With so many markets throughout the city, many travellers won’t have time to see them all. Each one of London’s Best Christmas Markets has its own unique atmosphere, making it the right choice for your trip. I’ve organized all our top picks to visit this year and highlighted the best aspects of each to suit your unique taste!

Table Of Contents

1. Map of London's Best Christmas Markets
2. Southbank Centre Winter Market
3. Christmas by the River Market
4. Hay's Galleria Market
5. Christmas Market at Trafalgar Square
6. Columbia Road Flower Market
7. Covent Garden
8. Borough Market Christmas
9. Portobello Road Market
10. The Greenwich Christmas Arts & Crafts Market
11. Maltby Street Christmas Market
12. Canopy Market at King's Cross
13. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
14. What to Skip? The Leicester Square Christmas Market

Map of London’s Best Christmas Markets

Many small weekend markets pop up throughout the month, but I wanted to focus on the larger market that runs throughout the Christmas season, giving more people the chance to see them. But if you’re looking for something smaller and more local, keep your eyes peeled for posters advertising these pop-up events!

Southbank Centre Winter Market

Head to Southbank Centre Winter Market for a traditional alpine-style Christmas market experience in the centre of London. Located in the heart of the city along the Southbank of the River Thames, Christmas really gets into full swing! In addition to the gorgeous scenery along the famed Thames River, you also get stunning views of the London Eye above you as you peruse the goods in the market.

Over 90 wooden chalets lined the edge of the Southbank, covered in a canopy of thousands of twinkle lights. At the edge of the market, a vintage carousel delights young and old as it spins around playing Christmas tunes.

Southbank Christmas Market

Wandering the stalls here, you can find everything from festive indulgences to Christmas street food and handmade arts and crafts. My favourite stall was the unique map seller. Buying a vintage map of London feels like the perfect gift to bring home as a souvenir of your London travels.

As you stroll, winter classics like raclette, chocolate-covered marshmallow kisses, dutch pancakes, and even warm cheese toasties can be found. And don’t forget to grab a cup of mulled wine or a hot toddy to keep those hands nice and warm while drinking a delicious beverage to boost!

Why Visit Southbank Christmas Market

One of the biggest draws of the Southbank Market is the rotating art installations that accompany a visit to the market. The year I visited, ten internationally acclaimed light artists set up various installations featuring illuminated geodesic domes and neon glowing trees. There was also an area dedicated to featuring young up-and-coming skateboarders, which might not have anything to do with Christmas, but it was so entertaining to watch and really added to the overall exciting atmosphere inside this market.

Christmas by the River Market

Against the backdrop of some of London’s most iconic locations lies London Bridge City’s Christmas by the River. This holiday market is nestled along the water’s edge under the glowing lights of Tower Bridge. Winter cabins covered in fairy lights line the riverside. Each one sells hand-crafted items and delicious festive foods. 

In addition to shopping and food, there are activities throughout the seasons, such as outdoor film screenings and choir performances. The films are screened at 7:30 p.m. on various evenings; the full schedule can be found on their website. You can grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine to keep you warm while enjoying films like Elf, Home Alone, The Polar Express and my favourite, The Muppet Christmas Carol. If you’re looking to have a drink with some friends, the Riverside Lodge at The Scoop and Bar Reflexion are two lively spots to grab a seasonal cocktail.

Why Visit Christmas by the River Market

The location, set along the river with panoramic views across the city, makes it one of the most scenic markets in London. I also found that the food here was more inventive and interesting than the other markets. I happily returned here one evening just for the food and the view alone!

Hay’s Galleria Market

During the nineteenth century, Hay’s Galleria was a large warehouse servicing hundreds of ships docked along London’s harbour. In the 1980s, it was redeveloped as a mixed-use building where you can wander through the enormous arched warehouse’s interior. Inside, you’ll find a mix of charming boutiques and high-end restaurants.

At Christmastime, the galleries are decorated to the nines in festive swag. In the gallery’s centre is one of London’s largest Christmas trees, which towers down over its visitors.

The gallery is home to a pop-up of artisan Christmas market stalls selling impressive, unique, high-quality handicrafts. While it’s a smaller selection than at other spots on the list, I was so impressed by the handicrafts’ quality and uniqueness. Make sure you check out their free carol concert schedule to enjoy a festive sing-along lead by some amazingly talented singers!

Why Visit the Hay’s Galleria Market

My favourite part of Hay’s Galleria is its aesthetics. I love the modern take on Christmas decor that emanates from this entire building. Hay’s on the River is a chic food and drink venue that transforms into an Alpine Lodge for the winter. Inside, you can sip hot mulled wine and pink marshmallow-topped hot chocolate while indulging in raclette-covered fries. The perfect antidote for a chilly day! The bar features a cherry, festive atmosphere where large groups can enjoy a cocktail.

Christmas Market at Trafalgar Square

The Christmas Market at Trafalgar Square is set in the iconic Trafalgar Square, a bustling public square in central London, next to the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column. The location adds so much to the atmosphere and overall charm of the market.

The market features a variety of stalls and vendors, offering a wide range of holiday-themed foods and gifts. You can find traditional Christmas decorations, ornaments, winter clothing items, funky jewellery and London souvenirs. I will say that this market is definitely one of the most overpriced options with some of the least unique vendors, but they are trying to appeal to the widest audience, and the location comes with a steep price tag, hence the high price tag of the items.

Why Visit the Christmas Market at Trafalgar Square

This is my favourite market for first-time visitors to London. Towering above the market is the iconic London Christmas tree that is gifted to the city of London by the city of Oslo every year. This tree, usually a Norwegian spruce, is a symbol of gratitude for the assistance provided by the United Kingdom during World War II. Every day of the week, groups of carolers gather here to entertain visitors. Final timings and dates have not yet been finalized, although performances typically occur between 4 pm and 8 pm on weekdays and 2 pm and 6 pm on weekends.

Columbia Road Flower Market

The Columbia Road Flower Market is a vibrant and colorful market located in the East End. East London is known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafes. Throughout the years, every Sunday this peaceful cobblestone laneway is closed to traffic and florists from all over the country gather to sell their fresh cut greenery.

Why Visit the Columbia Road Flower Market?

In the winter, the Columbia Road Flower Market hosts a special Christmas market for the holiday season. Filling all the stands are boughs of holly, natural wreaths, mini-Christmas trees, poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and various winter blooms. Even if you can’t bring any bouquets home, just wandering the stalls and admiring all the festive flowers is a feast for the eyes.

In addition to flowers and plants, the market offers unique Christmas gifts and crafts. Shoppers can explore the Columbia Road shops selling handmade ornaments, festive ceramics, candles, and other holiday-themed goodies.

To keep visitors warm the Christmas market offers a range of street food and hot drinks. You can indulge in warming mulled wine, hot chocolate, seasonal pastries, and other tasty treats. Music is blaring throughout the streets and everyone is getting into the festive spirit no matter where you go! The Columbia Road Flower Market is only open on Sundays, so it can get quite crowded as the day goes on. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid the largest crowds.

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is undoubtedly one of the busiest Christmas Markets in London, and many Londoners steer clear of it throughout the holidays as it can be too much for some. But there is a good reason for the hubbub. During Christmas, Covent Garden transforms into a festive wonderland with its own Christmas market under the covered rooftops inside the Apple Market hall.

Why Visit the Covent Garden Christmas Market?

One of the greatest parts about visiting the Covent Garden Christmas Market is walking around the historic Covent Garden Market building. The interior and exterior are beautifully decorated with various festive lights, ornaments, and giant Christmas trees. The market’s iconic glass-covered Piazza is adorned with seasonal decorations, creating a magical and cozy ambiance. And once every hour, they even have a “snowfall” in the plaza! Despite only being made of soap foam, it still looks real and helps get you into the Christmas spirit.

Inside the hall, a series of festive stalls featuring an assortment of holiday gifts, decorations, and crafts. Visitors can browse through unique and artisanal products, making it an excellent place to find special presents.

Because Covent Garden is so popular with tourists, it is often a very popular spot for street performers, and during the Christmas season, these entertainers add an extra layer of merriment to the market. You can expect magicians, musicians, jugglers, and other talented individuals to showcase their skills to the gathered crowds. Last year there were even performances by the Royal Opera House, the cast of Elf the Musical and the London International Gospel Choir.

Borough Market Christmas

While Borough Market is one of the most historic public markets in London, which is open all year! But this historic market takes on a special festive atmosphere during the Christmas season with various holiday-themed menus, additions and activities. Holly and ivy cover every inch of the roof, hung along with twinkle lights and giant red ribbon-wrapped wreaths.

While Borough Market is primarily a food market, it offers an array of seasonal produce and treats during Christmas. Vendors sell everything from traditional mince pies and Christmas puddings to fresh cranberries and festive cheeses. Britain does cheese almost better than anywhere else, and I loved sampling all these unique seasonal combinations.

Why Visit Borough Market Christmas Market?

One of my favourite activities is to come to the market and build yourself a Christmas hamper filled with seasonal treats. Christmas hampers, also known as holiday hampers or festive hampers, have a long and storied history in the United Kingdom. These hampers are typically filled with various food and drink items and are often given as gifts or used to celebrate Christmas.

The stalls have an enticing array of holiday-themed food and drink options. Mulled wine and hot cider are popular to keep warm while browsing the sprawling stands. If you’re looking for a gift for a foodie, Borough Market features an assortment of artisanal and handmade gifts that make for excellent Christmas presents!

Portobello Road Market

The Portobello Road Market is another weekly market that gets a makeover at Christmas. Located in the charming neighbourhood of Notting Hill, a now infamous neighbourhood thanks to the popular Hugh Grant and Julie Roberts movie of the same name, this vibrant market is known for its fantastic atmosphere and eclectic offerings. Portobello Road Market is primarily known for its antiques and vintage items. At Christmas, vendors go all out to find vintage Christmas decorations or retro holiday-themed clothes.

Other vendors sell unique, artisanal gifts, such as handmade crafts, jewelry, and festive decorations, which are great for anyone looking to check off many people from their shopping list. The international food stalls at Portobello Road Market are always a huge draw throughout the year, and at Christmas, you can find seasonal delights from all over the world.

Why Visit Portobello Road Christmas Market?

One of the best reasons to come down to the Portobello Road Christmas Market is to admire the colourful houses and charming streets of Notting Hill. The area’s unique architecture is made even more beautiful, covered in Christmas decorations, creating a picturesque setting for holiday shopping! Portobello Road is dotted with cozy cafes, pubs, and restaurants. These establishments decorate their interiors and often offer special seasonal menus, making it a great place to take a break from shopping and enjoy a festive meal or drink!

The Greenwich Christmas Arts & Crafts Market

The Greenwich Christmas Arts & Crafts Market is a festive market held in the historic district of Greenwich during the holiday season. Greenwich is famous for its maritime history and is home to popular attractions like the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory.

The Greenwich Market is adorned with twinkling lights and colourful ornaments, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all who enter. Like many Christmas markets, Greenwich Christmas Market offers a variety of seasonal food and drinks. You can indulge in traditional treats such as mulled wine, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, mince pies, and gingerbread cookies. Additionally, you may find stalls selling international cuisine and street food.

Why Visit the Greenwich Arts and Crafts Christmas Market

Undoubtedly, the Greenwich Arts and Crafts Christmas Market has the best selection, quality and price of handmade goods. Here, you can find so many different unique and handmade Christmas gifts. You can browse stalls selling a wide range of artisanal products, including jewelry, ceramics, textiles, artwork, and more. Shopping at the market supports small-scale producers and allows you to discover unique, handcrafted items. Buying a gift here is such a feel-good experience!

The market often features live entertainment to get visitors into the holiday spirit. This may include carol singers, brass bands, local musicians, and other performers who entertain the crowds with festive tunes.

Maltby Street Christmas Market

Maltby Street Market, also known as Maltby Street Market Ropewalk, is one of the city’s more “underground” food spots. Located in the Bermondsey neighbourhood, the market is nestled in a series of railway arches along a charming cobbled street called Ropewalk. Over the years, this market has made a name for itself, featuring a diverse range of artisanal and gourmet food stalls. Here, you can sample many international cuisines, including Spanish tapas, Middle Eastern dishes, fresh seafood, charcuterie, cheese, chocolates, pastries, and more.

This is specifically a night market, which gives it a particularly enchanting vibe. Yes, some other markets on this list are open at night, but the fact that one is only open at night makes it feel like an intimate neighbourhood party you’re lucky enough to be invited to!

