Best destinations to visit in December in Europe
Best destinations to visit in December in Europe
December belongs to two very different seasons across Europe, with Christmas markets filling city squares while ski resorts fill up with snow.
Christmas markets reach their peak in the weeks before the holiday, especially across Germany, Austria and much of Central Europe, drawing large crowds for mulled wine and seasonal shopping. Alpine ski resorts move into full swing too, with snow becoming far more reliable than it was earlier in the season. Southern Europe stays milder, offering a gentler alternative for travelers who want a break from the cold further north. Prices climb steadily as the month goes on, peaking in the final week before Christmas and again around New Year's Eve. Booking well ahead becomes especially important for both markets and ski resorts during this stretch.
The destinations on our list for Europe reflect that same split between festive markets and full ski season conditions.
Lists by region
City in Germany
Munich
Bavarian capital of beer gardens and museums
Christmas markets have been held on Marienplatz for hundreds of years. Stalls sell gingerbread, roasted almonds and Gluhwein, a spiced hot wine. The Residenz palace has its own market with a quieter mood. Winter days are cold, so warm beer halls are good places to rest.
City in Germany
Cologne
Gothic cathedral, Roman ruins and Kölsch
Under the twin spires of Cologne Cathedral, 515 feet tall, the air smells of roasted almonds and Glühwein, spiced hot wine. The market by the cathedral has dozens of wooden stalls under a huge tree while more markets are spread around the old town and along the Rhine.
City in Germany
Nuremberg
Imperial castle, gingerbread and Christmas market
About two million people visit the Christkindlesmarkt each year. It is among the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. A young person dressed as the Christkind, a Christmas angel figure, opens it from the Frauenkirche balcony. Lebkuchen gingerbread and small grilled sausages are the local treats.
Region in Germany
Münsterland
Moated castles and flat cycling country
Compared with the busy markets in Munich and Nuremberg, markets here are quieter and set in castles and small towns. Many castles stand in the middle of moats. Nordkirchen Castle holds a Christmas market in its courtyard. Cycle paths between villages are flat and well signed.
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