we are planning a trip to europe in december wondering if anywhere nice in italy/france this time of year

I love the pre-Xmas atmosphere of the Dolomite resorts in Italy. Even better if you get some snow! There are Xmas markets in the main towns - Bolzano, Trento etc - which adds to the fun.

Steve

Paris is kind of gray and cold in december, but it's completely worth it not to be overrun with tourists. Christmas is much more laid-back than it is in the U.S., so it's really a nice change.

We were in London from the 5th to the 12th of December last year and had a wonderful time. It was cold but we were fortunate to have no rain until we were en route to the airport for our trip home.

Enjoyed the decorations and festive atmosphere. Harrod's toy department was jaw dropping! Loved our visit to Somerset House and watching the ice skaters in the courtyard. We returned to the National Gallery and enjoyed the lack of crowds. The same was true at the Victoria & Albert.

We like London very much and wouldn't hesitate to return in December in the future, particularly if the airfare is good!

Provence is lovely in December--lots of decorations for the holidays, festive foods, gourmet fairs.

We have done both London and Paris at christmas and they were both great.