Yahoo Lifestyle The 11 Best Places To Visit in December, According to Getaway Guru Helene Sula
If you’re looking to travel in December, then you’re not alone. According to Tripadvisor's 2024 Winter Travel Index, more than half of Americans (57%) are planning to travel this winter. Whether you’re interested in checking a new country off of your bucket list, visit an adorable "Christmas town," or simply want to go on a getaway to see the popular holiday markets across Europe, there are so many places to visit.
To help narrow down your list, we spoke with Helene Sula, travel expert (with over 750k Instagram followers) and author of Two O’Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain, about the best places to travel in December and here’s what she told Parade.
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11 Best Places To Visit in December, According to Getaway Guru Helene Sula
1. Cologne, Germany
If Europe is on your list of places to travel in December, Sula highly recommends booking a plane ticket to Cologne, Germany—especially if you’re interested in experiencing holiday festivities.
”I’ve been to over 100 Christmas markets in Europe and this is my favorite,” Sula tells Parade. “The Christmas markets here are like stepping into a festive fairytale with the stunning Cologne Cathedral as the backdrop. With seven incredible and unique markets throughout the city, you just can't go wrong.”
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2. Black Forest, Germany
While we’re on the topic of Germany, Sula highly suggests planning a trip to Black Forest during the winter.
“Imagine a thick blanket of snow over fairy-tale villages—perfect for winter hiking or cozying up in a mountain chalet,” she says. “Plus, the Black Forest cake here is the real deal.”
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3. Heidelberg, Germany
One more place in Germany that Sula recommends visiting in December is Heidelberg.
"This city is a romantic hidden gem with its illuminated castle and historic bridge," she says. "The Christmas market here is intimate, offering unique crafts and the charming backdrop of this university town."
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4. Brussels, Belgium
Another standout place that Sula recommends visiting in December is Brussels.
"It's truly an underrated gem during the holidays," she tells Parade. "The Winter Wonders event transforms the city with its dazzling lights, festive market stalls, and an ice-skating rink that feels straight out of a Christmas card. It also has some of the best food I've had at a Christmas market... and I've been to over 100!"
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5. London, England
Sula says you can't go wrong with a trip to the UK in December. "From the spectacular lights on Regent Street to the charming Christmas markets along the Thames, London embodies holiday spirit," she says.
Additionally, she highly recommends seeing a Christmas show or pantomime during your visit aside from visiting the Big Ben, Kensington Palace, and other popular tourist destinations.
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6. Tallinn, Estonia
According to Sula, when you visit the small but mighty capital of Estonia, you'll feel like you've walked into a snow globe.
"The medieval old town, dusted with snow, offers one of the most picturesque Christmas markets, complete with handcrafted gifts and warming mulled wine," she explains.
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7. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria is another travel destination that Sula recommends visiting in December.
"Vienna has an air of elegance that's on another level with its classical music concerts and imperial architecture illuminated by festive lights," she explains.
While you're in town, Sula suggests sipping on some Weihnachtspunsch and enjoying the opulent decorations. If you have the time, you'll also want to try to see a traditional opera and visit the Rathaus Christmas market to get into the holiday spirit.
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8. Basel, Switzerland
Another place to travel in December is Basel, Switzerland, particularly if you're fond of Christmas markets.
"Nestled on the Rhine, Basel's Christmas market is cozy yet vibrant, known for its artisan crafts and Basel Läckerli (spiced biscuits)," Sula tells Parade. "The city's medieval charm shines with the Christmas spirit."
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9. Alsace Region, France
If you want to feel like you've stepped right into a Christmas movie, then you'll need to book a trip to the Alsace region of France.
"Strasbourg, the 'Capital of Christmas,' along with Colmar and the medieval vibes of Ribeauvillé's market, are absolute must-visits for their unique blend of French and German holiday traditions," Sula explains.
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10. Helsinki, Finland
You may have taken a trip to Finland to see the Northern Lights before, but if you haven't visited in December then you're missing out.
"Helsinki is where sauna culture meets Christmas magic," Sula says. "The city's market is filled with Finnish design goods, and the chance to relax in a steamy sauna after a cold day is unbeatable."
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11. Prague, Czech Republic
Last but not least, Sula highly recommends taking a trip to Prague in December.
"The city turns into a winter wonderland with its Christmas markets set against the backdrop of its stunning Gothic architecture," she tells Parade.
When it comes to finding the best places to travel in December, it's important to remember the world is your oyster. You can truly find both affordable and tourist-friendly travel destinations across the globe to celebrate the holidays whether you're flying solo or with friends and family.
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