Christmas Road Trip: Europe in December Travel Ideas

I like to think there’s never a bad time for a road trip, whatever the weather. Yet, driving during the rain or snow can pose challenges. So, if you’re tempted by a festive journey this Christmas, my advice is to keep it short and sweet.

To help you get the most out of your travels, I’ve crafted these mini Christmas road trip itineraries to give you some ideas on where to go in Europe this December.

They offer festive European destinations within a comfortable driving distance, minimising time spent on potentially tricky roads.

Christmas Road Trip

No one wants to spend all their holiday time on the road anyway, so a short road trip with just a few destinations is simple and manageable.

Stick to destinations that are no more than a few hours apart, eliminating the pressure of feeling like you need to rush.

You can pull over for a while if you need to, and you will have more time to relax in your cosy hotel or with a warm drink than out on the road in miserable conditions.

You could take these trips using the train too, of course, and if this is a solo trip for you, then I’d recommend that instead of driving. Train travel in Europe is convenient, reliable and more sustainable than driving.

But if you are travelling in a group or want a little more comfort then having your own car is always nice. Plus, driving gives you the added freedom of coming and going as you please and getting to smaller towns or villages is considerably less hassle.

These mini road trips are centred around the best Christmas markets in Europe, a highlight of travelling in December.

With these destination combinations, you get the big city attractions, bustling Christmas markets of a capital city, and the contrast of a more intimate, relaxing, smaller destination.

I suggest adding a small town or village to your road trip itinerary or somewhere a little off the beaten path to mix things up.

This is how I like to plan all of my trips. I choose places that might be in the same region but maybe with a different culture or language, plus somewhere smaller but intriguing and less talked about.

My recommendations are below, but you can get further ideas with my guide to European Christmas markets for 2023.

Put together, you’ll have a memorable December road trip itinerary with the option of visiting the Christmas markets in each destination.

December Road Trip Itineraries

1. Zagreb – Ljubljana – Trieste

Zagreb, Croatia

In recent years, Zagreb has repeatedly been voted the best Christmas market in Europe.

Zagreb has been underrated as a city break destination for such a long time. It’s nice to see it finally getting some well-deserved recognition.

In December, the main Zagreb Christmas market takes over Ban Jelacic, the centre square of the Lower Town. The Upper Town has its own Christmas market and decorations in the streets.

There are also quiet spots in the parks surrounding the Upper town and great views over the funicular down to the Lower Town. 

Zagreb to Ljubljana
Distance: 140 km.
Driving: 1 hour 45 minutes.
Train: 2 hours 15 minutes.

If you’re interested in exploring the winter charm of Croatia’s capital, read my guide to Zagreb in winter to get some ideas on what to expect.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana has a special place in my heart after spending a few months there one winter. The city is small, compact and adorable.

Slovenians pride themselves on having developed Ljubljana as a sustainable travel destination, and they are achieving great things in protecting their pristine natural resources.

The Ljubljana Christmas market sells eco-friendly, handmade Christmas decorations and gifts; much of the food is local, seasonal and organic. 

Ljubljana to Trieste
Distance: 90 km.
Driving: 1 hour.
Train: 2 hours.

While in Ljubljana, consider exploring nearby Lake Bled; read my guide to Day Trip to Lake Bled for more details.

Trieste, Italy

Just across the Slovenian/Italian border is Trieste, a grand, wealthy Italian city with a massive main square on the waterfront, the place for events, rallies and festivals for centuries.

Piazza Unita d’Italia is the perfect location to watch the sunset over the water while sipping on an Aperol spritz and snacking on Italian Christmas specialties like panettone. 

There’s a lively Christmas market by the Grand Canal and Piazza della Borsa.

Discover the unique blend of Italian and Central European culture in Trieste by reading my guide to Trieste: Prosecco, Gelato and Castles.

2. Nuremberg – Rothenburg – Tuebingen

Nuremberg, Germany

If you want a festive December road trip, Nuremberg Christmas Market is Germany’s largest and most traditional.

The focus is on local products, artisans and customs, and there is a separate children’s market plus an international Christmas market with food and gifts from around the world.

