Get into the Christmas spirit in Oslo - experience yuletide magic in the capital
When the snow starts falling and the lights brighten up the streets, Oslo is transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Here you can smell the scent of roasted almonds, hear Christmas songs in the background and enjoy warm mulled wine between Christmas shopping and magical moments. The Christmas spirit is never far away - especially when you stay in the heart of the city at Thon Hotels.
Christmas in Oslo - lights, joy and warmth
This December, Oslo sparkles in its own unique way. Karl Johans gate, Aker Brygge, Grünerløkka, Bjørvika and Spikersuppa are decorated with Christmas lights and Christmas music fills the air. Whether you’re on a romantic weekend, family holiday or trip with friends, you’ll find yuletide cheer in Oslo.
Top 3 places in Oslo to enjoy Christmas spirit
- Jul in Vinterland (Spikersuppa) - Oslo’s largest and most central Christmas market, complete with rides, an ice rink, food and handmade gifts
- Christmas market at Salt - For those looking for something different: mixed media art, design and yuletide spirit by the water.
- Norwegian Folk Museum - A more nostalgic alternative: experience a traditional Christmas with a horse-drawn sleigh ride, old mountain farm cabins and old-fashioned Christmas spirit.
Food and fun
The Christmas spirit in Oslo is best experienced with something good to drink and eat. Start your day at one of the city’s numerous cafés - where the scent of coffee and gingerbread meets the sounds of Christmas music. For lunch, Mathallen is always a great choice, with local delicacies and a lively atmosphere.
When evening falls, the city offers Christmas menus and delightful restaurants in all price ranges - from classic Norwegian flavours at Vaaghals, Bristol Grill and Engebret Café to modern dishes and panoramic views at Ekebergrestauranten. Around Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen, the lights sparkle along the water and you will find both elegant restaurants and intimate wine bars for a relaxing winter evening.
Whether you want to eat out, enjoy a drink with friends or simply take a relaxing break, Oslo’s culinary scene is full of destinations that bring the holiday spirit to life.
Christmas shopping
Stroll the shops on Bogstadveien or Karl Johan, where you'll find a wide selection of chain stores, while neighbourhoods such as Grünerløkka, Frogner or the new Oslobukta have charming and more understated options during the holiday season. Here you'll find a combination of local shops, niche products and sustainable alternatives, with a range of Christmas shopping experiences beyond the large chain stores.
Walking from shop to shop is part of the experience: do a bit of window shopping, stop at a small café and perhaps take a break with mulled wine or hot chocolate along the way. Supporting local businesses and conscious consumerism are all part of the Christmas spirit.
Tips: Set aside time to simply stroll and discover - it’s often the unexpected finds and quiet areas that create the best Christmas memories.
Concerts and culture
The holiday season in Oslo offers much more than just markets and shopping. From Christmas concerts at Oslo Cathedral, humour and performances at places like Latter to theatre performances like The Nutcracker at the Oslo Opera House, Christmas in Blåfjell at Christiania Teater and Putti Plutti Pott. It’s easy to spend an entire evening enjoying culture and the city has something for everyone.
It’s all about creating memories: enjoy a concert or theatre performance after an activity-filled day and make the evening a memorable one. Make sure to book your tickets ahead of time - the holiday season is popular.
Staying in the heart of Christmas magic
When staying at Thon Hotels, you're close to all the action. Our central locations are close to Christmas markets, shopping and cultural experiences. We offer an award-winning breakfast, warm ambiance and comfort - just what you need after a day out in the cold.
Find your hotel in Oslo and let the Christmas spirit find you.
