When December arrives, Europe transforms into a glittering wonderland, with twinkling lights adorning every corner, festive markets bustling with holiday cheer, and quaint towns blanketed in snow. For many travelers, the allure of a European winter vacation lies in this promise of cozy atmospheres, deeply rooted traditions, and the undeniable charm of centuries-old cities and villages. As the holiday season approaches, Europe becomes a magical destination that draws visitors eager to experience the warmth and wonder of the season. In this article, I’ll take you through seven of the coziest European destinations to visit this December, where every cobblestone street and festive market stall offers a piece of that winter magic. Let’s dive into these enchanting places, each with its unique blend of history, culture, and undeniable festive spirit, all supported by the facts and figures that make them truly special.
Characteristics of Cozy European Destinations in December
A quintessential cozy European destination in December is characterized by its snow-covered streets, warm and inviting local traditions, and a festive atmosphere that feels intimate despite the crowds. These destinations are often small towns or historic cities where time seems to stand still, allowing visitors to lose themselves in the beauty of the season. For example, Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is renowned for its fairy-tale architecture, and in December, it transforms into an ethereal winter paradise. The average temperature in December hovers around 1°C (34°F), and the city often experiences light snow, dusting the St. Vitus Cathedral and the famous Charles Bridge with a magical white coat. The Old Town Square becomes the heart of the city’s festivities, with its iconic Christmas market drawing visitors with the smell of mulled wine (glühwein) and the sound of traditional Czech carols.
For more information on Prague’s tourism, contact:
– Prague City Tourism
– Address: Arbesovo nám. 70/4, 150 00 Praha-Smíchov, Czech Republic
– Phone: +420 221 714 714
– Email: info@prague.eu
– Official Website
Similarly, Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace of Mozart, exudes a festive spirit in December that is almost palpable. The city’s average December temperature of -1°C (30°F) adds to the wintry charm, especially when snow blankets the baroque buildings. The Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the city’s rooftops dusted with snow, while the Salzburg Christmas Market at the Cathedral Square (Domplatz) invites visitors to indulge in traditional Austrian treats like lebkuchen and roasted chestnuts. With over 70 stalls, this market has been a tradition since the 15th century, attracting nearly one million visitors each year.
For further details on Salzburg, you can reach:
– Salzburg Tourism
– Address: Auerspergstraße 6, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
– Phone: +43 662 88987-0
– Email: info@salzburg.info
– Official Website
Bruges, Belgium, is another city that epitomizes cozy European charm in December. Known for its medieval architecture and winding canals, Bruges becomes a winter wonderland when illuminated by twinkling lights and decorated with festive garlands. The city’s Grote Markt square hosts a charming Christmas market, where visitors can sip Belgian hot chocolate while browsing through stalls offering handmade crafts. The average temperature in Bruges in December is about 4°C (39°F), with occasional snowfall that adds to the town’s enchanting atmosphere. The city’s narrow, cobblestone streets and medieval buildings create a cozy, intimate environment that feels like stepping back in time.
For tourist information in Bruges, contact:
– Visit Bruges
– Address: Burg 11, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
– Phone: +32 50 44 86 86
– Email: toerisme@brugge.be
– Official Website
For those seeking a more secluded and intimate experience, Hallstatt in Austria and Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany provide peaceful retreats with fewer crowds. Hallstatt, a small village nestled in the Austrian Alps by Lake Hallstatt, offers a serene escape where the snow-covered mountains reflect in the clear, icy waters of the lake. The village, with a population of just over 750, sees a sharp drop in visitors in December compared to the summer months, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility. The average temperature here in December is around -2°C (28°F), and snowfall is common, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a postcard.
For more information on Hallstatt, contact:
– Tourismusverband Inneres Salzkammergut
– Address: Seestraße 99, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria
– Phone: +43 5 950950
– Email: info@dachstein.salzkammergut.at
– Official Website
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, located along Germany’s Romantic Road, is a medieval town that feels like it has been preserved in amber. The town’s half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets are particularly charming in December, especially during the Reiterlesmarkt, Rothenburg’s traditional Christmas market. With temperatures around 2°C (36°F) in December, the town often experiences frost, giving the historic buildings a shimmering, icy sheen. The market, which dates back to the 15th century, is a highlight of the season, offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to glühwein served in festive mugs.
For Rothenburg tourist information, reach out to:
– Rothenburg Tourismus Service
– Address: Marktplatz 2, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
– Phone: +49 9861 404800
– Email: info@rothenburg.de
– Official Website
These destinations not only offer cozy atmospheres and festive cheer but are also steeped in history and tradition, making them perfect for a magical winter getaway.
Must-See European Christmas Markets
European Christmas markets are more than just places to shop—they are cultural experiences that capture the essence of the holiday season. These markets, often set against the backdrop of historic buildings, offer a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. Among the most iconic Christmas markets in Europe are those in Vienna, Nuremberg, and Strasbourg.
Vienna, Austria, hosts one of the grandest Christmas markets in Europe at Rathausplatz, in front of the city’s neo-Gothic town hall. With over 150 stalls, the Vienna Christmas Market draws millions of visitors each year, offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to Sachertorte (a famous Viennese chocolate cake). The market is also known for its ice skating rink, which covers an area of over 8,500 square meters (91,500 square feet), making it one of the largest in Europe. The city itself sees average temperatures of 1°C (34°F) in December, often with light snowfall that enhances the festive atmosphere.
For visitor information on Vienna:
– Vienna Tourist Board
– Address: Invalidenstraße 6, 1030 Wien, Austria
– Phone: +43 1 24 555
– Email: info@wien.info
– Official Website
Nuremberg, Germany, is home to the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt, which dates back to 1628. Held in the city’s main square, this market features over 180 wooden stalls, each draped in red-and-white cloth, selling traditional goods such as Nuremberg Lebkuchen (gingerbread), hand-carved Christmas decorations, and mulled wine. The market attracts more than two million visitors annually, contributing significantly to the local economy. Nuremberg’s average temperature in December is around 2°C (36°F), and the market is often accompanied by the soft glow of Christmas lights reflecting off the snow-covered streets.
For more information about Nuremberg’s Christmas Market, contact:
– Congress- und Tourismus-Zentrale Nürnberg
– Address: Frauentorgraben 3, 90443 Nürnberg, Germany
– Phone: +49 911 23360
– Email: info@ctz-nuernberg.de
– Official Website
In Strasbourg, France, the Christkindelsmärik is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s market spreads across 11 different locations in the city, with over 300 stalls offering Alsatian specialties such as bredele (Christmas cookies) and vin chaud. The centerpiece of the market is the towering Christmas tree in Place Kléber, which stands over 30 meters (98 feet) tall and is adorned with thousands of lights. Strasbourg’s average December temperature is around 3°C (37°F), with a festive atmosphere that draws more than two million visitors each year.
For Strasbourg visitor information, contact:
– Office de Tourisme de Strasbourg et sa Région
– Address: 17 Place de la Cathédrale, 67082 Strasbourg Cedex, France
–
Phone: +33 3 88 52 28 28
– Email: info@visitstrasbourg.fr
– Official Website
Beyond these famous markets, there are also hidden gems worth exploring. The Tallinn Christmas Market in Estonia, for example, is set in the medieval Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square) and features a Christmas tree tradition dating back to 1441. The market is small, with about 60 stalls, but it offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere where visitors can enjoy traditional Estonian dishes like piparkoogid (gingerbread) and verivorst (blood sausage). The average temperature in Tallinn in December is a chilly -2°C (28°F), often accompanied by snow that adds to the market’s charm.
For more information on Tallinn, contact:
– Tallinn Tourist Information Centre
– Address: Niguliste 2, 10146 Tallinn, Estonia
– Phone: +372 645 7777
– Email: visit@tallinn.ee
– Official Website
In the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi, Finland, offers a truly unique Christmas experience as the “official” home of Santa Claus. The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a must-visit for families, with attractions like reindeer rides, visits to Santa’s workshop, and the opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle, which is clearly marked by a white line on the ground. The village’s Christmas market offers Lapland handicrafts, and the average temperature in Rovaniemi in December is a frigid -8°C (18°F), ensuring a snow-covered landscape that feels like stepping into a winter fairy tale.
For further details on visiting Rovaniemi, contact:
– Visit Rovaniemi
– Address: Maakuntakatu 29-31, 96200 Rovaniemi, Finland
– Phone: +358 16 346 270
– Email: info@visitrovaniemi.fi
– Official Website
These markets are not just places to shop—they are cultural landmarks that offer a glimpse into Europe’s rich holiday traditions. Whether you’re wandering through the grand market of Vienna, exploring the historic stalls of Nuremberg, or experiencing the magic of Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi, each market provides a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.
Snow-Filled December Destinations in Europe
For those dreaming of a white December, Europe offers a variety of destinations where snow is almost guaranteed to blanket the landscape, creating a winter wonderland perfect for both adventure and relaxation. The Swiss Alps, Norwegian fjords, and Lapland, Finland, are among the top spots to experience a snow-filled December in Europe.
The Swiss Alps are synonymous with winter sports, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. Resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier attract visitors from around the globe with their pristine slopes, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views. Zermatt, located at the foot of the Matterhorn, is one of Switzerland’s premier ski destinations, with over 360 kilometers (224 miles) of pistes and a top elevation of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet) at the Klein Matterhorn. The town itself is car-free, contributing to its tranquil atmosphere, and the average temperature in December is a crisp -4°C (25°F), with heavy snowfall that creates ideal skiing conditions.
For more information on Zermatt, contact:
– Zermatt Tourism
– Address: Bahnhofplatz 5, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland
– Phone: +41 27 966 81 00
– Email: info@zermatt.ch
– Official Website
St. Moritz, known for its glamour and sophistication, is one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world. The town’s frozen lake becomes a hub of activity in December, hosting events like snow polo, ice cricket, and the famous White Turf horse races. St. Moritz boasts over 350 kilometers (217 miles) of ski slopes, with altitudes reaching up to 3,305 meters (10,843 feet) at the Piz Nair. The average temperature in December is around -9°C (16°F), making it one of the coldest spots in the Alps, but the clear skies and sunshine (the area records over 300 days of sunshine annually) make it a winter paradise.
For visitor details in St. Moritz:
– Engadin St. Moritz Tourism
– Address: Via Maistra 1, 7500 St. Moritz, Switzerland
– Phone: +41 81 830 00 01
– Email: allegra@engadin.ch
– Official Website
In Norway, the fjords transform into a magical winter landscape during December. The Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are particularly stunning when covered in snow. Geirangerfjord, with its steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls, stretches for 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) and is up to 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) deep. During winter, the fjord’s waters remain unfrozen, creating a striking contrast with the snow-covered mountains. Norway also offers unique winter activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a true winter adventure. The average temperature in the fjords during December is around -1°C (30°F), with frequent snowfall that enhances the region’s breathtaking scenery.
For more information about Norway’s fjords:
– Visit Norway
– Address: Akersgata 55, 0180 Oslo, Norway
– Phone: +47 23 10 61 00
– Email: info@visitnorway.com
– Official Website
Lapland, Finland, offers a winter experience that goes beyond skiing and snowboarding. Known as the home of Santa Claus, Lapland is a magical destination where visitors can experience the Northern Lights, stay in ice hotels, and embark on reindeer or husky sledding adventures. The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, located in the Finnish wilderness, offers guests the chance to stay in glass igloos, providing a front-row seat to the aurora borealis. The Northern Lights can be seen in Lapland on approximately 200 nights each year, with the best chances occurring between September and April. The average temperature in Lapland in December is around -12°C (10°F), with snowfall that begins as early as October and lasts until May.
For more information on visiting Lapland, contact:
– Lapland Safaris
– Address: Joulumaantie 1, 96930 Rovaniemi, Finland
– Phone: +358 16 311 485
– Email: lapland@laplandsafaris.fi
– Official Website
These snow-filled destinations in Europe offer more than just beautiful landscapes—they provide a range of activities that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking for a peaceful winter retreat. Whether you’re carving down the slopes of the Swiss Alps, cruising through the Norwegian fjords, or chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, these destinations promise a December filled with snow, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
Romantic European Winter Getaways
Europe is home to some of the most romantic destinations in the world, and in December, these cities become even more enchanting with their festive lights, cozy cafes, and snow-covered streets. Paris, Vienna, and Venice are among the top romantic destinations for a winter getaway, each offering a unique blend of charm, culture, and intimacy.
Paris, known as the City of Love, is particularly magical in December. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, are illuminated with festive lights, creating a romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a winter stroll. The Champs-Élysées Christmas Market, stretching for over 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles), is one of the most popular in Paris, offering everything from gourmet French delicacies to artisanal crafts. The average temperature in Paris in December is around 5°C (41°F), with occasional snowfall that adds a touch of magic to the city’s already romantic ambiance. Couples can also enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of Paris’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, or cozy up in a charming cafe with a cup of hot chocolate. The Tuileries Garden Christmas Market offers a quintessential Parisian experience, with its festive stalls, ice skating rink, and views of the Louvre.
For more information on Paris tourism, contact:
– Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau
– Address: 25 Rue des Pyramides, 75001 Paris, France
– Phone: +33 1 49 52 42 63
– Email: info@parisinfo.com
– Official Website
Vienna, Austria, is another city that exudes romance in the winter. The city’s elegant architecture, classical music scene, and cozy cafes create a perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Vienna’s Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard that encircles the city center, is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights during the holiday season, making it
ideal for a leisurely evening stroll. The Vienna Christmas Market at Rathausplatz is one of the most romantic in Europe, with over 150 stalls selling everything from traditional Austrian crafts to seasonal delicacies. The market also features a large ice skating rink and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree that stands over 20 meters (65 feet) tall. The average temperature in Vienna in December is around 1°C (34°F), often with light snowfall that adds to the city’s wintry charm. Couples can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic center, attend a concert at the Vienna State Opera, or enjoy a slice of Sachertorte at the famous Café Sacher.
For more details on visiting Vienna, reach out to:
– Vienna Tourist Board
– Address: Invalidenstraße 6, 1030 Wien, Austria
– Phone: +43 1 24 555
– Email: info@wien.info
– Official Website
Venice, Italy, though quieter in winter, offers a dreamy escape with its foggy canals, historic palaces, and intimate atmosphere. The city’s winding streets and narrow alleys are even more romantic when shrouded in mist, creating a sense of mystery and enchantment. The average temperature in Venice in December is around 4°C (39°F), with a high humidity level that often results in foggy mornings, adding to the city’s ethereal beauty. Couples can take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, visit the Doge’s Palace, or simply get lost in the city’s labyrinthine streets, discovering hidden squares and charming bridges along the way. In December, Venice also hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts and exhibitions, adding to the city’s allure as a winter destination.
For information on Venice tourism, contact:
– Venice Tourist Board
– Address: Piazzale Roma, 30135 Venice, Italy
– Phone: +39 041 5298711
– Email: info@turismovenezia.it
– Official Website
For those seeking a budget-friendly romantic getaway, there are plenty of options throughout Europe. Budapest, Hungary, offers a romantic setting with its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and affordable prices. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, with 18 pools, including outdoor baths that are perfect for a winter soak. The average temperature in Budapest in December is around 2°C (36°F), with a mix of rain and snow that creates a cozy atmosphere. Couples can relax in the thermal baths, explore the historic Buda Castle, or take a sunset cruise along the Danube River, with views of the illuminated Parliament Building and Chain Bridge.
For Budapest tourist information, contact:
– Budapest Festival and Tourism Centre
– Address: Sütő utca 2., 1052 Budapest, Hungary
– Phone: +36 1 438 8080
– Email: info@budapestinfo.hu
– Official Website
Another budget-friendly option is Krakow, Poland, known for its charming old town, medieval architecture, and festive atmosphere. The city’s Main Market Square is home to one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets, where couples can shop for traditional Polish crafts, sample local delicacies like oscypek (smoked cheese), and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic streets. The average temperature in Krakow in December is around 0°C (32°F), with frequent snowfall that enhances the city’s romantic appeal. Krakow also offers affordable accommodations, with a range of boutique hotels and cozy bed-and-breakfasts located within walking distance of the city’s main attractions.
