I bet you’re tired of the short days, grey skies and chilly air that winter brings. If you’re looking for somewhere warm to escape the gloom this December, why not consider Europe? Not all European destinations get snow in December. For those seeking sunshine in Europe, we’ve compiled a list of warm places to visit in December in Europe.

In these cities, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere while experiencing pleasant temperatures. For this winter getaway, there’s no need for heavy coats, pack light and enjoy a warm December holiday.

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Is It Good to Travel to Europe in December

Of course, traveling in Europe in December is an excellent idea, here’s why:

• Fewer Crowds: Outside of the major Christmas market hubs, you’ll find significantly fewer tourists at major attractions. This means less time queuing and more time enjoying!

• Lower prices: Since it’s the off-season, flight and accommodation prices will be lower.

• Christmas Atmosphere: Many cities are adorned with beautiful Christmas lights and decorations, which create a strong festive vibe.

• Mild Weather Options: Most importantly, by choosing one of the warm European countries in December, specifically the southern and Mediterranean regions, you can enjoy mild, often sunny weather that is ideal for sightseeing.

Best European Cities to Visit in December

The warmest places in Europe in December are usually found in southern Europe. With sunny coastlines and islands, these destinations offer the perfect escape from the cold.

Let’s take a look at the top warm places in Europe in December, offering the perfect balance of mild weather and festive cheer.

1. Lisbon, Portugal
2. Nice, France
3. Marseille, France
4. Málaga, Spain
5. Valencia, Spain
6. Barcelona, Spain
7. Athens, Greece
8. Patras, Greece
9. Valletta, Malta
10. Rome, Italy
11. Naples, Italy
12. Nicosia, Cyprus

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1. Lisbon, Portugal  

Average temperature in December: The daily temperature range is typically between 14 and 17°C (57 and 63°F).

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a coastal city. With its charming coastal scenery and historic city centre, it is a European city that is well worth a visit in December.

Things to Do in December

Lisbon Christmas Market: Held annually in Rossio Square, it may be small in scale but its central location makes it very convenient to visit. Typically running from late November to mid-December, it sells mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

Winter Delicacies: December is the time for a traditional Portuguese Christmas treat called Broas Castelares. This is a traditional Christmas dessert made from sweet potatoes.

Visit Belém: The mild weather is perfect for a trip to the Belém district to see the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower without the massive summer crowds. Be sure to try the famous Pastel de nata here.

Watching the circus show: Lisbon’s renowned circus presents “Corteo” every April and “OVO” in December.

2. Nice, France  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges between 10 and 13°C (50 and 55°F).

Nice enjoys a relatively mild climate due to its location along the Mediterranean coast. While it may be slightly cooler than the Iberian Peninsula, it also offers ample winter sunshine.

Things to Do in December

Promenade des Anglais: Take a walk or bike ride along this famous seaside promenade. Without the summer heat, you can better enjoy the ocean views.

Christmas Market at Place Masséna: The main square transforms into a festive wonderland featuring a Christmas village, ice rink, and Ferris wheel. Of course, Christmas treats like crêpes and mulled wine are also available.

Museum Tour: Explore Nice’s outstanding museums during the off-season, including the Matisse Museum or the Musée Marc Chagall.

3. Marseille, France  

Average temperature in December: The daily average temperature ranges from 10 to 14°C (50 to 57°F).

Marseille, located in the south of France, is the country’s oldest city and a major port. The city’s diverse atmosphere and seafaring history are showcased in its Le Panier district.

Things to Do in December

Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica: Which sits on a hill and offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean. And you can purchase Christmas decorations as souvenirs.

Christmas Market at Vieux-Port: This is Marseille’s main holiday market, held at the Old Port. You can find local crafts, gifts, and Marseille soap as souvenirs there.

Attend the Santon Fair: This annual event begins on the third Sunday in November and continues until January. During the fair, artisans sell the small, painted clay figurines that are used in local Nativity scenes.

Boat Trip to the Calanques: If the sea is calm, take a boat trip to see the stunning limestone cliffs and inlets of the Calanques National Park. Winter sunlight offers exceptional photographic lighting.

4. Málaga, Spain  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 12–18 °C (54–64 °F).

Located on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain is one of the warm European countries in December and a popular destination. Located on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Málaga enjoys a particularly warm climate and is also the birthplace of Picasso. Here you can admire Moorish architecture and relax on the beaches.

