Last updated on November 2nd, 2026 at 10:30 pm
Searching for warm places in December in Europe? Escaping the chilly UK for sunshine, blue skies and a little culture is easier than you might think! From charming Spanish squares and the golden beaches of the Canary Islands to luxurious five-star retreats in Portugal, there are plenty of beautiful destinations just a short flight away!
You really don’t have to travel to far-flung places across the world to take a wonderful break right before the festivities start, I love this time of year and really enjoy travelling to the warmest places in Europe in December, often mixing it up with relaxing islands, beaches and vibrant city breaks staying in wonderful hotels, my current favourite being, Marbella Beach Hotel on the dazzling Golden Mile!
You’ll be surprised by how many hot European countries in December there are and the best thing is, a few days or a week away is often more affordable and less crowded, so you can splurge on that gorgeous luxury boutique hotel and be the envy of everyone back home! Here’s my guide to the warmest places in December in Europe!
My Favourite Warm Places In Europe In December!
Planning a quick December escape? Here are my three favourite warm places in December in Europe, paired with beautiful hotels for a stylish winter getaway!
- Marbella: For five-star beachfront luxury, timeless favourite Marbella Club Hotel
- Tenerife: warm winter sunshine & tropical surroundings Jardin Tropical Resort
- Madeira: breathtaking island escape & iconic ocean view stays Reid’s Palace
Spain, the warmest European country in December!
Where are the warmest European countries in December?
The warmest European countries in December are Spain, Malta and Portugal, especially the south coast of Spain such as Marbella which often feels like summer, and the Canary Islands, where daytime temperatures typically reach around 20–23°C – one of the very best places to travel in Europe in December for winter sun holidays!
I’ve personally experienced plenty of sunbathing days across the Costa del Sol in particular where you have excellent options for winter city breaks in Malaga or relaxed beach holidays on the Golden Mile with mild temperatures of around 16–18°C- Spain is the warmest European country in December with some of the most beautiful boutique and luxury hotels!
TOP 18 WARMEST PLACES IN DECEMBER IN EUROPE
If you’re ready to shed those winter layers for a dose of vitamin D this festive season, these are the best and warmest places in December in Europe that I highly recommend from city breaks to islands and beaches, here’s where I’d visit for warm weather, beautiful scenery and stunning hotels!
1. MARBELLA, SPAIN
Temperature: High 22°C / Low 11°C
Marbella is one of the best and warmest places in December in Europe, with long sunny days, perfect blue skies and temperatures averaging 21°C, which feels hot enough for your summer wardrobe – it’s also one of the most alive with vibey beach bars, seaview restaurants and flowers still blooming like springtime, its the reason I visit every winter!
December is lovely for walking the Golden Mile shoreline, taking boat excursions and afternoon aperitifs along the beautiful beach bars and smaller boho-luxury beach clubs, my favourite spot and place to stay is is Marbella Beach Club with it’s pretty pink pastels (you could be in Palm Springs!).
And moreover, the white washed towns of Puerto Banus and Marbella Town are even more charming at Christmas, from the 6th, Marbella famous orange square is transformed with festive lights and fancy decoration! While for New Years, I recommend booking a table at your favourite restaurant or terrace ahead, Marbella is a fantastic and lively place to celebrate!
Where I’d Stay In Marbella
Stay along the beautiful Golden Mile, my top pick is Marbella Club Hotel unbeatable for boho-lux style and sophistication, where I enjoyed some beautiful Spanish sunshine, the warmest European country in December! Ideal for a relaxing and luxurious winter escape and also one of the best places to visit in February!
2. MALAGA, SPAIN
Temperature: High 21°C / Low 10°C
Malaga, warmest city in Europe in December!
Malaga is one of the best European cities to visit in December, offering a blend of culture, attractive traditional Spanish architecture a beachfront and a fabulous restaurant scene, it’s situated in the Costa del Sol, a lovely warm place in Europe in December and is particularly vibrant throughout this month!
I’ve visited Malaga many times across winter, I love the atmosphere, from designer shopping and visiting the cities highlights in the daytime such as the 11th-century Alcazaba fortress palace to walking the charming old town lanes and admiring Picassos art work and in the evenings simply relaxing among the beautiful squares or cool rooftops with a cocktail and live music making Malaga one of the top warm places to go in December!
