UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands)

Temperatures are generally cold and damp, often between 0°C and 10°C. Rain is common, especially in the UK and Ireland, and snow is possible mainly in higher elevations. Expect more rain and grey skies than heavy snow in big cities like Paris and London.

• Southern Europe (Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyprus)

December is much milder here, with daytime averages from about 10°C up to 16°C. Snow is rare except in high mountains. You’ll find comfortable conditions for sightseeing without winter gear, especially in Mediterranean cities and islands.

• General Patterns Across Europe

Daylight hours are short everywhere compared with summer, typically ending by mid- to late afternoon. Snow is likely in northern and alpine areas, but in many cities, it remains light and intermittent. Rain and wind are common in western coastal regions. Packing layers, waterproof shoes, warm thermal wear, and good gloves and hats are practical travel strategies.

Travel Tips for Europe in December

1. Book hotels early because December is busy in festive cities.
2. Try local winter food: mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and pastries.
3. Use public transport, especially in snow-covered cities.
4. Layering is key (base, mid, waterproof shell), plus warm hats, gloves, scarves, waterproof shoes, and lip balm.
5. Check market dates and opening times. Some markets close before Christmas.
6. Carry gloves, hats, and scarves in snowy destinations.
7. Be aware of potential flight/train schedule changes around holidays.
8. Rain is common in the west and south; snow is likely in the north and mountains.

Final Thoughts

The best places to visit in Europe in December include festive cities, snow-covered towns, mild southern escapes, and fairy-tale villages. From Prague to Larnaca, these destinations offer something for everyone. Whether you are exploring markets, enjoying winter sports, or wandering sunny streets, December travel in Europe is unforgettable.

Europe in December is full of charm, lights, food, and winter magic. These 13 destinations are among the best places to visit in Europe in winter and some of the best places to travel in Europe in December. Explore more with WanderOn.