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Visit Norway in April

Travel to Norway in April to enjoy the iconic sights of the country with smaller crowds. Enjoy fjord cruises and scenic train journeys, taking in the beauty of the Norwegian landscape. Whether you want an express or complete tour of Norway, the travel experts at Nordic Visitor can design the perfect itinerary just for you.

Travel to Norway in April

April in Norway is when the season starts to transition from winter to spring. It brings slightly warmer temperatures and a lot more daylight hours.

April offers many exciting travel experiences in Norway, depending on where you go and what you would like to do. In the south, you can enjoy fjord tours, while in the north you could go dog sledding in snow-covered landscapes.

At this time of year, you could explore Norway independently via train rides and cruises . Or you could book a partially guided tour of Svalbard , a Norwegian archipelago located in the Arctic Circle.

The travel experts at Nordic Visitor will tailor an itinerary to suit you. Plus, when you book a holiday to Norway with Nordic Visitor, you get tried-and-tested accommodation, transportation reservations, daily breakfast, and many other benefits as part of your package.

Keep browsing below to explore ideas for holidays in Norway in April.

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Why book with nordic visitor.

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Experience the best of Norway in April

From northern lights to fjords, check out these best-selling tours to start planning your own Norwegian springtime adventure.

Express Norway - Winter

Coastal cruise & flåm railway, norway in a nutshell® classic - winter, norway in a nutshell® express - winter, norway in a nutshell® express winter - from bergen, capitals of scandinavia in winter, best of scandinavia classic - winter, train & cruise.

Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark

Capitals of Scandinavia & Finland Cruise - Winter

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland - Winter

Train, cruise & minibus, best of scandinavia - norway cruise & iceland - winter, norway in a nutshell® classic winter - from bergen, best of scandinavia & finland cruise - winter, expand your nordic adventure.

Why not visit Norway and Scandinavia in one trip? Check out these popular combination tours below.

Norway Travel Experts

As a travel agency founded in the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Norway. We offer a variety of tours – both independent and guided – that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own Norway travel experts. To ensure a stress-free trip, we handle all the local details for you – accommodation, activities, rental car, train tickets, cruise reservations and other specialist services.

Oh, and we can customise your itinerary! If you decide you want to add extra nights at a certain location, for example, your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be happy to make suggestions and modify your itinerary.

Different ways you can experience Norway

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Norway below.

Fjord Cruise & Train

Self-drive tours, guided small group, northern lights, lofoten islands, hurtigruten cruises, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Glad that we chose Nordic Visitor

Overall it was an amazing journey, we have enjoyed every step of it. We thank you for flawless instructions and all useful information which made our trip a convenient one as well. Thanks a lot for all your efforts. We are glad that we have chosen Nordic Visitor for this trip and surely will recommend to our friends and family.

Wonderful experience

Our experience in Norway was wonderful. Our hotels were centrally located, clean and offered great breakfasts to start each day. Our transportation connections couldn't have gone any smoother and the scenery from the train into Flåm and boat through the fiords was spectacular! All three of us felt this was an amazing experience.

I couldn't have planned a better trip to Norway on my own. We loved the structure and assurance of the itinerary while having the flexibility to explore on our own. Travelling in January, Nordic Visitor's emergency number gave us peace of mind in case of bad weather. The hotels were excellent and the locations were very convenient to public transportation and places we wanted to visit. The excursions were fantastic. Want a stress-free adventure? Let Nordic Visitor lead the way.

We had an amazing time in Norway!

We had an amazing time in Norway! The people could not have been friendlier, the vistas were breathtaking, and our Nordic Visitor helper, Irja, went above and beyond to help us plan our stay and even changed some reservations for us at the last minute when I realised that I had made a mistake. We would absolutely come back to Norway with Nordic Visitor again.

The trip was perfect

I took my mum to Norway for her 60th birthday in the hopes of seeing the northern lights. The trip planned for us by Nordic Visitor was perfect. We were glad of the days we got to spend exploring Tromsø and the excursions that were included allowed us to make some truly amazing memories. The snowmobile tour was the highlight of the trip, truly thrilling and topped off by seeing the lights as we arrived back to the camp. All the people who led our excursions were friendly and really knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend the Nordic Visitor service as a way to pack a lot of unforgettable experiences into a short time.

The perfect honeymoon

We couldn't have asked for a better honeymoon! We knew we wanted to visit Norway for our honeymoon but were overwhelmed with planning the trip on our own. Finding Nordic Visitor and working with Jemima was a godsend! Jemima helped plan us the perfect honeymoon with ease. Our trip was the perfect amount of planned activities and downtime/time to explore at our leisure. Travelling around Norway was a breeze with the help of Nordic Visitor and we cannot recommend the tours Nordic Visitor has to offer enough. We hope to use Nordic Visitor again on our next European excursion! Each hotel we stayed in was comfortable and spacious. All hotels had great breakfast buffets and were all centrally located in the areas we were visiting. We added a food and cultural tour in Bergen which was great! The food was delicious and our guide was knowledgeable and friendly! We enjoyed our time wandering the streets of Bergen and learning about the history and what everyday life is like. All the Northern Lights tours were fantastic! All the guides were knowledgeable and fun to talk with. Our airport transfer in Bergen was very easy and took a lot of stress off of us after a delayed flight.

Nordic Visitor did a great job with set up for accommodation and travel within the country. Tour guides were friendly, helpful and informative. I liked the way it was set up to visit popular destinations/excursions but also allowed time to explore on your own.

One of the best experiences we have had!

Absolutely outstanding. The tour and excursion organisation was perfect, seamlessly executed. The agent, Sindre, very professional in recommending and adapting the tour to our needs. One of the best family travel experiences we have had!

I would definitely use Nordic Visitor again

It was very easy to book via Nordic Visitor, the website is easy to use and communication with my appointed rep was excellent. They planned everything, the accommodation was beautiful, easy location for the other entertainment, all documents were sent to me in good time. I would definitely use Nordic Visitor again to book my future tours.

A true winter wonderland!

This was absolutely the trip of a lifetime. We enjoyed seeing a true winter wonderland! The combination of beautiful fjord views from the boat, chasing the northern lights, dog sledding, the Snow Hotel, so many different experiences - there were a lot of beautiful moments to take in!

Absolutely superb hotels were selected. The itinerary was very clearly laid out and easily understood. Every excursion or extra activity was expecting us. We had no issues with the vouchers. We definitely feel we experienced the best of Tromsø. Great communication when excursions were cancelled because of weather conditions. Nordic Visitor was able to reschedule us on a different excursion quickly and easily. Local tours selected by Nordic Visitor were excellent, well run and definitely highlights of the trip.

Perfectly planned

The tour was well organised. Everything was perfectly planned, from the tours to the transfers to the hotels. Suggestions on what to do/see/eat were also brilliant. The detailed guide made it very easy to find out where to go and how. The hotels were conveniently located in the city centre and close to transport links. The optional tours suggested were also perfect.

Travel Guide

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VISITING NORWAY IN APRIL

Whatever you’re wondering about visiting Norway in April, we’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions. Is April a good time to visit Norway? Definitely! What can you visit during this time of year? Read below to find out all the details from our local travel experts.

What are the best things to do in Norway in April?

In the spring, Norway is starting to wake up from a dark winter. In Southern Norway, you may encounter warmer weather allowing you to go for walks and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. In the north, the winter stays a bit longer, so you could admire snowy peaks.

As part of the shoulder season, April offers plenty of activities that straddle winter and summer, but with smaller crowds. It’s an ideal time to admire the sights from a train window and to cruise along fjords. Or experience the winter wonderland that is Svalbard. The choice is yours.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Norway in April:

  • Marvel at the majestic waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil
  • Explore the vibrant capital, Oslo
  • Cruise through Norway’s fjords in April
  • Board the iconic tour Norway in a Nutshell® in April for breathtaking landscapes
  • Sail with a Havila cruise or Hurtigruten coastal voyage along the west coast
  • See Arctic wildlife and experience midnight sun in remote Svalbard
  • Learn about Sami culture in Kirkenes
  • Spot puffins off the coast of Runde island near Ålesund
  • Attend the Stavanger Vinfest, a local food and drink festival

Good to know: The Norwegian experts at Nordic Visitor will make sure your itinerary is tailored to your taste. Add excursions like fjord cruises or snowmobiling to your tour or even shore excursions as you cruise Norway in April. You could visit charming Ålesund and the Lofoten islands.

Your dedicated travel consultant will book all your public transportation, such as train tickets and boat trips, before you arrive. Plus, you’ll get all the signature Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.

  • To travel independently while soaking up all the fantastic views, you could book a Hurtigruten cruise or a Norway in a Nutshell® tour in April
  • Read about some of the incredible things you can do while visiting Norway
  • For a great way to combine solo travel and guided excursions, browse these partially guided tours to Northern Norway

What are the best places to visit in Norway in April?

To see the best of Norway in April, travel to these amazing locations:

  • Explore the capital Oslo and its many highlights like the Viking Ship Museum
  • Visit charming Norwegian villages such as Flåm
  • Head west to admire the glittering fjords, such as Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord
  • Stroll through the “Gateway to the Fjords”, Bergen
  • Visit the historic Trondheim and Art Nouveau city Ålesund
  • Sail north to see jewels of Arctic Norway like Tromsø , the North Cape and the Lofoten islands
  • Fly north to visit the kingdom of polar bears, remote Svalbard  
  • Want to learn more about Norway? Read these 10 cool things about the country and find out about the best fjords to visit in Norway
  • Discover Norway on one of these top-selling tours to see the best places in one incredible trip

What is the weather like in Norway in April?

Spring in Norway brings warmer weather as the country inches toward summer. That said, in April you can expect more unpredictable weather than usual. It may be cool and sunny, or you may experience a late snowfall. The nights, though getting shorter, are still cold and dark.

What is the temperature in April?

In Norway in April, the average temperature is 8°C (46°F). But as the country spans such a large distance, temperatures in Norway vary depending on location.

In Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger, the average temperature is 6°C (43°F) in April. In Longyearbyen, the main town of Svalbard, it is -9°C (16°F).

Does it snow in Norway in April?

In Oslo and on the west coast, it is unlikely to snow in April, but you may be surprised by some late precipitation depending on the weather.

However, in the mountains, people are still flocking to the ski resorts. And in Northern Norway and Svalbard, you may be able to take part in some winter activities.

  • Find out more about Norway’s climate with this weather guide
  • Not sure when to go to Norway? Get all the details with this guide to the best times to visit

What are the driving conditions in Norway in April?

Driving in Norway in early spring is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home. Mountains may still have some snow and icy conditions and some roads will still be closed.

This is why we recommend summer road trips to Norway instead. Between May and September, you could also join a small guided group tour , go hiking and experience the midnight sun. Southern Norway is especially beautiful at this time of year!

What to pack for a trip to Norway in April?

In April the weather is starting to lighten up, but you can still expect wind and rain as well as cooler temperatures. For that reason, it’s best to pack many layers. That way, come rain or shine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your Norway trip in April:

  • Wind and waterproof jacket
  • Wool jumper
  • Variety of thin layers
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Sturdy walking or hiking boots
  • A warm hat, gloves and scarves
  • Thermal socks and underwear

If your tour includes activities like dog sledding or snowmobiling you may also wish to bring glove liners, a balaclava and maybe even warmer heat packs. Some excursions will provide thermal suits for your protection, but make sure to check details before departing on your adventure.

  • Find out more about visiting Norway earlier, in January , February or March
  • Or visit Norway later, in May , June or July

What to wear in Norway in April?

In the Nordic countries, they have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”.

When travelling to Norway in April, you can expect a range of weather, from rain to sunshine, and high winds. To enjoy all your outdoor activities, come prepared with warm underlayers and waterproof outer layers.

What are the daylight hours in Norway in April?

As April is the start of spring, the days are growing longer. This is especially true in the north, which slowly edges towards the midnight sun phenomenon (when the sun does not set at all).

At the beginning of the month, in Oslo, the sun rises around 6:40 AM and sets by 8:00 PM. In the north, Tromsø experiences daylight between 5:45 AM and 7:50 PM on average.

By the end of the month, the capital sees daylight hours between 5:15 AM and 9:15 PM. In Tromsø, sunrise is at 3:20 AM and sunset at 10:10 PM.

Can I see the northern lights in Norway in April?

As there is still some darkness late at night in April, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. However, it is unlikely.

You’ll need the darker nights of winter for the best sightings. Therefore you should travel to Norway between the months of October and March for a specific aurora tour.

  • Discover northern lights packages to Norway
  • To learn more about the fascinating aurora borealis and how to capture them, read this northern lights guide to Norway

Scroll down to learn more about Nordic Visitor’s services.

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

  • Want to visit Sweden and Denmark too? Immerse yourself in Scandinavia
  • Like raw nature? Discover Iceland ’s jaw-dropping landscapes
  • Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Svalbard
  • Interested in road trip ideas? Venture to Scotland  and Ireland

Our Services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book With Confidence

  • Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
  • 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
  • We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
  • Enjoy personal service from Norway travel experts.
  • Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
  • We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Do you have a question about our Norway tours? Or maybe you want to customise a travel package. Whatever you need, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

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Why bergen is called the “gateway to norway’s fjords”, 7 incredible things to see and do in norway, the best and most beautiful fjords in norway, first hurtigruten cruise tips for your maiden voyage.

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The Best Time To Visit Norway (A Local’s Month-by-Month Breakdown)

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I’m often asked by my readers about the best time to visit Norway , which is always a hard question to answer; because I consider Norway to be a year-round destination (and so do most locals you ask). However, it is possible to figure out the best time to go to Norway, depending on what you are after!

