Where to Go, What to Expect & When to Book with Aurora Nights
As the festive season approaches, Scandinavia transforms into a magical wonderland of sparkling lights, traditional markets, and the comforting aroma of cinnamon, cardamom and mulled wine. If you’re dreaming of a wintry escape in 2025, there’s nowhere more enchanting than the Nordic capitals and snowy Lapland. Whether you seek artisan gifts, festive flavours or a glimpse of the Northern Lights, now is the perfect time to book your Christmas market break with Aurora Nights.
Top Christmas Markets in Scandinavia
Copenhagen, Denmark
Dates: 17 November – 5 January
The Danish capital oozes festive charm. Tivoli Gardens is transformed into a glittering fairy-tale, complete with Christmas rides, seasonal shows and cosy wooden stalls. You’ll also find delightful markets at Nyhavn and Højbro Plads, offering roasted almonds, æbleskiver (sugar-dusted pancake balls), and warming Danish gløgg. Perfect for couples and families looking for classic ‘hygge’ Christmas magic.
Stockholm, Sweden
Dates: Mid-November – 23 December
Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan) hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets in Stortorget Square, dating back to 1837. Browse handmade gifts, Swedish straw ornaments, and spiced treats like pepparkakor (gingerbread biscuits) and gravlax. You’ll also discover smaller markets at Skansen and Kungsträdgården, each with their own distinctive charm.
Helsinki, Finland
Dates: 1 – 22 December
Set against the backdrop of Senate Square, Helsinki’s Christmas Market is a serene and authentic celebration of Finnish festive culture. With over 100 stalls, visitors can enjoy local glögi, cinnamon buns (korvapuusti), smoked salmon, and handcrafted gifts. A vintage carousel and twinkling lights make it a favourite for all ages.
Rovaniemi & Santa Claus Village, Finnish Lapland
Dates: Throughout December
For the ultimate Christmas experience, head to Santa’s official hometown in Rovaniemi. At the Santa Claus Village, nestled in the Arctic Circle, you’ll meet Father Christmas himself, ride reindeer sleighs, and enjoy open-air markets under snowy skies. It’s an unforgettable destination, especially for families and those hoping to see the Northern Lights.
What to Expect – Food, Traditions & Atmosphere
Scandinavian Christmas markets offer a more intimate and traditional alternative to their larger European cousins. Expect fir trees, snowflakes, candlelight and the comforting sounds of carols and laughter echoing through medieval squares.
Festive Flavours to Try
- Gløgg / Glögi: A spiced, warm mulled wine with raisins and almonds
- Æbleskiver: Danish pancake puffs served with jam
- Pepparkakor: Thin, crispy Swedish ginger biscuits
- Korvapuusti: Delicious Finnish cinnamon rolls
- Gravlax & Reindeer: Smoked specialities on rye or crispbread
Handmade Gifts & Local Crafts
Markets are filled with authentic Nordic wares, including handwoven textiles, wooden toys, Sámi jewellery, beeswax candles, and straw goats.
Why Book with Aurora Nights?
Aurora Nights specialise in short breaks across the Nordics, blending Christmas cheer with Arctic adventure. Whether you’re after a city escape to Stockholm, Copenhagen or Helsinki, or want to experience the magic of Lapland, our team curate tailor-made itineraries to suit every kind of traveller.
Your festive package can include:
- Boutique or family-run accommodation
- Private airport transfers
- Market tours, Santa visits and husky safaris
- Optional extras like glass igloo stays, snowmobiles, and aurora hunts
Visit aurora-nights.co.uk to browse ideas and itineraries.
Plan Early for a Magical Getaway
Christmas markets in Scandinavia usually run from mid-November through to Christmas, with Santa Village continuing into New Year. Popular dates and hotels book up fast, so early reservations are essential – especially for Lapland and Northern Lights excursions.
Whether you fancy sipping glögg beside the carousel in Helsinki, skating through Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, or meeting Santa under the Arctic stars – Aurora Nights can take you there.
Book now and unwrap the magic of Christmas in the Nordics.