Of course, Nuremberg has interesting historical sights too, like the Imperial Castle, the Nazi Party Rally Ground and the Nuremberg Trials Memorium. 

Nuremberg to Rothenburg
Distance: 80 km.
Driving: 1 hour 10 minutes.
Train: 1 hour 50 minutes.

You might consider a Bavaria road trip if you want to see more of this incredibly popular region.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, one of these hotels near Nuremberg Christmas market might be right for you.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

As one of the few Bavarian towns with untouched medieval architecture within the original city walls, Rothenburg is a hugely popular tourist destination on Germany’s Romantic Road.

Aside from the obvious aesthetic reasons to add Rothenburg to your road trip, you can visit the Criminal Museum to see medieval torture devices and shop at Käthe Wohlfahrt, a unique Christmas store selling traditional German Christmas decorations.

Rothenburg to Tuebingen
Distance: 185 km.
Driving: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Train: 3 hours 40 minutes.

Tuebingen, Germany

A small university town near Stuttgart, Tuebingen’s old town was virtually untouched during the war, leaving the original medieval buildings intact.

The Market Square presents regular events and festivals, including the Christmas market in December. Head down to the Necker River for pretty views of the colourful riverside homes and visit Judengasse, the former Jewish neighbourhood in Tuebingen.

3. Dresden – Prague – Cesky Krumlov

Dresden, Germany

The Dresden Christmas markets always come out on top of my best Christmas markets lists. It’s a gorgeous city, rebuilt after the war but in its original baroque style.

You’ll find a huge variety of markets and Christmas events, from the oldest Christmas market in Europe to a replica Medieval Christmas market.

Along with the Christmas markets, be sure to visit the New Green Vault, Zwinger, Statoper and Frauenkirche. Walk across Augustus Bridge to visit the alternative Neustadt. 

Here’s my guide to boutique hotels in Dresden for ideas on where to stay, including some good value options.

Dresden to Prague
Distance: 150 km.
Driving: 2 hours 10 minutes.
Train: 2 hours.

Prague, Czechia

The Czech capital never sleeps. It’s a massive tourist destination, busy day and night. I’ve visited Prague in winter a number of times, and it never gets old or boring.

Be sure to start the day in a famous Prague coffee shop and take a Prague food tour to get a taste of Czech cuisine. Walk across Charles Bridge at sunrise to enjoy the views of Prague Castle in peace.  

Prague to Cesky Krumlov
Distance: 170 km.
Driving: 2 hours 15 minutes.
Train: It’s a little difficult to get to by train.

To discover where to find delicious coffee in Prague, read my guide to the best cafes in Prague.

Cesky Krumlov, Czechia

Cesky Krumlov is a small but hugely popular picturesque Bohemian town not far from Prague. The historic 13th-century castle sits above the winding Vltava River. Cesky Krumlov is ideal for a quiet end to a Christmas road trip in Central Europe.

4. Budapest – Szeged – Subotica

Budapest, Hungary

Home to Europe’s most modern and vibrant Christmas markets, the city is bustling with free things to do in Budapest in winter.

Visit the House of Terror museum, Buda Castle, or go ice skating at the City Park. Try langos, the famous Hungarian street food topped with garlic and sour cream.

Browse the Vorosmarty Square Christmas market for handmade Hungarian gifts and end the day watching the sunset across from the Hungarian Parliament.  

Budapest to Szeged
Distance: 175 km.
Driving: 2 hours.
Train: 2 hours 45 minutes.

To find the ideal place to stay in the Hungarian capital, read my guide on where to stay in Budapest.

Szeged, Hungary

Szeged is a small town close to the Serbian border known for its beautiful art nouveau architecture, its huge Jewish synagogue, and the pretty Christmas market stalls in Szechenyi Square. 

Surprisingly, there’s a lot to do in this small city, including the famous thermal baths. Read my full guide to things to do in Szeged in winter and find out where to stay.

Szeged to Subotica
Distance: 50 km.
Driving: 1 hour driving. Make sure you have all your papers in order and travel insurance for Serbia. If you’re renting a car, you probably won’t be able to drive it outside of the EU. I suggest getting the train instead.
Train: 2 hours.

