Festive Christmas Markets in Oslo and Bergen

• Explore the festive Christmas markets of Oslo and Bergen

• Immerse yourself in Norwegian Christmas traditions and Hygge

• Travel through snow-dusted fjords on the Bergen and Flåm Railway

• Live like a local with a private walking tour in Bergen

• RIB Safari tour through Aurlandsfjord

• Savour local festive dishes, mulled wine, and craft beers

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Oslo

Start your Festive Christmas Markets adventure by touching down in Oslo. Transfer to the beautiful Amerikalinjen Hotel, located next to the bustling central train station and close to the city’s festive activities.

Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail, the “Christmas Boat,” at the hotel’s bar Pier 42. This smart brasserie is named after the iconic New York pier where many Norwegians first arrived in North America in the early 20th century.

This evening, soak up Oslo’s festive atmosphere and explore our recommendations for dining, from lively food halls to Michelin-starred restaurants. You could also take an evening stroll to glimpse some of the city’s charming Christmas lights and markets nearby.

Amerikalinjen Hotel

The shipping company Amerikalinjen opened its headquarters in Oslo in 1919 at the peak of its mission to transport thousands of hopeful Norwegians across the vast Atlantic Ocean to New York and beyond in search of a new life. 100 years later, the building began a new chapter as Oslo’s newest boutique hotel telling the story of the Norwegian American heritage in the same spirit of discovery that was felt a century ago. The hotel stands opposite the central rail station overlooking the Opera and Barcode districts, offering a sanctuary in the city. The rooms and suites reflect an eclectic mix of modern comfort, Norwegian design classics and a rich history. The hotel’s Atlas cafe is a buzzing hub for locals and visitors alike offering fresh coffee, juices and baked goods. At the heart of the hotel is the covered courtyard, a green oasis where you can order food from the Atlas menu or a drink from the bar. The brasserie meanwhile serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner while Pier 42, named after New York’s iconic pier is designed to blend the heritage of Amerikalinjen’s cocktail culture with a drinks menu reflecting the modern day explorer.

Day 2: Oslo Christmas Markets

Start your day with a delicious breakfast in the hotel’s covered courtyard, then meet your private guide for a Christmas tour of Oslo. You’ll soon be immersed in the city’s festive spirit, learning how Norwegians create the cosy feeling of Hygge in the run-up to Christmas.

Stroll past candles flickering in shop windows, hear Christmas songs filling the streets, and enjoy the scent of mulled wine from wooden kiosks. Discover the Norwegian tradition of Julebord, and see how locals prepare festive treats in the weeks leading to Christmas.

This afternoon, we suggest visiting the Norsk Folkemuseum, especially magical at Christmas. Time your visit to coincide with the museum’s Christmas fair (first two weekends of December), where stalls are packed with crafts, baked goods, and decorations. Enjoy a coffee and gingerbread cookie as you explore historic houses depicting Christmases past. Don’t miss Santa’s workshop, festive choral music, and folk dancing.

If you have time, or want to extend your stay in Oslo, consider visiting the Hadeland Glassworks, where you can blow your own festive ornament to take home, a perfect souvenir from your visit to Oslo’s Christmas markets.

Oslo Private Christmas Spirit Walking Tour

Imagine a city proudly founded by mighty Vikings, who braved the cold, feasting on fish (though not just fish!) and living much like everyone else in the north. Fast forward to the 1600s, and King Christian IV of Denmark and Norway leaves his mark on Oslo’s history by relocating the city after a devastating fire. Today, that rich past is woven into the vibrant fabric of modern Oslo. And what better way to explore it than during the holiday season, when the city transforms into a winter wonderland of sparkling lights and festive cheer? On your Oslo Christmas Spirit Walking Tour, you’ll begin at the Nobel Peace Centre, where the lovely Aker Brygge offers stunning views of Oslo Harbour and Fjord, now glimmering under twinkling holiday lights. As you stroll through the heart of the city, you’ll pass landmarks such as Oslo City Hall, the National Theatre, and the famous Karl Johans gate, each adorned with festive decorations. Christmas in Oslo is about more than just architecture—it’s about tradition and warmth. You’ll dive into the Norwegian holiday spirit, learning about local customs like "Lille Julaften" and "Julebord." The smell of spiced Gløgg (mulled wine) fills the air as you explore one of the city’s Christmas markets, where cosy stalls sell handmade crafts and treats. The Royal Palace, surrounded by snow (although snow is not guaranteed), offers the perfect finale as you share stories of how the Royals celebrate the season.