Why Visit the Maltby Street Christmas Market

THE FOOD! This is the market to come to EAT! During the Christmas season, the market hosts a series of after-dark calls. The seasonal market features gastronomic delights, winter feasts and succulent flavours. All set under the exquisite Dickensian backdrop perfectly lit by the overhead twinkle lighting. You can also enjoy the festive sounds of carolers singing alongside your food. There is no escaping the aroma of hot mulled wine (or beer) filling the chilly night air. It’s impossible to resist!

Canopy Market at King’s Cross

It’s the perfect juxtaposition that today, one of the oldest Victorian-covered market halls built in 1888, is home to the most modern and trendy Christmas Markets. The King’s Cross Canopy Market was initially built with its steel and glass rooftop to cover workers loading goods in and out of railway carriages from London’s torrential downpours. Today, the Canopy Market brings together independent food producers, craft designers, artists and street food traders under the same roof.

The market is home to local artisans selling everything from handmade jewelry, ceramics, CBD products, textiles, skincare, candles, artwork, and other one-of-a-kind items that make for excellent Christmas presents. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you shop under the overhead starry lights. Making you feel one with the night sky. But thanks to the covered roof, you get all the ambiance of the outdoors without being exposed to the frigid temperatures.

They host local musicians and festive choirs through the market’s open hours to entertain shoppers. The buzz of live music echoing inside this historic building is absolutely entrancing. Grab a cup of mulled wine, cider, or hot chocolate while swaying to the tunes, enjoying that infectious Christmas spirit.

Why Visit the King’s Cross Canopy Market

If you want to support sustainability and be more eco-conscientious in your Christmas gift-giving this year, the King’s Cross Canopy Market is here to come! Shopping here makes you feel good about supporting local artists and the London creative economy! They also host a special Christmas Vegan Market, highlighting some of London’s best independent makers and fantastic vegan delicacies!

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is one of London’s biggest Christmas attractions. Every year, Hyde Park is transformed into a magical extravaganza with carnival rides, skating rinks, ice sculptures and, of course, a traditional European Christmas Market. This annual festival kicks off in late November and shuts down in early January, making it an attractive option for visitors coming to London all throughout the Christmas season.

Christmas Market

The heart of Winter Wonderland is its Christmas market, which consists of numerous charming traditional wooden chalets and stalls. Here, you can shop for Christmas gifts, decorations, and crafts. You’ll find unique items, handcrafted goods, and many festive trinkets.

In addition to shopping, the stalls are filled with traditional winter treats like roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and gingerbread cookies. Additionally, you can savour craft beers, German bratwursts and hot pretzels inside the Bavarian Village.

Why Visit Winter Wonderland?

Winter Wonderland in London is a beloved Christmas tradition, especially for families. While couples or solo travellers might find the atmosphere a bit excessive, for families, you can get an entire day’s worth of activities just from visiting this one spot! Creating lasting memories in a magical winter setting.

What to Skip? The Leicester Square Christmas Market

There is one notable Christmas Market not included on this list, and that is the Leicester Square Christmas Market. While this is one of the most popular Christmas Markets in the city, I found it to be anything but spectacular. I have nothing against a touristy market; I’ve included some on this list. They are as joyful as any hipster market. But the Leicester Square Christmas Market is simply too crowded and overpriced to get my endorsement. Several times, I went to check it out when the line to get inside wrapped around Cranbourn Street. And since the market is so small, it’s really not worth the wait.

If you’re looking for a market close to the tourist sights, opt for the Trafalgar Square market instead. The stalls are almost identical, but Leicester Square is so crowded and tightly packed that it can feel downright claustrophobic. And it lacks any of the beautiful views you get inside Tragalfar Square.

London truly comes alive during the festive season, and a visit to any of the city’s Christmas markets is the best way to get into the holiday spirit. From the enchanting lights and aromas of mulled wine to the unique artisanal finds and the joyous atmosphere, these markets offer something for everyone. So, whether you’re sipping hot cocoa at Southbank Centre Winter Market, or exploring the historical wonders of Greenwich Christmas Market, you’re in for a jolly good time. Happy holidays and may your London Christmas market visits be filled with warmth, joy, and a sprinkle of that special holiday magic!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Best London Christmas Markets to Visit this Festive Season [2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Whether you are a local or a tourist, these holiday markets are a great way to support local businesses and neighbourhood creative artisans. But, with so many different options, it can be tricky to know which markets are worth visiting. So I’ve put together this helpful list of the best Toronto Holiday Markets you won’t want to miss during this beautiful time of year!

Toronto Holiday Markets

1. The Distillery Winter Village
2. One-of-a-Kind Winter Show
3. Swedish Christmas Fair
4. Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market
5. Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market
6. Toronto Artisan Market
7. Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square
8. Stackt Holiday Hills
9. Evergreen's Winter Market

The Distillery Winter Village

When you visit the Distillery District during the holidays, you will feel like you are in a winter wonderland! The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most charming spots. Built in 1832, the old Gooderham and Worts Distillery has been preserved to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The cobblestone streets and restored Victorian Industrial buildings have been transformed into a pedestrian-only neighbourhood with amazing restaurants, cozy bars and unique boutiques. 

And there is no better time to visit the Distillery District than at Christmastime! The entire neighbourhood is converted in November into the Distillery Winter Village. The streets are transformed with millions of twinkle lights and bright Christmas baubles. Wooden market stalls pop up to mirror those traditional European Christmas Markets. It’s a great spot to do some holiday shopping! The market hosts over 65+ unique and local shops, artisans, restaurants and cafés. So whatever you’re looking for, you most likely will be able to find it here!

Hours & Admission

The market opens on November 17th, and the event’s last day is December 31st.

Tickets are required on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 PM and December 27-31 after 4:00 PM. At all other times, access is free of charge and tickets are not required. Your ticket time window indicates what time you can enter the distillery. But there is no limit to your visit duration. 

The market is always packed on the weekend after 4 PM, hence the requirement for ticketing so they can control crowd levels. If you can go during the week, this will be your best chance to visit when it’s less busy. I always advise going during the week if you can.

Tickets are $11 + HST each. Kids 9 and under are FREE of charge.

Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto

One-of-a-Kind Winter Show

The One-of-a-Kind Show is an arts & crafts fair held a few times a year in the huge Enercare Centre within Exhibition Place. Every year at Christmas time, over 600 artists from across the country gather to sell their handmade goods. This is often my favourite spot to shop for Christmas presents and unique seasonal decor. The stuff you find here, you won’t find anywhere else! It’s nice to have such one-of-a-kind pieces of festive decor that your friends and family will be in awe of this Christmas.

With over 600+ vendors, you can wander the floor for hours. Just admiring all the incredible things people can create! Sometimes it feels more like going to an art gallery than a craft show! But here, you can actually afford most of the art you see on the walls! 

Hours & Admission

November 24 – December 4 | Weekdays & Saturdays: 10am to 9pm | Sunday: 10am to 6pm
Late Night Hours: December 1, 10 AM-11 PM

Tickets: $23 Adults | $17 Seniors | $17 Youth 5-17

Address: 100 Princes’ Blvd #1, Toronto

Swedish Christmas Fair

The Swedish Christmas Fair was always one of my favourite events in Toronto! I sorely missed it when it was closed in 2020 and 2021. But I rejoiced when I heard it would be back in 2022! The Swedish Christmas Market is hosted by SWEA Toronto. This adorable marketplace features Swedish designs, products and folk art that will surely add some Scandinavian flair to your holiday decor. I fondly remember my trip to Stockholm at Christmas and all the wonderful Christmas markets. But being back at the Swedish Chrismas Fair in Toronto feels like being right back there, without ever having to get on a plane.

Be sure to stop by the cafe to get a hot plate of meatballs and lingonberry jam. There are also many events throughout the day, like a St. Lucia procession, Swedish Folk Dancers and Swedish Christmas Singers. It’s a great event to learn more about Swedish Christmas traditions. But my favourite part? The traditional Glögg, which is Swedish mulled wine. This beverage is the perfect drink to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. M

Hours & Admission

November 19 – 20, 2022 | 11 am – 4 pm | FREE Admission
Address: 585 Dundas St E, Toronto

Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market

Most people who visit Toronto rarely experience the east end of the city. The downtown core definitely hogs all the attention. But in my opinion (and I suppose I’m biased since I live here), this is a sorely overlooked part of town. The east end is full of charming architecture, a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic shopping and restaurants. But to find all that east-end energy in one place, you should head to the Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market. The market is held every weekend in December. It features 30-40 local artisans and east-end businesses selling all the best Christmas goodies! Plus all sorts of handmade items, perfect for your Christmas gift list. In addition to the shopping, there is also a hot chocolate bar, a chance to meet Santa, ornament-making workshops and a children’s craft corner! Something for everyone

Hours & Admission

Address: 911 Queen St East, Leslieville
Dec 3-4 | Dec 10-11 | Dec 17-18 | FREE admission

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Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option for your Christmas Shopping, you should check out the Annual Toronto Botanical Garden Holiday Market. Over 65 local vendors come here to showcase their planet-friendly and botanically-themed festive products. If you love nature-based decor, this is the place to go. Everything from handmade real Christmas wreaths, seasonal plants, and vibrant poinsettias. There are even rare flower bulbs to give as gifts, great for planting in the spring! There are also Holiday Decor Demonstrations where you can learn how to make gorgeous floral arrangements! Something that will impress all your friends and family when they see it on the walls. And don’t forget to grab a fresh hot drink or light bite over in the charming Bloom Cafe!

Hours & Admission

Friday, November 25, 2 to 8 pm | Saturday, November 26, 10 am to 4 pm | Sunday, November 27, 10 am to 4 pm.
If you buy your tickets in advance, they are $10 per person. Tickets cost $15 at the door, so it’s best to buy them in advance to save some coins!
Address: 777 Lawrence Ave E, North York

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Toronto Artisan Market

The Toronto Artisan Market is a non-profit organization ​that supports and benefits local artisans and the neighbouring community. Every year, the organization hosts a holiday market at the Twist Gallery on Queen Street West. Everything from holiday gifts to original art, handmade jewelry, skincare, ceramics, home goods and more can be found here. One of the best places in the city to shop for the most uniquely creative gift options! Even if you have no idea what to get someone for Christmas, this is the place to get inspired. You’ll be amazed at what you find and how happy you will be to discover the perfect something for that special someone you didn’t even know they needed!

Hours & Admission

Saturday November 19th – Sunday November 20th | 11 am to 5 pm
Free Admission + Pet Friendly
Address: 1100 Queen St W, Toronto

Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square

Every year, Nathan Phillips Square is a hub of Christmas activities and transforms into a magical winter wonderland. It is one of my favourite places to come at the start of the season to get into the Christmas spirit. And this year, their holiday fair has returned once more! This fantastic market is entirely free and open almost every day of the week! In addition to the fantastic vendors, there is a mesmerizing winter carnival with an old-fashioned carousel, carnival games and more! It is the perfect place for the kids to get that memorable meet-and-greet with Santa! And for the adults, there is the Polar Point bar. This holiday cocktail bar features seasonal favourites like mulled wine, hot apple cider, seasonal beer, liquor, and wine.

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The brilliance of this market is the number of food trucks there selling delicious treats for you to enjoy! Potato Twists, Korean fried cheese, hot dumplings and Tiny Tom’s Donuts are just some Toronto street food classics you can get here at the market. Exhibiting the creative flair and cultural diversity of our city is of the utmost importance at the Holiday Fair at Nathan Phillips Square.

Hours & Admission

December 2nd to December 23rd (Closed Mondays)
Tuesday to Thursday – 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm | Friday to Saturday – 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm | Sunday – 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto

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Stackt Holiday Hills

Stackt Market is North America’s largest shipping container market and is located in the heart of Toronto’s downtown. Literally stacked up, one on top of the other, a series of recycled shipping containers are now home to various shops and restaurants. Everything from microbreweries to local artisans. It is also a relaxed place to go and get some of the most incredible views across the city. Pop-up vendors arrive at the holiday market during the festive season. They join various Christmas workshops, winter games, and festive experiences like the giant inflatable Santa’s Village! Their fire pits are the perfect place to relax with friends while keeping warm under a picturesque snowfall. There is also an ironically Canadian s’more station! Perfect to nosh on a delicious sweet treat while enjoying the magical ambiance all around you.

Hours & Admission

November 18 – December 31, 2022
Gates Open: 9 am – 11 pm | Stores Open: 12 pm – 8 pm | Restaurants Open: 12 pm – 11 pm | Free Admission
Address: 28 Bathurst St, Toronto

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Evergreen’s Winter Market

Evergreen Brick Works is one of those Toronto landmarks we all have fond memories of since it hosts some of the city’s best events! The former brick-making factory along the Don River has been transformed into one of the trendiest outdoor events spaces in the city! Evergreen prides itself on building sustainable practices that enable flourishing cities of the future. This year, after some closures during 2020 and 2021, they are hosting their Festive Winter Market again. This one-day-only event features everything from a delicious food court, a charming skating rink to immersive hikes along their wintery trails. And, of course, lots of vendors selling sustainably produced and handmade items along with artisan and vintage items. This is the place to experience a variety of classic Canadian Christmas traditions in one spot!

