Travelling in December can offer snow-dusted, storybook moments as the Christmas Markets in Europe are in full swing, and this is the perfect time to slip away on a city break, soak in the festive glow, and uncover details you’ll remember long after you’ve unpacked. Celebrating Christmas or the New Year in a new destination is an opportunity to break away from the usual routine, discover new traditions first-hand, and wander streets that sparkle under winter lights. For those looking for warm places to visit in December, whilst seeking some history and culture, there are plenty of other options too. Check out our recommendations on the best places to go in December.
Best December holiday destinations
Krakow, Poland
A trip to Krakow is a fairy-tale experience at any time of year, but it truly shines in December. The city’s Main Market Square transforms into a festive wonderland with a dazzling Christmas tree and lantern-lit stalls laden with wooden toys, hand-painted baubles, and steaming mugs of mulled wine. It’s the perfect place to sample traditional Polish treats like pierogi, aromatic mulled wine, or oscypek — a smoked cheese often served warm with cranberry sauce. With our guides leading the way, all you need to do is wrap up warm and follow the scent of cinnamon through the market. Other highlights of Poland’s cultural capital include the historic Wawel Castle, the Cloth Hall, the atmospheric Kazimierz district, and the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica, where the bugle call still echoes from the tower each hour.
Transylvania
Although Transylvania is often associated with Halloween, this region of Romania is one of the best places to go in December as the chances of experiencing Christmas markets in snow are really high. On our Transylvania Christmas Markets tour we’ll be based in the picturesque city of Brasov. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, this city is renowned for its mediaeval architecture and charming old town. We’ll get to see highlights like Piata Sfatului - the main square, the town hall, the Black Church and take an excursion to Bran Castle, better known as Dracula’s castle! Although there is very little evidence that Bram Stoker, the author of ‘Dracula’, was actually inspired by the castle to use this as a setting for the iconic villain’s lair; it’s still an impressive sight to behold as the castle is perched on a hilltop and surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
India
Our India holidays offer a vibrant blend of culture and history. In the dazzling city of Jaipur, you can admire the majestic Amber Fort, with its ornate halls and sweeping views, and the delicate lattice windows of the Hawa Mahal. Stroll through bustling bazaars filled with colourful textiles, intricate jewellery and aromatic spices. In Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes,” take in the serene beauty of Lake Pichola, where the water mirrors domed palaces and floating temples in the soft evening light. In Agra, marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal as its white marble shimmers in the soft light, then explore the city’s Mughal heritage at Agra Fort. Together, these highlights reveal the splendour and diversity of northern India, best enjoyed in December’s comfortable, cooler temperatures.
Tuscany, Italy
A Tuscany holiday in December will be during the off-peak tourist season, so you can expect fewer crowds at the top sights and a more relaxed atmosphere on these holidays to Italy. On our Christmas and New Year Tuscany tours, enjoy guided excursions to Florence, Siena, Pisa and Luca, where we’ll indulge in art, history, architecture, and Tuscan cuisine. Tuscany is famous for its landscapes of rolling hills, vineyards, lines of Cypress trees, olive groves and wheat fields. In December, whilst the scenery will be different compared to Spring and Summer, it has more of a serene beauty. Even travelling through the Tuscan countryside and seeing all the quaint towns twinkle with their Christmas lights is a delightful experience.
Berlin, Germany
The historic and vibrant capital of Germany, Berlin offers so much to visitors with something to see and do at every turn. With over 80 Christmas markets, the city really comes alive with a festive spirit in December. The markets are renowned for their authentic atmosphere and enticing treats, from sizzling bratwurst to spiced biscuits still warm from the oven. On our guided tours of Berlin, uncover highlights like the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of peace and reunification, and visit the Reichstag, Museum Island and Checkpoint Charlie. Follow our local guide to the East Side Gallery, where vivid murals tell the story of Berlin’s past, before ducking into a cosy café for a hot chocolate as snow flurries pass the window. Everything is taken care of so you can simply enjoy the city’s winter charm.
Ready to travel in December?
Whether you’re looking to explore a new city and its Christmas markets or escape the usual festive rush, we have a variety of December holiday destinations. From mulled wine under Gothic spires to sunshine on palace terraces, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on making memories. Begin your journey with Travel Department; December’s waiting. Find out how to celebrate Christmas in Europe, find unique gifts for travel lovers, or plan something even greater.
