Norwegian Pre-Christmas Trips. The Biggest Winners: Germany and Poland

Berlin, a frequent choice among Norwegians, boasts around 80 Christmas markets that attract both locals and tourists. At Weihnachtsmarkt Zauber on Gendarmenmarkt, you can find handmade products and try white cocoa and baked apples.

Berliner Weihnachtszeit by the Town Hall offers a Ferris wheel, stalls, and an ice rink. Wintertraum am Alexa focuses on modern attractions. The whole city is filled with an intense pre-Christmas atmosphere that draws visitors of all ages.

Vienna features over 20 Christmas markets, stretching from baroque palace complexes to historic squares. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz offers Christmas cookie baking and workshops for children.

At Belvedere, you can buy handicrafts, local sweets, and artisanal goods. Maria-Theresien-Platz delights with a calmer atmosphere between the museums. The aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds accompanies visitors, highlighting the city’s unique character. These aspects attract Norwegians looking for a location for a short getaway.

In recent years, Poland—especially Gdańsk—has increasingly appeared on the list of destinations chosen by Norwegians during the pre-Christmas period. On Targ Węglowy, visitors are greeted by a combination of historic scenery, a rich selection of handicrafts, international cuisine, and festive decorations.

Visitors can enjoy the ice rink, buy local products, and meet Santa Claus, creating a unique atmosphere. This makes Gdańsk an attractive destination for those seeking holiday spirit, tradition, and a variety of festive attractions.

London’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a vast space with carousels, an ice rink, mulled wine, and numerous stalls. Along Southbank and by London Bridge, many markets offer gifts and food, while Kingston Christmas Market features wooden huts by the river. Portobello Road in Notting Hill transforms into a brightly lit Christmas street.

Norwegians are choosing not only London but also Prague and Budapest. Central European destinations turn out to be cheaper than, for example, domestic trips.

TUI Norge notes a clear trend of growing interest in both short and longer trips during the pre-Christmas period. Many clients combine relaxation with discovering new places, cuisines, and traditions. They also choose markets for the opportunity to buy unique gifts.

More and more travelers are deciding to travel to experience the unique atmosphere of cities preparing for the holidays. This trend includes both popular capitals and smaller European cities.