What are the best places to visit in Europe in December? Whether you’re looking for Christmas related trips, cold weather, or some winter sun, I have you covered in this guide to December travel in Europe.
With schools breaking up for the Christmas holidays in December, this is an excellent time of the year to travel and the best thing about going on holiday in Europe in December is the amount of options there are!
From City Breaks with the best Christmas markets in the world to world-class Ski Resorts and Winter Sun Islands, there are many options for the best places to visit in Europe in December!
Looking for warm destinations only?? See my post: 14 WARM Places to Visit in DECEMBER in EUROPE!
⛄ Best Places for Snow and Northern Lights in December in Europe
Here are the places to visit for Christmas magic that is most likely to come with a side of snow and places you are also likely to see the Northern Lights from in December.
1. Rovaniemi, Finland
One of the best places to visit in Europe in December is Rovaniemi! Located in the Lapland region of Finland, this city is a breathtaking destination. It’ll put you in the holiday spirit and give you memories to last a lifetime. There are so many things to do in Rovaniemi, but in December, getting in the Christmas spirit is at the top of the list. Rovaniemi is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus and is located on the Arctic Circle, making it a prime destination for a Christmas getaway.
One of the highlights is Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself, explore the Santa Claus Post Office, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The village is adorned with twinkling lights, snowy landscapes, and cheerful holiday decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that will bring out the childlike wonder in visitors of all ages.
You can also enjoy the snow by going snowmobiling, taking a reindeer sledge ride, or even going dog sledging. All of these can be family-friendly but also get your heart racing! Be sure to bundle up as the temperatures are often below freezing, even during the day. Suggested by: Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
Looking for the best places to visit in Europe in December for snow and winter activities? If so, then be sure to head to Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. After all, this city is covered in snow and is a magical winter wonderland where you can regularly see the northern lights dancing through the sky since the city only receives around four hours of daylight a day.
However, if you really want to enjoy the natural beauty of the northern lights, hop on the Golden Circle and take it to Þingvellir National Park. You can also go to nearby Lake Kleifarvatn on the Reykjanes Peninsula as part of a fun day trip from the city.
You’ll also love that Reykjavik is bedazzled with tons of vibrant Christmas decorations that you can see as you wander through the streets. However, you cannot visit Iceland in December without checking out Yule Town at Ingólfstorg. Not only is the decor amazing but you can go ice skating on a big ice rink that sits in the center of the market. Suggested by: Victoria of Iceland Trippers
3. Alta, Norway
December is one of the most magical times to visit Europe, especially if you travel North to the Arctic Circle. One of the most beautiful places to visit in this region is the Norwegian town of Alta, also known as “the town of the Northern Lights”. It is home to only 20,000 people, yet it remains the most populated area in the Finnmark County, and can be reached by cruise ship, or by plane from Oslo in 2 hours, or by car in 5.5 hours from Tromso.
Located at 70 degrees north latitude means that during winter (late November to mid-January), Alta experiences the polar night. This is when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon, meaning the whole area is shrouded in darkness most of the day except a few hours in the afternoon when there is a twilight blue glow. For most people this takes some getting used to, however, it does provide optimal conditions for the town’s biggest draw, the Northern Lights.
Other popular winter wonderland activities in Alta include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and dogsledding. There are also plenty of great attractions such as the Northern Lights Cathedral, Alta Museum and the famous ice hotel at Sorrisniva to make your winter destinations in Europe memorable! Suggested by: Roshni from The Wanderlust Within
4. Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are a mountain range located in northern Italy and are one of the best places to visit in Europe in December. The mountain peaks are tall and jagged and the lakes are Gatorade blue. It’s a super unique and gorgeous winter getaway destination. Visiting in December calls for unparalleled skiing and a Christmas wonderland.
The Dolomites are quite large with many towns located throughout. You will want to select the town you want to stay in based on the activities that are important to you. However, some good options are Ortisei, Cortina or Val d’Ega. Plan to stay as long as you can, but four days in the Dolomites should be the minimum!
Getting here is easy as Milan is only a few hours away. From there you can either drive or take the train. It’s best to have a car so you can explore the area easily on your own! If you enjoy skiing or other winter sports, then you’ll probably want to spend a lot of your time doing that. Select one of the 20+ ski resorts in the Dolomites to stay and or visit to hit the slopes! Suggested by: Adam and Kathryn of Adventures of A+K
🎄Best Christmas Markets in Europe in December
Here’s a list of where to visit in Europe in December for the best Christmas markets!
5. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is known as one of the best places to visit in Europe during Christmas in the world, thus is a fantastic option for a winter getaway in Europe. Throughout December the main event is the annual Christmas market, Christkindlesmarkt. This is spread throughout the old town and is a real treat of lights, decorations and festive foods or drinks. The main Christmas Market is in Hauptmarkt, a picturesque town square which is home to the gothic Frauenkirche, hence is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.
The backdrop of Nuremberg city certainly adds to the visit with its beautiful churches, a castle on the hill and timber-framed buildings. The top attractions in Nuremberg are still open throughout the city in December. This includes the Imperial Castle on the hill overlooking the city. Suggested by: Rich from RJOnTour
6. Prague, Czechia
Visiting Prague in December is all about Christmas. Most Christmas markets start at the end of November and last until December 24th. The way the city dresses for the occasion of Christmas is beyond beautiful. Prague’s main Christmas market can be found at the Old Town Square. It has everything you could look for in a market, including local treats, mulled wine, and hot mead. There’s usually a massive tree and a stage with Christmas concerts. However, it’s also the most crowded Christmas market of all.
For a more intimate Christmas market experience, head to the smaller ones. E.g. the Christmas market at Náměstí míru is still within walking distance from the city centre and provides a market of a smaller size, yet lacking nothing. The market is held right in front of the church of St. Ludmila, which is quite magnificent on its own.
And then there’s the Prague Castle Christmas market. Personally, I find it to be the most charming one of all. Even though it’s primarily geared at tourists, it doesn’t take away from the magic. Prague Castle buildings, with the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral at its heart, provide a unique setting for any event. If you get lucky and experience some snowfall while in Prague, you’ll truly feel like you’re living in a fairy tale. Suggested by: Veronika from Travel Geekery
7. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a budget-friendly yet beautiful city to explore, especially during the month of December. The city has lots of history, tasty food, great beer, and a variety of things to do, including Christmas markets that’s why people head to Budapest when looking for the best places to visit in Europe in December.
Budapest turns into a Christmas Market haven at the end of November and runs through December and is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Strolling through Budapest, you can find multiple Christmas Markets offering locally made gifts and serving delicious Hungarian specialities such as chimney cake, Palacsinta, or marzipan.
The best and biggest Budapest Christmas market takes place in Vörösmarty Square, in the heart of Budapest. In addition to the amazing foods and gift ideas, Hungarian bands offer free concerts daily in the square. Suggested by: Adam & Hannah from Getting Stamped
8. Berlin, Germany
You won’t regret coming for the Berlin Christmas markets, solidifying Berlin’s reputation as one of the best winter holiday destinations in Europe. One of the best markets to visit in Berlin is the WeihnachtsZauber at Gendarmenmarkt Christmas market, usually called Gendarmenmarkt for the square where it normally takes place. This market has a lovely setting, even at its temporary location, and it oozes holiday charm. You’ll find traditional Christmas market food and mulled wine, and plenty of specialty stalls selling gifts and tree ornaments.
Another great market to check out is Lucia at Kulturbrauerei. This one has a Nordic theme, and you’ll find food and drinks from Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and other Nordic countries. It’s in the courtyard of a former brewery, and the red brick buildings make for a cosy setting.
If you’re in Berlin at New Year’s, you can experience one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world. It takes place near Brandenburg Gate, and the roads are closed off to make room for stages to be set up. Suggested by: Ali from Berlin Travel Tips
9. Halstatt, Austria
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Europe in December with family, the fairytale town of Hallstatt, Austria couldn’t be more perfect. The town, situated on the turquoise shores of Lake Hallstatt, is known for its colorful gingerbread homes, perched amongst pine trees on the slopes of the Alps. During wintertime, though, the homes’ rafters are festooned with twinkling lights, festive garland, and, oftentimes, glistening icicles.
Beyond its general whimsical appearance, though, Hallstatt goes all out for Christmas every year on December 8th, when the town transforms into a Christmas market. There are plenty of things to do in Hallstatt during this time of year—you can peruse the local vendors’ booths, hawking handmade mittens, ornaments, or wooden toys; admire the life-sized wooden Nativity scene, hand-crafted by the local carpentry school; or tuck into some holiday goodies, like a steaming mug of glühwein or Hallstatt’s iconic cookies. Suggested by: Jess from Uprooted Traveler
10. Lucerne, Switzerland
Visiting Lucerne in December provides numerous benefits, starting with the captivating holiday atmosphere that fills the city. Sparkling lights and festive decorations adorn the streets, casting a warm and welcoming glow over the entire area. The old town becomes a hub of joy and merriment with its delightful Christmas markets, making it one of the best places to visit in Europe in December.