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The firepits light up at night, and you can grab a winter-inspired cocktail from the bar to enjoy while relaxing in the warmth. The skating rink is open all night, and under a swath of twinkle lights, it is something out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. At 7 pm, the space comes alive with live music, so grab your loved one and hit the dance floor! While many think Evergreen Brick Works is a little out of the way for tourists to easily visit, thankfully, the Evergreen Shuttle is back! This shuttle bus really helps make the journey as seamless as possible. Simply ride the subway to Broadview Station and hop on the shuttle. It runs every 30-45 minutes from the parkette north of the subway.

Hours & Admission

December 18th | 11am-5pm & evening activities from 6pm-9pm
Free and open to the public
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto

Hopefully, these Toronto Holiday Markets are the perfect place for you to check off all the items on your Christmas list! Let me know in the comments what you’re searching for this holiday season!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post All the Best Toronto Holiday Markets you Need to Explore This Festive Season! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

For all the moaning we locals might do about the cold weather, there is something magical about that first snowfall that sparkles at night when the Christmas lights are all aglow. Celebrations during the holiday season erupt across the city. Even hidden parts of the town come alive during this festive time. From light displays to holiday art markets and other events, there seems to be no lack of things to do around Christmas time. So, if you’re lucky enough to be in T.O. during the holidays, I’ve narrowed the list down to only the best of the best of Toronto at Christmastime.

Table Of Contents

1. The Distillery Winter Village
2. Christmas at Casa Loma
3. St. Lawrence Market
4. Kringlewood
5. One-of-a-Kind Winter Show
6. Nathan Phillips Skating Rink
7. Hudson's Bay Windows
8. Black Creek Pioneer Village Christmas
9. Swedish Christmas Fair
10. Campbell House Museum Immersive 'Christmas Carol'
11. Kensington Market Lights Festival
12. Miracle Bar Toronto
13. Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market
14. Nutcracker Ballet

The Distillery Winter Village

When you visit the Distillery District during the holidays, you will feel like you are in a winter wonderland! The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most charming spots. Built in 1832, the old Gooderham and Worts Distillery has been preserved to be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The cobblestone streets and restored Victorian Industrial buildings have been transformed into a pedestrian-only neighbourhood with amazing restaurants, cozy bars and unique boutiques. 

And there is no better time to visit the Distillery District than at Christmastime when the entire area is converted into the Distillery Winter Village. The streets are transformed with millions of twinkle lights and Christmas baubles. Wooden market stalls pop up, and the entire place feels like a European Christmas Market in downtown Toronto. It’s a great spot to do some holiday shopping, listen to carollers wandering down candlelit alleys and just soak up the gorgeous architecture while sipping on a warm hot chocolate!

Dates & Tickets

The market opens on November 17th, and the event’s last day is December 31st.

Tickets are required on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays after 4:00 PM and December 27-31 after 4:00 PM. At all other times, access is free of charge and tickets are not required. Your ticket time window indicates what time you can enter the distillery. But there is no limit to your visit duration. 

The market is always packed on the weekend after 4 PM, hence the requirement for ticketing so they can control crowd levels. If you can go during the week, this will be your best chance to visit when it’s less busy. I always advise going during the week if you can.

Tickets are $11 + HST each. Kids 9 and under are FREE of charge.

Christmas at Casa Loma

One thing you might not expect to find in the middle of Toronto is a castle! But here it is, Casa Loma! Ok, it might not technically be a real castle since those need to be permanent residences for nobility or royalty. But Casa Loma has, since its inception, been colloquially called “Toronto’s Castle.” Casa Loma was built in 1911 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt. Pellatt bought up some of the most prestigious real estate in Toronto, high atop Spadina Road, looking out over the city. He wanted to design a house that resembled an old European gothic mansion. And the result was the biggest private residence ever constructed in Canada! While the exterior is definitely a marvel, the stunning interiors are just as, if not more, impressive. And today, the old residence serves as a historical monument and a popular wedding venue!

Christmas at the Castle

Visitors can explore Casa Loma’s gorgeous interiors every December and experience a palatial seasonal event. Personally, I think there is no better time to visit Casa Loma. This palace was built to host a glorious Christmas spectacle. With its soaring interior, the great hall features a 40-ft tall Christmas tree covered in the finest decorations. Celebrated Canadian interior designers from all over the country are invited to Casa Loma to decorate one room each for the holidays. Each one is as unique as the next and so interesting to see everyone’s different take on holiday decor.

If you bring the kids, you’ll be able to see Santa in his castle workshop and even talk to some of his elves. My favourite part is grabbing a cup of hot cocoa, exploring the illuminated gardens, and listening to the live music playing throughout the day. Simply magical.

Casa Loma Tickets

Ticket prices start at $30 and vary throughout the week. The best advice is to book your tickets in advance as certain busy times will sell out.

St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is one of the most popular foodie destinations in Toronto. It originated as a small public market in 1803 but grew in size and eventually expanded in 1814 into the building you see today. It is Toronto’s “temple of food,” with over 120 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to meats, cheeses and other specialty items.

The market is all decked out for the holidays during the Christmas season. Bells are hung from the ceiling with care, and twinkling illuminated snowflakes decorate the brick walls outside. Since Toronto is such a multicultural city, the market is filled with seasonal treats from all over the world! It’s a fantastic place to try Christmas classics from Canada and beyond! Plus, beautiful seasonal gifts to bring home for your loved ones. The gingerbread men as always a hit with the kids!

Market Hours:

South Market is open Tuesdays – Fridays – 9am to 7pm, Saturdays – 7am to 5pm, Sundays – 10am to 5pm, and is closed on Mondays. The farmer’s market is held Saturdays from 5am to 3pm.

Kringlewood

As a Torontonian, I love to encourage more tourists to visit a local neighbourhood and simply wander the streets. This becomes even more interesting during the winter as you can admire the incredible Christmas displays certain neighbourhoods put on. It almost feels like a competition, with one house always trying to outdo another.

But with a city as large as Toronto, where do you go? I’ll tell you where Kringlewood. Better known as Inglewood Drive, this quiet, tree-lined street is located just south of St Clair Avenue East. But at Christmas time, the area transforms into ‘Kringlewood‘ by the massive inflatable Santas that decorate almost every house on the street.

It all started in 2013 when one resident put up her 14-foot inflatable Santa. People found the adorable guy a simple way to decorate for the holidays. Other houses on the street followed suit, putting up their matching Santa. Before they knew it, almost everyone on the street had one, and it was a sea of Santa. Eventually, the craze caught the eye of people from outside the neighbourhood. Visitors began coming in from all over the city to see what the fuss was about. Today it is almost a Christmastime landmark in Toronto. 

One-of-a-Kind Winter Show

The One-of-a-Kind Show is an event in Toronto that occurs throughout the year that is a big hit with locals, and tourists often miss out on it! This giant craft and artisan show happen inside the Enercare Centre, within Exhibition Place. Every year at Christmas time, over 600 artists from across the country gather to sell their handmade goods.

This is often my favourite spot to shop for Christmas presents and unique seasonal decor you won’t find anywhere else! It’s amazing how long you can spend wandering around the vendors here. Just admiring all the incredible things people can create! Sometimes it feels like going to an art gallery, but here, you can actually afford most of the art you see on the walls! 

Hours & Admission

November 24 – December 4 | Weekdays & Saturdays: 10am to 9pm | Sunday: 10am to 6pm | Late Night Hours: December 1, 10 AM-11 PM

Tickets: $23 Adults | $17 Seniors | $17 Youth 5-17

Nathan Phillips Skating Rink

Nathan Phillips Square is one of the most iconic sights in Toronto. It stands in front of our rather obtrusive-looking City Hall. But thankfully, the Skating Rink out front is always so beautifully decorated for Christmas that it makes up for that brutalist architecture. The square also features the famous “Toronto” illuminated sign that everyone needs to get their picture in front of to say they actually were here! A giant Christmas tree is erected every year outside the City Hall, making the square a lively and charming place to visit during the holidays.

During the wintertime, the skating is open to the public. There is a skate rental on the premises, so you don’t need to have your own skates to slide around the rink! Even if you’ve never skated before, the atmosphere here is so friendly, and you can go at your own pace. They even play Christmas music throughout the day, so you can really get into the Christmas spirit while on the ice!

Hours & Prices

November 27th – March 20th, 10am – 9:45pm Everyday
Rates: Children 12 and under: $10.00 | Adults: $15.00 | Helmets: $5.00 | Hats and Mitts: $5.00
Prices are based on a 2-hour rental.

Hudson’s Bay Windows

Founded in 1670, Hudson’s Bay is a Canadian shopping staple. And every year, when they unveil their holiday window displays, people always flock to see them. It’s a tradition for many to bundle up and head over to Yonge & Queen to walk around “the Bay” to see their Storybook-inspired Christmas displays. Many Torontonia makes this a Christmas tradition, bringing the family down to admire the incredible artistry. So much so that they have red velvet ropes outside the windows to better allow people to line up and see them like a museum exhibition. If you’re in the area, this is definitely a must-see piece of Toronto!

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Black Creek Pioneer Village Christmas

As a young kid, Black Creek Pioneer Village was somewhere we were dragged to on field trips. And I don’t think I ever really appreciated how cool it was. But as an adult who loves history, I love a walk back in time through this charming open-air heritage museum. At Christmas, the entire park is transformed. A sea of Christmas lights blankets the old farm. Warm, roaring fireplaces make for a cozy escape from the cold. And old-fashioned oil lamps are hung in the holly and ivy-covered windows along the dirt pathways.

Their ‘Festive Nights’ allow visitors to explore the park in the evening and enjoy live entertainment and delicious holiday treats. Discover a variety of traditional holiday tales, take part in an enchanting Yuletide Ball, or create old-fashioned handmade ornaments to take home and deck your halls. Try your hand at Victorian parlour games while sipping on a piping hot chocolate. You can even make your own old-fashioned cane to dip inside! If you long to see how the Victorians spent their holiday season in Canada, this is the place to go back and time and discover it for yourself!

Dates & Admission

December 3, 10, and 17, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
General Public $31.45 + HST per adult | $26.79 + HST per child (ages 3 to 14)

Swedish Christmas Fair

The Swedish Christmas Fair was always one of my favourite events in Toronto, and I was so sad when it was closed in 2020 and 2021. But I rejoiced when I heard it would be back in 2022! The Swedish Christmas Market is hosted by SWEA Toronto and features Swedish designs, products and folk art that will add some flair to your holiday decor. I fondly remember my trip to Stockholm at Christmas, which is one way I can feel like I’m back there while never leaving my hometown.

Be sure to stop by the cafe to get a hot plate of meatballs and lingonberry jam. There are also many events throughout the day, like a St. Lucia procession, Swedish Folk Dancers and Swedish Christmas Singers. A great place to learn more about Swedish Christmas traditions. But my favourite part? The traditional Glögg (Swedish mulled wine) is the perfect drink to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. 

Dates & Admission Information

November 19 – 20, 2022, from 11 am – 4 pm | FREE Admission.

Campbell House Museum Immersive ‘Christmas Carol’

Right off busy University Street is an old mansion hidden behind tall black iron gates. This is the Campbell House Museum, the oldest remaining house from the original Town of York, now what we call Toronto. The house was built in 1822 in high Georgian style for Chief Justice William Campbell and his wife, Hannah. The preserved interiors and furnishings remained a historical example of life in the early days of Toronto in the 19th century. During the Christmas season, the Three Ships Collective’s theatre company enters the house to perform their immersive production of ‘A Christmas Carol.‘

The show is set inside the Campbell House Museum and brings the audience into the world of Victorian England. The Campbell house was built around the same time Dickens wrote ‘A Christmas Carol,’ so it becomes the perfect backdrop for the show. The audience literally follows the crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey of redemption. The show features magic, music and even the macabre! If you think you know this story, this immersive production will transform how you see it. The shows sell out immediately, so be sure to buy your tickets as soon as they go on sale!

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Kensington Market Lights Festival

Kensington Market is one of the most popular trendy destinations for tourists to discover. This little bohemian neighbourhood is home to eclectic shops, vintage boutiques, delicious bakeries and food stalls! It is a hipster mainstay of the city, but at Christmas time, it is also home to the Kensington Market Lights Festival. The Kensington Market Lights Festival is one of Toronto’s most unique winter festivals. 

