December is a magical month to explore Europe, offering festive markets, snow-capped landscapes, and holiday charm. Travelers can enjoy cultural events, winter sports, and seasonal culinary delights.

European countries transform into winter wonderlands with decorations, lights, and seasonal festivals. Planning ahead ensures travelers experience the best attractions and avoid overcrowded destinations.

Many destinations offer unique traditions, from Christmas markets to New Year celebrations. Knowing what each country specializes in helps plan an unforgettable holiday trip.

In this guide, we review 10 best European countries to visit in December, highlighting winter festivals, sightseeing, and holiday experiences. This will help travelers choose destinations that suit their preferences.

10 Best European Countries To Visit In December

1. Austria – Best for Christmas Markets & Alpine Adventures

Austria is famous for its festive Christmas markets, especially in Vienna and Salzburg. Ski resorts in the Alps offer winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Seasonal foods and mulled wine enrich the experience.

Historic architecture and cultural concerts create a magical holiday ambiance. Traditional Austrian pastries, concerts, and festive decorations attract tourists. Families and couples find the country highly festive.

December is ideal for travelers seeking culture, snow activities, and culinary delights. Crowds can be high, especially in major cities. Winter clothing is essential for comfort.

Pros:
• Christmas markets
• Alpine skiing
• Cultural events
• Historic charm
• Family-friendly
• Seasonal foods
• Scenic views

Cons:
• Cold weather
• Crowded cities
• Higher prices

2. Germany – Best for Holiday Markets & Winter Festivals

Germany hosts famous Christmas markets in Munich, Berlin, and Nuremberg. Seasonal foods like bratwurst, stollen, and mulled wine enhance visits. Winter festivals and concerts provide entertainment.

Historic streets, castles, and festive lights create picturesque scenery. Ice skating rinks and holiday performances are popular. Families and solo travelers can enjoy cultural events.

December is perfect for experiencing traditional German culture and winter charm. Crowds and cold weather are common. Markets are lively and festive.

Pros:
• Christmas markets
• Historic streets
• Winter festivals
• Culinary treats
• Ice skating
• Family-friendly
• Cultural events

Cons:
• Cold temperatures
• Crowded areas
• Short daylight

3. Switzerland – Best for Alpine Scenery & Winter Sports

Switzerland provides stunning Alpine landscapes with ski resorts in Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva. Christmas markets and festive lights complement natural beauty. Seasonal foods and chocolates enrich visits.

Cultural events, concerts, and holiday activities are abundant. Families, couples, and adventure travelers enjoy winter experiences. Snow-covered towns create magical scenery.

December is ideal for skiing, winter festivals, and mountain adventures. Weather is cold but manageable. Prices can be high during peak season.

Pros:
• Alpine scenery
• Ski resorts
• Christmas markets
• Cultural events
• Winter charm
• Family-friendly
• Culinary treats

Cons:
• Cold weather
• Higher costs
• Crowded resorts

4. France – Best for Holiday Lights & Cultural Events

France dazzles with festive lights in Paris, Strasbourg, and Lyon. Christmas markets, holiday concerts, and seasonal cuisine attract visitors. Iconic landmarks add charm to winter trips.

Winter shopping streets offer luxury fashion and seasonal treats. Families and couples enjoy skating, concerts, and cozy cafes. Cultural events are abundant throughout December.

December in France is ideal for festive celebrations, romantic trips, and sightseeing. Weather is chilly but manageable. Crowds are present at top attractions.

Pros:
• Christmas lights
• Holiday markets
• Iconic landmarks
• Cultural events
• Winter shopping
• Family-friendly
• Seasonal cuisine

Cons:
• Cold weather
• Crowds
• Higher costs

5. Italy – Best for Culinary Delights & Christmas Charm

Italy offers festive markets, historic towns, and seasonal culinary treats. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Bologna are adorned with lights. Traditional foods and pastries are holiday highlights.

Cultural events, concerts, and winter decorations enhance the festive atmosphere. Families and couples enjoy historic sites and cozy streets. December provides authentic Italian winter charm.

Visitors can combine sightseeing with food experiences. Cold weather requires preparation. Smaller towns offer a quieter festive experience.

Pros:
• Christmas markets
• Culinary delights
• Cultural events
• Historic towns
• Family-friendly
• Festive lights
• Winter charm

Cons:
• Cold weather
• Crowded cities
• Short daylight

6. Spain – Best for Mild Winter & Festivities

Spain offers mild winter weather and vibrant holiday celebrations. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville host Christmas markets and seasonal concerts. Traditional foods and decorations enhance the festive mood.

Cultural events, parades, and street performances entertain travelers. Coastal cities provide scenic views and milder temperatures. Families and couples enjoy cultural and culinary experiences.