The restaurants are really impressive in Malaga and most are situated around the cathedral for the perfect lunch or dinnertime view in the middle of the historical area and Calle Larios Lane, which also happens to be the prettiest street in Malaga. Every Saturday from 8pm in December there is a huge festive light display and a lively spirit not to be missed!
Where I’d Stay In Malaga
Hotel Well and Come is a gorgeous boutique hotel in the heart of Málaga, with stylish interiors, a lovely rooftop terrace and a relaxing spa complete with a heated indoor pool and sauna, a lovely choice in southern Spain, the warmest European country in December!
3. MADEIRA ISLAND, PORTUGAL
Temperature: High 21°C / Low 14°C
Top three most beautiful and warmest European countries in December!
Madeira is often called the “Hawaii of Europe” for its year-round sub-tropical climate and mountainous landscape, a striking combination of fantastic scenery, warm Portuguese culture and unusual beaches, which makes Madeira one of the best places to visit in Europe in December!
Funchal is a perfect spot to stay and explore the rest of the island, you can reach almost anywhere in one hour, including some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Europe, waterfalls and viewpoints like the incredible Ponte de São Lourenço, the Islands most breath-taking sight – well worth taking an afternoon’s excursion for!
While Funchal offers a vibrant wine and dine scene with cosy restaurants and hidden-gem rooftops, and as it’s one of the top warm places in December in Europe, you can dine alfresco and see the towns festive lights and colourful houses. There’s also a cable car taking you to viewpoint from the centre overlooking this whole scene – if you stay for New Years you’ll be treated to a magnificent fireworks display!
Where I’d Stay In Maderia
Reids Palace an iconic clifftop retreat overlooking the Atlantic, surrounded by lush subtropical gardens. I love the timeless elegance, beautiful ocean-view terraces and legendary afternoon tea – perfect for a romantic, luxurious December escape in Madeira!
4. TENERIFE, CANARY ISLANDS
Temperature: High 23°C / Low 16°C
Top three warm European Destinations in December!
Tenerife, is by far one of the most popular winter sun destinations and the warmest place in Europe in December, ideal sunbathing weather with daily temperatures hovering around a balmy 24 degrees, five days to a week will seem like a world away from the wintery UK!
The warmest part of the island is the south coast, and the two main areas to stay are Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje, which offer typical Spanish towns to wander, long sandy beaches and many options for where to stay including beachside resorts with spas, pools, terraces and seaview balconies that will feel like summer, but a lot more serene outside of the school holidays!
You can spend your time swimming in the sea and sunbathing around a pool – cocktail in hand, but you can also navigate your way around the rugged landscape and mountains, as well, renting a car and going on a road trip would be a wonderful idea! Tenerife is truly one of the best places to travel in Europe in December!
Where I’d Stay In Tenerife
Jardin Tropical Resort and Spa, is a gorgeous five-star resort in Costa Adeje, with lush tropical gardens, beautiful swimming pools and stunning Atlantic Ocean views, truly, if you’re looking for where is hot in December Europe, staying in South Tenerife is a top choice!
5. ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
Temperature: High 18°C / Low 9°C
Beautiful Octant Vila Monte, one of the warmest places in Europe in December!
Portugal’s popular Algarve is one of my favourite warm places in December in Europe, especially if you’re looking for a change of landscape as the Algarve is known for its long coastline, dramatic beaches and seaside towns that are wonderfully relaxed at this time of year, perfect for treating yourself to a beautiful finca-style retreat like Octant Vila Monte!
Situated in the most idyllic location among olive groves and close by Fuseta beach you can truly relax in the beautiful grounds of Octant Vila Monte, I love this white-washed property, the friendly atmosphere, incredible food and colourful style really encapsulates the spirit of Portugal and there is little reason to leave it, especially with the spa, tastings and movie nights, but there are a few gems just a short distance away!
December is the perfect month to drive along the coastline and explore east Algarve, especially more charming towns like cobbled Tavira or visit the nature reserve that’s one of the hidden gems of the area, while an hour’s drive in the other direction takes you to Lagos and cliff-edge hiking trails, no wonder the Algarve is a popular winter sun destination in Europe!
Where I’d Stay In The Algarve
Octant Vila Monte is a gorgeous five-star countryside retreat in the eastern Algarve, surrounded by beautiful gardens and orange groves. I’ve stayed here and loved its peaceful atmosphere, stylish aesthetics and heated swimming pools. It’s a wonderful quieter choice for a relaxing luxury escape in Portugal one of the warmest European countries in December!
