When to Visit Norway

The best time to visit Norway is during the shoulder seasons, in spring (between May and June), and fall (between September and October), when the weather is amazing and there aren’t that many tourists. The summer high season between June and August is also fabulous, with lots of events, warm weather, and long days. However, the Northern Lights are best seen at higher altitudes and are mostly visible during the colder months, between September and March. A trip to Norway has much to offer tourists — from the architectural marvels in Oslo to the famous fjords, and the stunning northern lights that make the entire country seem like an otherworldly wonderland. Many of Norway’s charms are off the more minor roadways and into the quaint little towns.Find out in this article what the weather is like and when is the best time to travel to Norway.

If you are used to the first month of the year being a disappointment, you have obviously not discovered touring Norway in January. Snow covers much of the inland areas of the country during this time of year, while fjords remain as beautiful as ever. Plus, there are plenty of winter sports to get the adrenaline flowing and the Northern Lights above the line of the Arctic Circle are beginning to hit their stride too. Join us for everything you need to know about Norway in January right here.

At first glance, Norway might not seem like an ideal vacation destination for February. But look a little closer and you will find the most romantic month of the year has a lot going for it in this Scandinavian country. Full of local festivals and still covered with a soft blanket of snow (especially in the northern regions), a trip to Norway in February also offers a chance to catch the elusive Northern Lights. Is there anything more romantic than that? Read on for more details.

A harbinger of spring, the month of March offers pleasant weather conditions with plenty of sunshine. Discover the wonders of Oslo and take a train to some of the country’s most famous fjords. If you are interested in outdoor activities, you might want to take part in winter sports festivals that are held in the mountains between Oslo and Bergen. Else, explore Museum Island and Akershus Fortress or enjoy epic adventures in the Arctic region.The sky is the limit on a trip to Norway in March.

Spring dawns in Norway in April and the whole country comes to life. There is a newfound joy and vigor everywhere. The warm weather conditions create an ideal setting for outdoor adventures, while the Easter holidays add to the atmosphere. This is a great time to marvel at the iconic sights of Oslo, wander across the coastal city of Alesund, and take in the beautiful landscapes of Bergen and Geirangerfjord. Regardless of where your heart decides to explore in Norway, April offers the ideal conditions for a memorable vacation.

With longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and a flurry of festivals to fill your itinerary, it is no wonder that a trip to Norway in June is popular among travelers. The sun barely sets in the sky during the summer months – a phenomenon that gave this Scandinavian country its popular title, the Land of the Midnight Sun. Set off on outdoor adventures while the weather is warm. Go island-hopping, cruise past fjords, hike in national parks, or dive in the peninsula’s waters – the choice is yours.

With the warmest temperatures and longest days of the year, a trip to Norway in July is a crowd favorite. And if you are prepared to jostle with tourists, especially in popular destinations, summer offers spectacular weather that is perfect for outdoor activities. Cruise through magnificent fjords, explore the Lofoten Islands or go on day hikes to any of the country’s majestic peaks. You will find plenty to do in Norway in July and longer days guarantee that you will never run out of time.

August is the tail end of summer in Norway. The weather across the country during this time of year is as spectacular as ever, and exploring Norway in August means discovering its highlights before the infamous Norwegian chill rears its head. Longer days and warm temperatures offer endless opportunities for outdoor excursions. However, be prepared for high-season crowds and skyrocketing prices. This is also the perfect month for scenic hikes in fjords as well as surfing, fishing, and island-hopping. Similarly, several major festivals like the Bergen Food Festival and the Nordic Light Photo Festival add flavor to the month.

A trip to Norway in September sees long daylight hours and relatively warm temperatures, even though summer has given way to fall. The high season has just ended and most of the crowds have dispersed. So take this time to explore Norway’s most popular destinations. Explore fjords, hit the beaches, go hiking, or amble around Norway’s well-loved cities like Oslo, Tromso, and Trondheim. Bergen’s renowned annual food festival also happens this month, an excellent treat for foodies.

Norway’s vibrant autumnal hues bloom to their fullest in October, and as days become shorter and nights longer, the stunning northern lights put on a dazzling display in the Arctic Circle. Luckily, the cold-averse crowds have thinned out as the temperature dips, offering more breathing space to explore the country’s top destinations. Now is a great time to explore Norway and its cultural gems, ski on snowy slopes, or tour its fabled fjords.

A trip to Norway in November is a mixed bag. Deep into the autumn season, you will see sun, snow, rain, hail, and darkness compete for attention. The weather can be chaotic, but the sights are still splendid as autumn colors are in full bloom during this time of year. And with crowds at their fewest, now is a great time to visit the country’s top cities like Oslo and Bergen, head north to spot the northern lights, sail the Arctic waters, or explore the west fjords. If you are planning on shooting the Tromsø Northern Lights by night, make sure you go well prepared.

Norway is a winter wonderland full of delights in December. Attractive old towns in the southern part of the country, such as Bergen, take on an even more impressive appearance with the run-up to the Christmas and new year celebrations during this time of year. While in the north, snow provides no end to outdoor activities, from skiing and reindeer-herding to capturing the magic of the Northern Lights. So while it may be time to slip on your thermals, there is no denying that a trip to Norway in December is a must.

Norway is a stunning destination to visit during summer when the daylight hours are long and temperatures are mild. From the iconic fjords to towering mountains and serene lakes and rivers, a trip to Norway during summer offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Explore the popular fjords including Sognefjord, Nærøyfjord, and Aurlandsfjord. Indulge in popular summer activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. With up to 18 hours of daylight, you will have plenty of time for sightseeing and activities in Norway in summer, which typically lasts from June to August. The season is also perfect if you want to see Norway’s popular summer festivals and events. Summer Solstice Festival, Oslo Jazz Festival, and Viking Festival are among the most popular festivals that take place in Norway during summer.

Norway transforms into a winter wonderland between mid-November and April, offering a range of tourist attractions and activities. As temperatures drop and snow blankets much of Norway in winter, nights also get darker and longer, a perfect condition for witnessing the magical Northern Lights dance across the night sky. While days are comparatively shorter, you will have plenty of time for sightseeing and activities. Take a winter fishing trip in Lofoten Islands, go on a majestic fjord cruise, or enjoy winter-based activities like skiing, ice fishing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. There is never a dull moment when you take a trip to Norway during the winter months.

If you want a taste of the real Norway, May is a fantastic time to book your trip. This is the time when the locals truly come alive after a long cold winter, enjoying their first cold beers in the sun and celebrating everything Norwegian on Independence Day (May 17th). The natural environments in Norway in May are also something to behold, with trees in full blossom around the fjords, and waterfalls crashing down in impressive displays. To top it off, May is considered the shoulder season for travel, which means beating the summer crowds and potentially getting good rates on your Norway trip.