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The Kensington Market Lights Festival started in December 1988. The event was inspired by the old traditions of the fiery winter solstice. The night’s event includes an evening of festive celebrations. It all starts with a torchlight procession with a cavalcade of costumed characters. Everything from giant puppets to stiltwalkers and firebreathers. The street closes to vehicle traffic starting at 6 PM when the event begins. The festivities continue across the neighbourhood until late into the evening. There is live music, DJs, and a wide variety of food and drink (my favourite part of a visit to Kensington market!)

Miracle Bar Toronto

Popping up just for Christmas, Miracle Bar is one of Toronto’s most kitschy yet magnetic cocktail bars. The company pops up in various Canadian cities, like Montreal, where they take over a local venue and transform it into a Christmas Wonderland! There is no doubt that this place is Christmas kitschy to the extreme. But if you love the holiday as much as me, you’ll find the kitschiness absolutely charming, and walking inside makes one beam with holiday energy! 

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But it’s not just the festive decor; the drinks menu goes all out to make you feel like you’re at the North Pole! There is something for everyone from the Christmapolitan to the Snowball Ol-Fashioned and the Holiday Spiced Chai. And each drink is served in an adorable seasonal Christmas mug or cup. You can even buy the cup as a souvenir to remember a fun night with friends! In addition, to being one of the merriest places in the city, the organization donates $1 of every drink sold to Nellie’s Shelter. Nellie’s is an organization providing shelter, education and advocacy for women and children in the GTA. 

Open November 18th to December 31st

Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market

Most people who visit Toronto rarely experience the east end of the city. The downtown core definitely hogs all the attention. But in my opinion (and I suppose I’m biased since I live here), this is a sorely overlooked part of town. The east end is full of charming architecture, a laid-back atmosphere and fantastic shopping and restaurants. But to find all that east-end energy in one place, you should head to the Leslieville Christmas Pop-up Market. The market is held every weekend in December. It features 30-40 local artisans and east-end businesses selling all the best Christmas goodies and handmade items perfect for your Christmas gift list. In addition to the shopping, there is also a hot chocolate bar, a chance to meet Santa, ornament-making workshops and a children’s craft corner! Something for everyone

Location & Dates

The location has yet to be announced, check website for updates!
Dates: FREE ENTRY Dec 3-4 | Dec 10-11 | Dec 17-18

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Nutcracker Ballet

Another tradition for many families at Christmastime is to go down to Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts to see a production of ‘The Nutcracker.’ Marius Petipa‘s beloved classic Christmas story is brought to life on stage by some of the country’s best ballet dancers. It has been playing every year in Toronto since 1995, so for many kids, Christmas isn’t Christmas with going to the Nutcracker with grandma.

It is a joyfully imaginative show about a beautiful nutcracker doll who comes to life by magic on Christmas eve. The magical Nutcracker takes siblings Marie and Misha on a journey into the icy realm of the Snow Queen. And to the fantastic golden palace of the Sugar Plum Fairy! Meeting all sorts of different Christmas characters along the way. Especially if you’re travelling with children, this is a great way to spend a festive evening.

Dates & Tickets

Dates: December 10th – 31st
Ticket Prices range from $55 to $250

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I hope you enjoyed this tour of Toronto’s best Festive Christmas events, activities and sights! I love exploring the city during the holiday season, and there seems to always be something new to discover in addition to the seasonal classics. Tell me in the comments what traditional Christmas events you love to explore every year in your hometown! Or your favourite parts of Toronto during the holidays.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post 14 Amazing Festive Events You Can’t Miss in Toronto this Christmas first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Although you can simply wander the city to discover your own favourite displays, I’ve put together a little walking tour of all the best places to check out in Old Montreal. This self-guided walking tour will take you past some of the most important historical buildings in Old Montreal. So we’ve added in some interesting information about this bygone part of the city. Come with us now on our Christmas Lights Trail of Old Montreal!

McGill Street

At the corner of Victoria Square is where McGill Streets begins and heads down into the Old Town of Montreal. McGill Street is famously known as “the link between the strategic sectors of the Old Port, Old Montreal, and the Quartier international.” It is one of the most historical and, therefore, illustrious streets in Montreal. You can find such important buildings as the Canadian National Railway Company, Canadian Coast Guard, Canada Border Services Agency and a slew of popular restaurants all along this stretch of road.

During the winter season, the streets and individual buildings are all lit up for the holidays. The street is lined with these fantastic illuminated trees with a giant ball of lights bursting from the top! Enormous wreaths hang inside windows. And you can almost always see some of the most fanciful garlands made from real fir trees suspended from the doorways. The intoxicating smell drifts into your nose as you explore.

Maison Pepin

Continue along McGill Street until you reach Saint-Paul Street West. Turn left along the street until you read the famous Maison Pepin. During the wintertime, the alleyway entrance into Maison Pepin’s is transformed into their “Marché de Noël.” The old brick alley looks like something out of Harry Potter! As if you stepped into Diagon Alley when it’s all decorated for Christmas. Wreaths and Christmas tree hangs along the walls and when freshly fallen snow graces you with its presence the entire place is like a painting. Every year the team that decorated the alley brings a new element of wonder and this year their use of dried flowers is absolutely enchanting. And the entire scene is lit with a series of lights above casting down an ethereal glow on the alley.

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Miracle on Place d’Youville

Continue shortly down Saint-Paul Street West and take a short detour towards Rue Saint Pierre to the corner of Place d’Youville. Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the top, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t feel alone in here for a second. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Place Royal

Continue along old Place d’Youville to Place Royal. Place Royale has always been an important meeting place for the people of Montreal. In the early 19th century, this was where you could have found the old marketplace. Today, the square is dominated by the Old Customs House. This is an archaeological site, which is a part of the Pointe-à-Callière museum. At Christmas time, the square is filled with a series of real Christmas trees. A large illuminated tree is positioned in the centre, with a life-sized sleigh nearby for fantastic photo ops!

Rue Saint Paul

Walking up Place Royal Street towards Saint Paul street, you can continue along this long road. Saint-Laurent Boulevard divides the street where Saint Paul Street becomes Rue Saint Paul. This is because Saint-Laurent Boulevard was once the dividing line between the English part of town and the French quarter. Saint-Paul is Montreal’s oldest street and for many years served as its main thoroughfare. It was established in 1672 and named after Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, founder of Montreal. His residence was located on this street and built-in 1650. Rue Saint-Paul follows the path of the old fort which once bordered the area.

During Christmas, Saint-Paul street is perhaps the most enchanting. Massive Christmas light installations are put up on either side of the street. Creating almost a halo of light above the road. The stores on either side of the street are filled to bursting with Christmas spirit. It seems like every boutique has its own unique approach to Christmas decor and peeking your head inside is a wonderful way to warm up.

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Rue Saint Vincent / Rue Saint Anne

As we continue towards Place Jacques-Cartier, make a quick detour up Rue Saint Vincent. The street was originally built on the land owned by Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil. Jean-Vincent was a businessman and wealthy fur trader. His uncle, the Sulpician Gabriel Souart, was the first parish priest of Montreal. The street gets its name from the patron saint of Jean-Vincent Philippe de Hautmesnil.

Just a few feet along Rue Saint Vincent is the incredible alleyway Rue Saint Anne. This hidden passageway is framed by a series of old wooden branches in platers covered in twinkle lights. And as you enter the alley, you pass under a monumental archway also wrapped in lights. Creating this tunnel all aglow!

Place Jacques-Cartier

At the end of the Rue Saint-Vincent, you’ll pop out right in the middle of Place Jacques-Cartier. The square was originally built in 1723 as the royal gardens belonging to the Château Vaudreuil. The Château Vaudreuil was made for Philippe de Rigaud, Marquis de Vaudreuil but was burned down in 1803. After the destruction, the city transformed the space into a public square, known then as New Market Place.

In 1809, a large column was installed and named ‘Nelson’s Column.’ But in 1847, it was renamed in honour of Jacques Cartier, the explorer who claimed Canada for France in 1535. Today it stands as the oldest public monument in Montreal. During the Christmas season, the street is lined with lighted trees. At the top of the square is a huge light art installation. Made in the shape of large bare trees with branches resembling reindeer antlers.

Bonsecours Market

Head back down to the Rue Saint Paul-East and continue walking until you reach the Bonsecours Market. Bonsecours Market is a two-story domed public market first built in 1844. And for more than 100 years, it was the main public market in Montreal. Today, it’s home to boutique shops popular with tourists. During the Christmas season, the building’s large Doric columns are covered in Christmas lights. Highlighting the beautiful architecture of the old building.

Rue de la Commune

Take a short walk towards the water, out to Rue de la Commune. Rue de la Commune follows the original shore of the Saint Lawrence River. The buildings along the north side of the road are former commercial buildings.

From this point, you have a beautiful view along the tree line Rue de la Commune and the accompanying Christmas lights. You can also see the beautiful Old Port to the north and towering La Grande Roue de Montréal Ferris Wheel, which lights up the sky.

View of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

After getting a good look at the Port, head back up towards Rue Notre Dame Est. Make a stop at the top of the street, where you have an incredible view of Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel. The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel is one of the oldest churches in Montreal. Built in 1771 over the ruins of an earlier chapel. The church is always decorated and lit up for Christmas. With the Ferris wheel spinning overhead, this spot makes for the perfect photo opportunity.

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Vauquelin Place

Looping back towards where we started, walk along Rue Notre Dame Est to Vauquelin Place beside the old Montreal City Hall. The small square is home to the old Montreal Great Christmas tree! It is one of the most instagrammable spots in the city during the Christmas season. The square is named after captain Vauquelin who was a distinguished French naval office. A statue of the captain still dominates the square behind the fountain where the Christmas tree is located.

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Montreal Courthouse

Further down the street, you’ll come up the Montreal Courthouse. The brutalist style of architecture really stands out among the old town neo-gothic buildings. In front of the courthouse every year, they put up a large white illuminated Christmas tree. While it is just one lone Christmas tree, the way the light reflects off the glass windows of the building is really spectacular.

Places d’Armes

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and St. Sulpice Street, we find the Places d’Armes. Place d’Armes is a large public square centred around some of the most famous buildings in the city. This includes the great Notre-Dame Basilica, Saint-Sulpice Seminary, New York Life Building, Aldred Building and Bank of Montreal head office.

Originally the public square was called ‘Place de la Fabrique‘ when it was first developed in 1693, at the request of the Sulpicians. It was later renamed Place d’Armes in 1721 when it became the stage for various military events. From 1781 to 1813, it was used as a hay and wood market. Eventually, in 1836 it was redeveloped as a Victorian garden. For more than a hundred years, the square fell out of favour and eventually fell into disrepair. It wasn’t until 2009 that the city decided to renovate it at a whopping cost of $15.5 million!

During the holiday season, the square is one of the most popular places to come to see the Christmas lights. Massive illuminated stars are set up all around the square. They look like shooting stars that have fallen to earth. As you stand there the stars change colour and transform the look of the square. Just across from the square, the Banque Nationale also features a large window display on their first floor. The trio of Christmas trees and blue twinkling lights delight all the visitors passing by.

Parc Saint-Jean

Continuing along Rue Notre Dame-West, you’ll see some different lighting designs dedicated to this area of town. Along this street, the lampposts are hung with sprays of illuminated tree branches and large brightly glowing snowflakes twinkle and shine.

At the intersection of Rue Notre Dame-West and Rue Saint-Jean is a small parkette named Parc Saint-Jean. This park is decorated with the most delightful Christmas lights. It features a large illuminated arch that makes for one of the best Instagram spots in the town. And best of all, this park is pretty hidden away and usually a little very peaceful. The rest of the park is dotted with giant twinkling snowflakes, randomly dispersed all over the grounds.