6. LANZAROTE, CANARY ISLANDS
Temperature: High 22°C / Low 16°C
Cesar Luxury Boutique Hotel, Lanzarote, Spain – the warmest European country in December!
The Canary Islands are always a excellent choice for winter sun and Lanzarote is one of the absolute best hot places in December in Europe to escape to with its other worldly volcanic landscapes, white washed houses and dramatic beaches, it offers something very distinctive!
And not only is Lanzarote a perfect choice for a beach break with average highs of 21 degrees, in recent years luxury boutiques have peppered the islands most beautiful areas, Cesar Luxury Boutique Hotel is a prime example of the new designer-led retreats offering elegant amenities – a far cry from the brash resorts of the Canaries we are used to seeing!
But reserve a day or two to explore the stunning vistas and cycling or hiking your way around the striking black sand beaches, don’t miss a guided tour to Timanfaya National Park, it maybe one of the warmest places in December in Europe, but Lanzarote offers more than a ‘fly and flop’ holiday!
Where I’d Stay In Lanzarote
Cesar Luxury Boutique Hotel, is a gorgeous five-star boutique hotel surrounded by Lanzarote’s dramatic volcanic scenery. With just 20 beautifully designed rooms, a stunning infinity pool and peaceful gardens, this adults-only retreat is perfect for a romantic winter escape away from the busier beach resorts!
Dreaming of more winter sunshine? If you’re planning a little escape from the cold, don’t miss my guide to the 7 Best Winter Sun Destinations in Europe – featuring beautiful warm-weather escapes, gorgeous places to stay and plenty of inspiration for your next getaway!
7. VALLETTA, MALTA
Temperature: High 18°C / Low 12°C
Often overlooked, Malta is actually one of the warmest places in December in Europe, where the temperatures are pleasant and skies sunny enough for enjoying slow walks around Valletta or exploring the incredible Medieval Mdina with its wonderful maze of golden lanes in summer wear!
The heritage capital of Valletta is a wonderful location to base yourself over a long weekend, discovering the history and highlights such as, St John’s Cathedral – a Baroque masterpiece, as well as promenade walks, lunches by the waters edge and roof top terrace drinks at your very own boutique hotel, Casa Elull!
For nature and adventure lovers, there’s plenty to see in the sun-filled afternoons from the Upper Barrakka Gardens with panoramic views and boat trips to the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon – in December it’s much more peaceful and better for photo opportunities without the crowds!
Where I’d Stay In Valletta
Valletta is the most charming and convenient place to stay for first-time visitors, my top hotel pick is Casa Elull, a lovely central boutique hotel with character, warmth and rooftop within a wonderful location in Malta – one of my favourite warm countries in December!
8. CYPRUS
Temperature: High 20°C / Low 10°C
Cyprus is also one of the best places to travel in Europe in December, which may come as a surprise as it’s more often associated with summer holidays, but with all-year-round flights and mild winters, Cyprus makes a wonderful sunny and beachy winter escape, especially before the festivities really begin!
Travelling to Cyprus in December offers you the opportunity to explore the island on those days that are not quite sunbathing weather and see some wonderful attractions like the Tombs of the Kings, hike around Avakas Gorge and walk along the beachfronts without bumping into lots of tourist, it’s a truly serene experience!
A bonus of road-tripping in Cyprus is that they drive on the same side as the UK, which is perfect and the roads will not be congested like they can be in summer, and afterwards you can relax at your beautiful hotel overlooking the sea – I recommend it for luxury in one of the loveliest warm European destinations in December!
Where I’d Stay In Cyprus
The best place to stay in Cyprus is the luxurious Cap ST George Hotel & Resort for stunning sea view suites and beachfront location, ideal for couples looking for relaxation and pamper on the run up to Christmas, its one of the most luxurious warm places to visit in December!
9. SEVILLE, SPAIN
Temperature: High 20°C / Low 10°C
Beautiful Seville, one of the warmest places in Europe in December!
Seville is the capital of the Andalusia region, a picturesque city steeped in history with spectacular architecture and charming squares, wonderful for walking and exploring – in the warm Spanish sunshine as Seville is one of the warmest places in December in Europe and one of my favourite destinations in Spain!
