It seems increasingly unlikely to experience a white Christmas in Europe. But if you’re like me, you’ll want to find a place that snows for a cosy holiday abroad.
Where Does it Snow in December?
Obviously, it’s hard to say what will happen; every December is different, but these 10 destinations have great potential for winter snow.
1. Munich
The Bavarian capital is one of Germany’s most popular travel destinations, but the city has even more to offer in winter. Munich’s main Christmas market is in Marienplatz, the extravagant main square, but there are many smaller markets too, like the medieval market at Wittelsbacherplatz. Alternative markets like the Pink Christmas Market and Tollwood Winter Festival are other fun options.
When the temperature drops too low for comfort, head to the museum quarter to experience old, new and modern art at the Pinakotheken (Alte, Neue und Moderne). Follow that with some of the best shopping in Europe and a touristy dinner at the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall, including live cheesy Bavarian music.
Read my guide to visiting Munich in December.
Stay at one of these boutique hotels in Munich.
2. Ohrid
The last time I wrote about Ohrid, I gushed about how it was the most peaceful destination in the Balkans. Watching the sunset from the church, the gentle sounds of water lapping on the lake edge, a small fishing boat puttering by. It was paradise. I honestly believe it’s true, at least in winter.
Then I visited in the summer. Quite a different experience. Music was blaring all night long. Every single cafe was filled with smoking customers. Not to mention the party boats. Oof. The beautiful, quiet lake was tarnished by drunk tourists screaming and partying on crowded boats circling the shore. I’m clearly showing my age here, but honestly, that was not a great experience.
The moral of the story is to visit Ohrid in the off-season if you want a peaceful winter experience. Does it snow in Ohrid? Yes, it can! I wasn’t lucky enough to see snow on my visits, but it’s definitely possible.
Here’s what to expect in winter in Ohrid.
Book one of my recommended lakeside hotels in Ohrid.
3. Amsterdam
I was shocked and a little scared the first time I visited Amsterdam for New Year’s Eve. Fireworks were going off in every direction on every street, over the canals and out the windows. It was way too much for me at the time.
You rarely see individuals set off fireworks in Australia, and I wasn’t expecting this to be a thing elsewhere. But I later learned this is how they do fireworks in Amsterdam and much of Europe. Now that I know what to expect, I’m much more chilled about the whole experience and even though I still get nervous, I can now appreciate the craziness of New Year’s in Amsterdam.
If you visit Amsterdam late in December, you can visit the Christmas markets, all the fantastic museums, restaurants and bars, experience the New Year celebrations, and maybe even see some snow along the canals, like I did.
Discover the best time to visit the Netherlands.
4. Ghent
Sometimes you just want an easy-to-visit destination. Somewhere that’s hassle-free to get to, the sights are within walking distance, and the food is simple yet delicious. That’s how I see Ghent in the Flemish region of Belgium.
Ghent in December is a stress-free weekend destination that requires little planning and won’t cost a fortune. You don’t need to plan much because you’ll naturally come across most sights as you wander around. Given that Ghent is a smaller city, you won’t have to spend all day rushing around to see the sights; you can sleep late or have a leisurely lunch, do a little window shopping or visit a museum.
Ghent is a great day trip from Brussels.
5. Venice
One of my most special travel experiences was watching the sunrise over St Mark’s Square in Venice with gondolas bopping on the lagoon in the distance. It was a foggy, misty morning, creating a mysterious atmosphere and beautiful scenes. It was just stunning.
Even though Venice is known for being overcrowded and over-touristed, I shared this experience with few others. There was hardly anyone else out and about. This is the benefit of visiting Venice in December, or any other highly popular destination for that matter. Fewer people bother to venture out when it’s cold and foggy. If you can get out of your warm bed while it’s still dark and minus outside, you’ll be rewarded with empty squares, calm canals and tourist-free photos.
As the climate warms, snow is becoming less common in Venice, but you’ll likely experience a foggy morning, a classic, eery experience in Venice. It’s a destination you might want to get to before rising waters and environmental degradation do further damage to this fragile ecosystem and the historic city. Please limit negative tourism impacts by avoiding cruise ships.
Read my guide to spending 24 hours in Venice.
6. Transylvania
The destination of medieval kingdoms, eastern invasions and legends of violent impalement. Transylvania has a wicked history that goes far deeper than Dracula. The region has a recent mixture of Hungarian, Germanic and Romanian influences and so much more going further back.
If you’re looking for a more affordable European holiday in December, Transylvania is hard to beat, with incredible cities and castles. Consider Timisoara for its bold secessionist architecture, Sibiu for its Saxon history, Brasov for its access to Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) or Sighisoara for the most beautiful medieval town in all of Romania (pictured above).
