European vacations in December tend to evoke images of romantic holiday celebrations and a lot of fun in the sun. Many would be surprised to know that it sometimes snows on the Greek Islands in winter and the weather in general can be unpredictable. In the smaller towns and coastal regions of Europe, hotels and restaurants close up for the winter, but you can still have a fantastic time skiing in the Italian alps, ice skating, or enjoying indoor attractions and holiday shopping.
The climate in the different countries of Europe can vary dramatically in December. It is perhaps best compared to the climate of the northeastern or Midwest areas of the United States. In tsouthern countries such as Greece and Spain the weather is likely to be rainy and mild, while the northern countries experience cooler temperatures and significant snowfall. The temperature in Rome in December averages around 47 degrees F, but it's sure to be even colder in Berlin, where the temperatures will be in the low 30s F.
According to Reids travel guide, there are five rules you should always follow when packing your travel clothes: nothing white, nothing that wrinkles, clothes you can layer, lots of pockets, and less is better. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and plan on doing a little laundry in your room. Europeans tend to dress a little more polished than we do in the United States, so save the sweatpants for your hotel room. Take two pairs of slacks, or for ladies, one long skirt, two long-sleeved shirts and a warm sweater or shawl. Keep toiletries to a minimum; you can buy whatever you need when you get there.
From the Festival of Lights in France to the Christmas Markets in cities like Prague, Vienna and Nuremberg, Europe is bustling in December. Holiday shoppers will find Rome is full of hundreds of little shops where you can purchase all kinds of goodies and souvenirs. The Winter Festival in Moscow is a traditional cultural event that offers food, music, sleigh rides and games to please visitors of all ages. Those who are interested in a more formal affair may choose to attend the New Year's Eve Ball at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Austria.
The Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, is constructed from snow and ice each year between December and April, when it begins to melt. More than a hotel, it is a breathtaking work of art inspired by the clear, crystalline waters of the River Torne and the cold Arctic climate. No matter what it is like outside, the temperature inside the hotel stays between minus 5 degrees and minus 8 degrees Celsius (23 to 17 degrees Farenheit). Plan a visit to the hotel even if you don't intend to stay the night because it also offers daily tours and other activities including snowmobiling, skiing, and ice-sculpting demonstrations. Book a night in the Art Suite or Ice Room to gain an in-depth look at the extreme building process, with huge machines hauling ice blocks weighing two tons. If you love cold weather, sleep in a thermal sleeping bag on a bed of ice for a truly memorable European vacation experience.