Subotica, Serbia

Cross the border from Szeged into the northern Serbian town of Subotica. Here, you’ll experience even more stylish art nouveau buildings but in a much quieter setting, well off the beaten path.

This destination won’t be for everyone, but if you’re open to crossing into Serbia, it’ll be an interesting experience.

5. Vienna – Salzburg – Hallstatt

Vienna, Austria

Why not plan a classic Austrian Christmas road trip starting in Vienna? It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful winter city destinations and a city with the most diverse and traditional Christmas markets.

Vienna is incredibly beautiful when the grand buildings along the ring road are under a blanket of fresh snow. I first witnessed snow in Europe here, and I’ll never forget it. If you add Vienna to your itinerary, it’s something to look forward to.

Don’t worry about the cold. Some of the city’s most popular attractions are museums and famous Vienna coffee shops, meaning you don’t have to be outdoors much at all if you don’t want to.

Then, you can visit a different Christmas market in Vienna each evening, warming up with mulled wine and hearty food. 

Vienna to Salzburg
Distance: 315 km.
Driving: 3 hours 20 minutes.
Train: 2 hours 30 minutes.

Salzburg, Austria

It’s a three-hour drive (the train is faster) west from Vienna to Austria’s second most famous city, Salzburg. It’s known for its hilltop fortress, dry (sorry, but it is) Sacher torte and the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace.

Salzburg is an unforgettable classic Austrian city with a compact, intimate Christmas market held every December. 

Salzburg to Hallstatt
Distance: 75 km.
Driving: 1 hour 20 minutes.
Train: 2 hours.

Read up on things to do in Sazlburg and it’s incredible sights, sounds and soufflé.

Hallstatt, Austria

On the way back to Vienna, stop by the most picturesque village in Austria, the lakeside village of Hallstatt.

If you are lucky enough to visit when it has been snowing, you’ll be luckier than I am. I dream of visiting and experiencing a white Christmas in Hallstatt.

But Hallstatt is in a stunning location, no matter the time of the year.

I highly recommend an overnight stay, but if you’re pressed for time, a day trip to Hallstatt is possible.

6. Brussels – Ghent – Lille

Brussels, Belgium

You could easily make this Christmas road trip all about food. Starting with Brussels, the Grand Place is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe and the location of a huge, bustling Christmas market.

From there, I’d suggest taking a food tour to experience classic Belgian dishes and snacks like waffles and frites.

This Brussels food tour is a great introduction to the city as you get to eat incredible food while being shown the city sights, or you can take a self-guided tour.

Brussels to Ghent
Distance: 55 km.
Driving: 50 minutes.
Train: 35 minutes.

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is also a foodie hub, the heart of Flemish Belgium and one of many excellent day trips from Brussels (an alternative to a road trip).

Take a tour of the historic centre to see Gravensteen Castle, Graslei and the harbourside guildhalls. Ghent is stunning; don’t leave it off your itinerary.

Ghent to Lille
Distance: 75 km.
Driving: 1 hour.
Train: 1 hour 15 minutes.

Lille, France

Across the French border is one of France’s great foodie cities, Lille.

Lille is similar to Ghent with its Flemish architecture and design museums but has a unique blend of Flemish and French food.

Try local specialties at an estaminet (a Flemish pub), have tea and waffles at the very fancy Meert and indulge in a light and delicious Merveilleux dessert.

I have a complete food and history guide to Lille that might tempt you to visit.

7. Berlin – Potsdam – Rostock

Berlin, Germany

Nowhere compares to Berlin. You’ll find anything and everything you could want in this city, from hipster Kreuzberg to sophisticated Charlottenburg.

Visit historical sights and Cold War museums (Context tours Berlin is great for history), shop at alternative boutique stores, choose from every cuisine in the world and pick up Christmas markets in each Berlin neighbourhood. 

Berlin to Potsdam
Distance: 35 km.
Driving: 45 minutes.
Train: 30 minutes.

Potsdam, Germany

Practically an outer neighbourhood of Berlin, Potsdam is worth visiting for the incredible Sanssouci Palace, the home of the former King of Prussia.

The formal gardens and orangery might be closed in winter, but it is still a nice place to wander.

Potsdam is a quiet spot away from crowded Berlin, and there is plenty to do, including a visit to its own Blue Light Christmas market or the Romantic Christmas Village on Krongut Bornstedt. 

Potsdam to Rostock
Distance: 230 km.
Driving: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Train: 2 hours 45 minutes.

Rostock, Germany

Rostock and the adjoining city Warnemuende will not be on many travellers’ radars, but the coastal city is worth a quick visit.

Rostock has classic, colourful merchant houses, while Warnemuende is more of a fishing village with quaint houses and bars serving hot grog or hot toddy.

At Warnemuende’s Baltic Sea beach, you can visit the lighthouse and maybe walk along the snow-covered sand.

You can even take a ferry to Copenhagen from Warnemuende to extend your winter holiday.

8. Munich – Innsbruck – Vaduz

Munich, Germany

Almost every neighbourhood in Munich has its own Christmas market. The biggest is in Marienplatz, Munich’s central square and the location of both the New Town Hall and the Old Town Hall.

Munich in December is also a great place for shopping, sightseeing and museum hopping.

If you like to drink, Munich has the biggest beer halls in the world where you can drink beer by the litre while listening to folk music and eating heavy food. 

Here’s a list of where to stay in Munich if you’re planning a trip.

Munich to Innsbruck
Distance: 150 km.
Driving: 2 hours 10 minutes.
Train: 1 hour 45 minutes.

Innsbruck, Austria

A short drive across the border, nestled between mountain peaks, is the pretty Austrian city of Innsbruck.

The Innsbruck ski fields are literally 10 minutes from the city centre, so you can spend your days skiing and still have time to enjoy the Innsbruck Christmas market each evening. 

I’ve been a few times, and it’s a relaxing winter destination. Here are my favourite things to do in Innsbruck.

Innsbruck to Vaduz
Distance: 180 km.
Driving: 2 hours 25 minutes.
Train: 2 hours 50 minutes.

Vaduz, Liechtenstein

If you drive two hours to the west of Innsbruck, you’ll cross another border, this time into Liechtenstein.

Not many visitors take the time to visit this tiny nation, but it’s worth spending a day or two in the capital, Vaduz, to visit a new country and get your passport stamped for fun.

This is just a sample of the kind of self-guided Christmas road trips you could take this December.

If you didn’t find what you’re looking for, one of these winter road trip itineraries might be more for you.

Otherwise, if you’re planning a trip around New Year’s, I have this guide to the best New Year destinations in Europe that you might find helpful.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Consider these suggestions for a more sustainable road trip in Europe:

Stay in eco-friendly accommodations: When travelling through Europe, opt for hotels that are committed to sustainability. Many hotels, especially in progressive cities like Vienna or Berlin, have shifted to renewable energy sources. So, do a bit of research beforehand and choose places that align with eco-friendly principles.

Mindful eating habits: As you explore European culinary delights, be conscious of your food waste. When in countries like France or Italy, known for their ample and diverse food servings, it’s easy to over-order. Request smaller portions if you’re unsure of finishing, and consider carrying a reusable container for leftovers.

Ethical purchases: European markets, like those in Ljubljana or Zagreb, can be tempting with a variety of artisanal goods. However, commit to buying only what you genuinely need or will use, supporting local craftspeople and avoiding mass-produced trinkets.

Sustainable diets: Embrace the local and seasonal plant-based produce offered by Europe’s diverse regions. For instance, indulge in fresh olives and local cheeses in the Mediterranean, reducing the carbon footprint linked with transporting goods.

Opt for sustainable modes of transport: While the charm of a driving holiday is undeniable, think about the bigger picture. You could hire an electric vehicle (EV) for parts of your trip, especially in countries with an extensive charging station network. Alternatively, adapt some of these tips for train travel, a popular and efficient mode of transportation in Europe.

Remember, it’s not about perfection but making conscious choices that reduce our impact while still enjoying the journey.

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