If you fancy driving in winter, read my complete Romania road trip guide.
7. Zurich
If your budget isn’t much of an issue or you’d prefer a luxury destination, Zurich in December is amazing. The Old Town has a cosy feel and is great for shopping, drinking Swiss hot chocolate, or visiting the Zurich Christmas markets.
Zurich is especially great if you love travelling for food. There are so many options when eating out, but look for classic dishes like rosti and fondue, as well as modern vegetarian restaurants and hipster cafes. You can get takeaway meals or picnic supplies at the fantastic Markthalle im Viaduct, or at one of many delicious bakeries and chocolate shops like John Baker and Vollenweider Chocolatier. But yeah, just to reiterate, Zurich is not for the budget-conscious.
What to expect on a weekend in Zurich.
My guide to where to stay in Zurich, covering all budgets.
8. Hamburg
I got extremely lucky in Hamburg. A huge storm covered the city in powdery snow the day I arrived. Then the clouds parted, and we had clear blue skies for the rest of the trip. The city looked so beautiful from every angle. I’m sure the locals weren’t quite so happy, but I love snow!
Hamburg is one of the coolest cities in all of Europe. It’s full of hipster cafes and vegetarian and vegan restaurants mixed in with classic Hamburg hamburgers. If, like me, you get to visit Hamburg in December and the snow is falling, take heart in the fact that the city has some incredible indoor attractions, including the city’s famous thermal spas, the quirky Miniatur Wunderland, countless museums, and, if you feel like you can handle the cold, ice skating is a must.
Read my top things to do in Hamburg in winter.
9. Stockholm
The great thing about visiting Sweden in winter, or anywhere in northern Europe, is that they are geared up for it. It’s not like other places when there’s a light dusting of snow and the entire city grinds to a halt (hello London!).
Stockholm is beautiful in winter; they know what they’re doing, and there are loads of indoor activities to keep you busy. This includes countless outdoor activities, such as ice skating, drinking mulled wine, and even skiing. I prefer activities of the eating variety, and if you’re with me on that, you need to educate yourself on all things fika.
My experience spending a weekend in Stockholm.
10. Tirana
As mentioned in my recent guide to things to do in winter in Tirana, the Albanian capital is a city that never sleeps, and it’s an interesting off-the-beaten-path winter destination.
Albania’s most popular national holiday is New Year’s. This means you can find fireworks all around the country and street parties in Tirana. Start your winter visit in Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, where you’ll find many events, including the Christmas market and New Year celebrations. From Tirana, the port city of Durres is only a 30-minute drive away, or you can visit the mountain village Kruja or take the cable car up to Mount Dajti.
Read my complete list of recommended day trips from Tirana.
Find out where to stay in Tirana and which neighbourhoods are worth exploring.
Europe in December
One of Europe’s most popular December experiences is visiting Christmas markets. I highly recommend it if you get the chance. If you have time, you could take a Christmas road trip to visit several destinations in one trip. Or take a longer winter road trip.
My list of Dresden Christmas Markets will give you an idea of what to expect, or read my detailed guide to the best Christmas markets in Europe.
This is just a sample of some of the best places to visit in December. Don’t be put off by the cold weather or by places that get snow. Snow is one of the reasons to go! Winter in Europe is a wonderful experience; fewer crowds are always a bonus.
Sustainable Travel Tips
- Eco-Friendly Stays: There’s a growing trend of hotels championing sustainability throughout Europe. Opt for places that operate on renewable energy sources. Whether you’re in the bustling streets of Tirana or the serene landscapes of Ohrid, there’s likely an eco-friendly hotel nearby waiting to welcome you, all while minimising your travel footprint.
- Conscious Food Choices: European cuisine is undeniably diverse and delicious. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of your food consumption. Order portions you can comfortably finish to avoid wasting dishes. In cities like Zurich or Sighisoara, you’ll find eateries that source locally, benefiting both local farmers and the environment.
- Thoughtful Shopping: Europe’s markets, from Amsterdam’s flower markets to Munich’s Christmas markets, are a treasure trove of goods. While the allure is undeniable, practice restraint and prioritise purchases you’ll genuinely cherish or use, encouraging sustainable consumer habits.
- Plant-Based Options: European cities like Hamburg and Amsterdam are becoming hubs for vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Even if you’re not strictly plant-based, trying out these options occasionally can be both a culinary adventure and an environmentally friendly choice.
- Sustainable Transport: Cruises might offer panoramic views, but their environmental impact is significant. Instead, immerse yourself in the landscapes by taking scenic train routes. While driving has its own charms, you might find train travel to be an eco-friendly and equally mesmerising alternative. If driving is essential, hiring an EV has a lower impact.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.