For Krakow visitor information, contact:
– Krakow Tourist Information
– Address: ul. Szpitalna 25, 31-024 Kraków, Poland
– Phone: +48 12 354 27 10
– Email: info@krakow.travel
– Official Website
These romantic winter getaways in Europe offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and intimacy, making them ideal destinations for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re exploring the festive streets of Paris, enjoying a concert in Vienna, or getting lost in the misty canals of Venice, these cities provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable and romantic winter escape.
Experiencing Authentic European Holiday Traditions
Europe is rich in holiday traditions, and December is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the local culture by experiencing these traditions firsthand. From attending local festivals to participating in traditional holiday meals, there are countless ways to celebrate the festive season across the continent.
In Italy, the Feast of St. Nicholas, celebrated on December 6th, marks the beginning of the holiday season. This day is especially important in the southern regions of Italy, where children receive gifts from St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children. The town of Bari, located on the Adriatic coast, is the focal point of this celebration, as it houses the relics of St. Nicholas in the Basilica di San Nicola. Each year, thousands of pilgrims from around the world visit Bari to participate in the grand procession that winds through the city’s streets, accompanied by music, prayers, and the ringing of church bells. The event culminates in a festive celebration, with traditional Italian dishes like panettone and torrone being shared among families and friends.
For more details about Bari, contact:
– Tourism Office Bari
– Address: Via Marchese di Montrone 17, 70122 Bari, Italy
– Phone: +39 080 5242244
– Email: infopointturistico@comune.bari.it
– Official Website
In Sweden, Santa Lucia Day on December 13th is a beloved holiday that celebrates the festival of lights during the darkest time of the year. The holiday is marked by processions of young girls dressed in white gowns and wearing crowns of candles, singing traditional songs that herald the arrival of light and hope. The most famous Santa Lucia procession takes place in Stockholm, where the Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral) hosts a beautiful ceremony filled with music, light, and warmth. The event draws thousands of spectators, both locals and tourists, who gather to witness this moving tribute to St. Lucia, the patron saint of light. The average temperature in Stockholm in December is around -1°C (30°F), with the city often blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque setting for the celebration.
For more information about Stockholm tourism:
– Visit Stockholm
– Address: P.O. Box 16282, SE-103 25 Stockholm, Sweden
– Phone: +46 8 508 280 00
– Email: info@stockholm.se
– Official Website
The Netherlands has its own unique holiday tradition with the arrival of Sinterklaas on December 5th. Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa Claus, arrives by boat from Spain, accompanied by his helpers, the Zwarte Piet. The celebration, known as Sinterklaasavond or Pakjesavond, is a festive evening where children receive gifts and sweets, and families gather to enjoy a traditional Dutch meal. The city of Amsterdam hosts one of the largest Sinterklaas parades, with thousands of people lining the canals to watch the procession, which features elaborately decorated boats, lively music, and joyful celebrations. The average temperature in Amsterdam in December is around 4°C (39°F), with frequent rain showers that add to the city’s cozy, indoor atmosphere.
For visitor information on Amsterdam:
– Iamsterdam
– Address: Stationsplein 10, 1012 AB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
– Phone: +31 20 702 6000
– Email: info@iamsterdam.com
– Official Website
In addition to these traditions, many European cities host special events and festivals throughout December. In Lyon, France, the Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights) transforms the city into a glowing wonderland. The festival, held in early December, features stunning light installations, projections, and performances that illuminate the city’s historic buildings and public spaces. The festival attracts over four million visitors each year, making it one of the largest and most popular winter events in Europe. The average temperature in Lyon in December is around 5°C (41°F), with the city often experiencing crisp, clear nights that are perfect for enjoying the light displays.
