Discover your list of the best destinations to visit in December in Europe. This selection includes the best Christmas markets in Europe, the most beautiful ski resorts, sunny destinations and the best destinations for the New Year.

From Madeira Islands and its Christmas lights and its winter sun, to Zagreb, the capital of Christmas in Europe, but also essential ski destinations in Europe such as St Moritz and exclusive New Year's destinations such as Marbella, the best of Europe awaits you in December.

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours and activities in Europe and discover the best places to visit in Europe in December.

1. Zagreb

Croatia

Voted three times the best Christmas market by Internet users around the world, Zagreb is one of the best destinations to visit in December in Europe.

Music and art are central to the soul of Zagreb, and this year's Advent will have an exceptionally rich program of concerts and exhibitions, both indoor and outdoor. The sound of music will be one of the constants as you walk around the city which will be decorated in the holiday spirit to make it the ultimate romantic destination.

During your stay do not miss to visit the most beautiful secret destinations in Croatia and most amazing castles in Croatia.

Book your flights to Zagreb, your accommodation in Zagreb as well as your activities and tours in Zagreb such as a Zagreb Food Tour.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Esplanade Hotel". Wellness center, amazing staff, perfect location.

2. Riga

Latvia

You elected it Best Christmas Lights Destination in Europe. Its Christmas Lights route which takes place from December until mid-January as well as its incredible authentic and traditional Christmas market make Riga one of the best destinations to visit in December in Europe.

From December 17 2023 to January 16 2024 hundreds of lights brighten the Canalside of Riga city centre, which is the biggest Christmas light trail in Latvia.

Be fascinated by the Christmas light trail this year in Riga! See for yourself how these places transform with illuminations when you step into this winter wonderland.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Riga and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Hilton Garden Inn". Stay in the heart of Riga.

3. Budapest

 Hungary

World capital of Christmas with a Christmas market voted three times the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe, Budapest is one of the best destinations to visit in December in Europe. True to the tradition of this year's 14-year-old Advent Basilica, it promises a unique festive atmosphere around domestic craft exhibitors, real gastronomic adventures, heart-warming programs with so many more surprises. The real, authentic Christmas spirit will move again into the heart of Budapest into the St. Stephen square! 

Book your flights to Budapest, your accommodation in Budapest as well as your tours and activities in Budapest as a "Budapest Evening Sightseeing Cruise and Unlimited Prosecco"

 How to get there: Book your flights to Budapest and your transfer. 

 Where to stay: "Hotel Clark Budapest". Close to popular attractions.

4. Gdansk

Poland

Voted among the best Christmas markets in Europe, Gdansk Christmas Market is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Poland and it makes Gdansk one of the best destinations to visit in December in Europe.

The amazing ambience of the Christmas Fair is mostly created by its unique and mood-setting scenery. The Three Wise Men, angels and saints look at you from Angel Mill, high above. You can ride a horse or take a spin on a fabulous Venetian carousel or find a moment of solace at the Holy Family Shrine.

Book your flights to Gdansk your accommodation in Gdansk as well as your tours and activities in Gdansk as a "Gdansk: Tasting Polish Vodka and Traditional Appetizers Tour".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Hampton by Hilton". The Christmas Market is 300m away.

5. Craiova

Romania

It is the largest Christmas market in Romania, more than half a million lights, ice rinks, creative workshops, concerts, decorated chalets, all the magic of Christmas is in Craiova in December. With an exceptional cultural program, entertainment for young and old, an ice rink, amazing Christmas cottages and among the most beautiful Christmas lights in Europe, Craiova offers the best of Christmas in a family atmosphere.

Book your flights and your accommodation at the best prices in Craiova and discover one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations this winter. Let yourself be carried away by the fairy-tale atmosphere of Craiova at Christmas time. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Craiova.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Splendid 1900". Located in the heart of Craiova. 

6. Erfurt

Germany

With its big wheel, its cathedral, its chalets offering tasty and traditional local products, Erfurt is one of the best destinations to visit in Europe in December and one of the best Christmas markets in Germany.

The background of the Cathedral Square is the perfect setting for the special atmospheric time of Advent. Fun attractions and fascinating sights await visitors at the market. You will find traditional handmade crafts, delicious treats, Thuringian specialties, and exquisite Christmas decorations as well as an enormous candle-lit Christmas tree, a 12m high pyramid and a crèche scene with hand-carved, almost life-size figures. 