Things to Do in December

Calle Larios Christmas Lights: From late November to January each year, Calle Larios hosts a spectacular angel-themed Christmas light display. During this period, meticulously designed musical light shows are staged multiple times every evening.

Castle Tour: Mild weather makes exploring historic castles more comfortable. Be sure to visit Alcazaba Castle and Gibralfaro Castle, where you can also enjoy the city’s night views illuminated by lights.

Beach Stroll: Take a walk along the sandy city beach, La Malagueta. While swimming might be a bit chilly, sunbathing is often possible.

Savoring Holiday Treats: Try the traditional Roscón de Reyes, a citrus flavored,  ring shaped bread found throughout bakeries all December long.

5. Valencia, Spain  

Average temperature in December: The daily average temperature ranges from 8 to 17°C (46 to 63°F).

Valencia is a coastal city and the birthplace of paella. As well as its delicious cuisine, the city is home to futuristic architecture and historical landmarks.

Things to Do in December

City of Arts and Sciences: A large futuristic cultural and architectural complex. Like other attractions, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed visit in December. The complex also served as a filming location for the movies Tomorrowland and Doctor Who.

Central Market: Visit the beautiful Art Nouveau building of the Mercado Central to sample local produce, cheeses, and hams. It’s a great way to experience local life.

Ice Skating: The City of Arts and Sciences will set up an ice rink in December to create festive fun.

6. Barcelona, Spain  

Average temperature in December:The average daily temperature ranges from 9–15 °C (48–59 °F).

Barcelona is a year-round tourist destination in Spain, but the cooler weather in December makes it more suitable for outdoor sightseeing.

Things to Do in December

Fira de Santa Llúcia: Barcelona’s oldest Christmas market, open from November 28 to December 23. Located right at Barcelona Cathedral, it features stalls selling Christmas decorations, keep an eye out for the traditional Caganer figurine.

Sagrada Familia Light: See the famous stained-glass windows of the Sagrada Familia illuminated by the lower-hanging winter sun, which casts a softer, golden glow inside the basilica.

Montjuïc Hill: Take the cable car or walk up Montjuïc for stunning views of the city and harbour. The cooler air makes the climb much easier than in the summer.

Searching for Caga Tió: This Catalan holiday tradition involves a decorated log that can be found at Christmas markets.

7. Athens, Greece  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 9 to 15 °C (48 to 59 °F).

Athens has an even more ancient history. As the capital of Greece and the birthplace of democracy, the city is home to countless ancient ruins and bustling markets.

Things to Do in December

Visiting the Acropolis of Athens: Explore the Parthenon away from the extreme summer heat and large crowds. Step back in time and delve into history.

The Christmas Factory: Located within Technopolis City in Athens, this large-scale holiday event features workshops, amusement rides, and a massive Christmas market, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. It’s perfect for visiting with children.

Syntagma Square: Discover the brightly lit, 19-meter-high Christmas tree in the city’s main square, and maybe even take a spin on the ice rink.

Visiting the Museum: During the winter months from November to March, admission to the Acropolis Museum is half price. Take advantage of this opportunity for an in-depth exploration.

8. Patras, Greece  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 10–16 °C (50–61 °F).

Patras, located on the Peloponnese peninsula, is Greece’s third-largest city and a major port in the west. Unlike Athens, which is packed with tourists, Patras focuses more on local life.

Things to Do in December

Walk the Upper City: Take a gentle hike through the Ano Poli to Patras Castle, where you can get fantastic views of the Gulf of Corinth.

St. Andrew’s Cathedral: Greece’s largest church, a modern Byzantine style structure, hosts traditional choir performances in December.

Patras Christmas Market: Held at George I Square, offering local cuisine and handicrafts. Here you can sample specialty foods like loukoumades and potza soup.

9. Valletta, Malta  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 13–18 °C (55–64 °F).

Valletta is the capital and major port of the island nation of Malta. The city’s unique character is defined by its Baroque architecture and historic palaces. Its compact size makes it ideal for visitors with limited time.

Things to Do in December

St. John’s Co-Cathedral: The church houses exquisite portraits by Caravaggio and hosts various events in December, including the traditional Christmas concert and special Masses.