Stroll around the pretty lanes, explore the tapas scene in between visiting magnificent sights like Seville Cathedral and Alcazar Palace, see a Flamenco show and enjoy one of the best rooftop bars in Seville over looking the lights and old town afterwards, making Seville one of the best places to visit in Europe in December!
Seville also celebrates Christmas with a series of events throughout the city centre and main shopping streets in December with Christmas concerts, street musicians, and parades and the cherry on top would be a lovely Seville boutique hotels in the charming old town!
Where I’d Stay In Seville
Casa del Poeta is a romantic boutique hotel tucked away in the charming Santa Cruz neighbourhood. Set within a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion, it has an enchanting Andalusian courtyard, intimate rooms and live Spanish guitar music in the evenings – it’s a gorgeous choice in one of the best warm countries in December!
10. SICILLY, ITALY
Temperature: High 16°C / Low 12°C
A gem in Southern Italy, Sicily is one of the best warm European destinations in December, when the temperatures are still mild and the atmosphere wonderful, especially if you stay in Palermo – the best place to visit at this time of year for a charming and warm city break!
The capital is rich in culture and history, with eight UNESCO sights in total and over 200 ancient churches – including beautiful Palermo Cathedral, a must see and Sicily’s charm extends to the cobbled streets and small towns that are made even more romantic in December with beautiful winter lights.
An alternative December city break for those looking for something a bit different with great food, wine and historical sights – you must also try the local Cannoli and tasty arancini and for exploring, charming Cefalu is only an hour away from Palermo City!
Where I’d Stay In Sicily
Vossia Luxury Rooms & Sicilian Living is housed within a charming historic building with beautifully decorated rooms, perfect for couples – this is where I’d stay in one of the most beautiful and warmest places in December in Europe!
11. MALLORCA, BALEARICS
Temperature: High 17°C / Low 11°C
Deia village, Mallorca, best places to travel in Europe in December!
Mallorca is a diverse island with many areas to explore, it simply basks in warm sunshine all-year-round, it might not be fully bikini weather but you will be able to go outside in just your t-shirt and enjoy those alfresco lunches, Spain after all is the warmest European country in December!
Beach clubs maybe closed, but its beautiful capital Palma, is always vibrant with restaurants, nightlife and culture and there are some incredible luxury boutique hotels to stay with that signature Mallorcan style such as my favourite Nobis Hotel Palma located in the most historic part of town!
If you hire a car or hop on the scenic train you can explore the gorgeous mountainous landscapes with their scenic windy roads and viewpoints, I especially love walking around the pretty traditional hilltop villages Valldemossa and Deia and sitting in the atmospheric squares under the lovely winter sun!
Where I’d Stay In Mallorca
For a chic stay, Nobis Hotel Palma, is a stunning five-star boutique hotel housed in a beautifully restored 12th-century palace. I’ve stayed here myself and loved its stylish interiors, historic character and peaceful location in the heart of Palma’s Old Town – it’s also one of the warmest places in Europe in January.
12. THE AZORES, PORTUGAL
Temperature: High 18°C / Low 10°C
The Azores is a unique and stunning location, an off-the-beaten-path destination to explore across December for those who are looking for a nature filled trip with beautiful weather a more peaceful ambience and lots of hiking trails to clear your mind!
A true natural beauty, the Azores are made up of tiny islands that are one of the warmest places in Europe in December, where temperatures regularly hover around 19°C, which will feel balmy compared to the UK weather at this time of year, especially when climbing the mountains or chasing those lush waterfalls!
One of the reasons to stay in the Azores is to really escape the bustle and there’s no place better than White Exclusive Suites and Villas, you probably wouldn’t want to leave this stunning location except for maybe a night or two in neighbouring Madeira – an excellent combination!
Where I’d Stay In The Azores
Stay at the White Exclusive suites, a gorgeous white-washed luxury boutique hotel with an infinity pool set within a stunning location on one of Europe’s most serene islands and warm places in Europe in December!
13. GRAN CANARIA, CANARY ISLANDS
Temperature: High 22°C / Low 16°C
Gran Canaria is one of the reliable hot places in Europe in December, with all-year-round sunbathing temperatures, were everything is vibrant and remains open throughout the season, for those looking for relaxation and pamper there’s plenty of gorgeous resort like Paradisus by Melia.
Driving along the winding coastal roads is the perfect way to reach some of the more scenic beaches and hiking spots on this island, passing by dramatic landscapes, which are well worth exploring at this time of year and the capital Palma is the warmest city in Europe in December!
