December in Stockholm is a magical time – the city is filled with sparkling lights, festive cheer, and winter activities. Whether you’re here for Christmas concerts, light festivals, holiday cruises, or winter sightseeing by boat, you’ll find plenty to get into the holiday spirit. Our guide will help you make the most of Stockholm in December, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends. At the end, you’ll find a map with all our top picks.
Light installation Geist. Photo: Alan Hayes
Take a stroll through Stockholm’s streets and experience the Nobel Week Lights festival. Running from December 6–14, 2025, this free festival features mesmerizing light installations that illuminate the city during the dark winter days. Each artwork is inspired by Nobel Prize-winning achievements and the people behind them.
Highlights for 2025 include:
See the full Nobel Week Lights program
Experiencing Stockholm from the water in winter is a must. On Stromma’s guided Stockholm Winter Tour, you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride along the city’s quays and out into the archipelago, circling Fjäderholmarna.
The live-guided tour (approx. 75 minutes) departs from Strömkajen in central Stockholm, offering unique views only visible during the coldest months. You can choose to sit inside or on the outdoor deck, where sheepskin covers and blankets keep you warm. Onboard, you can purchase fika, mulled wine, and other hot drinks.
Dates: December 24 – March 31
From December 17–19, 2025, enjoy traditional Christmas music at Berwaldhallen with the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and Choir, conducted by Anna‑Maria Helsing. A perfect choice for anyone looking to experience classic holiday ambiance in the heart of Stockholm.
Dates: December 17–19, 2025
Address: Dag Hammarskjölds väg 3
A Christmas cruise with Stromma is one of December’s most festive winter experiences. Step aboard the beautifully decorated ships and immerse yourself in a traditional Swedish Christmas.
Choose between a lunch or dinner cruise and enjoy a generous Christmas buffet featuring herring, salmon, cold cuts, warm dishes, and an extensive dessert table. The boats depart from Strandvägen and Nybrokajen, gliding through a tranquil, wintry archipelago where the views and onboard holiday atmosphere make for a magical experience.
Dates: November 26 – December 25, 2025
Tip: Book early to secure a spot, especially on weekends and around Christmas. Book your Christmas Cruise.
Experience a traditional Christmas buffet at Vaxholms Kastell – a tradition for many companies, families, and friends. Enjoy a homemade Christmas buffet in a festive setting at the fortress. The buffet offers everything from herring and salmon to freshly glazed ham, meatballs, and delicious desserts. The journey to and from Vaxholms Kastell takes place by boat through a wintery archipelago.
Dates: November 26 to December 21, 2025 – book the Christmas buffet at Vaxholms Kastell.
No visit to Stockholm in December is complete without a walk to see the NK department store Christmas windows. Always enchanting, these festive displays captivate both young and old with magical scenes full of holiday stories.
The Christmas world is playful and imaginative, with lights, music, and tiny details to admire. Take your time exploring, and maybe even shop for some Christmas gifts at NK or the nearby Gallerian across the street.
Dates: From November 15, 2025
Address: Hamngatan 18-20
© 2025 Strömma Turism & Sjöfart AB | Svensksundsvägen 19, SE-111 49 STOCKHOLM | Strömma Turism & Sjöfart is part of Stromma Group
