The best European cities to visit in December sparkle with festive lights, bustling Christmas markets, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere of holiday cheer. From capital cities adorned with colorful decorations and pop-up ice rinks to charming small towns with cozy cafés and cobblestone streets, Europe in December is nothing short of magical.
Whether you’re browsing Christmas markets for souvenirs and local handicrafts or visiting churches, castles, and other cultural sights without the summer crowds, these European cities promise a truly memorable winter escape.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of the best places to visit in December in Europe, offering a magical mix of festive markets, historic sights, and relaxing thermal baths.
Széchenyi is arguably the most famous of the city’s thermal baths and is definitely worth a visit. Even in winter, the outdoor pools are heated, making it feel magical to watch the mist rise from the water on a chilly day.
For a seasonal activity, go ice skating at the rink in City Park, one of the largest ice rinks in Europe, set against the backdrop of Vajdahunyad Castle. Alternatively, try the rink at St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market, where you can skate, then shop for souvenirs and warm treats.
Regensburg, Germany
Regensburg, Germany
Regensburg is enchanting year-round, but December adds a special magic. The city hosts several Christmas markets, including the Christkindlmarkt on Neupfarrplatz. With a medieval backdrop and festive lights strung over the stalls, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
Beyond the markets, wander the cobblestone streets and be sure to visit St. Peter’s Cathedral, an excellent example of Gothic architecture. If you’re up for it, climb the 343 steps to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the city below.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg, Germany
Christmas markets are a big draw in December, and Nuremberg is home to one of the oldest and most famous. The Christkindlesmarkt fills the Hauptmarkt in the old town and is a great place to sample local foods, warm up with a cup of Glühwein, and browse handmade crafts and festive ornaments.
Another way to enjoy Nuremberg’s charm is by strolling through the old town. Along the way, you can visit the Imperial Castle and historic churches such as St. Lorenz and St. Sebaldus. Whenever you get cold, duck into a local café or find an outdoor table with heaters and sip your coffee while people-watching.
Passau, Germany
Passau, Germany
Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” in reference to the Inn, Danube, and Ilz rivers, which converge here, Passau has plenty happening in December. The Passau Christmas Market, or Christkindlmarkt, is the main draw, kicking off in late November and running through most of December. The market is set up in front of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s largest cathedral organs.
While Veste Oberhaus, a fortress dating back to 1219, is open year-round, winter is an ideal time to visit, as there are often fewer crowds. From the top of the observation tower, you can see the confluence of the three rivers as well as the old town’s narrow, winding cobblestone streets.
Linz, Austria
Linz, Austria
There’s plenty to do in Linz in December, both indoors and outdoors, making it one of the best places to visit in December in Europe. The main Christmas market, the Christkindlmarkt, is held in Hauptplatz and is the perfect spot to enjoy mulled wine, seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts. Another festive market, located at Volksgarten, offers a family-friendly atmosphere with rides and food stalls, further enhancing the holiday spirit.
A uniquely Linz experience is the Pöstlingbergbahn, a historic tram that climbs steep tracks from Linz Hauptplatz to Pöstlingberg, offering scenic views of the city and the wintery landscape.
For indoor cultural activities, Linz is home to the Ars Electronica Center, also called the “Museum of the Future,” where interactive exhibits explore the intersection of art, technology, and science. Another highlight is the Lentos Kunstmuseum, which showcases modern and contemporary art and provides picturesque views of the Danube.
Melk, Austria
Melk, Austria
Melk, really more of a small town than a city, isn’t too crowded in December, which may appeal to visitors seeking a quieter, more authentic travel experience. The town’s Advent Market spreads across the historic center, with stalls selling regional handicrafts, hand-painted Christmas baubles, and a variety of food and drinks to enjoy as you browse.
Beyond the markets, you’ll want to squeeze in a visit to Melk Abbey. Founded in 1089 and later rebuilt between 1702 and 1736, the abbey is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. Inside, you’ll find several rooms open to visitors, including the impressive library filled with medieval manuscripts.
Outside, the abbey gardens offer panoramic views of the Danube and the Wachau Valley. While the actual grounds are only open seasonally, the viewpoints are usually accessible year-round.
Wachau Valley, Austria
Dürnstein in Wachau Valley, Austria
In December, the towns and villages along the Wachau Valley come alive with holiday events and Christmas markets, making it a unique time to visit. One of the most atmospheric markets is at Dürnstein Castle, where stalls fill the inner courtyard and offer views over the Danube.
For something more active, consider hiking through frosty vineyards or even trying snowshoeing if there’s snow on the ground. Many larger wineries, such as Domäne Wachau, remain open during the winter and offer guided tours and tastings.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria
Vienna in December offers a festive atmosphere filled with Christmas markets, mulled wine, and streets strung with twinkling lights. Even in rain or snow, a walk through Vienna’s Old Town feels like stepping inside a snow globe. Visit one of the city’s markets, lace up your ice skates, or warm up in a traditional Viennese café.
The city is also home to world-class museums and palaces. Most open around 10 a.m. and close around 5 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly. Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, and the Leopold Museum are highlights. When you visit Schönbrunn, set aside time to explore the gardens, Orangery, and Maze for the full experience.
