20 best places to visit in Europe in December (2024)

Looking for the best places to visit in Europe in December? I’ve handpicked the top cities that should be on your Christmas travel bucket list.

Snow-covered villages, half-timbered houses, and the most charming Christmas markets – that’s Europe in December.

There are a ton of great places to visit, but I’ve picked out the most magical winter wonderlands so you’ll experience only the best.

Let’s dig in.

Read next: 27 best European cities for New Years Eve

20 BEST places to visit in Europe in December

Best experiences in Europe in December

Looking for the best experiences in Europe in December? These are some of the best tours:

• Finland: Husky Safari from Rovaniemi (⭐ 4.5/5)
• Germany: Cologne Christmas and Kölsch Beer Tour (⭐ 5/5)
• France: Christmas Market Tour from Colmar (⭐ 4.5/5)

The weather in Europe in December

The weather in Europe in December differs quite a bit from north to south.

While in Northern Europe, temperatures can dip well below freezing, often ranging between -6°C to 3°C (21°F to 37°F), Southern Europe has milder winters with temperatures from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F).

If you’re looking for a warm weather destination in Europe in December, head to the Southern Mediterranean region. You’ll find temperatures from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F).

20 best places to visit in Europe in December

1. Vienna, Austria

In December, Vienna is a go-to destination for two main reasons: Christmas markets and classical music.

The City Hall market is a must-visit where you’ll find crafts and seasonal treats.

And if you’re a music lover, the city’s classical concerts are exceptional. Sit back in St. Peter’s Church while you listen to music from Mozart, Vivaldi, Bach, Schubert, and Beethoven.

🎄 Best tour in December – Christmas Market Vienna Tour (⭐4.5/5)

2. Prague, Czech Republic

In December, Prague really comes to life.

You’ve got the Old Town Square decked out for Christmas, complete with a bustling Christmas market where you can grab some traditional Czech goodies.

And don’t forget about the music. Prague is known for its amazing venues, and they don’t skimp on the holiday concerts.

🎄 Best tour in December – Tour 4 Magical Prague Markets with Locals (⭐5/5)

3. Rovaniemi, Finland

In December, Rovaniemi is basically Santa Claus headquarters. It’s his official hometown, and you can even visit Santa Claus Village to meet the man himself.

But it’s not just about Santa; the place is a winter wonderland for outdoor activities like husky sledding and, if you’re lucky, catching the Northern Lights.

So, if you’ve got kids—or you’re a big kid at heart—Rovaniemi will give you a December experience that’s straight out of a holiday storybook.

🎄 Best tour in December – Husky Safari from Rovaniemi (⭐4.5/5)

4. Tallinn, Estonia

Come December, Tallinn feels like you’ve stepped into a medieval fairy tale.

You’ll find a Christmas market in The Old Town with handcrafted goods and delicious Estonian holiday food.

Plus, the city’s architecture is always an amazing sight no matter the season.

🎄 Best tour in December – Magical Christmas Tour in Tallinn Old Town

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen turns into a cozy holiday spot in December.

The main draw is Tivoli Gardens, which goes all out with its winter setup, including holiday lights and a Christmas market.

Also, we love “hygge“—the Danish concept of coziness—and it really shines through during this month.

You’ll find warm cafes, festive decorations, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere.

🎄 Best tour in December – Christmas Magic in Copenhagen – Walking Tour (⭐5/5)

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

December is one of the best times to catch the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, and the city itself gets into the festive spirit with light installations and Christmas decorations.

You can enjoy traditional Icelandic Christmas meals and even join in on some quirky local traditions.

Just bring your warmest clothes—it’s chilly, but that’s part of the adventure.

🎄 Best tour in December – Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Kerid Volcanic Crater (⭐5/5)

7. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt in December is a winter sports lover’s dream.

We’re talking world-class skiing classes and snowboarding with the Matterhorn as your backdrop.

You can unwind with some Swiss fondue or hot chocolate after a day of adventure.

🎄 Best tour in December – Captivating Christmas Time in Zermatt (⭐5/5)

8. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest in December is like two cities in one, each with its own festive flair.

On the Pest side, you’ve got the famous Christmas markets, especially the one at Vörösmarty Square with crafts and loads of traditional Hungarian food.

Then on the Buda side, you can explore the castle and take in some panoramic views.

And don’t forget about the thermal baths; they’re open year-round, and there’s nothing like soaking in warm water while it’s cold outside.

🎄 Best tour in December – Budapest Christmas Market Tour (⭐5/5)

9. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas” – and for good reason.

The city is home to one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, and it goes all out. Picture wooden stalls selling everything from Alsatian wine to handcrafted ornaments.

