Located in Northern Europe, Norway is a stunning country that shares the Scandinavian Peninsula with Finland and Sweden. The country is known for its natural beauty that attracts people in all seasons. You will find something new in Norway, whatever season you visit.
People have different views on the best time to visit Norway. Some love it covered in snow, and others love its summer vibes. To know the best time to visit Norway, you need to get an overview of the place through the lens of different seasons.
So, let’s get started.
When is the Best Time to Visit Norway?
The mountains are covered in snow in winter; the summer breeze soothes the skin; the blooms in spring and the slow beats of autumn are all unique in their way.
But if you are looking for the best time to go to Norway, then you need to dive deeper into your research.
Peak Season
The peak season in Norway, when tourists from all over the world visit the country, is during the summer season. From June to August, the temperatures in Norway become bearable after chilling winters, and tourists start streaming in.
You will find most tourist attractions packed with crowds during these months, but it is also the best time to see Norway in its glory.
Off-Season
Norway's winters - December to February - are harsh. Snow covers everything, and people prefer to snuggle in blankets.
During these months, tourist attractions see the fewest crowds of the year. But if you are a winter lover and would enjoy snow adventures and fewer crowds, then visit Norway in winter.
Shoulder Season
Shoulder season in Norway is during the spring (March to May) and autumn September to November), when there are fewer crowds at tourist attractions.
The weather during these seasons is pleasant and not extreme at any level. If you enjoy travelling in less crowded spaces and cannot stand the harsh winter, then travelling to Norway during these seasons would be right for you.
Month-by-Month Norway Travel Guide
Norway in December to February - Winter
The winter in Norway is like no other place in the world, though the temperatures go extremely low, around -6 to 7 degrees Celsius. But if you love winter, you will love this season. This is also the Norway Northern Lights best time, and you get to see some majestic views.
The whole country is covered in snow, and while a few roads and paths might be closed during the winter, you can enjoy many other tourist attractions.
Events and Festivals: If you are going to Norway in winter, then look out for the Ice Music Festival held in the alpine resort town of Gelio during February. You can also enjoy the Northern Lights Festival in Tromso and Roros Martnan, which is known as Norway's largest winter festival.
Best Places to Visit: The best places to enjoy your winter in Norway are Oslo, Lofoten Islands, Alta, Alesund and Svalbard. Moreover, you must visit the Arctic Circle of Norway to experience the true beauty of winter. Here, you will enjoy the beautiful Norway Northern Lights best time.
Best Activities to Do: Winters in Norway are the best time to indulge in some fun snow activities, such as dog and reindeer sledging, skiing, and snowboarding. You can also enjoy the unique experience of staying in the Snow Hotel.
What to Know Before Visiting: Before you plan your trip to Norway in winter, you must make sure to book your hotel accommodation in advance, as most hotels might be closed due to winter. Moreover, pack your heaviest sweaters and winter wear, as winters in Norway are harsh and can get worse with changes in weather.
Norway in March to May - Spring
If you want to enjoy Norway's nature in full bloom, then the best time to visit Norway is March, April and May.
These are the months when the snow starts melting and the flora and fauna of Norway start blossoming. The rivers start flowing, and you will witness greenery and the commencement of new life after harsh winters.
Events and Festivals: Visiting Norway during the spring season has its benefits; you can enjoy some of the best events during your trip. For example, you can attend the Stavanger Vinfest to enjoy the best food and wine in Norway, take part in Constitution Day celebrations on 17 May, and attend the Bergen International Festival starting in the later month of May.
Best Places to Visit: Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the scenic views of fjords in Norway. You should also take a relaxing cruise from Trondheim to Bergen and enjoy the coastal beauty throughout your journey.
Best Activities to Do: As the snow melts off, tourists can indulge and enjoy water activities in rivers and waterfalls. You can go on a kayaking or rib boat tour and bask in the beauty of Norway. These activities give you a boost of serotonin and double your adventure.
