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Nine things to know if you are visiting Norway in December

Frazer Norwell
Frazer Norwell - [email protected]
Nine things to know if you are visiting Norway in December
Travelling to Norway in December? Here are a few things you should know. Pictured is a pack of dogs pulling a sledge beneath the Northern Lights in Norway. Photo by Thomas Lipke on Unsplash

From Christmas markets to local holidays, here's what you need to know when visiting Norway this December.

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If you are travelling to Norway this December, here are a few key things to remember, from essential practical info to the best things to see and do. 

Wrap up 

Norway is expected to see a cold snap throughout December, making the country even colder than it already is during the winter. 

So far, temperatures have been two degrees lower than usual for the time of the year. This means wrapping up will be essential. 

Layering-up and wool are the key elements for staying warm in Norway during the winter. 

READ ALSO: Five tips for enjoying the cold like a true Norwegian

Local holidays

Norwegians celebrate Christmas on December 24th. This is when they'll have the traditional meal of Pinnekjøtt, Ribbe or Lutefisk (depending on where they come from) and open gifts in the evening. 

 After that, Christmas day and the second day of Christmas (Boxing Day) are both public holidays. 

December 24th isn't an official public holiday, but most people are given the day off, and you can expect plenty of places to be closed. 

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Christmas markets

Norway doesn't carry the same reputation for festive markets as countries like Germany. However, there are still plenty of great markets with edible treats and handmade gifts. 

Luckily for you, we've compiled a list of Norway's best. Our list contains markets dotted all over the country. 

Ski season is underway

For many resorts, it's been a great start to the ski season as there has been plenty of snow in Norway in November and early December. 

For those who want to give the more typically Norwegian cross-country skiing ago, most free-to-use courses with tracks for beginners and those who prefer to keep things simple are ready and groomed. 

Christmas treats

There'll be plenty of tasty treats to sample over the festive period. Whether it's something straightforward like julbrus (Christmas soda), or gløgg to traditional dishes like Ribber, there's plenty to try. 

Snacks like lefse, a soft Norwegian flatbread, are trendy around Christmas, as are gingerbread houses, kakkemen and more. 

If you are eating out, restaurants may offer a julebord (Christmas table), a selection of Norwegian Christmas foods. 

Unique opportunities

Winter presents a unique opportunity for several activities. For example, the Northern Lights season is underway. The further north you are, the more likely you are to see them. However, the weather and conditions will need to be right. 

In addition, there's the aforementioned skiing, dog sledging, fjord cruises and snowmobiling. 

Travel (should be) smooth

As demand for travel has grown as the pandemic has wound down, airports across Europe have struggled with strikes and general chaos as travellers return in their millions. 

Norway also saw two strikes ground flights this summer. However, there are none scheduled during December that will affect travel. 

Flying into and within the country should be relatively straightforward. Although, you should expect longer queues the closer you get to Christmas. The arrival of snow shouldn't put too much of a dampener on things, either. Things should continue pretty much as normal. 

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If you are driving, you should make sure that your car or the one you are renting has winter tyres, though. 

Train ticket prices are generally based on demand, so you can expect to pay a premium for rail travel in Norway in December. You will also need to book ahead of time. 

Don't expect a lot of light

This will differ a bit on where you are heading. Essentially the south sees more light, while parts of the north will see very little (or none) daylight. 

The reason for this is the equinox in December, meaning the days will get shorter and shorter until the equinox passes. 

Bear this in mind if you prefer driving in the light or plan to do any sightseeing or activities requiring daylight.  

In Oslo, there are around six hours of sunlight a day. In Trondheim, there are approximately five, and in Tromsø, the sun won't even rise. 

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Getting out and about

As I am sure you already know, Norway is quite expensive. So we've compiled a list of what it'll set you back to do a few things. 

Beer: 99-125 kroner 

A glass of wine: 105-115 kroner

Cocktail: 120-140 kroner

Coffee: 35-45 kroner 

Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant (with a drink): 700-900 kroner

A cinnamon bun or hot dog: 45-65 kroner

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