Best Places to Visit in Europe in December

Known For : Vienna City Hall Austrian Parliament Building Museums Quartier

December in Vienna is a fairytale come to life. The city's grand architecture is draped in festive lights, and Christmas markets like those at Rathausplatz are a must-see. Enjoy sipping mulled wine (Glühwein) while strolling through the magical holiday ambiance, with the sound of carolers in the air. Don’t miss the ice skating at City Hall or the classical concerts that fill the crisp winter air.

Best Time: May to October

49 Vienna Attractions

Known For : Prague Castle Charles Bridge Old Town Square Prague

December transforms Prague into a winter wonderland, with its cobblestone streets dusted in snow and Christmas markets filling the air with festive cheer. Wander through the Old Town Square, sip hot mulled wine, and take in the fairy-tale vibes with the Gothic backdrop. The Charles Bridge, often covered in snow, offers a picturesque view of the city’s medieval charm.

Best Time: April to October

48 Prague Attractions

Known For : Old Town Innsbruck Golden Roof Ambras Castle

For winter lovers, Innsbruck is the ultimate alpine destination. Nestled in the Austrian Alps, this charming city offers world-class skiing and stunning mountain views. Even if you’re not into skiing, the medieval old town and Christmas markets, along with the sparkling Swarovski Crystal Worlds, are enough to make this a dreamy December getaway.

Best Time: June - September

15 Attractions

Known For : Tivoli Gardens Amalienborg Palace Little Mermaid statue

Known for its cozy hygge lifestyle, Copenhagen in December invites you to enjoy the warmth of Danish hospitality. The Tivoli Gardens, adorned with millions of Christmas lights, offer a magical fairground experience. Cozy up in a café with Danish pastries or explore the beautifully decorated streets of Nyhavn, all while experiencing the city’s winter wonderland.

Best Time: May to September

34 Copenhagen Attractions

Known For : Castle Hill Budapest Fisherman's Bastion St. Stephen's Basilica

Winter in Budapest is a contrast of cold weather and warm, steamy thermal baths. The Christmas markets are lively, filled with local crafts and delicious treats, while the thermal baths provide the perfect retreat from the chill. Don’t miss a scenic cruise on the Danube, where the city’s grand architecture sparkles under festive lights.

Best Time: March to October

46 Budapest Attractions

Known For : Notre Dame de Strasbourg La Petite France Parc de l'Orangerie

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg offers one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets. The city’s half-timbered houses are adorned with twinkling lights, and the scent of spiced wine fills the air. Explore the charming streets, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy traditional Alsatian holiday treats.

Best Time: May - September

18 Attractions

Known For : Chapel Bridge Spreuer Bridge Lake Lucerne

Lucerne is a picture-perfect winter destination, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The charming old town, adorned with festive decorations, invites you to explore its narrow streets. Whether you take a cruise on Lake Lucerne or visit the nearby mountains, Lucerne offers the perfect winter escape for relaxation and scenic beauty.

Best Time: Throughout the year

21 Lucerne Attractions

Known For : Reichstag Brandenburg Gate Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

December in Berlin means over 60 Christmas markets, each offering a unique experience. From the classic festive vibes at Gendarmenmarkt to quirky, artsy markets, you’ll find something for every taste. Sip on mulled wine and explore the city's vibrant history while enjoying live performances, unique gifts, and cozy food stalls.

Best Time: May to September

35 Berlin Attractions

Known For : Markt Bruges Belfry of Bruges Burg Square

Bruges in December looks like a scene from a Christmas card, with cobblestone streets and canals lined with twinkling lights. Warm up with a cup of rich Belgian hot chocolate in the historic Craenenburg Café and explore the medieval architecture of this beautifully preserved city. Bruges’ Christmas markets add a magical touch to this already enchanting destination.

Best Time: June to August

38 Bruges Attractions

Known For : St. Mark's Square St. Mark's Basilica Grand Canal

Venice in December is quieter and more serene, offering a unique opportunity to explore without the summer crowds. Wander through misty canals and admire the Venetian architecture under a soft winter light. Enjoy traditional Venetian treats, such as fritelle (sweet pastries), while cozying up in the city's historic cafés.

Best Time: April to October

42 Venice Attractions

Known as the gateway to the fjords, Bergen looks even more magical in winter, with snow-dusted mountains and crystal-clear waters. The Christmas market adds a festive touch to this picturesque city, and the colorful buildings along the Bryggen wharf make for a perfect winter photo opportunity.

Best Time: June - August

Lake Bled is transformed into a winter paradise, with snow-covered peaks reflecting off the icy waters. Visit the medieval Bled Castle for a view over the frozen lake, or enjoy a peaceful walk around the water. The charming Christmas market and nearby winter activities make it an ideal winter destination.

Tallinn is a charming medieval city that’s even more enchanting under a layer of snow. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is especially beautiful in winter, with festive decorations and traditional Christmas markets. Warm up with mulled wine and explore the cozy cafés and boutiques.

