Best Places to Visit in Europe in December

December in Europe is a magical time when winter wraps around ancient cities, festive markets light up squares and the festive spirit is in the air. Whether you’re drawn to twinkling Christmas markets, exploring historical wonders or soaking up the last of the sun before winter, Europe has something for every kind of traveller. From snowy streets with holiday lights to southern European shores, this month has the best of both worlds. If you want to get into the seasonal spirit or chase the sun, Europe in December is amazing.

In this guide we’ll take you through the best places to visit in Europe in December. Whether you’re after winter magic or sunny escapes, this list will help you plan your perfect trip.

Contents

1. Budapest
2. Prague
3. Venice
4. Lisbon
5. Barcelona
6. London
7. Szentendre
8. Krakow
9. Edinburgh
10. Pilsen

1. Budapest: A Winter Wonderland with Thermal Baths

Budapest with its grand architecture and thermal baths is a lovely place in December. As winter wraps the city in frost, the Danube River sparkles against the cold backdrop. Budapest’s Christmas markets, especially those in Vörösmarty Square, are full of festive cheer with local crafts and treats. For a more relaxed day visitors can unwind in the city’s famous thermal spas, such as Széchenyi or Gellért, where the warm waters contrast perfectly with the cold outside.

In December Budapest has a special atmosphere with twinkling lights on the streets and Christmas markets selling everything from handmade ornaments to hot mulled wine. Visitors can also take a scenic Danube cruise, which gives a stunning view of the city. Budapest is perfect for cultural exploration and winter relaxation.

Activities: Thermal bath relaxation, visiting festive markets and river cruises.

• Visit Buda Castle and enjoy the views over the city.
• Explore Fisherman’s Bastion for a fairytale like experience.
• Discover the Great Market Hall for local foods.
• Try langos—Hungarian fried bread, perfect for cold weather.
• Take a night Danube cruise to see the city lit up.

2. Prague: A Fairytale City in Snow

Prague in December is like stepping into a fairytale. The cobblestone streets and charming Old Town Square are lined with festive lights and decorations, the city is a winter wonderland. The famous Prague Castle looks especially majestic with a dusting of snow. Visitors can explore the city’s medieval architecture and cozy cafes, perfect for sipping hot drinks as snowflakes fall outside.

In December Prague also has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. From the Old Town Square to the Wenceslas Square, the markets are full of handmade gifts, delicious Trdelník pastries and hot mulled wine. A Vltava River cruise is a romantic way to see the city’s most famous landmarks while taking in the winter scenery.

Activities: Prague’s Christmas markets, cozy cafes and Vltava boat tours.

• Visit Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world.
• Walk across the Charles Bridge at dawn for a peaceful experience.
• Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock striking the hour.
• Try a Czech Pilsner at a local pub.
• Take a Vltava River boat tour to see the city from the water.

3. Venice: The Dreamy City of Canals and Christmas Lights

Venice in December is quieter than in the summer and the Canals of Venice look magical, especially at sunrise or sunset when the mist is over the water. Piazza San Marco is decorated for the holiday season and the air is special as the city prepares for Christmas. While many come for Venice’s history and architecture, December brings the added bonus of fewer tourists and the chance to experience the city in a more intimate way.

Venice is also perfect for those who enjoy a winter gondola ride through the canals. The cooler weather means you can enjoy the city without the summer heat and the Christmas markets have unique gifts and treats. Venice in December feels like a secret, waiting to be discovered.

Activities: Gondola rides, festive markets and Italian food.

• Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
• Walk across the Rialto Bridge—even in winter it’s beautiful.
• Go to the Murano Glass Factory for handmade souvenirs.
• Warm up with a bowl of risotto alla veneta.
• Take a gondola ride along the canals to see the city from the water.

4. Lisbon: Mild Weather and Beautiful Views

If you’re looking for milder weather in December, Lisbon is a great option. The city has relatively warm temperatures compared to other European destinations in winter so it’s perfect for those who want to escape the cold. December in Lisbon is festive with the streets lit up for Christmas and many holiday markets popping up around the city. The Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery look especially beautiful against the winter sky.

A great way to see Lisbon in December is by taking a Tagus River cruise, you’ll get to see the city’s most famous landmarks. The cooler weather also means it’s more comfortable to walk through the picturesque Alfama district or enjoy a sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

Activities: Lisbon is perfect for river cruises, city tours and exploring fado music in local taverns.

• Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a tram ride through the historic Alfama district.
• Try pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts).
• Explore Sintra, a short train ride from Lisbon, for castles and gardens.
• Take a Tagus River cruise to see the city from the water.

5. Barcelona: Mild Mediterranean Escape

Barcelona is a great December destination if you want to escape the cold without leaving Europe. While the temperatures are cooler than in summer, they’re still milder than in other European cities. December brings a festive atmosphere to La Rambla and Plaça de Catalunya, with Christmas lights and decorations. The Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are less crowded this time of year so you can enjoy them more relaxed.