Do not miss to visit the most beautiful secret destinations in Germany, Best Castles in Germany and most beautiful Christmas Markets in Germany.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Erfurt or to Leipzig (1h30 by car) or Frankfurt (3h30).

 Where to stay: “Mr. & Mrs. President", located in the city centre, is one of the hotels receiving the highest rating from travellers.

7. Edinburgh

Scotland

It is the Best Christmas Market in Scotland and frankly, the best Christmas Market in the UK. For these reasons but also the incredible Hogmanay celebrated on December 31 which make Edinburgh one of the best New Year's Eve destinations in Europe, Edinburgh is a prime destination for a city break in December in Europe.

World-renowned Edinburgh's Christmas celebrations spread the festive cheer across the Scottish capital. From mulled Irn Bru to vegan pigs in blankets, from Harry Potter-themed gifts to local handmade produce, the stunning Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens offers treats for all!

 How to get there: Book your flights to Edinburgh.

 Where to stay: "Ibis Styles Edinburgh St Andrew Square". Just 2 minutes' walk from Princes Street. 

8. St. Moritz

Switzerland

Some destinations have become legendary and representative of exclusivity and glamour such as St Tropez, Marbella, St Barth or St Moritz. St Moritz sees its reputation in the genius idea of a hotelier who invited the greatest singers, actors, crowned heads in his ski resort. The visibility of these stars attract the media from all over the world but also travellers.

One of the most luxurious ski resorts in Europe and the best ski resort in Switzerland also happens to be one of the best wellness destinations in Europe. Terribly chic, St Moritz is the ideal destination for those who want to combine skiing and wellness or simply shopping, relaxation and well-being.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Milan Bergamo (2h30 by car) or Zurich (3h), your accommodation and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Badrutt's Palace Hotel" is one of St Moritz's legendary wellness hotels.

9. Vienna

Austria

The capital of Austria is also one of the Christmas capitals and one of the best destinations for a city break in Europe in December. From mid-November to Christmas, Vienna's prettiest squares transform into magical Christmas markets. 

One of the most well-known Christmas Markets is the traditional "Vienna Magic of Advent", which turns the City Hall Square into a shining fairy-tale land. Christmas gifts, tree decorations, sweets and warming drinks are awaiting you as well as a carousel and craft fun Christmas Workshops for kids.

During your stay do not miss to visit the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria.

Book your flights to Vienna, your accommodation in Vienna as well as your tours and activities in Vienna such as a "Vienna: Christmas & New Year's Concert in St. Peter's Church".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Vienna.

 Where to stay: "Grand Ferdinand". Located right in the centre of Vienna.

10. Zermatt

Switzerland

It is one of the best destinations to visit in December in Europe and one of the most luxurious ski resorts in Europe. With the Matterhorn as its symbol, a mountain with a unique profile, recognizable among a thousand, Zermatt is one of the favourite destinations for travellers looking for authenticity, security, luxury and for the end of year celebrations.

Zermatt (1,620m) pulses with life. Shops, cafés, bars, and noble hotel lounges offer variety. But Zermatt is also a Walser village with houses dating back more than 500 years. 

Book your flights to Zurich (3h) or Geneva (4h), your accommodation in Zermatt as well as your activities and tours in Zermatt such as a "Zermatt: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Ticket".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich (3h) or Geneva (4h)n and your transfer.

 Where to stay: “Mont Cervin Palace”. It owes its reputation to its gigantic spa of 1700m2.

11. Nottingham 

United Kingdom

The hometown of Robin Wood is with its Christmas market ranked among the best Christmas Markets in the United Kingdom, one of the best destinations to visit in Europe in December.

Christmas returns to Nottingham with the largest event in the East Midlands! Best of all entry to Nottingham Winter Wonderland is FREE!! Featuring your favourite rides, bars and shopping spots from previous years, this is the perfect place to soak in the Christmas spirit.

During your stay in Nottingham do not miss to visit the Best Christmas Markets in the United Kingdom, Most beautiful secret destinations in England and Best Castles in England. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Birmingham Airport (1h by car/public transport) or Manchester (2h).

 Where to stay: "Crowne Plaza Nottingham". In the heart of Nottingham.

12. Dresden 

Germany

It is probably the most beautiful Christmas market in Germany and for this reason Dresden is one of your best destinations to visit in December in Europe.