This brings us to the end of our tour of Montreal Old Town’s Christmas Lights. If you are interested in continuing your tour of Montreal Christmas Lights, head on over to our blog post on Downtown Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights! Let me know in the comments where your favourite displays are in Montreal or what you’re most looking forward to seeing.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Self Guided Tour of Old Montreal’s Best Christmas Lights first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Tips for Surviving Winters in Montreal
2. Do You Need to Speak French?
3. Map of the Walking Tour
4. Christmas Light of Old Montreal
5. Old Port Skating Rink
6. Miracle Christmas Bar
7. Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site
8. Marché Place Jacques-Cartier
9. Noël Éternel
10. Notre-Dame Basilica Aura
11. Le Petit Dep
12. Centaur Theatre
13. Cité Mémoire
14. Village de Noël de Montréal
15. Luminothérapie
16. The Nutcracker
17. The Jardins d'Hiver
18. Jean-Talon Christmas Market
19. Montreal Christmas Village
20. Noël dans le Parc
21. Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal
22. Juliette et Chocolate
23. Le Darling

Tips for Surviving Winters in Montreal

Montreal is COLD. And I’m saying that as a Canadian. There is something about that Montreal winter that hits different. Perhaps it’s the wind, or maybe it’s the humidity off the river (that’s right, there is even humidity in the winter). Whatever the reason, being prepared to face the winter weather is key to having a good time in Montreal. The average temperatures in December are around -4.7°C or 23.5°F. But don’t let the set temperature fool you. Let me introduce you to a very Canadian term, the “feels like.” We don’t just look at the thermometer. You need to check the “feels like” temperature. This takes into consideration the wind strength, humidity, as well as air temperature to give you an idea of what it actually feels like outside.

Most public spaces in Montreal require you to wear your mask at all times unless you are eating and drinking. So be sure to bring with you some high-quality masks. The current recommendation, especially during the winter, is to wear disposable KN95 masks. Luckily, these come in all different colours and even various patterns just like the cloth masks. So no need to simply settle for the boring medical blue and white. Hand sanitizer is always recommended to have on hand when you cannot wash your hands right away. Especially when getting on and off public transit.

Dress in Layers

One of the best pieces of advice for winter weather dressing is to wear layers. Then if the weather warms up or cools down, you can take off or put on more layers as needed. Some essential materials to look out for are merino wool, polar fleece and cashmere. These fabrics will help keep you warm but won’t make you sweat, as the materials are more breathable. You can find quality winter items on Amazon or in any of your favourite clothing shops (Uniqlo, J. Crew, Everlane). If you’re on a budget but really want to have something cozy, check out your local thrift shops. I have found dozens of fabulous 100% wool or cashmere sweater at thrift and vintage store. Usually for less than $20 when brand new they would cost over $200 and up! Plus vintage shopping always results in some sweet styles.

Winter Coat

If you already own a winter coat, you definitely need to bring that. But if you live in a warm place like California and think a light pea coat is a satisfactory winter coat, you’re going to have to rethink that a little. The two key elements that make up a quality coat for winters in Montreal. These are the length and the filling. You really want a long coat, at least something that goes down to your knees since you’re legs can get really cold.

The other element is to ensure the coat is down feathers filled. If you want to avoid animal products in your clothes you can also look for synthetic alternatives. Look for coats containing Primaloft, Omni-Heat, Thermolite, Thermacore, or Weathered fillings. A good coat with a hood is also a great way to ensure your head and neck are warm, as they are one of the primary ways heat escapes the body in the winter.

Boots

A good set of winter boots is also a key to ensuring those toes don’t get too cold. There is nothing worse than cold feet in the winter. It turns a lovely walking tour into a real pain. Since you can’t feasibly change from boots to fancier shoes as you go in and out of cafes and restaurants throughout the day, I suggest investing in a stylish boot. Luckily, so many brands make fashionable winter boots you’ll be happy to put on when you go outside.

Sorel is my go-to boot brand, but there are many other options from UGG, Dr. Martens, Blundstone and Columbia. If you don’t think you’ll have any use for a high-quality winter boot when you get home, try going to the used-clothing store and buying a pair second-hand. Just look for those brands listed as even an older boot will still be well made enough to last for ages.

Accessories

Even if you have a hood on your coat, you’d want to be sure to bring a large scarf or neck warmer to put around your neck. The wind can be brutal and blow your hood back, so you’ll be glad to have the scarf. I also bring a few different hats with me as it feels like a fun way to change up my outfit when I’m travelling in the winter.

Warm gloves are essential; you won’t get away with just putting your hands in your pocket. Trust me, I ran into some travellers from Spain who were otherwise dressed perfectly but missing their gloves, and by the end of our walking tour, their hands were freezing. If you use your phone to take pictures, you’ll want to get a pair of gloves with touch screen capabilities. Even taking your hand out of your gloves for a few minutes to take some pictures can really cool you down, especially at night. 

If you are terrified of the cold, I suggest investing in a set of hand warmers. These are fantastic to use throughout the day when the weather really dips down low. One of my favourite options is these OCOOPA Rechargeable Hand Warmers. They are a bit of an investment, but if you live in a cold-weather climate, you can easily use them throughout the year as well. And maybe this trip is the push you need to buy them. Plus they also double as a phone charger as well! If you just need something for the length of your vacation, you can also buy a pack of disposable hand warmers. These last up to 7-hours and easily fit inside your pocket to keep those hands nice and warm.

Long Johns

To keep your legs warm, you’ll want to bring along a pair of warm long johns. These can easily fit underneath your jeans or pants, so they won’t really change the look of your outfit. Fleece Lined thermals as the best thing to get to keep you warm all day long. If you can afford a pair of cashmere thermals, you’ll be overjoyed to find how utterly cozy you’ll feel.

But the cold weather and chance of precipitation mean you’re very likely to see snow when you arrive. The falling snow is like free Christmas decorations cast upon the city. So instead of complaining about it, just dress for success!

Do You Need to Speak French?

Although French is the official language in Montreal, you absolutely can visit the city without speaking any French at all. The signage might worry you at first since it is all in French (by law). But almost everyone in the city speaks English. In fact, many people live and work here who barely can speak fluent French themselves. Unlike Quebec City, which is primarily French-speaking, 57.4% of the population can speak both English and French. That being said, it is always a good idea to learn a bit of French to use when visiting. Below are some key phrases to know if you want to try and speak a bit of the local language.

Hello: Bonjour 
Goodbye: Au revoir
Thanks: Merci 
You’re welcome: De rien 
Please: S’il vous plaît
How are you?: Comment allez-vous?
how are you?: ca va? 
Yes: Oui
No:  Non
Okay: D’accord
I don’t speak French: Je ne parle pas français
Corner Store: Dépanneur (you’ll see this everywhere, so it’s good to know what it means)
Sorry: désolé (the most Canadian word to learn)

Map of the Walking Tour

Christmas Light of Old Montreal

There is nothing better than watching the snowfall while wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. The buildings that pop up throughout the old town date back as far as the 17th century. They are some of the most interesting and eye-catching buildings anywhere in the city. You absolutely cannot visit Montreal without making a trip to visit the old town and honestly seeing it at Christmas is just that much more special!

At Christmas time, the entire neighbourhood is decorated with fantastical Christmas lights and illuminated installations. Different streets have their own particular themes, like snowflakes, branches, stars and twinkling ornaments. Add to that the multitude of incredible Christmas window displays which peek out of the shop fronts, and you are left with one of the most magical experiences in Montreal!

Although my advice is simply to let yourself wander around the historic centre if you want to check off certain areas the street below are the best places to visit if you’re looking to see all the Christmas magic.

• McGill Street below Notre Dame Street
• Marche Bonsecour
• Saint Paul Street
• St. Sulpice Street
• Rue Saint-Vincent
• Place Jacque Cartier
• Rue de la Commune (along the riverside)
• Place Royal

Old Port Skating Rink

Located along the St. Laurence River, you’ll find the beautiful Old Port of Montreal. The Port was initially built in 1611 and used by the French fur traders used it as a trading post. Today, the modern riverside is filled with museums and tourist attractions. One of the newest of these attractions is the Grande roue de Montréal or Montreal Ferris Wheel. It is now the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada and looks out over the entirety of the city. From old town you can almost always see it peaking out over the buildings.

But if you just want to savour the view of the Ferris wheel while enjoying a classical Canadian winter activity, head to the Patinoire du Vieux Port. The Patinoire du Vieux Port or Old Port Skating rink is open from 9 am to 9 pm and until 10 pm Thursday to Sunday. The rink is such a unique setting with a spectacular view of Montréal. And when it gets dark, the rink is spectacularily illuminated. Skate rentals are $10.45 per person. You can also rent a helmet for $4.35 or bring your own skates for FREE!

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Miracle Christmas Bar

Hidden away, inside the Parlement Bar on Place d’Youville is an absolute Christmas Wonderland. Miracle Bar is like Christmas turned up to eleven. From the floor to the ceiling, Christmas wrapping paper covers the entirety of the space. Lights twinkle from every corner, hundreds of stockings hang from the ceiling, and of course, Christmas music blares throughout the bar. It has the warmest, most friendly atmosphere, like walking into a warm hug. When I was in town, I was alone for a portion of the trip, and I didn’t for a second feel alone in here. Everyone was in the spirit of Christmas and happy to make new friends.

There are a myriad of Christmas-themed drinks on offer, as well as beer, cider and yes, even non-alcoholic drinks as well! They all come in a delightful array of Christmas drinkware, and if you love what you’re served in, you can even buy a mug or cup to bring home!

Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site

If you’re like me a LOVE a Victorian Christmas, you must make a stop at the Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site. Every year they hold a “Victorian Christmas” at the Cartier’s home. The Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site is a historic house-turned museum located in Old Montreal. It commemorates the life and accomplishments of Sir George-Étienne Cartier. It also includes the old Cartier family home. The Cartiers were part of the upper-middle class of 19th-century Montreal and had one of the most illustrious homes in the city.

From December 4th to the 19th, you can take a guided tour of the house and see how it would have been set up for Christmas in 1897! You can see all the “latest” trends in Christmas decorations popular in the 19th century. See what they would have had on their Christmas table and even look at the marvellous fashions women would have worn to Christmas dinner. It’s a fantastic way to learn about life in the early days of Montreal and how Christmas traditions have both changed and stayed the same after hundred-plus years.

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Marché Place Jacques-Cartier

In the centre of Old Montreal is the Marché Place Jacques-Cartier. During the Christmas season, they set up a traditional Cabane à sucre in the square. The Cabane à sucre or sugar shack is usually found in the middle of maple groves deep in the woods around Quebec. The sap for the trees is collected throughout the year and boiled down in the springtime to make the most famous of all Canadian exports; maple syrup.

But in the wintertime, the maple syrup is boiled down even further to a thick, taffy-like consistency. It’s then poured onto a thick pile of snow to be cooled down even further. A popsicle stick is placed on top of the cooling sugar and rolled up until the sugar separates from the ice. And you get yourself a little maple syrup taffy on a stick. It is wonderfully sweet and such a treat to enjoy at Christmas time!

Noël Éternel

If you want to bring home the perfect Christmas souvenir from your trip to Montreal, there is no better place to go than Noël Éternel. The boutique located in the Old Quarter has been bringing the magic of Christmas to Montreal year-round since 1995. They have the most extensive collection of diverse Christmas decorations, from German nutcrackers, Russian dolls, mouth-blown glass ornaments or hand-painted items! There is something for everyone’s perfect Christmas tree no matter what your style.

Notre-Dame Basilica Aura

Basilique Notre-Dame de Montréal or Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the most famous buildings in all of Montreal. Its steeple can be seen from all over the city, as it was once a city ordinance that no building could be built taller than the church itself. Construction began on Notre-Dame Basilica in 1672 with a small parish. Over the years, after the growth of the city, Montreal wanted to be known as the jewel of Canada. And to be such a place you needed a fantastical church. The breathtaking interiors of the church were constructed from 1785 to 1795. And the facade and vaulting were finished in 1818.

The interior of the church is what people come from far and wide to see. It is perhaps the most dramatic interiors in North America, if not the world. It features masterpieces of Gothic Revival architecture, with deep blue painted vaults covered in golden stars. The sanctuary is painted in blues, azures, reds, purples, silver, and gold. One of the most unique aspects of the church is their stained glass windows. Instead of depicting biblical scenes, the windows depict scenes from the religious history of Montreal.

Aura

Over 11 million visitors come to see the church every year, and one of the most alluring aspects of the church is that they have transformed the space from a simple place of worship to a multimedia spectacular. Aura transforms the interior of the church and highlights different aspects of the building using lights and projections. Music accompanies the entire performance. At times it feels like you are witnessing the church being built around you.

As someone who loves ecclesiastical architecture, I found the entire thing very moving. But the tickets are pricey. At $32 a person, there are plenty of people who might find this over-priced and underwhelming, especially when you can see projections for free outside with Cite Memoir. The show runs from Thursday to Saturday all year. But it does feel extra special at Christmas, even without any specific Christmas references.

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Le Petit Dep

In the centre of Old Montreal, you can’t help but notice the darling aqua exterior and gold trimmings of Le Petit Dep. “Dep” is short for “Dépanneur,” which means convenience store. But this is a convenience store unlike any other! The building is from 1822 and has been transformed into this hipster coffee shop and boutique. Retro decor and vintage furniture compliment the space, inviting you inside and wrapping you in warmth from the cold. The cafe features a myriad of different Christmas-themed desserts during the Christmas season. And the boutique turns into the absolute perfect one-stop shop for everyone on your Christmas list.