Norway is like a dream destination for everyone. Call me biased, but I’m pretty sure anyone who visits Norway is going to fall in love with it, no matter what time of year. To visitors, Norway means majestic fjords, historic towns, beautiful country-sides, steep glaciers and jagged peaks. To me, it’s all of that, and home.

Each season in Norway has its unique attributes, and so what the best month to visit Norway is changes accordingly. However, I have tried my best to break it down for you in this post, to help you decide when to travel to Norway.

There’s a different ‘best time of the year to visit Norway’ for indulging in different activities like skiing, hiking, fishing, cruising the fjords, chasing Northern lights; for witnessing the beauty of nature like spring blossom, autumn fall, glittering snow etc. So, firstly you have to be clear what exactly you want to do and see in Norway.

To help with this, check out my guide to what Norway is famous for , to give you an idea of where you want to go (and what you need to know before you go).

Best time to visit Norway, blue skies in Hardanger

Table of Contents

What is the best time to visit Norway?

The best time to go to Norway varies with the activities you are hoping to do during your trip, and what you want to get out of your Norway vacation. In short, three things will affect your decision : the light, weather and tourist influx. All of these differ throughout the year in Norway.

Norway is located quite far north on the map, and so you can expect pretty big seasonal changes in daylight. This will 100% affect the time of year you should visit Norway.

This means that if you visit in the winter months, the majority of the day is spent in darkness with little to no natural light. Some places don’t even see the sun for months on end. Even further south, this is true, and at my parent’s house in Aurland , we spend about 3 months with no sunshine hitting our house.

On the other side, however, visiting Norway in May, June or July, will result in long days and hardly any dark at all. If you go up north, to destinations such as Alta or Tromsø , you can enjoy the midnight sun shining 24 hours a day!

The next thing that changes depending on the time of year you head to Norway is the weather. In the winter and autumn months, you can expect rainy, snowy and even windy days to be a part of your trip. Whilst in the summer the weather is more stable, and usually sunny (all though it is never guaranteed).

My favourite website for Norway’s weather forecast is Pent.no , because it compares the weather forecast from two other sites. Usually, the weather ends up being something in between the two forecasts.

Finally, the number of tourists and visitors to Norway can affect your trip. If you are bothered by masses of people, longer wait times and hoards of tourists everywhere you go – you might want to avoid visiting in the summer months.

All these things (tourist influx, weather, and daylight) I have included in my month-by-month breakdown below! Hopefully this will give you a definitive answer as to the best time to travel to Norway for you and your family.

If you have 10 days to spend in Norway, don’t miss this 10-day Norway itinerary I’ve created!

The Best Month to Visit Norway: Month-by-month Breakdown

Below I have split the best time to visit Norway into different months with details on the activities to do in those times and the kind of weather to expect.

That way, you can read the whole post and decide for yourself what is the best month to visit Norway, based on which of these sections most align with what you hope to do on your trip!

Visiting Norway in January and February

Best months for: Skiing, spotting Northern lights, snowmobiling, snowboarding, sleigh riding, dog and reindeer sledding, ice fishing, experiencing Sami culture

Tourist influx: Lowest

Weather information:

  • Rainfall: 35 to 50 mm
  • Average temperature: -6 to 0 degree Celsius
  • Season: White winter (Coldest)
  • Daylight: 6 to 8 hours in Oslo; Sun does not rise in Tromsø in January but you could enjoy 5 to 6 hours of daylight in February

January and February are the coldest months of the year in Norway. The tourist influx in the country during these months is pretty low owing to the harsh and chilly winters.

However, this is probably the best time of year to visit Norway for travellers who are interested in snow dependent activities, a relaxed ski retreat, or in seeing the Northern lights .

Especially Northern Norway is primarily a winter destination, with unique activities such as reindeer sledding, staying in an Igloo Hotel and going whale watching .

Read this next : How to shoot the northern lights with an iPhone

If you wish to make the most of the magical winters of Norway, head north towards the Arctic Circle, specifically the Northern lights belt, where the entire landscape is covered with thick snow, the fjords are frosted and the northern lights dance in colourful formations across the sky.

Best places to visit: This is the best time to visit Norway to explore Oslo , Bergen , Ålesund, Trondheim, Tromsø, Svalbard, Alta and the Lofoten Islands .

Events or Festivals: Northern lights festival, Tromsø International film festival, Ice music festival), Polar jazz festival, Sami week

Pricing: Air fare and hotel tariffs are at their lowest in January and February, so travelling during these months will definitely make for a cheaper trip.

Best time to go to norway, winter in Lofoten blue skies snow

Visiting Norway in March and April

Best months to visit Norway for: Hiking, cruising the western fjords (the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord), kayaking, skiing (northern Norway)

Tourist influx: Low

  • Rainfall: 40 to 45 mm
  • Average temperature: -1 to 10 degree Celsius
  • Season: Mixed (Late-winter and early-spring)
  • Daylight: 8 to 13 hours in Oslo, 10 to 14 hours in Tromso

March and April are some of the best months to visit Norway for travellers who want to make the most of both the winter and spring seasons.

The winter snow slowly starts to melt by mid to late March and most bodies of water are filled with fresh water. Numerous waterfalls are boosted in April by melting waters and summer activities slowly open up allowing tourists to cruise the fjords. The waterfalls during these months (and moving into the next) are quite spectacular.

March is the end of Northern lights season as Norwegians welcome an Easter holiday break and head to the mountains to ski. The Jotunheimen National Park hiking season begins in April and you should not miss out on hitting the beautiful trails before the peak season crowd comes in.

Head this way for the best hikes in Norway .

Best places to visit: Bergen , Trondheim, Røros, Ålesund and the Lofoten Islands (to spot the Northern lights).

Events or Festivals: Holmenkollen ski festival, Winter chamber music festival (Røros), Narvik winter festival, Birkebeiner race, Holy week.

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are still cheap as the tourist influx has just started picking up.

best time to travel to Norway, sunset in Lofoten

Visiting Norway in May and June (the best time to visit Norway)

Best for: Road-trips, hiking, cruising fjords, trekking, island hopping, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing

Tourist influx: High

  • Rainfall: 50 to 65 mm
  • Average temperature: 6 to 18 degree Celsius
  • Season: Spring
  • Daylight: 16-17 hours in Oslo, sun hardly sets in Tromso

As the daylight time increases and spring season sets in, carpets of wildflowers add colour to the Norwegian landscape. Hence, these months are considered to be the best time to visit Norway to go hiking .

If you head above the Arctic circle, you’ll be able to enjoy the Midnight sun during these months, one of the things Norway is most famous for . 

May and June are also the best months to visit Norway to cruise the fjords, with fjord cruises on the Hardangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, Geirangerfjord and even from Bergen opening for bookings.

As the weather starts getting pleasant (or as pleasant as it can get in Norway), you can indulge in several outdoor activities like hiking and trekking where you can see flowers, greenery and stunning views as far as the eye can see.

You could also plan a road trip on the very popular Trollstigen Road near Ålesund, as most of these popular tourist routes open around May (several of them are closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall).

Top tip : Always check the Norwegian road directory website before heading out on a road trip in Norway , to stay up to date on any closures and road works.

Best places to visit: Some of the best places to visit in Norway are Oslo, Ålesund, Bergen, Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands, Svalbard (to spot polar bears and the midnight sun) and Flåm .

Events or Festivals: Constitution day (the 17th of May), Bergen international festival, Tromsø’s midnight sun marathon, North cape march, Færder sailing race, Norwegian wood festival

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are high as the prime shoulder season sets in. Advance booking is advisable and travel within the country (such as trains) can sell out.

best time of year to visit norway, hardanger rib boat blue sky

Visiting Norway in July and August (the most popular months)

Best for: Road trips , hiking, fjord cruises, trekking, island hopping, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, surfing, snorkelling, photography

Tourist influx: Highest

  • Rainfall: 80 to 90 mm
  • Average temperature: 10 to 20 degree Celsius
  • Season: Summer
  • Daylight: 16-19 hours in Oslo, sun hardly sets in Tromso

If you are someone who is not a fan of cold weather and snow, then July and August months would be the best time of the year to visit Norway for you. It is as warm as it gets, and the days are long and bright.

There is a range of outdoor activities that you can indulge in considering the endless daylight hours and the warmer temperatures. You can explore the fjords, spot the prominent Midnight sun, hike to Pulpit rock , pick berries, bike, trail, and trek. Try to squeeze in the Sami culture celebration in Norway during these months if you are visiting the north.

This time of the year is perfect for road-trip planning across Norway, and especially a drive through Trollstigen Road (all though it is busy, so make sure to plan for plenty of time and drive within your limits).

A trip to the Lofoten islands is ideal to experience water activities like kayaking, boating, fishing, surfing and snorkelling, in addition to some incredible hikes. July and August are also the best time to visit Norway to spot the migratory birds flocking the coastline.

Top tip : hit the road and get off-the-beaten path to avoid crowds. The western fjords in particular are incredibly busy these months.

Best places to visit: This is the best time of the year to visit Norway in its entirety, however, the Lofoten islands, Stavanger, Vesterålen, Finnmark, Svalbard, Trondheim are major picks. The fjords are, as mentioned, the #1 destination during the summer months.

Events or Festivals: Gladmat (Scandinavia’s largest food festival), Riddu Riddu festival, Arctic sea kayak race, Bergen beer festival, Oslo jazz festival

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are expensive throughout Norway. Advance booking is recommended.

best season to visit norway, leaves by nordfjord sunny day

Visiting Norway in September and October (the best time to go, in my opinion)

Best for: Island hopping, cruising fjords, hiking, trekking, fishing, mountain biking, photography

Tourist influx: Fairly low

  • Average temperature: 5 to 15 degree Celsius
  • Season: Autumn/ Fall
  • Daylight: 11 to 14 hours in Oslo as well as Tromso

In the autumn season (September and October), the locals often go one weekend trips before winter sets in, whereas the tourist crowd slowly recedes.

September is my favourite month of the year, and also my top tip for the best time to visit Norway.

The coastal areas remain warmer than the inner parts of the country. September and October are the best months to visit Norway for those looking to stay away from the tourist crowd, save some money and yet enjoy the perks of the beauty that the country has to offer.

The colours of the summer are still there, opening hours and activities are still running the same schedules as in June-August, and there are (slightly) less tourists than the high season.

As autumn approaches in the end of September, the beautiful colours start to show up and the landscape gets covered with hues of orange, red and yellow, ideal for photography .

The mountain hikes are the prettiest during these months with trees shedding colourful leaves and vistas are covered in sparkling frost towards the end of October.

The outdoor activities slowly start closing up by October, though the fjords can still be explored. By October end, you could again plan to voyage towards the northern parts of Norway to chase the Aurora borealis.

Read next : how to take photos of the Northern Lights with just a GoPro

Best places to visit: This is the best time to visit Norway to explore Oslo, Bergen, Kirkenes, Lillehammer, Bergen, Flåm, Ålesund, Geiranger, Trondheim, Tromsø, Lofoten islands and more

Events or Festivals: Bergen food festival, Nordic light photo festival, Insomnia festival, Lillehammer jazz festival, BIFF (Bergen International Film Festival)

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are affordable owing to the scaling down of tourist season.

best time of year to go to norway, view from ulriken, bergen

Visiting Norway in November and December

Best months for: Chasing Northern lights, skiing, snowboarding, experiencing Sami culture, spotting whales and orcas, kick-sledding, dog sledding, reindeer safaris, rock art, Christmas/holidays

Tourist influx: Low; slightly higher during Christmas and New year

  • Rainfall: 55 to 70 mm
  • Average temperature: -5 to 5 degree Celsius
  • Season: Dark Winter (Cold)
  • Daylight: 6-8 hours in Oslo, sun barely rises in Tromso

While the tourist season has pretty much declined, festivities sets in for the Christmas and New year. Despite the chilling cold, the celebrations bring in warmth and cheer.

Note that opening hours are very limited in some areas. This is one of the reasons it’s important to be prepared and book things early when visiting Norway for Christmas .

Decorations sparkle against the dark winter, and visiting Norway in December is the perfect time of year if you want to see how Norwegians celebrate Christmas .

The Northern lights season starts again and it is the best time to visit Norway for tourists seeking to find snow and chase the Aurora borealis without the crowds of January and February. Most people catch them on a Tromsø northern lights tour .

The lakes and some fjords slowly start to freeze. The days are dark and snowy, and daylight hours tend to become few (with some areas only experiencing 1-2 hours of daylight).

You could spend time doing indoor activities like visiting museums in Oslo or testing out all the restaurants in Bergen for mouth-watering local Norwegian delicacies. Read and bookmark my packing list for winter in Norway before you go to ensure you have everything you need!  

Best places to visit in Winter: Svalbard, Kirkenes, Tromsø, Lofoten islands, Oslo, Trondheim, Rorøs, the fjords

Events or Festivals: Rakfisk festival, Rorøs Christmas market, Nobel peace prize ceremony, Christmas holidays, the Bergen gingerbread town (the largest in Europe, I believe)

Pricing: Airfare and hotel tariffs are low but tend to spike during the Christmas and New year time.

the best time to visit norway, stegastein viewing platform snow mountain tops

The Best Time of Year To Visit Norway: Activity-Focused

Below I try to break down what the best time to visit Norway is according to the activity you are planning. From hiking to exploring the fjords, you’ll find that there are different times of year that are ideal.

Best time to visit Norway fjords

In my opinion, the best time to visit Norway if you want to see the fjords is in May and June . During these months, the colors of the scenery are at their brightest, creating a breathtaking visual experience.

