is it better to visit norway in summer or winter

The best time to go to Norway in 2024

Mar 18, 2024 • 5 min read

The best time to visit Norway will depend on what you want to do when you get there © Everste / Getty Images

Norway is known for its spectacular landscapes and, as one of the most beautiful countries on the planet, there's no such thing as a bad time to visit.

However, certain seasons will impact the many big attractions and experiences on offer – prioritizing what you want to do and understanding these seasonal differences will be key to planning your trip.

Summer is the most popular time to visit: it has the best weather, long hours of daylight, prices are generally cheaper and everything’s open. Winter is a magical and popular time to visit if you’re on a quest to see the northern lights. And for those looking to follow their own path along quiet roads to find a Norway stripped of all tourist hype, spring and autumn may be for you.

Here's everything you need to know about picking the best time to visit for your trip to  Norway .

June to August is the best time for good weather and cheaper prices

There is no better time to visit Norway than in summer. Let’s start with the weather. This being a Scandinavian country with much of its territory within the Arctic Circle, we can’t guarantee sunshine every single day, but from June to August, clear, mild days with a piercing blue sky are the norm. This is the best time to see the fjords, the Lofoten Islands or Svalbard at their most pristine and glorious.

Summer days here seem to last forever: north of the Arctic Circle, there is at least one day every year when the sun never sets. The further north you go, the more of these days you get. Even in Norway’s south, there’s no such thing as complete darkness throughout summer as the sun’s light from just below the horizon bathes the night hours in a sepulchral glow.

Summer is, of course, high season in Norway. This can mean that everything – from all roads and campgrounds to tourist attractions like boat cruises on the fjords – gets busy. This is also when most of the festivals happen, and when the majority of locals take to the roads. But traveling at this time comes with an unexpected bonus: unlike high seasons just about everywhere else, high season in Norway means cheaper accommodation prices. While this may sound counterintuitive, the reason is simple: Norway is one of the most expensive countries on earth, and the only people traveling at other times are business travelers on expense accounts. In other words, prices drop so that tourists can afford to travel.

There is one further advantage to traveling in Norway in the summer. For much of the year, Norway’s wild landscapes are susceptible to the kind of unpredictable weather you just don’t want to get caught up in. With that in mind, the hiking season  only runs for the three summer months every year. It’s also the best (and, in some cases, the only) time for cycling, white-water rafting and whale-watching off the coast of Vesterålen .

December to February is the best time for the northern lights

Summer may open up a whole world of possibilities but the Norwegian winter has a special (and increasingly popular) call all its own. This is the time of year when the northern lights dance across the sky in great curtains and cascades of shape-shifting colored light. Truly one of the natural world’s greatest spectacles, the aurora borealis happens year-round, but Norway’s long winter nights provide the perfect conditions in which to see them.

Yes, you need clear skies, which is never something that can be guaranteed in the depths of a Norwegian winter. And you never quite know when or where they’re going to appear. But when they do, it’s the kind of experience that lingers in your memory with all of the magic of a fairy tale coming to life.

Winter is also when the polar night descends upon the country, casting it into darkness for months at a time; the sun doesn’t even appear above the horizon from late October to mid-February in Svalbard’s Longyearbyen . But seeing the country at this perspective-altering time can be almost as memorable as seeing the northern lights. If you’re lucky, you’ll experience both.

When the sun is shining in winter, as it does surprisingly often wherever daylight occurs, the snows that cover much of the country transform Norway into a land of singular and spectacular beauty. Even in the iciest conditions, most of Norway’s roads remain open throughout winter, and elsewhere Norwegians take to the paths – whether to the local shops or out into the wilderness – on cross-country skis. If you’re not inclined to join them, there’s always dog-sledding, ice hotels and snowmobiling for those looking to immerse themselves in Norway’s frozen winter world.

March to May and September to November are the best times for quiet roads

With so much going on in summer and winter, Norway falls relatively quiet during the spring and fall months. And therein lies the appeal of visiting at this time. Beyond city limits, Norway’s roads are quieter by a near-exponential magnitude. It’s also easier to come by your favorite hotel booking, while weekend accommodation prices can be the same as those seen otherwise only in summer.

If you time your visit right and visit in late spring (May, for example) or early autumn (September), you might also enjoy some of the benefits of summer – cheaper hotels, hiking trails still open – but without the crowds to share them with.

And yet, perhaps the greatest benefit of traveling at this time is something less tangible. In many ways, this is an ideal time to observe Norway, to look through a window into the world of local life as it goes quietly about its business. It can be a far (and deeply satisfying) cry from the world of busy tourist attractions and carefree summer months.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated March 2024

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The Best Time To Visit Norway: A Month-By-Month Guide

• June 9, 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Norway, it’s important to know the best time to go. Norway is a beautiful country that offers different experiences depending on the time of year.

Whether you want to see the Northern Lights, hike through the fjords, or bask in the sunshine, there’s a perfect time for you to visit.

In this month-by-month guide, we’ll take you through the different seasons and highlight the best activities and sights to see during each one.

From the snowy winter wonderland to the lush greenery of summer, Norway has something to offer all year round.

So pack your bags and let’s explore the best time to visit Norway!

January – March: Experience the Northern Lights and Winter Activities

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland adventure, you’ll want to visit Norway between January and March to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights and take part in thrilling winter activities .

Dog sledding and ice fishing are among the most popular winter activities in Norway’s Northern Lights season. You can explore the snow-covered landscapes on a dog sled, or try your hand at ice fishing and catch your own dinner.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that can only be seen in certain parts of the world, and Norway is one of the best places to witness this incredible display of lights. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is from December to March, and you can take part in guided tours to ensure you have the best chance of seeing them.

As you admire the dancing lights in the sky, you’ll feel like you’re in a magical winter wonderland.

Now, let’s move on to the next season: April – May, springtime in Norway.

April – May: Springtime in Norway

Experience the beauty of Norway’s spring season in April and May, where the stunning landscapes come to life with colorful blooms and the fresh scent of nature. As the snow melts away, Norway transforms into a picturesque paradise with vibrant wildflowers, green forests , and crystal-clear lakes.

The best activities during this season include hiking and cycling through the countryside, where you can witness the stunning scenery up close. You can also go fishing in the fjords, where salmon and trout thrive during this time of year.

In addition, April and May is the perfect time to visit Norway’s major cities, such as Oslo and Bergen, where you can stroll through the streets and enjoy the warm weather. You can also visit the numerous museums and art galleries, which offer a glimpse into Norway’s rich history and culture.

As the spring season is a popular time to visit Norway, make sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid disappointment. Now, let’s move onto the next season, where Norway truly shines: summer.

June – August: Summer in Norway

Now that the spring season’s come to an end, it’s time to get ready for summer in Norway!

Get ready to explore the stunning fjords and coastline that this beautiful country has to offer.

Experience the magic of the midnight sun during this time of year and attend music festivals like the Oslo Jazz Festival for a truly unforgettable summer adventure.

Don’t miss out on all the fun that Norway’s got to offer during this exciting season!

Explore the Fjords and Coastline

You’ll be mesmerized by the stunning fjords and picturesque coastline of Norway during the summer months. The best way to experience the beauty of Norway’s coastline is by taking a fjord cruise. You can explore the majestic fjords, see waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, and spot wildlife like eagles and seals. Along the way, you can also visit charming fishing villages and experience the local cuisine.

Norway’s coastline is dotted with small towns and villages that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich fishing culture. From the colorful houses of Bergen to the quaint town of Ålesund, there are plenty of places to explore. You can sample freshly caught seafood, stroll along the harbor, and learn about the history of Norway’s fishing industry.

As you immerse yourself in the culture and natural beauty of Norway’s coastline, you’ll begin to understand why it’s such a popular destination. And if you think the scenery is breathtaking during the day, just wait until you experience the midnight sun!

Experience the Midnight Sun

As the sun sets and the sky turns into a soft shade of pink and orange, you’ll witness a natural phenomenon like no other when the sun never truly sets but rather dips just below the horizon before rising again in a blaze of glory, creating a stunning display of colors that will leave you in awe – the midnight sun in Norway is a sight to behold.

During the summer months, the sun remains visible at all times of the day and night above the Arctic Circle, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration.

If you’re looking to experience the midnight sun in Norway, there are several activities and locations that offer breathtaking views. Here are three options to consider:

• Hike to the top of Mount Fløyen in Bergen, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the midnight sun.
• Take a midnight sun cruise along the coast of Tromsø, where you can witness the sun’s reflection on the calm waters of the fjords.
• Visit the Lofoten Islands, where the rugged landscape and picturesque fishing villages are surrounded by a golden glow during the midnight sun.

As you bask in the beauty of the midnight sun, don’t forget to attend music festivals like the Oslo Jazz Festival, where you can enjoy live performances amidst the stunning natural backdrop of Norway.

Attend Music Festivals like the Oslo Jazz Festival

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to groove to live music amidst the stunning natural backdrop of Norway at the Oslo Jazz Festival. This annual event, held in August, is a must-attend for music lovers from all over the world.

The festival features a diverse lineup of jazz musicians from Norway and beyond, performing in various venues across the city. Some of the Oslo Jazz Festival highlights include the opening concert at the Oslo Opera House, the Jazz Cruise on the Oslo Fjord, and the Jazz Picnic in the Frogner Park. The festival also offers workshops, seminars, and jam sessions for aspiring musicians.

The music scene in Norway is thriving, and the Oslo Jazz Festival is a testament to that. So, mark your calendar and get ready to experience the best of jazz music in Norway.

As the summer comes to an end, the autumn season in Norway brings a different kind of beauty. The leaves turn golden, the air becomes crisp, and the landscapes transform into a picturesque wonderland.

September – October: Autumn in Norway

As you move into September and October, you’ll find that Norway’s autumn is a breathtaking sight to behold. The crisp air and changing colors make it the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and scenic drives.

You can experience the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of fall against the stunning landscape. And if you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during the annual Northern Lights Festival.

Enjoy Hiking and Scenic Drives

Enjoy hiking and scenic drives in Norway! Experience the breathtaking beauty of the country by taking scenic drives and hiking through stunning landscapes. This offers a true immersion into Norway’s unparalleled natural wonders. Here are four must-see scenic routes and best trails for hiking during September and October:

• Geiranger-Trollstigen National Tourist Route: This route offers a fantastic view of the Geirangerfjord and the Trollstigen mountain road, with many stops along the way for photos and hikes.
• Rondane National Park: This park offers a range of hiking trails for all levels of hikers, with stunning mountain views and beautiful autumn colors.
• Hardangervidda National Park: This park offers scenic drives with stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. It also has many hiking trails for all levels of hikers.
• Sognefjellet National Tourist Route: This route offers a scenic drive through the highest mountain pass in Northern Europe, with breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and lakes.

As you explore the scenic routes and hiking trails, you’ll also witness the stunning colors of fall in Norway. From the vibrant reds and oranges of the leaves to the golden hues of the sunsets, the autumn season in Norway is an experience not to be missed.

Experience the Colors of Fall

Fall in Norway is a truly enchanting time, with the vibrant colors of the leaves and golden hues of the sunsets creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to take a leaf peeping tour and witness the stunning autumn foliage that blankets the countryside. The bright reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees against the backdrop of the blue sky and the fjords is a sight to behold.

Aside from the colorful foliage, fall is also the season for autumnal food festivals. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine and try out traditional dishes such as reindeer stew, smoked salmon, and hot mulled wine. These festivals are held all over Norway, so you can experience the unique flavors of each region.

As the leaves fall and the autumn festivals come to an end, it’s time to prepare for the next season and attend the northern lights festival.

Attend the Northern Lights Festival

Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights at the annual festival. The Northern Lights Festival is held in Tromsø, Norway, and it’s the perfect opportunity to witness the aurora borealis while immersing yourself in the local culture.

Here are a few things you can experience during the festival:

• Northern Lights photography workshops led by professional photographers.
• Concerts featuring traditional Norwegian music and dance performances.
• Guided tours of the city’s historic landmarks and museums.
• Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and reindeer meat.

In addition to the stunning display of the Northern Lights, the festival offers a wide range of cultural experiences that are sure to enhance your visit to Norway.

As the festival comes to a close, it’s time to gear up for the winter wonderland of November and December.

November – December: Winter Wonderland

By November and December, Norway transforms into a winter wonderland, making it the perfect time for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts to visit. The snow-covered landscape is a sight to behold, and the crisp, fresh air is invigorating.

Winter activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling are also popular among visitors.

In addition to winter sports, Norway’s Christmas markets are a must-see during this time of year. The markets are filled with handmade crafts, traditional Norwegian food , and festive decorations.

The largest Christmas market in Norway is held in Oslo, but smaller markets can be found in other cities throughout the country.

Strolling through the markets, sipping on hot cocoa or gløgg (Norwegian mulled wine), and listening to carolers singing in Norwegian is a truly magical experience.

Congratulations! You now have a month-by-month guide on the best time to visit Norway. Whether you’re a fan of winter sports, spring blossoms, summer hikes, or autumn foliage, Norway has something to offer year-round.

Remember to pack accordingly for each season, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery. Norway is a place of natural beauty, with majestic mountains, sparkling fjords, and charming towns.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Norway and experience the magic of this Nordic wonderland. Safe travels!

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The Best Time To Visit Norway (A Local’s Month-by-Month Breakdown)

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I’m often asked by my readers about the best time to visit Norway , which is always a hard question to answer; because I consider Norway to be a year-round destination (and so do most locals you ask). However, it is possible to figure out the best time to go to Norway, depending on what you are after!

Norway is like a dream destination for everyone. Call me biased, but I’m pretty sure anyone who visits Norway is going to fall in love with it, no matter what time of year. To visitors, Norway means majestic fjords, historic towns, beautiful country-sides, steep glaciers and jagged peaks. To me, it’s all of that, and home.

Each season in Norway has its unique attributes, and so what the best month to visit Norway is changes accordingly. However, I have tried my best to break it down for you in this post, to help you decide when to travel to Norway.

There’s a different ‘best time of the year to visit Norway’ for indulging in different activities like skiing, hiking, fishing, cruising the fjords, chasing Northern lights; for witnessing the beauty of nature like spring blossom, autumn fall, glittering snow etc. So, firstly you have to be clear what exactly you want to do and see in Norway.

To help with this, check out my guide to what Norway is famous for , to give you an idea of where you want to go (and what you need to know before you go).

Table of Contents

What is the best time to visit Norway?

The best time to go to Norway varies with the activities you are hoping to do during your trip, and what you want to get out of your Norway vacation. In short, three things will affect your decision : the light, weather and tourist influx. All of these differ throughout the year in Norway.

Norway is located quite far north on the map, and so you can expect pretty big seasonal changes in daylight. This will 100% affect the time of year you should visit Norway.

This means that if you visit in the winter months, the majority of the day is spent in darkness with little to no natural light. Some places don’t even see the sun for months on end. Even further south, this is true, and at my parent’s house in Aurland , we spend about 3 months with no sunshine hitting our house.

On the other side, however, visiting Norway in May, June or July, will result in long days and hardly any dark at all. If you go up north, to destinations such as Alta or Tromsø , you can enjoy the midnight sun shining 24 hours a day!

The next thing that changes depending on the time of year you head to Norway is the weather. In the winter and autumn months, you can expect rainy, snowy and even windy days to be a part of your trip. Whilst in the summer the weather is more stable, and usually sunny (all though it is never guaranteed).

My favourite website for Norway’s weather forecast is Pent.no , because it compares the weather forecast from two other sites. Usually, the weather ends up being something in between the two forecasts.

Finally, the number of tourists and visitors to Norway can affect your trip. If you are bothered by masses of people, longer wait times and hoards of tourists everywhere you go – you might want to avoid visiting in the summer months.

All these things (tourist influx, weather, and daylight) I have included in my month-by-month breakdown below! Hopefully this will give you a definitive answer as to the best time to travel to Norway for you and your family.

If you have 10 days to spend in Norway, don’t miss this 10-day Norway itinerary I’ve created!

The Best Month to Visit Norway: Month-by-month Breakdown

Below I have split the best time to visit Norway into different months with details on the activities to do in those times and the kind of weather to expect.

That way, you can read the whole post and decide for yourself what is the best month to visit Norway, based on which of these sections most align with what you hope to do on your trip!

Visiting Norway in January and February

Best months for: Skiing, spotting Northern lights, snowmobiling, snowboarding, sleigh riding, dog and reindeer sledding, ice fishing, experiencing Sami culture

Tourist influx: Lowest

Weather information:

• Rainfall: 35 to 50 mm
• Average temperature: -6 to 0 degree Celsius
• Season: White winter (Coldest)
• Daylight: 6 to 8 hours in Oslo; Sun does not rise in Tromsø in January but you could enjoy 5 to 6 hours of daylight in February

January and February are the coldest months of the year in Norway. The tourist influx in the country during these months is pretty low owing to the harsh and chilly winters.

