When is the best time to visit Norway?
What each season offers, from the midnight sun to the northern lights.
Short answer
The best time to visit Norway depends on your goal: June to August for hiking and long light days, winter for snow and northern lights. Most visitors come in summer, when the sun stays up all night north of the Arctic Circle. Northern lights appear from late August to late March.
Why
- Visit Norway describes four distinct seasons and notes that most people visit during the summer months.
- The midnight sun can be seen in Northern Norway from mid-May to the end of July, and from late June to early August the nights never get really dark anywhere in the country.
- The scenic route between Geiranger and Trollstigen is usually open only from mid-May to October or November.
Details
Summer is the warmest season: in the 1991–2020 normal, July averages 17.7 °C in Oslo and 15.6 °C in Bergen, counting day and night. Visit Norway says coastal winter temperatures usually stay around zero, while inland areas are much colder. Spring (March to May) brings longer days, Easter skiing in the mountains and fruit blossom in May. Autumn (September to November) brings changing leaves, and in Bergen October to January are the wettest months.
Tip
Decide what you want to see first, then check opening dates for roads, ferries and tours before you book, as some mountain roads, such as Trollstigen, close in winter.
What may differ
The north follows its own calendar: in most of Northern Norway the sun does not rise, or only just, from mid-November to the end of January, and above the Arctic Circle spring may not arrive until late May or early June.
People also ask
- What is the best month to visit Norway?
- When is the best time to go to Norway?
- When should I visit Norway?
Sources
- Visit Norway: Weather and climateChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Seasons and climateChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Northern lightsChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Scenic route Geiranger and TrollstigenChecked at:
- Yr: Weather statistics for Oslo (Blindern)Checked at:
Information checked on 15 October 2026.
Choosing the best time to visit NorwayRelated questions
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What does 'there is no bad weather, only bad clothing' mean in Norway?
The saying means that bad weather is no reason to stay indoors, because the right clothes let you enjoy being outside in rain, wind or cold.
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Do I need sunscreen in Norway?
Yes, you need sunscreen in Norway, especially in spring and summer, on snow in the mountains and on the water, where reflection makes UV radiation stronger.
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Do I need ice grips (brodder) on my shoes in a Norwegian winter?
Ice grips, called brodder in Norwegian, are worth packing for a winter trip, because temperatures around freezing often leave pavements and paths icy.
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What shoes should I bring to Norway?
Bring sturdy shoes that handle rain and rough paths, and in winter warm boots with room for wool socks and a good grip on ice.