Additionally, this is when the waterfalls are most dramatic, cascading down from the mountains in all their glory. It is truly a sight to behold. If you’re planning a fjord cruise in Norway, these months offer the perfect conditions to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the fjords. So, mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Below are some of the best fjord cruises in Norway – I always recommend booking early, as they can sell out.

Best time to visit Norway for hiking

I believe that the best time to visit Norway for hiking is during the months of August and September. During this time, you can witness the breathtaking autumn colors as they start to emerge. The snow has completely melted, making it easier to explore the beautiful landscapes.

Moreover, the temperatures during these months are quite pleasant, allowing for a comfortable hiking experience. If you are looking for some remarkable hiking trails, I highly recommend checking out Aurlandsdalen valley and Pulpit Rock .

These trails are particularly enchanting during August and September, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences. So, grab your hiking boots and get ready to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Norway!

pulpit rock hike, sign

The Cheapest Time to visit Norway

Norway is known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences, but it’s no secret that it can be an expensive destination. However, if you’re looking to plan a budget trip to Norway, there’s a silver lining.

During the winter months, specifically in January and February, you’ll find that flights and hotels are more affordable compared to the rest of the year. This presents a great opportunity to explore Norway without breaking the bank. While it’s true that Norway’s natural beauty remains unchanged throughout the year, keep in mind that tours and restaurants don’t generally lower their prices during the winter season.

So, if you’re looking to experience Norway on a budget, visiting during the winter months is definitely a safer bet.

Read next: Oslo on a budget

Final Thoughts

Like I’ve said before, Norway is magnificent all year round. But if you ask me, my (personal) favourite months to visit Norway are February/March (for snow, ski and Northern lights) and September (for all the benefits of visiting in the high season, but with slightly less crowds and the addition of autumn colours).

Hopefully, this guide will make it easier for you to plan your trip to Norway .

Are you planning a trip to Norway? Then you’ll want to read my Norway travel guide , which covers everything from where to go and stay to how much to tip when visiting.

Head this way next:

  • Norway itineraries for your trip
  • My complete Norway travel guide
  • How to plan a trip to Norway
  • The Best Places to Visit in Norway
  • My travel guide to Flåm and the fjords
  • How to get from Oslo to Flåm
  • How to get from Bergen to Flåm
  • Norwegian sweater you’ll love

Regardless of what time of year you end up visiting Norway, there are so many amazing things to do here. From whale watching and chasing the Northern Lights in the winter, to going on a beautiful fjord cruise in the summer – you won’t be bored.

Below, you can browse some of the best tours and activities across Norway. Make sure to make your bookings in advance, as they tend to sell out fast!

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Norway in April – Embrace the Springtime Splendor in the Land of the Midnight Sun

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Norway in April as this travel guide reveals the nation’s allure throughout springtime. Enjoy the rebirth of nature and the cultural joys that Norway has to offer you during this lovely season, from discovering blossoming fjords and vivid landscapes to taking part in Easter celebrations and wildlife encounters.

Norway in April bursts into bloom with all the beauty of spring as the last of the winter’s frost begins to fade. The pristine landscapes emerge from their deep sleep to present a picture of blossoming flowers, lush meadows, and stunning fjords. Cultural celebrations and natural beauty come together at this time of year to offer a memorable experience in the Land of the Midnight Sun.

Spring Fjord Cruises in Norway in April

Spring fjord cruises in Norway are best taken in April. The fjords awaken from their snowy slumber as winter gives way to spring, offering an amazing show of nature’s regeneration. Orchards are decorated with cherry and apple blooms, while colourful wildflowers cover the slopes. All who sail through these spectacular fjords are enthralled by the picture-perfect landscape that is created by the towering cliffs and emerald mountains reflecting in the pure waters.

Spring Fjord Cruises in Norway in April

Cruises across Norway’s fjords in the spring provide a calm and immersive experience. Travellers can enjoy the fragrant freshness of blooms carried by the breeze as the ship gently sways. Elegant seabirds soar above, and playful seals occasionally surface to meet onlookers. Travellers may see the natural world waking up from its winter slumber as the boat glides over the calm waterways, a sensory feast that leaves them with enduring memories of Norway’s springtime charm.

Easter Celebrations

In Norway, Easter is a time for joy and cultural celebrations. Easter markets and fairs come to life throughout the nation, showcasing a beautiful selection of handmade goods, original artwork, and delicious delicacies. Visitors to Norway have the ideal opportunity to experience Norway’s rich creative legacy while getting into the Easter spirit at these markets. The Easter feast, where friends and family come together to eat the customary “Pskegs” (Easter goose), is the focal point of the holiday.

Easter feast in Norway

A mouthwatering range of side dishes and desserts are served along with the luscious roast goose, which takes centre stage at the dinner table. Indulging in the thrill of greeting spring after the long winter, guests savour each tasty morsel. Easter is also celebrated across Norway with a variety of artistic performances, musical performances, and social gatherings. Easter crime novels, or “Pskekrim,” are a special literary tradition during this season, as Norwegians read these books to further get into the holiday spirit. Easter in Norway is a wonderful opportunity to experience the unique cultural history of the nation since it combines beloved customs with modern celebrations.

Lofoten Seafood Festival

The Lofoten Seafood Festival, which honours Norway’s rich coastal culinary tradition, brings life to the Lofoten Islands every April. Lofoten, which is well-known for having an abundance of marine life, provides an unparalleled bounty of delicious fish. Fresh fish like cod and halibut take centre stage during the Lofoten Seafood Festival, which features an astounding array of seafood specialities. The taste senses are tantalised by succulent prawns, delicious crab and various shellfish, providing seafood lovers with a variety of options to enjoy.

Lofoten Seafood Festival

Local fishermen and talented chefs work together to produce mouthwatering dishes that honour the sea’s authentic flavours. Visitors have the option to participate in culinary classes where they may learn how to make traditional Lofoten fish dishes utilising the best, freshest ingredients from their backyard. The festival also offers musical performances, cultural displays, and kid-friendly activities, making it a fun occasion for both families and seafood lovers. The Lofoten Seafood Festival is a celebration of Norway’s coastal heritage and a feast for the senses, set against the breathtaking scenery of the Lofoten Islands.

Puffin Watching on Runde Island

Millions of seabirds return to Norway’s beaches in April, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Particularly Runde Island turns into a refuge for nature lovers, providing a compelling opportunity to see adorable puffins in their native environment. Puffin-watching Excursions to Runde Island provide visitors with the chance to interact closely with these adorable seabirds. Puffins are a cute sight against the backdrop of the rocky coastal landscapes as they plunge into the sea to catch fish or perch atop the cliffs with their bright orange beaks.

Puffin Watching on Runde Island

Runde Island is home to a wide variety of seabirds, including gannets, razorbills, and guillemots, in addition to puffins. Hiking trails on the island offer stunning coastline vistas and chances to see other animals, like seals and sea eagles. Runde Island’s puffin watching offers guests an up-close and personal encounter with the beauties of Norway’s coastal wildlife.

Arctic Wildlife Safaris

April is a great month for wildlife safaris because Norway’s Arctic regions have milder weather and thawing winter ice. Particularly in Svalbard, fascinating guided tours are available that give visitors the chance to see famous Arctic wildlife in its native habitat. The highlight of Arctic wildlife tours in Svalbard are encounters with polar bears. Visitors can safely examine these wonderful creatures, which are perfectly adapted to their icy environment, and admire their beauty and strength.

Norway in April - Embrace the Springtime Splendor in the Land of the Midnight Sun 1

In addition to polar bears, visitors could run into Arctic foxes, reindeer, and several bird species. Svalbard’s waterways are teeming with marine life, and kayaking and boat tours offer opportunities to see seals, whales, and walruses. Svalbard’s arctic wildlife safaris provide a singular and immersive experience in one of the world’s remaining wild places. Travellers develop a profound understanding of the value of conservation and the necessity of protecting these delicate ecosystems as they observe the tenacity of these animals amid the beautiful landscapes of the Arctic.

Norway changes into spring in April, revealing a rich trove of natural beauty and cultural delights. April is a time of awakening and celebration in the Land of the Midnight Sun, from the blossoming fjords to Easter celebrations and wildlife encounters. Take in the fascinating beauty that greets you during this enchanted season as you embrace the enchantment of springtime in Norway .

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Norway in Spring: Where Magic Blooms

Homepage Blog Travel Ideas

Posted Nov 08, 2023 in Travel Ideas

Posted Nov 08, 2023

Norway in Spring

If watching nature bloom, waterfalls flow and the seasons slowly change sounds good to you, then Norway in spring is the place to be! With thousands of fruit trees bursting to life and cozy wooden cabins in the mountains to enjoy the last of the winter snow, spring in Norway has something for everyone.

Let’s explore everything you need to know to enjoy your Norway spring vacation, including average temperatures and daylight hours during spring in Norway, what to wear and the top ten things to do in Norway’s spring season.

What is Spring Like in Norway?

Spring in Norway brings with it melting snow, blossoming flowers and awakening nature. The picturesque landscapes of Norway are incredibly beautiful during spring, with lush green mountain valleys and colorful fruit trees lining the coasts.

Spring in Norway begins around mid-March, extending to May. Despite the onset of Spring, snow persists, especially in mountainous regions. However, the season is marked by extended daylight hours. In certain areas, the sun emerges as early as 4am and doesn't set until close to 11pm.

Spring Weather and Temperature in Norway

Norway’s weather in spring can be changeable, with the weather varying from one year to the next. You may experience some colder days and some warmer days, or anything in between. Be prepared for sun, snow, wind, rain and blue skies, depending where in the country you are and what nature has in store for us this year!

It’s not only difficult to predict what the weather and temperature will be like in spring in Norway, but also when spring will arrive exactly. In Norway, the spring season can start as early as the end of February, or as late as during the summer months, although the average time for spring to start is around March.

As for temperatures in spring in Norway, we can tell you that average temperatures at the start of spring are between -4 to 4ºC (25 to 39ºF), increasing to an average of between 6 and 16ºC (43 to 61ºF) at the end of spring in around May. The further south in Norway you are, the warmer spring will be and the earlier it’ll arrive (and vice versa).

Spring in Norway

Daylight Hours in Spring in Norway

At the start of spring in March, Southern Norway sees around 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness, whereas there are often around 14 hours of darkness in Northern Norway.

As spring progresses and we enter May, Southern Norway’s nights decrease to around 7 hours of darkness and Northern Norway only sees around 5 hours of darkness each night.

Is Spring a Good Time to Visit Norway?

You might be thinking ‘is it a good time to visit Norway in April?’, to which we can answer yes, if you’d like to experience the beauty of Norway with mild temperatures and a chance to see the Northern Lights! April is a great month for wildlife lovers, as it’s lambing month in Norway and the iconic puffins return to the country during this month, too.

If you’re wondering ‘is it a good time to visit Norway in May?’, you’ll catch the end of spring and start of summer if you choose to visit Norway at this time of year. May brings with it warmer weather, the first glimpse of the summer sun and nature in full bloom – a truly beautiful time to visit Norway!

Can You See the Northern Lights in Spring in Norway?

For those travelers who are keen to see the Northern Lights during their time in Norway, you’ll be pleased to know that this incredible dancing light show is still visible during springtime. Particularly in North Norway, including those parts of the country that lie above the Arctic Circle, you’ll have a great chance to see the aurorae for yourself.

The peak Northern Lights viewing season in Norway is between late September and early April, meaning you’ll have the best chance to see the spectacular lights if you visit Norway at the start of spring. Earlier in spring, daylight hours are shorter, giving you more hours of darkness for your Northern Lights hunt – exciting!

Weather in Norway in Spring

What to Wear in Norway in Spring

If you’re wondering what to add to your suitcase for your Norway spring vacation, here are our top packing tips for this transition season:

  • Layers, layers, layers! – The best tip we can give you for dressing appropriately for Norway in spring is to layer up. Make sure you stay toasty warm or you're able to quickly cool off if needed by bringing versatile clothing you can easily layer. Think vests, t-shirts, light jumpers, thicker jumpers, trousers/pants, and even thermal layers if you’re planning to head to the northernmost parts of Norway. 
  • Waterproof coat – As the seasons transition, changeable weather is to be expected, so a waterproof coat is a must. You’ll need a waterproof outer layer to protect you from any April showers and keep you comfortable during your time out and about exploring Norway’s stunning landscapes.
  • Sunglasses – The sun is bound to come out at some point during spring in Norway, so don’t forget your sunglasses! Even if you’re traveling to a potentially snowy area, sunglasses will protect your eyes from the glare off the brilliant white snow or ice.
  • Hat, gloves and scarf – Depending on when in spring you’re visiting and whereabouts in the country you plan to go to, a hat, gloves and scarf may be necessary to keep you warm outside. If you plan to venture near Norway’s coastal regions, a scarf is a good idea to protect you from any wind or sea breezes.

Top 10 Things to Do in Norway in Spring

What can you get up to during spring in Norway? Let’s take a look through some of our top recommendations for fun activities to enjoy during this lovely season of the year!

Experience Norwegian Easter Celebrations

Spring brings with it Easter and a whole range of sweet treats, fun traditions and vibrant festivals. Many Norwegians head to the ski slopes to enjoy the last of the winter snow and even get a tan while soaking in the sun outside their wooden cabin! Tasty and traditional Easter snacks to try in Norway include Kvikk Lunsj chocolates, oranges, sweet orange soda and sweet buns – yum!

Easter in Norway

Visit the Cute Lambs on a Norwegian Farm

As we mentioned above, April in Norway is lambing month, making this the perfect time for a trip to a Norwegian farm to meet the fluffy cuties! Many farms in Norway offer visits where you can meet the animals and even go on an alpaca hike or horse ride – perfect for all the family!