However, this is probably the best time of year to visit Norway for travellers who are interested in snow dependent activities, a relaxed ski retreat, or in seeing the Northern lights .

Especially Northern Norway is primarily a winter destination, with unique activities such as reindeer sledding, staying in an Igloo Hotel and going whale watching .

Read this next : How to shoot the northern lights with an iPhone

If you wish to make the most of the magical winters of Norway, head north towards the Arctic Circle, specifically the Northern lights belt, where the entire landscape is covered with thick snow, the fjords are frosted and the northern lights dance in colourful formations across the sky.

Best places to visit: This is the best time to visit Norway to explore Oslo , Bergen , Ålesund, Trondheim, Tromsø, Svalbard, Alta and the Lofoten Islands .

Events or Festivals: Northern lights festival, Tromsø International film festival, Ice music festival), Polar jazz festival, Sami week

Pricing: Air fare and hotel tariffs are at their lowest in January and February, so travelling during these months will definitely make for a cheaper trip.

Visiting Norway in March and April

Best months to visit Norway for: Hiking, cruising the western fjords (the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord), kayaking, skiing (northern Norway)

Tourist influx: Low

• Rainfall: 40 to 45 mm
• Average temperature: -1 to 10 degree Celsius
• Season: Mixed (Late-winter and early-spring)
• Daylight: 8 to 13 hours in Oslo, 10 to 14 hours in Tromso

March and April are some of the best months to visit Norway for travellers who want to make the most of both the winter and spring seasons.

The winter snow slowly starts to melt by mid to late March and most bodies of water are filled with fresh water. Numerous waterfalls are boosted in April by melting waters and summer activities slowly open up allowing tourists to cruise the fjords. The waterfalls during these months (and moving into the next) are quite spectacular.

March is the end of Northern lights season as Norwegians welcome an Easter holiday break and head to the mountains to ski. The Jotunheimen National Park hiking season begins in April and you should not miss out on hitting the beautiful trails before the peak season crowd comes in.

Head this way for the best hikes in Norway .

Best places to visit: Bergen , Trondheim, Røros, Ålesund and the Lofoten Islands (to spot the Northern lights).

Events or Festivals: Holmenkollen ski festival, Winter chamber music festival (Røros), Narvik winter festival, Birkebeiner race, Holy week.

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are still cheap as the tourist influx has just started picking up.

Visiting Norway in May and June (the best time to visit Norway)

Best for: Road-trips, hiking, cruising fjords, trekking, island hopping, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing

Tourist influx: High

• Rainfall: 50 to 65 mm
• Average temperature: 6 to 18 degree Celsius
• Season: Spring
• Daylight: 16-17 hours in Oslo, sun hardly sets in Tromso

As the daylight time increases and spring season sets in, carpets of wildflowers add colour to the Norwegian landscape. Hence, these months are considered to be the best time to visit Norway to go hiking .

If you head above the Arctic circle, you’ll be able to enjoy the Midnight sun during these months, one of the things Norway is most famous for . 

May and June are also the best months to visit Norway to cruise the fjords, with fjord cruises on the Hardangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, Geirangerfjord and even from Bergen opening for bookings.

As the weather starts getting pleasant (or as pleasant as it can get in Norway), you can indulge in several outdoor activities like hiking and trekking where you can see flowers, greenery and stunning views as far as the eye can see.

You could also plan a road trip on the very popular Trollstigen Road near Ålesund, as most of these popular tourist routes open around May (several of them are closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall).

Top tip : Always check the Norwegian road directory website before heading out on a road trip in Norway , to stay up to date on any closures and road works.

Best places to visit: Some of the best places to visit in Norway are Oslo, Ålesund, Bergen, Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands, Svalbard (to spot polar bears and the midnight sun) and Flåm .

Events or Festivals: Constitution day (the 17th of May), Bergen international festival, Tromsø’s midnight sun marathon, North cape march, Færder sailing race, Norwegian wood festival

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are high as the prime shoulder season sets in. Advance booking is advisable and travel within the country (such as trains) can sell out.

Visiting Norway in July and August (the most popular months)

Best for: Road trips , hiking, fjord cruises, trekking, island hopping, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, surfing, snorkelling, photography

Tourist influx: Highest

• Rainfall: 80 to 90 mm
• Average temperature: 10 to 20 degree Celsius
• Season: Summer
• Daylight: 16-19 hours in Oslo, sun hardly sets in Tromso

If you are someone who is not a fan of cold weather and snow, then July and August months would be the best time of the year to visit Norway for you. It is as warm as it gets, and the days are long and bright.

There is a range of outdoor activities that you can indulge in considering the endless daylight hours and the warmer temperatures. You can explore the fjords, spot the prominent Midnight sun, hike to Pulpit rock , pick berries, bike, trail, and trek. Try to squeeze in the Sami culture celebration in Norway during these months if you are visiting the north.

This time of the year is perfect for road-trip planning across Norway, and especially a drive through Trollstigen Road (all though it is busy, so make sure to plan for plenty of time and drive within your limits).

A trip to the Lofoten islands is ideal to experience water activities like kayaking, boating, fishing, surfing and snorkelling, in addition to some incredible hikes. July and August are also the best time to visit Norway to spot the migratory birds flocking the coastline.

Top tip : hit the road and get off-the-beaten path to avoid crowds. The western fjords in particular are incredibly busy these months.

Best places to visit: This is the best time of the year to visit Norway in its entirety, however, the Lofoten islands, Stavanger, Vesterålen, Finnmark, Svalbard, Trondheim are major picks. The fjords are, as mentioned, the #1 destination during the summer months.

Events or Festivals: Gladmat (Scandinavia’s largest food festival), Riddu Riddu festival, Arctic sea kayak race, Bergen beer festival, Oslo jazz festival

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are expensive throughout Norway. Advance booking is recommended.

Visiting Norway in September and October (the best time to go, in my opinion)

Best for: Island hopping, cruising fjords, hiking, trekking, fishing, mountain biking, photography

Tourist influx: Fairly low

• Average temperature: 5 to 15 degree Celsius
• Season: Autumn/ Fall
• Daylight: 11 to 14 hours in Oslo as well as Tromso

In the autumn season (September and October), the locals often go one weekend trips before winter sets in, whereas the tourist crowd slowly recedes.

September is my favourite month of the year, and also my top tip for the best time to visit Norway.

The coastal areas remain warmer than the inner parts of the country. September and October are the best months to visit Norway for those looking to stay away from the tourist crowd, save some money and yet enjoy the perks of the beauty that the country has to offer.

The colours of the summer are still there, opening hours and activities are still running the same schedules as in June-August, and there are (slightly) less tourists than the high season.

As autumn approaches in the end of September, the beautiful colours start to show up and the landscape gets covered with hues of orange, red and yellow, ideal for photography .

The mountain hikes are the prettiest during these months with trees shedding colourful leaves and vistas are covered in sparkling frost towards the end of October.

The outdoor activities slowly start closing up by October, though the fjords can still be explored. By October end, you could again plan to voyage towards the northern parts of Norway to chase the Aurora borealis.

Read next : how to take photos of the Northern Lights with just a GoPro

Best places to visit: This is the best time to visit Norway to explore Oslo, Bergen, Kirkenes, Lillehammer, Bergen, Flåm, Ålesund, Geiranger, Trondheim, Tromsø, Lofoten islands and more

Events or Festivals: Bergen food festival, Nordic light photo festival, Insomnia festival, Lillehammer jazz festival, BIFF (Bergen International Film Festival)

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are affordable owing to the scaling down of tourist season.

Visiting Norway in November and December

Best months for: Chasing Northern lights, skiing, snowboarding, experiencing Sami culture, spotting whales and orcas, kick-sledding, dog sledding, reindeer safaris, rock art, Christmas/holidays

Tourist influx: Low; slightly higher during Christmas and New year

• Rainfall: 55 to 70 mm
• Average temperature: -5 to 5 degree Celsius
• Season: Dark Winter (Cold)
• Daylight: 6-8 hours in Oslo, sun barely rises in Tromso

While the tourist season has pretty much declined, festivities sets in for the Christmas and New year. Despite the chilling cold, the celebrations bring in warmth and cheer.

Note that opening hours are very limited in some areas. This is one of the reasons it’s important to be prepared and book things early when visiting Norway for Christmas .

Decorations sparkle against the dark winter, and visiting Norway in December is the perfect time of year if you want to see how Norwegians celebrate Christmas .

The Northern lights season starts again and it is the best time to visit Norway for tourists seeking to find snow and chase the Aurora borealis without the crowds of January and February. Most people catch them on a Tromsø northern lights tour .

The lakes and some fjords slowly start to freeze. The days are dark and snowy, and daylight hours tend to become few (with some areas only experiencing 1-2 hours of daylight).

You could spend time doing indoor activities like visiting museums in Oslo or testing out all the restaurants in Bergen for mouth-watering local Norwegian delicacies. Read and bookmark my packing list for winter in Norway before you go to ensure you have everything you need!  

Best places to visit in Winter: Svalbard, Kirkenes, Tromsø, Lofoten islands, Oslo, Trondheim, Rorøs, the fjords

Events or Festivals: Rakfisk festival, Rorøs Christmas market, Nobel peace prize ceremony, Christmas holidays, the Bergen gingerbread town (the largest in Europe, I believe)

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are low but tend to spike during the Christmas and New year time.

The Best Time of Year To Visit Norway: Activity-Focused

Below I try to break down what the best time to visit Norway is according to the activity you are planning. From hiking to exploring the fjords, you’ll find that there are different times of year that are ideal.

Best time to visit Norway fjords

In my opinion, the best time to visit Norway if you want to see the fjords is in May and June . During these months, the colors of the scenery are at their brightest, creating a breathtaking visual experience.

Additionally, this is when the waterfalls are most dramatic, cascading down from the mountains in all their glory. It is truly a sight to behold. If you’re planning a fjord cruise in Norway, these months offer the perfect conditions to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the fjords. So, mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Below are some of the best fjord cruises in Norway – I always recommend booking early, as they can sell out.

Best time to visit Norway for hiking

I believe that the best time to visit Norway for hiking is during the months of August and September. During this time, you can witness the breathtaking autumn colors as they start to emerge. The snow has completely melted, making it easier to explore the beautiful landscapes.

Moreover, the temperatures during these months are quite pleasant, allowing for a comfortable hiking experience. If you are looking for some remarkable hiking trails, I highly recommend checking out Aurlandsdalen valley and Pulpit Rock .

These trails are particularly enchanting during August and September, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences. So, grab your hiking boots and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Norway!

The Cheapest Time to visit Norway

Norway is known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences, but it’s no secret that it can be an expensive destination. However, if you’re looking to plan a budget trip to Norway, there’s a silver lining.

During the winter months, specifically in January and February, you’ll find that flights and hotels are more affordable compared to the rest of the year. This presents a great opportunity to explore Norway without breaking the bank. While it’s true that Norway’s natural beauty remains unchanged throughout the year, keep in mind that tours and restaurants don’t generally lower their prices during the winter season.

So, if you’re looking to experience Norway on a budget, visiting during the winter months is definitely a safer bet.

Read next: Oslo on a budget

Final Thoughts

Like I’ve said before, Norway is magnificent all year round. But if you ask me, my (personal) favourite months to visit Norway are February/March (for snow, ski and Northern lights) and September (for all the benefits of visiting in the high season, but with slightly less crowds and the addition of autumn colours).

Hopefully, this guide will make it easier for you to plan your trip to Norway .

Are you planning a trip to Norway? Then you’ll want to read my Norway travel guide , which covers everything from where to go and stay to how much to tip when visiting.

Head this way next:

• Norway itineraries for your trip
• My complete Norway travel guide
• How to plan a trip to Norway
• The Best Places to Visit in Norway
• My travel guide to Flåm and the fjords
• How to get from Oslo to Flåm
• How to get from Bergen to Flåm
• Norwegian sweater you’ll love

Regardless of what time of year you end up visiting Norway, there are so many amazing things to do here. From whale watching and chasing the Northern Lights in the winter, to going on a beautiful fjord cruise in the summer – you won’t be bored.

Below, you can browse some of the best tours and activities across Norway. Make sure to make your bookings in advance, as they tend to sell out fast!

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The Two Faces of Norway: Summer or Winter?

Norway’s got a bit of a tough man reputation about it. Everyone’s huge, bearded and they consume beers by the flagon, right? You’d expect nothing less from this ancient Nordic country that shares the same latitude as Alaska, Iceland and the far north of Siberia. Well essentially, the beards and the flagons only come out in winter, which surprisingly, is not all the time, in spite of what those perpetually darkly-lit Norwegian dramas and murder mysteries would have you believe. The amount of daylight in Oslo can reach 18 hours a day in the height of summer, making it the perfect time of the year for some serious exploring. And the winter is perfect for donning some skis and hitting the slopes. There are two faces to Norway: here are the best things to do in summer and winter.

Haukland Beach

With the sun putting in 18 hour shifts during summer, there’s bound to be quite a bit of heat knocking around. Averages for June to August are between 25 and 30 degrees and the locals take full advantage by waking up from their hibernation and spending as much time frolicking outside as they possibly can. A lot of time is spent in parks amidst freshly bloomed flowers or in a beer garden sipping on typically fruity Norwegian ales. The lack of humidity encourages a mini exodus from cities in the north like Tromso to the beaches in Lofoten district; and although Norway might not be your first thought for beaches, the utterly untouched ones like Haukland and Kvalvika will almost definitely be the most dramatic you’ve ever relaxed on.

With the clock always ticking until hibernation season comes round again, it’s fair to say that binge eating is the national pastime during those long summer days in Norway. To prepare for all the energy they lose in the winter, Norwegians like to cook big. The typical summer fare in Norway is none other than the humble barbecue; sometimes for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a manner that truly fits their Viking persona. Barbecuing at parks and in front gardens is done to such a magnificent degree that there is an ‘official grilling season’ that starts on Norwegian Constitution Day and Norwegian terms have started to spring up in the local lexicon. Grillpils is a beer specifically to accompany the barbecue, Grilldress is the elasticated outfit worn by the griller to enable maximum consumption and Grillfest is a traditional barbecue party. That’s doing it right.

Fantastic view of the Geirangerfjord

A lot of Norway’s remarkable landscape is inaccessible during the winter due to high levels of snow and ice; the summer heat is like one fantastic snowplough that carves a path into the heart of the country’s breathtaking fjords . You can sail through Geirangerfjord in Western Norway’s Sunnmore region and stare up at gargantuan waterfalls that a few months ago were the frosting on top of the massive cliffs. Hjorundfjord provides a similar expansive beauty with a wide, winding lake that ripples below the jagged mountain tops. There are plenty of walks to enjoy during the summer, and although they may be demanding in parts, once you reach the end, the breathtaking views are out of this world and definitely worth the effort…

Keep exploring

So not ALL of the landscape is inaccessible in winter. The Lofoten district is pretty frozen over, but taking a kayak down its fjords is one of the most Instagram-friendly things you can do in the world. The sky ranges from crystal blue to wonderfully moody and the mountains are coated in some of the most pristine snow anywhere. Of course, Norway quite possibly holds the crown on Northern Lights tourism and the north of the country is perhaps the best place in the world to hunker down for the show. The lights can actually be seen as far south as Oslo without major difficulty, but anyone with a serious urge for the ethereal should head to Tromso; a big hub for the aurora that provides dozens of different ways to see them in style.

Dog sledding in Geilo, Norway

Winter sports

Unsurprisingly for a Nordic country consisting of 70% mountain, Norway abounds with world-class slopes ranging from the gentle to the ones that plummet hundreds of feet into rocky glaciers. Just north of Lillehammer, a town that hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics, is the vast expanse of Rondane National Park and Venabu where visitors can glide through the frozen wonderland on a guided cross-country skiing holiday. You can also enjoy a candle-lit husky or horse-lead sleigh ride through the rolling white hills and between trees heaped with snow. Tobogganing is also popular in this region.

Or head to Geilo, a quaint village on the edge of the Hardangervidda National Park, which is famed for its winter activities and its clean air. Here, you can try cross-country skiing, snowshoe across deep virgin snow, go on a husky sleigh ride and have a go on the beginner slopes of Geilo’s alpine centre. Great for families or those who are new to winter sports!

Decide which face of Norway you prefer by reading more about our holidays in Norway .  God tur! (Have a good holiday!)

Written on January 12, 2017 by Lawrence Haywood

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lawrence haywood.

Lawrence took off from the UK in 2013 and never looked back. During his various stints in Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Asia, he developed a passion for travel writing from his many experiences. Now he works remotely, giving him a chance to explore the bits of the world that have eluded him so far.