If you’re just looking for a weeks stay with guaranteed great weather, Gran Canaria is the island to beat and with regular flights leaving the UK, it makes an effortless fly and flop trip in one of the warmest places in December in Europe!
Where I’d Stay In Gran Canaria
Paradisus by Meliais a gorgeous five-star luxury retreat on San Agustín beach, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, four pools and a spa – all just moments from the golden sand dunes – for a fly and flop holiday – Gran Canaria is one of the best places to travel to in Europe in December – and throughout the winter!
Looking for the warmest places in Europe in January? Here’s my guide to the best warmest European destinations in January, stylish escapes you’ll love!
14. BARCELONA, SPAIN
Temperature: High 15°C / Low 7°C
Barcelona is fantastic and one of the best European cities to visit in December when the days are warm, skies bright blue and the streets are not jam-packed with tourists and cruise ship day trippers – instead you’ll be wandering the beautiful lanes and taking in the wonderful Spanish architecture and atmosphere!
What I love most of all about visiting the warmest European country in December is that the cities and beach places always retain the Spanish vibrance and in Barcelona there’s festivities and the traditional market Fira de Santa Llúcia in front of the Gothic Cathedral, but the real reason I like to stay is for the atmospheric historic town!
It may not be the warmest place in Europe in December, but the narrow cobbled streets are utterly charming, especially when Spanish guitarists are performing and the city’s top attractions built by Gaudí, such as La Sagrada Familia see fewer queues!
Where I’d Stay In Barcelona
Miiro Borneta, is a gorgeous boutique hotel in the fashionable El Born neighbourhood, with stylish interiors, a rooftop terrace and a fantastic location for exploring the city. I stayed here over Christmas and loved the atmospheric old town, independent boutiques and wonderful restaurants, absolutely one of the best places to visit in Europe in December!
15. NICE, FRANCE
Temperature: High 14°C / Low 7°C
Nice, one of the best places to visit in Europe in December for a glam weekend!
Nice is one of the best warm European destinations in December for a lovely weekend city break that exudes glamour, beautiful restaurants, a vibrant seafront, I especially love the old town, which is magical in this festive month – full of twinkly lights and atmosphere!
The old town is where you’ll find the most charm this time of year, the colourful town houses and boutiques make it feel warm and cosy and there’s some lovely places to eat and drink, alongside traditional French markets for shopping, I always stay at hotel La Perouse Nice Baie des Angles with sweeping sea views!
Temperatures may not be quite sunbathing or beach weather, but its mild and pleasant for promenade strolls, you are also just a short distance from medieval villages and cute coastal towns and there’s a wonderful ambiance on the lead up to Christmas, which makes Nice one of the best places to visit in Europe in December!
Where I’d Stay In Nice
Hotel La Perouse Nice Baie des Angles, is a gorgeous four-star boutique hotel tucked into the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. With beautifully styled rooms, a rooftop terrace offering panoramic sea views and a charming restaurant beneath lemon trees, it’s a wonderful choice for a romantic escape!
16. FUERTEVENTURA, CANARY ISLANDS
Temperature: High 22°C / Low 14°C
Fuerteventura one of the warmest places in December in Europe!
If you’re looking for where is hot in December, Fuerteventura is perfect, spend your days relaxing by the pool under the shade of palm trees, visiting sand dunes and other-worldly beaches, dine alfresco or star gaze at night – it’s one of the most unique of all the Canary Islands, which I discovered in the week before Christmas of last year!
I stopped in the adult-only Zel Fuerteventura on the beautiful golden sands of Playa de Sotavento which goes on for miles and offers a relaxed atmosphere and excellent sunbathing weather for lounging by the infinity pool with a cocktail in hand and observing the stunning vista, but there’s more to this canary island for those who also like to explore!
Fuerteventura can be described as dry and desert-like with beautiful beaches, cacti, mountains, volcanic craters and some of the best sand dunes in the whole archipelago, jeep safari’s and walking tours give you a real feel for the island, one of the most underrated, but top warm European destinations in December!
Where I’d Stay In Fuerteventura
Zel Fuerteventura is a stylish, contemporary retreat with an infinity pool, relaxed Mediterranean-inspired interiors and beautiful ocean views. Perfect for couples looking to unwind in one of the quieter warm places in December in Europe!
