If you are keen to visit Europe or the UK this winter, I’ve found 10 of the best UK and European cities to visit in December, many of which are criminally underrated.
Get festive at some of the coziest German Christmas markets. Explore Eastern Europe’s snowy scenery and traditional winter festivals. Or opt for a brilliant UK getaway. These are the best European cities to visit in December (and all throughout winter.)
The best UK and European cities to visit in December
Want to tick off some bucket list of European cities while they’re blanketed in snow? Or how about exploring some lesser-known metropolises? Here are a few fabulous winter city breaks for December, that are equally as suitable for January and February:
- Tromsø, Norway
- Vilnius, Lithuania
- Zagreb, Croatia
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Paris, France
- Poznan, Poland
- Bath, UK
- Berlin, Germany
- Tallinn, Estonia
- London, UK
1. Tromsø, Norway
Ever fancied hanging out in a lodge decorated with reindeer hides before zipping up a cable car to catch a glimpse of the ever-elusive Northern Lights? Well, you can look forward to that (and more) in Tromsø.
It’s about as far north as you can get in mainland Europe and great for a short winter break. The city sits within the Arctic Circle and offers up heaps of awesome activities in the chillier months. This includes fun snowy activities like dog sledding, plus visits to the Polar Museum.
Must try: November to February is prime time for whale-watching in Tromsø.
2. Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to brilliant European winter city breaks. The medieval city retains its authentic beauty and is packed full of historic gems. Bundle up for leisurely strolls around the city’s pretty UNESCO World Heritage Old Town and don’t forget to tour the landmark Vilnius Cathedral.
Must try: Want to sample some seasonal treats? Head for Piles Street: the city’s oldest street that’s lined with fabulous restaurants and bars.
3. Zagreb, Croatia
Thought Croatia was only a summer destination? Think again. Foodies will especially love visiting Zagreb during the winter.
You’ll discover some inventive treats at Zagreb‘s Hrelić flea market, including eggs in chili and prosciutto-wrapped frogs. It’s a great place to wander around in the winter, even if you don’t fancy putting your palate to the test.
Besides food, Zagreb has plenty of indoor attractions to keep you busy. Pop into the Muzej Mimara museum, climb to the top of Lotrščak Tower for great views, or catch a show at the Croatian National Theatre.
Must try: Planning a European city break in December? Zagreb Christmas Market is a magical place to spend an evening. Later retreat into one of the many bars on Tkalčićeva Street for a warming pint of local beer.
4. Gothenburg, Sweden
Don’t discount Gothenburg as a European city break this winter. Stockholm can get busy in the winter months but Gothenburg remains reliably cozy for the intrepid traveler to explore.
Visit Liseberg, one of Scandinavia’s biggest theme parks, which has a special Christmas market in the mid-winter months. Or take a day trip out to the Gothenburg archipelago to awe at the snowy scenery.
Must try: Stop by the Feskekôrka (Fish Church) market hall for a taste of local foods to end the day.
5. Paris, France
Paris is easily one of the best European cities to visit in December. The so-called City of Love is an idyllic destination no matter the season. In winter though, the crowds clear and the city’s iconic streets are often speckled with snow.
While December is the perfect time to visit for a magical Christmas ambiance, Paris is also brilliant in February. Museums and attractions are less busy, accommodation is cheaper and there are heaps of seasonal events to look forward to. This includes the city’s colorful Chinese New Year celebrations and the long-standing Paris Carnival.
Must try: Get your skates on and head up to the ice rink on the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette.
6. Poznan, Poland
This little-known city in Poland is ideal for a winter city break in December. Why? Because Poznan is packed with culture, food, and cheap local beer.
Check out some of the delis and patisseries that line Old Town and the Market Square. History buffs will love exploring the city’s key sights and checking out the museums(many of which are free). Booking a Christmas getaway? Poznan’s Christmas markets are charmingly authentic and as charming as any you’ll find in Germany.
Must try: Visit the Croissant Museum that celebrates the unique St Martin’s Croissant – a tradition in the region.
7. Bath, UK
With its honey-colored Georgian architecture, Bath is the perfect destination for a lesser-known city break this December. It is an ancient and historic city named after its famous Roman Baths that were built almost 2,000 years ago. Perfect for winter strolls, and with plenty of excellent restaurants and bars to choose from. Looking for romance? Walk hand in hand along the elegant Royal Crescent before checking out the pretty Pulteney Bridge.
Must try: Go for a soak in The Roman Baths which sit slap-bang in the middle of the city.
8. Berlin, Germany
If I had to choose just one destination for the best European cities to visit in December, there’s no better place than Berlin. It’s home to some of the best Christmas markets in Germany, plus an array of cultural gems to keep all ages busy on cold days. Winter also tends to be quieter and cheaper.
Highlights to add to your itinerary include historic hotspots like the Berlin Wall and Museum Island. And, of course, don’t skip visiting a Berlin Christmas market. There are dozens scattered around the city featuring wooden stalls selling everything from gifts to treats. Booking a New Year’s Eve break? Berlin’s nightlife is legendary.
Must try: Warm up and fill your belly with international and local treats at the Markthalle Neun food hall.
9. Tallinn, Estonia
Pack your jumpers and ready your camera for that perfect fairytale picture shot. Tallinn looks like it’s been plucked from a postcard in winter thanks to its snow-dusted churches and cobbled streets. Estonia’s capital is also jam-packed with culture. Don’t skip exploring Telliskivi Loomelinnak, an area of the city packed with bars, coffee shops, and flea markets.
Must try: Spend a few hours wandering around the city’s Old Town which is decked out with lights and pretty decorations in December.
10. London, UK
Christmas brings a magical atmosphere to London in December. There is an unmissable festive atmosphere and an abundance of Christmas Markets.
London’s free museums are also brilliant places to warm up – and there’s something to suit everyone. Fancy a shopping spree? Many of the city’s stores host brilliant winter sales, making it a great time to pick up some treats. And if you are a foodie there’s no better time to treat yourself.
Must try: For awesome views of the city in winter, book a slot to visit the Sky Garden – London’s highest (and free) public garden.
Want to discover more destinations this winter? Enjoy some festive fun with a trip to Germany in winter or stay closer to home with the the best winter vacations in the US.