Centaur Theatre

Located in the old Canadian stock exchange building, Centaur Theatre is one of the best examples of Montreal’s vibrant art community. Every year they put on a showstopping Christmas comedy. There is something new to see every year. If you are looking for something a little different than you’re typical Christmas nativity play, then this is definitely something you should check out!

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Cité Mémoire

If you need another reason to wander the old streets of Montreal after the sun goes down, it is to see Cité Mémoire. Cité Mémoire breathes new life into the old city. The best outdoor video projections the world over are used across the old town to transform the urban landscape. Buildings and cobblestones are used as a canvas to tell the stories that have shaped the city. 24 different tableaux composed of images, dialogue, and music are projected on walls, alleys, ground, and even on the trees! Be sure to download their app that will guide you along the different routes. This allows you to explore the various projections hidden around the city with ease.

While there might not be a specific Christmas theme to this installation, it gives you a reason to get out and enjoy the outdoors after dark. And watching the projections surrounded by falling snow and twinkling Christmas lights is nevertheless a magical holiday experience.

Village de Noël de Montréal

If you’re like me and mourning the fact that you couldn’t easily make it out to the German Christmas Markets this year, the Great Christmas Market in Montreal or Village de Noël de Montréal will make your heart sing! From the end of November until the beginning of January, you can wander through a magical journey inside the Quartier des Spectacles. There are over 30 different enchanting chalets featuring both local artisans, musical entertainment and delicious food.

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Inspired by traditional Christmas markets, you can find everything here from handmade jewellery, gourmet food, and classical Christmas decorations. The Montreal cold might be bitter, but it pairs well with a mulled wine and hot chocolate. Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, the decor which surrounds the market is so beguiling it’s worth just exploring.

Luminothérapie

Also located in the Quartier des Spectacles and Place des Festivals is Luminothérapie. Luminothérapie is an interactive illuminated art exhibit. Buildings have incredible projections placed upon them, and magical sound-and-light installations are placed along the sidewalks to be interacted with by passers-by. This is the kind of Christmas magic that you’ll see being enjoyed as much by the locals as by visitors. For the locals, it is something new and exciting to see. And as the winter weather begins to creep in it makes the cold all the more enjoyable.

The Nutcracker

Every year, the Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal presents The Nutcracker throughout the month of December. This year the show is a unique take on the production featuring the Kingdom of Sweets as well as all that iconic Tchaikovsky score. The show overwhelms you with the Christmas spirit and is a wonderful way to see the artistry of the Montreal ballet.

The Jardins d’Hiver

Jardins d’Hiver, or the Winter Gardens, is a special Christmas trail located just outside the Place des Arts, on Sainte-Catherine Street between Jeanne-Mance and Saint-Urbain. The wintery pathway takes visitors along a Christmas trees-lined maze towards these little cottages displaying enchanting dioramas. It’s like exploring a magical and luminous fairy-tale. The trail ends with a Grand Christmas tree perfect for your holiday photos.

Jean-Talon Christmas Market

The Jean-Talon Market is a huge farmer’s market in the Little Italy neighbourhood of Montreal. The market was opened to the public in 1933 and is over two city blocks long! The market is open year-round, even during Montreal’s frigid winters. As of last year, they opened their very first Christmas Market. The market has a focus on local cuisine! This market is a festive culinary experience that you absolutely cannot miss! Everything from chocolate to maple syrup and pastries are overflowing inside the darling wooden huts located inside the market building. Twinkle lights hang from the ceiling and blue spruce and fir trees make the entire room smell like Christmas!

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Montreal Christmas Village

Located just outside the Old Town, in Atwater Place du Marché, you can walk around Montreal’s Christmas Village. The event is held from the end of November to the end of December. This marvellous public square is decorated for the holidays with local food vendors, artisan market stalls, live music and great activities for the kids. The little kiosks are all set up inside a wooden hut, reminiscent of old European Christmas markets.

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A Christmas tree farmer sells Christmas trees inside the market to the locals here, so it always smells divine! Sitting beside the Christmas trees enjoying a hot cup of cocoa is a wonderful way to relax.

Noël dans le Parc

Noël dans le Parc, or Christmas in the Park, is an event held along Mont-Royal Avenue and Cartier Street in the Parc des compagnons de Saint-Laurent. Festivities run on the weekends from 2 pm to 5 pm during November and December. The Christmas celebrations include wonderful musical entertainment, perfect for those who love to sing carols. Grab a glass of warm mulled wine or hot chocolate and sit to enjoy the wonderful musical and artistic programming. This is very much a community-driven event, so you’ll find lots of locals with their families coming out to enjoy the outdoor party.

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Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal

Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Montreal. But at Christmas time, there is an even better reason to make your way out here. Inside the church is their museum collection featuring their various famous “Crèches.” A Crèche is a model or tableau representing the scene of Jesus Christ’s birth, usually displayed in homes or public places at Christmas. We also call these “Nativity Scenes.” The museum collections feature two of the church’s historic large outdoor Nativity Scenes.

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But even more interesting, is the museum’s collection entitled ‘A World in a Crèche.’ This part of the museum features nearly one hundred Nativity Scenes from as many countries. Viewing all these different scenes, you can study the different ways each country depicts the Nativity scenes and how different artists make their unique impression on the classical display.

Juliette et Chocolate

One of my personal favourite places to go in Montreal is Juliette et Chocolate. This is place has immense nostalgia for me as I would frequent it with my dad when he lived in Montreal. Juliette et Chocolate is a chocolate lover’s paradise! Their cafe was originally just a little chocolate shop in Quebec City but as soon as it opened, it was a complete hit with the locals! They opened their first location in Montreal and it was just as big a success. Today, there are three different locations spread across the city. The shop sells all kinds of decadent desserts. From intensely chocolate brownies to rich fondues, sweet crepes and artful chocolates and pastries!

Hot Chocolate

But during the Christmas season, there is one main reason to come to Juliette et Chocolate, which is for their hot chocolate! They have over eight different flavours, which are sure to warm your body and soul. The favourite that keeps me coming back year after year is their Grandma’s style hot cocoa. The velvety hot chocolate is so thick and rich it almost feels like you’re drinking a chocolate fondu! You can even choose the type of chocolate for your drink; 70% Dark, 55% Dark, 33% Milk, or White!

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And don’t worry, if you’re vegan, they even have a few vegan options made with an almond beverage. For a splurge, go for their smoked campfire hot chocolate (which costs a whopping $14.59 CAD!) This chocolatey campfire experience comes with their velvety hot chocolate smoked with wood chips and served with our brownie and toasted marshmallow skewer. If you’re looking for the best Christmas gift to bring home, they have a wide selection of amazing Christmas-themed chocolates and even produce their own advent calendars.

Le Darling

Darling café and bar are some of the enchanting settings for a Christmas dinner or nightcap. Hidden away inside a dark window front along Blvd St-Laurent, you step inside and are immediately overwhelmed by the whimsical decor within. The interior designers responsible for the fantastic interiors were inspired by colours and textures from steampunk with a modern, sassy twist. Decorating the walls are eclectic items like dolls inside bell jars, teacups, mannequins and carnival regalia. But during the Christmas season, they go ALL OUT on Christmas decorations with baubles hanging from every single surface and twinkling lights casting a magical warm glow all around the room.

Wherever you find yourself in this city, you are bound to discover the magic of Christmas. From random choirs roaming the streets to Christmas light displays outside family homes, there is so much to see and do in this city outside of the list I’ve curated for you here. Let me know in the comments what amazing discoveries you make on your next trip to Montreal!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Your Guide to Spending the Best Christmas Holiday in Montreal [UPDATED 2023] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

When planning my Christmas trip to Stockholm, I initially didn’t think about Christmas Holiday closures. When you plan a dream trip, you don’t typically think about all that could go wrong or might not happen. But after booking all my flights, I thought, “Hmm, I wonder if I should be worried about anything being closed while I’m there.” Well, it turns out there was a lot that was going to close while I was there but nothing that a little planning couldn’t fix! All it took was plotting a careful schedule to ensure that everything I wanted to fit into the trip was scheduled on the days when things were open. 

If you’re planning a Christmas trip to Stockholm, here is how to plan your activities perfectly to ensure you see everything your festive little heart desires! I’ve laid out a sample itinerary for you, so you know what you need to visit on which day to make it there before it closes for the holidays. It’s designed as a holiday set in the week leading up to Christmas Day. But you can quickly shift it around to fit your particular schedule.

Guide to Christmas in Stockholm

1. The Essentials
2. What about Daylight?
3. Where to Stay?
4. Public Transit
5. Sample Itinerary
6. December 19th
7. December 20th
8. December 21st
9. December 22nd
10. December 23rd
11. December 24th
12. December 25th

The Essentials

Weather

If you are picturing snow-capped rooftops on your Christmas trip to Stockholm, you might want to adjust your thinking. Although Stockholm does get snow, having a large snowfall around Christmas is a rarity. If you want to see some snow, it’s easy enough to jump on a train and head north toward the colder weather.

Despite the lack of snow, it does get pretty cold in Stockholm in December. The average high is 1°C, but the low is -3°C. Add the wind chill off the water, and without proper clothes, you can be freezing. But, embrace the Nordic saying of “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!” I was sure to bring lots of thermals for layering under my clothes. I also got warm wool sweaters, waterproof boots and an excellent selection of cute hats and gloves, making dressing for the cold all the more fun!

What about Daylight?

Being located so far north, Sweden gets much less sunlight in December than you might be used to in your own country. Even here in Toronto, it gets dark around 5 pm but in Stockholm, expect it to get dark as early as 2 pm! If you want to see something specific during the day, make sure you plan this into your schedule. But the darkness means you’ll be able to enjoy all those Christmas lights almost all day long!

Where to Stay?

NOFO Hotel, Soderlam

NOFO was recommended to me by my friend who lives in Stockholm, as it’s where all his guests choose to stay time and time again. It is located in the hip neighbourhood of Södermalm. The streets of Södermalm are where you can find the most relaxing cafes, trendy bars, and hipster vintage shops. The hotel itself is one of the coolest boutique hotels I’ve ever stayed in. There is a myriad of different room themes and styles, and the breakfast buffet included in your stay is beyond incredible! I almost always opt for eating out of the hotel to experience more local restaurants and cafes, but every morning there was no way I would pass it up!

Collector’s Lady Hamilton, Gamla Stan

Although the Gamla Stan (Old Town) is pretty touristy and most businesses shut down after 5 pm, having your room located inside such a picturesque place is a real treat at Christmastime. That said, make sure you splurge on a room with a view. Collector’s Lady Hamilton Hotel is located in a 15th-century building next to the Royal Palace. The Lady Hamilton Hotel has a 13th-century cellar, which is now used as a plunge pool! Throughout the hotel, you’ll find antique furniture, old paintings and crystal chandeliers, which make you feel like you’re staying inside a piece of Stockholm’s history. 

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Berns Hotel, Norrmalm

Norrmalm is another popular neighbourhood to put your head down as its located in the heart of mainland Stockholm. Norrmalm is probably the most central place to stay to get to everything you’ll want to see. Berns Hotel is one of those luxurious historic hotels that makes you feel like you’re immediately on holiday upon walking in the door! The hotel’s beautiful twinkle light covered exterior looks out over Berzelii Park and the Baltic Sea. The hotel opened in 1863 and has one of the most majestic interiors in the city. They even have an unforgettable holiday experience package at Berns which includes a full Christmas dinner, overnight stay and specialty breakfast. So if you feel like you might be homesick for Christmas, at Berns you’ll never miss a festive beat!

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Public Transit

Since most travellers use public transit as their main mode of getting around, I thought it essential to list out any holiday changes to their schedule.

Metro

Dec. 23rd: Regular Sunday schedule (trains run from 5:00 am to 3:00 am)
Dec. 24th | Christmas Eve: The metro blue line runs from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm every 10 minutes, the green and red run every 15 minutes. From 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, it runs every 30 minutes. After 7:00 pm there is no underground service.
Dec. 25th | Christmas Day: After 6:00 am, the system resumes Sunday schedule service.  
Dec. 26th: Regular Sunday schedule 
Dec. 27th: Resume regular service

Buses

During the week of Christmas, many buses are still running but on adjusted schedules. Since there are so many different routes, it’s best to check online in advance for any specific route you are planning on taking. But in general, expect buses to be running on an adjusted schedule, which means longer wait times.

