Warm Weather in Europe in December (No Islands, No Cars): The Best Destinations Beyond the Obvious

If you’re like me—desperate for sunshine in December, but without the option to rent a car—planning a European winter escape can feel like threading a needle. The default recommendations tend to include the Canary Islands or Sicily, but for various reasons, those just might not work. And while sunbathing on a beach might sound appealing in theory, in practice I need more than that—historic cities, walkable neighborhoods, rich architecture, and somewhere that still feels alive and inspiring in winter.

Last Christmas, I went to Seville (with side trips to Granada, Cadiz, and Cordoba), and it was hands-down one of the best decisions I’ve made. The sun! The architecture! The tapas! I felt genuinely healthier and happier being somewhere warm and beautiful during the holidays. So now I’m on the hunt for something that can match or at least come close—and I’m sharing my top picks for warm(ish), non-island, car-free friendly destinations in Europe this December.

What I’m Looking For:

• Not an island (Canaries, Malta, Mallorca are out)

• No need to rent a car – good public transport is a must

• Warm or at least mild winter weather (ideally 10–18°C)

• Historic sites, beautiful architecture, or rich culture (not just beach towns)

• Walkable and active-friendly

1. Rome, Italy

Average December highs: 12–15°C
Why it works:
Rome checks a lot of boxes. While Northern Italy can be chilly and snowy, the Eternal City stays relatively mild and is absolutely packed with ancient history, grand architecture, and enough charming piazzas and museums to fill every day of your trip. Plus, Christmas in Rome is stunning—lights, nativity scenes, and festive energy without the tourist overload of summer.

Getting around: Excellent public transport (bus/metro/tram) and walkable neighborhoods.

2. Naples & the Amalfi Coast (with caution)

Average December highs: 10–14°C
Why it works:
I studied in Naples during winter, and though you might get some rain, the temperatures are tolerable and the city is a feast for the senses—chaotic, historic, and alive. You can explore Pompeii, take a ferry to Procida or Ischia (if you’re flexible), and dive into authentic Neapolitan food. Amalfi Coast towns like Sorrento or Salerno are quieter in December but still accessible.

Caveat: It can rain, and transit can be a bit unpredictable—but if you’re flexible and don’t need a tight itinerary, it’s doable. Sometimes buses are even faster than trains!

3. Barcelona, Spain

Average December highs: 13–16°C
Why it works:
We almost went here last year instead of Seville, and it’s still very high on our list. You’ve got Gaudí architecture, Christmas markets, sea views, tapas bars, and lively neighborhoods that stay active year-round. Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but December is quieter, and the weather tends to be mild enough for comfortable sightseeing.

Getting around: Fantastic metro system and very walkable.

4. Valencia, Spain

Average December highs: 15–18°C
Why it works:
Less touristy than Barcelona, but with plenty of charm. You get the historic old town, futuristic architecture at the City of Arts and Sciences, and even a beach if you feel like a long walk. Valencia is spacious, elegant, and very sunny in winter.

Getting around: Excellent public transport and cycling paths.

5. Palermo, Sicily

Average December highs: 15–17°C
Why it works (if you reconsider islands):
Palermo is more than just a beach town—it’s a chaotic, fascinating city with layers of history, incredible street food, and some of the most unique architecture in Italy. Public transit isn’t perfect, but if you’re mostly staying within the city and taking the occasional train or bus to nearby Monreale or Cefalù, it works fine. Sicily in December is cooler than summer but still warmer than most of Europe.

Getting around: Trains and buses work well if you’re patient and flexible.

6. Ligurian Coast (Genoa & Cinque Terre)

Average December highs: 11–14°C
Why it works:
Though not hot, this stretch of the Italian Riviera is surprisingly mild in winter. Genoa has a gritty charm, while the Cinque Terre villages are calm and uncrowded (unlike in summer). It’s not beach weather, but for active travelers who love hiking, history, and sea views without crowds, it’s a gem.

Getting around: Regional trains connect all the Cinque Terre towns and Genoa easily.

Places I’m Skipping (and Why):

• Lisbon/Madrid: Already visited—amazing cities, but not repeating this year.

• Crete/Mallorca/Malta: Tend to be beach-focused, and I crave more cultural activity and architectural interest.

• Milan: Too far north—cold and possibly snowy.

• Puglia: May feel too quiet or touristy in December.

Final Thoughts:

While you might not get tropical heat anywhere in mainland Europe in December, there are cities where the sun shines, coats stay light, and history surrounds you. For me, destinations like Rome, Valencia, and Naples strike the perfect balance: warmish weather, walkable streets, good food, and plenty to explore—all without needing a car or hopping back to the same islands everyone suggests.

If you’re sun-starved like I am and want a mix of culture and comfort in winter, these spots are worth adding to your list.

What’s Your Favorite Winter Sun Destination in Europe?
Let me know in the comments—especially if you’ve found somewhere warm, walkable, and full of charm that doesn’t require a car!