Europe In December: Places To Visit & Things To Do In- 2024
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Europe In December: A Complete Guide For A Trip

Get ready to explore a snowy wonderland as you travel to Europe in December with your friends and family. As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Europe is home to never-seen-before experiences in winter. Some of the top places to visit in Europe in December are the ones where you can enjoy snowfall, Christmas markets, and year-end festivities.

The real charm of a Europe tour in December is in its vibrant celebrations of Christmas, when markets light up in cheer. You can’t miss chasing the Northern Lights, which are best seen on December nights around the Arctic Circle. And if you love adventures, Europe is ideal for winter sports in December, ranging from skiing and ice skating to glacier hiking.

Be it the historical landmarks of Paris and Germany or the snow-filled wonderland of Interlaken and Scotland, Europe has something for everyone in December. Admire the beauty of popular tourist landmarks without the crowds as December is the waning season for tourists. Plan your Europe vacation in December with Thrillophilia so you don’t miss out on anything and enjoy a stress-free time with loved ones.
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Essential Information About Europe In December

01

Weather Conditions Of Europe In December

Weather in Europe in December can be extremely cold and dry, with temperatures ranging between 7 degrees to -10 degrees Celsius. Most regions receive heavy snowfall and cold winds, which makes it a low season for tourism in Europe.

Northern Europe sees the coldest temperatures and most towns see people shifting to warmer places to survive the harsh winter. Despite cold, Europe in December is a great time to explore major cities and their attractions as the crowds are fewer.

This is also the month when you can witness the cheer of Christmas and its vibrant markets. Many festivals are also held this month for visitors.

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Places To Visit In Europe In December

02

Interlaken

Situated in the lap of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken is among the best places in Europe to visit in December. Participate in an endless variety of snow sports like winter kayaking, sledging, ice skating, snowboarding, hiking and skiing. Admire the frozen Lake Brienz and Lake Thun in the backdrop of the snow-covered mountains in Interlaken.

Location – Switzerland, Central Europe

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03

Valencia

One of the best places to visit in Europe in December, Valencia has many museums and Christmas markets for exploration. You can go for wine tours, try ice skating, hike in the mountains and nature trails, and explore the Old Town here. Visit Albufera Natural Park and see birds in migration as you hike through the forest.

Location – Spain, Southwestern Europe

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04

Cyprus

Witness the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kato Paphos and other historical sites of Cyprus without the summer heat in this month. Discover a unique mix of Greek and Turkish cuisines as you try Cypriot delicacies like souvlaki and halloumi. Hike through mountain trails, go on off road jeep tours, ski in the Troodos mountains, and soak in the winter sun in the coastal towns here.

Location – Mediterranean Sea, Middle East

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05

Prague

Discover the charm of Prague’s attractions like St Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle without the crowds in Europe in December. Explore the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and attend a mesmerising opera performance. Try delicious dumplings and beer in the freezing cold of Prague this month.

Location – Czech Republic, Central Europe

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06

Iceland

Among the top places in Europe tourism in December, Iceland is best known for the Northern Lights experience in this month. Explore famous destinations in Iceland like Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, the Westfjords, and Reynisfjara Beach. Participate in a variety of thrilling snow activities like skiing, glacier hiking, sledging, ice skating, snowboarding, glacier climbing, and camping.

Location – North Atlantic Ocean, south of the Arctic Circle

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07

Reykjavík

The capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavík is nestled on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, in southwestern Iceland. Founded by the Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson in 874, this city was just a small fishing village until the 20th century. The city was granted municipal and administrative powers in 1786 and it was declared the capital of Iceland in 1918. At present, Reykjavík is an important fishing port and the cultural, industrial, and commercial hub of the country.

The beauty of Reykjavík lies in its scenic natural beauty and intoxicating nightlife culture. The colourful traditional houses, quaint cafes, and lush public gardens add to the appeal of this flamboyant city.

One of the main attractions of the city of Reykjavík is its pristine swimming pools. Some of the top pools that you can head to for a refreshing dive include Laugardalslaug pool, Sundhöll Reykjavíkur, and Nautholsvik. Other prime places of interest in Reykjavík include the Hallgrimskirkja Church, the Harpa Concert Hall and Old Harbor, and the Statue of Leif Eiriksson.

While you are in Reykjavík, you can engage in a myriad of exciting activities. You can enjoy shopping at the Kolaportið Flea Market, go whale watching, and take a Northern Lights tour. You can also relax in one of the public parks or spend some time at the Reykjavík Art Gallery.