For Lyon tourist information, contact:
– OnlyLyon Tourism
– Address: Place Bellecour, 69002 Lyon, France
– Phone: +33 4 72 77 69 69
– Email: contact@lyon-france.com
– Official Website
Edinburgh, Scotland, is famous for its Hogmanay celebration, a New Year’s festival that lasts several days and includes street parties, concerts, and a spectacular fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle. Hogmanay is one of the world’s most famous New Year’s celebrations, with over 100,000 people attending the event each year. The festivities begin with a torchlight procession through the city’s streets, creating a breathtaking sight as thousands of people carry flaming torches to usher in the new year. The average temperature in Edinburgh in December is around 3°C (37
°F), with a mix of rain and snow that adds to the city’s dramatic landscape.
For more information about Edinburgh’s Hogmanay:
– Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
– Address: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
– Phone: +44 131 510 0395
– Email: info@edinburghshogmanay.com
– Official Website
These holiday traditions and events offer a unique and authentic way to experience the festive season in Europe. Whether you’re participating in a traditional feast in Italy, joining a candlelit procession in Sweden, or celebrating New Year’s Eve in Scotland, these experiences provide a deeper connection to the culture and history of the region, making your December trip to Europe truly unforgettable.
FAQs
How cold does it get in Europe during December?
The temperature in Europe during December varies greatly depending on the region. In northern and eastern Europe, temperatures can drop to as low as -15°C (5°F) or even lower, particularly in countries like Finland and Russia. Central Europe, including Germany and Austria, typically sees temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Southern Europe, such as Spain and Italy, is milder, with temperatures averaging between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
What are the best European cities to visit for Christmas markets?
Some of the best European cities for Christmas markets include Vienna, Austria; Nuremberg, Germany; and Strasbourg, France. Each of these cities hosts historic and large-scale Christmas markets that draw millions of visitors each year. Additionally, cities like Prague, Budapest, and Krakow also offer charming Christmas markets with unique local traditions.
Where is the best place in Europe to see the Northern Lights in December?
The best places to see the Northern Lights in December are in the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Lapland, particularly in areas like Tromsø, Norway, and Rovaniemi, Finland, is renowned for its clear, dark skies that provide optimal conditions for witnessing this natural phenomenon. The lights are most active between September and April, with December offering a good chance to catch them.
Are European Christmas markets expensive?
The cost of visiting European Christmas markets can vary. Entry to most markets is free, but the price of food, drinks, and gifts can add up. In popular cities like Vienna and Nuremberg, you might pay around €5-€7 for a cup of glühwein (mulled wine) and €10-€20 for handmade crafts. However, there are also budget-friendly options, particularly in less touristy cities where prices may be lower.
Is it possible to travel to multiple European cities during December?
Yes, it is possible to travel to multiple European cities during December. Europe has an extensive and efficient train network, as well as numerous budget airlines, making it easy to hop from one city to another. For example, you can take a train from Vienna to Prague in about 4 hours, or fly from Paris to Venice in just over 2 hours. Just be sure to plan your itinerary in advance, as the holiday season can be busy.
What are some unique winter activities to do in Europe besides skiing?
In addition to skiing, Europe offers a variety of unique winter activities. In Norway, you can go dog sledding or take a fjord cruise. In Finland, staying in a glass igloo to watch the Northern Lights is a popular activity. You can also visit ice hotels in Sweden or go snowshoeing in the Swiss Alps. For a more cultural experience, attending Christmas markets or participating in local holiday traditions is also a great way to enjoy the winter season in Europe.
Europe in December offers a wide range of cozy and festive destinations, each with its unique charm and holiday spirit. From the romance of Paris, Vienna, and Venice to the snowy landscapes of the Swiss Alps, Norway, and Lapland, these destinations provide the perfect setting for a magical winter getaway. Whether you’re exploring the grand Christmas markets of Vienna and Nuremberg, experiencing the thrill of winter sports in the Alps, or immersing yourself in local holiday traditions, Europe promises an unforgettable December filled with warmth, wonder, and joy. So pack your bags, embrace the season, and discover the magic of Europe this December.
