Ahead of each new month, we compile a list of destinations across Europe which are perfectly suited to visit that month. Considering things like weather, busyness, natural and cultural events, and other factors, our top picks for December are France'sAlsace region; Germany's Harz Mountains; Estonia's Tallinn; and Bratislava in Slovakia. Check out our highlights and favourite sites below.
December beckons with enchantment in Alsace, France, as the region transforms into a festive wonderland, boasting charming Christmas markets and the warm embrace of Alsatian hospitality. The Harz Mountains in Germany unveil a picturesque winter landscape, inviting visitors to explore snowy peaks and cosy villages. Tallinn, Estonia, captivates with its medieval allure, enhanced by the magic of winter lights, while Bratislava, Slovakia, exudes a unique yuletide charm with its historic squares adorned in holiday splendour.
Alsace, France
Alsace, France, unfolds a captivating tapestry of festive charm in December. The region's renowned Christmas markets, nestled in fairytale towns like Strasbourg and Colmar, offer a magical ambience. Stroll through quaint cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, savouring the aroma of mulled wine and indulging in traditional Alsatian treats. The blend of medieval architecture and seasonal cheer creates an enchanting experience, making December an ideal time to discover the heartwarming spirit of Alsace.
Explore Christmas Markets Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere by wandering through the enchanting Christmas markets in towns like Strasbourg and Colmar. Admire the beautifully decorated stalls, sample local delicacies, and find unique handmade gifts amid the twinkling lights.
Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral Attend a Christmas concert or a midnight mass at the Strasbourg Cathedral, a breathtaking masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral's majestic setting and seasonal celebrations add a spiritual and cultural dimension to your Alsace experience.
Indulge in Alsatian Gastronomy Treat your taste buds to the rich flavours of Alsatian cuisine with festive specialities. From delectable pastries like kouglof to savoury delights like choucroute garnie, Alsace offers a culinary journey that complements the holiday spirit, providing a delicious backdrop to your December visit.
Despite not being at the top of the wishlist for many Brits, there are fantastic campsites throughout Alsace. Whether you're towing a caravan or in a motorhome, Alsace is easily reached, accessible from the main northern France ports, so you could be setting up camp with no need for an overnight stop.
Harz Mountains, Germany
In December, the landscapes of Germany's Harz Mountains transform into a winter wonderland, blanketed in snow, turning the mountains into a picturesque scene straight from a fairytale. Winter sports enthusiasts can relish in activities like skiing and snowboarding, while others can enjoy serene walks through snow-covered forests. The Harz Christmas markets add a touch of tradition, inviting visitors to experience the warmth of local hospitality amid the stunning wintry backdrop. Be sure to visit these magical villages:
Wernigerode This charming town is a quintessential Harz experience with its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and the iconic Wernigerode Castle. In December, Wernigerode transforms into a festive delight, with Christmas markets and the town square adorned in holiday decorations.
Goslar A UNESCO World Heritage site, Goslar boasts well-preserved medieval architecture and a lively Christmas market. The historic Old Town, with its timber-framed houses, provides a picturesque backdrop for festive celebrations. Don't miss the Goslar Imperial Palace, a testament to the town's rich history.
Quedlinburg Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Quedlinburg is renowned for its well-preserved medieval streets and over 1,200 half-timbered houses. The Christmas market in the town square adds a magical touch, and exploring the narrow lanes lined with historic buildings offers a step back in time.
Top tip Warm up with a bowl of traditional Harzer Erbsensuppe (pea soup) or savour the seasonal Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Stollen (fruitcake) at the Christmas markets.
This is a popular camping and caravanning destination thanks to its unique position spanning from coast to mountains. The region is home to four World Heritage Sites; St. Mary's Cathedral (Cathedral of the Assumption), St. Michael's Church, Rammelsberg Mine and the charming medieval town of Goslar.
Tallinn, Estonia
Visiting Tallinn, Estonia, in December is a delightful experience, marked by a unique blend of medieval charm and festive enchantment.
Embrace the winter spirit by partaking in activities like ice skating in Harju Street or warm up with hearty Estonian cuisine - try the sauerkraut-filled blood sausage (verivorst) or gingerbread cookies.
Tallinn Christmas Market (Raekoja Plats) The iconic Tallinn Christmas Market in the Town Hall Square is a must-visit in December. Nestled in the UNESCO-listed Old Town, surrounded by cobblestone streets adored with festive lights and medieval architecture dusted with snow (if you're lucky!), the market offers a truly magical atmosphere. Explore the stalls featuring local crafts, traditional Estonian treats, and warming drinks, and partake in the seasonal merriment with live performances and entertainment.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Not to be confused with a cathedral of the same name in Sofia, this stunning Orthodox cathedral, with its distinctive onion domes, is a captivating architectural gem. Built in the late 1800s when Estonia was still part of the Russian Empire, its exterior is boldly adorned with brilliant white and burnt orange paintwork interspersed with impressive masonry and gold-gilded religious scenes and topped with five striking cupolas. In December, the cathedral is illuminated by festive lights, making it the perfect time to explore the cathedral both outside and in, the latter adorned with ornate decorations and spiritual ambience.
Kadriorg Palace and Park Visit Kadriorg Palace, a baroque masterpiece built by Peter the Great, and stroll through the surrounding Kadriorg Park. The park transforms into a winter wonderland in December, offering a peaceful escape. The palace itself is often decorated with seasonal adornments, providing a touch of historical elegance to your winter visit.
Estonia and the Eastern bloc is fast becoming a popular destination European holidaymakers, interested in its medieval history and architecture, unique foodie flavours, and fairytale-like traditions.
Bratislava, Slovakia
December in Bratislava, Slovakia, is a captivating journey into a magical wonderland where historical charm meets festive enchantment. The city's Old Town is adorned with twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine fills the crisp air of its charming Christmas markets. Bratislava Castle provides a majestic backdrop to the city's winter transformation, offering panoramic views of the Danube River. Embrace cultural festivities with classical concerts and Slovak folk shows, and indulge in the warmth of local hospitality through traditional treats.
Cultural Festivities During the festive period, Bratislava comes alive with cultural richness. The city hosts a variety of events, including classical concerts, traditional Slovak folk performances, and theatre productions. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene, experiencing the unique cultural expressions that add a layer of sophistication and vibrancy to your visit.
Historical Charm Bratislava's historic Old Town, with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, takes on a special allure in December. The city's landmarks, such as Bratislava Castle and St. Martin's Cathedral, are adorned with festive lights, creating a picturesque and magical setting. The juxtaposition of historical sites against the backdrop of winter transforms the city into a living fairy tale.
Natural Winter Beauty The natural beauty surrounding Bratislava is accentuated during the festive season. Walk along the banks of the Danube River and enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The crisp winter air and, if you're lucky, a dusting of snow on the landscapes add a serene and enchanting quality to the city's natural scenery, making it an ideal time for leisurely strolls and exploration.
Camping in Slovakia gives you easy access to the country’s diverse countryside: the soaring peaks of the Tatra Mountains in the north, the Danubian Lowland in the southwest and the extraordinary caves such as the Dobšinská Ice Cave in the east. Consequently, there are lots of opportunities for outdoor activities such as caving, walking and skiing.
Looking for somewhere a little different?
In December, the diverse destinations of Greece; rural Germany; Czech Republic; Scotland, each offer a unique and compelling allure.
With its mild winter climate, Evia invites visitors to explore its ancient sites and picturesque villages without the summer crowds. The Black Forest, Germany, transforms into a winter paradise, where snow-covered landscapes and charming villages create a storybook setting. Brno, Czech Republic, embraces the festive spirit with its lively markets and cultural events, while the city's historical charm adds a captivating dimension to winter exploration. In Scotland, the rugged landscapes take on a mystical beauty, and cities like Edinburgh come alive with the spirit of Hogmanay celebrations. These destinations, each with a distinct character, make December an ideal time to discover Europe's diverse wonders.
🇬🇷 Evia, Greece - Mild and ancient, discover Greece's best kept secret
🇩🇪 Black Forest, Germany - Immerse yourself in nature and return feeling refreshed
🇨🇿 Brno, Czech Republic - Wrap up warm and experience true Moravian culture
🏴 Scotland, UK - Celebrate like a local in the home of Hogmanay!
Escape to nature in Evia, Greece, for a camping adventure. Just a short drive from Athens, discover serene landscapes, pristine beaches, and authentic Greek hospitality. Find campsites in Evia and Southern Greece
Camp amid the majestic pines of the Black Forest, Germany, for a nature-filled escape. Caravanning unveils scenic routes, charming villages, and a serene forest atmosphere, creating an unforgettable adventure. Find campsites in Baden-Württemberg
Discover the natural beauty around Brno, Czech Republic, through camping and caravanning. Explore scenic sites like Brno Dam or Moravian Karst, offering outdoor enthusiasts a tranquil retreat in nature. Find campsites in South Moravia
Experience the rugged beauty of Scotland. Embrace the winter wilderness, where misty landscapes meet cosy campsites, creating a unique, adventurous getaway. Find campsites in Scotland
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In summary
December is an ideal time to explore these enchanting destinations, from France to Eastern Europe. In Alsace, the region's charming Christmas markets and medieval towns create a festive atmosphere, while the Harz Region in Germany transforms into a winter wonderland, offering picturesque landscapes and cosy villages. Tallinn, Estonia, captivates with its medieval allure adorned in winter lights, and Bratislava, Slovakia, charms with a unique blend of historical elegance and festive cheer. Across these destinations, December unfolds a magical tapestry where festive traditions, historical charm, and natural beauty converge, inviting travellers to experience the heartwarming spirit of the season in diverse European landscapes.
🇫🇷 Dordogne, France - Tour the region without the crowds
🇮🇹 Florence, Italy - Catch some real alone time amongst art, culture, history and fabulous food
🇬🇷 Athens, Greece - Roam amid the ruins in the winter sun
🇦🇹 Salzkammergut, Austria - Welcome the magic of winter in the most magical of places
