December is all about the winter holidays in Europe, with Christmas markets in full swing. For those who love snow, some mountain resorts are already open while for those who love warm weather, Southern Europe is a great area to enjoy warmer temperatures.

For all of you tempted to visit Europe in December, we put together a list of best European Destinations to check out.

European Destinations to Visit in December: Budapest, Hungary

December average temps: 1 C / 34 F
Average accommodation price: 35 EUR per night in a double room (book your accommodation now)

It is freezing cold in Budapest in December but there are quite a lot of interesting things to do. Not to mention, it is also affordable – unless you want to come for New Year’s.

The stars of December are, without a doubt, the Christmas Markets, held in many places in town. The two most popular ones are in Vorosmorty Ter and in front of St. Stephen Basilica. Prepare to eat your weight in traditional Hungarian food – such as gulyas, meet filled cabbage rolls or chimney cakes. Drink mulled wine to fight the cold.

If do decide to stay for New Year’s, book the accommodation ahead of time and prepare for a very cold night. There are plenty of parties taking place on the street and you can watch the fireworks from the Chain Bridge.

Note: in 2020, the Budapest Advent and Christmas Fair on Vörösmarty Square has been, unfortunately, cancelled.

European Destinations to Visit in December: Tenerife, Spain

December average temps: 18.9 C / 66 F
Average accommodation price: 34 EUR per night in a double room (book your accommodation now )

Don’t want to freeze your behind? Then how about a European vacation in Tenerife? With an average temperature which still allows you to spend time on the beach, the Canary Islands are guaranteed to make your endorphins fly through the roof during winter.

Black sand beaches, golden sand beaches, amazing mountains and sleepy villages – and yes, all of this during winter. Take the cable car up on El Teide – the highest mountain in Spain – , hike in Parque Rural de Anaga, or just soak up the gorgeous weather.

European Destinations to Visit in December: Puglia, Italy

December average temps: 9.9 C / 50 F
Average accommodation price: 44 EUR per night in a studio apartment (book your accommodation now)

The further south, the better, when it comes to chasing decent weather in Europe in December. Surely, it’s not very warm and yes, it is usually very wet, but Puglia is quite magical during winter.

It is also almost deserted and you’ll only bump into locals. So, the accommodation is cheap.

There are a lot of cities to choose from in the area, with Bari being the main one. Places such as Peschici or Ostuni look really interesting.

European Destinations to Visit in December: Edinburgh, Scotland

December average temps: 3.9 C / 40 F
Average accommodation price: 97 EUR per night in a double room with private bathroom (book your accommodation now)

The Scottish city is the place to be for Hogmanay (New Year’s). It is one of the world’s largest New Year’s celebrations with roots dating back to the Vikings. Nowadays, it’s a celebration lasting three days, with a lot of old traditions still kept alive.

Don’t forget to allow some time to check out the city’s impressive castle.

European Destinations to Visit in December: The Carpathians, Romania

December average temps: -8 C / 17 F
Average accommodation price: 20 EUR per night in a double room with private bathroom (book your accommodation now)

Craving some fun in the snow? Then head to Romania’s Carpathians and choose Brasov as your base. With a bit of luck, there will be snow in the area and you’ll be able to enjoy some winter sports.

And while you are at it, check out the city’s gorgeous Christmas market and plan some day trips to the near places such as Rasnov Fortress, Bran Castle or Sinaia.

Read also about:
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in January
>> 5 Best European Destinations to Visit in February
>>6 Best European Destinations to Visit in March
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in April
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in May
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in June
>>5 Best European Places to Visit in July
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in August
>>10 Best European Destinations to Visit in September
>>10 Best European Destinations to visit in October
>>5 Best European Destinations to visit in November

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The prices in the article have been updated as of Oct 19, 2023.