December is a great time to visit Europe with fewer tourists, lower prices, and fun winter traditions. This guide shares the best countries to visit in Europe in December for a special and budget-friendly holiday.
Winter might seem like an odd time to visit Europe, but December brings some unique perks that make it a worthwhile Destination. Not only will you find cheaper flights and accommodations, but you’ll also escape the crazy summer crowds. And when you visit these best countries to visit in Europe in December, you’ll get to experience authentic winter traditions that most tourists miss out on. In this guide, we’ll list down the best countries to visit in Europe in December for you.
December, being the snowfall season in Europe, it transforms Europe and covers it with a white blanket of snow. Before packing your warmest clothes, you must check out our Europe Tour Packages that can save you the hassle of planning everything yourself.
Best for: Christmas markets, festive traditions, and historic towns
If there’s one place that knows how to celebrate winter properly, it’s probably Germany. The country that gave the world Christmas trees and gingerbread houses transforms into a winter paradise in December.
Berlin’s Christmas markets are something you must visit, with hundreds of wooden stalls selling things like handcrafted ornaments, steaming mugs of Gluhwein (mulled wine). The smell alone will make you forget about the cold. You must also visit Cologne’s market, which is famous for its Gothic church, and the medieval towns in the Black Forest region, which look extra beautiful under a blanket of snow.
Germany’s winter festivals and traditions make it one of the famous countries to visit in Europe in December, especially for those who want to experience the authentic Christmas spirit.
Best for: Alpine scenery, luxury winter experiences, and snow sports
There’s something truly special about Switzerland in winter. We know that Switzerland is famous for its tall mountains and lakes, and in December, lakes get frozen, mountains get snow-covered, and wooden chalets throughout the country increase their price as all the crowds book these to enjoy the winter while surrounded by a bonfire.
Zermatt offers some of the best skiing experiences in the world with the iconic Matterhorn mountain. Even if you’re not into skiing, the Glacier Express train journey will leave you speechless.
For a truly unique experience, visit the Christmas market in Montreux on Lake Geneva. Switzerland remains one of the best countries to visit in Europe in December for travelers seeking both adventure and heavenly scenery.
Best for: Classical music, royal architecture, and Alpine beauty
Austria combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of the top countries to visit in Europe in December. Austria feels like a different era during winter. The grand palaces of Vienna, dusted with snow and decorated with lights, bring an old-world elegance to it, that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace (a great European Musician), hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets dating back to the 15th century. For adventure lovers, the Austrian Alps offer world-class skiing at resorts like St. Anton and Kitzbuhel.
Best for: Romantic winter getaways, and culinary experiences
December in France offers a completely different image from our usual image of lavender fields and sunny vineyards. Paris, the City of Light, truly lives up to its name in winter when the Champs-Elysees (a popular street in Paris) sparkles with thousands of lights and the glittering Eiffel Tower. Winter in France means fewer tourists and more chances to enjoy its famous cuisine without waiting.
Strasbourg in eastern France hosts one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets, with a tradition dating back to 1570. Here you can try Alsatian treats like bredele (Christmas cookies) and warming vin chaud(mulled wine). For snow lovers, the French Alps provide spectacular skiing in resorts like Chamonix and Val d’Isere.
For more detailed information on seasonal attractions and tips, check out our Europe Travel Guide.
Best for: Northern Lights, Santa Claus experience, and winter activities
Finland in December is as close as you’ll get to a real winter wonderland. In Finnish Lapland, the sun barely rises, creating a mysterious blue twilight perfect for spotting the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, which is an amusement park that is considered to be the home of Santa. You can cross the Arctic Circle, ride in a reindeer sleigh, or zoom through forests on a husky sled.
Finland’s unique Arctic experiences make it one of the most famous countries to visit in Europe in December. For a truly unforgettable experience, spend a night in an igloo hotel with a glass roof, watching the Northern Lights.