Glittering lights, twinkling stars, beaming children's faces, mulled wine, the scent of gingerbread, and Christmas carols – Dresden's Striezelmarkt boasts a unique character, despite being in its 587th year. Regional specialties, such as Ore Mountain wood crafts, Lusatian blue-printed fabrics and Moravian stars, are particularly popular. 

Need more inspiration? Discover the best of Germany, its most beautiful castles, hidden gems, best places to visit in Germany.

Book your flights to Dresden, your accommodation in Dresden as well as your tours and activities in Dresden such as a "Dresden: Advent Tour with Stollen Tasting and Mulled Wine".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Dresden and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "NH Collection Dresden Altmarkt". Situated in the real heart of Dresden.

13. Funchal

Madeira Islands

The capital of Madeira Islands is magical at Christmas. The traditions of this island, the climate, the local gastronomy and the main events of this festivity, will surely surprise you. Madeira, a Portuguese island, celebrates to the fullest the arrival of Christmas season, with a traditional Christmas market, held in Avenida Arriaga central walkways, at the heart of its main capital – Funchal.

Discover the variety of products in display, exotic flowers and other traditional souvenirs, while experiencing and tasting some of the typical delicacies and drinks of this season, while enjoying the merriment and a very welcoming ambience. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal and your transfer. 

 Where to stay: "Madeira Moments" in Calheta or "Quinta da Casa Branca" in Funchal. 

14. Stuttgart

Germany

Difficult to resist the magic of a Christmas in Stuttgart, one of the best destinations to visit in Europe in December. During the weeks of Advent the Stuttgart Region is bathed in a special yuletide glow. Nearly 300 nostalgic Christmas markets attract visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll around.

With its 287 stalls and a tradition of more than 300 years, the Stuttgart Christmas Market is one of the loveliest in Germany and one of the oldest and largest of its kind in Europe. 

During your stay do not miss to visit the Best Castles in Germany as well as the most beautiful secret destinations in Germany.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Stuttgart and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Motel One Stuttgart-Mitte". Couples particularly like the location.

15. Kitzbuhel 

Austria

Considered one of the most beautiful ski resorts in Europe but also Most luxurious Ski resorts in Europe and Best Ski Resort for New Year’s Eve there are only good reasons to stay in Kitzbühel in December.

Kitzbühel offers a dazzling New Year's Eve with breath-taking fireworks. Many activities await you such as a torchlight ski downhill by instructors and "Ski & Fun parties", fireworks for three days from December 30th to January 1st!

Book your accommodation in Kitzbühel and enjoy an exceptional new year!

 How to get there: Book your flights to Salzburg Airport (1h by car / taxi / uber - 2h30 by public transport).

 Where to stay: "A-Rosa Kitzbühel" features a 3,000m2 spa area.

16. Basel

Switzerland

Voted the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe but also among the safest city in Europe, Basel is a safe bet for a romantic or family city break in December.

Basel has a deep-rooted tradition as Switzerland’s most beautiful and largest Christmas city and is well worth a visit every year. Not only the well-preserved Old Town is radiant in the warm Christmas light, but the shops and the facades of many buildings glitter with a golden glow.

The Basel Christmas Market can be found on Barfüsserplatz, and on Münsterplatz – one of the most beautiful squares in Basel.

During your stay do not miss to visit the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Switzerland.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Basel Airport.

 Where to stay: "Hyperion Hotel Basel", just a short walk from the Old Town; it offers a sauna and a fitness centre.

17. Porto 

Portugal

The city of Porto is magical at Christmas, a hot Porto wine, a pasteis straight out of the oven, a woolen beanie bought on the ephemeral Christmas market or in the renovated Bolhao market, there are all the ingredients for a perfect Christmas if you are travelling to Porto in December.

In addition, the city of Porto organizes fireworks every year which has nothing to envy to those of Paris, London and Berlin. Go to Batalha square, in front of the Town Hall to count down to midnight and admire the fireworks. 

Book your flights to Porto, your accommodation in Porto as well as your tours and activities in Porto such as a “Porto River Cruise”.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Porto and your transfer.

 Where to stay: “Portomoments” to stay in the historic heart while staying away from the noise of the crowd. “InterContinental Palacio das Cardosas” to be at the heart of the festivities.