Reykjavík experiences a subpolar oceanic climate with cool summers and colder winters. The most ideal time to visit Reykjavik is between June and August, when the weather is balmy and you can experience the ‘Midnight Sun’

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08

Prague

Over the years, Prague has earned a sobriquet of "city of a thousand spires." As you pass though the 1100 year old skyline, you’ll be rewarded with the mesmerizing views of the umpteen splendid views of the soaring old towers and the lovely domed churches which together make Prague one of the most fascinating architectural gem of Europe. No matter where you look, you’ll come across phenomenal examples of Baroque, Gothic, Art Nouveau and Renaissance styles of architecture that dot the city. Together these offer a dramatic contrast to the sturdy ancient Prague Castle. Acquiring one of the best preserved historical centers of Europe, the narrow laneways of Prague open up into spectacular squares, each of which are home to historical buildings and fine old homes just waiting to be explored. Being one of the largest city in Europe, Prague still continues to be a pivotal cultural, political and commercial center. It has played a role a pivotal role as the erstwhile capital of the Holy Roman Empire for centuries. Today, Rome is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a major draw for the tourists from far and wide. The city majorly lures the visitors who come here mainly for lively entertainment as well as rich music and theatre scenes.

 

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09

Budapest

Budapest is one of the most famous holiday destination as there are numerous tourist places in Budapest. Hungary is a country which is very rich in its culture and heritage, and the same can be said about Budapest. Budapest is said to be the ‘Paris of the East’ because of its romantic aura and natural beauty. It is a treat to visit Budapest. Historically, Budapest has been a very literary and artistic city.

The people here love art and this can be witnessed in the many museums which Budapest has. The Hungarian National Museum, located in Budapest, is the largest museum in Hungary. It was built in 1802 and is a museum of art, history, and archaeology. House of Terror is a very renowned museum and it contains things related to the communist and fascist regimes. One place which one should definitely go to in Budapest is the Buda Castle. The Buda Castle has been the historical castle of all the kings who have reigned here. The castle is majestic and one cannot stop marveling the architecture of the monument.

One thing that is unique about Hungary is their bath. Baths are very famous in Hungary and Budapest has some of the best baths in the country. The Gellert Bath is magnanimous. There are different types of pool in this place and also has a world-class spa. Budapest is the best place to visit if one love art and history as the place boasts best the museums in the world. With numerous attractions to admire as well as shopping places to explore Budapest offers you one of the perfect locations to visit for your vacations.

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10

London

London city is a memoir of cobbled streets and hidden gems, and you’re bound to unravel a new side of it every time you’re over here. It is located in the Southeastern area of Great Britain and has something for everyone. London has the popular places to visit in England from history and culture to fine food and good times. London is packed with conventional tourist spots, and the best way to explore the city is to discover the lesser-known nooks and crannies. The capital is known for its world-class cuisines, fashion statement, and superb shopping. 

There are various art galleries in London that have preserved the rich culture and history of this city. From museums to aquariums to giant shopping centers to world-class hotels and restaurants, you’ll find everything in London to keep you on your toes. London tourism has significantly increased in recent times because of the new avenues it has added in its already diverse historical and cultural scene. you can feel like being in the royal era by visiting Buckingham Palace, and you can recreate the scenes of your favorite movies at Warner Bros studio

London also offers tons of enthralling activities like strolling through the garden, watching shows at performing art venues and pedaling the fastest cycle track at Queen Elizabeth Park. You can also take a boat ride down the Thames River and you can try white water rafting at the Olympic course. In London the winters are very cold, windy and long while the summers are partly cloudy, comfortable and short. The daily lows range between 6 degrees to 13 degrees Celsius and the daily highs range between 12 degrees to 18 degrees Celsius. The overall weather here is generally temperate marine which means not higher than 32 degrees Celsius in summers and not less than 0 degrees Celsius in winters.

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11

Stockholm

Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and has 14 islands and 50 bridges. It is closer to the Baltic Sea. You will find cobblestone streets, ochre buildings, cathedrals that are from 13th century, Royal Palaces, museums, boat and ferry rides for sightseeing and many things to do in this city. This is a cosmopolitan city and has picturesque parks, landmarks, scenic spots on the islands, and many historic sites. There are many waterways and lush green sites in and around this city. This is a city where you can see classical as well as modern architecture. There are many places of attraction, buildings, streets, and landmarks that can be visited.

