Gammelstad in December 2026
History and heritage travellers combining UNESCO culture with Swedish Lapland aurora viewing. Here's everything you need to plan your December visit.
🌡️ Weather in Gammelstad in December
December in Gammelstad sits at -7°C average, which is cold — warm layers and waterproofs needed. Expect around 14 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.
🌌 Northern Lights in December
Gammelstad has a base aurora score of 6/10. In December, aurora is possible on clear nights. With 14 hours of darkness, you have reasonable viewing windows if solar activity cooperates.
Tips for aurora chasing in December: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.
🎯 What to Do in Gammelstad in December
Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.
🎒 What to Pack for December in Gammelstad
Thermal base layers, fleece or down mid-layer, waterproof outer shell
Waterproof hiking or snow boots with good grip on icy terrain
Warm hat and insulated gloves; layers you can remove as you warm up
Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod
Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket
Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots
Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare
Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities
🏨 Accommodation in December
This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $55+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include Heritage guesthouses, Nearby Luleå hotels, Countryside B&Bs. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.
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🧭 Also Great in December
Other top polar destinations worth considering for a December trip

Antarctic Peninsula
Bucket-list adventurers seeking the world's most extraordinary wildlife experience in the last great wilderness

Ross Sea & McMurdo Sound
Elite polar explorers seeking the most remote, pristine, and historically significant destination on Earth

Svalbard
Bucket-list adventurers wanting the ultimate Arctic experience with maximum aurora intensity
Plan Gammelstad by Month
Highlighted in green = best months for Gammelstad