Sheep in Norway in Spring

Go Birdwatching to Spot Some Puffins

Spring is the time that many birds return to Norway to nest after the cold season, so you’ll find the country’s coastlines bursting with life during the spring months. In fact, the wild Varanger Peninsula in North Norway has become one of the most popular places in the world to spot Arctic birds.

You might also want to head to the island of Lovund, where Lundkommer’s Day is celebrated on 14th April each year, marking the day that the approximately 200,000 puffins that call Lovund home return to the island.

Puffin in Norway

Glide Along the Water on a Fjord Cruise

What better time to take a glorious fjord cruise in Norway than spring? Soak in the beauty of the newly blooming nature all around as you glide through one of Norway’s breathtaking fjords, enjoying the serene surroundings and majestic mountain views. Taking a fjord cruise is by far the best way to experience Norway’s fjords for yourself.

Experience Foodie Heaven at the Farmers’ Markets and Food Festivals

Spring in Norway means the first farmers’ markets of the year, perfect for sampling some delicious and fresh local produce. A major part of Norway’s culinary heritage, farmers’ markets are an essential bucket list item for anyone wanting an authentic Norwegian experience during their vacation. Foodies will also love Oslo’s food festivals during spring!

Soak in Art and Culture in Oslo’s Incredible Museums

For those rainy days, you’ll have more than enough activities and attractions to choose from to keep you entertained. Norway’s capital is definitely not short of amazing museums and art galleries! Art lovers won’t want to miss the famous Munch Museum and iconic Vigeland Museum . You can also explore the fascinating history of polar exploration in the Fram Museum , or dive into learning all about the city of Oslo itself in the Oslo City Museum .

Visit Norway’s Charming Villages and Towns

Spring is the perfect time to take a little day trip to one of Norway’s picturesque coastal villages or towns. Think quaint cobbled streets, colorful houses and independent boutiques – wonderful! Lillehammer, Flam and Geiranger are some of our favorite Norwegian villages to visit for spectacular scenery and an authentic experience of Norwegian village life.

Charming Town in Norway. Flam

Take an Epic Hike in Norway’s Mountains

Perfect for avid adventurers, Trolltunga and Preikestolen are two of Norway’s most famous hiking routes. You’re in for a treat during these epic hikes, as the incredible scenery is sure to take your breath away! The cooler weather makes hiking during spring in Norway much easier than under the summer sun; you’ll just need to make sure that you leave early enough to return before the sun sets.

Hike to Trolltunga in Norway

Experience ‘Utepils’ and Authentic Norwegian Cuisine

A classic Norwegian experience during spring is ‘utepils’, which is the first beer of the year enjoyed outside in the sun. Truly unmissable during your time in Norway, make sure to enjoy ‘utepils’ to experience the arrival of spring like a true Norwegian! You can also take this opportunity to sample some traditional Norwegian cuisine, from first-class seafood to tasty cheeses and juicy berries – delicious!

Take a World-Famous Scenic Train Ride

The Oslo-Bergen train line is world-famous for a reason; this mountainous route takes you into the heart of Norway’s fjords through stunning landscapes of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls and sprawling valleys. As well as enjoying an incredibly scenic train ride, you can take this chance to visit Norway’s two largest cities: Oslo and Bergen.

Railway from Oslo to Bergen

Enjoy Your Very Own Spring Norway Vacation!

Excited to plan your ideal Norway vacation for springtime? Get started by taking a look through our affordable and reliable range of campervan rentals in Norway . Perfect for your trip, a campervan will allow you the ultimate flexibility and freedom to travel to your heart’s content and follow your own time schedule. So, what are you waiting for?

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where to visit in norway in april

Pickyourtrail Travel Blog

Norway in April: An Ultimate Guide 2024!

Norway’s first month of spring brings warming temperatures, softening snow, and growing blooms. This is an incredible opportunity to get outside and hit the open street as the whole nation happens to out hibernation for Easter the travel industry—yet it’s even more reasonable and less swarmed than summer. Discover what to do and where to go with this April guide. Go to Norway in April to partake in the notorious sights of the country with more modest groups. Appreciate fjord travels and grand train ventures, taking in the magnificence of the Norwegian scene.

Weather in Norway in April

Weather in Norway in April

Weather in Norway in April

Guests going to Norway in April can expect whimsical spring climate: some of the time it comes early (the photograph above fails on the hopeful side) and some of the time it arrives behind schedule—on an entire, however, you’ll probably think that it is more wonderful than March. In the southern part of the country, the colder time of year chill blurs as temperatures begin transcending the 40-50 degree Fahrenheit reach.

In the north, spring shows up later than in the remainder of the nation, so relying upon where you travel, you might encounter changing seasons from winter to spring (or the other way around) in only a couple of hours. Remember to pack sweaters, a waterproof coat, and open to strolling shoes.

The normal day by day greatest UV record in April is 3. A UV Index gauge of 3 to 5 addresses a medium wellbeing risk from risky openness to the UV radiation for normal people.

All organizations re-open for the travel industry as April makes the progress from low season to Norway’s shoulder season, particularly with the beginning of Easter week and spring break. Flights and lodgings will see an ascent in costs, however, they’re as yet not as costly as the pinnacle late spring months, making this an incredible future time in the event that you have a lump of downtime. Local people love their Easter family customs, with cook sheep, candy trades, and spring skiing in the mountains, and numerous Norwegians will go inside the country during this period also.

Where to Go in Norway in April

Mountains in Norway in April

April’s warming climate makes it an extraordinary month to investigate Norway by foot, train, the rental vehicle. Most explorers will either begin or end their outing with a couple of days in the capital of Oslo—the quickest developing capital in Europe. An exemplary next prevent from here is Bergen, by means of the popular Flåm Railway, where you can look at the city’s cobblestoned UNESCO World Heritage site, stylish stores, and customary cafés.

While on the west coast, consider an outing on the notorious Hurtigruten beachfront ship among Bergen and the Arctic Circle, along with one of the world’s most astounding seaside ventures. Rather than going right to Kirkenes, stop in Ålesund, a city that got a craftsmanship nouveau makeover following an overwhelming fire a century prior. From here, you can ship through the UNESCO-recorded Geirangerfjord, which is known for its cascades.

What to Do in Norway in April

jotunheimen national park

April is an incredible month for looking at Norway’s metropolitan historical centers, parks, restaurants, and social attractions. Indeed, numerous guests like to visit bistros and workmanship presentations when local people escape to the mountains for another seven-day stretch of winter and spring skiing. There are also shows, celebrations, and different occasions going on all over the country around Easter.

For a loosening up excursion, you can investigate enchanting towns and wooden fight chapels all over southern and focal Norway. More dynamic sorts can make a beeline for focal Norway’s public parks in April that invite adventurers to its all-around kept up with climbs. For example, Jotunheimen National Park, ‘Home of the Giants’, offers 60 icy masses, 275 culminations, and nearness to the fjords for the individuals who need to hit the path before the late spring swarms. Here is an aide to Norway’s greatest day climbs.

April makes certain to bring temperatures warm enough for “utepils”.

Events in April

Jazz and music festivities

Holy Week.  Expect different festivals and business terminations all over Norway, particularly between Thursday during that time after Easter Sunday.   

Voss Jazz Festival.  This April festival in Voss offers three days of jazz and folk music performances by European and American artists. 

Inferno Metal Festival.  Oslo’s novel celebration held over Easter few days of all occasions includes a list of weighty metal groups.

April in Norway is when the season begins to progress from winter to spring. It brings somewhat hotter temperatures and significantly more sunshine hours.

April offers many invigorating travel encounters in Norway, contingent upon where you go and what you might want to do. In the south, you can appreciate fjord visits, while in the north you could go canine sledding in snow-shrouded scenes. Check Pickyourtrail and explore some great  Norway tour packages  for you and the Vacations Expert here will help you customize a perfect itinerary just for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the chances are lower than in the winter, it is still possible to see the Northern Lights in the far north of Norway in April, especially early in the month.

In Norway, April marks the beginning of the transition from winter to spring. Temperatures in southern parts typically range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), while northern regions may still experience colder temperatures and lingering snow.

The majority of Norway’s tourist attractions and destinations open for the season in April. However, it is a good idea to double-check specific opening dates because some establishments may still be closed or have limited hours.

Easter is celebrated in Norway in April, and it often includes a variety of cultural events, concerts, and traditional Norwegian Easter activities such as egg painting and local markets.

The fjords can be visited in April. Some boat tours may begin operating during this time, allowing visitors to experience the stunning fjord landscapes.

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  • Norway Weather in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

April is cool in southern Norway's low elevations where the big cities are, and daylight lasts 14½ hours on average! Nights are cold or freezing. In the high elevations and in the north, it is almost always freezing. You can tour the cities with low season prices and ski.

Read on for our weather information and travel advice including average temperatures and rainfall, places to go, and travel tips…

Content Preview

  • 1. Weather Overview
  • 2. Best Places to Visit
  • 3. Crowds and Costs
  • 4. What to Wear

Norway Weather in April: Overview

  • Temperature range : 2–9°C (36–48°F)
  • Total rain/snow : 8 cm (3 inches)
  • Days with rain/snow : 11
  • Humidity : 75%
  • Sunshine hours/day : 5 hours

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April Climate Comparison (Averages) for Norway's Top Tourism Areas

The south of Norway, where Oslo, Stavanger, and other big cities are, usually has cool days and cold nights. This region has an average of 5 hours of sunshine and 14½ hours of daylight. The abundant light lifts people's moods. You can ski in the mountains.

Southern region : Oslo, Stavanger, and Bergen are near the southern coast at about 60° degrees latitude. Their highs average 10°C (50°F). The average nightly low is 2°C (36°F). There is low to moderate rainfall and plenty of daylight for seeing the sights.

Northern region : Arctic tourism towns such as Tromsø are within the Arctic Circle and north of latitude 69°. The average daily highs are about 4°C (39°F) or below. The lows are -2 (28°F) or below depending on the latitude. There are 16 hours of daylight on average and low snowfall.

The Best Places to Visit in Norway in April

Touring in April features long and cool days lasting 14½ to 16 or more hours on average, depending on latitude, during which you can do a variety of activities. In the south, you can tour the cities, hike, or go to ski resorts. The northern arctic towns have more exotic activities.

If you want to tour Norway or other European countries or experience a world tour, consider Global Highlights. Our customized trips are highly-rated on Trust Pilot . Let us know your interests and goals for your tour, and we'll make the best of the weather and local resources. Contact us to begin a tour inquiry .

1. Oslo — Experience Norwegian Culture and the Fjords; Take Cruises and Boat Tours

In the Norwegian Capital, the daily high is 10°C (50°F), and the average low is 2°C (36°F). The low snowfall and an average of 14½ hours of daylight makes sightseeing, touring and shopping more pleasant. There are 5 hours of sunshine on average.

At the beginning of April, Oslo days last 13½ hours. At the end, the days last 16 hours, and it is a good time for lower-priced cruises to visit the fjords and the cities. You can see green fjords, gushing waterfalls and wildflowers.

There are 8 days of low rainfall, so it is a good month for outdoor activities. Prices are lower in low tourism season. The end of the month has more daylight and is warmer. You can see the blooming flowers and the trees turning green.

For more on Oslo city sightseeing see Norway in January  and other months.

2. Stavanger — See Amazing Natural Rock Formations, Beautiful Fjords, and the Old Town

The strong, warm Gulf Stream current makes the snow melt earlier in the Stavanger area, and you can hike and see the scenery in low season before the tourist crowds come. The melting snow flows in torrents and waterfalls, and the slopes are green with colorful wildflowers.

You can see beautiful spectacles while hiking or on a cruise boat. The weather is good enough for hiking since the average highs are 10°C (50°F). The nightly lows are 4°C (39°F), and there are 6 hours of sunshine on average for added warmth.

You could hike to Pulpit Rock and other places in Lysefjord. You might like a stroll in the Old Town to see the colorful houses and buildings, visit the museums, shop, and dine. Tourism prices are relatively low for the year.

3. Bergen — Go on the Area's Famed Hikes and See the Fjords and Waterfalls

In Bergen, the second largest Norwegian city, there are 5 hours of sunshine, an average daily high of 11°C (52°F) and an average low of 4°C (39°F). This is warm enough to turn the snow into cascades falling off the cliffs, and the slopes turn green and have colorful wildflowers making a beautiful panorama.

Bergen is famous for being rainy. About half of the days of the month have rainfall. The moderate rain adds to the waterfall spectacles. Don't forget an umbrella or rain gear if you are going outdoors. Sognefjord is the longest fjord in Norway, and is four hours from Bergen.

Bergen is the second largest city in Norway and is known for German architecture and traditional Swedish wooden buildings. There is fine Norwegain cuisine. And there are mountains around the city you can hike up, or you could take public transport to the top to see the views.

4. Tromsø — Enjoy Relaxing in a Sunny, International, Port Town

Many tourists are surprised to see how large and modern Tromsø is. The harbor is well developed with modern buildings, and the town spreads along both sides of the harbor area. For an exotic excursion, you can take a cruise or fly to this town of 80,000 in the Arctic Circle.

The days are long, lengthening from 14 hours at the beginning of the month to 18½ hours at the end, with an average of about 5 hours of sunshine and extra eerie dim long twilight. So, you can see more of the starkly beautiful rocky landscape and woods during the long days.

Days are cold with average highs of 4°C (39°F) and lows of -2°C (28°F). This produces a lot of slush, so wear good boots. You could visit the great seafood restaurants or take the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of the adjacent hill to see the area and hike.

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in April

April provides much daylight, about 15 hours a day, and low tourism season prices for flights and hotels unless Easter falls in April. If Easter is in April, the Norwegians use the three days of public holidays for extended vacations that might last a week or more.

During their vacations, many want to ski at the ski resorts. Others want to travel internationally to warmer climates. So, there is an increase in ticket prices for flights and also an increase in prices for accommodation.

Many of the best ski resorts such as those around Lillehammer are in low to moderate season. The extra daylight and sunshine hours are advantages for touring and going to the outdoors. Norwegians use their holiday time off to drive to the fjords and ski resorts and hike.

You might want to book ahead if you are planning to go around the holidays.

Public holidays in April:

  • Easter Monday  is April 1 in 2024. It one of the 3 public holidays spanning Maundy Thursday to Monday after Easter. During this time, schools, businesses, and banks are closed. Transactions made during this period may not be processed until the Tuesday following Easter Sunday.
  • Easter 2025  brings 5 days of holiday for Norwegians from April 17 to 21.

What to Wear in April

For comfort, dress in layers with a jacket. If you are going to colder climes in the mountains or the north, wear a heavy coat.

Here is a packing list for a few essentials in Norway:

  • Comfortable shoes with good traction
  • Warm waterproof boots with good traction for the outdoors. You might wear them in-flight to travel lightly.
  • Heavy winter coat
  • Swimwear for hot springs and spas
  • Cardigans or thermals
  • Polarized glasses to reduce the glare

Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Norway

Previous month:  Norway in March

Next month:  Norway in May

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From March to May, the days get longer and the weather gets warmer all over the country. Melting snow creates natural waterfalls everywhere, flowers bloom and smiles are getting wider – making spring in Norway a remarkable experience.

Spring in Norway is probably the hardest season to define. Some years it comes early, other years late, sometimes it’s hot, and sometimes chilly well into what’s supposed to be the summer months. While many people consider the spring equinox around March 20 to be the first day of the season, spring may arrive in late February in some parts of the country.

Plenty of people head to the mountains during Easter week to have fun in the snow before it melts away. Spring skiing in the sun, wearing a t-shirt, is arguably the best skiing there is! Remember to use sunscreen.

In any case, the flowers are sure to be blooming in May, and so are the Norwegians. Nature is bursting forth all around – trees and flowers are waking to life, and the melting snow in the mountains swells waterfalls, rivers and lakes. The blossoming fruit trees along the Hardangerfjord are an unforgettable sight.

The hurray season!

Thanks to the many public holidays in May – Norway’s national day on the 17th of May being the most fun – Norwegians get to really appreciate the season.

Many Norwegian cities are cosy and compact, and can easily be covered on foot. Check out some excellent routes for experiencing Norway's biggest cities in 10,000 steps.

How to dress for spring

When it comes to dressing for the weather in March, April, and May , don’t trust your own eyes – by the time you’ve put your jacket on and tied your shoelaces, the weather may have changed for the worse. Or the sky may have cleared.

The weather can change quickly in Norway, especially in the mountains, so bring good footwear and warm clothes no matter what the conditions are like when you set out. Spring weather is especially unpredictable, so make sure you dress in layers and are prepared for both sun and rain, and even snow. As we say in Norway – wool is cool .

If you’re out seeing the city sights, it's a good idea to bring along an umbrella. If you are exploring nature, however, you should bring a rain jacket or windbreaker instead. Either way, you’ll probably want to wear your sunglasses, and remember to apply sunscreen if you’re spending time in the sun , especially in the mountains where there is still snow. The white snow reflects the sun, which can quickly cause sunburn.

Get the latest weather forecast

Check the local weather forecast at  Yr.no , delivered by the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK). Download Yr’s free weather app for iOS or  Android .

Seasonal food and drink

Spring is the time for lamb dishes, usually eaten around Easter. The first potatoes, asparagus and wild garlic of the year are a treat that will leave many Norwegian foodies weak at the knees. The same is true of fresh fish of all sorts, including herring and the renowned Atlantic cod from the Lofoten and Vesterålen area, called  skrei .

Closer to summer, rhubarb and salads appear in all their leafy glory. This is also the time to (literally) enjoy the fruits of the autumn harvest, when you can drink world-class Cider and apple juice outside in the sun.

Springfulness

You know that time of year when you finally can warm your face to the sun again?

The sounds, smells and sights of spring produce serotonin in your brain, that releases a particular type of happiness. This feeling we call Springfulness – and it can be gained in the majestic landscapes of Fjord Norway.

Be inspired by these 7 spring experiences in Fjord Norway!

Month by month

Explore Norway from winter to summer!

Explore spring in Norway

How would you like to enjoy this bright and playful season?

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where to visit in norway in april

Things to do in Bergen in April

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April is a good time to visit Bergen . The weather is usually cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 35—44°F (2—7°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Bergen during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Edvard Grieg Museum at Troldhaugen, take a guided walking tour of Bryggen, explore the Bergen Aquarium, and more!

Bergen has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your April trip to Bergen. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to April. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Bergen in April. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout April, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

  • Experiences
  • Weather and what to wear
  • Attractions

where to visit in norway in april

Best events and things to do in Bergen in April

Top experiences in april, visit the edvard grieg museum at troldhaugen, take a guided walking tour of bryggen, explore the bergen aquarium, explore the bergenhus fortress, take a scenic fjord cruise, hike to the top of mount fløyen, holidays in bergen in april.

  • Palm Sunday ( April 13 )
  • Maundy Thursday ( April 17 )
  • Good Friday ( April 18 )
  • Holy Saturday ( April 19 )
  • Easter Sunday ( April 20 )
  • Easter Monday ( April 21 )

Other notable holidays

  • Carnival ( March 2 )
  • Labor Day ( May 1 )
  • Liberation Day ( May 8 )
  • 17 May Constitution Day ( May 17 )
  • Ascension Day ( May 29 )
  • Whit Saturday ( June 7 )
  • Whit Sunday ( June 8 )
  • Whit Monday ( June 9 )
  • Repentance Day ( October 26 )
  • Weather in Bergen in April

Temperatures on an average day in Bergen in April

The average temperature in Bergen in April for a typical day ranges from a high of 44°F (7°C) to a low of 35°F (2°C). Some would describe it as cold with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Bergen , July, has days with highs of 62°F (17°C) and lows of 52°F (11°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 35°F (1°C) and lows of 28°F (-2°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Bergen in April based on historical data.

Visiting Bergen? See our Bergen Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in April

General weather summary, what to wear in april, best attractions for bergen in april.

Fløibanen - mountain cable car

Top searches in Bergen

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It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Bergen for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Bergen in January
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Explore nearby places

  • Lysekloster
  • Eikelandsosen
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  • Tysnes Municipality

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Bergen throughout the year

  • Bergen in January
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Bergen?

Get inspired for your trip to Bergen with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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where to visit in norway in april

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Norway in April: The Start of Spring Season

The view of beautiful Geiranger in Norway in April.

  • ~ mins read

Spring dawns in Norway in April and the whole country comes to life. There is a newfound joy and vigor everywhere. The warm weather conditions create an ideal setting for outdoor adventures, while the Easter holidays add to the atmosphere. This is a great time to marvel at the iconic sights of Oslo, wander across the coastal city of Alesund, and take in the beautiful landscapes of Bergen and Geirangerfjord. Regardless of where your heart decides to explore in Norway , April offers the ideal conditions for a memorable vacation.

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Norway Weather in April

Panoroma of Nordfjord during spring season in Norway.

By April, the cold winter conditions gradually disappear in Norway, and the weather becomes much more appealing than in March. The average temperature in Norway in April is between 4°C and 9°C. Spring arrives later in the country’s north than in the south. So, expect either winter or spring conditions depending on where you are traveling in Norway. But overall, the weather will be comparatively warmer than in the previous months.

For a seasonal overview, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Norway .

Weather in Norway in April - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit norway in april.

A woman sunbathing in the beach of Norway.

Warm weather coupled with the blooming nature makes April one of the best times to enjoy a vacation in Norway. Below are some of the reasons why visiting Norway in April is a great idea:

  • Festivals: Visiting Norway in April is a perfect idea for music lovers as the famous Voss Jazz festival and Inferno Metal festival are held during this month. Depending on what date Easter falls on, you could also celebrate the festival with the locals.
  • Outdoor adventures: Exploring the beaches and taking a cruise in the fjords would be a much more pleasant experience in April. The warm weather also makes for an ideal backdrop for exploring Norway’s charming countryside and coastal cities.
  • Fewer crowds: April is still part of the low season in Norway. As a result, you will find fewer tourists at popular attractions.
  • Affordable rates: Flight and hotel rates would be inexpensive compared to the peak season.

Where to Go and What to Do

Panoramic view of Tromso at sunset, Norway

Oslo, Bergen, Alesund, Kirkenes, and the Arctic Circle are some of the best places to visit in Norway in April. Explore the magnificent Oslo , the fast-growing capital city of Norway. Continue your journey to Explore Bergen through the Flam Railway and the famed Unesco World Heritage Site. Head to Kirkenes to witness its wartime historical monuments and make a stop at Alesund to explore its majestic Art Nouveau architecture. In Geirangerfjord, check out the many waterfalls, including the Seven Sisters falls.

Get on board the Hurtigruten ferry and sail across the west coast. Enjoy the urban vibe of Tromso and head further north to meet polar bears in Svalbard. If you prefer adventure, journey to central Norway and trek the Jotunheimen National Park.

Get on board for a memorable holiday experience in Norway in April. The country’s weather around this time is ideal for exploring its attractions, landmarks, and hidden nooks and corners. Take advantage of discounts on travel and accommodation fares as April is the low season in the country.

Organizing a holiday can be stressful, so let our travel experts do the heavy lifting for you with customizable trips to Norway . Our article on how many days to spend in Norway will also come in handy.

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My Top 30 Norway Itineraries – Two Days to Two Weeks in Norway

June 15, 2024 by Silvia 49 Comments

I’ve made so many trips around Norway in the past nine years I’ve been living here, so I thought it could be helpful for me to gather all of my itineraries in one place. I also find that I often get questions from people trying to organize their Norway trips that I’ve already answered in past itineraries, so I wanted to make it easier to find all the information in one place.

Okay, so here’s a collection of all my top Norway itineraries, organized in order of length.

I’ve started with weekend trips, where I’m just giving suggestions for single places to visit, but if you scroll farther down I’ve linked my longer one and two week+ itineraries later in the post.

And of course if you have lots of time you can mix and match these destinations and itineraries to fit your schedule! Just keep in mind that Norway is really big. Like I think people way underestimate its size because we’re only five million people here.

I can’t tell you how many people have come to me saying they have five days in Norway and will start in Oslo, then get the train over to Bergen and then drive up to Tromsø to see the Northern Lights. Um, Bergen is an overnight train journey from Oslo, and driving from Bergen to Tromsø will take you 28 hours  without stops .

And no, sadly Norway’s train line does not go all the way up to Tromsø – it ends in Bodø.

If you want more in depth advice, I’ve also gathered all my best tips for planning an incredible trip through southern Norway (from the far south up to Trondheim) in a 93-page ebook that covers my top recommendations for places to visit (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and a sample itinerary that covers my personal favorite route through the south. You can purchase The Southern Norway Travel Guide here .

And if you’re coming to Norway for the northern lights, I’ve written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your northern lights trip, including the best places in Norway (and the Nordics) to see the northern lights, the best time to see the northern lights, my top northern lights accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the northern lights (including which apps I use), how to photograph and film the northern lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best northern lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here .   

the best Norway itinerary for 2 days to 2 weeks in Norway

Table of Contents

Norway Weekend Itineraries

If you’re coming to Norway for just a weekend I’d really recommend sticking to one place. Norway is a big country, public transport doesn’t run that often and can have delays, and moving around to a bunch of places in a short time frame can get expensive.

That said, you could also consider renting a car and exploring a bit of the area if you can, as the best part of Norway is getting out of the cities and towns and seeing some of the beautiful nature here. Norway is also an easy country to drive in, as there is so little traffic here. I’ve shared my guide for driving in Norway here , and you can compare prices and book your rental car here . 

Though if you get motion sickness definitely bring some tablets or Sea Bands , as the winding roads here can do a number on your stomach! I’ve written a more detailed guide to things to know when planning a road trip in Norway here .

royal palace karl johan oslo

Sometimes I feel guilty when I’m in Oslo because it’s such a fun city, but I am always telling visitors to Norway to skip it, or at least cut their time there short.

Oslo is fun for locals and the only city in Norway that actually feels like a big city, but there are a lot of other cities in Europe that do what Oslo does best even better. In other words, Oslo is a great city  for Norway , but I wouldn’t necessarily consider it one of Europe’s great cities.

And that’s totally fine, because Norway isn’t really about cities.

Okay, maybe I’m being harsh, and maybe it’s because I’ve received too many messages from people telling me how disappointed by Oslo’s “fjord.” Yes Oslo is technically on a fjord, but if you’re looking for those famous mountainous fjords you’re going to need to head west or north.

But if you do have your heart set on Oslo, it does have some great shopping,  amazing restaurants, sort of okay nightlife (lol), and lots of museums. You won’t be bored. I’ve written about things to do in Oslo here , the Oslo Christmas markets here , and a guide to finding the best Oslo accommodation for your budget here .

top of Krossobanen view Rjukan Telemark Norway

If you’ve found a cheap flight to Oslo for a weekend trip but now I’ve scared you off spending all your time there, consider spending a night or two in Rjukan! You can book a bus to Rjukan here , but I’d really recommend renting a car if you can, as the drive to Rjukan via Gaustatoppen is truly spectacular.

Rjukan is a quirky mountain town with an important World War II history. It’s also listed as a UNESCO Industrial Heritage Site and it’s really cool to see the old factories and worker accommodation.

