Nordic / Scandinavia Tours in December 2025

What our customers ask about Nordic / Scandinavia Tours in December 2025

• What are the typical temperatures and daylight hours in Nordic/Scandinavia during December?

  December in Nordic/Scandinavia brings distinctly short days and winter temperatures. Iceland sees about 4-5 hours of daylight with temperatures from -5°C to +5°C (23-41°F). Parts of Finland and northern Sweden experience the polar night when the sun doesn't rise at all. Temperatures in Stockholm stay around 0°C (32°F) while Copenhagen runs slightly milder at 2-6°C (35-43°F). A TourRadar traveler noted "In November sunlight hours were very short with sunset around 4pm." Places like Hotel Cabin in Reykjavík provide warm shelter from the winter elements with proper heating and insulation.

• What are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Nordic/Scandinavia during December?

  Several locations offer good chances to spot the Northern Lights in December. Finnish Lapland near Rovaniemi and the Arctic Snow Hotel's glass igloos provide clear viewing spots. In Iceland going beyond Reykjavik to Lake Myvatn or Kirkjubæjarklaustur increases your chances. TourRadar travelers note "The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings will be dependent on weather conditions." The areas around Lulea in northern Sweden and Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula also serve as reliable viewing locations on clear nights.

• What unique winter activities can I experience in Nordic/Scandinavia during December?

  December fills the region with distinctive winter experiences. Visitors can hike Solheimajökull glacier explore ice caves at Breiðamerkurjökull or chase the Northern Lights. One TourRadar traveler shared "We were fortunate enough to see the Northern Lights 2x" during their Iceland tour. The Arctic Snow Hotel offers glass igloo stays while Santa's Village welcomes visitors in Rovaniemi Finland. Other activities include traditional Finnish saunas walks through snow-covered Thingvellir National Park and visits to winter waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss.

• What are the Christmas markets and winter festivals like in Nordic/Scandinavia during December?

  Christmas markets bring local traditions to life across Nordic cities in December. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen sets up market stalls under festive lights. Stockholm's Gamla Stan fills with vendors selling crafts and warming glögg. Helsinki's Senate Square showcases Finnish Christmas treats and handicrafts. The Skansen Christmas Market keeps Swedish winter traditions alive while Oslo's markets feature Nordic crafts and seasonal foods. Most markets operate daily through the Christmas season.

• What makes December a special time to visit Nordic/Scandinavia compared to other months?

  December combines natural wonders and cultural traditions unique to winter. Snow blankets the landscape while Northern Lights dance above creating perfect photo opportunities. TourRadar travelers note "Iceland's otherworldly aura seems to heighten at the winter months." Visitors can meet Santa in Rovaniemi browse Christmas markets or sleep under stars in glass igloos at the Arctic SnowHotel. The extended darkness provides more chances to see the Northern Lights while Swedish Lucia celebrations and Finnish Independence Day add cultural depth to any visit.

• What accommodation options are available in Nordic/Scandinavia during December?

  Winter accommodations range from unique to practical across the region. Finland's Arctic SnowHotel offers glass igloos for Northern Lights viewing. Iceland features hotels like Hotel Höfn and Hotel Katla perfect for winter storm watching. TourRadar travelers confirm "The accommodation is very good always clean warm and comfortable." City options include The Square Hotel in Copenhagen and Profil Hotels Central in Stockholm while remote locations offer guesthouses with winter comforts like saunas and fireplaces.