Beyond the festive ambience, Lucerne’s natural beauty is accentuated by the winter scenery. Blanketed in a layer of snow, the city’s stunning landscapes become even more picturesque. Take a leisurely boat ride on the glistening Lake Lucerne, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, or venture to Mount Pilatus via a cogwheel train for panoramic views and exhilarating winter activities like sledging and snowshoeing. The pristine snowscapes provide the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories.
For winter sports enthusiasts, Lucerne offers convenient access to nearby ski resorts, providing opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. Additionally, the frozen lakes, including Lake Lucerne, offer the chance to partake in the joy of ice skating. Suggested by: Lavina D’Souza from Continent Hop
11. London, U.K
From winter festivals to Christmas markets to Christmas decorations, there are many reasons why London is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December. Checking out the Christmas markets is one of the most fun activities in December and you can find these at many spots throughout the city. For example, the Southbank Centre Winter Market and the Christmas Market at Covent Garden are great ones.
Furthermore, there are many events that take place in December. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is one of the best festivals to attend in London. This is a Christmas event that takes place in Hyde Park and during it, many activities can be done.Another event to attend is Christmas at Kew, which is a festival at Kew Gardens during which you can see all kinds of beautiful lights. Lots of special concerts take place in London as well. For example, you can go to the Royal Albert Hall for a special Christmas concert. Suggested by: Daniel from North Carolina Travel Guides
🏛️ Best City Breaks in Europe in December
Here are some of the great city break ideas in Europe. These cities will have a Christmas market or two but the focus of visiting them isn’t only Christmas markets.
12. Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy is the perfect place in Europe to visit in December! The city is much less crowded in December, so you will have an easier time seeing Rome’s iconic monuments and getting tickets for popular tours and attractions such as the Colosseum, the Borghese Gallery, and the Vatican.
It’s a much more pleasant experience strolling through famous Rome piazzas when they aren’t thronged with tourists. You can really take your time to relax, enjoy the gorgeous fountains and sculptures, and get that perfect picture. Take in the beauty of Piazza Navona with Bernini’s stunning Fontana dei Fiumi, see the Pantheon in the Piazza della Rotunda, and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome!
December in Rome is extra special as the city lights up to celebrate the holidays. making it one of the best winter holiday destinations in Europe. Shops and monuments sparkle with Christmas lights and festive decorations. And be sure to visit Rome’s best Christmas market. It’s held in Piazza Navona and is open from the 8th of December through to the 6th of January. Suggested by: Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones
13. Lisbon, Portugal
In the list of best places to visit in Europe during Christmas, how can one forget Lisbon? Even in December, Lisbon is a city that’s worth visiting. While temperatures will be cooler than usual and you may run into some rain, the overall climate remains mild in Lisbon in December.
Usually a great place for foodies, in December you can sample seasonal treats as well. Try the Broas Castelares, a holiday cookie with sweet potato as one of its main ingredients. Or, sample a slice of Bolo Rei, Lisbon’s traditional Christmas cake. Enjoy the Christmas lights hung all across the city, and spend a few hours at the Christmas markets like the one in Rossio Square. There, you’ll find plenty of stalls selling unique gifts to bring home as souvenirs. Sample the hot chocolate, mulled wine, roasted nuts and a variety of other snacks for sale at the market. Suggested by: Nausheen of Globe Gazers
14. Porto, Portugal
One of the reasons why Porto is a great place to visit in December is the fewer tourists. With the peak tourist season long gone, you can experience the city’s attractions without the crowds which makes it one of the best winter holiday destinations in Europe.
Another advantage is the pleasant weather. While winter brings cooler temperatures, they remain mild compared to other European cities. The cooler temperatures are ideal for strolling through Porto’s enchanting streets, sipping on a cup of hot Port wine and enjoying the city’s festive decorations. A visit to Majestic Café in December is a must. This iconic café, adorned with beautiful Art Nouveau decor, has been a beloved meeting place for residents of the city since 1921. It always has really long queues in the summer but is much quieter in winter. Suggested By: Megan From Traveller’s Elixir
15. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Sun-kissed Dubrovnik is among the best places in Europe in December. Dubrovnik enjoys sunshine, while most of Europe sees rain, fog, and snow in December. To make it clear, Dubrovnik can be chilly in December. But you will never lack sunshine either! The daily temperatures in Dubrovnik are not favourable for swimming, but they are great for sightseeing in the city! December is a perfect time for sightseeing the Baroque and Renaissance churches, monasteries, and palaces in Dubrovnik with no crowds.
