Best Time to Visit Norway
Last updated: November 9, 2025
Norway is a land of dramatic fjords, snow-capped peaks, and enchanting northern lights. From the vibrant streets of Oslo and Bergen to the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle, the country’s natural beauty changes with the seasons. The best time to visit Norway depends on whether you dream of hiking beneath endless daylight or chasing the northern lights under starry winter skies.
🌸 Spring (April – May): Blossoms, Waterfalls, and Fewer Crowds
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Norway as nature awakens after winter. Snow melts into cascading waterfalls, fjords come alive with greenery, and daylight hours increase rapidly. It’s perfect for sightseeing, photography, and road trips before the peak summer crowds arrive.
Highlights:
- Mild temperatures (5–15 °C)
- Snow-capped mountains and blooming valleys
- Great time for visiting Bergen, Oslo, and the fjords
- Lower prices and peaceful travel atmosphere
☀️ Summer (June – August): Midnight Sun and Outdoor Adventures
Summer is the most popular time to visit Norway. The weather is warm, the days are long — and in the far north, the sun never sets. It’s the ideal season for hiking, fjord cruises, and exploring the country’s breathtaking national parks.
Highlights:
- Pleasant temperatures (15–25 °C)
- Midnight sun above the Arctic Circle (late May to late July)
- Best time for hiking, kayaking, and camping
- Festivals, open-air concerts, and lively coastal towns
🍂 Autumn (September – October): Golden Scenery and Calm Exploration
Autumn transforms Norway into a landscape of gold and crimson. The air turns crisp, the summer crowds fade, and the forests glow with colour. It’s a perfect season for photography, road trips, and enjoying Norway’s cosy side — complete with scenic train rides and warm cafés.
Highlights:
- Cool temperatures (8–15 °C)
- Stunning autumn colours across fjords and mountains
- Quieter attractions and affordable hotels
- Early northern lights sightings in northern Norway
❄️ Winter (November – March): Snow, Skiing, and Northern Lights
Winter in Norway is a magical season of snow, auroras, and cosy charm. The country’s north becomes a wonderland of frozen fjords and star-filled skies, while ski resorts in the mountains offer world-class slopes. It’s the best time for northern lights hunting and winter adventures.
Highlights:
- Cold temperatures (−10 to 5 °C)
- Best time to see the northern lights (December – March)
- Excellent skiing in Lillehammer, Hemsedal, and Trysil
- Dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice hotel experiences
🇳🇴 In Summary
- Best for sightseeing and fjords: May – September
- Best for hiking and midnight sun: June – August
- Best for northern lights: December – March
- Best for budget travel: April – May and October – November
From the deep-blue fjords of Geiranger and Nærøy to the Arctic landscapes of Tromsø and the colourful charm of Bergen, Norway offers something unforgettable in every season. Whether you’re drawn by sunlight or starlight, this Scandinavian gem promises awe-inspiring beauty all year round.
Top Travel Tips for Norway
✅ GOOD NEWS: Schengen Area
Norway is part of the Schengen Area. This means visitors from countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport only needs to be valid for three months beyond your planned departure date.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Norway is Expensive
Be prepared: Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Prices for food, drinks (especially alcohol), transportation, and accommodation are significantly higher than in most other countries. Budgeting carefully and booking in advance is essential.
ℹ️ Currency: Cards are King
The official currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). However, cash is rarely needed. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are accepted almost universally, even for small purchases. It's a good idea to have a card with no foreign transaction fees.
✅ GOOD NEWS: Drink the Tap Water
The tap water in Norway is of exceptionally high quality and is perfectly safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up from any tap to save money and reduce plastic waste.
ℹ️ Allemannsretten (Right to Roam)
Norway has a traditional "Right to Roam," which allows you to hike and wild camp on any uncultivated land (like forests, mountains, and coastlines) for free. The main rule is to be respectful, leave no trace, and stay at least 150 meters away from the nearest inhabited house or cabin.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Power & Voltage
Norway uses the standard European Type F (2-pin) plug socket. The standard voltage is **230V**. Visitors from the UK, USA, and other non-European countries will need a travel adapter.
ℹ️ Tipping & Taxes
Tipping is not mandatory or widely expected in Norway, as a service charge is included in most bills. For exceptional service at a restaurant, it's polite to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%), but it is not required.
Things to do in Norway
Explore the dramatic Geirangerfjord, hunt the northern lights in Tromsø, walk the historic Bryggen wharf in Bergen, or take the scenic Flåm Railway. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: