My husband & I are planning a trip for about 2 weeks in December 2024, including christmas and new year holidays. We are new to European travel. What destinations/country would you recommend?
Thank you!
Posted by
Washington DC
28290 posts
How tolerant are you of wintery weather? What do you look forward to doing in Europe? What type of sights interest you? Are you interested in Christmas markets? Is cost an issue?
Posted by
OP
3 posts
We would prefer not to have to buy lots of winter clothing-we live in Atlanta, GA, USA. Our main intention is to see fun but low sites, we love art, history, architecture, charming and less crowded scenes, and would like to interact in a low key way with locals. We really want to relax in between fun exploration (we have intense jobs). We do love good food and drink. Budget is moderate for this trip, we plan to utilize public transportation and off-brand small scale lodging options like local inns.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
Posted by
San Diego, California
5681 posts
Many places in Europe are closed from Christmas Eve thru the day after Christmas. This includes public transportation and many restaurants. It's highly recommended to stay at lodging with a Xmas dinner, and make reservations early.
For NYE, Edinburg and Vienna are on my bucket list. The Vienna Xmas markets continue last Xmas. The museums are fabulous!
Safe travels!
Posted by
Atlanta, GA
208 posts
We like warmer weather, small crowds, and good food, so we often find ourselves in Lisbon, Nice, or Naples for the holidays. It's so fun!
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9029 posts
If you look at the globe, you'll see most of Europe is much further north than you are, so weather is not only colder, but the days are a lot shorter in winter.
Posted by
New York, NY
4072 posts
I’d recommend the Austrian Alps & Salzburg but you wrote above that since you’re from Georgia, you don’t want to pack winter clothes.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thank you for sharing!
What about Spain or Portugal? During the winter holiday season?
Posted by
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
20592 posts
Budapest
Yes, cooler than Atlanta but same winter clothes you wear in Atlanta will work fine.
Very moderate cost; one of the best deals in Europe.
Excellent architecture. One of Europe's most beautiful cities.
Very accessible culture and people
Very laid back
Great Christmas Markets, concerts, theater
Stunning evening lights
Posted by
Schwerin
3131 posts
Lisbon or Sevilla if you do not like it cold - or both: they are not far away from each other.
If you can live with a little bit colder Berlin sounds like a good match to your interests; also with some Christmas Markets and some celebrations around New Year. For cheap winter clothing enough second-hand shops are available.