Fashion and beauty in Stockholm is top notch. This is also a great place to shop for clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and gifts. Gamla Stan is the town to be visited as it has been depicted in many of the story books. There are also forests and umpteen spaces of archipelago that can be visited. The climate of the city is usually mild throughout the year. Summers have a dramatic sunlight and July and August are monsoon months. Arlanda is the international airport in Stockholm. Within the city you can take the bus and rail to commute. 

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12

Innsbruck


13

Granada

Granada is a city in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s known for its Moorish architecture and landmarks such as the Alhambra, a 14th-century fortress and palace complex. The city also has elaborate Gothic cathedrals, royal chapels and parks.

Granada is full of history and culture. It was founded in the 8th century by the Moors, and many of its buildings still reflect this heritage. Apart from Alhambra, other notable buildings include the Granada Cathedral and the Royal Chapel, both built in the 15th century. There are also many excellent museums in Granada, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Science. And if you’re a fan of Flamenco music and dance, you’ll be interested to know that it originated in this region of Spain. 

Wander the warren of streets in the atmospheric Albayzín district and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time – this is Granada’s old Moorish quarter, where flamenco was first performed in public. Or take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Generalife, Summer Palace of the Nasrid rulers of Granada. Discover Granada’s Christian heritage at the city’s cathedral, one of Spain’s largest churches, or visit the Royal Chapel, final resting place of Isabel and Fernando, Spain’s legendary ‘Catholic Monarchs’. For sweeping views over Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains beyond,hike up to the Mirador de San Nicolás viewpoint. 

Granada has a reputation for being one of the coldest cities in Spain, but this is only true for a few days in winter. From December to February, average temperatures range from 0ºC to 10ºC, with occasional snowfall on the Sierra Nevada. But Granada is also one of the sunniest cities in Europe, so even on the coldest days there are usually blue skies. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, when the days are warm and sunny but not too hot, and there are fewer crowds than in summer.

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14

Milan

Milan, Italian Milano, is a beautiful city and capital of Lombardy, northern Italy. The city has become the leading financial, manufacturing, and commercial centre of Italy with its deep roots in history. Milan resides in the heart of the Po Basin of northern Italy, enveloped amidst the plan spreading between the Ticino and Adda rivers. Milan’s beauty showcases different periods of historical crisis, architectural and organic structure development. These periods largely include the beauty of the cathedrals, four-gated city of Mediolanum, and intricately constructed neighbourhoods. The Spanish domination brought various changes to the architectural trends which resulted in the involvement of pastel colours and brick structures. 

Milan has more than its share of attractions along with iconic historical edifices. The city’s icons are filled with an influential and rich cultural heritage. Milan’s Duomo boasts of Gothic architecture and serves as the most visited tourist attraction. For art fanatics, the city has a plethora of art museums, Leonardi Da Vinci’s Last Supper and Pinacoteca di Brera. If you wish to explore the bohemian side of Milan, head to the neighbourhoods of Ticinese and Porta Romana. When it comes to things to do in Milan, there are plenty of options to dive into. Embrace the local trend of aperitivo at the Brera neighbourhood and cherish the “When in Milan, do as the Milanese do” vibe.

Lined up with chic cafes and bars, tourists often visit this place for admiring the Renaissance-style architecture. Or, you can head to Navigli to cruise over the canals of Milan. If you’re a shopaholic then head to the shopping haven of Milan, Galleria Emmanuele II. 
Milan has a continental and humid subtropical climate. The temperature is majorly affected by the Alps and the Apennine Mountains. These plains act as a natural barrier to protect Milan from major circulations of northern Europe and the sea. Here, weather usually witness hot and humid summers, damp and chilly winters, and heavy rainfall.

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Things To Do In Europe In December

15

Visit Historic Landmarks Of Germany

Witness the charming fairytale-like castles of Germany like Neuschwanstein Castle covered in snow, one of the best places to visit in December in Europe. Admire the beauty of Cologne Cathedral, Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Marienplatz and different landmarks during your tour. Learn about the intriguing history of Germany as you go on guided tours of World War II landmarks like the Dachau Concentration Camp and the Holocaust Memorial.

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16

Explore The Charming Alpine Village Of Zermatt

Watch the stunning beauty of the Matterhorn from the village of Zermatt as you visit one of the best places in Europe in December. Visit the Matterhorn Museum and relish delicious local dishes at the restaurants and eateries around the village. Go on a village tour and participate in thrilling activities like skiing, cable car rides, and hiking here.