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When To Visit Norway: A Monthly Guide

If you're thinking about visiting Norway and wondering when is the best time to go, we've got good news for you! This Scandinavian country has something special to offer in every season. 

From magical winter wonderlands with Northern Lights displays to long summer days with never-ending sunlight, Norway is a destination that can be enjoyed all year round. 

To help you plan your trip, we've put together a list of what you can expect in Norway each month, along with some exciting events and festivals that are worth attending. Start planning your Norway trip with this guide and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most beautiful countries in the world!

Best Time to Visit Norway 

Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries! To help you plan your trip, here are the most popular activities in Norway, along with the best months to visit.

Whale Watching: Late October to mid January

Northern Lights: November to February 

Midnight Sun: Typically from June to July

Road Trips: April to early September

Hiking: May to September

Camping: April to September

Weather in Norway by Month

This guide can help you plan your trip to Norway accordingly and make the most of your visit. We've listed what to expect in Norway by month, as well as the major events. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and book your accommodations ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons.

January is one of the coldest months in Norway. During this month, you can expect snow almost everywhere. With an average daylight of 6 to 7 hours, January is one of the best months to view the northern lights.

You can also enjoy many snow activities in the mountains, such as skiing and dog sledding. Except for ski resorts and ice hotels in the snow, January is a slow season with lower prices and fewer crowds. As the coldest and darkest month of the year, January has a unique beauty that can only be experienced during this time.

Events:  Northern Light Festival , Tromso International Film Festival

February in Norway is usually a bit brighter and has longer days than January but it still is another cold month in Norway. Despite the colder temperatures, February is still a great time to visit, as there are plenty of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed, including viewing the northern lights. 

February in Norway is still the low season, so you can take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds for another month.

Events: Ice Music Festival , Kristiansund Opera Festival , PolarJazz Festival , Sami Week

March has plenty of festivals to enjoy. It is still considered an off season month in Norway, but the days start to become noticeably longer and temperatures begin to creep up a bit, making it a great time for outdoor activities. During this month, there are more daylight hours to enjoy winter sports. 

You can enjoy lower rates and fewer crowds in March until the end of the month, when spring breakers begin to arrive. It is also the last chance to see the northern lights before they disappear until autumn.

Events:  Narvik Winter Festival , Winter Chamber Music Festival , Stavanger Vinfest , Holmenkollen Ski Festival

As the weather warms and nature begins to bloom, spring arrives in Norway, making it an ideal time to explore the country. The weather in the north is still cold, but it warms up later in the month. While the rest of the country enjoys longer daylight hours and temperatures ranging from 4 to 9 degrees Celsius. 

April is considered shoulder season in Norway, so you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower rates. It is also one of the best months to cruise the Fjords. It is important to note that some businesses may be closed during Easter.

Events: Voss Jazz festival , Inferno Metal festival

May is an excellent time to visit Norway before the summer crowds arrive, as most tourist attractions still have lower prices and fewer visitors. Spring is in full bloom, and you can look forward to warmer weather and longer days. 

The weather in May is also known to be extremely unpredictable, so expect some days to be rainy and others to be warm and sunny. May is an excellent month for hiking, and waterfalls are in full flow due to melted snow. On the 17th, you can also join the locals in celebrating Norway's National Day.

Events: Bergen International Festival , Mai:jazz, Stavanger International Jazz Festival 

June in Norway is the beginning of the summer months, offering the perfect opportunity to experience all that this picturesque country has to offer. With warmer weather and longer daylight hours, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping. 

In June, there are numerous outdoor and music festivals to attend. The great weather also brings more crowds, so expect higher prices this month for most activities, accommodations, and attractions. Head up to the north to experience the midnight sun in Norway. 

Events: Extreme Sports Festival , Overoslo Music Festival , Færderseilasen Race , Risør Kammermusikkfestival

The busiest time of the year in Norway is in July. With the warm temperatures and long hours of daylight, many people choose to take their holidays during this time, including the Norwegians. As a result, long lines at popular attractions and higher prices are to be expected. 

In July, daylight lasts around 16 to 18 hours, perfect for enjoying the outdoors. July is also an excellent month for island hopping, fjord cruising, and hiking. Tourists visiting Norway during this month can expect days filled with festivities and breathtaking views of the midnight sun around the arctic circle.

Events: Gladmat , Riddu Riđđu Festival , Arctic Sea Kayak Race , Kongsberg International Jazz Festival

August marks the end of the summer season in Norway but it is still considered a high season, so prices remain high. However, you can expect smaller crowds at the main tourist attractions compared to July. During this month, you can still enjoy pleasant temperatures and many sunny days. 

However, expect unpredictable weather in the north and prepare for some rainy days. With plenty of sun lasting 14 to 16 hours, August is still a great time to visit and enjoy the outdoors. Such as hiking, camping, and the numerous festivals that take place throughout the month.

Events: Bergen Beer Festival , Norway Seafood Festival , Pstereo Music Festival , Skalldyrfestivalen

September marks the beginning of autumn. It is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer months while still enjoying longer daylight hours. Expect the weather to be cooler in the early mornings and evenings, so bring some warm clothing with you. 

If you enjoy hiking or camping, September is an excellent month to avoid crowds. Just be prepared for the unpredictability of the weather and expect some cool wind or rain. You need to plan ahead when visiting in September as some popular attractions may be closed and tour availabilities are limited.

Events: Bergen Food Festival , Oslo Marathon

The month of October in Norway is ideal for viewing the autumn foliage. October sees fewer travelers due to the cooler weather and shorter days, so you can expect a quieter and less expensive travel experience compared to the peak season. The northern lights will begin to appear in the Arctic Circle as the days become shorter. 

However, Norwegian autumns are known to be very unpredictable. As a result, expect cloudy and rainy weather in October. We recommend checking the weather forecast for the area you're visiting ahead of time and bringing warm and waterproof clothes.

Events: Lillehammer Jazz Festival , Insomnia Festival

November in Norway is the last month to see the last fall colors. This is typically a slow month with fewer visitors because summer vacationers have long since left and winter travelers have yet to arrive. 

You can expect warmer weather in the south and winter-like conditions with freezing temperatures in the north. Remember to bring warm clothing, as well as rain and snow-resistant walking shoes.

Because there are fewer daylight hours in November, you have a good chance of seeing the northern lights. It's also a great month for other winter activities like skiing and dog sledding in the north. 

Events: Rakfisk festival

While December is a very busy month for Norwegians, it is slightly less busy for tourists. It is a great time if you want to experience the Christmas spirit, as the villages and cities have a festive atmosphere as they get ready for the holidays. 

December is also one of Norway's coldest months, with 5 to 6 hours of daylight in the south and polar nights in the north. That means there's a good chance you'll see the northern lights in December. Just remember to bring warm clothes and be prepared for rain that can turn to snow. Other December activities include a whale safari, ice skating, reindeer sledding, and many more.

Events: Røros Christmas Market , St. Lucia Day

And that's the guide to the best times to visit Norway, as well as a monthly guide to what you can expect. 

Norway is a beautiful country, and visiting during any month of the year promises a unique and unforgettable experience. With a variety of activities available all year, Norway has something for everyone, and you're sure to have a great time. 

Some links in this Norway guide may be affiliate links.

This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one of our links, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by doing so, you are supporting Colorful Journeys in continuing to provide free high quality content to help you in your travels!

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In the popular imagination, Norway is commonly regarded as remote and cold – spectacular but climatically inhospitable. There is some truth in this, of course, but the best time to visit is not, perhaps, as clear-cut a choice as you might imagine with other seasons other than summer offering particular bonuses.

Festivals and holidays in Norway

March/april.

There are, for example, advantages to travelling during the long, dark winters with their reduced everything: daylight, opening times and transport services. If you are equipped and hardy enough to reach the north, seeing the phenomenal northern lights (aurora borealis) is a distinct possibility and later, once the days begin to lighten, the skiing – and for that matter the dog-sledging, ice fishing and snowmobiling – is excellent. There are skiing packages to Norway from abroad, but perhaps more appealing – and certainly less expensive – is the ease with which you can arrange a few days’ skiing wherever you happen to be.

As the year advances, Easter is the time of the colourful Sámi festivals, and mid-May can be absolutely delightful if your visit coincides with the brief Norwegian spring , though this is difficult to gauge. Springtime is particularly beguiling in the fjords, with a thousand cascading waterfalls fed by the melting snow, and wild flowers in abundance everywhere.

Autumn can be exquisite too, with September often bathed in the soft sunshine of an Indian summer, but – especially in the far north – it is frequently cold, often bitterly so, from late September to mid- to late May. Nevertheless, most people travel during the summer season, which can be the best time to visit as bus, ferry and train connections are at their most frequent. This is the time of the midnight sun : the further north you go, the longer the day becomes, until at Nordkapp the sun is continually visible from mid-May to the end of July.

Something worth noting, however, is that the summer season in Norway is relatively short, stretching roughly from the beginning of June to the end of August. Come in September and you’ll find that many tourist offices, museums and other sights have cut back their hours and buses, ferries and trains have already switched to reduced schedules.

Almost every town in Norway has some sort of summer shindig. There are winter celebrations too, though for the most part at least, these are worth attending if you are already in the area rather than meriting a special trip. Festivals fall broadly into two types, one focusing on celebrations of historical or folkloric events, the other based around music, whether jazz, pop or classical.

As you might expect, most tourist-oriented events take place in summer and, as always, national and local tourist offices can supply details of exact dates, which tend to vary from year to year. Below we have listed the more important festivals, some of which are also mentioned in the Guide.

Nordlysfestivalen

(Northern Lights Festival), Tromsø. Late Jan. w nordlysfestivalen.no . This week-long festival of classical and contemporary music coincides with the return of the sun, hence its name.

Birkebeinerrennet

Lillehammer. Late March. w birkebeiner.no . Famous 58km cross-country ski race from Rena to Lillehammer, which celebrates the dramatic events of 1206, when the young prince Håkon Håkonsson was rushed over the mountains to safety. The race follows what is thought to have been the original route.

Easter Festivals

Finnmarksvidda. Easter. w festival.karport.no. Finnmark’s largest festival, held in the town of Karasjok, is something of a Sámi New Year. Sámis prepare by fashioning new gáktis (Sámi dress), polishing their silver and cooking large meals, while during the festival there are snowmobile, reindeer and cross-country-skiing races, lassoing contests and art exhibitions and concerts.

Nasjonaldagen/Grunnlovsdagen

(National Day/Constitution Day). Nationwide. May 17. Many processions and much flag-waving with cheering crowds celebrating the signing of the Norwegian constitution on May 17, 1814.

Festspillene i Bergen

(Bergen International Festival), Bergen. Late May until early June. w fib.no . Much-praised festival of contemporary music that puts a real spring in Bergen’s summer step. Venues across the city. For more information, see The Bergen International Festival.

Norwegian Wood

Oslo. Mid-June. w norwegianwood.no . Three-day, open-air rock festival, arguably Norway’s best, that takes place in Frogner Park; showcases big-name international artists as well as up-and-coming local bands.

Ekstremsportveko

(Extreme Sport Week). Voss. Late June. w ekstremsportveko.com . Every reckless sport imaginable and then some – from paragliding and base jumping through to rafting and bungee jumping.

Midnight Sun Marathon

Tromsø. Late June. w msm.no . Taking advantage of 24hr daylight, this “night-time” run attracts hundreds of athletes. You can opt for shorter distances too.

Kongsberg Jazz Festival

Kongsberg. Four days in early July. w kongsberg-jazzfestival.no . Large-scale jazz festival, one of the country’s biggest, where the emphasis is on Norwegian musicians.

Molde. Mid-July. w moldejazz.no . Held over a six-day period in the middle of the month, this is one of the best festivals of its type, attracting big international names.

Olsokdagene

(St Olav Festival), Stiklestad. Late July. w stiklestad.no . St Olav, Norway’s first Christian king, was killed at the battle of Stiklestad in 1030. Historical pageants and plays honouring him are staged on the King’s feast day (July 29) as well as during the six days before.

Åndalsnes. Late July to early Aug. w raumarock.com . Two-day knees-up showcasing the talents of a wide range of local and international acts from the likes of the Bare Egil Band to the Raga Rockers and the Toy Dolls.

Oslo Jazzfestival

Oslo. Mid-Aug. w oslojazz.no . A six-day event attracting a veritable raft of big international names.

Norwegian International Film Festival

Haugesund. One week in late August. w filmweb.no . Norway’s most prestigious film festival, with a wide selection of the latest releases from across Scandinavia.

Oslo. Ten days in early to mid-Sept. w ultima.no . Much-vaunted festival showcasing the talents of contemporary classical musicians from Scandinavia and beyond. Various venues.

Trondheim. Three and a half weeks in Oct. w uka.no . Prestigious cultural festival, one of Norway’s largest, featuring a battery of international and domestic artists in everything from classical music to rock, theatre to wrestling, juggling and crime writing.

Bergen Internasjonale Filmfestival (BIFF)

Bergen. Mid- to late Oct. w biff.no . Week-long international film festival, one of the best of its type in the country. Various venues across the city centre.

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Summer in Norway

Don't sleep away the bright nights

During the months of June, July, and August, the days are long and the nights are short, even non-existent north of the Arctic Circle, due to the midnight sun. It's the perfect season to experience a wide range of activities and explore Norway's great outdoors (or great indoors, if it's raining!).

As soon as summer gets a firm grip on Norway, usually in late May or early June, you’ll see the locals out and about, enjoying the sun after a long and cold winter. As the weather gets warmer and warmer, so do the people.

Summer temperatures can reach up to 25 to 30 degrees Celsius , especially in the south and in the inland valleys. Even the nights are often warm, and water temperatures in the sea and in the many inland and forest lakes in the southern parts of the country usually reach 18 degrees Celsius or higher, making swimming a popular pastime.

From late June to early August, the nights never get really dark anywhere in the country. But if you want to experience the true midnight sun , you need to travel to Northern Norway. The further north you go, the more nights of midnight sun you get . There are plenty of cool things to do with the extra hours – go kayaking, hiking, or fishing in the middle of the night, or visit one of the top places to experience the phenomenon in all its glory.

With one of the longest coastlines in the world, Norway has a rich boating life . People of all ages are out at sea all summer long. The skjærgård  in Southern Norway – an archipelago consisting of thousands of small islands and islets – is especially popular, and almost every town along the southern coast has a good guest harbour.

Summer is also prime time for hiking, cycling, and camping . Most of the snow in the mountains has melted away, and lots of people spend their summer holiday out in nature. Outdoor recreation is a major part of our national identity, and the right to roam  is even protected by law.

How to dress for summer

Norwegian summer weather may be relatively stable, but that doesn’t mean it can’t surprise you. If you go hiking in the mountains or are out at sea, be prepared and make sure you bring waterproof and windproof clothing , as well as a layer of wool . As we say in Norway: there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.

The sun can be deceptively strong, even if the wind helps keep you cool, so make sure to use sunscreen . Remember to pack a swimsuit, too!

Get the latest weather forecast

Check the local weather forecast at  Yr.no , delivered by the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK). Download Yr’s free weather app for iOS or  Android .

Delicious summer food and drink

Blueberries, raspberries and lingonberries are common in Norwegian forests and mountains, and begin to ripen in the middle of summer in Southern Norway and a bit later further north. In July and August, you will see roadside booths offering locally grown strawberries and cherries for sale.

When the sun is out, so are the Norwegians. Barbecuing is a Norwegian summer tradition . At the first sign of summer, Norwegians flock to pubs to enjoy a beer on the pavement or in a beer garden. The phenomenon of utepils (literally “outdoor beer”) is so ingrained that the first opportunity to indulge is reported in the media.

A typical summer dish is freshly caught fish , especially mackerel, trout or salmon, served with sour cream, fresh potatoes, and cucumber salad. Prawns straight from the boat, served outdoors with white bread, lemon, mayonnaise, and white wine is another favourite.

Summer travel ideas

Read our recommendations month by month.

Summer in the city

Get insider tips on exciting long weekends in Norway’s main cities, where urban vibes meet small-town charm.

Feature articles

Get some new travel ideas! Read our guides and inspirational stories about hidden gems we think that are so worth the travel.

Explore summer in Norway

Vibrant festivals or serene nature excursions – how would you like to spend your Norwegian summer?

Explore other seasons

Autumn leaves and winter fun. Travel off-season for less tourists and great deals! 

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Best Time To Visit Norway (For Northern Lights & Best Weather)

Plan your perfect Norway trip! Find out the best times for weather, Northern Lights, and fewer crowds. Essential guide for all travelers.

Norway is one of the most lively, unique, and festive places in the world. The Northern Lights, gorgeous views, unique culture, and sprawling hills attract countless tourists each year. So, what is the best time to visit Norway?