December is ideal for exploring culture, food, and festive traditions. Crowds can gather in popular cities. Weather is milder compared to northern Europe.

Pros:
• Mild winter
• Christmas markets
• Cultural events
• Seasonal foods
• Family-friendly
• Scenic cities
• Festive charm

Cons:
• Crowded areas
• Short daylight
• Cooler evenings

7. Portugal – Best for Coastal Winter & Holiday Lights

Portugal combines mild winter weather with festive Christmas markets. Lisbon and Porto feature lights, decorations, and seasonal foods. Cultural events, concerts, and festivals are plentiful.

Historic streets and coastal scenery add charm to winter trips. Families and couples can enjoy holiday traditions and culinary experiences. December is ideal for exploring both cities and coastal towns.

Visitors enjoy festive experiences with less cold than northern Europe. Markets are charming and photogenic. Crowds are moderate compared to other countries.

Pros:
• Mild weather
• Holiday markets
• Cultural events
• Coastal scenery
• Family-friendly
• Festive lights
• Culinary treats

Cons:
• Cooler evenings
• Short daylight
• Some crowds

8. Austria & Switzerland – Combined Alpine Winter Adventure

This combination offers a complete winter experience with skiing, holiday markets, and cultural events. Cities and towns like Salzburg, Zurich, and Lucerne provide scenic charm. Seasonal foods and traditional celebrations enrich trips.

Ski resorts, ice skating, and alpine scenery attract families and adventure travelers. Festivals, concerts, and cozy cafes enhance holiday experiences. Snow-covered towns create picturesque landscapes.

December is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts and festive travelers. Weather is cold but rewarding. Peak season can bring larger crowds.

Pros:
• Alpine scenery
• Ski resorts
• Holiday markets
• Cultural events
• Winter charm
• Family-friendly
• Scenic towns

Cons:
• Cold weather
• Crowded resorts
• Higher costs

9. Germany & Czech Republic – Best for Medieval Winter Charm

This pairing combines Germany’s festive markets with Czech Republic’s historic ambiance. Cities like Prague, Berlin, and Munich provide winter magic. Seasonal foods, concerts, and local crafts enhance visits.

Historic streets, castles, and cobblestone squares create picturesque winter scenes. Families and couples enjoy cozy markets and cultural events. Ice skating and holiday performances are popular.

December is ideal for exploring history, culture, and Christmas traditions. Cold weather and crowds are expected. Markets are lively and festive.

Pros:
• Historic charm
• Christmas markets
• Cultural events
• Ice skating
• Family-friendly
• Seasonal foods
• Festive lights

Cons:
• Cold temperatures
• Crowded cities
• Short daylight

10. Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark) – Best for Winter & Northern Lights

Scandinavian countries offer snowy landscapes, northern lights, and cozy traditions. Cities like Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo feature markets, ice skating, and festive lights. Seasonal foods and local traditions enrich visits.

Winter activities include skiing, snowmobiling, and cultural events. Families and couples enjoy festive charm and unique winter experiences. December provides magical winter scenery and authentic local culture.

Travelers experience mild to extreme cold depending on location. Markets, lights, and winter adventures make trips memorable. Planning ahead is essential for northern regions.

Pros:
• Northern lights
• Winter sports
• Holiday markets
• Cultural events
• Family-friendly
• Scenic views
• Festive charm

Cons:
• Very cold
• Short daylight
• Crowds

FAQs: Best European Countries to Visit in December

1. Which European country has the best Christmas markets?
Austria, Germany, and Switzerland are top choices for festive markets.

2. Where can I enjoy mild winter weather in December?
Spain, Portugal, and southern Italy have mild temperatures and festive charm.

3. Which countries are best for winter sports?
Switzerland, Austria, and Scandinavian countries offer skiing and snow adventures.

4. Are European countries crowded in December?
Popular tourist spots and markets can be crowded, especially before Christmas.

5. Which countries are family-friendly for holiday trips?
Austria, Germany, France, and Portugal provide family activities and safe environments.

6. Can I see the Northern Lights in Europe in December?
Yes, Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark) and Iceland offer northern lights viewing.

7. Are Christmas markets expensive in Europe?
Costs vary; larger cities are pricier while smaller towns offer more affordable experiences.

Conclusion

December is an enchanting month to explore Europe, offering markets, lights, and cultural experiences. Travelers can enjoy festive events, winter sports, and seasonal foods across multiple countries.

Each country provides a unique winter charm, from Alpine skiing to mild coastal celebrations. Planning early ensures memorable trips, better accommodations, and less crowded experiences.

Families, couples, and solo travelers can find destinations suited to their preferences. Winter clothing, itinerary planning, and early bookings are essential.

Europe in December promises festive cheer, cozy atmospheres, and unforgettable memories for all travelers. Choose your preferred country and enjoy the holiday magic.