17. LISBON, PORTUGAL
Temperature: High 15°C / Low 9°C
Lisbon is a cool city to visit at any time with its pastel buildings, tiles and terraces, there are many hidden gems to discover in the form of restaurants and historic boutique hotels and as one of the warmest places in Europe in December, it’s a fantastic month to spoil yourself!
From the crumbly Alfama district, the oldest area to the 11th-century São Jorge Castle viewpoint and luxury shopping along elegant Avenida da Liberdade, this Portugal city is diverse and will certainly keep you entertained over a long weekend – one of my favourite things is finding those hidden rooftop bars!
For spare days, Cascais, a pretty seaside town is only a short distance away as are the castles of enchanting Sintra, a must see and makes for a well rounded trip to Lisbon in December!
Where I’d Stay In Lisbon
Corpo Santo Lisbon is a beautiful five-star boutique-style hotel in the heart of Lisbon, just a short stroll from the waterfront and historic Chiado neighbourhood. I’ve stayed here myself and loved its welcoming atmosphere and elegant rooms, its one of the best places to visit in Europe in December!
18. MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
Temperature: High 20°C / Low 9°C
Marrakesh, one of the best places to visit in December for culture!
Okay, so Marrakesh isn’t technically Europe, but with direct flights from the UK taking around four hours, I couldn’t resist including it, Morocco is after all one of the best warm countries in December to visit! The colourful souks, beautiful boutique riads and sunny afternoons, make a wonderful alternative for anyone looking to escape the chilly British winter without travelling too far.
Marrakesh feels exotic with plenty of culture and life, it will be a shock to the system arriving here from the UK winter, but as one of the top warm destinations in December it’s absolutely worth considering an ideal for those looking to explore rather than sunbathe!
Stay in a chic Riad like Botanica for a memorable experience, visit the souks and gardens (don’t miss Le Jardin Secret) and take a day trip to the desert or Atlas Mountains to make the most of your stay, but don’t forget to pack layers for the evening, as the temperature drops as soon as the sun goes down!
Where I’d Stay In Marrakesh
Riad Botanica is a gorgeous luxury boutique riad tucked away in Marrakech’s historic Medina. With beautifully designed rooms, an enchanting courtyard pool and a rooftop terrace for soaking up the winter sunshine, a truly romantic oasis in bustling Marrakech, one of the best places to visit in December!
Tip! If you’re looking for the warmest places in Europe in December, I’d particularly recommend the Canary Islands for reliable winter sunshine or Marbella for a stylish coastal escape with beautiful boutique hotels.
WARM PLACES IN DECEMBER IN EUROPE – TIPS!
1. Pack for Mixed Weather
Whether I’m heading to Marbella for a long weekend or escaping to the Canary Islands, I love travelling with just a carry-on. My Level8 Voyageur is a stylish choice for keeping everything organised, particularly when packing for both warm days and cooler evenings. See my favourite carry-on luggage and packing tips for Europe here!
2. Book Accommodation Early
Popular winter-sun destinations like Marbella, the Algarve and the Canary Islands fill up closer to Christmas Day and New Years especially. I recommend booking a weeks in advance to secure the best rooms – and views! (the warmest places in Europe in December are popular!)
3. Dine Al Fresco (When You Can!)
Outdoor dining in sunny coastal towns like Marbella and Palma is one of my favourite pastimes, and nothing beats a glass of wine on a beautiful day in atmospheric Spanish squares or along beachfront terraces – leave some gaps for long lazy lunches when planning your itinerary!
4. Embrace the Off-Season Pace
The best things about visiting hot European countries in December other than the weather, is the slower, more relaxed atmosphere. Without the louder summer crowds, you can expect shorter queues, prettier photos, children-free pools and better restaurant availability!
5. Add Nearby Day Trips
December is fantastic for exploring, when it’s not too hot or busy, many destinations are near mountains, sand dunes, heritage locations and other interesting places from hiking in Mallorca or Tenerife to visiting smaller charming towns in Spain and Portugal – it pays to plan a little ahead!
6. Enjoy Lower Prices
Flights in December are low, you can secure seats for as little as €35 for Malaga and Fuerteventura, while hotels and apartments offer reasonable winter rates, especially for week long stays – in any of the warm European destinations in December!
7. My Essential Europe Travel Toolkit!
Before you begin your European winter trip, I recommend downloading a few apps and booking with trusted travel resources to help make your visit more seamless!