The best time to visit Norway is between June and August when it is warm and the foliage is vibrant. December through February is the worst time to visit Norway unless you are a skier. You can avoid crowds if you go to Norway between March and May or September and November when tourism is down.

There is no bad time to go to Norway because you can always enjoy beautiful views. With that said, some months are better than others if you have a family or plan to avoid crowds. Follow along as we explore the best time to visit Norway.

When Should You Not go to Norway?

Credit: Shutterstock

The worst time to visit Norway is from December to February because of the extreme cold and snow.  Temperatures stay below 30 degrees  throughout this period generally making it a bad time to be outside. This can limit your outdoor activities and make it difficult to navigate the roads depending on the snow and ice.

However, some people consider this the best time to go to Norway to enjoy skiing. The winter is the ski season in Norway which attracts thousands of tourists each year. Winter is only a good time to visit Norway if you are a skier, otherwise, you will have to navigate large crowds of tourists that are there for winter sports.

Related Read:   Best Time To Visit Europe

Cheapest Time to Visit Norway

April is the cheapest time to visit Norway because it isn’t a popular time for tourism.  You can book a flight for between 4% and 6% cheaper than during the summer or winter . The savings are worth it because international flights are never cheap, so it’s ideal to get the best bang for your buck.

Summer is the most expensive time to visit Norway and you can spend up to hundreds of dollars more on a flight depending on your location.

You can find round-trip flights to Norway for as low as $1,200 in April. A round-trip flight to Norway in June could cost as much as $1,900 or more per person depending on when you book it.

Book your flight to Norway 3 months in advance or sooner to get the best deal on your vacation. Airlines offer better rates the further out that you purchase your tickets, and that helps with international flights.

Best Time to Visit Norway: Monthly Breakdown

January: best time for adults.

January is the coldest month of the year in Norway with an average temperature of  27 degrees Fahrenheit . Despite the cold temperatures, it doesn’t rain more than 8.8 inches on average throughout January in Norway. The cold weather doesn’t stop the festivities, and there are many fun outdoor events all month long.

The Northern Lights Festival in January is a demonstration of beautiful music for tourists and locals to enjoy. Adults can have plenty of fun at the Bergen Whiskey & Beer Festival which is a unique 2-day event. Karnivool is among the most unique January events in Norway, and it takes place in the iconic city of Oslo.

• Northern Lights Festival
• Bergen Whiskey & Beer Festival

February: Best Time for Conventions

The average high daily temperature throughout February is 35 degrees Fahrenheit . This is a markable improvement over January’s weather, but it is still quite chilly. It typically snows at least 8 inches each February in Norway, if not more.

The Kristiansund Opera Festival is a mellow event that mixes opera, art, and ballet into one package. Oslo is home to the Ice Music Festival which is a more lively and upbeat event. Conventions like HackCon and the Nordic Fuzz Convention also draw massive crowds in February.

• Kristiansund Opera Festival
• Ice Music Festival
• Nordic Fuzz Convention

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March: Best Time to Visit Norway for Skiing

Oslo is the perfect Norwegian destination in March with fun events like the  Holmenkollen Ski Festival . Blueberry Smoke is another unique event held in Oslo that is worth checking out when you visit in March. Fitness-conscious tourists will enjoy the Birkebeiner Race that ends in Lillehammer, but you might get cold.

The average daily high during March in Norway is 44 degrees Fahrenheit  which makes outdoor activities much easier. You will still want to pack a heavy coat or jacket and prepare for it to snow. March snowfall averages 6 inches, but larger accumulations can occur. Luckily, March is a great time to ski in Norway before it gets too warm.

• Holmenkollen Ski Festival
• Birkebeiner Race
• Blueberry Smoke

April: Best Time to Visit in Spring

April marks the return of warmer weather throughout Norway as the country moves into spring.  It can get as warm as 55 degrees  during April in Norway, and it’s a great time to explore the outdoors. Cold weather is still common at night and in the morning, so don’t ditch your jackets just yet.

Enjoy some relaxing music at the Voss Jazz Festival at the beginning of April to start your trip off right. There aren’t many special events throughout April in Norway, but it’s a great time to get outside. Hiking destinations like Segla, Munka, and Stetind are worth checking out.

• Voss Jazz Festival

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May: Best Time to Celebrate History

Temperatures continue to increase throughout May across all of Norway. You can expect temperatures up to 75 degrees or warmer depending on which region you visit. May is the windiest month in Norway which can help you cool off on a hot day.

Hear some eclectic music from around the world at the Bergen International Festival in May. Celebrate Norway’s history on  May 17 th  which is known as Constitution Day. This is the equivalent of the 4th of July in the United States, and it’s a big deal in Norway.

• Bergen International Festival
• Constitution Day
• Syttende Mai festival

June: Best Time to Visit in the Summer

You can expect temperatures  between 55 and 75 degrees  when you visit Norway in June. It typically rains between 2 ½ and 4 ½ inches each June in Norway. The rain isn’t enough to stop exciting outdoor sporting events and music festivals.

Norway hosts the world-famous  Download Festival  in June which attracts international tourists. The North Cape March is a great way to see lots of Norway in one physically active event. You can also observe or join in on the Faerder Sailing Race during June in Norway.

• American Emigration Festival
• Download Festival
• Whit Saturday
• North Cape March
• Faerder Sailing Race

July: Best Time to Visit for Art

Stiklestad Summer is a festive summer event that runs until August in Norway. Glomma Festival is another great event on the river that is perfect for adults.  July is a great time to enjoy art  with numerous exhibitions throughout the country at places like the Vestfold Kunstsmuseum.

It doesn’t often get hotter than 76 degrees Fahrenheit during the day in July. Areas like Oslo are prone to rain in July and averages  3 inches throughout the month.  The comfortable highs make it easy to spend time outside without getting too hot.

• Stiklestad Summer
• Glomma Festival
• Art Exhibitions
• Gressholman Festival
• Molde International Jazz Festival

August: Best Time for Music

August is a hot time in Norway, but it marks the decline back to cooler weather towards the end of the month. Temperatures fluctuate  between 52 and 77 degrees  Fahrenheit. Areas like Bergen, Norway can get up to 7 inches of rain or more in August.

The Findings Festival is worth checking out if you wind up in Oslo during August. Laid-back events like the Telemark International Folk Music Festival are a great way to experience Norwegian culture.

• Peer Gynt Festival
• Findings Festival
• Telemark International Folk Music Festival
• Chamber Music Festival

September: Best Time to Visit Oslo

September is a slightly less busy time in Norway with minimal events. However, it’s a great time to visit Oslo because of the weather. Special events like the  Oslo Design Fair  and Oslo Marathon attract crowds every September.

Temperatures stay  between 50 and 65 degrees  throughout September in Norway. Oslo specifically gets between 3 and 8 inches of rain each September.

• Oslo Marathon
• Oslo Design Fair

October: Best Time For Jazz Music

October is when it starts to get cold again in Norway so bring your warm attire.  Temperatures fluctuate between 43 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit throughout October in Norway . It generally rains up to 3.5 inches each October, but it’s known to rain much more.

The cold weather can dissuade some tourists from exploring fun outdoor events, but they are worth it. Events like the Lillehammer Jazz Festival are a blast each October as long as you dress warm enough. Insomnia Festival is another fun event each October in Norway, and you will find Halloween celebrations all over as well.

• Insomnia Festival
• Lillehammer Jazz Festival

November: Best Time for Northern Lights

Northern Lights season begins in September, but November is the best time to see them in Norway.  North Cape, Tromsø, and Svalbard  are the best places to see the Northern Lights each November. You can also enjoy great live music during November in Norway at the  Oslo World Music Festival .

Snow is common throughout November in Norway and accumulations  between 5 and 12 inches or more  are common. It can get as cold as 23 degrees during November and it rarely gets warmer than 42 degrees. You can enjoy gorgeous views of snow-capped hills and mountains during November in Norway.

• Oslo World Music Festival
• See the Northern Lights

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December: Best Time for a Quiet Trip

The most notable event throughout December in Norway is the  Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony . This event is held in Oslo and attracts visitors from across the world anxious to celebrate the new recipient of the prize. There aren’t many festive events during December in Norway as the country prepares for Christmas.

With that said, you can still have holiday fun at Christmas Town in Tromsø. Drive through Oslo and enjoy the several Christmas light displays and decorations.  It snows up to 3 inches per week  each December in Norway, so your chances of a white Christmas are quite strong.

• Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony
• Munin Conference on Scholarly Publishing
• Christmas Town

Best Time to Visit Norway With Family

The summer is the best time to visit Norway with family because of the weather. Norway is known for its cold weather, but that isn’t a problem between June and August. Summer is the only time of the year that you can count on warm temperatures in Norway.

Even the spring can be quite cold in Norway depending on where you stay.  Temperatures stay below 80 degrees Fahrenheit  in most parts of Norway. You won’t have to worry about excessive heat as you travel around Norway with your family in the summer.

Best Time to Visit Norway to Avoid Crowds

The spring and fall are when you are the least likely to encounter crowds in Norway . Tourists generally flock to Norway in either the summer or winter. The summer is appealing to tourists because of the comfortable temperatures, and the winter brings skiers.

Spring and summer have fewer festivities that would attract large crowds. With that said, March-May is one of the prettiest times for Norway so it’s worth the vacation. September through November is a quiet time in Norway, but it’s a blast if you can handle the cold temperatures.

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16 Undeniable Reasons Why You Should Visit Norway In The Winter

Wondering when is the best time to go to Norway? What if I tell you that it’s winter? There are 100 and 1 reasons why you should visit Norway in the winter. Let me share with you the 16 of them. And some pretty pictures of the Norwegian snowy landscape. Be prepared for the sudden urge to buy a flight ticket – I warned you!

Since we moved to Norway, we are getting requests from friends and family to visit. And they are all asking “when is the best time to go to Norway?”. Well, normally people travel to Norway in the summer, don’t they?

But when I get asked that question I hesitate with the answer. I am not so sure. When I wrote an article about the best things to do in Oslo in winter , I couldn’t stop writing. Because there is plenty to do in Norway in winter! Whether you visit the countryside, the mountains, the north, south, or the west coast to see Bergen in winter . If you look for something different, spectacular, and unusual, and if you are ready for the challenge, you should at least once visit Norway in the winter.

And because it’s pretty. We like pretty things, right? 

Norway in the winter?

Sure thing, summer is the high season in Norway. For a reason. Everything is green, it’s (relatively) warm, it can be sunny, the roads are open, travel is easier. You can hike to places like Kjeragbolten or Trollpikken , try wild camping , or admire the midnight sun in the north, like on Senja Island .

This doesn’t mean that with a little bit of effort, you can’t discover another side of the country – in winter. That’s when Norway transfers into another, magical world. The hills are covered with snow, the lakes freeze, the Norway fjords in winter are quiet, and the Northern Lights dance in the sky. And if you come to Norway in December, you will get to see all the fairy lights Christmassy atmosphere. For those who dare and try Norway winter travel , the big rewards await.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More details here .

16 reasons to visit Norway in winter

#1 winter in norway is like a set from “frozen”.

Did you know that Disney’s Frozen was inspired by the wintery Norway landscape ? It shouldn’t be a surprise, because thanks to the magical Norwegian winter, the country does look straight from a Disney fairytale.

The raindeers run in the fields of Svalbard , the little wooden houses contrast with the white snow, and dramatic waterfalls fall off the cliffs. Akershus fortress in Oslo was actually a model for Elsa’s and Anna’s castle in Frozen. Now you have to come to Oslo in winter and see it for yourself.

Read more: Best Norway clothing – what to pack for Norway in winter

#2 There are no crowds

Norway is one of the most popular destinations for travelers . Luckily, mainly during summer. Come in winter and you will have the famous landmarks and spectacular nature just to yourself. Ok, you might need to share it with a few skiing Norwegians or a reindeer or two. It’s not a bad company when discovering a country, though, is it?

Compare the popular town of Flåm from Norway in a Nutshell in winter and in the summer and you will get two different stories. I am still in love with the winter version.

#3 Norway is a great destination for skiing

From the kilometers of cross-country skiing tracks to the ski slopes and wonderful ski touring opportunities – skiing in Norway is a national sport.

…and all other winter sports

And there are a whole lot of other sporty things to do in Norway in the winter months. This includes sledding (I recommend Korketrekken in Oslo), ice skating, snowball fighting, ski jumping, visiting Christmas markets, and many more. When the waters and lakes freeze over, and you are adventurous enough you can try ice skating or walking on the frozen sea. Just make sure that it’s safe – the ice should be at least 10 cm thick. For more winter activities in Norway, capital check things to do in Oslo in winter .

Read more: Fun & unique things to do in Oslo in winter

#4 You can try dog sledding

Another fun activity to do in Norway in winter is dog sledding. Be a responsible traveler and make sure you choose the company that treats their dogs well. We’ve tried dog sledding in Norway near Oslo and loved it. The best part? Dogs loved it too 😉

Explore some of the dog-sledding activities:

#5 you can go on a snowmobile tour.

In winter you can go on a snowmobile adventure in Norway . The drive on the sea ice and getting close to the dramatic glaciers of Svalbard is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you are lucky you can even spot the polar bears on the way. There are also other snowmobile driving experiences in other parts of Norway, such as snowmobile tours in Tromsø (which is one of the best things to do in Tromso in winter ), or in Alta.

Read more: The most interesting things to do in Bergen in winter (indoors and outdoors)

#6 You can chill in the sauna and swim in the frozen fjord

The sauna tradition originating in Finland can be widely found also in Norway. Some of the saunas are open even in the summer, but I have to tell you that there is nothing better than a hot sauna in winter, with breaks for a cold dip in the frozen sea. I’ve done that in Helsinki in winter and in Oslo in winter – and I would do it again.

#7 You can chase the Northern Lights

The Norwegian winter is a time of darkness. And that means a higher chance of spotting the Aurora. Staring into the black night sky illuminated by the Northern Lights in Norway should be on everyone’s bucket list. The best time to visit Norway for Northern Lights is in winter.

You can see the Northern Lights in the north of Norway, especially in Tromsø. It’s best to rent a car and drive out of the city or take one of the Northern Lights tours . There are plenty of Norway winter tours, specializing in the Northern Lights hunt to choose from – for example, this, highly-rated Northern Lights Photography Tour .

Read more: Northern Lights hunting guide – tips to see Aurora

Check other Norway winter tours and the Northern Lights tours in Norway:

#8 warm up in the mountain cabin.

Ask me for my dream winter day and it will be walking amongst snowy mountains, arriving in this cute wooden hut in the middle of the forest where all the trees have fluffy snow caps. Lighting up the fireplace and drinking mulled wine from the cozy cabin looking out to the frozen landscape.

The best part? It’s so easy to make that dream come true in winter in Norway. If you wonder where everyone is during the Norway winter holidays, this is the answer – in the cabins in the mountains. And it makes perfect sense! You can find a lot of cottages to rent for a cozy weekend in the cabin in Northern Norway . For some of my personal suggestions that I tried myself, have a look at this post for Norwegian hytte – cute cabins in Norway you can afford to rent .

#9 You can go for an adventurous winter road trip to Norway

Summer road trips are accessible to everyone. Winter road trips in Norway are only for the brave ones. The rewards are spectacular. Driving in Norway in winter can be challenging (not for the newbies!) but is certainly doable. Take it slow and take it all in. Do not try it without the previous winter driving experience.

Read more: Norway winter itinerary – magical road trip

#10 You can try ice climbing

This is something, that I had a chance to try for the first time last winter and I got completely hooked. You can try ice climbing in Rjukan , which is one of the most famous locations for ice climbing in Norway (and Europe). With its special climate and almost 200 waterfalls, the ice climbing possibilities are endless. The town itself is tiny but the outdoor activities are great. Rjukan lies 2,5 hours drive away from Oslo, so it’s a good idea for a weekend trip when you visit Oslo in winter .

If you are not an experienced climber you can contact some of the local climbing agencies that can take you for a day on the ice. For those more interested, there is also a possibility of ice climbing courses – from weekend to week-long.

If you have some ice climbing experience already, you can come to Rjukan and climb on one of the many waterfalls. In the season, the area is full of climbers coming from all over the world. It’s a great atmosphere and fun outdoor adventure activity to try!

Where to stay in Rjukan in winter

If you want to stay near Rjukan for the night, I can highly recommend Sandviken Camping . There are cute wooden cabins located just by the lake with a fjord view. You also get access to the sauna – perfect after the whole day out in the cold! That’s where I met some Polish climbers, who helped me try ice climbing for the first time the next day. Check the availability and prices here.

Read more: Best Norwegian gifts and souvenirs

#11 It’s actually not that cold

While it’s true that the Norway winter temperature can go down to -25°C or even -40°C in Svalbard or higher in the mountains, that’s not the case everywhere. On the west coast, the winter temperatures often stay around zero. That’s thanks to the warm Gulf Stream, which is bringing a milder climate to that part of the country. Norway’s winter weather can be easily changeable and much colder in other places, though, so dress accordingly if you plan to travel there.