But I also love that it’s at the foot of both Gaustatoppen, one of Norway’s most beautiful mountains, and Hardangervidda, Northern Europe’s largest high mountain plateau (which is also home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer).

I used to live half an hour from Rjukan so I visited the town many times (and even briefly considered moving there), and I’ve written a guide to things to do and where to stay in Rjukan here .

This would be an especially great place to visit with kids, with lots of fun sites like the Krossobanen cable car, the Gaustabanen funicular, and the Vemork WWII museum.

norway itinerary bergen

Bergen is probably the most popular destination for a weekend trip to Norway – and for good reason. The city is gorgeous (sorry Oslo, but Bergen is way prettier), and there are loads of international flights here. Of course I’m a bit biased because I live in Bergen, but even before I moved here I loved visiting. 

This is also an easy base from which to take a day trip out to the fjords, and as it’s a big tourist hub there are lots of activities and tours organized out of Bergen. I’ve written a complete guide to Bergen here and a guide to planning a road trip from Bergen here . 

This is also where you can take the famous Norway in a Nutshell tour, which goes up the Flåm Railway and through the gorgeous Aurlandsfjord. But! Before you book the tour, read this to find out how you can save tons of money on Norway in a Nutshell. 

If you want any easy weekend destination in Norway, Bergen is perfect. You’ll get a very Norwegian experience and everything is set up perfect for tourists, from all the lovely hotels here to the unique activities and adventure tours offered here.

Hardangerfjord

hardangerfjord Norway in May

If you fly into Bergen, you could also rent a car and drive down to Hardangerfjord to spend a night or two.

Hardangerfjord is beautiful and so peaceful, especially in the spring when the orchards are in bloom. I’ve written more about driving through Hardangerfjord here .

And if you do spend the night here, I can recommend staying at Utne Hotel, which dates back to 1722 and is perfect for anyone who enjoys unique, historical accommodation.  Check current rates and availability here

Or if you want something a bit cheaper but equally lovely, stay at Ullensvang Gjesteheim, which is in the prettiest part of Hardangerfjord. Check current rates and availability here

A lot of people head here to hike Trolltunga, or the famous Troll’s Tongue that you’ve probably seen all over Instagram and Facebook. Just be aware that it’s an advanced level hike and extremely popular – these days you’ll usually find a long line of people waiting to take photos on the rock. You can read more about hiking Trolltunga here .

viewpoint ålesund norway art nouveau

Whenever someone asks me where they should go in Norway if they only have a few days, I tell them to go to Ålesund or Lofoten.

Ålesund really gives the best introduction to Norway, because you get to experience a Norwegian city and then you can drive up to Trollstigen for those amazing mountain views, and then over to Geirangerfjord to see Norway’s most beautiful fjord!

Ålesund is such a beautiful city, and the surrounding nature is seriously stunning. Like, I definitely think this is one of the prettiest corners of Norway, and I’m always shocked that most tourists choose to visit Oslo and Bergen instead. I’ll never understand.

But that’s also good news for you if you like to get off the beaten path a bit!

Ideally I would recommend spending a night or two in Ålesund and then renting a car and spending a night or two in a quieter area on the fjords. I’ve written a guide to things to do and where to stay in Ålesund here , nearby Hjørundfjord here , and where to stay around Geirangerfjord here .

Trondheim in autumn Norway

Another great weekend destination in Norway is Trondheim – my old home!

Trondheim has a rich history and in fact at over 1,000 years old Trondheim is the oldest of Norway’s major cities. It was the religious center of Northern Europe during the Middle ages and has a beautiful old town and Norway’s most impressive cathedral, Nidaros Cathedral.

It’s a really walkable city and the airport is just a short bus or train journey away, so it’s definitely one of the easiest places to spend a weekend in Norway.

Trondheim is a big foodie city with several award-winning restaurants, so if you like to go out to eat, Trondheim is perfect.

It’s also a university city so there’s a great young vibe here and lively night life. And then of course the old town area Bakklandet is one of the prettiest corners of Norway.

I’ve written a guide for things to do in Trondheim here , and where to stay in Trondheim here .

Trondheim – Oppdal

I’d say the only thing missing with a weekend trip to Trondheim is that you don’t really get to experience Norway’s beautiful landscapes. I mean, the city is on the coast and there is a lovely park area to go hiking in above the city, but it’s not the sort of dramatic landscape that Norway is so famous for.

But if you wanted you could spend a night or two in Trondheim (I’d say one full day in Trondheim is plenty to see the main sights) and then rent a car and drive down to Oppdal. I spent a weekend here while living in Trondheim and it’s one of my favorite memories from my time there.

The drive is beautiful and the scenery there is amazing as you climb up into the mountains. This is the perfect place to experience Norwegian cabin life, just relaxing inside at night and hiking or skiing during the day.

Trondheim – Røros

Røros at night

Another great combination with Trondheim would be to take the train down to Røros. This old copper mining town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and truly like nowhere else in Norway. It’s especially beautiful in the winter, as it gets lots of snow and is even known as Norway’s “Christmas town,” but I’ve also visited in late spring and loved it then too.

I’ve written more about visiting Røros here , including where to stay and eat.

lofoten in june hamnoy norway

Like I already said, when someone says they only have time to visit one place in Norway, Lofoten is one of my top choices.

I mean, Lofoten sort of has it all. Okay, it doesn’t have any big cities, but Svolvær is quite a large town with a lot going on, and then you’ll find mountains, beaches, fjords – you’ll even find people surfing here!

It also has a historical significance as a center for fishing, which is why the islands are covered in those iconic red fisherman cabins. You’ll get a great sense of Norway’s fishing history here, as well as the Viking history here.

But mostly, the Lofoten Islands are just really, really beautiful. In fact probably most Norwegians would say Lofoten is the most beautiful place in Norway, and I wouldn’t argue.

Lofoten has also grown in popularity in the past few years, and they’ve done a good job of keeping up with the increase in tourism by establishing more unique accommodation options and tour activities. There’s seriously so much to do here, and so many cool places to stay.

You could either fly into Bodø, rent a car there and take the ferry over to Lofoten, or fly into Svolvær and rent a car from there. It is possible to explore Lofoten by public transport, but you will be limited by bus schedules and will end up missing out on a few of the more off the beaten path areas.

I’ve written a guide to planning a Lofoten road trip here , a sea eagle RIB safari and Northern Lights chasing here , and horseback riding here . And here are 11 things to know before visiting the Lofoten Islands .

Helgeland Coast

camping on træna island helgeland coast norway

I love the Helgeland coast and while you would need more than a weekend to properly explore it, you could very easily visit just one of the islands.

The Helgeland coast has the same dramatic landscape and fisherman cabins of Lofoten, without all the tourists. This is seriously such a hidden gem in Norway. I lived in Helgeland for two years, and I believe the friendliest people in all of Norway are on the Helgeland coast. You will be warmly welcomed here!

I’ve written a complete guide to visiting the Helgeland coast here . 

This would be a really unique weekend trip to Norway, as not many foreign tourists plan trips here. So if you like to get off the beaten path and discover the local culture, and if you love beautiful landscapes, definitely consider spending a weekend on one (or a couple) of these islands.

Tromsø, Senja & Dyrøy

northern lights in senja, norway

After Bergen Tromsø might just be the second most popular weekend destination for tourists coming to Norway – at least in the winter during the Northern Lights season!

I’ve written more about things to do in Tromsø and where to stay here . To be honest I didn’t super click with Tromsø when I visited last summer and this past December, and I’ve heard so many locals complain that now it’s getting way too full of tourists. Then again I know a lot of people who absolutely adore Tromsø, so you might love it.

Update: it’s funny that I once wrote that, because I actually ended up moving to Tromsø and living there for two years!

But what I really loved was flying into Tromsø and then driving down to Senja and Dyrøy. The drive is beautiful and both islands are so magical.

You’ll probably only have time to go to one unless you take a long weekend (we had four nights so we flew into Tromsø and then spent two nights on Senja and two on Dyrøy). Senja has more dramatic scenery and famous hikes, while Dyrøy is the loveliest quiet escape into nature.

I’d say Senja will give you those big bucket list experiences with its Instagram famous hikes, whereas Dyrøy would give you a really authentic, off the beaten path local experience in Norway. I’ve written about visiting Senja here and visiting Dyrøy here .

There are lots of other nice places to spend a weekend in Norway as well, but these are the main ones I’d recommend, especially if you’re new to the country and want to see a highlight. I do include other spots in my longer itineraries for when you have more time to spend in Norway.

So I’m sorry if I missed out on your favorite spot – don’t be mad at me!

Five Days to One Week in Norway Itineraries

Bodø – helgeland – lofoten – vesterålen.

sea safari andenes whale watching norway polar night

If you only have a week in Norway, I really recommend sticking to the north and skipping Oslo and Bergen altogether.

Okay, you might think I’m biased because I lived in the north for four years, but actually I chose to move to the north largely because it’s the most beautiful part of Norway and is the region I’m most excited to write about and photograph. I love the open spaces here, there are fewer people (and tourists), and the landscape is much more dramatic than in the south.

If you want to cover a lot of ground, this Bodø – Helgeland – Lofoten – Vesterålen itinerary will show you the best of Northern Norway. It’s a busy schedule, but if you want to see as much as you possible can in one week, this is for you! I did this in the winter, but it would be equally amazing in other seasons as well.

You’ll spend a couple of nights on a quiet island on the Helgeland coast, a day or two experiencing city life in Norway, you’ll get to explore the famous Lofoten islands with their mountains and fjords, and then go up to quieter Vesterålen to see reindeer and whales. So you’ll really get to see all of the highlights of Norway within one week.

Tromsø – Senja – Dyrøy

Segla Mountain Senja Norway

If you want to head even farther north,  I also love a Tromsø – Senja – Dyrøy  trip.

You can fly into Tromsø and then drive straight to Senja, where you can spend two nights, and then head to the island of Dyrøy for another two nights. If you have a full week you could spend a night or two in Tromsø as well.

I’ve visited Senja both in the summer and winter and love each season there. Senja is a great hiking destination in the summer, plus in the summer you could stop by Sommarøy to see the amazing beaches there. And in the winter of course you get the chance to see the northern lights. 

view from the top of reinebringen hike in Reine, Lofoten, Norway

If you want a less hectic itinerary without so much driving, just spend a week on Lofoten !

The first time I visited Lofoten I stayed one week, and even after returning several times over the past few years I still feel like I have so much left to see on Lofoten. So you definitely won’t get bored.

This way you’ll be able to really explore the island, go on hikes, and get into the nature. I’d actually love to spend a full month on Lofoten one day, as there really is so much to explore there.

Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten

arctic dome igloo norway narvik

If you’re looking for those big Arctic bucket list experiences, this Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten itinerary  is for you. You’ll get to see reindeer, huskies, and whales, and in the summer the midnight sun and in the winter the Northern Lights, and you’ll even get to sleep in an Arctic Dome – one of the best experiences I’ve had in Norway.

When my friend who hates the cold came to visit me in Norway in January, this was the itinerary I made to win her over – and it did!

Bodø – Helgeland Coast

støtt helgeland coast norway winter

The Helgeland coast is so dreamy, and still relatively undiscovered, especially amongst foreign tourists. Plus the people here are so, so friendly. It’s a totally different experience than visiting the super crowded and touristy areas of southern Norway (where the locals don’t always love all the tourists).

I would suggest flying or taking a train to Bodø and spending a day there, and then getting the express boat to Støtt , Træna and maybe Lovund . If you stick to the small islands you won’t need to rent a car, as you can get around them by foot or by renting a bicycle.

Plus the small islands are so special. You’ll get an immediate sense of Norway’s culture and history here, and the locals really are so friendly.

Alternatively you could get the train or fly to Mosjøen and then rent a car there and explore the coast by car.

I’m going to try to do this trip both with and without a car and report back this summer!

Mosjøen – Helgeland Coast

When I lived in Mosjøen, I loved driving from Mosjøen out to the islands of Dønna and Herøy . I drove from Mosjøen to Sandnessjøen and then would catch a ferry to Dønna from there, but you could also fly directly to Sandnessjøen and then you wouldn’t even necessarily need to rent a car, because the islands are so small. Or it would be really fun to rent a bicycle in Sandnessjøen to explore the islands by bike!

dønna helgeland coast norway in summer

Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Kokelv – North Cape

arctic dome kokelv finnmark norway

This Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Kokelv – North Cape itinerary is one of my favorite northern lights itineraries, as it includes some of Norway’s best northern lights hotels .

Kiruna – Hammerfest – Hamningberg – Kirkenes – Rovaniemi

arctic treehouse hotel rovaniemi finland in summer

This is one of the most recent one week trips I’ve taken, and it was one of my all time favorites! And as a bonus, this will also take you through Sweden and Finland, so you get three countries in one trip.

This Kiruna – Hammerfest – Hamningberg – Kirkenes – Rovaniemi itinerary will take you to the very top of Europe, the border of Russia, and through some of the most beautiful spots in the Arctic. I did this trip in the summer under the midnight sun, but you would have an equally amazing trip in the winter under the Northern Lights.

Bergen – Aurland – Jotunheimen – Fjærland – Balestrand – Bergen

balestrand, Norway

If you want to see the best of fjord Norway, this is the trip for you. 

Spend one night at  Hotel Aurlandsfjord in Aurland, then take both the Aurlandsfjellet Scenic Route and Sognefjellet Scenic Route and drive up to Jotunheimen National Park and spend a night at  Leirvassbu Fjellstue . Add an extra night here if you want to take a day to hike in Jotunheimen.