- Europe eSim: Install an easy and cheap eSim to get data on the go – without changing your card! Use code; LITTLEWANDER for 5% off!
- Booking.com: The best hotel and apartment booking app for Europe, great rates, advance booking and fully-refundable options!
- Get Your Guide: Reserve day trips securely in Europe with Get Your Guide from boat excursions to hidden gems!
- Omio: Book the ferry, coach or train on Omio for easy and inexpensive travel in Europe!
- Discover Cars: My go-to for reliable car hire across Europe!
- Welcome Pick-ups: Quick and easy door-to-door secure transfer service – anywhere!
Marbella Old Town one of the warmest places in Europe in December
WARMEST PLACES IN EUROPE IN DECEMBER – FAQ
What is the warmest country in Europe in December?
The warmest country in Europe in December is Spain, especially southern Spain and the Canary Islands, where temperatures hover around 22°C.
(Besides Spain, other warm countries in December include Cyprus, Malta, and Portugal – you can expect warm and sunny days throughout the month!)
What is the warmest place in Europe in December?
The warmest place in Europe in December is Tenerife, with daytime temperatures often reaching 20–23°C, there’s plenty of opportunities for outdoor lunches, sunbathing and swimming, it stays consistently warm and sunny throughout winter, from the UK it feels like summertime!
What is the warmest place in EU in December?
The warmest place in the EU in December is Spain, in particular Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Marbella, for reliable warm weather, alfresco dining, beach days and plenty of lovely sunshine!
Where is hot in December Europe?
If you’re looking for hot European countries in December, Spain and Portugal are the best for hotter sunbathing weather and relaxation, which includes the Canary islands, the Algarve, Madeira and Marbella, these are the only true hot places in December in Europe and from the UK it will absolutely feel like you’ve arrived in summer – one of my favourite winter sun escapes!
What to pack for a winter-sun trip to Europe in December?
For the daytime in each of these destinations in December, you’ll be fine with short sleeves, cotton and linen tops and bottoms, but pack a few jumpers, jackets and shawls for the cooler evenings.
Where’s the warmest places in Europe in December for beach holidays?
The warmest paces in Europe in December for beach holidays is the Costa del Sol and the Canary Islands, especially Tenerife, which is the hottest place in December in Europe, ideal for those seeking a long promenade, dreamy beach restaurants, beautiful hotels and golden sand beaches!
What are the best destinations for Christmas in Europe?
For winter sun in Europe at Christmas, Malaga is one of the most festive with daily light shows in the historic centre, while Madeira offers displays in Funchal and boasts impressive New Years fireworks, but the best destinations for Christmas in Europe for warm weather are the Canary Islands!
What are the best European cities to visit in December?
The best European cities to visit in December include Malaga in Spain, Valetta in Malta and Funchal in Madeira, perfect for warm weather, exploring, culture, dining alfresco and staying in beautiful hotels, but the very warmest city in Europe in December is Las Palmas in Gran Canaria!
Warm Places In December In Europe – Final Thoughts
The warmest places in December in Europe really vary from sun-kissed islands to charming coastal cities, there are so many opportunities for a beautiful escape or festive one… depending on your taste!
Whether you’re dreaming of beautiful beaches and lush resorts with pools to lounge, festive plazas under blue skies, or cosy boutique stay in the heart of a lovely heritage town, you’ll find a spot to enjoy in December for your European winter vacation, it’s so worth it!
If you’re planning to spend time in Spain, the warmest European country in December, don’t miss my travel guides to Marbella, the best place in Europe in December in my opinion, Seville and Malaga for even more winter-sun inspiration!
Wherever you choose, I hope this guide helped you find the perfect warm European destinations in December for your style and budget!
Plan your December winter sun in Europe escape!
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- A Guide To The Best Boutique Hotels in Seville
- The Best Things To See & Do In Malaga
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- 7 Chic European Winter-Sun Destination!
- Warmest Places In Europe In January: 11 Stylish Spots!
- 9 Best Destinations To Visit In February: Dreamy Beach Escapes!
- Carry-on Only Packing Guide For Europe!
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The 18 Warmest Places In December In Europe | Pin For Later
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Michelle Trudie, is the founder of Little Wanderblog, a luxury boutique travel site. She has travelled to over 30 countries in the last 15 years. Michelle share’s her passion for stylish and affordable luxury travel experiences in Europe and beyond! Her goal is to make travel planning easier to hidden gem places!