#12 You can explore the cute local Christmas markets

December in Norway is full of fairy lights, the sweet smell of glogg and caramelized nuts, carols, and Norwegian sweaters. Scandinavian wintertime is lit up by millions of lights around Christmas time. You can find it all in the traditional Norwegian Christmas markets set up throughout the country.  It’s a perfect spot to pick up some Norwegian gifts or souvenirs to take back home.

#13 You don’t have to wake up early for the sunrise

If you are a late sleeper but still want to see some of the stunning winter sunrises Norway can offer, you are in for a treat in Norway in winter! The days in winter are much shorter with the late sunrises happening even at 12 am in Tromsø (until it gets completely dark). It’s a perfect time for catching those dreamy photographs with several hours of the “golden hour”.

#14 You can discover the Blue Light

When you travel to Northern Norway in winter, after the Polar Night is starting to be over, you will be able to witness the special blue light that lasts for hours. The blue hour phenomenon is the period of twilight before sunrise or after sunset when the sun is below the horizon but it’s still not completely dark.

In winter, in the northern hemisphere, that time is longer, especially during the period when the sun starts to return after the long Polar Night. It’s a magical time, worth to be watched on the snowy landscape.

#15 You can stay in the ice hotel

Every year in winter in Norway and around the whole of Scandinavia, special hotels are being built. The ice hotels, that you can find in northern Norway in Alta are made entirely from snow and ice. They feature several bedrooms, ice bars, ice chapels, and ice artwork. It takes about five weeks of hard work to have a hotel ready. The prices of the stay are not cheap, but in this case, you pay for the unique experience rather than just for a room.

In Norway, the ice hotels that you can visit and stay at are: Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta , Snowhotel Kirkenes in Kirkenes, and Bjorli Ice Lodge in Bjorli. Last season I visited Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta and I was amazed by its architecture! Everything, including beds, lights, “fireplace”, and even a bar, and a chapel is made out of ice! Staying there is a truly special experience. Check prices and availability here.

If you don’t feel like staying in a hotel made out of ice, you can just visit one of them on the Tromsø Ice Domes Tour . Learn about their construction process, admire their beauty, and have a drink in the ice bar. Check prices and availability here.

Explore ice hotel tours in Norway in the winter:

#16 winter in norway is a perfect excuse for hot waffles, hot chocolate, and a glass of mulled wine.

Norwegian waffles are something that you have to try when you visit Norway in winter. As a tradition, when Norwegians ski out in the wilderness, they usually stop in the cabin for some waffles with brown cheese or cream and jam. The cheeky glass of mulled wine is yummy warming up addition to that!

What to pack for Norway in winter

Whereas winter in Norway is fun, to fully enjoy it, you need to come prepared. Make sure to check my post for the best Norway winter clothing and what to pack for Norway in winter .

Here are some essential items to pack for Norwegian winter:

• The base layer –  merino wool top   and   merino wool bottoms
• Mid-layer – fleece or down jacket.
• Waterproof and windproof outer layers. A Goretex jacket and waterproof pants work well.
• Waterproof boots, with solid soles, not be slippery on the ice. For hiking, I often use my trekking shoes  with warm socks.
• Thermal socks, a hat, and a scarf.

I hope those are enough reasons why you should visit Norway in the winter. But, you know, I can keep going, so if you want to know more, just ask me. Or let me know in the comments about your reasons!

Read more about Norway:

• Norway winter clothing – what to pack for Norway in winter
• Best Norwegian gifts and souvenirs to bring back from your trip
• Norway on a budget – Local tips for cheap Norway travel
• 13+ Best things to do in Svalbard
• Svalbard snowmobile tour to the East Coast
• Norway in a Nutshell in winter
• Dog sledding in Norway
• Norway winter itinerary
• The best things to do in Oslo in winter
• The most interesting things to do in Bergen in winter (indoors and outdoors)

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Related posts:

• 5 Reasons To Visit Senja Norway – Lesser-Known Island in Norway
• Norway Winter Travel Itinerary – Magical (and Unique!) Winter Road Trip
• Best Norway Winter Clothing – What To Pack For Norway In Winter
• Fun & Unique Things to Do in Oslo in Winter (By a Local)

5 thoughts on “ 16 Undeniable Reasons Why You Should Visit Norway In The Winter ”

Love to visit someday…

You have me convinced. Norway looks amaaaaazing in winter. I have to admit, before I moved to Canada, I would have thought you are mad, but now I have learned that I *can* cope with cold weather and snow as long as I am wrapped up well. These views look worth the chill.

The only thing I am not sure about is swimming in the frozen fjord. That does sound loopy.

*immediately books flight to Norway…* It looks so magical in the snow! Totally right out of the Frozen movie, you’re right! It looks like the perfect place to enjoy all kinds of winter activities.

Norway looks like an amazing winter destination. Some of these places just look so magical, it looks like they were designed to be seen in a snowy landscape.

Where do I sign up? Amazing country that I’ve always wanted to visit. It’s in the top 3 for sure, all of this looks incredible

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Norway In Summer: Best Places & Alternatives

Want to visit Norway in the summer? It’s a bold choice, considering that some parts of the country get snow even in July. But I won’t tell you about those; instead, I will only tell you about the places that are best experienced in the summer, with a few alternatives for the cities that get just a little too busy in warm weather.

From the spectacular architecture of Oslo to the best beaches of Kristiansand – this guide to the best places to visit in Norway in the summer is the only one you need to read to plan the perfect Nordic getaway!  

Explore Oslo

Oslo is Norway’s capital and it’s one of the best cities to explore in the summer. It’s not the first place that comes to mind when you think of a summer vacation in Norway, but it’s certainly a worthy stop. Plus, there are quite a few beaches in Oslo and the most popular swimming spots are almost in the city center!

The days are very long in Oslo in the summer with up to 19 hours of sunlight. This is perfect for roaming around the city and seeing the best of what Oslo has to offer. The warm weather really makes the city come alive, but the streets are not necessarily as busy as you would expect. That’s because Oslo summers are all about the sea and Norwegians spend most of their time fishing, swimming, or just relaxing on the vessels docked in Oslo harbor.

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That also means you can explore some of the city’s top sights without encountering huge crowds. The Oslo Opera House should be one of the first tops on your tour of the city – it’s an iconic sight and one of the most famous buildings in all of Norway! A close second is the imposing Akershus Fortress. The former waterside prison boasts two military museums dedicated to its history, as well as spectacular views of Oslo.

Then there are the museums. Oslo has quite a few great museums and most of them are worth your time. The Norway Resistance Museum is a must for history buffs, the Edward Munch Museum is perfect for art lovers, and the Viking Ship Museum is interesting for everyone. Other museums worth visiting in Oslo are The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, The Fram Museum, The Vigeland Museum, and The Norwegian Armed Forces Museum.

See Bergen And Its Mountains

Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city and one of the best places to visit in both summer and winter. The spectacular city is surrounded by seven mountains, the tallest of which is Mount Ulriken. Take a cable car to the top of the mountain for some truly mesmerizing panoramic views of Bergen. You could also hike to the top of the mountain – it takes about two hours and the trail is suitable even for beginners.

Fløyen is the second-tallest mountain near Bergen and another great place to enjoy some stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s best to ride the cable car from Bergen to the mountain, and then you’re free to go and explore as many of the different hiking trails as you want. Fløyen is also popular for mountain biking, canoeing, and ziplining!

The mountains surrounding Bergen are phenomenal, but they’re not the only things worth seeing on the peninsula. The city itself is full of interesting attractions including landmarks, parks, museums, and iconic buildings. One of the first stops on your Bergen tour should be Bryggen, a medieval wharf best known for colorful boathouses. Walk around this part of the city until you eventually reach the Bergenhus Fortress. The 13th-century fortress is one of the oldest buildings in the city and it features a museum with detailed exhibits on Bergen during WWII.

Another interesting museum in Bergen is the Leprosy Museum. It’s located on the grounds of a preserved hospital from the 18 th century, and it features exhibits on Norway’s history of leprosy and relevant research contributions. It’s also very close to the Bergen Fishmarket, which happens to be a great place to grab a bite of (overpriced) seafood delicacies.  

Best Alternatives To Bergen

Not in the mood to overpay for accommodation in Bergen in the summer? That’s fine – although the charming city remains one of the top locations in Norway for a summer visit, there are quite a few worthy alternatives that are just as interesting, but without the crowds!

Trek To Trondheim

Trondheim is one of the largest cities in Norway and very popular with tourists. It’s also the home of Nidaros Cathedral, which happens to be the final destination of one of Norway’s most famous long-distance hikes. If that is something you enjoy, a trek to Trondheim is a great way to explore Norway in the summer.

There are nine different pilgrim routes to Nidaros Cathedral, and together they are more than 3,000 kilometers long. The most popular pilgrim path is Gudbrandsdalsleden, which is a 643-kilometer hike from Oslo to Trondheim. It’s the longest of the pilgrim paths, and it takes the average hiker a little over a month to complete it. It’s also one of the most scenic routes in the country featuring spectacular landscapes, untouched nature, and countless landmarks along the way. 

If you’d rather not spend a month hiking from Oslo to Trondheim, you can just fly into the city and explore it the old-fashioned way. Apart from the iconic cathedral, there are quite a few other places worth visiting in Trondheim. The Kristiansten Fortress is surely one of the top city sights, both for the rich history and picturesque location.

There’s also the Trøndelag Folk Museum that boasts around 80 different buildings in an open-air setting and happens to be one of the best places to learn about Norwegian history and culture. If you enjoy Norwegian pop music head to Rockheim – the museum features an extensive media library, interactive exhibits, and some seriously cool vintage exhibits.

Additionally, you should also stop by the Old City Bridge. It’s a classic Trondheim landmark famous for the red portals and scenic riverside views. But for the best city views, you’ll want to head to Tyholttårnet, a radio tower in Tyholt. With an observation deck and a great restaurant, this is the best place for panoramic views of Trondheim.

Read here for more interesting things to do in Trondheim, Norway. 

Mosjøen is a small town in central Norway and the oldest town of the Helgeland region. The entire town lies on the bank of Vefsnefjord so the views are out of this world no matter where you look. Just like Bergen, it is surrounded by mountains with plenty of exciting hiking trails for you to explore.

Mosjøen is truly a great destination for adventurers. With countless hiking trails, via ferratas, and a thrilling 700-meter zipline, this is a great place for those who seek an adrenaline rush.

The small Norwegian town is also home to several interesting museums that explore the history and culture of the region, so be sure to visit those if you’re interested in learning more about this part of Norway. Additionally, one of the biggest aluminum plants in Europe is located in Mosjøen and it happens to be quite popular with tourists. It’s not possible to tour the plant, but you can always go check it out just to see how incredibly big the place is.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a town in southern Norway that’s popular for its amazing ski resorts. It gets the largest influx of tourists in the winter, meaning it’s going to be pretty much deserted in the summer. It’s a great place to be if you want to avoid the crowds of Norway’s busy cities, but still, have a bunch of interesting things to see and do.

Although the town is most popular for winter sports, there are still plenty of fun things to do in the summer. It’s close to three Norwegian national parks, so it’s the perfect place for hikers. Lillehammer in the summer is also popular for mountain biking, fishing, cycling, wildlife safaris, and horseback rides. If you enjoy being outdoors and exploring nature, you’ll love it in this quaint town.

You’ll also find a few interesting museums in Lillehammer, so feel free to do some indoor exploring as well. If you don’t have the time to see them all, at least visit the Norwegian Olympic Museum. It’s an exciting modern museum with exhibits that mostly focus on the Winter Olympics that were held in Norway.

Kristiansand

Kristiansand is a town in southern Norway popular for amazing beaches and one of the best zoos in the country. The Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park get more than 900,000 visitors every year, so you really should check out what all that fuss is about. There are all sorts of wild animals at the zoo from flamingos to cheetahs, as well as countless themed rides. This is a particularly fun experience for families with children.

You should also visit some of the museums in Kristiansand. The Kristiansand Museum is a great way to get acquainted with the town and its history, the Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden is a must if you’re at all interested in geology, and the SKMU Sørlandets Kunstmuseum is perfect for art lovers. The Christiansholm Fortress is also worth a quick stop if you’re into historical places and scenic views.

The town is also home to numerous sandy beaches, and it’s a very popular place for a more traditional summer vacation. Kristiansand is south enough that summers get very warm for Norway, meaning you’re free to walk around in lightweight clothes and sunbathe as much as you like. Even the sea temperature rises to a temperature that’s comfortable for swimming, and the many water parks on the coast really take advantage of that fact. The water parks are fun for kids, but adults will likely prefer the more peaceful sandy beaches with calm water and stunning views.

Go Island Hopping In Lofoten

Lofoten Islands are one of the best places to visit in northern Norway regardless of the season. There’s a lot to do and see here both in the summer and winter, and you should plan a longer stay in the area. The ideal Lofoten trip starts in the fishing village Å, which is the starting point of the E10 road that connects Norway with Sweden .

The fishing village is a great place to learn about the importance of fishing for the country and to admire some wonderful nature. But it’s a very small village and it only takes a few hours to cover everything worth your time here. The Lofotr Viking Museum in Bøstad is much more interesting. It’s situated in a reconstructed longhouse which is an interesting sight in itself, plus you get to see some recreated Viking ships and all sorts of archeological exhibits.

You should also stop by the Lofoten Aquarium. It boasts a wide variety of fish species, otters, seals, and many other maritime animals. Also, the aquarium is just a short drive from Magic Ice Lofoten, which is another great place to visit. It’s an ice gallery with all sorts of fun sculptures and all visitors receive a drink in an ice glass. Maybe skip this if you’re not a fan of sub-zero temperatures.

It’s worth noting that Lofoten Islands are also known for amazing hiking trails. From the trails of Reinebringen to the landmark Svolværgeita peak, the archipelago boasts so many hiking trails it would take you forever to explore them all. The trails vary in difficulty and length, so there are plenty of options for all skill levels. Some of the best hikes in the Lofoten Islands are Horseid Beach, Værøy, Nusfjord to Nesland, and of course the magical Svolværgeita peak.

Best Alternatives To Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands are spectacularly beautiful in the summer, but that attracts quite a few tourists. If you’d rather skip the lines and head to a less crowded location, check out some of these alternatives to the Lofoten Islands!

Image  courtesy of  Kent Wang

Røst is an island municipality in Nordland country. It’s not very popular with tourists, which makes it the perfect alternative to the busy Lofoten Islands. You can still enjoy stunning untouched nature but without all the crowds.

This place is particularly popular for birdwatching since the diverse landscape attracts many different bird species. But, birdwatching is most popular in autumn when various species start to migrate further north, using this quaint fishing village as a stop-over. The town does have some of the largest nesting cliffs in this part of the world, which are home to colonies of shag, cormorants, puffins , and kittiwake.

In addition to that, Røst has a surprisingly rich cultural life – at least for such a small place. Lundefestivalen is held here annually, and it attracts Norwegians from all parts of the country. The festival is usually held in the summer, so plan your trip around it if you decide to travel to Røst!

Bodø is a town south of the Lofoten Islands, in the Bodø municipality. It doesn’t get as many tourists as Lofoten, especially in the summer, so it’s a great alternative to the busy islands. There are loads of fun things to do in and near Bodø, and you can even go on a day trip to Lofoten Islands if you want!

Bodø lies above the Arctic Circle, which means you’ll get to experience the Midnight Sun if you visit the town in June or July. It’s a spectacular phenomenon, but it does make it a bit difficult to stick to a normal sleep schedule.

Also, Bodø is a great place to be whether you prefer to explore indoor or outdoor attractions. The town boasts several interesting museums and landmarks, the most notable of which is the Norwegian Aviation Museum. It’s a unique museum and a must if you’re ever in Bodø, with vintage aircraft (civilian and military) and an interactive workshop. There’s also the Nordland Museum with detailed exhibits on the history and culture of the area.

Nyholms Fort is another place in Bodø worth visiting. It’s just a short hike away from the city center and it offers beautiful views of the town.

When it comes to outdoor exploration, you’ll be happy to know that there are dozens of great hiking trails just outside the town. Keiservarden is the most popular hike in the area with two trails that take you to the top straight from the city center. More experienced hikers who enjoy a challenge will love the hike to the top of Per Karlsatind – we’re talking steep ascents, scramble, and exposed terrain. Other mountain peaks in the area are Litltind, Lurfjelltind, and Heggmotinden, but they’re just a few notable mentions out of dozens of worthy options.