Then drive down to Fjærland for a night at  Fjærland Fjordstue . Then take the Gaularfjellet Scenic Route and loop back to Balestrand for a night at Kviknes Hotel . Then drive back to Bergen the next day. 

Read more details about this itinerary here . 

Oslo – Rjukan – Odda – Hardangerfjord – Bergen

hardangerfjord fruit trees in bloom

If you want to do the traditional Oslo – Bergen – fjord loop but add in some special stops along the way, this Oslo – Rjukan – Odda – Hardangerfjord – Bergen itinerary is probably my favorite one week itinerary for southern Norway.  This is the first itinerary listed in the blog post. 

You’ll start in Oslo, then spend a night in the lovely town of Rjukan, drive along Hardangerfjord, and get to see Bergen. This is a busy itinerary with quite a bit of driving, but I think you will love it!

Oslo – Kristiansand – Stavanger – Bergen – Hardangervidda

If you want to do the famous hikes like Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten (the rock stuck between two cliffs), then this  Oslo – Kristiansand – Bergen – Hardangervidda itinerary  is for you!  This is the second itinerary listed in the blog post.

You’ll take a train from Oslo to Kristiansand, which is known as Norway’s “riviera,” and then you’ll head through some amazing mountain and coastal scenery through Stavanger towards Bergen. Then from Bergen you’ll drive over Hardangervidda, Northern Europe’s largest high mountain plateau, and through Telemark back down towards Kristiansand. You’ll see a huge variety of landscapes, as well as both villages and cities, so it makes for a great introduction to Norway.

Oslo – Røros – Trondheim – Kristiansund – Alesund by public transport

trondheim norway winter

Most of the itineraries I’ve mentioned require you to rent a car, partly because I always love a good road trip, and partly because a lot of areas of Norway don’t have frequent public transport. But this  Oslo – Røros – Trondheim – Kristiansund – Alesund itinerary  uses only public transport, with a combination of trains, ferries, and buses.  This is the third itinerary listed in the blog post. 

So usually when people want to see Norway by public transport they do the famous Oslo – Bergen Norway in a Nutshell route. But there’s a reason I’m not recommending that itinerary here.

I mean, if you really want to do it you can read more about how to plan Norway in a Nutshell here , but to be honest I really don’t think that route shows off the best of Norway, or the most beautiful sites. It’s a good route if you want something really easy, because you’ll basically be following the same route as everyone else on the buses, trains, and ferries, so you can just follow the crowd.

But if you’re a little more independent and want to get off the beaten path a bit and see even more impressive views, do this itinerary instead. It’s so much better, I promise!

You’ll get to see Røros, a really beautiful historic town, Trondheim and Ålesund, which are my top two favorite cities in Norway, and you’ll see some of the most stunning landscapes in southern Norway.

Ten Days to Two Weeks in Norway Itineraries

All of the one week itineraries I mentioned above could easily be stretched out longer. In fact the  Odda – Hardangerfjord – Bergen itinerary mentions an optional extension by adding Ålesund and the Atlantic Ocean Road .

But otherwise I recommend one of the itineraries below!

Bergen – Aurland – Balestrand – Fjærland – Jotunheimen – Geiranger – Trollstigen – Ålesund – Hjørundfjord – Stryn – Bergen 

geirangerfjord geiranger Norway

Spend one night at  Hotel Aurlandsfjord  in Aurland, then take the Aurlandsfjellet Scenic Route and drive to Balestrand for a night at  Kviknes Hotel . From Balestrand take the Gaularfjellet Scenic Route and then drive to Fjærland for a night at   Fjærland Fjordstue . Then take the Sognefjellet Scenic Route and drive into Jotunheimen National Park. Spend a night or two at   Leirvassbu Fjellstue . 

Then drive to Geiranger and spend a night at Hotel Union Geiranger . Then take the Geiranger – Trollstigen Scenic Route to Åndalsnes and spend a night at   G rand Hotel . Then drive to  Ålesund and spend a night or two at   Hotel 1904 . Then drive along  Hjørundfjorden  to Sæbø and stay at  Sagafjord Hotel . Then drive to Stryn and spend a night at Hjelle Hotel . Then either drive all the way back to Bergen, or split up the drive with a night at ThonPartner Hotel Førde . 

Røros – Trondheim – Kristiansund – Atlantic Ocean Road – Molde – Romsdalsfjord – Hotel Union Øye – Hjørundfjord – Hoddevik – Stryn – Hitra – Golden Detour

This is one of my all time favorite Norway itineraries, but you’ll need at least two weeks for this – it will be even better with three weeks. This fjord and culture itinerary takes you through Norway’s most beautiful fjords as well as some Norwegian cultural heritage sites.

hjørundfjord beautiful fjord in norway

Oslo – Bodø – Helgeland – Narvik – Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Lofoten

I absolutely loved this Oslo – Bodø – Helgeland – Narvik – Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Lofoten itinerary . You’ll get to see a huge portion of the country on the train ride up from Oslo to Bodø, and all of the stops on the way are some of my favorite places in Norway.

And if you have any longer, I would definitely consider adding a detour to Senja and even Dyrøy to your itinerary when you’re driving from Narvik up to Tromsø. You could also stop for a day in Oslo and Trondheim on your way up north.

And then if you have even more time, drive all the way up to the North Cape from Alta. It’s an extra 3 and a half hours of driving, but since you’ve made it this far north in Norway you might as well go as north as you can get!

marmorslottet hike mo i rana helgeland northern norway

Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten – Bodø – Mosjøen – Trondheim

If you want to check off a bunch of arctic bucket list experiences like husky sledding, staying with reindeer, overnighting in an Arctic dome, and whale watching, take a look at this  Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten – Bodø – Mosjøen – Trondheim itinerary .

Plus you’ll get to go to Sweden as well!

This is the full trip that my friend Danielle and I did when she visited me in Norway, so if you’re wondering what I personally recommend to my friends coming to Norway for the first time, this is it!

I wanted to include Narvik for a stay in an Arctic Dome, which is Norway’s answer to the glass igloo, and then Kiruna has both the husky and reindeer Airbnbs which I love so much.

And then Vesterålen is amazing for whales, reindeer, and nature views, and Lofoten is one of the most beautiful places in Norway. The train ride from Bodø to Mosjøen is the most beautiful train ride in all of Norway, and you’ll end up in Trondheim to see big city life in Norway.

In Trondheim we went to a bunch of fancy restaurants and quirky cafés, and then Danielle flew straight out of Trondheim Airport instead of having to go back down to Oslo.

cheap airbnb kiruna sweden husky sledding

Trondheim – Mosjøen – Vega – Lovund – Lofoten

When my two travel blogger friends Sam and Sher came to visit I knew I had to put together an epic itinerary for us, and I think I succeeded with this Trondheim – Mosjøen – Vega – Lovund – Lofoten itinerary .

This trip covers the best of Norway, in my opinion, with one of Norway’s most beautiful big cities, Trondheim, gorgeous islands along the Helgeland coast, and then the iconic Lofoten islands.

vega vegatrappa hike norway

Tromsø – Storslett – Kokelv – Hammerfest – Sørøya – Porsangerfjord – Vardø – Tana – Karasjok – Kautokeino – Alta – Lyngen – Tromsø (pet friendly!)

Okay this is a long one, but I actually did do it in two weeks and didn’t feel rushed. This Arctic itinerary includes stops in all of my favorite spots in the far north of Norway, including Lyngen, Hammerfest, and Vardø. It also takes you deep into Sami country in eastern Finnmark, to learn more about local Sami culture. Oh and this itinerary is totally pet friendly, as I did it with a dog!

Drakkar - Leviathan sculpture vardø norway

Getting to Norway

Lots of airlines fly into Oslo, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding good flights.

And if you’re on a budget you’re in luck – Norwegian is a budget airline with some of the cheapest connections between the US and Europe.

I fly Norwegian all the time, but just remember that it is a budget airline so you’ll have to pay extra for checked luggage, meals on board, and even water during your flight. I always bring several sandwiches and lots of snacks and a big water bottle that I refill at the airport (after security of course!) to tide me over.

But the planes are really nice with big windows, lots of overhead space, and they’ve designed the lighting to help combat jet lag (not really sure how or if it really works, but I like to think that it does!). There’s also an option to fly their premium class, which I believe comes with meals and maybe checked luggage – I’ve never flown premium on Norwegian though so I can’t say if it’s worth it or not. I do know that it’s not as fancy as business class on other airlines.

Oh and be sure not to exceed the carry on luggage limit if you don’t pay for checked luggage with Norwegian, because they are super strict. My friend recently flew Norwegian to visit me in Norway and she had to pay $200 to check her bag at the airport, which was about how much her flight had cost! I mean, at least her flight had been super cheap to start with, but it was still a bit of a blow.

I do love Norwegian, but sometimes you can find even better deals with other airlines, and if you do it’s definitely nicer to fly a non-budget airline. Luggage fees add up and it’s so much nicer to fly an airline with meals and drinks included. I often fly KLM and Finnair as well.

I’ve also flown Icelandair directly out of Trondheim, though they’re also a budget airline and super strict with luggage – a flight attendant once really yelled at me for having two bags with me, even though my second bag fit under the seat in front of me and my larger bag was a backpack that was smaller than most of the suitcases other people had brought on as carry ons. I definitely hadn’t broken any rules but she was so mean about it anyway, and clearly I’m still feeling very bitter about the whole experience, haha.

So yeah, try to find a flight with a non-budget airline if you don’t want the added stress.

My go-to for finding flights are Skyscanner and Kiwi.com. Kiwi.com especially is a sneaky travel hack tool that can find great connections that other search engines don’t include – I’ve written more about Kiwi.com and how to use it here .

You’ll probably be flying into and out of Oslo Gardermoen Airport which seriously is one of the nicest airports in the world. And guys, I travel for a living so I spend a lot of time in airports.

Pro tip #1: if you want to look like a local, head straight to the Tax Free shop once you land. It’s always funny getting off flights in Oslo because every Norwegian will go straight to Tax Free to buy alcohol, and it’s only the tourists that skip it, haha. But seriously, if you do want to drink in Norway and are on a budget, you’ll save a lot of money by picking up something here.

Pro tip #2:  Don’t get the Flytoget, or Airport Express Train, into Oslo from the Airport. It’s only three minutes faster than the regional train and costs twice as much!

Again, it’s only ever tourists who get the express (“express”) train while all Norwegians get the Vy train. You’ll see the Vy (formerly NSB) ticket machines on your right once you exit customs and you can buy your tickets there. You can also check the train schedule at vy.no .

What to Pack for Norway

The most important thing about packing for Norway is to bring lots of layers. The weather here is really unpredictable so it’s important to be ready for lots of different temperatures throughout the day.

Oh and you’ll definitely want waterproof shoes here, whether that’s hiking boots in the summer or winter boots in the winter.

I’ve written a complete guide for what to pack for winter in Norway here, and a guide to what to pack for summer in Norway here.

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Riley - Riley's Roves says

March 1, 2019 at 5:51 am

SERIOUSLY cannot wait to get to Norway one day. Thanks for posting these! It’ll help me plan when the time comes.

Silvia says

March 1, 2019 at 5:01 pm

I hope you love it as much as I do when you do come!

Alberto says

March 3, 2019 at 10:07 pm

Hi Silvia Hope this note finds you well

I have been reading your blog and I have to say that is really great, I love it, honestly speaking I am writing to you as even though your blog has plenty of information about different routes and places to visit taking into account the amount of time that a person will be spending in Norway, my case is a bit special as I am traveling:

For a whole week, from Saturday 8th to Saturday 15th of June (we are arriving in Oslo around 10am on the 8th, and we will be leaving around 12pm on the 15th) With my girlfriend and our son, who is nearly three years old He doesn’t do long car trips very well He does not do bus journeys very well either… He likes trains and planes though I would personally like combining the southwest with the north, if possible Basically our idea is to see Oslo (we’ll be there for a day), Bergen (I guess we should…), some fjords (obviously :)), and maybe go to the north (fly to Tromso…)

Bearing in mind those facts, what route – option would you recommend me? I don’t mind taking trains and flights (especially I prefer taking flights, if possible…)

Please let me know, and apologies for bothering you as I am sure you are busy with your blog and answering lots of questions from different people

Thanks very much in advance Alberto P.S.: By the way I also wrote to you an email just in case you would not read this comment… 🙂

March 5, 2019 at 2:02 am

These look great and are very helpful! I am heading to Norway solo for the second time in April. I decided to mix it up a little by spending 4 days in Bergen and then taking public transportation to Odda for three days. I didn’t want to stress my time too thin and travel too much by public transit, plus I wasn’t sure of all of the options, but it looks like you really can get around with your Oslo – Røros etc. route.

Francesco Trebbi says

March 17, 2019 at 2:38 pm

Absolutely great posting. I actually happy when i done this topic. I am excited world have a excellent author. Always i am waiting for next reading. Thanks a lot for great posting share.

Kym Channell says

March 23, 2019 at 9:19 pm

Thanks for all this info – it’s a fantastic blog! I’ve just booked for 11 days total in Norway, including flying in and out days in June and will be definitely taking into consideration some of the itineraries you have discussed. Wasn’t sure about booking to go there initially as only considered it when cheaper flights to Iceland got booked out, but after reading your blogs starting to feel super excited about it! Your efforts in doing the blog are much appreciated – thanks!

March 24, 2019 at 1:22 pm

I’m so happy to hear that – I personally prefer Norway over Iceland 🙂

May 14, 2019 at 6:41 pm

So I’m seeing mixed reviews. Is it bad to travel in mid May? I will be there from May 17-June 3 and after reviewing these itineraries I’m starting to get a bit nervous. I picked Norway because it was on the best travel destinations for May. If anyone knows anything please help me ease my mind.

