best european countries to visit in december

As winter arrives in Europe, the air feels crisp and magical. The Christmas markets in Tallinn buzz with life, while Fuerteventura’s beaches shine in the sun. December is a time when Europe’s beauty is less crowded and prices are lower. It’s the perfect season to find Europe’s hidden treasures.

Winter travel has a special charm, especially in Europe’s off-season. You can find cozy Christmas markets, exciting outdoor sports, or warm island climates. This guide will show you the best places for a winter wonderland adventure.

Key Takeaways

  • Explore Europe’s best Christmas markets, including the enchanting displays in Tallinn, Estonia.
  • Escape the chill with a winter beach getaway to Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands.
  • Discover the winter adventure sports and stunning landscapes of Snowdonia National Park in Wales.
  • Enjoy mild weather and outdoor activities in the beautiful island of Madeira, Portugal.
  • Uncover the top European countries to visit in December for a magical winter escape.

Tallinn, Estonia: Best for Christmas Markets

Tallinn, Estonia, is a winter wonderland in Northern Europe. Its medieval center is filled with twinkling lights. The Christmas markets in Tallinn are a highlight, offering a festive experience.

The Tallinn Christmas market runs from December 1st to January 7th. You’ll smell traditional Estonian delicacies like black pudding and gingerbread. It’s cozy and intimate, unlike big European Christmas markets.

Tallinn has more than just a Christmas market. It offers winter travel experiences. You can stay in great-value boutique hotels and try fine dining options.

“Tallinn was the first place in Europe to have a public Christmas tree, dating back to 1441.”

Tallinn, Estonia, is perfect for a winter wonderland or a Christmas city in Europe. It has a charming medieval core, a magical Christmas market, and great places to eat and stay. It’s the ideal festive getaway this holiday season.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands: Best for a Winter Beach Getaway

Fuerteventura is a sunny spot in the Canary Islands, perfect for a winter beach vacation. Even in January, it’s warm with average highs of 21°C (70°F). This makes it a rare place in Europe where you can enjoy the beach in winter.

The island’s volcanic landscapes and stunning coastlines are ideal for a relaxing getaway. You can explore long Playa del Matorral, unique Cofete, and the protected Parque Natural de Corralejo. These spots attract those looking for a fuerteventura canary islands and a winter beach getaway europe during the december holidays europe and seasonal european trips.

IslandAverage High Temp (°C/°F)Record High Temp (°C/°F)Average Sunshine (hrs/day)
Tenerife South22.8°C / 73°F30°C / 86°F6
Gran Canaria22.2°C / 72°F29.4°C / 85°F6
Fuerteventura22°C / 71.6°F29.5°C / 85.1°F6
Lanzarote21.8°C / 71.2°F27.5°C / 81.5°F6

The Canary Islands get over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. In winter, Fuerteventura’s average temperature is 20°C (69°F), with little rain. This is perfect for cycling, hiking, windsurfing, and diving. Whether you want to relax on the beach or have an adventure, Fuerteventura is the best place for it.

fuerteventura canary islands

Snowdonia, Wales: Best for Winter Adventure Sports

Snowdonia National Park in Wales is a winter paradise for those who love the outdoors. It has mountains, coastline, lakes, and forests that make a beautiful setting for winter sports. Even when it’s cold, local companies teach you how to stay safe and navigate the park.

Adventure seekers can try abseiling down cliffs or rafting on fast rivers. You can also explore old mines or bounce on trampolines in caves. For more, there are hiking trails and ziplines to explore the snowdonia wales scenery.

Whether you’re experienced or new to winter adventure sports europe, Snowdonia has something for everyone. Dive into the park’s magical winter escapes and see why it’s a top snowy wonderlands europe spot.

Uncovering Snowdonia's Thrilling Treasures

The mountains, lakes, and forests of Snowdonia National Park are perfect for winter fun. Local companies teach outdoor skills, so everyone can enjoy the park safely. Activities like abseiling, zip-lining, boating, and underground trampolining make it a december holidays europe dream come true.

ActivityLocationPrice
SnowshoeingSnowdonia National Park£475 per person
Ice ClimbingSnowdonia National Park£249 per person
Guided Winter WalkingSnowdonia National Park£695 per person
“Snowdonia National Park is a true winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of thrilling adventure sports and activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s stunning natural beauty.”