Location – Southern Switzerland

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17

Wander Through The Attractions Of Paris

Walk through the City of Love in the chill of December as you head to Europe in December. Visit attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre Dame Cathedral with your loved ones. Try popular Parisian delicacies like crepes, croissants, macarons and baguettes at the famous bakeries in the city.

Also ReadEurope In November
18

Explore The Vibrant Christmas Markets In Barcelona

Barcelona’s vibrant and colourful Christmas markets make it one of the best places to experience Europe tourism in December. Explore the Fair of Santa Lucia, Sagrada Familia market, and Gran Via Kings Fair as you shop for Christmas décor. As you take a break from your shopping spree, try local Christmas delicacies like escudella, cannelloni, turron and cava at the restaurants here.

You Can Also Read: Europe In January
19

Experience The Magical Atmosphere Of Amsterdam

Feel the magic of Christmas markets in Amsterdam, which is one of the best places in Europe to visit in December. Attend the Annual Light Festival, try winter sports like ice skating, and explore museums in fewer crowds. Go for canal cruises and bike tours through the city with your loved ones.

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People Also Ask About Switzerland

  1. Is December a good time to visit Europe?

    Yes, December is a great time to visit Europe. Europe tourism in December is comparatively less due to cold weather conditions, which means crowds are fewer at popular landmarks. Accommodations and flights are also cheap in this period, so you can plan a budget-friendly experience filled with adventure.
  2. How many days are enough to explore Europe?

    Seven to ten days are enough to explore the best places to visit in Europe in December. This is ample time to explore the major cities and towns, visit popular attractions, and try fun activities. You can cover a lot of countries and experiences if you plan your itinerary well.
  3. Is it expensive to visit Europe in December?

    No, Europe in December is not expensive for tourism purposes. Winter marks the waning season for visitors due to the cold conditions, which means accommodations and flights are cheaper in this period. Since the crowds are less, you can comfortably explore the attractions and landmarks without waiting in long queues.
Newly Added Switzerland Experience

Switzerland Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Switzerland
23 January 2020
Excellent
The Mount Titlis Day Tour with Cable Car was a delightful experience for me. I was traveling with my spouse. The views were gorgeous and something that I can never forget about, it was dramatically gorgeous. If you are visiting Switzerland then Mount Titlis cable car ride is a great way to spend some time in the arms of nature and enjoy a great time. I was also able to capture some really good photos of the cute little snow penguins.
10 February 2020
Excellent
The fully rotating cable car experience topped with interacting with the snow penguins makes for a really fun time to enjoy. I recommend everyone should once visit the Mount Titlis and do the Cable Car ride. And I must say that the view from the cable car was amazing.
04 November 2019
Excellent
It was great to spend such a great evening enjoying a ton of fun activities. I had a lot fun sledding and I must say that the fondue dinner was delicious. Fun and food, a great way to spend a night indeed.
10 December 2019
Anilaabh Bharadwaj Night Sledding Interlaken
Excellent
The dinner was on point, the activities were really fun and I along with my kids had a lot of fun exploring the night night sledding experience. If you are in interlaken you have to take one night out and enjoy this thrilling adventure with your family or your friends. The drinks served were also delicious.
19 September 2019
Excellent
The best fun I had at night in Switzerland was with sulwald Sledding experience at Interlaken. The activities are really organized and the guide gives thorough instruction about the details of the night. I must say that these instructions can get really boring but the guide found a way to make it really fun. I and my partner I was able to get into the action really fast with Sledging which followed dinner. All in all, I must thank Thrillophilia for making our night adventurous.
24 October 2019
Excellent
Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour was an amazing experience. We could visit a number of tourist attractions and sight the mesmerizing views of the white mountains. A delightful and fun filled tour indeed. Thanks to the team Thrillophilia and our guide for making it happen.
13 November 2019
Superb
The overall service was satisfactory and very cost effective at the same time.
05 October 2019
Girindra Pillai Zurich Airport Transfers
Excellent
The experience of being received at the Zurich Airport was very smooth. The car had arrived at the location on time and we had a very comfortable ride.
10 February 2020
Excellent
The place is perfect for half a day trip. It takes around 5 hours to completely enjoy every part of the museum and it is the place worth visiting. Everything about the museum is great, I mean the first thought in my head when I heard the museum was boring but the Swiss Museum Of Transport is completely opposite. There are a ton of fun activities to do and cars to admire.
28 August 2019
Superb
We took a ton of pictures and explored a number of ancient and modern transportation vehicles. Overall, a fun place to visit.

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