The 7 Best Places to Visit in Europe This December

Europe’s most magical December destinations offer something for every winter traveler. You’ll find festive markets in Strasbourg, Vienna’s imperial Christmas charm, and Salzburg’s alpine beauty without summer crowds. Explore Prague’s Gothic architecture, Nuremberg’s historic Christmas traditions, and Budapest’s rejuvenating thermal baths. For milder temperatures, Malta provides Mediterranean sunshine with cultural treasures. Pack non-slip shoes and arrive early to markets for an authentic experience filled with mulled wine, local treats, and holiday memories.

Good To Know

• Salzburg offers Alpine backdrops and famous Christmas markets with mulled wine, gingerbread, and festive scents alongside Mozart’s cultural heritage.
• Strasbourg hosts Europe’s oldest Christmas market with over 300 wooden chalets and a spectacular 30-meter Christmas tree on Place Kléber.
• Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland with festive markets at Rathausplatz, classical concerts, ice skating opportunities, and iconic coffee houses.
• Budapest provides thermal bath retreats like Széchenyi, festive markets until January 1st, and special New Year’s Eve events along the Danube.
• Malta delivers a mild Mediterranean winter escape with 15-20°C temperatures, UNESCO sites without summer crowds, and traditional presepju nativity displays.

The 7 Best Places to Visit in Europe This December

While many travelers wait for summer to explore Europe, December offers a unique charm as cities transform into winter wonderlands with twinkling lights and festive markets.

The magic comes alive in Salzburg with its alpine backdrop and Sound of Music heritage, while Prague’s Gothic architecture sees fewer crowds than summer months. Vienna’s imperial elegance shines through its coffeehouse culture and musical performances.

Nuremberg boasts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets.

Don’t miss Cologne’s Cathedral market, a UNESCO site with six additional themed zones nearby. Paris dazzles with festive illuminations around iconic landmarks, offering seasonal pastry specialties. Strasbourg offers a quintessential holiday experience with its festive Christmas markets and enchanting holiday ambiance.

For those seeking summer alternatives, Croatia’s party destinations transform coastal towns into vibrant nightlife hubs with beachfront celebrations.

For adventure seekers, Reykjavik provides the perfect base for Northern Lights viewing during December’s long nights.

Strasbourg: Experience Europe’s Oldest Christmas Markets in France’s Enchanting Border City

Situated at the crossroads of French and German cultures, Strasbourg hosts Europe’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas market dating back to 1570. From November 27-December 27, 2025, the UNESCO-listed Grande Île transforms with 300+ wooden chalets spread across 12 themed villages.

Don’t miss the towering 30m Christmas tree on Place Kléber or the eco-friendly Off Market at Place Grimmeissen. Sample authentic Alsatian treats like bredèle cookies, flammekueche, and warming vin chaud. The market celebrates a rich tradition that recreates historical customs while introducing contemporary festive elements each year. While December temperatures may require warm layers, Strasbourg’s festive atmosphere provides a charming alternative to warmer destinations typically sought during winter months.

Visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and use tram lines A/D for easy navigation. Bundle up (temps average 1-6°C) and wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.

Entry is free, though some activities require booking. The markets close early (6PM) on Christmas Eve and Day.

Vienna: Indulge in Imperial Grandeur and Festive Traditions at Austria’s Cultural Hub

With its imperial architecture dusted in snow and classical music filling the air, Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during December. You’ll find the city’s soul at its Christmas markets, particularly the grand Rathausplatz and intimate Spittelberg versions, where you can warm up with traditional Weihnachtspunsch.

Between market visits, explore the magnificent Schönbrunn and Belvedere Palaces or catch a festive concert at the Vienna Philharmonic. Don’t miss St. Stephen’s Cathedral‘s Gothic splendor, especially beautiful during Advent. The atmospheric light classical concerts featuring works by Mozart and Strauss in baroque churches provide a perfect culture during the holiday season.

For an authentic experience, combine cultural visits with local pleasures: ice skating in front of City Hall, relaxing at Therme Wien Oberlaa, or enjoying Viennese coffee culture at Café Central. While Vienna offers winter charm, those seeking warmer adventures can plan ahead for a future visit to Dubrovnik’s top snorkeling spots along Croatia’s stunning coastline. The illuminated city streets create the perfect backdrop for discovering Vienna’s imperial charm.