Senja is Norway’s second-largest island and one of the best places to be in the summer. It’s a very scenic island with numerous hiking trails, viewpoints, and beaches worth exploring. You likely won’t be able to swim in the sea though, since the water temperature is a measly 11 degrees Celsius even in August. But you can ascend to the mountains above those beaches to experience some of the best views on the island.

And you can explore the many different mountains of Senja island! Segla is in the north part of the island, and it’s the most popular mountain in the area. It gets pretty busy in the summer, so maybe it’s not the best option if you came to Senja to avoid the Lofoten crowds. But it’s such a fun climb to the top with extraordinary scenic views that it’s definitely worth the hassle.

Other fun things to do in Senja include dog-sleigh rides, national park visits, and camping. Senja island has some of the best campsites in Norway , so be sure to check out the different options if you’re not opposed to camping. It’s also worth noting that Norway’s Everyman’s Right lets you camp pretty much anywhere you want, which is perfect for people who enjoy being in touch with nature.

See The Midnight Sun In Tromso

Tromso is a beautiful town in Northern Norway popular for the Northern Lights in the winter and the Midnight Sun in the summer. No matter when you visit Tromso, you’ll have lots of fun.

The town is above the Arctic Circle, which means that the sun doesn’t set during the summer. This causes the phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun that so many people come to Tromso to see. But the eternal day also means you can go on walks and hikes in the dead of the night and still have plenty of daylight.

One of the best things to do in Tromso is to ride the cable car to Storsteinen. The ride is short and exciting and the views along the way – and from the top station – are just incredible. On your way to the cable car station, you will pass by the Arctic Cathedral, which happens to be the most iconic building in Tromso. It’s definitely a worthy detour, especially if you enjoy modern architecture.

Tromso also boasts quite a few interesting museums, most notable of which are the Perspective Museum and the University Museum. The former is an art museum with local photography exhibits and the latter is a history museum with exhibits on local culture, archeology, and science.

The Norwegian town is also home to an exciting arctic aquarium, Polaria. The exhibits are both fun and educational, so maybe skip this museum if you don’t believe in climate change.

For some outdoor fun in Tromso head to Prestvannet. The lake is very popular in the winter for Northern Lights viewing , but the nature around the lake is much more beautiful in the summer. The animals come out and flowers are in bloom, making this one of the best places in Tromso for a scenic walk or a nice picnic.

Pulpit Rock, Trolltunga & Trollsfjord Alternatives

You’ve likely heard of these iconic hikes in Norway , right? Well, so has the rest of the world. They’re not the most popular hikes in Norway for no reason, and every summer hordes of tourists are drawn to these iconic locations. Check out the places below instead, if you want to skip the crowds. 

Oh, and by the way, you might have noticed a lot of things in Norway are named after Trolls? Well, you can learn all about the Norwegian Troll Mythology here .

Swim In Stavanger

Most people who come to Stavanger are there just to be close to Pulpit Rock. They rarely explore the town, which is a mistake because it’s beautiful and there are a lot of things to see in Stavanger ! And it’s located south enough that you can have a nice beach vacation.

The beaches near Stavanger are very popular among people who come to Norway for a proper summer vacation. The vast stretches of sand see a lot of sun during the day and the sea temperatures are usually in the comfortable 20s. Swimming, surfing, and sunbathing are all on the menu, as are horseback rides on the beach!

When you’re done soaking in the Norwegian sun, head to Gamle Stavanger. The historic city center features rows of white wooden cottages, and a stroll through this part of this city feels like traveling back in time. You’ll also find a couple of interesting museums in this neighborhood, most notably the Norwegian Canning Museum and the Stavanger Maritime Museum.

Fargegaten is another iconic Stavanger sight, but it’s very different from Gamle Stavanger. This street is lined with colorful houses on either side, with plenty of stunning murals to make it even more interesting. The cottages in this street are mostly restaurants and shops, so you can take your time exploring this Stavanger gem.

You’ll find the Norwegian Petroleum Museum close to Fargegaten, and it’s certainly a place worth visiting. The building looks like a small oil platform and it’s one of the most iconic buildings in the city. If you’d rather admire some older architecture, make your way to the Stavanger Cathedral. It was built in the 10 th century, and it boasts a mesmerizing blend of Romanesque and Baroque architecture. 

For another trip back in time, head to the Jernaldergården southwest of the city center. The entire place is a replica of an Iron Age farmstead, complete with farm animals, costumed docents, and plenty of interactive exhibits. It’s certainly an interesting place to check out, and it offers some gorgeous views of Stavanger.

Trollpikken

Image courtesy of SARAMAGMA , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Trollstunga gets really busy in the summer, so much so that it’s actually hard to enjoy the hike or the view thanks to all the other people who are around. But there’s another rock in Norway that resembles a different part of a troll’s body and it’s nowhere near as popular Trollpikken . The sight of the phallic rock is hilarious enough to make the 4.5-kilometer out-and-back hike worth every second!

It’s also a very scenic hike located in an incredibly beautiful part of Norway. The lack of tourists means nature is mostly unspoiled, with more flora and fauna than you’ll ever see on your way to Pulpit Rock. Also, Trollpikken is still close to Stavanger, so you don’t need to change your itinerary if you already made plans to go see Preikestolen.

Trollfjord is one of the most famous fjords in Norway, but it’s quite a hassle to see it. You can either get on a cruiser or hike over rugged terrain, and both options are going to be crowded. Check out Lysefjord instead – nature is just as beautiful, it’s close to Stavanger, and it’s nowhere near as popular as Trollfjord.

You can either drive to the mountains above the fjord and hike the trails to get some spectacular views or you can go on a guided tour. Boat tours depart from Stavanger harbor every day, and they’re a great way to see the magnificent Lysefjord. You’ll even see the Vagabond Cave and you’ll pass so close to the Hengjane Falls that you might get sprayed with the cold mountain water!

What To Pack For A Summer In Norway?

Packing for summer vacation usually means just throwing all your lightweight summery clothes into your suitcase. But that’s not really suitable for a trip to Norway – it still gets really cold there, even in the summer.

The temperatures in Norway can rise above 30 degrees Celsius in the summer, but the average high is still around 20 degrees in July. The average lows are between 10-15 degrees Celsius, depending on where exactly in the country you are. It’s warmer in the south and a lot colder north, especially above the Arctic Circle.

Also, it’s common for mountain peaks to be covered with snow even in July and August, and for mountain roads to be closed due to snow as late as May or June. If you have any interest in hiking, climbing mountains, and just exploring the more rugged parts of Norway, you will need proper gear. Pack waterproof and windproof clothes, woollen layers, and don’t be afraid to put a down jacket in your suitcase. And pack your bathing suit, especially if you plan to spend some time in Southern Norway.

It’s also worth noting that Norway sees a lot of rain in the summer months. It’s best to have an umbrella on you when you’re out and about because you never know when you’re going to get hit with a summer shower.

Traveling Around Norway In The Summer

Norway is more popular with tourists in the winter and you might struggle to reach some of the places featured here in the summer. They’re all easily accessible once you’re in Norway, but there’s a lack of direct flights and trains from other European capitals. This is especially true for the places above the Arctic Circle, which are most popular for Northern Lights viewings in the winter.

Flying is the best and quickest way of traveling to and around Norway. You can get a direct flight to Oslo, Trondheim, or Bergen from most major European airports, and from there you can reach pretty much any place in Norway you want.

Norwegians also get around on boats, but this is only a good option if you’re trying to travel between cities that are fairly close to one another. Norway has a long, rugged coast, and it takes weeks to traverse it in one way.

Driving is also an option – Norway has excellent roads and driving on them is a great way to explore more of the country. However, some roads in Norway can have winter conditions even in June, particularly mountain passes and roads on high altitudes. It’s not recommended to drive in Norway if you’re never driven in snowy conditions before, not even if you’re visiting in the summer.

It’s also worth noting that Norway’s length poses a challenge for most drivers. It’s around 1,800 from Oslo to Tromso – it’s a scenic road trip, but the cost of car rental alone is more than plane fare.

So, if you want to explore Norway cheaply and efficiently, domestic flights are your best bet.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Norway in Winter: Why It’s Worth Visiting

Looking for a reason to visit Norway in Winter? Look no further – here’s everything you need to know. 

Yes, Norway is idyllic during the summertime. But if you’re looking for something different, you have to visit in winter. 

Snow covers almost everything, making Norway an epic winter wonderland worth exploring – it’s a totally eye-popping, jaw-dropping experience.

Stick around as I take you through some of the most unmissable things to do in Norway in winter. 

Brilliant Things to Do in Winter in Norway

Chase the northern lights .

Okay, so I have to start with the epic Northern Lights. I mean, come on. A trip to Norway in the winter wouldn’t be complete without chasing this majestic phenomenon. 

Every year from September through March, northern Norway sees very little sunlight. That’s great news because it means you stand a good chance of seeing this colourful natural light spectacle dance across the arctic sky. 

Tip: book this epic Northern Lights chasing tour from Tromso for the best chance of spotting the beautiful aurora. Read Next: Impressive Northern Lights Hotels in Norway

Spend Some Time in the Capital, Oslo 

Oslo is Norway’s bustling capital, which means there’s a lot to do here, even in winter. Some highlights of the city include the Norwegian Maritime Museum , where you can learn about Norway’s long seafaring history dating back to the Viking era. 

If you travel to Norway in December, you’ll find Oslo a-buzz with the festive spirit. Snow, Christmas trees, and lights adorn the city — it looks like something from a fairytale. 

There are multiple Christmas markets throughout Oslo where you can buy treats and gifts and indulge in traditional mulled wine – glogg . 

Ultimately I think that one of the best ways to spend time in Oslo is by going on a walking tour , especially when it isn’t snowing in buckets. 

This will take you past some of the city’s iconic landmarks like the Nobel Peace Prize Centre (definitely dip inside for an afternoon if you have the time), The National Theatre, and Oslo Cathedral. 

Take a Winter Train Ride

One activity you can enjoy during the Norwegian Winter that doesn’t involve spending time outdoors and freezing your behind off is a scenic train ride. Norway has one of the best rail routes in Europe, covering over 2,000 miles of track. 

The most scenic and popular one is from Oslo to Norway’s second most popular city, Bergen. You can sit back and relax as you take in picturesque views of the country’s famous fjords, snow-covered mountain peaks, valleys, forests, and charming villages.

Explore Norway’s Famous Fjords

If you search for things to do in Norway, it’s highly likely a cruise on a fjord will pop up as one of the first things. And for good reason. Norway’s fjords are absolutely spectacular. Don’t believe me? Find out for yourself. 

Snow-covered mountains, towering waterfalls, and tranquil waters are just a few things that await you. Bergen is the” Gateway to the Fjords,” so it’s a good starting point to hop on a fjord cruise and discover Norway’s incredible outdoor landscape. 

Head to Tromsø

Tromsø markets itself as “The Arctic Capital” and the best place to see the Northern Lights, which is pretty bold if you ask me. But it’s a title that the city has every right to claim. Tromsø is a vibrant city surrounded by raw nature. 

So it’s the perfect escape for a city break not far from outdoor activities at all. It’s also the “Land of the Midnight Sun” during the Polar Night Season. 

While Tromsø is a popular spot to chase the Northern Lights, there are plenty of other things to do here. Try sampling some unique Norwegian cuisine, visit one of the city’s many museums, or tour the iconic Arctic Cathedral. 

Tip: Check out my guide on things to do in Tromso in Winter and discover more activities to add to your Norway itinerary. 

Meet the Sami People & Ride a Reindeer

The Sami are Norway’s indigenous people who live in the northernmost part of the country – they’ve lived there for thousands of years and carry rich traditions and history with them. The winter months in Norway are a great way to learn more about the Sami and their way of life. 

Reindeer sledding with a Sami guide is the perfect opportunity to have some fun in the snow and pretend to be Santa Claus for a few hours. It’s also a great way to see how the Sami herd reindeer, which they’ve been doing for thousa nds of years. 

You can also visit a Sami camp and see how they live, as well as enjoying a traditional hot meal – certainly most welcome after spending time in below-freezing temperatures. 

Travel Along the Atlantic Road

Now, it’s hard to beat a drive along the Atlantic Road if you’re looking for a scenic self-guided adventure. It’s been around for over 30 years and stretches five miles along Norway’s west coast. 

The Atlantic Road connects a series of small islands and inlets to the mainland via eight bridges. At first glance, it looks somewhat like a road roller coaster, twisting and winding as it makes its way from one island to the next. 

But it’s totally worth the ride as you explore this rugged and wild part of the country. 

Note: Drivers should be extra cautious in winter as the road can be quite slippery due to icy conditions. Make sure to fit your car with snow tires to handle the slick road. 

Spend an Evening in an Ice Hotel

You might have heard of the Ice Hotel in Sweden. Well, the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes is Norway’s answer to that. This is a seasonal hotel that’s rebuilt every year since 2006, made completely from ice and snow. 

Each room is unique, with fantastic ice carvings and special lights. If you can brave the cold, it’s worth spending an evening here. If you can’t, well, visit anyway to say you’ve been to a snow hotel. 

Pop into the ice bar or restaurant where you can enjoy a drink or meal served in an ice glass or plate. 

Try Some of the Best Seafood in Norway

Seafood lover? You’re in luck. Norway has some of the best seafood you’ll find in the world and, lucky for you, it’s usually at its prime during winter. Norway has over 60 000 miles of coastline, so there’s no shortage of spots where you can enjoy fresh seafood delicacies.

Think iconic Norwegian salmon, king crab, lobster, scallops, and cod. The Fjord Restaurant in Oslo specialises in seafood and other Norwegian dishes, and locals and visitors alike will often tell you it’s the best place to dine in the city. 

Go On a Skiing Adventure

While the Alps are usually most people’s preferred ski destination, Norway’s slopes give them a good run for their money. Norway has numerous ski resorts with endless ski trails and mountain plateaus. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro skier, there’s a trail for everyone. Apart from regular skiing, you can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowboarding. And, if you’re not keen on trekking out to the mountains, there’s the SNO indoor ski park just outside Oslo.

Complete with wide ski slopes, ski lifts, and everything else you would expect from an outdoor resort, SNO is open all year round to enjoy some fun in the icy powder. 

Explore the Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are one of the best places to visit in Norway. Not only are they a great place to spot the Northern Lights, but they have one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. 

Think towering mountains, fjords, and seabird colonies; there’s a lot that you can do here in winter. From fjord fishing, ocean rafting, and discovering Lofoten’s stunning arctic beaches, it doesn’t disappoint. These islands really are a hidden Nordic gem.

Oh, and I must mention that it’s a food lover’s paradise with various eateries serving fresh seafood and comforting bowls. Lofoten Island’s food is an excellent introduction to Nordic cuisine, so go in with an open mind and expand your palette. 

Tip: Check out my guide to the Lofoten Islands for a more in-depth review of what you can look forward to on the islands. 

Learn About the Vikings

Most of us know of the Vikings — fearsome warriors who terrorised the seas and built one of the strongest empires in history. Oh yes — apart from that, they’re also brilliant engineers, building impressive boats for long distance trips and battle. 

Visiting the Viking Museum in Oslo might pique your interest if you’re a history buff. Here you can learn everything you could ever want to know about these mighty warriors, from their rise to their downfall. 

Oh, and the best way to get there is via a shuttle boat, so you can feel like a viking yourself as you approach.

Visit the Old Wharf of Bergen

You might have seen those colourful houses perched along Bergen’s waterfront. Bryggen, the Old Wharf of Bergen, is one of the oldest ports in Europe and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. 

This port has survived fires and other devastating threats but still stands today, so for that reason alone, it’s worth visiting. During winter, you can stroll along the wharf area and discover loads of shops, restaurants, and cafés overlooking the waterfront. 

Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the best things you can do in Norway during winter. Whether you’re taking a cruise from Tromso or elsewhere, it’s a real treat. 

As you cruise around the maze of fjords, you’ll spot humpback whales, orcas, and other arctic wildlife sticking their heads out to say hi. 

Tip : Bring a raincoat! Whales like to breach, so there’s a good chance you will get wet if your boat is close enough. It will still be worth it though, I promise.

Practical Tips for Visiting Norway in Winter: 

• Wrap up warm If you’re wondering: “how cold does it get in Norway,” I can tell you that it gets pretty cold. Norway’s winter temperatures vary from one area to the next, but overall it’s going to be teetering on freezing. Expect temperatures from the minus regions to 8°C. 
• One of the main things to consider when visiting Norway in winter is the fact that there’s very little sunlight. On average, you might get about 6 hours, which could affect your itinerary because you won’t have much time to see and do everything. But this is great because it means you’ll get a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights. 
• While most city attractions are still open in winter, be sure to check ahead of time. 