What to Know Before Visiting: Norway celebrates the spring season heartfully; locals host parties and dress up in beautiful spring colours. If you want to attend such festivals and spring activities, make sure to book your tickets in advance.
Norway in June to August- Summer
Summer is the best time to travel to Norway, and people from all over the globe come during this season.
Summers in Norway open the gates to all the tourist attractions; it is the best time to enjoy all the fun activities and explore the country.
The weather during this season remains around 17-18 degrees Celsius, which makes it ideal for tourists to enjoy their trip without worrying about extreme weather conditions.
Events and Festivals: If you visit Norway during summer, you must participate in the Norwegian Wood Festival. You can also take self-drive tours to explore the country at your own pace. Enjoy great music in Oslo’s music festivals or learn about Norwegian culture by becoming part of the Riddu Riddu Indigenous festival.
Best Places to Visit: Summers bring long days, which are ideal for long drives, during which you can explore the country. Start your journey from Oslo and head towards the west. Make sure to visit the Lofoten Islands to enjoy adventure activities like kayaking, rowing, etc.
Best Activities to Do: The summer season in Norway is ideal for indulging in some water activities like swimming, kayaking in waterfalls, cycling along the roads, fishing and much more. Moreover, if you go to Bergen, then you must enjoy the Mt Ulriken zipline to see the city from a different perspective.
What to Know Before Visiting: Summer is the ideal season for exploring Norway. If you plan to do long hikes, make sure to wear hiking boots. Moreover, it is advised to take light winter clothes as the evenings can get chilly.
Norway in September to November- Autumn
The Autumn season in Norway transforms everything; the lush green beauty is transformed into shades of yellow and red fiery leaves.
From September to November, Norway sees a drop in tourists, and for people who enjoy travelling in quiet places, it is the best time to visit Norway.
Events and Festivals: When visiting during the autumn season, you can see some significant events, such as the Bergen International Film Festival, which is held at the end of September. If you want to enjoy some new music, then attend the Dark Season Blues held in Svalbard every October.
Best Places to Visit: Exploring the cities during this weather is an experience in itself. You can visit museums, visit Oslo and Bergen and explore the iconic Norway in a Nutshell journey. Autumn is the right season to see the sea life; thus, you can take a cruise from Havila to Kirkenes and enjoy the coastal views.
Best Activities to Do: These months are ideal for indulging in kinking activities; you can hike at Pulpit Rock, one of the most famous hiking points in Norway. If you want to experience something out of the ordinary, then do visit Northern Norway to experience the beautiful Aurora Borealis.
What to Know Before Visiting: During the autumn season, there are few tourist visits, so you need to plan things to avoid any inconvenience. Moreover, travel with waterproof bags during the hikes as there might be few chances of rainfall.
Do I Need Travel Insurance For Norway?
Yes, you will need
Schengen travel insurance for Norway. Norway is a part of Schengen countries; thus, every non-EU traveller must get appropriate travel insurance to enter Norway.
However, international travel insurance is not just crucial for entering Norway. It also includes covers such as lost
baggage insurance, medical emergency cover, trip cancellation cover and personal liability cover.
With Reliance General Insurance, you can choose from a wide range of insurance policies and customise them to meet your coverage needs.
So, to protect yourself from unforeseen situations, make sure to get the right
international travel insurance before your Norway trip.
Summing Up
Norway is a beautiful destination to add to your bucket list of must-visit places. Its snowy mountains and lush green forest adventure activities appeal to travellers. But if you are looking for the best time to travel to Norway, then the months of June to August are suggested.
Overall, you can visit Norway in any season and enjoy something unique every month. Just make sure to do your research well before going to a new country, and enjoy your trip once you reach it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest month to visit Norway?
If you are looking to travel to Norway on a budget, plan your trip in May, early June, or late August to September. These are considered off-season, and you might get reasonable travel offers.
What is the best way to tour Norway?
The best way to travel throughout Norway is to take public transport, rent a car, or cruise to enjoy the coastal views.