Salzburg: Discover Mozart’s Baroque Winter Wonderland Nestled in the Alps

Nestled beneath the majestic Alps, Salzburg transforms into a breathtaking baroque winter wonderland come December. You’ll find Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets dotting the snow-dusted Old Town, where the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the crisp air.

Beyond the festive bustle, explore Mozart’s birthplace and the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress offering panoramic views of the snow-blanketed city. For Sound of Music fans, winter tours provide a magical perspective of filming locations without summer crowds. The city’s Fairytale Advent begins in late November, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors with enchanting scenes throughout the season. Many travelers consider Salzburg among the best European destinations to experience authentic holiday traditions.

After strolling through historic streets adorned with twinkling lights, warm up in thermal baths or catch a mesmerizing circus performance at Winterfest. January and February bring heavier snowfall, creating the perfect backdrop for romantic walks through this alpine gem’s baroque splendor.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Alpine Adventures and Bavarian Charm in Germany’s Mountain Paradise

Garmisch-Partenkirchen invites winter travelers with a perfect blend of breathtaking Alpine scenery and authentic Bavarian culture just two hours from Munich. You’ll find Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze, offering spectacular skiing and panoramic views that stretch across four countries.

Wander through the historic twin towns adorned with colorful Lüftlmalerei murals and half-timbered houses before warming up with hearty Bavarian cuisine.

Beyond skiing, you can explore the ice-crusted Partnach Gorge, try cross-country skiing on well-maintained trails, or simply enjoy a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered landscapes. The area boasts several remarkable winter sports destinations including the challenging Kandahar black run for experienced skiers seeking an adrenaline rush.

Day-trippers can visit nearby Neuschwanstein Castle or venture to Innsbruck, Austria, or even consider a longer excursion to Croatia which offers budget-friendly options compared to many other European destinations. December brings charming Christmas markets that showcase local crafts and seasonal treats under twinkling lights.

Malta and Gozo: Mediterranean Winter Escapes With Mild Temperatures and Ancient Wonders

While most of Europe shivers under winter frost, Malta and its sister island Gozo offer a sun-drenched Mediterranean escape with comfortable temperatures that hover between 15-20°C. You’ll enjoy over 190 sunshine hours in December—perfect timing to explore UNESCO-listed megalithic temples and medieval cities without summer crowds. December recorded the brightest day with 193.2 sunshine hours.

Visitor numbers are climbing—nearly 40% of Malta’s travelers ventured to Gozo last December—but you’ll still find great deals on farmhouse rentals and boutique hotels. Don’t miss Valletta’s Christmas markets in Triton Square or the traditional presepju nativity displays throughout both islands.

For unique experiences, catch the harbor fireworks on New Year’s Eve or attend Midnight Mass at St. John’s Co-Cathedral. With clearer winter visibility, boat tours to Blue Grotto and coastal explorations become even more magical. For a continental alternative, consider Zagreb’s charm as another must-visit winter destination with festive markets and rich cultural offerings.

Budapest: Soak in Thermal Baths and Holiday Splendor Along the Danube

As temperatures drop across Europe, Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland where steaming thermal waters provide the perfect antidote to December’s chill. Plan your thermal bath experience wisely – Szechenyi hosts a special New Year’s Eve event (book early!), while Lukacs offers free entry with your Budapest Card.

Between soaks, explore Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica, open until January 1st. For New Year’s Eve, choose between Danube boat cruises or the famous thermal bath parties, both requiring advance booking. The Pre-New Year’s Eve Bath Party at Szechenyi occurs on December 30th with tickets starting at €75 for basic entry including locker access. While enjoying Budapest’s winter festivities, don’t miss trying Cypriot dishes at the international food stalls scattered throughout the markets.

Pack non-slip shoes for icy surroundings and arrive early morning to avoid crowds. With average temperatures hovering around 0-5°C, pairing thermal baths with nearby attractions makes for perfect winter days in this Danube gem.

The Sum Up

Europe’s December magic awaits, whether you’re warming up with glühwein like Dickens’ Christmas Carol characters or finding your own Roman Holiday in Malta’s winter sun. Don’t let budget concerns stop you—hostels, free walking tours, and local markets offer authentic experiences without breaking the bank. Pack your warmest scarf or lightest jacket, depending on your destination. Your perfect winter adventure is calling.