Peak Season⭐ Top Pick

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.

6/10

🌡️ Weather in Gammelstad in December

-7°C
Avg Temperature
cold — warm layers and waterproofs needed
14h
Dark Hours / Night
Long dark nights — excellent aurora windows
🟡 Medium
Aurora Likelihood
Aurora possible on clear, dark nights — bring a camera just in case

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

🟡 Medium likelihood· Aurora score 6/10

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

Northern Lights Tours
Aurora Camp (overnight vigil)
Aurora Photography
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Ice Fishing
Photography Tours

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

Peak Season

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

Plan Gammelstad by Month

Highlighted in green = best months for Gammelstad