Wiener Riesenrad in Vienna, Austria
For a truly magical view of Vienna, take a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel, the Wiener Riesenrad, at the Prater amusement park. You can see some of the city’s most iconic Christmas decorations and festivities from high in the sky, like the Wintermarkt at the Riesenradplatz and the city’s skyline. It can get chilly on the Ferris wheel during winter, so be sure to pack a hat and a scarf.
Eltmann, Germany
Eltmann, Germany Photo by Tilman2007 on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
If you’re looking for a quieter December experience, Eltmann makes a nice choice. While the Franconian town is noticeably less crowded than larger German cities, there are still small Christmas markets to explore and festive decorations to enjoy as you wander the old town. Along the way, stop by religious landmarks such as Marienkirche and Pfarrkirche St. Michael.
Eltmann is also a convenient gateway for excursions further afield, whether that’s exploring nearby Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city, or hiking among winter scenes in Steigerwald Nature Park, about an hour’s drive away.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava, Slovakia
When it comes to Christmas markets, Bratislava puts on a show, making it one of the best European cities to visit in December. The city’s largest market is held in the main square of the old town, featuring stalls that sell Slovak delicacies, mulled wine, and festive gifts. Another highlight is the Bratislava Castle Christmas Market, where vendors in medieval attire sell themed souvenirs and crafts.
If you’re lucky, you’ll see the city blanketed in snow. Bratislava Castle is beautiful any time of year, but it looks especially striking when the grounds are sparkling white. After exploring, head to a local wine bar, such as Old Vibe Winery or Grand Cru Wine Gallery, to sample some of Slovakia’s best varietals.
Mainz, Germany
Mainz, Germany
The main event in Mainz every December is definitely the Christmas market, set up around the city’s Cathedral of St. Martin. There are also a few smaller markets scattered throughout the city, which feel more intimate and cozy; it’s really up to you to decide which atmosphere you prefer.
If time allows, consider a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to learn about Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the printing press, or the Museum of Ancient Seafaring to see ancient ships up close. Another unique point of interest is the Sanctuary of Isis and Magna Mater, an excavated temple dedicated to the Egyptian and Anatolian goddesses, respectively.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is a must-visit in December. The city hosts several Christmas markets, including the main Christkindelsmärik at Place Broglie. Another popular one takes place in front of Strasbourg Cathedral, while Place Kléber is home to the city’s giant Christmas tree.
Since many of the markets are scattered across Strasbourg’s historic center, exploring them doubles as a walking tour of the city. Be sure to spend time in Petite France, a UNESCO-listed district filled with canals, half-timbered houses, and narrow alleyways.
Breisach, Germany
Breisach, Germany
Located just across the border from France, Breisach serves as a gateway to the Black Forest and Alsace. The medieval town center is easily explored on foot and really comes alive during the holiday season. In December, travelers can visit the town’s Christmas market, set up at St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The market is relatively small compared to other European cities. However, there’s still plenty of traditional food, local crafts, and mulled wine to enjoy.
Speaking of wine, Breisach is situated in the Baden wine region, and many local vineyards and wineries are open for business in December. Badischer Winzerkeller, for example, is one of Europe’s largest wine producers and is typically open year-round, including the winter season. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample local wines and explore Badischer Winzerkeller’s extensive cellar.
Basel, Switzerland
Basel, Switzerland
As Switzerland’s cultural capital, famed for its extensive museums, striking architecture, and the international Art Basel fair, Basel makes for a lovely December destination. Like many cities in the region, Christmas markets are the main draw. In Basel, the largest markets are held at Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, where travelers can shop for artisanal crafts, handmade ornaments, and festive treats.
The city also offers plenty of indoor attractions. Highlights include the Kunstmuseum Basel, home to one of the world’s oldest public art collections, and the Museum Tinguely, which features the works of artist Jean Tinguely. Families will also enjoy the Toy Worlds Museum, featuring a collection of over 6,000 toys and dollhouses.
What to Expect on a Trip to Europe in December
Mainz, Germany
While December is a popular time to visit Europe, especially for Christmas markets and festive decorations, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, the weather can be chilly, with average highs ranging from 32°F to 43°F and lows dipping below freezing. Snow is possible, but it’s more common to see overcast skies with drizzle or fog. Depending on your location, expect short daylight hours, with the sun setting around 4 p.m.
Budapest, Hungary
Big cities naturally draw larger crowds, while smaller towns may feel quieter. Winters in Europe are bustling ahead of the holidays. Yet, overall, there tend to be fewer tourists compared to spring or summer.
As for packing, layers are key. Bring a warm winter coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. Waterproof boots, a rain jacket, and an umbrella are also handy. In most cases, casual attire is perfectly acceptable in restaurants, but it’s best to pack a more formal outfit if you plan to dine at an upscale establishment or attend a concert.
Budapest, Hungary
Are you ready to celebrate the festive holiday season and experience Europe at its most magical? Browse Celebrity’s European river cruises and start planning your wintry escape today.
