When To Visit Norway: A Monthly Guide

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.

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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

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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.

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January

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.

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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.

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Events: Northern Light Festival, Tromso International Film Festival

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February

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. 

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

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

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March

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. 

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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.

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

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April

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. 

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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.

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Events: Voss Jazz festival, Inferno Metal festival

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May

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. 

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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.

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

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June

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. 

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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. 

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

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July

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. 

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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.

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

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August

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. 

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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.

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

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September

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. 

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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.

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Events: Bergen Food Festival, Oslo Marathon

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October

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.

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Events: Lillehammer Jazz Festival, Insomnia Festival

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November

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.

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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. 

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Events: Rakfisk festival

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December

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

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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.