Sample Itinerary

December 19th

Skansen Christmas Market

The Christmas market in Skansen’s open-air museum is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 26th until December 19th. So make sure you plan accordingly to ensure you arrive in Stockholm in time to visit the Skansen Christmas Market. If you arrived earlier in the month, you could easily visit this anytime. But if you have your heart set on seeing the Skansen Christmas Market (which I did), I would make this your first stop. While the local markets are great in town, the Skansen Christmas market is the most comprehensive and the largest! uy everything from handicrafts and design to sweets, home-made candles and secret Christmas presents. 

If you aren’t interested in Christmas Market, there is no need to rush over here as Skansen is open 365 days a year. But trust me, you won’t regret making this your first stop, as the atmosphere is magical. I would schedule an entire day at Skansen as there is SO MUCH to see and do! Way more than just the Christmas Market. You can visit all the historic buildings and learn about Sweden’s Christmas traditions. My favourite thing to do is end the evening inside the Solliden’s dining room, where you can enjoy a fancy Christmas smorgasbord and buffet. Great way to sample lots of different classic Swedish Christmas dishes.

December 20th

Stortorget Julmarknad

Located in the heart of Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan is the Stortorget Julmarknad. The Stortorget Julmarket is Sweden’s oldest Christmas market. This market, while small, carries everything you’d want from a Christmas Market. From cured meat to glogg, crispbread, handmade ornaments, straw Christmas goats, gingerbread, knitting and more!

The market runs from November 19th to December 23rd and is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. I find going a few days before Christmas Day feels the most enchanting but not as chaotic and busy as the last day of the market.

Explore the Christmas Windows of Gamla Stan

After touring the marketplace, spend the rest of the evening walking up and down the historic streets of Gamla Stan. Since Stockholm was spared any destruction during WWII, this old town is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval quarters. At Christmas time, the storefront and shops along this touristy part of the city are decked out to the nines! Swags of fresh evergreens cover the doorways, Christmas lights glimmer against the icy cobblestones and little pink-faced gnomes in Christmas hats poke their heads out from all corners of the shop windows.

Sample some Glögg

Glögg is the traditional Swedish Christmas drink which all Swedes imbibe come the holiday season. It is sold everywhere, but one of the best ways to enjoy it is outside. It’s the perfect thing to warm up from the cold with! During Christmas-time, the streets are filled with Glögg vendors. Almost every single cafe also sells its own version of the traditional drink. I loved trying one every time it got cold and made a list of my favourite places to get glögg. Create your rating system for a fun little game to play as you wander around the city!

December 21st

Start your Day with a Sweet Treat!

Pepperkakor is the Swedish version of gingerbread and is one of the most iconic baked goods to enjoy at Christmastime. The thin cookies were eaten in Sweden as early as the 1300s. But it wasn’t until the 1800s that it began to be associated with Christmas. You can find these delicious desserts made with gourmet ingredients in specialty cafes, sample traditional homebaked treats in the Christmas markets or buy yourself an entire box inside the charming tins found on every shelf in the grocery store!

Another popular pastry sold during the holidays Saffron buns or lussekatters. These “s” shaped buns are a beautiful golden treat flavoured with saffron and currants. They are called ‘lussekatter‘ or ‘Lucia cats’ as the shape resembles a cat’s tail. These desserts can be found in everything from cafes to convenience or grocery stores.

My favourite Swedish Christmas treats are Kanelbullens or Cinnamon Rolls. They are a very popular thing for Swedes to bake on Christmas morning. They are different from cinnamon buns I’ve had before, with a glossy exterior and big sugar crystals dusted on top! My favourite place to get them is the iconic Vete Katten cafe.

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Walk the Christmas Lights Map

Spread across the city of Stockholm, there are over 40 streets and squares which have been festively decorated for the Holiday season. The stunning decorations are themed around Swedish Christmas traditions and iconography. Everything from moose, deer, mistletoe and stars seems to float around above your head, lighting up the dark days in even darker nights. I have a great guided tour of the city lights to follow-along, which takes you through the city’s best-decorated areas. It’s a fun and festive way to enjoy the streets of Stockholm.

Skeppsbron Waterfront Christmas Tree

Finish your Christmas lights tour with a visit to the Skeppsbron Waterfront to see the largest ‘real’ Christmas tree in the world. Standing 38 metres high, the Christmas tree on Skeppsbron in Old Town is the world’s biggest. It is covered with approximately 5,000 lights and is topped with a four-metre large star!

Enjoy the Julbord

The Swedish ‘Julbord‘ or Christmas feast is one of the most important family traditions. Pretty much all Swede have a Julbord on Christmas Eve. I have a whole post all about the Julbord which you can read to find out what to expect! But just because you might not know anyone who might invite you in for a feast doesn’t mean you can’t sample it for yourself. Historic restaurants like Operakällaren have their Julbord menus for both tourists and locals alike to try! It’s a great opportunity to feast on so many uniquely Swedish foods while also dining in one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city.

December 22nd

ArkDes Gingerbread Houses 

ArkDes on Skeppsholmen island is the national museum for architecture and design. Every year the museum features one of the most interesting Christmas exhibitions. It hosts a huge Gingerbread House competition where adults, children and professionals alike construct amazing creations all out of gingerbread. Since admission is free, it’s super easy to come in and enjoy simply the exhibition without feeling like you need to spend the whole day inside to justify the admission price.

Walking into the room filled with all the submissions, you are overwhelmed by the sweet, intoxicating smell of Christmas gingerbread. Every year there is a theme for the gingerbread houses, making a yearly visit interesting every time.

Centralbadet

If you’re feeling a bit chilly or tired from the cold, one of the best places to warm up is inside Stockholm’s Centralbadet. Centralbadet is a bathhouse located in the centre of Stockholm, yet almost hidden away. This magical place is tucked in off one of the city’s busiest shopping streets inside a large art nouveau building. Although there is nothing specifically Christmassy about this activity, the holiday season and your vacation should be about relaxing! And there is no better place to relax and get a massage than here. You can swim in the Roman pool, soak in the warm thermal baths and sweat out all the stress inside the Nordic saunas! It’s a great way to experience a very Scandinavian way of life.

Get a Bottle of Julmust

While you’re out and about, be sure to stop into a convenience store to pick up a bottle of Julmust. Julmust is a fizzy drink that tastes a little bit like root beer. The drink is ONLY available at Christmas, and Swedes go crazy for it as it has become the taste of Christmas. The drink is so popular in December that it regularly outsells Coca-Cola products as soon as it hits the shelves!

December 23rd

Christmas Cruise

One of the best ways to take in the sights of Stockholm’s waterfront is on a boat. And you might be wondering, “a boat in the winter?” And while indeed the weather might be a lot colder than a picturesque summer’s days it’s an experience not to be missed. The boats which run these cruises are set up to provide their visitors with the most comfortable experience even in the winter months. There is something so magical about seeing the (possibly) snow or frost-covered trees and buildings as you glide along the icy waters. To beat the cold they provide huge fur blankets and warm cups of glogg or hot chocolate.

There are buffets onboard many of these cruises, which provide you with another opportunity to sample a Swedish Julbord. The Christmas smorgasbord features classics like reindeer and elk meat, Swedish sausages, crispbread, smoked herring and salmon and cheese. I would recommend taking the early afternoon cruise. This means you have enough time to enjoy a bit of daylight but also admire the beauty of the city at night. The cruise lasts about three hours. Prices are around SEK 795 per person ($90 USD). Check the website for more details.

December 24th

Live Advent Calendar

Every year the windows around the main square in Gamla Stan are home to an extraordinary Christmas tradition; the Live Advent Calendar. Every day until Christmas Eve, a window around the square opens and out pops a live performer. For 15 minutes, a performance is given by either an individual or a group. This would be a reading of a Christmas story, a speech or a song. Check the website for the schedule of when the windows will each be opened.

While you are welcome to visit the Live Advent Calendar any day leading up to December 24th, I decided to visit on Christmas Ever Day. And I found it to be the most lovely occasion. Many locals were there to celebrate the last day of the calendar, and it felt like a very communal celebration. Everyone sang along to the music, and even though it was all in Swedish, I still loved listening. There were speeches thanking the volunteers, so much laughter and I immensely enjoyed the beautiful music. Even though the Christmas market was closed on the 24th, they still opened the Glogg stalls. This way everyone could enjoy a glass of warm glogg while the Christmas celebrations continued.

Nordic Museum

After hearing the lovely music of the Advent Calendar, head over to the Nordic Museum. The Nordic Museum is one of the only museums still open on the 24th. It stays open to host one of the best Christmas parties in the city open to the public. This is great for families travelling who don’t have anywhere to celebrate at home or for tourists like us! They host a farandole at around noon. This is an open-chain community dance, around the giant Christmas tree in the center of the great hall. You can also meet Tomte, the Swedish Christmas Santa and get one of the best Christmas pictures!

Their restaurant is open, and there you can taste some of the most fabulous Nordic Christmas food. I was so surprised by how good the food was, considering it was set up like a cafeteria. But even the tables where you can eat are decorated for Christmas, and the atmosphere is so enchanting.

The museum has a great exhibition upstairs all about Swedish Traditions. The collection goes through the calendar year and delves into all the different holidays and their origins in both religion and folklore. The best part to visit during this time of year is obviously the Christmas displays. These feature some fantastic pieces of ephemera from Christmases past. It even has a large scale replica of the first Swedish Christmas tree.

Last Chance for Food!

Many grocery stores and restaurants are closed on December 25th. While celebrations are taking place on Christmas Eve, Christmas day is meant for rest. As such, the entire city feels like it has gone to sleep. While some restaurants remain open on the 25th, they are few and far between. If you have your mind set on something it’s best to research in advance to see if that place is open. So you might want to plan to do a big grocery shop in advance to get some ingredients for at-home meals and picnic lunches. Plus, this gives you an excuse to wander the Christmas themed aisles of the grocery store. I honestly love visiting grocery stores when travelling. It’s such an excellent opportunity to find local things to eat and drink that are simple and everyday foods.

When shopping for my Christmas Day meals, I bought a small pre-packaged charcuterie board, bread and jam (the jam in Sweden is bonkers amazing), some interesting drinks I’d never seen before, lots of Swedish snacks, and a few sandwiches, pastries and salads. And, of course, a bottle of glogg and a bottle of Yulemust. These are easy to carry around and have on hand throughout in case you don’t find an open restaurant.

December 25th

Find the City’s Best Views

Since almost everything is closed on the 25th, I found that it was the perfect day to schedule a few walks to some of the city’s best viewpoints! The highest natural point in central Stockholm is Skinnarviksberget. From this rocky outcrop, you can see all across the city to Kungsholmen, Gamla Stan, the Stockholm City Hall, and more. On the opposite side of the town, Fjällgatan, located on the edge of a cliff, provides a stunning view from the east. Throughout this area of town, you’ll pass well-preserved buildings from the 1700s, making it one of the most historical walks to take as well.

Abba Museum

If you are interested in learning more about the Swedish Pop Culture Icons ABBA, you need to pay a visit to the ABBA Museum! It might seem a strange way to spend Christmas Day, but the ABBA museum is one of the few open on Christmas day, and honestly, this place is so much fun; it’s pretty much the perfect place to be to enjoy a spirited afternoon. The ABBA Museum is much more than a museum stuffed with original costumes, gold records, and other memorabilia. With this experience, you can pretend to be on stage with ABBA, record at the Polar Studio, and dress up like the group’s members.

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Ice Skating

Another popular Christmas Day activity is to go ice skating. The Kungstradgarden ice rink and the Vasaparken ice rink are two of the best places to visit in the city. They are each open from around midday to later into the evening. Skating is free, but if you need skate rentals, there is an extra charge. These rinks are gorgeously lit with festive Christmas lights and even play charming music to enjoy as you glide along.

One Last Fika…

Finish your evening off by stopping in at a cafe to enjoy on last Fika. Fika in Swedish means “to have a cup of coffee and a snack with a friend.” It’s absolutely built into the fabric of Swedish daily life. They embrace the idea of taking time to better your relationships while enjoying something scrumptious. I found that there were many cafes still open on Christmas Day despite restaurants being closed. This is how important Fika is, it is one of the only things to stay open! So, keep your eyes peeled and you’re bound to find someplace to rest your feet. It is the perfect way to stop, and reflect back on all the memories from your trip. Take out your notebook and jot down your favourite things you did or saw along the way. Trust me, you’ll treasure taking that time to cement those memories!