Best for: Winter landscapes, fjords, and Northern Lights
Norway/s breathtaking winter scenery, complemented by the Northern Lights, makes it one of the top countries to visit in Europe in December. Norway is a land of extremes in winters – fjords sided by snow-covered mountains, fishing villages illuminated by twinkling lights, and skies painted with the beauty of Northern Lights.
Visit Tromso, located well above the Arctic Circle, for your best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. The almost total darkness might sound strange, but it creates perfect conditions for this natural light show.
Best for: Affordable winter experience, historical architecture, and festive markets
The Czech Republic offers a magical winter experience that won’t empty your wallet. Prague’s Old Town Square hosts a Christmas market that transforms the medieval center completely snow covered.
The city’s Gothic architecture looks even more fascinating against the winter sky, and there’s nothing better than warming up in a traditional Czech pub with a plate of European cuisine.
Don’t miss Prague Castle illuminated against the night sky or Charles Bridge in the early morning when it’s covered in mist rising from the Vltava River. For the best experience, visit during the first two weeks of December when markets are in full swing but the holiday crowds haven’t arrived yet.
Learn more about seasonal timing for European destinations in our guide on the Best time to visit Europe.
Best for: Cultural experiences, fewer tourists, and Alpine-Mediterranean contrasts
Italy’s combination of spiritual traditions, cultural treasures, and winter activities makes it one of the best countries to visit in Europe in December. Italy in December is a mix-and-match experience of religious traditions, winter sports, and relatively quiet and peaceful at normally packed tourist sites.
Venice takes on a mysterious quality in winter, with misty canals and squares free from the usual crowds. You might even experience “acqua alta” (high water) where parts of the city temporarily flood – locals just put on rubber boots and set up elevated walkways. In the north, the Dolomites offer excellent budget skiing without the price tag of French or Swiss resorts.
Best for: Natural wonders, geothermal experiences, and otherworldly landscapes
Iceland in December might sound scary, but this island nation knows how to do winter right. Short daylight hours (sometimes just 4-5 hours) create perfect conditions for Northern Lights viewing, while the snow-covered landscapes feel like another planet.
Reykjavik transforms into a festive hub with Christmas decorations and the unique tradition of 13 Yule Lads (Iceland’s version of Santa) who visit on the 13 days leading up to Christmas.
The true magic lies in contrasts – you can enjoy naturally heated geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon while snow falls around you. Iceland’s incredible winter experiences make it among the top countries to visit in Europe in December. Now if you’re looking for a more specific travel destination? Check out our guide on the Best Places to visit in Europe.
Best for: Milder winter temperatures, unique holiday traditions, and fewer tourists
If you’re not a fan of extreme cold, Spain offers a gentler winter experience while still delivering a festive atmosphere. Barcelona’s Christmas markets and light displays provide holiday spirit without the freezing temperatures.
In Madrid, join locals in the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve for good luck in the coming year. The city transforms into lively venues for celebration, with far fewer tourists than in summer months.
Seville in Andalusia even offers sunny days warm enough to enjoy outdoor cafes. Spain’s milder climate and unique winter celebrations make it one of the famous countries to visit in Europe in December.
This was a complete guide for the best countries to visit in Europe in December.
Just remember to pack layers, comfortable waterproof boots, and an adventurous spirit. Winter in Europe might challenge your comfort zone, especially to Indians as we’re used to a warmer climate.
A. Germany is the best country to visit in December. It has famous Christmas markets, beautiful cities like Berlin and Munich, and pretty snowy views. You can enjoy shopping, food, and winter fun all in one place.
A. Yes, it is worth going to Europe in December. You can see Christmas decorations, enjoy fewer crowds, try winter sports, and find cheaper deals. Whole Europe looks beautiful with lights and festive markets everywhere.
A. The Canary Islands in Spain are the warmest place in Europe in December. The weather stays around 20°C, so you can enjoy the sun, beaches, and outdoor fun while other places are cold.
A. The Czech Republic is one of the cheapest places to visit in December. You can see pretty winter views, visit Christmas markets, and stay in good hotels — all in your budget.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Europe
Must Read: Things to do in Europe