The cathedral and the half-timbered houses are all lit up, adding to the festive mood. The local Alsatian food is ALWAYS a highlight, too.

🎄 Best tour in December – Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg (⭐ 4.5/5)

10. Edinburgh, Scotland

If you visit Edinburgh in December, go to the Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens with crafts, food, and rides.

The city is famous for its Hogmanay celebrations—basically, New Year’s Eve taken to another level.

You’ll find street parties, fireworks, and even a torchlight procession.

🎄 Best tour in December – A Local’s Christmas Tour In Edinburgh (⭐5/5)

11. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is famous for its Christmas markets. You’ll actually find several in town, but the one at Gendarmenmarkt is the best.

It’s got artisans, food stalls, and all sorts of holiday performances.

Beyond the markets, you can still catch live music, art shows, and yes, even some clubbing if you’re up for it.

🎄 Best tour in December – Berlin Christmas Markets With Food (⭐5/5)

12. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana in December is an under-the-radar gem!

The city center gets lit up with thousands of lights, creating a cozy and magical atmosphere.

The Christmas market along the Ljubljanica River is a must-visit, with stalls offering local crafts and mulled wine.

🎄 Best tour in December – Magic Christmas Tour in Ljubljana

13. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is where you’ll want to be if you’re after that Christmas vibe but without the big-city rush.

The center square has a solid Christmas market—think Belgian waffles and quality crafts.

And let’s talk hot chocolate. It’s everywhere, and each spot does it a little differently.

🎄 Best tour in December – Christmas Magic in Bruges

14. Colmar, France

Colmar is a fairy tale all year round, but December is special.

It’s got multiple Christmas markets, each with its own vibe, and they’re not just for show. You’ll find local crafts and Alsatian treats that you’ll want to take home.

Also, Colmar is close to other cute little villages that are the epiphany of fairy tales, so it’s the perfect base for visiting magical Christmas markets.

🎄 Best tour in December – Christmas Market Tour from Colmar (⭐ 4.5/5)

15. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Thinking about visiting Amsterdam in December?

Don’t miss the Amsterdam Light Festival; the canals literally light up and it’s a whole different level of festive.

You’ll find Christmas markets, but with a local twist—think Gouda cheese and stroopwafels.

And don’t worry, the world-class museums like the Anne Frank House (⭐ 5/5) and cafes are open as usual.

🎄 Best tour in December – Amsterdam Christmas Tour

16. Cologne, Germany

Cologne in December is all about the Christmas markets, and they don’t do it halfway—the one by the cathedral is a knockout.

You can shop for ornaments, sip on mulled wine, and grab some German eats like bratwurst.

This is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December for sure!

🎄 Best tour in December – Cologne Christmas and Kölsch Beer Tour (⭐5/5)

17. Flensburg, Germany

Flensburg is off the path for most travelers, but it’s magical in December.

The Christmas market is right by the harbor, mixing maritime vibes with holiday traditions. It’s a blend of Danish and German culture, so you get a unique spin on holiday foods and crafts.

Plus, the town’s easy to explore on foot, and the harbor views are a bonus.

🎄 Best tour in December – Flensburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

18. Bergen, Norway

Bergen is famous for its Gingerbread Town, and let me tell you, it’s a must-see – whole buildings made of gingerbread.

On top of that, the Fish Market transforms into a Christmas market, and it’s not just about fish; you’ll find crafts and traditional Norwegian foods.

The setting is pretty dramatic too, with mountains and fjords which you can explore on a fjord cruise.

🎄 Best tour in December – Bergen Walking Tour (⭐5/5)

19. Ilulissat, Greenland

If you’re looking for a unique, off-the-path place in December, head to Ilulissat.

This Greenlandic town offers an arctic holiday that’s next level. Icebergs and the Northern Lights are the main events here, and they’re a sight you won’t forget.

Dog sledding is also on the menu if you’re up for an adventure. It’s cold, no doubt about it, but that’s part of the experience.

🎄 Best tour in December – The best of Ilulissat walking tour

20. Riga, Latvia

Riga is full of fairy tales, so it’s the perfect destination in December!

First off, they say they had the world’s first Christmas tree, so they take the holiday season seriously.

The Old Town market is where you’ll want to be—handmade crafts, good food, and plenty of atmosphere.

🎄 Best tour in December – Riga Old Town and Art Nouveau Tour (⭐5/5)

More posts about Europe you might like

• 20 best places to visit in Europe in November
• 20 best places to visit in Europe in January
• 20 best places to go in Europe in February
• 27 best European cities for New Years
• 55 major landmarks in Europe you should visit

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