Madeira, Portugal: Best for Outdoor Activities in Warm Weather

Madeira, a beautiful island in the Atlantic, is closer to Morocco than mainland Portugal. It’s a great winter spot with its sunny weather and lots of outdoor fun. Even in December holidays Europe, it’s warm, with temps up to 20°C (68°F). You can explore the levadas (irrigation channels) or enjoy a poncha at a bar with ocean views.

Funchal, the capital, has lots of culture, like the Sé cathedral and Mercado dos Lavradores. Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village, is peaceful. The weather is perfect for activities like trail running, mountain biking, and canyoning.

ActivityBest Time to Visit
HikingMarch to May, October to November
Scuba DivingJune to September
Whale WatchingApril to October
SurfingOctober to April

Madeira’s madeira portugal warm weather and outdoor fun make it a top pick for a winter escape. It’s full of adventure and relaxation.

“Madeira is one of the most beautiful and underrated destinations in Europe. The perfect blend of lush landscapes, mild climate, and charming culture make it a true hidden gem.”
madeira portugal

Best European Countries to Visit in December

December turns Europe into a winter wonderland, full of magical places for a festive trip. From the magical Christmas markets of Tallinn, Estonia to the snow-covered Bavarian Alps in Germany, Europe is a treasure trove of best european countries to visit in december, christmas markets europe, winter travel europe, december holidays europe, festive destinations europe, yuletide getaways, christmas cities europe, magical winter escapes, snowy wonderlands europe, seasonal european trips.

Tallinn’s medieval old town is a cozy, festive destinations europe spot. It’s filled with twinkling lights and a lively Christmas market. Try traditional foods like black pudding and gingerbread while exploring charming hotels and fine restaurants. Germany’s Bavarian region is also a must-see, with its snowy wonderlands europe and christmas cities europe. Here, fairytale castles and snow-covered landscapes create a magical atmosphere.

DestinationHighlights
Tallinn, EstoniaCharming Christmas markets, medieval old town
Bavarian Alps, GermanySnow-covered castles, winter sports
Côte d’Azur, FranceOff-season glamor, mild weather
Santorini, GreeceGreek island experience without crowds

The Canary Islands of Spain offer a warm winter travel europe getaway. Fuerteventura has stunning beaches and a mild climate, perfect for sunbathing. Wales’ Snowdonia National Park is great for winter hiking and underground exploration.

“Europe has something to offer every type of traveler in the winter months.”

Whether you want a cozy yuletide getaways or an exciting magical winter escapes, Europe has it all. There’s a best european countries to visit in december experience for everyone.

Conclusion

Europe in winter is full of magical places and experiences. You can find charming Christmas markets and medieval buildings in Tallinn. Or, enjoy outdoor sports in Snowdonia and warm weather in Madeira. There’s something for everyone.

Traveling in the off-season means fewer people, lower prices, and less wait time at attractions. Paris’s cozy cafes and the Swiss Alps’ snow are just a few highlights. Planning ahead lets you enjoy Europe’s winter wonders and make memories that last.

Ready to explore Europe’s winter magic? Whether you want a festive holiday, snowy adventures, or sunny beaches, Europe has it all. Discover the local flavors and soak in the atmosphere. Your winter wanderlust will be fulfilled, and you’ll want to come back.

FAQ

What are the best European countries to visit in December?

Top spots in December include Tallinn, Estonia, for its magical Christmas markets. Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands offers a sunny climate. Snowdonia, Wales, is great for winter sports. And Madeira, Portugal, has warm weather and outdoor activities.

What makes Tallinn, Estonia a great Christmas destination?

Tallinn’s medieval center is magical in December. It’s filled with twinkling lights and Toompea Castle. The Christmas market in the town square offers traditional foods and a festive vibe without the crowds.

Why is Fuerteventura, Canary Islands a good winter beach getaway?

Fuerteventura has average highs of 21°C (70°F) in January. This makes it a rare winter beach destination in Europe.

What kind of winter adventures can be found in Snowdonia National Park, Wales?

Snowdonia offers winter walking, rafting, and exploring abandoned mines. Companies teach mountain safety and navigation. This lets visitors explore the park’s stunning landscapes safely.

What makes Madeira, Portugal a unique winter destination?

Madeira can reach 20°C (68°F) in February. It’s perfect for exploring levadas or enjoying ocean-view bars. The island also offers trail running, mountain biking, and canyoning in its mild weather.

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