What is the weather like in Norway in September?
Early autumn weather, rain, northern lights and packing tips.
Short answer
September in Norway is early autumn, with average temperatures of over 12 °C in Oslo and Bergen and cooler weather in the north. In the 1991–2020 normal, September averages 12.2 °C in Oslo, 12.6 °C in Bergen and 7.8 °C in Tromsø. Leaves start to change colour, and the northern lights season has begun in the north.
Why
- Visit Norway says the southern part of the Oslofjord usually has the highest mean temperature in Norway in September.
- Bergen is wet in September: the 1991–2020 normal is 248 mm of precipitation, about three times Oslo's 82 mm.
- Visit Norway says the northern lights can be seen from as early as late August, with Tromsø as the main hub for trips.
Details
Visit Norway suggests early June or September for the scenic route between Geiranger and Trollstigen, since summer brings heavy traffic. Summery weather can last well into October in Southern Norway, but wind and rain can also make autumn wet. Days get shorter through the month.
Tip
Pack for both mild days and cold, wet ones: a wind- and rainproof jacket, thin wool layers and a light down jacket cover most situations.
What may differ
Autumn comes earlier in Northern Norway and the mountains: Tromsø averages 7.8 °C in September and Karasjok 6.2 °C. A single September can be several degrees warmer or colder than the normal.
Common misconception
You have to wait for winter to see the northern lights in Norway.
What actually happens
Visit Norway says you do not have to wait for winter: in Northern Norway the lights can appear from as early as late August, and in autumn they dance over Tromsø.
People also ask
- What should I wear in Norway in September?
- Is September a good time to visit Norway?
Sources
- Yr: Weather statistics for Oslo (Blindern)Checked at:
- Yr: Weather statistics for Bergen (Florida station)Checked at:
- Yr: Weather statistics for TromsøChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Autumn in NorwayChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Northern lightsChecked at:
Information checked on 15 October 2026.
Norway in autumn, winter and springRelated 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.