The coziness of the winter months is just around the corner. December, in particular, is filled with festive cheer. With Christmas on the horizon, every city immerses itself in the holiday spirit. Lights, candles, mulled wine, and fire pits – all the warmth and charm are brought out. What could be more delightful than discovering a new city during this time? Here you’ll find the best city trips for December.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges exudes charm all year round. But the quaint houses, elegant buildings, and cobbled streets, combined with Christmas lights and fir trees, make this medieval city truly magical. Perfect for a crisp December walk, followed by warming up in a cozy café with a mug of hot Belgian chocolate.
Also fun: Between November 22 and January 5, you can take a walk through the historic city center to admire the most beautiful lights and Christmas decorations, stroll across one of the Christmas markets, or skate a lap at Minnewater.
Dresden, Germany
If there’s one city that knows how to organize a Christmas market, it’s Dresden. Every year, the German city transforms into a fairy tale when the Striezelmarkt begins. This Christmas market is a time-honored tradition, dating back to 1434, making it the oldest Christmas market in the country. A unique destination for a December city trip!
Paris, France
Whether you call it the city of love or the city of lights, one thing is certain: it’s the romantic destination for a December city trip. Visit museums on rainy days, enjoy French cuisine in charming bistros, and stroll through the shopping streets in search of beautiful Christmas gifts. Warm yourself with French red wine and walk along the Seine while snow gently falls. How romantic…
Riga, Latvia
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, this is your destination. The Baltic city turns into a Christmas movie set in winter, thanks to the frozen Daugava River and a thick blanket of snow. Walk through the charming streets, cheer on an ice hockey team, or visit the Latvian National Opera for a special Christmas ballet performance like The Nutcracker. A unique city trip!
London, England
Christmas in London can only be magical. The lively English capital remains a popular destination during the holidays. The bustling pubs, decorated Georgian houses, and theater shows create a festive mood.
The famous shopping streets Oxford Street and Regent Street compete for the most beautiful Christmas lights. From November 14 to January 3, you can enjoy a special bus tour or go skating on the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House. Sounds like a fairy tale, right?
Valkenburg, Netherlands
This Limburg city is also called the Christmas capital of the Netherlands and was even voted one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe last year. That says it all, doesn’t it?
The Christmas markets in Valkenburg are unique. They are located underground in the marl caves. With illuminated stalactites, artisan stalls, and Christmas decorations, the caves are made cozy and festive. Outside, you’ll also find a beautifully decorated town and Christmas parades.
New York, United States
December in New York… It’s something you have to experience at least once because Americans know how to celebrate Christmas. Admire the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, skate on the famous ice rink in Central Park, and take a light tour of the most beautifully and extravagantly decorated houses.
And while you’re there, stay for New Year’s Eve and count down the last seconds of the year on Times Square with thousands of others. How iconic is that?
Prague, Czech Republic
With the stunning Gothic architecture as a backdrop, you can explore the many Christmas markets the city offers. The market at Wenceslas Square in the old town is especially recommended. Warm yourself with a glass of svařák, the Czech version of mulled wine, or sip hot chocolate at the historic Café Slavia, which has existed since 1881.
Salzburg, Austria
A music lover’s dream: the Christkindlmarkt is dominated by music. Traditional brass bands and singalongs have been part of the market since the 15th century and are just as important as the market stalls themselves.
Cologne, Germany
Germans know how to organize a Christmas market, and Cologne is no exception. Each year, this city attracts around four million visitors. The stalls are set up beneath the famous cathedral, adding an extra magical touch to the setting.
In short: in December, there’s no shortage of things to do. A city trip in the last month of the year guarantees coziness, festivities, and unforgettable experiences!