Barcelona’s Mediterranean coast is also great for those who want to enjoy a cruise dinner tour or a seaside walk without the summer crowds. December is perfect for the city’s art scene, from Gaudí’s masterpieces to the works in the Museu Picasso.

Activities: Barcelona is perfect for architecture, seaside strolls and boat cruises along the coast.

• Visit the stunning Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
• Take a bike tour to explore the city’s neighborhoods.
• Relax at the Barceloneta Beach, even in winter.
• Try Spanish tapas in local taverns.
• Take a Mediterranean cruise from the port.

6. London: A Winter Wonderland with Festive Cheer

London in December is one of the most festive cities in Europe, with Christmas lights on Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Regent Street. You can visit some of the world’s best museums and galleries, like the British Museum and Tate Modern, before heading out to enjoy the winter fun. Ice skating at Somerset House or Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is a must if you want to get into the holiday spirit.

The Thames River cruises are also a great way to see the city’s landmarks while enjoying the winter atmosphere. Whether you want to shop at Harrods or visit the Christmas markets, London is a must-visit destination for those who love winter.

Activities: London is perfect for festive markets, ice skating and sightseeing from the river.

• Take a ride on the London Eye for city views.
• Shop at the famous Harrods department store.
• Visit Covent Garden for Christmas lights and performances.
• Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in a café.
• Explore the Tate Modern for contemporary art exhibitions.

7. Szentendre: A Hungarian Gem

Szentendre is a small town near Budapest, perfect for a quiet December getaway. The town is famous for its cobblestone streets with colorful houses and art galleries. In December Szentendre’s Christmas market adds to the already magical atmosphere. The Kraft Art Shop has handcrafted gifts so it’s a great place to find unique souvenirs.

The town is close to Budapest so you can visit both in one trip. Whether you walk through its streets or visit the Szentendre Open-Air Museum, this small town has a warm and cozy feeling perfect for December.

Activities: Szentendre is great for local art, markets and historical landmarks.

• Visit the Szentendre Open-Air Museum to learn about Hungarian culture.
• Walk through the Main Square.
• Visit the Czobel Museum for Hungarian art exhibitions.
• Explore the town’s many art galleries.
• Try the famous Hungarian chimney cake at the market.

8. Krakow: A Winter Escape with History and Charm

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in December. The Main Market Square is decorated for Christmas and the Wawel Castle looks even more stunning in winter. The city’s Christmas market is a must-see with local crafts, traditional food and hot mulled wine.

You can also take a winter walk through Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter, or visit Auschwitz-Birkenau which is very moving. Krakow has history, culture and winter magic in December.

Activities: Krakow is great for historical sites, winter walks and Christmas markets.

• Visit the historic Wawel Castle and Royal Cathedral.
• Take a walk through the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz.
• Visit the moving Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
• Try zapiekanka, a Polish street food.
• Explore the St. Mary’s Basilica and hear the famous trumpet call.

9. Edinburgh: A Scottish Christmas

Edinburgh comes alive in December with its Christmas markets and Winter Festivals. The city’s medieval architecture looks magical when covered in snow, especially around the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Visitors can ice skate, shop for tartans and cashmere and join in traditional Scottish celebrations.

Edinburgh’s festive lights create a lovely atmosphere for a holiday break. If you like winter sports the Edinburgh Christmas Market is the perfect place to try Scottish treats like shortbread and haggis.

Activities: Edinburgh is great for Christmas markets, historic tours and festive atmosphere.

• Visit Edinburgh Castle for city views.
• Walk down the Royal Mile for festive shopping.
• Enjoy Scottish shortbread at a café.
• Take a ghost tour of Edinburgh’s streets.
• Try a whisky tasting at a local distillery.

10. Pilsen: The Birthplace of Pilsner Beer

Pilsen is a hidden gem in the Czech Republic but a great December destination for history and beer lovers. The city’s historic center is perfect for winter wandering, with Christmas markets selling everything from handmade goods to Czech pastries. But the real draw is Pilsen’s history as the birthplace of Pilsner beer.

December visitors can tour the Pilsner Urquell Brewery and learn about the brewing process. Whether you’re eating a hearty Czech meal or sipping a cold Pilsner, Pilsen is a unique December experience.

Activities: Pilsen is great for brewery tours, historical walks and Czech food and beer.

• Visit the Pilsner Urquell Brewery for a tour.
• Explore St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece.
• Walk through the Pilsen Old Town.
• Try svíčková, a Czech beef dish, at a tavern.
• Visit the Great Synagogue, one of Europe’s largest.

Whether you like the festive lights of northern Europe or the Mediterranean sun, December has it all. From the culture of Prague and Budapest to the laid-back vibe of Barcelona and Lisbon, Europe has something for everyone. The holiday season adds an extra sprinkle of magic so it’s the perfect time to visit Europe’s most beautiful cities. Don’t forget to take a boat ride on the Danube, Vltava or the Mediterranean to make your winter travels even more special.

Enjoy Europe in December. There’s something for everyone, winter wonderland or sea side escape.