Is Bergen or Oslo better for Christmas?

Oslo is generally better for a traditional, snowy Christmas experience with extensive shopping, museums, and the large "Winter Wonderland" market. Bergen is ideal for a more intimate, scenic, and unique holiday, featuring the world’s largest gingerbread city (Pepperkakebyen) and, despite likely rain, a charming harbor atmosphere.

Where is the best place to spend Christmas in Norway?

Where is the best place to spend Christmas in Norway? Bergen and Oslo are popular for markets and city traditions. Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands and northern towns above the Arctic Circle are best for Northern Lights and snow.

Which is prettier, Bergen or Oslo?

If you love big cities, museums, and international food, you'll enjoy Oslo. But if you want to experience fjords, hiking, and historic charm, Bergen is the better choice. For me, Bergen is the best city for travelers – it feels more local, it has easier to access the fjords, and it's a great base for exploring Norway.

Is Bergen worth visiting at Christmas?

Enjoying the festive season in Bergen is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit, with plenty of fun and cozy sights to see and activities to take part in – from Christmas markets to the world's biggest gingerbread town, Bergen has it all!

What is the best city in Norway to visit in December?

Norway in December

Towns sparkle with holiday lights, especially in Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. The north offers long polar nights, creating the perfect conditions for aurora viewing. Ski resorts open for the season, making December a festive and adventurous month to visit Norway.

BERGEN OR OSLO? | VISIT NORWAY on a budget

Is it worth visiting Oslo in December?

Oslo is one of the hottest cities to visit – even in the coldest months. Browse world-class art in sleek new museums, enjoy locally-sourced delicacies, sip hot chocolate at cosy cafés, and go for a (seriously) refreshing dip in the fjord – followed by a steaming hot sauna.

Does Bergen have a Christmas market?

Bergen and the region offer a variety of Christmas markets that set the mood for the holiday season. The largest market is the Bergen Christmas Market, which you can find at Festplassen every year. Here you can enjoy traditional Christmas shopping, taste local food, and find unique gifts.

Is 4 days in Bergen too long?

The perfect amount of days to spend in Bergen is 3 to 4 days. This timeframe allows you to dedicate 1 full day to enjoy the Nærøyfjorden cruise to Flåm and Stegastein viewpoint tour, and allow plenty of time to meander Bergen and its inner city attractions for the other 2 to 3 days.

What is the most picturesque Christmas town?

Christmas Towns at a Glance

• Leavenworth, Washington – Bavarian-style village with a Christmas charm.
• Aspen, Colorado – Snowy mountain luxury with festive activities.
• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania – The “Christmas City” is rich in tradition and markets.
• McAdenville, North Carolina – Famous for massive light displays.

Is there snow in Bergen at Christmas?

In Bergen, the most common time to experience snow is during the winter months, from December to February. Here's a quick overview of what to expect: Most Likely Months: While snow can happen anytime during winter, February is statistically the month with the most snowfall.

Which is cheaper, Oslo or Bergen?

A Cost of Living Comparison, carried out by Numbeo, finds that:

• The cost of living (without including rent) is 3.3% lower in Oslo.
• The cost of living (including rent) is 2.2% lower in Bergen.
• Rent is 16.6% lower in Bergen than in Oslo.
• Restaurant prices are 5.3% lower in Oslo.
• Groceries are 1.2% lower in Bergen.

How long is the train ride from Oslo to Bergen?

The train ride takes around 6-7 hours, but the views of mountains, fjords, and waterfalls along the way make the journey well worth it. ​There is no easier way to get a ticket than online.

Is Oslo snow at Christmas?

The central parts of the country are always more snowsure than the coast, but Oslo and its surrounding areas often have snow at Christmas. The same applies to Northern Norway. The southern regions and Fjord Norway are more of a gamble – so you'll probably have to head inland to have a good shot at snow.

Which Scandinavian country is best for Christmas?

The Christmas season is a perfect time to make the first-ever trip to Norway and explore this stunning country on city tours. During this period, the streets of Norwegian cities appear more beautiful than ever, abundantly adorned with Christmas decorations and bustling with people – locals and tourists alike.

Where is the Christmas Village in Norway?

Tromsø, the Christmas town

The Arctic mini-metropolis offers a pre-Christmas period full of magic. Tromsø is the perfect place to get into the festive spirit.

What is the most magical Christmas town in the world?

Rovaniemi, Finland (Santa Claus Village)

Often called the best Christmas town in the world. Village Inspiration: Snowy rooftops, log cabins, Santa's Workshop.

What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?

Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

What is the most Christmassy village?

The most Christmassy towns and cities in the UK:

• Bowness-on-Windermere.
• Bakewell.
• York.
• Keswick.
• Buxton.
• London.
• Arundel.
• Haworth.

Which is nicer, Oslo or Bergen?

Neither Oslo nor Bergen is objectively "better"; they offer different experiences: Bergen is better for picturesque scenery, charm, and fjord access, with colorful wooden houses and mountain hikes nearby, while Oslo is better for a vibrant, diverse city with world-class museums, theater, and a broader restaurant scene, though it's a larger, more expensive capital with less immediate fjord beauty but excellent urban nature access. Your choice depends on whether you prefer cozy historic charm (Bergen) or bustling urban culture (Oslo). 

What is so special about Bergen?

Bergen, Norway, is special for its unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, famously called the "Gateway to the Fjords" due to its location nestled between seven mountains and picturesque fjords, featuring the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, a thriving food scene (UNESCO City of Gastronomy), and a lively mix of outdoor adventures and urban charm.
 

Is Bergen nice at Christmas?

Bergen is a fun place to get into the Christmas spirit! Wander through the medieval passageways of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site: Bryggen. The wharf is home to many shops, galleries, and restaurants.

What Christmas movie is set in Bergen Norway?

About My Norwegian Holiday. JJ, grieving the loss of her grandmother and seeking dissertation inspiration, stumbles upon an unexpected holiday destiny. Meeting Henrik, a Norwegian from Bergen, their connection deepens when he discovers she has a troll figurine from his hometown.

What to wear in Bergen in December?

In general, what you should aim for is outerwear that allows for some layering underneath - the temperature does drop below 0°C sometimes, so make sure you have room for an extra layer, such as a woolly jumper, underneath your coat. A water resistant anorak teamed with a good fleece jacket is also a good combination.