Amerikalinjen Hotel

Day 3: Journey to the Fjords

With an early breakfast, take a short walk to the train station to board the Bergen railway. This incredible rail journey from Oslo to Flåm takes around five hours, winding through rolling countryside, snow-dusted forests, and sparkling lakes. At Myrdal, transfer to the famous Flåmsbana railway, which descends the mountainside to the village of Flåm at the foot of the fjord, a journey through some of Norway’s most breathtaking winter scenery.

From your hotel balcony, admire the snow-capped mountains and the glassy blue Aurlandsfjord before stepping outside to experience the village’s cozy, festive atmosphere as darkness falls.

Dinner this evening is served at the Aegir Brew Pub, a traditional building inspired by Norse mythology and reminiscent of a stave church. Enjoy a selection of local dishes, smoked reindeer, shellfish, white fish, pork shanks, and dark chocolate cake, all paired with locally brewed beers.

Amerikalinjen Hotel

Flamsbrygga Hotel

Overlooking the Naeroyfjord shoreline, surrounded by magnificent mountains, and only a short distance from the Flam railway, this welcoming hotel boasts a distinctive blend of traditional and contemporary styling and is home to the Aegir brew pub. Inspired by Norse mythology, with the exterior reminiscent of a stave church, step inside a world of drift wood walls, dragon heads and imposing fireplaces. Award winning beer, brewed onsite, is served alongside a menu created from the finest local ingredients.

Day 4: Scenic Fjords and Coastal City

After breakfast, embark on a thrilling RIB boat tour along the Aurlandsfjord, where snow-covered peaks and frozen waterfalls create a winter wonderland. After returning to Flåm, enjoy some free time to explore the village and have lunch before bidding farewell to this charming fjord village.

In the afternoon, board a boat to Gudvangen and continue by shuttle bus to Voss, then onwards to Bergen by train. The journey is nothing short of spectacular, passing snow-peaked mountains, glistening fjords, and picturesque villages along the way.

Once you arrive at Bergen Station and checked into your hotel, use the evening to step out to explore the city and enjoy dinner at one of our recommended restaurants, conveniently listed on your personalised travel app. This is the perfect introduction to festive experiences in Bergen, with the city’s seasonal charm and Christmas markets just waiting to be discovered.

Winter Fjord Safari (90 minutes)

Embark on a 1.5-hour winter fjord safari through Norway's breathtaking Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. The open RIB boats offer unparalleled views of snow-covered peaks and frozen waterfalls. The guide will share captivating stories as you journey to Sagfossen Waterfall and back to Flåm."

Flamsbrygga Hotel

Zander K Hotel

Design hotel Zander K offers affordable style and comfort in Bergen’s central district close to the railway station. The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere where good design and good food meet. An organic foodbar offers dishes using local ingredients and sources many of its beverages from local producers and brewers. There’s a fitness suite in the hotel and guests are invited to make use of their free bicycles to explore the city on two wheels. Free WiFi is provided throughout the hotel.

Day 5: Bergen's Christmas Spirit

Start your day by immersing yourself in Bergen’s special pre-Christmas atmosphere. Your first stop is the incredible “Pepperkakebyen”, the world’s largest gingerbread town. Created with love by local residents, this festive attraction showcases stunning, detailed buildings, many replicating real-life structures in Bergen. All covered in colourful candy and icing, surrounded by gingerbread mountains and sweet-filled fjords.

Next, wander through Bergen’s Christmas market, open daily in December. Browse stalls filled with handmade decorations, knitted goods, local delicacies, and, of course, warming gløgg. Listen to festive music and soak up the cheerful, convivial atmosphere, a true highlight of your festive experiences in Bergen. This is one of the best things to do in Bergen at Christmas, offering a perfect combination of local culture, seasonal charm, and holiday cheer.

Zander K Hotel

Day 6: Festive Farewell

After breakfast, it’s time to depart Bergen. If you’re not quite ready to leave, consider extending your stay in the city to explore more of its Christmas markets and seasonal attractions, or venture further north to experience the magic of Christmas in the Arctic.

DESTINATIONS

Festive Christmas Markets in Oslo and Bergen