As the year comes to a close, many of us start planning our winter getaways to Europe. December is a great time to visit Europe, with Christmas markets, festive atmosphere, and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. But with so many amazing cities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to the best cities to visit in Europe in December, highlighting the top destinations that offer a unique and unforgettable experience.
Why Visit Europe in December?
December is a wonderful time to visit Europe, with the holiday season in full swing. The cities are decked out in festive decorations, and the atmosphere is filled with joy and cheer. Many cities also host Christmas markets, offering a chance to try local delicacies and drinks, and shop for unique gifts. Additionally, December is a great time to visit popular attractions without the crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing.
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Best Cities to Visit in Europe in December
In this article, we’ll explore the top cities to visit in Europe in December, including:
- Paris, France: The City of Light is a must-visit during the holiday season, with its famous Christmas market and stunning light displays.
- Vienna, Austria: Experience the magic of Vienna’s Christmas markets, and enjoy the city’s famous coffee culture and opera performances.
- Prague, Czech Republic: Prague’s historic center is transformed into a winter wonderland, with festive markets and stunning architecture.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam’s canals are especially beautiful during the holiday season, and the city’s Christmas markets offer a unique shopping experience.
- Berlin, Germany: Berlin’s Christmas markets are some of the largest and most festive in Europe, and the city’s museums and galleries are a great place to spend a cold winter’s day.
- Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona’s festive atmosphere is unmatched, with its famous Christmas market and stunning architecture.
- Copenhagen, Denmark: Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens is a must-visit during the holiday season, with its festive lights and decorations.
- Zurich, Switzerland: Zurich’s Christmas market is one of the most beautiful in Europe, and the city’s stunning lake and mountains offer a picturesque backdrop.
In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into each of these cities, highlighting the top attractions, events, and experiences to enjoy during your visit. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled adventure, these cities are sure to impress.
Best Cities To Visit In Europe December
December is a wonderful time to visit Europe, with the festive atmosphere, twinkling lights, and cozy winter markets. Here are some of the best cities to visit in Europe during December:
1. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a must-visit destination during December, with its famous Christmas markets and festive atmosphere. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of City Hall, and it offers a wide range of traditional Austrian delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the Vienna Boys’ Choir’s annual Christmas concert at the Hofburg Palace.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a beautiful city during the winter months, with its Gothic architecture and cobblestone streets covered in snow. The city’s Christmas market is located in Old Town Square, and it offers a variety of traditional Czech food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive atmosphere and twinkling lights on Charles Bridge.
3. Paris, France
Paris is always a romantic destination, but it’s especially magical during December. The city’s famous Christmas market is located on the Champs-Élysées, and it offers a wide range of festive goods, including decorations, toys, and food. Don’t miss the ice skating rink at the Eiffel Tower and the festive lights on the Seine River.
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of the Berlin Cathedral, and it offers a wide range of traditional German food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the Brandenburg Gate and the ice skating rink at the Tiergarten.
5. Rome, Italy
Rome is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in Piazza Navona, and it offers a wide range of traditional Italian food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the Spanish Steps and the ice skating rink at the Piazza del Popolo. (See Also: Cities To Visit In November)
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of the Rijksmuseum, and it offers a wide range of traditional Dutch food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the canals and the ice skating rink at the Museumplein.
7. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of the Bahnhofstrasse, and it offers a wide range of traditional Swiss food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the Bahnhofstrasse and the ice skating rink at the Lake Zurich.
8. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of the Plaça Catalunya, and it offers a wide range of traditional Spanish food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the Ramblas and the ice skating rink at the Parc de la Ciutadella.
9. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of the Dublin City Gallery, and it offers a wide range of traditional Irish food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the O’Connell Street and the ice skating rink at the St. Stephen’s Green.
10. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a great destination during December, with its festive atmosphere and many Christmas markets. The city’s main Christmas market is located in front of the Old Town, and it offers a wide range of traditional Swedish food, drinks, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the festive lights on the Old Town and the ice skating rink at the Kungsträdgården.
Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Here are some of the best Christmas markets in Europe:
- Vienna Christmas Market, Austria
- Prague Christmas Market, Czech Republic
- Strasbourg Christmas Market, France
- Berlin Christmas Market, Germany
- Rome Christmas Market, Italy
- Amsterdam Christmas Market, Netherlands
- Zurich Christmas Market, Switzerland
- Barcelona Christmas Market, Spain
- Dublin Christmas Market, Ireland
- Stockholm Christmas Market, Sweden
Best Festive Activities in Europe
Here are some of the best festive activities to do in Europe during December:
- Ice skating at the Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
- Ice skating at the Tiergarten, Berlin, Germany
- Ice skating at the Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy
- Ice skating at the Museumplein, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Ice skating at the Lake Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Ice skating at the Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona, Spain
- Ice skating at the St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin, Ireland
- Ice skating at the Kungsträdgården, Stockholm, Sweden
Best Festive Food and Drink in Europe
Here are some of the best festive food and drink to try in Europe during December:
- Glühwein, Germany
- Hot chocolate, France
- Glögg, Sweden
- Hot cider, Ireland
- Churros, Spain
- Waffles, Belgium
- Strudel, Austria
- Canapés, France
Best Festive Events in Europe
Here are some of the best festive events to attend in Europe during December:
- Vienna Boys’ Choir’s annual Christmas concert, Vienna, Austria
- Christmas markets, Prague, Czech Republic
- Strasbourg Christmas Market, Strasbourg, France
- Christmas markets, Berlin, Germany
- Rome’s Christmas festivities, Rome, Italy
- Amsterdam’s Christmas festivities, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Zurich’s Christmas festivities, Zurich, Switzerland
- Barcelona’s Christmas festivities, Barcelona, Spain
- Dublin’s Christmas festivities, Dublin, Ireland
- Stockholm’s Christmas festivities, Stockholm, Sweden
Best Festive Accommodation in Europe
Here are some of the best festive accommodation options in Europe: (See Also: Best Us Cities To Visit In 2020)
City | Hotel | Price |
---|---|---|
Vienna, Austria | The Grand Hotel Wien | €200-€500 per night |
Prague, Czech Republic | The Grand Mark Prague | €150-€300 per night |
Paris, France | The Ritz Paris | €500-€1,000 per night |
Berlin, Germany | The Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin | €200-€400 per night |
Rome, Italy | The Hotel Eden Rome | €300-€600 per night |
Amsterdam, Netherlands | The Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam | €150-€300 per night |
Zurich, Switzerland | The Baur au Lac | €400-€800 per night |
Barcelona, Spain | The Hotel Omm | €200-€400 per night |
Dublin, Ireland | The Shelbourne Dublin | €150-€300 per night |
Stockholm, Sweden | The Grand Hôtel Stockholm | €300-€600 per night |
Best Festive Transportation in Europe
Here are some of the best festive transportation options in Europe:
- Train travel, Europe-wide
- Bus travel, Europe-wide
- Flying, Europe-wide
- Car rental, Europe-wide
- Public transportation, city-by-city
Best Festive Shopping in Europe
Here are some of the best festive shopping options in Europe:
- Christmas markets, city-by-city
- Department stores, city-by-city
- Specialty stores, city-by-city
- Online shopping, Europe-wide
Best Festive Entertainment in Europe
Here are some of the best festive entertainment options in Europe:
- Ice skating, city-by-city
- Christmas concerts, city-by-city
- Christmas shows, city-by-city
- Christmas movies, city-by-city
- Christmas games, city-by-city
Best Festive Experiences in Europe
Here are some of the best festive experiences to have in Europe:
- Visiting a Christmas market, city-by-city
- Going ice skating, city-by-city
- Attending a Christmas
As we wrap up our journey through the best cities to visit in Europe in December, it’s clear that each destination offers a unique blend of festive cheer, cultural attractions, and winter wonder. From the snow-capped mountains of the Swiss Alps to the charming canals of Amsterdam, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
In this article, we’ve explored the top cities to visit in Europe during the holiday season, highlighting their must-see attractions, festive markets, and special events. We’ve also provided tips on what to pack, how to get around, and where to stay to make the most of your trip.
So, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo exploration of Europe’s winter wonders, we hope this article has inspired you to plan your dream trip. Remember to bundle up, be merry, and make the most of the holiday season in Europe!
Key takeaways:
- Each city offers a unique blend of festive cheer, cultural attractions, and winter wonder.
- The top cities to visit in Europe in December include Zurich, Amsterdam, Vienna, and Prague.
- Must-see attractions include Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and festive light displays.
- Special events include concerts, theater performances, and holiday-themed tours.
- Be sure to pack warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the holiday magic.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article and are now ready to start planning your European winter wonderland adventure. Happy travels! (See Also: Us Cities To Visit In The Fall)
Here are five FAQs related to “Best Cities To Visit In Europe December”:
FAQs: Best Cities To Visit In Europe December
What is the best city to visit in Europe in December for Christmas markets?
Prague, Czech Republic is a top choice for Christmas markets in December. The city’s Old Town Square is transformed into a winter wonderland with stalls selling mulled wine, traditional Czech food, and handmade crafts. The city also hosts a festive ice skating rink and a beautiful Christmas tree.
Which European city has the most festive atmosphere in December?
Vienna, Austria is known for its magical Christmas atmosphere. The city’s historic center is adorned with festive lights and decorations, and the Vienna Christmas Market offers a wide range of goods, including handmade toys, jewelry, and souvenirs. The city also hosts a festive ice skating rink and a variety of Christmas concerts and events.
What is the best city to visit in Europe in December for winter sports?
Chamonix, France is a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts in December. The city is located at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, and offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing. The city also hosts a festive Christmas market and a variety of holiday events.
Which European city has the most affordable accommodations in December?
Budapest, Hungary is a great option for budget-conscious travelers in December. The city offers a range of affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget hotels, and a variety of free or low-cost attractions, such as the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Hungarian Parliament Building. The city also hosts a festive Christmas market and a variety of holiday events.
What is the best city to visit in Europe in December for a romantic getaway?
Bruges, Belgium is a charming and romantic city in December. The city’s medieval architecture is adorned with festive lights and decorations, and the city’s canals are filled with festive boats. The city also hosts a variety of romantic events, including candlelit dinners and horse-drawn carriage rides. The city’s Christmas market offers a range of romantic gifts and souvenirs, including handmade jewelry and chocolates.