December is a great time for strolling the ancient cobbled streets and the walls of the Old City. The best way to explore the city is to book one or two best Dubrovnik tours to learn about the city and the area from local expert guides. Besides that, Dubrovnik Christmas Fair is a joyful event that brings Christmas magic to the city. Stradun, the most famous street in Dubrovnik, gets filled with Christmas huts that sell traditional Croatian Christmas products, food, and drinks. Suggested by: Milijana of World Travel Connector
16. Athens, Greece
Though it may not be the first place that comes to mind when looking for the best places to visit in Europe in December, Athens is a fantastic destination to consider for your December travels. With mild temperatures, a festive atmosphere, and plenty of cultural experiences to indulge in, Athens has a lot to offer visitors in the winter months.
Imagine strolling up the Acropolis hill without having to elbow your way through hoards of tourists. In the summer, the crowds are horrendous, but in December, you’ll have plenty of space to breathe and take some shots without being photobombed. Stay in one of the Athens hotels with pools indoor, such as the A.P. Acropolis View Apartments, for a unique and indulging experience and epic views over the Acropolis.
Besides, visiting Athens in December means you can take part in the lovely holiday festivities that the city has to offer. Syntagma Square will be lit up with colourful lights, and for the ultimate Christmassy experience, head to Technopolis, home to festive performances, food and souvenir stalls and a traditional Christmas market. Suggested by: Mal of Raw Mal Roams
17. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Visiting Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in December can be a delightful experience as it is one of the best places to visit in Europe for Christmas. Like any other city in Europe, Sarajevo embraces the holiday season with enchanting Christmas decorations, lights, and festive markets. The city centre, particularly the Baščaršija area, comes alive with a joyful atmosphere.
But besides Christmas, there are other reasons to visit Sarajevo in December too. The weather is cold, with temperatures typically ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). If you’re lucky, you might experience a snowy landscape that enhances the city’s charm.
In the surrounding mountains you can almost be sure there will be snow. Locals flock to the famous Olympic mountain towns such as Bjelašnica and Jahorina for a range of winter sport activities such as skiing, snowboarding or simply enjoying a magical winter wonderland that is just a stone’s throw away from Sarajevo making it the best place to visit in Europe in December with family. Most tourists avoid Sarajevo in December due to the chilly temperatures. This allows you to explore the city without the large crowds. And with plenty of indoor activities it is easy to escape the cold in this winter destinations in Europe. Suggested by: Ellis from Backpack Adventures
🌞 Best Places to Visit for Winter Sun in Europe in December
If you want some winter sun in December, here’s a list with some great ideas of where to visit. Generally, you need to head to the Canary Islands and Mediterranean. Just don’t go expecting really warm weather. No where is hot in Europe in December.
For more ideas see my guide to 14 BEST Winter Sun Destinations in EUROPE
18. Gran Canaria, Spain
For those looking for some almost guaranteed winter sun, the Spanish Canary Islands are a good option. The average high temperature is 22c/71f, with the sea temperature being almost the same, so swimming is still an option. The evenings and mountain regions can get a little chillier but a long sleeve top or light jacket should be enough.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital city located in the north of the island and Maspalomas is a popular tourist resort that sits in the south, next to the Maspalomas sand dunes. However, if you are looking for a quieter resort, Taurito is a nice option. Taurito Beach sits at the end of a valley, with towering cliffs on either side. There’s also a saltwater waterpark and a couple of nice beach bars. Suggested By: Kylie from Between England and Everywhere
19. Barcelona, Spain
Spain is a great option for the best places to visit in Europe in December for winter sun and the city of Barcelona is a perfect option because you can experience a city break and time on the beach. You won’t be swimming or sunbathing in Barcelona in December but you will be able to enjoy a walk along the beach like we did at the end of December which was such a lovely way to spend the time between /Christmas and New Year.
