Hello, travelers! Where should you go in December for a weekend getaway to enjoy a change of scenery? From the magical Christmas markets in Alsace to the illuminated streets of Brittany and the scenic landscapes of the Italian Riviera, treat yourself to a getaway that captures the spirit of the holiday season.
Where should you go in December to experience the magic of Christmas?
Strasbourg and Colmar: Immerse Yourself in a Christmas Fairy Tale
To immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas, head to Strasbourg, Colmar, or Quimper! Illuminated chalets, the scent of gingerbread, and decorated storefronts: each city has its own way of making December shine. If you’re planning a trip in December for the holiday season, these cities offer wonderful opportunities to spend quality time together.
Want a Christmas straight out of a fairy tale? In Alsace, the historic centers are decked out in their festive finery. In Strasbourg, the Christmas market invites you to stroll among the chalets and illuminated squares. In Colmar, let yourself be charmed by the colorful facades and ancient alleyways, so pretty under the December decorations.
Step inside the little chalets, chat with the artisans, and treat yourself to some gingerbread or a few Advent cookies. The simplest pleasures are sometimes the ones we remember best! From a campground in northern France, the idea of a vacation centered around winter traditions can also inspire your choice of destination—as long as you check the seasonal opening dates.
As you wander the streets, part of the fun is stopping to admire the decorated storefronts and savoring the festive atmosphere at your own pace.
Quimper: The Magic of a Breton Christmas
Why not head to Brittany? In Quimper, the historic center is decked out in Christmas decorations. At Place Terre-au-Duc, stroll among the chalets and let the delicious scent of crêpes guide you. Here’s another way to experience the magic of December, with a Breton twist!
Dreaming of extending your trip along the west coast? A camping trip in Brittany could also be the perfect getaway. Just be sure to check the dates for events and which accommodations are open in December.
5 Things to Do at Christmas Markets in December
Traditions You Won't Want to Miss
Christmas markets are about more than just their decorations. They offer a chance to discover regional traditions, handmade crafts, and specialties that we love to share with our families.
· Admire the lights: stroll through the decorated streets and squares as night falls.
· Meet the artisans: Take the time to look at the creations and products on display in the market stalls.
· Listen to Alsatian legends: learn about Christkindel, Hans Trapp, and Saint Nicholas—figures associated with local traditions.
· Admire the giant Christmas tree: enjoy this symbol of the holidays, especially in the squares where it’s set up.
· Sample Advent specialties: Bredele, manneles, and gingerbread make for a delightful accompaniment to your stroll.
To extend the festive spirit once you’re back home, an evening of Christmas movies is another way to enjoy this time of year.
The Riviera dei Fiori: A Christmas with a Mediterranean Flavor
The Ligurian coast, in northwestern Italy, offers a different kind of getaway in December: enjoy Mediterranean landscapes and coastal villages in a festive holiday atmosphere. Here, the charm of the holidays blends with that of the harbors, colorful facades, and seaside promenades.
Want to swap winter landscapes for the Mediterranean? On the Riviera dei Fiori, Christmas decorations line the coastal promenades. Around San Remo, take the time to explore the coast and admire the holiday lights, with the sea as a backdrop.
A camping trip in Italy could be a great way to plan this kind of getaway—just be sure to check which campsites are actually open to guests in December. The itinerary can then be built around walks, scenic views, and culinary stops, rather than swimming.
The Cinque Terre: A Getaway Amid Colorful Villages and the Sea
Want to escape to charming Italian villages? Head to the Cinque Terre, in the province of La Spezia! Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are nestled between the hills and the Mediterranean Sea. Their colorful houses give the coastline a postcard-perfect look, even in winter.
During your getaway, stroll through the narrow streets, admire the panoramic views, and treat yourself to a delicious pasta dish. Depending on the weather, some routes can be traveled by train and on foot; check the connections and trail access before you go.
Far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, these villages invite you to experience a different side of Italy in December.
Family Vacations in December: How to Choose Your Trip?
Christmas Markets and Delicacies: Fun for Young and Old Alike
To plan a family vacation in December, start by choosing the experience you’d like to share: Christmas markets, culinary discoveries, city strolls, or mountain scenery. The holiday season is perfect for both a short weekend getaway and a longer stay.
Do the kids’ eyes light up at the sight of the holiday lights? Strasbourg, Colmar, and Quimper are lovely destinations to soak up the festive atmosphere. Alternate between strolls, sightseeing, and culinary breaks—there’s no need to try to see everything in a single day: in December, the days fly by!
How about heading up to the mountains for your vacation?
Do you prefer vast landscapes to bustling streets? A campground in the mountains or in the Alps might give you some ideas for your vacation. Before packing your bags, check which campgrounds are open to guests in December and what activities are available during your stay. A campground in the Vosges can also inspire a getaway into the heart of the mountain scenery—just be sure to check the campgrounds’ operating hours.
Our Tips for Planning Your December Getaway
Things to Do Before You Go
In December, a few quick checks can help ensure you enjoy your trip with greater peace of mind. The dates of Christmas markets and events vary by city and year; schedules, transportation, and weather conditions can also affect your plans.
· Check the dates of the Christmas markets and events that interest you.
· Plan a realistic itinerary to maximize your time at each destination, especially during a short trip.
· Check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing for winter walks.
· Confirm the operating hours of accommodations, restaurants, activities, and transportation during the holiday season.
Whether you choose Alsatian chalets, the streets of Quimper, or the Italian coast, the best part is often leaving room for unexpected discoveries.
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About the Author
Gwénaëlle
Brand Content Manager at Sunêlia • Destination Explorer
Passionate about travel and always eager to discover new places, Gwénaëlle explores Sunêlia’s destinations to find the experiences that make every stay unique. From must-visit spots and getaways to family activities and local treasures, she shares her tips and inspiration to help you plan a vacation full of discoveries and memories.
FAQ: Where to Go in December?
Strasbourg and Colmar, in Alsace, are among the must-see destinations for exploring Christmas markets. Their historic centers feature market stalls, holiday lights, and Advent specialties such as bredele and gingerbread. For a different atmosphere, head to Quimper, in Brittany, where Christmas decorations and festivities add to the charm of strolls through the narrow streets of the city center.
Want to see the sea even in winter? The Ligurian coast, in northwestern Italy, is perfect for a getaway in December. Around San Remo, enjoy walks along the coast and explore the villages of the Riviera dei Fiori. Further east, the Cinque Terre is also worth a visit, with its colorful houses and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. During this time of year, focus on sightseeing and walks, keeping the weather and trail access in mind.
For a weekend in December, it’s best to choose a city where you can enjoy the main attractions without spending too much time traveling. Strasbourg and Colmar are ideal for experiencing Alsatian traditions and Christmas markets. In Brittany, Quimper lets you combine strolls through the historic center with a festive atmosphere. If you prefer the seaside, San Remo offers a pleasant setting for exploring the Italian Riviera.
The Christmas markets in Strasbourg, Colmar, and Quimper are great ideas for a getaway with kids. Between the lights, the market stalls, and the treats, there’s no shortage of opportunities to spend time together as a family. If you prefer outdoor vacations, the Vosges and the Alps also offer the chance to enjoy mountain scenery. Before booking, find out which activities are suitable for children and which accommodations are open during the winter.
In December, a few simple checks are all it takes to avoid unpleasant surprises. Start by checking the dates and hours of the Christmas markets, which vary by city and year. Also, be sure to confirm that your lodging is open, especially if you’re planning a camping trip. For trips to the mountains, check the weather forecast and access conditions for activities. Finally, pack warm and waterproof clothing so you can enjoy your visits even when the weather turns chilly.