Episode 76 – Europe in December: Route, Highlights and Winter Travel Tips
In episode 76 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug draw on their experience to share what it is really like to travel through Europe in December. They recount their three-week adventure through Berlin, Stockholm, Helsinki, Krakow and Budapest, highlighting festive Christmas markets, an overnight ferry crossing, snowy capitals, fascinating museums and the unique nightlife of Budapest’s famous ruin bars.
Tracy and Doug offer candid insights into the joys and challenges of winter travel across Europe. They talk about packing smart for cold conditions, using trains, planes and ferries to move between cities, and making the most of seasonal traditions and local food. They also reflect on what went smoothly, what they would do differently next time, and the practical lessons they picked up along the way.
Packed with planning tips, cultural discoveries and plenty of inspiration, this episode is designed to help you prepare for your own European winter adventure.
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Episode 76 – What you’ll learn in this episode
- 📍 How to navigate Europe’s cities in winter, including tips for maximising transport connections and staying comfortable in the cold
- 📅 Strategic itinerary planning—balancing must-see destinations, the realities of travel time, and avoiding overpacking your schedule
- 🚄 The ins and outs of transportation: choosing between trains, planes, and ferries, as well as booking logistics and luggage allowances
- 🛏️ Selecting the right accommodation: importance of proximity to public transport and meal planning for festive closures
- 🥢 Finding the best dining experiences, from Christmas market treats and food tours to local specialities in each country
- 😲 Managing unexpected challenges: adapting to closures, limited daylight, last-minute changes, and making delightful surprise discoveries along the way
Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Berlin: Renowned for its magical Christmas markets, immersive food tours, and vibrant city scene during the festive season.
- Stockholm: A winter wonderland with historic museums like Skansen and festive local events.
- Helsinki: Memorable for its snowy days and the novelty of arriving by overnight ferry from Stockholm.
- Krakow: Famous for its charming Christmas markets and as a base for poignant day trips to Auschwitz and Zakopane.
- Budapest: Highlights include spending Christmas, visiting the iconic Ruin bars, relaxing in thermal baths (and nearby spa experiences), and enjoying a scenic Danube boat ride.
- Amsterdam: Used as a connection point for train travel, with practical tips on luggage storage.
- Zakopane: Popular Polish mountain resort, ideal for a day trip to experience winter sports and outdoor spas.
- Edinburgh: Final stop for New Year celebrations.
Foods
- Cherry Kirsch Crepe with Nutella: A standout treat from Berlin’s Christmas markets, a warm crepe filled with cherries and chocolate.
- Pork Knuckle: A hearty, traditional meal enjoyed in Zakopane, especially popular with tourists.
- Elk: Home-cooked and tried in Stockholm, reflecting local Nordic cuisine.
- Street Food in Budapest: Flavoursome local bites sampled near the Ruin bars, recommended by Hungarian locals.
- Christmas Market Foods: Various festive delicacies sampled across Germany, Poland, and beyond, including bratwurst, mulled wine (grog), and traditional pastries.
Words/Concepts
- Eurostar: The high-speed train connecting London with mainland Europe, key for accessing continental cities.
- Overnight Ferry: Practical and surprisingly festive way to travel from Stockholm to Helsinki, with cruise-like amenities.
- Deutsche Bahn: German national rail service, used for planning and booking trains across Europe.
- Wise App: A multi-currency banking app invaluable for managing payments across different European currencies.
- Google Translate: Essential tool for decoding menus, signs, and supermarket labels in non-English-speaking countries.
- Hand Warmers & Thermal Layers: Essential winter items for staying comfortable in cold climates and enjoying outdoor attractions.
- Ruin Bars: Unique nightlife venues in Budapest, located in abandoned buildings and full of eclectic rooms and local flair.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for winter travel due to increased risk of slips and other accidents in snowy/icy conditions.
- Luggage Allowance: Tips on packing light and navigating strict airline/travel rules, especially when shifting between transport modes.
- Festive Season Planning: Advice on booking restaurants, accommodations, and tours early to avoid disappointments during Christmas closures.
Links
Podcasts
- Episode #45 – Germany Travel Guide: Expert Tips for first-time visitors
- Episode #54 Top 10 Tips for UK and Europe Train Travel in 2025 and Beyond
- Episode #57 – 15 Essential Europe Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Articles
- 12 Essential Sweden Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- 12 Essential Poland Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- 12 Essential Finland Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- The Ultimate Trip Planner: How to Plan a Trip Anywhere in the World (Step-by-Step Guide)
- London Travel Planning – Complete Packing List for London in Winter
