December attracts Christmas and New Year travelers looking to spend the holidays in Norway’s festive villages and cities—or perhaps the snowy north, where you can search for the Northern Lights, hit the slopes, or take a reindeer safari. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.
## Norway in December: A Winter Wonderland Awaits
Winter’s embrace has settled upon Norway, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking spectacle and infusing the air with a joyous holiday spirit. December stands as one of the coolest months, a time when the country truly embraces its winter identity. Average temperatures generally fluctuate between 20 and 30° F, creating a crisp and invigorating atmosphere. The shorter daylight hours further accentuate the wintry ambiance. In Oslo, for instance, the sun graces the sky for approximately 5 to 6 hours each day. Venture further north to Tromsø, and you’ll encounter a different experience altogether. Here, the depths of winter mean perpetual twilight. The sun remains below the horizon throughout December, a phenomenon known as Polar Nights, resulting in no sunrise or sunset for the entire month. However, this period of darkness doesn’t deter the Norwegian people from their active lifestyles. Embracing their deep-rooted connection to nature, they prioritize outdoor exercise, demonstrating their resilience and love for their surroundings.
Along Norway’s coastline, the warm currents of the Gulf Stream have a moderating effect, creating a milder climate compared to inland areas located at similar latitudes. While temperatures here are generally less severe than those experienced in central and northern Norway, snow is still a common sight. The nearby mountains are often blanketed in white, and if fortune smiles, even the picturesque city of Bergen, captured in the image above, might receive a dusting of snow. When uncertain about the weather, it’s best to follow the lead of the locals: dress in layers of warm clothing, ensure you have waterproof outerwear, and be prepared for rain that can swiftly transform into snow.
The early part of December presents an ideal opportunity to explore both the vibrant cities and the stunning natural landscapes of Norway with fewer crowds. You can meander without the stress of fighting the masses, experiencing a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere. However, as the days draw closer to Christmas, Norway undergoes a transformation, becoming a bustling hub of activity. Prices for accommodations and flights typically rise significantly, and advance reservations are strongly recommended to secure your desired bookings. By this time, most winter activities are in full swing across the country, offering a plethora of options to choose from. If your preferred lodging is fully booked, consider alternative and unique lodging options.
There is truly no place in Norway that should be excluded from your December itinerary. The Norwegians, known for their laid-back attitude and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, are adept at making the most of the winter season. Oslo serves as an excellent starting point for your Norwegian adventure. Explore its modern opera house, discover its trendy neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at pop-up markets and lively street caroling performances. Other cities renowned for their winter culture include Trondheim, Bergen, and Ålesund, a city on the west coast celebrated for its art nouveau architecture and convenient access to the fjords.
For those seeking a truly enchanting holiday atmosphere, the UNESCO-listed village of Røros is an absolute must-visit. Its streets are lined with beautifully preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings. Once the roads are covered in snow, typically by December, the locals navigate the charming streets using kick-sleds, also known as “sparks,” to move from one end of the village to the other. Røros is also known for its local handmade crafts and a burgeoning Norwegian food scene, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
In central Norway, the inland peaks and national parks, especially the areas around Geilo and the region nestled between Oslo and Bergen, draw both locals and international visitors seeking outdoor adventures. Here, you can find scenic trails, snow-related activities, and lively resorts. If your journey takes you to the Arctic region, you’ll significantly increase your chances of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, as well as spotting humpback and orca whales in the waters surrounding Tromsø.
Navigating Norway during the winter months, with its challenging conditions and mountainous terrain, often involves a combination of transportation methods. Expect to utilize short flights, train rides, 4×4 rentals, and possibly even super jeep transfers to reach your desired destinations.
Norway’s cities are ideally situated in close proximity to nature, allowing you to combine urban exploration with outdoor adventures. Put on your warmest layers and embark on long city strolls or short hikes. In Oslo, a mere 30-minute tram ride from the city center will transport you to a picturesque car-free island, where you can enjoy a scenic walk around one of its serene lakes. In Bergen, the seven surrounding mountains provide numerous hiking opportunities, with the most popular trails accessible via the Fløibanen Funicular, conveniently located in the heart of the city.
Photographers will find southern Norway particularly enchanting during this time of year, with its late sunrises, early sunsets, and captivating blue hours. Capture the essence of winter. To escape the cold and create a cozy atmosphere, seek out the local cafés, art exhibitions, and intimate concerts where Norwegians cherish the feeling of *kos*, their local interpretation of the Danish concept of *hygge*.
Northern Norway offers a range of unique winter activities, including year-round surfing and even snorkeling with whales, made possible by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Inland, you can partake in skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, explore rock art, and delve into Sami culture. Keep in mind that December in the Arctic region is characterized by the absence of sunlight. However, this extended darkness can enhance your experience. The star-studded night skies in the countryside are truly breathtaking, and the long nights mean more opportunities to witness the magical display of the Northern Lights.
**Events in December**
**Røros Christmas Market:** For one special weekend each year, the picturesque village of Røros transforms into a bustling Christmas market, attracting visitors from across Norway. You’ll discover a wide variety of offerings, from intricately carved toys to soft reindeer skins and warm wool hats, as well as an array of local food and drinks.
**Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony:** This prestigious invite-only event takes place in Oslo every December, capturing the attention of the world.
**St. Lucia Day:** This holiday parade and festival of lights celebration is observed throughout Norway in mid-December.
**Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day:** These three days are celebrated extensively throughout Norway. Expect festive celebrations, holiday markets, and caroling leading up to the holidays, as well as some business closures.
**Traveling to Norway in December? Consider these exciting itineraries:**
**Norway’s Winter Wonderland Tour:** Begin your journey in Tromsø, often referred to as the ‘Paris of the North,’ which will serve as your base for a variety of exciting snow activities. Embark on a voyage aboard the Hurtigruten to explore the stunning Lofoten Islands before continuing your sea journey towards the city of Trondheim, the UNESCO-listed village of Røros, and finally, an overnight stay in Oslo.
**Northern Norway’s Arctic Adventure:** In less than a week, experience the breathtaking snow-covered scenery and the mesmerizing Northern Lights on this scenic road trip through the Lofoten Islands. The adventure starts with a car ferry from Bodø, where you’ll have the freedom to drive along the coastline at your own pace, exploring some of Norway’s oldest and most colorful fishing towns, with their charming traditional red *rorbu* (fishermen’s huts) hugging the shoreline.
B-1927