Best Time: June - August

Known For : Old Town Salzburg Getreidegasse Hohensalzburg Fortress

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is enchanting during December. The city is beautifully adorned with Christmas lights, and the Christmas market in the historic old town is a must-visit. Enjoy a traditional Austrian meal and explore the snow-covered streets that inspired the film The Sound of Music.

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Salzburg Attractions

Known For : Tower of London British Museum London Eye

London in December is nothing short of magical, with the city’s iconic landmarks draped in festive lights and decorations. The holiday season transforms places like Oxford Street and Covent Garden into winter wonderlands, complete with sparkling lights and bustling Christmas markets. Ice skating at Somerset House or Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a must, while cozy pubs and afternoon teas offer the perfect way to warm up.

Best Time: April to September

56 London Attractions

Known For : Harder Kulm Paragliding in Interlaken Jungfraujoch

Known for its adventure sports, Interlaken offers a unique winter experience. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding, or try paragliding over the snow-capped Swiss Alps. The town’s proximity to both lakes and mountains makes it a perfect destination for winter sports and outdoor adventures.

Best Time: June - September, December - March

20 Attractions

Known For : Old Town Zurich Lindenhof Bahnhofstrasse

Zurich is stunning in winter, with the snow-covered Alps as a backdrop to the city’s festive celebrations. Visit the famous Christmas market at the main train station, where you can shop for unique gifts and enjoy Swiss chocolate. The nearby mountains also offer skiing and snowboarding for winter sports enthusiasts.

Best Time: May to September

39 Zurich Attractions

Known For : Santa Claus Village Northern Lights in Lapland Ice Hotel Stay in Lapland

December in Lapland is like stepping into a real-life winter wonderland. Known as the official home of Santa Claus, this northern region offers a truly magical experience, especially for families. You can visit Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi, enjoy husky sledding through snowy forests, or embark on a Northern Lights safari for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The vast, snowy landscapes are perfect for winter activities, and staying in unique accommodations like glass igloos allows you to stargaze or watch the aurora borealis from the comfort of your bed.

Best Time: December - March

19 Lapland Attractions

Known For : Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Old Town Holyrood Palace

Edinburgh in December is a magical experience, with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and festive lights illuminating the historic city. Take a walk along the Royal Mile, explore the castle, and indulge in traditional Scottish fare at a cozy pub. Don’t miss the New Year’s Hogmanay festival for an unforgettable celebration.

Best Time: May to August

22 Edinburgh Attractions

Grindelwald is an alpine village in the heart of the Jungfrau region and is ideal for active winter holidays. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, or trying out the world’s longest toboggan run, Grindelwald offers the perfect winter adventure. The charming village is cozy, and the surrounding mountains create a dramatic winter landscape.

Best Time: June - September, December - March

Embrace the Christmas spirit in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. The city is filled with snow and offers activities like husky sledging, reindeer rides, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. For a truly unique experience, stay in a glass igloo and watch the aurora borealis from your bed.

Best Time: June - August, December - February

Known For : Royal Palace of Madrid Almudena Cathedral The Sun's Gate

Madrid offers a warm and festive December, with Christmas markets and spectacular holiday lights illuminating the city. The Plaza Mayor Christmas market is perfect for buying unique gifts, while the holiday celebrations culminate in the Three Kings Parade on January 5.

Best Time: March to early October

29 Madrid Attractions

Known For : Rijksmuseum Van Gogh Museum Anne Frank House

Amsterdam in December, shines with festive lights lining its canals and a cozy atmosphere in its cafés. The Amsterdam Light Festival adds to the city’s magic, with light installations scattered around the city. Take a winter canal cruise, visit museums, or enjoy a warming Dutch pancake.

Best Time: March to September

47 Amsterdam Attractions

At the foot of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is a stunning winter destination for those seeking adventure and alpine beauty. Skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering are popular activities, but the town’s charm extends beyond winter sports. Enjoy a delicious fondue in a cozy restaurant or relax with views of the towering peaks.

Known For : The Colosseum Roman Forum Pantheon Rome

December in Rome means fewer crowds and a festive atmosphere. Explore iconic sights like the Colosseum and Vatican City without the usual hustle and bustle. Enjoy a taste of traditional Italian holiday food, including panettone and roasted chestnuts, while admiring the beautiful Christmas lights scattered across the city.

Best Time: April to early-November

56 Rome Attractions

Known For : Teide National Park Anaga Rural Park Siam Park

Escape the cold in Tenerife, where temperatures hover around a pleasant 70°F. This Canary Island is perfect for a sunny winter getaway, offering volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches. With fewer tourists and relaxed vibes, you can enjoy the natural beauty, hike Mount Teide, or simply bask in the sun on a tranquil beach.

Best Time: Throughout the year

31 Tenerife Attractions