Mdina Day Trip: Mdina, also known as the ‘Silent City’, is an ancient town in Malta with over 4,000 years of history. It is extremely quiet and one of the best places to experience traditional Maltese culture.

Pantofola Christmas Village: A large-scale Christmas event, often held at the MFCC, offering various festive fun, markets, and entertainment for families.

10. Rome, Italy  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 6–14 °C (43–57 °F).

The capital of Italy, Rome is a city of immense historical significance, boasting numerous ancient ruins and landmarks. It is often referred to as the heart of Roman history, art and culture.

Things to Do in December

Christmas Eve Mass: To attend the important Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican, tickets must be purchased in advance, and please arrive early to avoid the church being full. Alternatively, join the Pope’s Christmas blessing in St. Peter’s Square.

Piazza Navona Market: This famous square hosts a traditional Christmas market, complete with stalls selling sweets, toys, and nativity figures.

Colosseum and Roman Forum: Explore the ancient sites without the stifling summer sun beating down on you. It’s a much more enjoyable experience.

11. Naples, Italy  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 8–15 °C (46–59 °F).

Located on Italy’s southern coast, Naples is the birthplace of pizza. Nearby are the famous ancient city of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius, offering visitors the chance to experience authentic Italian life.

Things to Do in December

Via San Gregorio Armeno: This is the street to visit! It’s famous worldwide for its artisan workshops dedicated to making presepi and detailed figurines, a tradition that intensifies in December.

Pompeii and Vesuvius: Take a day trip to the ancient ruins of Pompeii. The weather makes walking through the vast site significantly more enjoyable.

Pizza: When in Naples, it would be a shame to miss out on the chance to try authentic Italian pizza, especially in December when a piping hot slice is the perfect comfort food.

12. Nicosia, Cyprus  

Average temperature in December: The average daily temperature ranges from 9–17 °C (48–63 °F).

Cyprus, the island nation in the far eastern Mediterranean, Its capital, Nicosia, offers a unique blend of Greek and Turkish Cypriot culture.

Things to Do in December

Old City Walls: Walk or cycle the Venetian Walls that surround the old city. The weather is perfect for this outdoor activity.

Head to Ledra Street: In December, the area is decked out in festive decorations, and you can shop along the main pedestrian street.

Cyprus Museum: Spend time at the island’s largest and oldest archaeological museum.

Traditional Food: Warm up with traditional Cypriot food like souvla or the seasonal Christmas sweets like kourabiedes and melomakarona.

Travel Packing List for Europe in December

Although these cities enjoy relatively mild temperatures in December, nights remain cool with a chance of rain. The key to successfully packing for a winter trip to Southern Europe is layering.

• Appropriate clothing: Cotton or wool tops; long trousers; lightweight sweaters; and a waterproof, lightweight jacket or coat.
• Accessories: A scarf that can be used as a neck warmer, head covering or extra layer of warmth. Also take sunglasses, as the sun remains intense in Mediterranean regions.
• Comfortable shoes: These are essential for sightseeing on potentially damp or cobblestone streets.
• Other essentials: A universal adapter for charging all your devices. Plus, a small backpack for carrying personal items.

FAQ

Where in Europe is it warmest in December?

During December, the warmest places in Europe are consistently found on islands and in the southernmost coastal regions. Cyprus and Malta generally have the highest average daytime temperatures, often reaching 18–19 °C (64–66 °F). Coastal cities in southern Spain, such as Málaga and Seville, also rank among the warmest mainland European cities in December.

Which European country is best for Christmas?

If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas experience, consider Germany or Austria, where you’ll find iconic Christmas markets and exquisite decorations. Popular destinations include Cologne, Vienna and Nuremberg.

Or, for a snow-covered Arctic Christmas, head to Rovaniemi in Finland, the official home of Santa Claus.

Where to ski in December Europe?

There are excellent skiing options in Europe in December.

• The Alps (France, Austria, Switzerland): High-altitude resorts often guarantee snow in December. Val Thorens and Zermatt are usually open early and offer reliable conditions.
• Pyrenees (Spain and Andorra): Resorts like Grandvalira and Baqueira-Beret are also reliable, offering a fantastic experience often at a lower price point than the Alps.
• Dolomites (Italy): The scenery is stunning, and resorts in this region are usually well-prepared for the start of the season.