Norway in Winter: Map

Norway in Winter: Read Next

• When to See the Northern Lights?
• Northern Lights Hotels in Norway
• A Guide to the Lofoten Islands

Unmissable Things to do in Norway

• Epic Ski Resorts in Norway
• Brilliant Things to do in Tromso
• A Foodie Guide to Lofoten Islands, Norway

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Winter or Summer - what was your experience? - Norway Forum

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Winter or Summer - what was your experience?

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I wanted to see if anyone had any advice or experience with going in the summer or winter and would be able to advise? (We are used to the cold and snow, and would most likely be doing public transportation, so we're not concerned about the winter driving).

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g190455-i550-k3785297-Please_post_your_reviews_here-Norway.html

November/December is generally not the best time to visit unless you plan to go to Tromsø to hunt for the Northern Lights.

In Nov/Dec the days are short with limited daylight hours. In the Western Norway it is windy and rainy.

If you would like to experiment the typical fjord scenery, the end of May through August is the best time to visit.

What should be clear is that summer and winter will be two totally different experiences, and different things to see and do. So it all depends on what you want to see and do. A lot of the things to see and do in the summer will be either not avalable or very different in the winter.

In winter it seems most tourists come to experience the stuff that you can only see/do in the winter. In particular the northern lights and along with that also other winter activities at the same time, and some just to experience winter conditions at all, since they live in parts of the world where there is no real winter. Then there is another group of visitors who come mostly for skiing, but this is probably a different market, mostly people from the rest of Scandinavia and some from the rest of Europe.

In general most seem to consider November and the months around it to be the least desirable time to visit Norway, for many different reasons, and I tend to agree. For winter it is generally better conditions in the later part of the winter, you will for example have more daylight and more favorable snow conditions. Still, there seems to be growing numbers of visitors even in November/December, but for the most part is seems to be focused on the northern lights.

In the summer most tourists come for the natural sights in certain parts of Norway, for example the great western fjord areas with their associated landscapes and sights, for which Norway is famous. These things will definitely be best enjoyed in the summer. If you visit the fjords in November/December, nature and landcapes will look very different from what you see in tourist brochures. Also you will have issues with potentially less than favorable weather, short daylight hours, fewer services for tourists, even more limited public transport, limited or no access to some areas/sights/attractions etc.

So visiting Norway in November/December is fine, as long as you are aware of what you get and what you do not get.

Days will for sure be short in Nov-Dec, nature and landscape is usually bleak and gray at that time, although there may be lovely days when first snow paints the rugged land white.

http://www.vossnow.net/Voss_Now/foto91801.htm

http://www.vossnow.net/Voss_Now/foto91806.jpg

http://www.vossnow.net/Database/storebilete%5Cfoto74410.jpg

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Which Is Best, A Winter Or Summer Norway Vacation?

While Alan was away attending his Spanish immersion course with Diverbo, I went back to Spanish conversation class for a few weeks.  There was a man from Norway, visiting Spain for a couple of weeks and he was in my Spanish class.  Of course during class we all speak of things we know, but in Spanish and he mentioned some amazing things about his country.  Naturally, I was curious and started to investigate a potential Norway vacation and found a  Norway travel guide .  I started to see if this could be a good Winter destination or would it be better to visit Norway in the Summer.

We’ve only been to Norway when changing planes at the Olso airport, so we didn’t get to see much at all.  It is certainly a country we need to explore more and with us trying to figure out where we are going to go for Christmas, I thought we should check this out too.  All I can say is “Wow!”, Norway is beautiful.

Norway Vacation?

First I need to investigate the best places to visit in Norway and the things to do, because I just didn’t know.  I had a blast doing my homework and documenting everything for future use.  You know me with spreadsheets, whenever I scope out a country, I of course add it to my travel spreadsheet.

I write down places to visit in Norway, links to sites, potential places to stay, estimated costs, and Norway attractions.  This is all in research just to see if it is where we want to go.  If we don’t go soon, at least the work doesn’t go to waste and I can refer to it in the future.  This time it was tough remembering the names and spelling, so I decided to write a post.  That way it will help me remember those names and save pictures of the beautiful Norway scenery too.

What is Norway known for?

Well it turns out there are quite a few things and I want to experience them all!  It was overwhelming how much is available to do in Norway and it may be a good place to spend a full month in the summer.  Oh the wheels are spinning now!

• Norwegian sweets & home cooking, like tasty waffles!
• Northern lights and amazing nature, with waterfalls, glaciers and more.
• We could stay in an ice hotel!
• The great outdoor activities, with skiing, hiking and the list goes on.
• The people, arts and culture.  We’d learn more about the vikings, trolls, design, and could also indulge in the museums and art.
• Creating some unique products.  Here are some famous things about Norway.

A fjord is a deep, narrow and elongated sea or lakedrain, with steep land on three sides. The opening toward the sea is called the mouth of the fjord, and is often shallow. The fjord’s inner part is called the sea bottom. If the geological formation is wider than it is long, it is not a fjord.

There are more than a thousand fjords in Norway, all along the coast. But most of the iconic ones – those you may have seen on the postcards, like the Nærøyfjord,  the Sognefjord , the  Lysefjord  the Geirangerfjord – are located on the west coast.

Norway Winter

Okay let’s be honest here, who doesn’t want to experience the Northern lights?  This is a dream of mine and I know there are many countries to choose from to see them, but Norway looks incredible too.  I also have Iceland and Sweden in the back of my mind for this future activity as well.  I am not sure about the short days and tons of snow, but it is something we should experience at least once, right?

Norway Summer

Summer is when you can enjoy the endless days!  Yep, Norway is so far north that the sun sets in Olso about 11 pm and rises about 4 am.  Of course the further north you are in the country the shorter that window of night becomes.   Bergen  lays a strong claim to being one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and is located along the southwest coast.  A celebrated history of seafaring trade down through the centuries has bequeathed to the city the stunning (and Unesco World Heritage–listed) waterfront district of Bryggen, with amazing buildings.

Search for the best places to stay for your Norway vacation

Booking.com

Public Holidays Norway

When you are planning a trip, it is always a good idea to know the local holidays.  We’ve been trapped before due to a holiday in Thailand and many other places as well.  Please find a list of public holidays for 2018.  If you would like to view for another year, just check here .

Here are more references to help you plan your Norway vacation too!

• Top 17 experiences in Norway
• The pretty inclusive  Norway travel guide
• Scenic routes in Norway
• 25 of the best things to do in Norway
• Norway Lingo , some phrases to get you started
• Norway experiences and souvenirs

Which would you choose for your Norway vacation, summer or winter?  Maybe even both?  Tell us why.

Have you visited Norway? Should this be on our Christmas destination list too?  Tell us all about it, so we can add your favorite spot to our research.

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12 Things You Should Know About Traveling to Norway in the Winter

November 16, 2022 by Silvia 51 Comments

After a lifetime of winter visits to Norway, and seven years living in what are some of the wintriest places in Norway, I’ve learned a thing or two about winter in Norway. Now, personally I think winter is when Norway is at its best, but it can also be a bit of a tricky season for travel if you’re not properly prepared.

So read through these tips and then go book yourself that winter trip to Norway!

It’s dark

November, December, and January are dark months in all of Norway though, unlike the north, southern Norway does continue to see sun during the winter months.

But don’t let polar night stop you from visiting northern Norway in the winter! We don’t get any sun in Tromsø from the end of November until mid-January, but I actually love this time of year here. It’s incredibly cozy, and the northern lights are extra spectacular. And while the sun doesn’t actually rise, it does approach the horizon, meaning we do get a few hours of beautiful blue light – like an extended twilight – so you will still be able to see the stunning winter landscape here. 

It’s good to remember the limited daylight hours when planning out your days, though the darkness can also add to your winter experience in Norway. You’ll see some amazing stars at night in the Norwegian countryside, and in the north longer nights mean more chances of seeing the northern lights!

It’s not actually that cold

Thank you, Gulf Stream.

Or maybe no thank you, as I’ve actually seen a lot of visitors disappointed at the lack of snow and frost when they’ve visited Norway in the winter.

If you want to see snow and experience some really cold temperatures, you’re best off heading inland and/or up into the mountains. And that even applies to northern Norway – Tromsø’s winter temperature’s often hover around zero. Last winter we had a huge amount of snow here, but the year before we didn’t have any snow on the ground for all of December! 

That said, sometimes even the Norwegian coast can get really cold, and you want to be prepared so bring appropriate winter clothing. I’ve even written an entire post for you on what to pack for winter in Norway .

It’s cheaper

Winter is off season in many places in southern Norway (not northern Norway), so it can be much cheaper! In fact, after record numbers of tourists last summer, the fjord region has been talking about seriously jacking up their summer prices to keep the crowds down. So if you’re on a budget winter is a much better time to visit!

Read also:  7 Ways Norway Isn’t as Expensive as You Think

A lot of roads might be closed

This is an annoying thing about planning road trips in Norway in the winter – just because you see a road on a map doesn’t mean you can drive it. I can’t seem to find information online about closed roads in English (anyone else know?), but they list the closed roads here and you can use Google translate.

Your best bet is probably to just ask locals about any routes you’re thinking of driving.

Also, on the flip side, I’ve found that sometimes Google Maps will route me away from roads in the summer just because they were closed in the winter. These tend to be Norway’s prettiest roads  too, so don’t rely solely on Google Maps!

You can’t see the northern lights everywhere in Norway

If your hearts are set on seeing the Northern Lights you’re going to have to head north of the Arctic Circle. I would at least go as far north as Bodø , but Tromsø would be an even better bet. 

I mean, sometimes we do get glimpses of the Aurora in southern Norway, but sometimes the UK gets glimpses too – it’s not the norm. If you want any real chance of seeing the Northern Lights then hop on a flight to Tromsø!  Read my guide to winter in Tromsø here . 

Northern Lights Guide!

If you do want to see the Northern Lights, I’ve written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning a Northern Lights trip, including the best places in the Nordics to see the Northern Lights, the best time to see the Northern Lights, my top accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the Northern Lights (including which apps I use), how to photograph and film the Northern Lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best Northern Lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here .   

Book your activities and accommodation early

A lot of people think of summer as peak season, but that’s not actually the case in many places in Norway, especially in the north.

Here in Tromsø peak season runs from November until the end of March, thanks to the norther lights. And since Tromsø is a fairly small city, often every single hotel room here will be fully booked. It can even be hard getting a dinner reservation sometimes! And the same goes for northern lights tours and other winter activities. 

So if you’re visiting Norway in the winter, I would definitely try to book everything as early as possible. You can book your accommodation here , your northern lights tours and winter activities here , and rental car here . 

This isn’t the time for camping

If you’re traveling to Norway on a budget try Couchsurfing or Booking.com .

Read also: How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Norway

If you’re traveling with a group of friends in the winter, then I’d highly recommend renting a cabin in the mountains, which is what most Norwegians do. You can usually book these cabins on Booking.com – a lot of them will be called “Hyttegrend.”

Or if you want a bit more luxury you could stay in a mountain hotel, like this one by Gaustatoppen, for a very traditional Norwegian experience.

February and March are the most beautiful months

December can often be hit or miss with snow and is very, very dark, while January is  cold .

I’d say February is the best time to visit Norway for a true winter experience, whereas if you want milder weather with still lots of snow (at least in the mountains) then March is a good bet.

Read also:  Norway’s Prettiest Winter Landscape

Easter is a huge ski holiday

That’s right, forget egg hunts on grassy lawns and pastel spring dresses, in Norway Easter is all about skiing!

The Easter holidays are a huge deal in Norway and definitely worth experiencing – the mountains are full of people, parties, concerts, and fun activities over Easter – but keep in mind that it can get a little crowded as well.

If you’re going to be in Norway over Easter you’ll want to book your transportation and accommodation way in advance.

Read also:  The Longest Easter in the World? It’s in Norway

Everything shuts down over Christmas

One of the things I love about living in Norway is how seriously they take their holiday time here. But that also means that you shouldn’t expect to get anything done during holidays, especially over Christmas! Pretty much everything, including grocery stores and even some public transport, will shut down by 1 pm on December 24, opening again on the 26th or 27th.

So if you’re spending Christmas in Norway this year (yay!) get all your errands done and where you want to be before Christmas Eve and then enjoy a relaxing few days!

A lot of mountain hikes are closed

Guys, can I get serious for a second?

I feel like every week I’m hearing another story about someone visiting Norway and going on a hike in bad weather, or worse yet, a hike that is closed for the winter, and these stories never have happy endings.

And that’s my excuse for responding in all caps whenever someone emails me telling me that they’ll be in Norway in October and have always dreamt of climbing Trolltunga, and when the hike says it’s only open until September, you can still go on your own after that, right?

Like, sorry for shouting, but you should never, ever, ever ever ever go on hike in Norway that is closed for the season.

A lot of these famous, Insta-popular hikes in Norway are expert-level and out of mobile phone reception. And not only is the weather too icy and the snow too deep for these hikes in the winter, but the days are also far too short.

Cozy days in front of a fireplace in a Norwegian cabin look good on Instagram too!

  A photo posted by Silvia Lawrence (@heartmybackpack) on Jan 10, 2017 at 10:29am PST

Winter tires are a must

When I was younger my family would often fly to Germany before Christmas to visit some friends, and then we’d rent a car a drive up to Norway to see my grandparents.

And every time it was a disaster.

You, see in Germany cars are fitted with year-round tires. The problem is, Germany’s year does not include Norway’s winter.

If you’re planning a winter road trip up into Norway then you’re going to want a car with winter tires, especially if you’ll be heading up into the mountains. In the winter the roads here are covered with a permanent layer of snow and ice and everyone drives around not only on winter tires, but  studded winter tires. This is the law in Norway, so any car you rent in Norway will have winter tires. 

And while we’re on the subject of cars, if you will be driving here in the winter it’s good to keep water, a warm blanket, and snacks in the car just in case you get stuck somewhere. I also always have a wool blanket and shovel for those times my car gets stuck in the snow (if you put the blanket right at the front of the tires they won’t spin in the snow).

Read also:  How to Travel Norway on a Budget: Transportation

Norway travelers! Do you have anything to add?

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Rachel says

January 12, 2017 at 2:34 pm

It really surprises me how different the climate and temperature is when we hop over to Narvik from Abisko for the day. We’ve done it a few times now and we’ve gone from deep snow to mild, rainy weather. It’s like ‘hello Gulf Stream!’

Silvia says

January 14, 2017 at 9:13 am

Yeah that’s so crazy – it’s so far north!

November 19, 2022 at 9:25 am

Hi, I have been to Iceland in Feb and I love it!I am planning to go to Norway in winter..I would like to go further North like Tromso to see the Northern lights but also to see the landscapes and snow during the day. What’s the best month? Jan or Feb? Which places would you recommend?

November 27, 2022 at 10:37 am

If you want to see the landscapes I would visit in February, when the sun has returned. You can find my recommendations for places to visit near Tromsø at the bottom of this post: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/things-to-do-in-tromso/

ANANTH says

January 24, 2023 at 5:51 pm

Elena, This is ANANTH from Pune, India. The Feb is a better month to go to Norway, particularly, Tromso to see the northern lights. I will be travelling to Tromso on 23rd Feb 2023 from Mumbai, India via Helsinki. I will be there for a week or so. Tromso is the best bet to see the spectacle of northern lights.

Corinne says

January 12, 2017 at 4:57 pm

I’m heading to Norway for the weekend, and I just want it to be clear and pretty! I’m layering up!

January 14, 2017 at 9:12 am

Oh how exciting! It looks like you’ll have a good chance of nice weather 🙂

January 12, 2017 at 7:51 pm

Winter in Norway/Scandinavia: use the opportunity to ice-skate on natural ice! (Do ask a local for advice on where it it safe though…) It does not freeze all that much in the rest of Europe any more sadly.

Oh true, you can even drive on the ice in some places if you want!

January 12, 2017 at 8:13 pm

It’s so funny that the fjords are almost entirely visited in summer while everyone is headed to Tromso in winter. Summer here is totally off season and most tourists we get during that time arrive by cruise ship and only stay for a day so all the hotels are empty. Not that I would recommend a visit during summer anyway – I think the Arctic is at its best in winter but I guess, the opposite goes for the fjords 😀

January 14, 2017 at 9:11 am

Oooh really, I didn’t know that! I’ve only been to Tromso in the summer, but that was when I was like seven, haha. We’re thinking of going in June this year though! But you’re right, I need to make it up there in the winter too.

January 16, 2017 at 8:14 pm

Sounds great! Let me know if you’re going and want to meet up 😉

January 19, 2017 at 2:05 pm

Yesss I definitely will!

Puddin says

November 18, 2022 at 5:00 pm

Actually I am planning to hike Norway next year, so I would like to subscribe your blog as well.

Kate - Travel for Difference says

January 13, 2017 at 12:32 am

Norway is SO high on my list. Thank you so much for the wonderful tips. I’ll be sure to look back on this post when I visit X

January 14, 2017 at 9:10 am

Oh wonderful, I hope you like it as much as I do!