A city break in Barcelona in December is also great because the crowds are less than in the summer and Barcelona is a city you can walk around for days around and walking around in the comfortable winter temperature is much more pleasant than the hot summers heat. We visited Barcelona and the coastline nearby just after Christmas and although there were Christmas decorations around, it wasn’t one of the most Christmassy cities in Europe which we enjoyed.
20. Malta
Located just off the coast of Italy, Malta is easily accessible from many major European cities. With cheap flights operating throughout December, it’s easy to make the trip. And once you arrive, you’ll be met with beautiful weather – in fact, Malta is one of the warmest places to visit in Europe during the winter months!
With crystal-clear waters and plenty of sunshine, Malta’s beaches are the perfect place to relax and soak up some winter sun making it one of the best warm places to visit in December in Europe. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s definitely worth doing a private boat trip to explore some of the hidden lagoons and coves that surround the Island.
Malta is also incredibly easy to get around – whether you opt for public transport, or rent a car for maximum flexibility – you’ll be able to explore the Island’s many attractions and towns without any issues. So if you’re looking for winter vacation destinations in Europe to visit during December and want to make the most of your time, look no further than Malta! With its stunning beaches, warm weather and easy access from all over Europe, it’s one of the best places to visit in December. Suggested by: Lowri from Many Other Roads
21. Lanzarote, Spain
Book your flight to Lanzarote, a Canary Island paradise, one of the warm places to visit in December in Europe, that awaits you in its pristine crystal waters with an amazing temperature to be enjoyed throughout all year, December included. Both outside and the water temperature on the island remain quite stable at around 68ºF/20ºC, even in the winter months. You’ll be able to do some sunbathing on amazing beaches like Papagayo and Playa Blanca or swim in beautiful natural volcanic pools in Arrieta and Punta Mujeres.
If you’re into surfing, enjoy some waves in the surf capital of the island, Famara, while staring at its impressive walls that hide the highest point of Lanzarote. The island also has many cultural options to visit such as the architectural gems of local artist Cesar Manrique like Jameos del Agua, Casa LagOmar, or overwhelming views of the neighbouring island La Graciosa from Manrique’s Mirador del Río.
Do some trekking on petrified lava surrounded by (sleeping) volcanos in Timanfaya National Park and have an adventure entering Cueva de los Verdes, a 20.000 years old volcanic tube. Suggested by: Inês from Randomtrip.net
22. Tenerife, Spain
Travelling to Tenerife in December is a great idea because you will find comfortable climatic conditions and sunny weather which makes it one of the Best Places to Visit in Europe in December. Daytime temperatures in December in Tenerife are usually between +18°C and +25°C. With the mountain range, the southern part of the island is considerably warmer than the north and the temperature difference can reach 4-7 degrees Celsius. In the evening and night hours, it gets noticeably colder, and the average temperature is +16 °C, so be sure to put in your suitcases not only summer clothes but also sweaters, jackets, pants and sneakers.
December in Tenerife is the perfect time to explore the island and embark on various excursions. The absence of scorching heat allows you to enjoy the sights and activities to the fullest. Be sure to visit Teide National Park and its highlight – the active volcano Teide. The volcano is over 3,500 meters high. A visit to the Teide volcano is without exaggeration considered a mandatory ritual on a trip to Tenerife. While climbing the volcano, you can also enjoy the beauty of the Teide National Park. This natural monument is more than 5 million years old. Suggested by: Alexandra from Tenerife-is
23. Nice, France
Another wonderful place on the list of warm places to visit in December in Europe is Nice, France. Additionally, travelling to Nice during this time of year tends to be cheaper in comparison to the summer months since there are usually significantly fewer tourists out and about.
For visitors who want to explore the city, there’s plenty to do and see! One great spot is Castle Hill, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Cote d’Azur coastline. Or, if you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, head over to Nice’s Christmas market. The annual event runs for an entire month and features around 60 stalls selling festive items, local foods, and souvenirs.
But, if you’re looking for a change of scenery, you can catch a glimpse of how the rich and wealthy celebrate the holiday season by visiting Monaco as a little excursion! All in all, Nice is one of the best places to visit in December. Its relatively warm weather, picturesque views, and an array of activities to partake in make it one of the ideal winter getaways in Europe for those looking to experience Europe during wintertime! Suggested by: Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
24. Sicily, Italy
Winters are milder in Sicily with reasonably warm days and temperatures hovering between 55-60°F. You can expect some rain (bring your umbrella), but snow is uncommon. December is a mild winter month in Sicily, but be sure to pack warmer layers and an umbrella just in case temperatures dip.