I hope this little itinerary was helpful, and it provides a general guide to your first Christmas holiday in Stockholm! The schedule is pretty open, so you can plot any other activities you are excited to do while visiting this fantastic city. Many of the popular museums will remain open until around the 22nd or 23rd. So you can easily fit them in as well, but most don’t have any particular exhibition dedicated to Christmas. I would recommend the VASA museum or Swedish History Museum if it’s your first time in the country. But don’t overpack the schedule as the magic of Christmas is one best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever spent a Christmas away from home and where you most enjoyed travelling!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Discover the Ultimate Guide to a Magical Christmas in Stockholm, Complete Included Itinerary [UPDATED 2022] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

As someone who hates the cold, I was worried the chilly weather would keep me from seeing everything. But what surprised me most was that with proper preparations, I actually enjoyed it. The look of the icy water, snow-topped hillsides and twinkling Christmas lights against the midnight blue sky. I found my time there in the winter, more enjoyable than in the summer! Maybe just because it was so different. There are a myriad of reasons to travel during the wintertime to these snowy destinations. Hopefully, this list inspires you to get out and enjoy the world, north of the equator in the winter months.

Table Of Contents

1. #1 Embrace "hygge"
2. #2 Deals on Airfare!
3. #3 Try out the Slopes
4. #4 Christmas Markets!
5. #5 Winter Comfort Food
6. #6 Coffee Culture
7. #7 Museums are the Perfect Escape from the Cold
8. #8 See the Northern Lights
9. #9 Staying inside an Ice Hotel
10. #10 Warm up in a Sauna
11. Here are some TIPS to ensure you have the most fantastic winter vacation!

#1 Embrace “hygge”

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is a Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness. It conveys the feeling of wellness and contentment. Hygge is so crucial to the people of Scandinavia that it is considered “a defining feature of our cultural identity,” according to Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute. These countries who practice hygge means that everywhere you go; you’ll find burning candles, cozy fireplaces, delicious hot coffee or chocolate and rich homemade sweets. Hygge makes every interior you find one of the most welcoming and warm places in the world!

But hygge is not just about hybernating. It is also about enjoying long walks outside. Despite the cold weather, you’ll find parks decked out in decorations, beautiful skating rinks and a feeling of a country that embraces the winter. Welcome the spirit of hygge into your heart during this season, and you’re bound to have a wonderful time.

#2 Deals on Airfare!

Winter is by far the cheapest season for travel in Europe. From early December to about mid-March, you’ll find flights around Europe super inexpensive. This time of year people are usually looking to escape to warm-weather destinations. Keep in mind you should always be booking these trips three months in advance as that is when the flight prices are usually the cheapest, outside of any last-minute sales. Travel during the week of Christmas is at its peak since families commute home during this time, so avoid going around those days if possible. If you’re worried about not being able to see Christmas Markets because the Christmas week is expensive to travel, fear not! Christmas Market opens as early as the last week of November.

#3 Try out the Slopes

If you’re someone who loves to hit the slopes, winter isn’t a downer but instead your favourite season! Just a short train ride into the countryside you’ll find ski resorts like Hemsedal, Riksgransen, Are Duved, Ruka, Vemdalen and Lillehammer. They are easily accessible from any major city in Scandinavia. If you don’t want to stay at the resort, the towns around these ski hills are full of alternative options for every budget. Also, if skiing isn’t your bag, many of these resorts also have toboggan or snow tubing hills. This allows you to enjoy the scenery and mountain top hot chocolates without needing an ounce of skill!

#4 Christmas Markets!

There is just something about a European Christmas market that gives me all those warm and fuzzy feelings. The twinkle lights on the trees, the smell of mulled wine floating through the air and freshly baked breads ready to warm your hands. If you’re a couple, there is something truly romantic about an evening stroll under the lights of the market. Most of the big cities have multiple Christmas Markets you can visit while you’re there. These places are not only beautiful but also great spots where you can find traditional handicrafts. You can also sample some of their famous Christmas foods.

If you’re looking for something outside the big cities, visit the Christmas Market in Lapland, which is the home of Santa Claus! As such, this town goes all out at Christmas time. Tivoli Park in Copenhagen is transformed during the holiday season into a real-life fairytale book. They even perform the traditional Christmas ballet The Nutcracker on stage inside the park, which makes for the ideal Christmas evening.

#5 Winter Comfort Food

Scandinavian foods are meant to be enjoyed in the winter. This is a country that knows how to make a warm and cozy meal. Almost all of their food is comfort food. Smørrebrød, rye bread, meatballs, stewed reindeer, pancakes and waffles are all the best things to enjoy in the winter. The portions are huge, as are the flavours. After you’re finished eating you’ll be ready to take on a long walk in the winter cold, without feeling a thing as you’ll be warmed from the inside out!

#6 Coffee Culture

Did you know that Scandinavia is at the top of the list of the most coffee-consuming countries? There is a good reason for this aside from just that their coffee is delicious. Coffee in Scandinavia is more than just a to-go cup you grab alone on your way to work. Having coffee is a chance to get away from the daily grind and catch up with friends. In Sweden, they call this Fika. Fika in Swedish means “to have a cup of coffee and a snack with a friend.” It’s absolutely built into the fabric of their daily life. They embrace the idea of bettering relationships while enjoying something scrumptious.

While other Scandinavian countries don’t have that words, the concept still remains. The prevalence of this coffee culture means there is an abundance of fantastic coffee shops to stop into on your trip to warm up while you enjoy the city. Take this time to step back for a minute, stop rushing around, enjoy the moment and reflect on your adventures.

#7 Museums are the Perfect Escape from the Cold

If you’re feeling particularly chilly, museums and art galleries are the best places to pop into to escape the cold. And what’s more, in Scandinavia, most state-run museums are free of charge to enter. Unfortunately, in countries like Denmark, recent government cuts have changed these policies. However, many of those museums are still open on certain days of the week for free. In Sweden, there are over 15 different museums and galleries which you can still enter free of charge everyday of the week! They make the perfect place to hide away from the cold without worrying too much about your budget.

I went to a myriad of different museums, some of which I didn’t even know anything about before I went. Still, since they were free, I didn’t have anything to lose. I could wander around and look at what interested me and simply head out once I finished. There was no pressure to make a whole day out of it since I didn’t pay a huge admission fee, which would have made me feel more inclined to “make it worth it.” It was the ideal place to get warm and see something exciting and new while I was at it.

#8 See the Northern Lights

Scandinavia is by far the best place to see the Aurora Borealis. The high latitude in Finland, Sweden and Norway makes these countries the best place for spotting those iconic green and blue waves in the sky. And winter (September to March) is the only time you can reliably spot them! Alta in Norway is probably the most famous city to travel to see them but other popular destinations are Abisko National Park and Porjus in Sweden, Senja in Norway and many cities in Finnish Lapland. Just remember you need to go far north for this, don’t think your visit to Oslo will allow you to see the lights!

#9 Staying inside an Ice Hotel

Ice hotels are one of the trendiest new things to come out of winters in Scandinavia! These luxury creations are somewhat of a novelty but combine cozy, fireplace lit interiors with icy architecture. The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi Sweden was the first hotel in the world to be built out of ice. Every springtime, the ice melts, and come the next winter, a new design is created to form a brand new looking hotel. So every year, there is something unique to experience. Despite being at least -10°, you’ll be nice and cozy with the special thermal PJs, and cold weather insulated sleeping bag you’re given. These will keep you snug all night long while enjoying the once-in-a-lifetime views.

There are plenty of other Ice hotels around Scandinavia from The Lapland Hotel’s Snow Village in Finland to The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta Norway. All of these locations also have on-site activities like dog-sledding, an ice bar or ice church and even snow sculptures to see in ice galleries. It’s truly something you just can’t experience anywhere, or anytime other than in the winter in Scandinavia!

#10 Warm up in a Sauna

All over Scandinavia, you’ll find strangers getting together, in a small, hot spaces to indulge in sauna . Saunas originated in Finland, and the word “sauna” comes from the Finnish word for bathhouse. Pits dug into the ground were the first saunas. Stones were added atop a burning fire to fit the pit. Water was then thrown on top of the rocks to produce steam. There have been sauna pits discovered as far back as 4000 B.C.E in Finland. It is a commonly shared belief in the Nordic countries that saunas relax muscles, soothe pain, releases endorphins, increases blood circulation, flush toxins, relieve stress, help fight illness, cleanse the skin, burn calories and also provides a social space to enjoy with friends. It’s basically thought to be a cure-all for everything.

While there are some small differences between sauna culture in the different Scandinavian countries, overall, the experience is the same. While some same-sex saunas are clothing optional, in most big cities, you can find tourist-friendly options where bathing suits are worn. This is great if you feel like you might be uncomfortable being naked around strangers. But once you take the plunge, the feeling of freedom is pretty unparalleled.

Cold Dips

Speaking of taking the plunge, some saunas also offers a dip into cold, almost freezing water. This could be just a cold bath or some spots located near bodies of water offer access right into the frozen sea. The dramatic plunge into cold water from the hot sauna is thought to increase the blood flow in the body and help increase all those other benefits we spoke of before. While some might be scared to try it, I vote to give it a go. It sure might feel unpleasant at first, but man does it wake your body up in a way that is indescribable and entirely worth it!

Here are some TIPS to ensure you have the most fantastic winter vacation!

Dress for Success

Making sure you bring the right clothing is key to ensuring you are in the right mood throughout the day. There is nothing worse than being freezing cold to ruin a perfectly lovely experience. I was terrified of this exact scenario when I was planning for my trip, so I made sure to buy warm thermals to wear to help keep that heat in. In addition to this, I bought a few 100% wool sweaters, which were perfect for keeping the heat in without overheating and making me sweat. Wool sweaters can be purchased brand new online, but also you can find them at your local thrift shop for a 10th of the price of a new one! I found some with the most amazing designs, so don’t be afraid to go digging as you might find something amazing!

Hours are odd

Although I disagree with Rick Steves about not visiting Scandinavia during the Winter, I love this quote from him, “Scandinavia’s metabolism slows down like a hibernating bear’s, and many sights and accommodations are open on a limited schedule (especially in remote fjord towns).” This is something to be aware of. Outside of the official government holidays around Christmas, I never found anything to be altogether closed. But various attractions did run on shorter winter hours. Definitely nothing to cancel your trip over just something to be aware of and plan around.

Christmas Holidays

If you’re planning on staying over the Christmas Holidays, December 24th and 25th specifically, you will want to check to see what’s open on those particular days. While I heard EVERYTHING would be closed in Sweden on Christmas day, I actually found a few museums which were still open and holding special events. I also managed to find some once a year community events to take part in while I was there that made me feel like celebrating with a huge group of new friends. So many people might tell you there will be nothing to do, but trust me, I found a bunch of things to do, you just need to dig a little bit. If you know a particular museum will be open on those government holidays, make note of that and save that activity for those days when lots of other things might be closed.

Christmas Day

I also found that attending a church service on Christmas Day was a great experience. There were plenty of services which were non-denominational if you want to enjoy the spirit of the holiday but might not identify with a particular denomination. While there are some restaurants still open on these days, I did find that the majority were closed so you might want to hit up a grocery store on the 23rd to grab some easy to make meals. If you don’t have a kitchen, you can always buy cheese and meats, which you can make into an in-hotel-room charcuterie dinner. A lot of fast food restaurants remain open on those holidays as well so that’s always a last-ditch option.

Daylight is Precious

In Scandinavia, there are only a few hours of “daylight” in the winter, and depending on how far north you’re going, this could be as short as 4 hours of light with 20 hours of darkness. While the locals might find this darkness exhausting, I actually found the long hours of darkness exciting since it wasn’t something we experience in North America. But if you’re planning on taking any photos which require the light, such as any wide cityscape shots, just be sure to plan your schedule accordingly. I always headed out early in the day to take my pictures of the city and then scheduled my indoor activities, which didn’t require sunlight, for the afternoon into the early evening.

Be Cautious with Winter Air Travel

I had a near-disastrous flight to Sweden this winter. Luckily for me, everything worked out by some Christmas miracle, but I’m sure I’m not always going to be that lucky. Flying during the winter means weather might impact you more than other times of the year. To avoid as much stress as possible, be sure to book a direct flight if at all possible. This means should your outbound flight be delayed, you won’t need to worry about missing a connection. If you can’t book direct, ensure the layover between your two flights isn’t too tight. I BARELY made my connecting flight and felt so silly, not ensuring I had more time to account for bad weather. Yes, this might mean not getting to your destination as fast as possible, but trust me, it is worth it for the peace of mind. 

Let me know if you’ve ever travelled to somewhere cold in the winter and how you enjoyed your experience. Or comment to let me know what’s holding you back from a snowy adventure in the north!

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post 10 Reasons Why You Need to Take a Winter Vacation to Scandinavia first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.