Sophie Nadeau says

January 13, 2017 at 8:00 pm

I swear I never had any real urge to visit Norway before I began to read your blog. Now I really want to visit; it sounds so fascinating! Also interesting to know that it doesn’t get too cold in the Winter; I was kind of picturing -40 haha!

January 14, 2017 at 9:09 am

Haha no, the coldest I’ve ever experienced here – high up in the mountains – was -25. Russia on the other hand…

Odd Andreas says

January 30, 2017 at 8:23 pm

On Finnmarksvidda the winther can be really cold. About Finnmarksvidda in Wikipedia, section “Climate” https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnmarksvidda

Mariette van der Nest says

June 26, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Hi, this has really helped me a lot!! Thank you. We are from South Africa and are planning to go to Norway January 2018. Starting in Oslo, Bergen, Tromso, Kirkeness, could you give advice about the availability of domestic flights? Should we book ahead of time? We plan to be there about 12 days – weather wise, what are the chances seeing the northern lights?

June 30, 2017 at 4:40 pm

Hmm you will have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights insofar as it will be really dark in January, but the weather is really unpredictable, especially on the coast, so it may be too rainy/snowy. Hopefully you will have good luck, just be aware that it’s not guaranteed. I would also book your flights ahead of time as they’ll be cheaper. It sounds like you’ll have an amazing trip!

August 24, 2017 at 10:36 am

Hey. Thanks a lot for all the tips. We are planning a trip towards late November and Tromso is definitely on the list, mostly due to the northern lights. What are the chances of us experiencing snow and northern lights towards the last few days of November and would you suggest a better time to visit?

August 31, 2017 at 11:10 am

You should have a very good chance of seeing the Northern Lights in late November, but less of a chance to see snow, unless you go up to the mountains. I believe there’s more snow in January and February there, though often down on the coast won’t have much snow.

Holly Skinner says

September 2, 2017 at 9:21 pm

Hi Sylvia, me and a friend will be in Norway during end of November too! So interesting you say there won’t be much snow in November? We will be renting a car in Oslo and want to slowly make our way to Trondheim to see the Northern Lights! Do you think there will be a lot of closed roads or will we be able to make it up? We’ll definitely be taking a stop in Bergen so that’s our starting point to go further north.

Thank you so much for all of your posts on Norway, they are so helpful!!

September 3, 2017 at 10:36 am

If you’re driving from Bergen up north you will have to avoid any mountain roads that close during the winter (only the really high mountain roads), but if you stick to the main route you should be totally fine. But Trondheim isn’t actually north enough to see the northern lights – it’s actually quite rare to see the northern lights from Trondheim. You’ll want to go at least up to Bodø (another 10 hours from Trondheim) to get a chance to see them.

Hope you have an amazing trip!

MADDALENA says

January 26, 2018 at 2:37 pm

Hi Sylvia! We are 2 couples under 25 and we’re planning a short trip to Norway in late February. We have only 5 days to visit it. We come from Milan, Italy, and we are sick of urban landscapes, so we want to visit mostly natural and typical places. We are thinking about Tromso (hoping to see Northern Lights). How long do you think we shoud stay there, considering the few days we have? Which other places do you suggest us to visit? and using what kind of transport? do you suggest us to rent a car o traveling by bus/ train? (obviously if we decide to visit Tromso we’ll reach it by plane).

Sorry for my bad english and for all those questions!

I really appreciated your advices and I hope you answer me soon!

February 10, 2018 at 6:40 pm

My name is John and I am from Canada. Anyway in November I will be traveling to Iceland, Tromso Norway and then backtracking to Alaska. Leaving on the 14th for Iceland and winding up in Tromso on the 22nd till the 28th. What are the chances of a bit of snow and seeing the northern lights?

Thanking you in advance.

Samuel Franklin says

March 16, 2018 at 4:44 pm

Hi Silvia. Thanks for the blog. I knew Norway is dark in winter, but Christmas time is my favourite season for travelling. Last Christmas I spent in Denmark and it was fabulous. The next year I’m planning to visit Norway, again in December. I’m gonna stay there for a month or even longer. So I’ll probably use Couchsurfing. Hope I won’t develop any sort of depression after being in darkness for a while… just kidding 🙂 What city would you advise for the best Christmas atmosphere? Should it be Oslo, or elsewhere?

sue shellard says

April 4, 2018 at 1:12 pm

Thinking of booking a cruise to go in search of Norther lights as a surprise for my hubby’s birthday in 2019, as I know its on his bucket list. Have been looking at moon phases as I was told it is more likely to experience the lights if it is NOT a full moon. Really want to go in November, and was thinking early November as the days are still slightly longer than at the end of the month. What is the chances of seeing them in early November?

April 4, 2018 at 5:39 pm

Early November is a really good time to go, you’ll just have to hope for good weather as there can be storms that time of year. But I agree that’s it’s good to go when the days are slightly longer. And I’ve still seen Northern Lights when the moon was bright, so it really just depends on your luck and how strong the lights are.

August 24, 2018 at 12:24 am

Hi Silvia, loving your posts. My boyfriend and I want to visit Norway for a week mid-October. We want to head as far north as Tromsø and are looking at different travel options. We love the idea of self drive but are concerned with weather/road conditions. What do you think?

September 20, 2018 at 8:47 am

Hi Silvia thanks for your information is helpful. We plan to visit Norway end of November and we plan to drive from lofoten to tromso. I’m wondering that weather is fine to drive for this long journey?. Appreciate if you give some advice

Amal Ibrahim says

September 24, 2018 at 6:44 pm

Thanks for sharing all this info. I hope to visit Norway someday as it has been on my list of travel destinations for some time now. I especially enjoyed reading about winter in your post. It’s so helpful.

November 18, 2018 at 8:29 pm

Hi Silvia, I am thinking about making Norway my next destination, so I’m bookmarking your blog 😉 Thanks for all the tips! The itinerary is still on the rough side, but I’ll probably do a 2 week trip in March, driving through the southwest and the fjordlands for the first week or so, and then taking a flight up to the arctic circle for 4 or 5 days to catch the Northern Lights and maybe Lofoten. From your experience, what’s March like for driving in Norway in general, and in the southwest in particular? I have zero experience in driving in the snow, so I’m a bit worried that Norway might come at me too strong. I mean, I’m used to wet, tough roads, but a permanent layer of ice on the pavement isn’t something that we see every day in Portugal. Thanks again! Cheers,

Pedro Ratto says

January 14, 2019 at 9:12 pm

Hi Silvia, nice blog !!! Congrats… I’m actually living in Copenhagen and pretend to visit Norway in the end of Feb and beginning of march. We are all around 33 years old and we are wondering to spend around 4 days, from Friday to Monday. What do you suggest for a couple and one friend, I really would love to visit the Fjords.

Thanks Best Pedro

May 10, 2019 at 1:36 am

Your blog is a dream when planning a trip to Norway (although my list of things I want to do is getting very long!) If I plan to come late March/ early April how many hours of daylight should I plan on having?

May 12, 2019 at 12:14 am

Glad to hear that! Daylight depends on where you’ll be, but you can just Google the place name + sunrise/sunset and the date and Google will tell you 🙂

Jessica says

August 1, 2019 at 12:41 am

Hi! Thanks for all of the tips! I am looking to plan a trip the last week of November and Lofoten is a must for us. I am wondering if you can give me any insight during this time of the year – weather, if you are able to hike, how much daylight do you get, northern lights possibilities.. sorry for all of the questions I am just concerned if it is a good idea scenic wise to go during this week. Any answers will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

Elisa Frag says

September 25, 2019 at 5:30 pm

Well i would love to visit Norway in winters but some of my friends told me that hoteling in Norway is little bit costly is it right?

October 1, 2019 at 11:36 am

Hi there, We’re heading for Norway 3rd – 7th January. We’ll be Travelling from Copenhagen and ultimately need to fly out of Oslo on 7th. Is it worth aiming for Tromso to see northern lights and maybe do dog sledding and then just fly down to Oslo? Or is this not the best time of year? Appreciate any suggestions. Last year we were in Bergen in summer and travelled up to Lom, which was amazing. Thanks, Maria

October 1, 2019 at 3:22 pm

Yeah I definitely think the North is best in the winter. I would fly straight to Tromsø and back, and totally skip Oslo, aside from your flight out.

Ankita says

October 5, 2019 at 5:00 am

Your blog is very informative and amazing! I was planning a trip from 5th nov 2019 for ten days. Do you think it would be a good idea? What can I expect?

October 7, 2019 at 7:22 pm

Loved your post! My (new) husband and I are considering going to Norway for our honey moon from roughly March 27 – April 8. We would love to catch some Winter up north..stay in log cabins, but also get some outdoorsy hikes in further south around the fjords. Is this an option do you think?

Thanks, Joan

Drumradio2.com says

February 26, 2020 at 10:37 am

I think I d better brush up on my Norwegian knowledge before I go, I m embarrassed to say I know very little about the country so thank you for saving me from some awful faux Pas!! I ve spent a lot of time in Latin America too, and I forget that other cultures need more space!

Pierre says

October 4, 2021 at 4:30 am

Hello My daughter currently in Norway up to December. The only period we can visit her will be during Christmas time. Can you tell me if it does worth to go in December as it will be dark all time. Is with the moon line we can see the landscape? Or the only activity will be to see the northern lights

October 4, 2021 at 12:56 pm

Yes, even during polar night in northern Norway we still get a few hours of daylight (except Svalbard) so you can still see a lot.

Renata Lazzatoni says

October 17, 2021 at 7:11 pm

I rally wanted to see killer whales but I only hve holidays on 20 december, is it too dare to go to Tromso to see killer whales and Northern Lights?

Northerner says

July 29, 2023 at 10:26 am

Hello January is cold. But is it worth going in January? We can’t go in February or March unfortunately

July 29, 2023 at 5:18 pm

Yes, I personally love January! Just bring warm clothing.

Philip says

October 3, 2023 at 6:54 am

Hello I am planning on going to Norway in November and would like more information about it Does it snow a lot around this time? Also, if I want to see the northern lights in tromso, where can I see them? Is there any public transportation there?

October 4, 2023 at 2:57 pm

You can read my guide to Tromsø in winter here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/tromso-in-winter-things-to-do/

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Summer in Scandinavia: five eco-friendly ideas to holiday like a local

The essence of a Nordic summer is to lean into a slower pace of life and embrace nature, from staying in a Swedish summer house to gentle canoe tours in Finland

Oslo: summer in the city

With swimmable harbours in Stockholm, Oslo, Helsinki and across Denmark’s cities, not to mention plenty of ways to enjoy the sea, from kayaking to urban fishing, there’s often a seaside air to Nordic cities in summer, and especially in Oslo.

One of the best summer activities is to tour the Oslofjord and its archipelago by boat – pack a picnic and set sail in search of hidden swimming spots and colourful island houses. Brim Explorer is one of the best options: an eco-friendly boat company offering silent tours powered by an electric motor (tours from £44). You can also show your love for the water by joining Mad Goats in their fjord clean-up operations every Sunday; participation gives you access to one of their saunas for free and a free burger at the end.

There’s a growing art scene to discover around the harbour. The National Museum is showing an unmissable exhibition by Sápmi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba focused on the environmental struggle and climate issues seen from an indigenous perspective, until August. Afterwards, stroll around the harbour promenade past the opera house, and visit the Munch Museum . There is a new family-friendly beach, Operastranda, by the Opera House this year; it’s also great to swim at the Sørenga seawater pool . Stay at the eco-conscious Oslo Guldsmeden , a Nordic-Balinese hotel in the Vika district from £100 a night.

Explore Denmark ’s sunniest isle

Bornholm is officially the Danes’ favourite holiday spot (as voted for last year in the Danish Travel Awards). Reachable by bus and ferry or hydrofoil from Copenhagen, it’s known as the country’s sunshine island: Svaneke, a charming harbour town on the west coast, is the sunniest spot in the whole of Denmark.

There’s no need for a car: you can get around relatively easily by bike and bus to explore fishing villages and small towns such as Gudhjem, known for its national cooking competition , and sunny Svaneke, in search of the best ice-cream, smoked herring and locally brewed beer. Bornholm has an artist colony vibe reminiscent of parts of Cornwall and is well known for its ceramics. You can find small workshops and galleries dotted around its villages, and especially in the town of Nexø, where there is a ceramics school. Beaches are wide, sandy and beautiful – especially child-friendly, dune-backed Dueodde, which Lonely Planet recently listed as one of the 20 best beaches in Europe .

New this year, Eco Beach Camp offers glamping from about £150 a night (sleeping two to four) on the beach just steps from the island’s Michelin-starred Kadeau restaurant, known for its focus on hyper-local, sustainable food. Or rent a summer house through firms including Novasol and Dancenter where rates start from about £300 for a week’s stay. It’s expected that you’ll bring basics with you, including bed linen.

Norway’s Arctic hiking route

Culture and nature come together on Norway’s longest hiking route this summer. The 400-mile Nordlandsruta , which runs along the Norwegian-Swedish border, will be joining in the celebrations to mark the Arctic city of Bodø’s year in the spotlight as one of 2024’s European Capitals of Culture. There are a range of artist-led events in cabins along the trail, and activities include poetry and portrait workshops and a mobile perfumery making scents from the herbs that hikers pick along the route.

Evening entertainment includes campfire cooking, improv theatre and Sápmi lassoo throwing. It also plays into another key Nordic travel theme: friluftsliv , a love of the great outdoors. Norwegians love to hike and there is an extensive network of trails, with hiking cabins along them, across the country.

It’s a beautiful hike – whether you’re in the region for the celebrations or not – passing through the Arctic Circle, Laponian Area world heritage site , national parks and Sápmi cities. From meadows filled with wildflowers to snow-capped mountains, reindeer-herding plateaux and raging rivers, it has all the drama you’d expect of this northern landscape. There are 43 unstaffed huts on the route – you’ll need a key from Norwegian trekking organisation DNT to use them.

To walk the whole route would take around six weeks, but it’s broken down into eight smaller stages for those with less time. For ramblers with an eye on reindeer herding and Sápmi husbandry, the 57-mile stretch from Raudlia to Susendalen treks across two valleys and past the hat-shaped Hatten mountain while the 45-mile section from Bolna to Umbukta skirts the sacred Sápmi mountain of Auronasen, silver mines and a glacier. Weekend hikes along the trail are also possible from Narvik and Bodø.

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Finland’s peaceful waterways

If you like lakes, islands and trees, Finland is the place for you – it is the most forested country in Europe and has more bodies of water than any other country in the world . In the Kainuu region in the east of the country, it’s easy to get away from the crowds for pure immersion in Nordic nature.

Nature Travels offers self-guided canoe tours in the region where you can camp wild along the route, fish for your supper and go at your own pace. The pick of the bunch is a remote adventure on the Tar Route (from £154 per person, for three nights/four days, based on two people, including all equipment and transfers to start point), the historic route once used to transport tar to the Baltic Sea. Instead of tar, your cargo will be just yourselves, your tent and enough food for a four to eight-day tour of quiet waterways, short and easily bypassed rapids, and protected islands.

Along the route you might spot moose, foxes, owls or even eagles. Stop to fish for your dinner, cook it on an open fire and retire to a lean-to shelter or tent in the evening. Look out, too, for island saunas, dotted along the route, where you can ease the tension in your back and arms after a hard day’s paddle. Don’t forget to pack insect repellent: Finland’s forests are known for their pesky flies.

This route commonly starts from Kuhmo, accessed by train and bus from Helsinki, while Helsinki itself can be reached by ferry from Stockholm if you prefer not to fly.

Stay in a Swedish summer house

It’s traditional in this part of the world to spend at least part of the summer in a “summer house” (actually more of a simple cabin) in nature. The essence of summer house life is leaning into a slower pace of life: read a book under a tree, bake a cake, a gentle walk. It’s about living in harmony with nature, too, and embracing the joys it offers, including sea swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.

The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most accessible and popular summer house destinations. Access is via one of the many public ferries (one-way trips from the city pier cost up to £14 depending on the location). It’s as easy as taking a bus.

The region is protected by the Archipelago Foundation , which preserves public access to land and water in the area, and has a wide range of characterful accommodation spread all over the islands. They include a 19th-century former customs house on the remote and rocky island of Huvudskär, remade into a rustic youth hostel (room rates from £186 for a four-bed room), as well as summer cottages on the activity-packed southern island of Utö, where two-person cabins start at around £338 for a week in high season.

Summer cottages usually require you to bring bed linen. Depending on which island you choose, you might need to bring all your supplies for the week too. Peak season for Scandinavia is typically July – travel in August for slightly reduced rates.

Copenhagen-based Laura Hall writes the Modern Scandinavian newsletter

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