Sicily also has popular Christmas markets with many of them running through December. The best ones happen in Palermo, Catania, Ragusa, and Agrigento. It is a great time to soak in the festive vibe, eat good food, and shop for Christmas gifts and trinkets.
December is the low season in Sicily which means accommodation and tours are more affordable. It also means fewer tourists at popular tourist attractions. Therefore, it is the best time to explore the historic centres of Palermo and the Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto. Suggested by: Soumya of Stories by Soumya
25. Malaga, Spain
The high temperature in Malaga in December is 17.5 degrees Celsius, and it doesn’t rain much, so there are many outdoor things to do while enjoying the sunshine. December is a good time for sightseeing, but also hiking. It isn’t cold or warm as in the summer when the city can reach 40 degrees Celsius.
During your visit to Malaga, don’t miss its main attractions, which include Alcazaba and Roman Theatre, Malaga Cathedral and Gibralfaro Castle. And if you like museums, Picasso Museum is a must-see, although Malaga has over 40 museums with different themes to choose from.
On top of this, if you love all Christmas-related activities, you can also enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in Malaga, from seeing the Christmas Light Show every evening from the end of November to the beginning of January to visiting the traditional Spanish nativity scenes, like the one in the Town Hall, and window shop at the Christmas markets. Suggested By: Cristina of My Little World of Travelling
🌳 Best Christmas Free Breaks in Europe
If you are looking for a getaway in December that is not Christmas related, here are some great options where Christmas is not as heavily celebrated.
26. Cappadocia, Türkiye
The other-worldly region of Cappadocia in central Turkey is a year-round destination and one of the best places to visit in Europe in December and the best place to visit in Turkey in December. It’s most popular in summer when crowds of tourists descend on the lunar-like valleys for hiking and hot air ballooning. Yet, it’s in winter when Cappadocia really emerges as one of the best winter destinations in Europe. The tourist hordes have melted away, and you’ll often have some of the most picturesque areas to yourself – something that wouldn’t happen in peak season.
Hotels are cheaper during winter, so this can be a great time to stay in one of the luxurious cave hotels in Goreme or Uchisar. This is a quintessential Cappadocia experience, but summer prices can often be prohibitive. Being nestled into the rock, cave bedrooms are super cosy in December and often come with open fires for a romantic touch as well as a bit more warmth.
You can still enjoy all the activities that Cappadocia has to offer during December, and you won’t be fighting off the tour groups at the top attractions. The Open Air Museum in Goreme is a must, as well as horse riding and hot air ballooning over the valleys and plains. Suggested by: Heather from Conversant Traveller
27. Antalya, Türkiye
The coast of Türkiye is one of the warmest places in Europe in December and the holiday town of Antalya is a great place to go during the Christmas school holidays.
Don’t expect perfect sunshine and high temperatures, we experienced a range of weather in Antalya in December the other year but we booked a hotel with a heated swimming pool which was 100% a great idea on an all-inclusive board so we didn’t have to worry about finding restaurants that were open, we planned a few day trips like the Land of Legends Theme Park and we had a great family holiday in December in Europe and it was much warmer than at home in the UK!
Because Antalya is a big tourist destination, our hotel did have a lot of Christmas decorations and Christmas music but it wasn’t as full-on as other places in Europe so if you are looking for a Christmas-free holiday in Europe in December, overall Tururkiye is a good idea!
28. Ephesus, Türkiye
Ephesus might not come into your mind when looking for winter destinations in Europe, but let me tell you; it is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December. Located along the sunny Aegean coast, Ephesus is an ancient city that exemplifies the rich history of bygone civilizations.
To start, the Aegean region doesn’t suffer from extremely cold weather, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Turkey during the winter. You can expect temperatures of around 10 to 14 C (50 to 57 F) in December, and there is little chance of snow. Likewise, Ephesus is absolutely fantastic during the winter, as there are much fewer crowds than the summer. You can peacefully enjoy some of Ephesus’ most popular attractions without having to wait in long lines or push through crowds.
While Ephesus is one large historical complex, there are plenty of stand-alone landmarks once you’re inside. The most famous is the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!), along with the Library of Celsus, the Ancient Theater, and the Terrace Houses. To get the most out of your trip to Ephesus, we recommend hiring a guide, as they’re a wealth of information on each of the places! Suggested by: Kedi from Let’s Travel to Türkiye
I hope this has helped you with the best places to visit in Europe in December