Norway in March: Weather and Travel Tips
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.
Norway weather in March
The weather in Norway during March is much more conducive than in other winter months, making this the best month to visit Norway for a winter getaway. It is also an ideal time to see the Northern Lights before they disappear until October. The average temperature in Norway in March ranges from -1°C to 4°C in Oslo as well as in central and northern parts of the country. The city of Tromso, located in the northern region, has the highest snowfall during March, making this the perfect location for your skiing trip.
On the other hand, temperatures across the western parts of Norway are less frigid than in other regions, which makes this month suitable for trips to coastal regions. But be prepared as the weather could change suddenly from sunshine to rain during March.
For a seasonal month-by-month rundown, read our best time to visit Norway.
Weather in Norway in March - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 1 | 2 | 6 | 9 | 16 | 20 | 22 | 20 | 16 | 10 | 4 | -1 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | -7 | -7 | -3 | 1 | 7 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 7 | 4 | -1 | -5 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 33.8 | 35.6 | 42.8 | 48.2 | 60.8 | 68 | 71.6 | 68 | 60.8 | 50 | 39.2 | 30.2 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 19.4 | 19.4 | 26.6 | 33.8 | 44.6 | 51.8 | 55.4 | 53.6 | 44.6 | 39.2 | 30.2 | 23 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 50 | 40 | 60 | 40 | 50 | 80 | 70 | 90 | 70 | 90 | 70 | 50 |
Why visit Norway in March
With fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and good weather conditions, Norway embodies the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. This is further complemented by the many winter festivals and contests held across the country during this time of year. Below are a few of the many reasons to visit Norway during the month of March.
- Fewer people: The period when the weather transitions from winter to spring is considered off-season in Norway, making this an ideal period to travel without being interrupted by hordes of travelers. However, the country sees an increase in footfall towards the latter half of the month.
- Less costly: As fewer travelers head for Norway in March, flights, hotels, and transportation services are the least expensive during this time. Hence, if you are planning a budget-friendly holiday or seeking the best value for your money, Norway during this month offers a great opportunity.
- Festivals: A variety of festivities are celebrated across Norway during March. Enjoy live concerts, carnivals, and winter sports at the Narvik Winter Festival. If you are a music lover, do not forget to include the Winter Chamber Music Festival in your itinerary. For food lovers, there is Stavanger Vinfest with authentic food and wine.
- Events and contests: An international Nordic ski race is held in Norway during this time of year. The other contest you might be interested in is the popular ski-jumping contest in Holmenkollen. From Europe’s longest canine sled competition to the World Cod Fishing Championship, there is much to anticipate during your trip to Norway.
- Auroras beckon: With ample dark evenings and longer nights, you have a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights before they fade until October. If you visit the destination during March, you are in luck to witness this magical natural display of lights in the sky.
Where to go and what to do
Discover Oslo, the capital of Norway which is famous for fascinating nightlife and delicious Nordic cuisine. Continue your journey to the architectural marvels of Bergen and Ålesund. When the outside is cold, embark on a culture tour as you browse through the items on display in the Viking Museum and visit the Museum Island. Do not forget to include the Vigeland Sculpture Park in your itinerary and explore the historic cathedrals of Trondheim.
Plan a skiing trip in the northern part of Norway and interact with locals to learn more about Sami culture. Head to the Arctic region to catch a glimpse of the marvelous Northern Lights before the end of the season. From trekking the Western Fjords to enjoying a cable car ride up Mount Floyen, you can experience a myriad of things during your visit to Norway in March.
For more ideas and insights, read our travel guide on how many days to spend in Norway.
What to bring
In general, you can expect cold weather conditions in Norway during this time of year. So remember to pack plenty of warm clothes, waterproof shoes, and lots of layers of clothing to stay warm. Also, make sure that you pack accessories such as gloves, woolen socks, and scarves.
Cold weather mingled with off-season pricing and fewer crowds make March an ideal time to explore every nook and corner of this marvelous country. Indulge yourself in winter sports and hiking adventures in the fjords to make your trip memorable. Connect with our travel experts in the country for a customized itinerary to Norway.
Take a look at our tours to Norway in March.
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Norway in January
