Good European Cities To Visit In December

Choosing the right city to visit in December can make a significant difference in your travel experience. The weather, holiday celebrations, and cultural events all contribute to creating a unique and memorable trip. European cities in particular are known for their enchanting atmosphere during the winter months, making them popular destinations for travelers from around the world. In this article, we will explore some of the best European cities to visit in December, highlighting their unique features and attractions that make them stand out during this time of year.

The Magic of European Cities in December

December is a special time in Europe, as the cities come alive with holiday lights, markets, and celebrations. The cold weather creates a cozy atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore the charming streets and indulge in warm drinks and comfort foods. Each city has its own unique charm and character, offering a wide range of activities and experiences for travelers to enjoy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a City

When choosing a European city to visit in December, there are several factors to consider. These include:

• Weather: The weather can vary significantly across Europe in December, so it’s important to choose a city with a climate that suits your preferences.
• Holiday celebrations: Many European cities go all out for the holiday season, so if you’re looking to experience Christmas markets, festive lights, and other holiday traditions, be sure to choose a city that celebrates in a way that appeals to you.
• Cultural events: December is a busy time for cultural events in Europe, so consider choosing a city that hosts events that interest you, such as concerts, theater performances, or art exhibitions.
• Budget: Europe can be an expensive destination, so it’s important to choose a city that fits within your budget.

The Best European Cities to Visit in December

Now that we’ve covered some of the factors to consider when choosing a European city to visit in December, let’s explore some of the best options:

• Prague, Czech Republic

  Prague is a fairy tale city that comes alive in December, with holiday markets, festive lights, and charming cobblestone streets. Visitors can enjoy warm drinks and comfort foods, such as mulled wine and traditional Czech pastries, while exploring the city’s many attractions, including Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square.

• Berlin, Germany

  Berlin is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and December is no exception. The city hosts a wide range of events, including Christmas markets, concerts, and art exhibitions. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s many historical sites, such as the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate, as well as its world-class museums and galleries.

• Copenhagen, Denmark

  Copenhagen is a cozy and charming city that is perfect for a winter getaway. Visitors can enjoy the city’s many holiday traditions, including the Tivoli Gardens Christmas market and the Christmas lights along the Nyhavn canal. The city is also home to world-class restaurants, museums, and shops, making it a great destination for foodies, culture lovers, and shopaholics alike. (See Also: Top Cities To Visit In India)

• Vienna, Austria

  Vienna is a city of elegance and charm, and December is a magical time to visit. The city is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, as well as world-class museums, galleries, and historical sites. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Austrian foods, such as Wiener Schnitzel and Sacher Torte, while exploring the city’s charming streets and squares.

Good European Cities to Visit in December

Winter in Europe is a magical time, with picturesque Christmas markets, cozy cafes, and beautiful holiday decorations. If you’re planning a trip to Europe in December, here are some of the best cities to visit.

1. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a fairy tale city any time of year, but it is especially enchanting in December. The city is adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations, and the smell of roasting chestnuts fills the air. The Old Town Square is home to one of the largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, where you can find handmade crafts, traditional food, and warm drinks.

• Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit. The castle complex includes St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and several museums.
• Take a stroll across the Charles Bridge, which offers stunning views of the city and the Vltava River.
• Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine at one of the city’s many cozy cafes.

2. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city of elegance and charm, and it is particularly beautiful in December. The city is home to over 20 Christmas markets, including the famous Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz. Here, you can find traditional Austrian handicrafts, delicious food, and festive entertainment.

• Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs, and explore its opulent rooms and gardens.
• Take a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater amusement park for a bird’s eye view of the city.
• Indulge in Viennese specialties such as Sacher-Torte, Wiener Schnitzel, and Apfelstrudel.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a city of hygge, the Danish concept of coziness and well-being. In December, the city is filled with the warm glow of candles and fireplaces, and the air is filled with the scent of gløgg, a traditional Danish mulled wine. The Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights and holiday decorations.

• Explore the colorful buildings and canals of the Nyhavn district.
• Visit the National Museum of Denmark to learn about the country’s history and culture.
• Try traditional Danish foods such as smørrebrød, flæskesteg, and æbleskiver.

4. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, located in the Alsace region of France, is home to one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The market, known as Christkindelsmärik, dates back to 1570 and features over 300 stalls selling handmade crafts, local delicacies, and festive decorations. (See Also: Beat Cities To Visit In Japan)

• Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
• Take a boat tour of the Ill River to see the city’s beautiful architecture and Christmas decorations from a different perspective.
• Try traditional Alsatian foods such as choucroute, tarte flambée, and bredeles.

5. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city of contrasts, with its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and lively nightlife. In December, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland, with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and festive decorations.

• Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most beautiful buildings in Europe, and take a tour of its opulent interior.
• Relax in one of the city’s many thermal baths, such as the Széchenyi or Gellért.
• Try traditional Hungarian foods such as goulash, chicken paprikash, and chimney cake.

Table: Average Temperature and Rainfall in December

December is a wonderful time to visit Europe, with its festive atmosphere, beautiful decorations, and cozy cafes. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, these cities have something for everyone.

In conclusion, December is a wonderful time to visit Europe with its festive markets, charming winter landscapes, and mild weather. Some of the top cities to consider include Berlin for its vibrant Christmas markets and cultural attractions, Prague for its enchanting Old Town Square and stunning castle, Vienna for its imperial palaces and world-class museums, Copenhagen for its cozy hygge atmosphere and Tivoli Gardens, and Amsterdam for its picturesque canals and historic architecture.

Each of these cities offers a unique and memorable experience, with plenty of opportunities to soak up the holiday spirit and enjoy European culture. From sipping glühwein and eating bratwurst in Berlin, to exploring the fairytale-like streets of Prague, to ice-skating in front of Vienna’s City Hall, there is something for everyone in these delightful destinations. So pack your warmest clothes, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable European adventure this December!

FAQs: Good European Cities to Visit in December

What are some popular Christmas markets to visit in Europe in December?

Some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe include the Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany; the Vienna Christmas Market in Austria; the Strasbourg Christmas Market in France; and the Brussels Winter Wonders in Belgium. These markets offer a festive atmosphere with twinkling lights, traditional food and drink, and unique gifts.

Which European cities are known for their holiday light displays in December?

Many European cities go all out when it comes to holiday light displays. Some of the most notable include London, England, with its Oxford Street and Regent Street lights; Paris, France, with its Champs-Élysées and Notre-Dame illuminations; and Rome, Italy, with its Spanish Steps and Via Condotti decorations. (See Also: Cities To Visit In Uk With Family)

What are some indoor activities to do in Europe during December?

For those looking to escape the cold, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy in Europe during December. Some options include visiting museums, such as the Louvre in Paris or the Vatican Museums in Rome; attending concerts or theater performances; or exploring historic sites, such as the Colosseum in Rome or the Tower of London in England.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Europe during December?

Despite the colder temperatures, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Europe during December. Some options include skiing or snowboarding in the Alps; ice skating in cities such as London, England or Bruges, Belgium; or taking a winter hike in a national park, such as the Black Forest in Germany or the Swiss Alps in Switzerland.

What are some cultural events to attend in Europe during December?

December is a rich month for cultural events in Europe. Some options include attending the Nutcracker ballet in cities such as Moscow, Russia or Berlin, Germany; watching traditional Christmas pageants in cities such as Prague, Czech Republic or Krakow, Poland; or attending the New Year’s Eve celebrations in cities such as Paris, France or London, England.