December isn’t just about Christmas. Many of Europe’s cities are fantastic opportunities to experience the festive charm that the season brings, but there is plenty more to see and do in many of the continent's most popular cities that aren’t connected to the holidays.
Snow-capped mountains, historic architecture, or the festive spirit all form part of the offering, prompting every winter traveller to consider a trip through Europe during this season. The opportunity to explore during the final month of the year is possibly even a little magical, and there is no shortage of places to go.
Edinburgh
For the festive season, the Royal Mile and beautiful cobblestone streets of the capital of Scotland are illuminated with twinkling lights, while the famous Edinburgh Christmas Market draws crowds eager for some Christmas cheer. The city’s Winter Wonderland in Princes Street Gardens features an ice-skating rink and a giant Ferris wheel, offering panoramic views of the city’s wintery skyline, glittering merrily by night and ramping up that festive-feel-good-factor.
But away from the festivities, a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched dramatically on Castle Rock, is a highlight for all who wander through its towering entrance to share in its fairytales. Tours to the castle – the jewel in the crown of Scotland’s tourism industry – provide a fascinating insight into Scotland’s rich and often complicated history. Hiking to the top of Arthur’s Seat – an ancient volcanic peak – offers stunning vistas of the city and beyond, made all the more magical after a light dusting of snow. There is plenty to see and explore in this delightful city during December without the presence of as many tourists if visited earlier in the month before the Christmas period.
Munich
Munich is usually associated with delicious Bavarian beer, however, as the Yule Tide approaches, its Christmas markets take over the city as a highlight of the season. The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is one of the oldest and most enchanting markets in Germany, where visitors can browse local stalls, sip on hot glühwein, and enjoy hearty local delicacies like bratwurst sausages and stollen cake.
Beyond the markets, Munich’s neo-Gothic architecture and the towering Frauenkirche Cathedral are especially captivating under the glow of holiday lights. The Residenz, a former royal palace, is well worth a visit, and taking a tour of the city's famous beer kellers leads to a fascinating discovery of the city’s rich history. The nearby Bavarian Alps are only a short train journey away for skiing or simply enjoying the snow-covered landscape for more adventurous city-breakers looking for an unforgettable December.
Florence
Florence may not immediately come to mind as a winter destination, but December reveals a quieter but no less charming side to this hallowed birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. The usually crowded streets and museums are wonderfully tranquil, and visitors can fully appreciate iconic landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery, the Buboli Gardens, the Santa Maria Del Fiore Cathedral, and Michelangelo’s statue of David.
December is also an excellent time to explore Tuscany’s rich and hearty cuisine, with seasonal treats such as panettone and roasted chestnuts available throughout the city, along with classic Tuscan staples like wild boar ragu and pane sciocco. Whether the time is spent marvelling at Brunelleschi’s dome or enjoying a quiet stroll along the banks of the River Arno, Florence’s rich tapestry of art, history, and food makes for an exceptional city break during December.
Toledo
A former Moorish citadel perched dramatically on a hilltop, Toledo is often referred to as the “City of Three Cultures” for its Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage. Charming cobblestone streets and stunning city architecture combine to provide a picturesque backdrop for a winter escape, making Toledo a delightful December destination – which may even include a light dusting of snow if fortune favours.
The city’s cathedral, one of Spain’s finest Gothic structures, is a melting pot of gilded gold and Baroque artworks – a wonderful tribute to the region’s complex, interconnected history. The city is also known for its artisan sword-making (using the fabled Damascus steel technique) and marzipan. Visitors can wander along the banks of the Tagus River and visit the Alcázar fortress for panoramic views of the city with a complex yet handy network of escalators to cut out traversing the many heights of this ancient settlement. Toledo is surprisingly accessible and accommodating to visit in December.
Graz
Often overlooked in favour of Austria’s larger cities, such as Salzburg and Vienna, Graz is a hidden gem that shines brightly in December. The city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with multiple Christmas markets showcasing regional delicacies like pumpkin seed oil and Schilcher wine. The Hauptplatz market, in particular, features a giant Christmas tree and an ice nativity sculpture, which are magical to behold.
Wandering away from the Christmas-lined streets, visitors can travel up the city’s funicular to Schlossberg Hill, which offers transfixing views of the snow-capped city and mountains. The Kuntshuas is the city’s novel modern art museum and a perfect opportunity to escape from the cold, wandering the galleries. By night, there can be no better pursuit than a visit to the opera house, listening to classical compositions of Austria’s most famous – Mozart and Strauss. Graz has much to offer those seeking a cultured city break during the coldest months of the year.
Reykjavik
Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is a unique city to experience with its dramatic landscapes and fascinating Norse history. The crisp, cold air and potential for dustings of snow add to the magic of the setting, only enhanced by the chance to see the fabled Northern Lights. A short trip outside the city lets you experience Iceland’s natural wonders, including geysers, glaciers, and geothermal lagoons such as the much-visited Blue Lagoon.
Much smaller in size compared to other European cities, Reykjavik is easy to wander around and admire its colourful houses, which are a hallmark of Nordic countries, and explore the city's more modern landmarks such as the Hallgrímskirkja Church. For those who stay until New Year’s Eve, dazzling fireworks and bonfire displays compete with the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights on the clearest nights, which makes for an unforgettable spectacle.
December City Breaks are a wonderful opportunity to explore some of Europe’s cities and appreciate them in an entirely new light. Whilst some destinations will still draw crowds thanks to the Christmas season, opportunities to pursue fine food, the arts, and incredible winter adventures are in strong supply for intrepid travellers during the coldest months of the year.