18. Colmar

Alsace - France

Elected among the most beautiful destinations in France, Colmar is a fairy tale destination.

The houses are colourful, the canal is clean, pleasant, the alleys are secure, pedestrianized, the Christmas lights are magical and ranked among the most beautiful Christmas Lights in Europe. Its Christmas market is the highlight of December, mulled wine, local specialties. 

Book your flights to Basel or Strasbourg as well as your transfer, your accommodation in Colmar and your tours and activities in Colmar such as a "The 4 Wonders of Alsace Day Tour from Colmar".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Basel/Mulhouse Airport (40 min by car 1h by public transport) or Strasbourg (1h).

 Where to stay: "Odalys City Colmar La Rose d'Argent" offers a fitness room and swimming pool.

19. Alpe d'Huez

France

It is one of the best ski resorts in France and one of the best ski resorts for families, with its guaranteed snow, Alpe d'Huez is a perfect destination for a European holiday in December.

Located in the Massif des Grandes Rousse, it is one of the few ski resorts in France with a bobsleigh track and almost everlasting ice.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Grenoble (60 min by car), Chambéry (1h30) or Lyon (2h) and book your stay at the best price.

 Where to stay: "Au Chamois d'Or". Guests have direct access to the ski slopes, an indoor pool and a steam room.

20. Munich

Bavaria

Discover the capital of Bavaria away from the hustle and bustle of Oktoberfest ranked among the Best events in Europe.

During your stay in December in Munich, be sure to visit the most beautiful castles in Germany, Bavaria is full of fairy-tale castles that will take you back to childhood and you can book many tours & activities departing from Munich to the discovery of these dream castles.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Munich and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel". Stay in the heart of Munich.

21. Marbella

Andalusia

The most beautiful city of Andalusia, The Capital of the Sun, The most exclusive destination in Europe, awaits you for an exceptional December holiday in Europe.

Imagine a New Year's Eve with your feet in the water. After a day of shopping in the authentic alleys of Marbella, in the designer shops of Porto Banus, you have a drink in the Marina or in one of the 5-star resorts of this destination which has always attracted celebrities.

Book your flights to Malaga (40 min by car), your transfer, your accommodation in Marbella as well as your activities and tours in Marbella such as a "Marbella: Catamaran Tour with Dolphin Watching".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Malaga (40 min by car) and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Nobu Hotel Marbella". The nearest beach is 500m away.

22. Winchester 

United Kingdom

This December stay at one of the UK's top Christmas destinations.

Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe, renowned for its bustling atmosphere and stunning location in the shadow of Winchester Cathedral.

Inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets, you'll be captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of the Christmas Market, with tempting seasonal treats and delightful Christmas gifts.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Southampton (15 min by car) or London Heathrow (1h).

 Where to stay: "The Winchester Hotel and Spa" Situated in the heart of ancient Winchester.

23. Ustica 

Sicily - Italy

Probably one of the most under-the-radar European islands, Ustica is a tiny Italian island, with a population of just over 1000 people north of Sicily. It is connected to the Port of Palermo by a regular ferry service and is renowned for the beauty of its landscapes and the purity of its waters which make it one of the best diving spots in Europe. It is an ideal destination for a December vacation away from the crowds in a little lost paradise.

Book your flights to Palermo (+ ferry to Ustica), your accommodation in Ustica as well as your activities and tours in Sicily such as a "Palermo: Street Food and History Walking Tour".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Palermo. 

 Where to stay: "Le Terraze sul Mare" offers sun terrace with pool and air-conditioned studios with sea views.

24. Amsterdam

Holland

What could be more romantic than skating on the frozen canals of Amsterdam in December? For this reason, but also for its Christmas markets, its Christmas shopping with a range of boutiques from creators, designers and major brand names, Amsterdam is a perfect destination for a city break in December in Europe.

Amsterdam is obviously a perfect destination for shopping with its Magna Plaza shopping centre, one of the most beautiful shopping centres in Europe, as well as incredible shopping streets such as "Kalverstraat", "Nieuwendijk" and "PC Hoofstraat" which are among the biggest shopping streets in Europe.

Book your flights to Amsterdam and your accommodation at the best price and your tours in Amsterdam such as a Canal boat cruise.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and reach the city centre in 20 minutes by train.

 Where to stay: "Eden Hotel Amsterdam" situated in the heart of the city centre.