Maybe this is the mulled wine memories talking but there is something magical about Europe in December. The Christmas markets, the old architecture, the cold weather and, of course, the hearty food gives it such an exciting and festive feel. It’s like being in a fairytale. I think everyone has to visit Europe in December at least once in their life, but where do you start? To be honest, you can’t really go wrong, but here is my round up of cities where you can experience a magical winter getaway. I’ve been to most of these but I added a couple that I haven’t been to yet but are high on my list. I’ll update the post after each visit. If you have a favorite that didn’t make the list, drop it in the comments.
Europe In December – 7 Destinations Where You’ll Get All The Winter Feels
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Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is legit like a fairytale in December. Let me be upfront and say that I’m not that into Christmas.
I don’t have a tree, I don’t send cards – it’s just more exciting for kids in my opinion.
But, the Christmas markets in Prague bring the city to life in such a way that even an old Grinch like me got caught up in the festive feelings.
Walking on the cobblestone streets, with a warm wine in hand and watching the tree light up each night almost gave me the excitement of being a kid at Christmas time.
There’s A LOT of delicious food to warm you up too.
More information: Here’s my travel guide for spending Christmas in Prague.
Christmas markets in Prague
Middle of nowhere, Norway
This is my favorite place in the world and is perfect for a quiet, cozy Christmas trip.
I actually love it so much that I recently went back to spend my 30th birthday there. It’s a little harder to get to since it’s remote but, in my opinion, it’s well worth the effort.
Here you can stay in the coziest of cabins, soak in the jacuzzi while watching the Northern Lights and warm up by a fire while sitting on reindeer skin.
Seriously, it’s the place of dreams and the best for a quiet escape.
More information: Read my full review here.
Christmas in northern Norway
Anywhere in Germany
Germany is perhaps the most well-known country for Christmas markets.
Nuremberg, Cologne, and Stuggart are some of the popular cities with impressive Christmas markets but, no matter where you stay in Germany, you’ll likely be near one because they’re everywhere.
I haven’t been to Germany in December yet, but from what I have read, it’s pretty dang magical.
Dolomites, Italy
I’ve written about it before so you probably know that I love visiting the Dolomites (here is my list of day trips if you’re interested) but visiting in December really gives the whole area a new energy.
Each town has Christmas markets filled with delicious food – seriously, it’s Italy so you know it’s the bee’s knees and the backdrop of the gorgeous mountains against the wooden stalls is just too picturesque.
It’s Italy, but not as you’ve seen in the travel magazines.
My favorite areas: Merano and Bolzano. If you can’t make it to the Dolomites, Lake Garda and Asiago are also good choices.
Christmas markets in Asiago
Budapest, Hungary
There’s something relaxing about soaking in warm, thermal water up to your shoulders while cold air hits your face and Budapest is the perfect place to experience just that.
There are a lot of thermal spas to choose from around the city, both indoor and outdoor, and even a beer spa!
Of course, like most European cities, the Christmas markets will add a little festive cheer to your visit to this charming city.
It’s great if you’re on a budget too because it’s relatively cheap.
More information: Check out my weekend guide for planning a visit to Budapest.
Outdoor pool in Budapest
Colmar, France
The picturesque Beauty and the Beast style city in France is pure Christmas magic.
There are multiple markets to walk around in and it’s easy to get to them on foot, there’s lots of amazing food – think baguettes, eclairs and loaded pretzels, and an unlimited amount of festive spirit in the air.
Just try and walk through these streets without twirling and singing ‘be our guest!’
There are also other towns in the area that I recommend visiting while you’re there and there’s more detail about those in my Colmar post.
More information: Read my post on the Colmar Christmas markets here.
Colmar, France
Tallinn, Estonia
Medieval Tallinn is another magical place to visit in winter.
I think it’s a great place to visit around Halloween too because it’s got some spooky vibes too, but the old town draped in Christmas market cheer is going to bring you all the magical winter feels as well.
Make sure you visit the Olde Hansa for a unique, medieval dining experience (it’s gimmicky but fun and you’ll get a great meal!)
More information: Check out my things to do in Tallinn guide.
Tallinn, Estonia
I hope this helps you plan a trip to Europe in December and narrows down some of the choices.
No matter where you end up going, enjoy your trip!
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Thanks for the ideas Katie….. my list just keeps getting longer but at least you have done the ground work for my lazy self. Those markets look amazing.
Haha that’s what I’m here for <3