May 15, 2019 at 6:17 am

I think that’s a perfect time to come! Just bring layers in case it’s still cold. It will be beautiful though, and far less crowded.

June 17, 2019 at 1:07 pm

Incredible pictures on this post! I have been to about half of these places, but totally inspired to go to the others. I wonder if you have a favorite.

Florencia Coldman says

June 20, 2019 at 12:19 am

Hello, how are you? We are a party of six, we where planning on going from Tromso to Senja and then Lofoten around Christmas. Do you think it’s too dangerous that Rout in late December taking into consideration that we would be driving a Car for six passengers? We would really appreciate your take on this matter Kind Regards Florencia

Amber Hill says

June 20, 2019 at 1:57 pm

Hi Silvia, your blog is amazing! I am sitting here at 10pm with many hours of reading ahead of me!! I am struggling to put together an itinerary for Norway so all your blog posts will be a great help. I am especially excited by all the ‘off the tourist trail’ information. This is what I am looking forward to exploring. We are a family of 4. Kids are great little travellers. We are looking at September (2020) as I want to avoid the crowds over June/July (when our winter school hol’s are). The Lonely Planet says that many places close down in September? Do you agree? Or will we be ok to find accommodation?? We are coming from Melbourne – it’s a long way!! Many thanks, Amber

Tamara D says

July 28, 2019 at 4:39 pm

Hi Silvia!!! Your blog is amazing!!!!! Thank you for taking the time to give so many details and tips! My friends and I plan to take a girls trip March 28-April 4, 2020. What towns do you recommend seeing with that time frame during that time of year?

August 3, 2019 at 9:13 am

Silvia, really great post with all details, pictures and very helpful to plan our tour to Norway. Thank you for such a wonderful article!

Anoushka Sivaraman says

January 22, 2020 at 6:34 pm

Really enjoyed reading your blog. I’m travelling in April and flying into Oslo. Can you please suggest a 5 day itinerary which would include public transport? Is it reasonable to do Oslo Bergen and Alesund in that time? Do let me know!

January 23, 2020 at 12:00 pm

Ålesund is quite far from Bergen so it would be hard to fit it in, unless you fly. Best 5-day public transport itinerary would probably be a diy Norway in a nutshell: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/nutshell-tour-diy-review/

Suzie S Russell says

February 4, 2020 at 11:09 pm

Hi Silvia, I am so jealous that you have gotten to travel all these places you’ve been. My daughter and I are hoping to come to Norway either this fall (early November) or next March. The things we want to see and do are 2-3 of the southwestern fjords, Sognefjord, Lysefjord, Hardangerfjord. I don’t know how far apart they are but is it possible to take a ferry to view these wonders? Is it possible to do just a day trip? Also, we want to do a husky sled ride , reindeer encounter/contact and possible sledge ride, spend one night in the arctic dome in Narvik, visit Lofoten with an overnight stay and head to Senja/Trosmo and if we have time maybe head to Kiruna, Sweden and maybe see the ice hotel. We have about 9 days and we’d like to fly in and out of Bergen. We are having a hard time coming up with a suitable itinerary because the distances are so vast and everything is super expensive. Could you help us?

February 9, 2020 at 1:17 pm

First of all I would map out how you are going to get between all of these places, as the distances are quite large – you might want to cut out a couple of places so you’re not super rushed. If I were you I might actually cut out the southwestern fjords altogether and just stick to Northern Norway/Sweden. You could fly into Svolvær in Lofoten, or Narvik, or Tromsø. Plus that way you’ll have more of a chance to see the northern lights!

Suzy Zid says

February 11, 2020 at 2:49 am

Thank you for the wonderful posts, what an amazing blog! I have a question; I saw a few times in different posts on your blog that if you’d have to choose between southwestern Norway and northern Norway, you’d prefer the northern part. However, I am curious because if I were to google the attractions in Norway, there are not much in the north compared to in the southwest – which has plenty!

I also read a lot on sites like TripAdvisor that locals would recommend a longer time in the north, but wouldn’t really go into specifics. The places that the locals actually mentioned are Lofoten, Senja, and maybe Vesteralen. Tromsø, Alta and Narvik are said to be meh, and nobody really suggested Bodø.

So the thing is, I want to believe the locals saying the northern part is better than the southwestern, because my friends and I are splitting our 17 day-roadtrip in Norway into these two parts and I want to convince my travel mates that we should spend more time in north than the other, but google searches are not really helping!

What ratio of days would you suggest we do? I was thinking 7 in southwest and 10 in north, but maybe you have a better advise. Also could you elaborate a little bit as to why you’d choose the northern part rather than southwestern part? Thank you so much if you decided to reply to my comment!

February 12, 2020 at 1:43 pm

Travel in Norway isn’t really about attractions. At least I find that the best experiences here are ones with nature, and honestly the entire country is beautiful. You can find a beautiful hike anywhere here, so the famous ones actually end up being the least appealing, because they’re filled with lots of tourists and souvenir shops. I think it depends a bit on what time of year you are visiting, but I think your plan to spend 7 days in the south and 10 in the north is perfect. I mean personally I would prefer spending all the time in the north, but the south is a bit different so it would be worth experiencing as well if you have the time. The landscape in the north is more dramatic – the mountains are more jagged and the beaches clearer – there tend to be fewer tourists, and then we also have more reindeer here. And if you come in the summer you can experience the midnight sun, and in the winter the northern lights – neither of which you can experience in southern Norway (unless you’re very lucky with the northern lights). Senja and Vesterålen are beautiful, as well as the whole Helgeland region. I also love the Lyngen Alps and Finnmark – you can find my posts from all of those places here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/life-travel-norway/ Hope that helps and have a great trip!

September 7, 2021 at 7:18 pm

Silvia, Thanks for maintaining this sight. Very informative. In 2022 summer I will be traveling Norway from USA for 2 weeks. This will be my first visit to the country and like to cover the key scenic spots along with hiking to the major picturesque rocks. Main purpose of the trip is nature photography. Mostly I like to drive (wherever possible) to explore the areas at my own pace. Can you pls suggest a feasible itinerary? Thanks

Suzanne says

July 6, 2022 at 12:06 am

Hello, I hope you trip goes great! I am traveling there for the 1st time in Oct. Did Silvia answer you? I would love to know if she did and share the info. Where are all the places you will see?

Bao Nguyen says

December 29, 2021 at 8:28 pm

Hi, I’m traveling to Norway 2022 for the End of Jan- early Feb. The Aurora Borealis is my main attraction so I’ll Be landing in Tromso, but wish to visit places like Sommaroy, Lofoten, and Bodo.

You filled this blog with so many insightful details! I was wondering if you a car was necessary for all these places or if the public transportation would suffice?

Lisa Rubin says

February 22, 2022 at 5:32 pm

Hi Silvia, I am planning a trip with my husband and two grown daughters. We would like to try and combine Fiords and Lofoten and possibly hike Kjeragbolten. This would be about a two week road trip. Do you have an itinerary you would recommend? Also, trying to decide between early July or mid August ? We want to see the best scenery, but in a less touristy way if possible. I would appreciate any advice. Thanks ! Lisa

Stamatis says

May 14, 2022 at 2:26 pm

Hello Silvia, I just bought your Southern Norway Travel Guide, which is very helpful, but now I’m torn between two itineraries, so I thought that you might be able to help. I arrive at Oslo and I will be using public transportation.

1) A version of your public transportation itinerary for 11 days.

Day 1: Oslo – Roros Day 2: Roros – Trondheim Day 3: Trondheim – Kristiansund Day 4: Kristiansund – Alesund Day 5: Alesund (Hjorundfjord Cruise) Day 6: Alesund  Day 7: Alesund – Geiranger – Andaslnes Day 8: Andaslnes (Hike Trollstigen) Day 9: Andaslnes – Oslo Day 10-11: Oslo

2) My original idea Day 1: Oslo – Andaslnes Day 2: Andaslnes (Hike Trollstigen) Day 3: Andaslnes – Geiranger – Alesund Day 4: Alesund (Hjorundfjord Cruise) Day 5: Alesund Day 6: Alesund – Stryn Day 7: Stryn (Glacier Hike) Day 8: Stryn – Lom (or Lillehammer) Day 9: Lom (or Lillehammer) – Oslo Day 10-11: Oslo

As you can see my two main goals are to visit Alesund and Trollstigen! The first itinerary allows me to visit Trondheim and Kristiansund (and the Atlantic Road) but the second is a little more relaxed and allows me to enjoy more of Norway’s nature. On day 9 I’ve added a stop to one of these two towns because I don’t want to travel for 8 hours straight and I’ve heard that they are charming. What’s your suggestion? 

P.S. I understand, having read your blog thoroughly, that Northern Norway is better but I have the impression that moving around in the north using public transportation is more difficult and that’s why I chose to visit the south. At least I took your advice and focused on your favourite fjords…

Thanks in advance and keep up the good work Stamatis

May 16, 2022 at 1:19 pm

You’ll see more with the first itinerary (I especially do love Røros) but if you would prefer a more relaxed itinerary I would definitely go with the second one! And you’re right, southern Norway has much better public transportation connections, so that’s a good choice for you.

May 16, 2022 at 7:25 pm

Thanks for the reply!

I think I’ll go for the second idea and try to be a little more relaxed, you can’t see everything in one trip after all. After my research, and reading your blog, I started planning a Helgeland road trip, I just need to persuade some friends to follow the plan, and Trondheim (and Roros) would be a great starting point for that…

May 28, 2022 at 2:47 pm

Hi Silvia! Have been reading most of your articles on Norway road trips (& I really want to thank you cause they are amazing and very informative!). You inspired me to organize a road trip at the end of June. I’m also planning to purchase your Southern Norway Travel Guide, but I’d first like to define a topline tour (cause I’m indecisive between the below and planning something around Lofoten). For now I’m planning: Day 1- visit Bergen Day 2 – drive to Hardangerfjord (& explore) Day 3 – Trolltunga Hike Day 4 – Drive until Stegastein (& sleep somewhere in the area) Day 5 – Drive to Geirangerfjord Day 6 – Explore from Geiranderfjord to Trolltunga (morning) & then drive to Ålesund (in the afternoon) Day 7 – Explore Ålesund Day 8 – not sure, potentially drive north until the Atlantic Ocean Road, or take a fjords cruise from Ålesund (though I’m not a fan of crowded cruises) Day 9 – Way back to Bergen (do you recommend taking the 7hours drive from Ålesund to Bergen? Any must-see spots that you’d suggest to stop by?)

Do you think this is a feasible plan? Any must-see spots that I have missed? Especially the last 2 days are not very clear how to best use the time.

Would love to hear your thoughts, it would help a lot! Thank you in advance, Ceci

Bhagya says

June 2, 2022 at 4:03 pm

Hi Sylvia, First off, Congratulations on this very extensive and eminently readable blog. Wish you many more journeys! I am thinking of spending twelve days in Norway, between the 30th of August and 12th of September. We are 3 of us, myself (57), my husband (62) and son (23) from India. We were wanting to do the Fjords and the natural wonders and the Great Atlantic Road in a car after visiting the Myskoxcentrum in Harjadalen. I will go through your blog for details and suggestions. There is one bit of information, I would be very grateful to have from you. I am recovering from a knee injury and so long hikes and walks to view points are not going to be possible. In this context can you tell me the places that need a lot of walking that we should or can avoid. This will help greatly in framing our itinerary. Many thanks

June 2, 2022 at 4:22 pm

You should be fine with your itinerary – the views will be beautiful from the road as well!

Nilesh says

March 22, 2024 at 5:57 pm

Can u send me ur Norway itnery for route this August I am planning for three weeks. Thanks in advance 🙏

July 4, 2022 at 8:23 am

Hey! Thanks for all this info! I’m trying to gauge the cost of a 10 day/2 week road trip in Norway. I haven’t planned any details yet, but I’d probably follow one of the itineraries posted above. Do you have any approximation for how much gas would cost? (Or around how many miles such a road trip would cover) thanks!

Nicole Wahlgren says

August 25, 2022 at 5:29 pm

Hello, I have been reading your blogs for three months now because I am going to Norway for two weeks in October. I want to see both some of the south and some of the north. Is it reasonable to cover Bergen, Alesund, Trondheim, Bodo, Lofoton, etc. all in two weeks? I am solo traveling, so my schedule is very flexible. Also, I am currently trying to find my family who lives in Norway via family contacts & ancestory. I know we had some family outside of Trondheim for awhile, but it would be cool to meet them if I get a chance. They were originally from the Namsos area. Just curious what your thoughts are because I want to see a lot of the country, but also not be overwhelmed by my schedule.

October 1, 2022 at 8:31 am

I just stumbled across your page and it is great to see you are not focused on the normal touristy things and more about seeing the “real” country. Which is the way I prefer to travel.

I have spent the last several hours trawling through your page and will no doubt spend a lot more time. But I wanted to ask: Can you recommend a place to do a horse trek or even just several days of riding.

I will be travelling in either May or June of next year, I am thinking I will stick to public transport and will more than likely be in the Southern region (as it is my first trip to Norway and treating this as a taster, because will be going back in winter at some stage to do Northern.

Ideally somewhere where I can ride to experience the beauty of Norway.

Also interested to hear what you think it would be like travelling solo in Norway.

Marlene LeGates says

November 22, 2022 at 8:22 pm

Your web site is awesome but now I’m totally bewildered as to where to go for our 3-week trip to Norway in June.We like to trave leisurely, so we don’t want to drive (rental car) more than 3 hrs per day (and hpefully many days with no driving at all) and we liike to do gentle hikes and perhaps some kayaking. Fly in and out of Bergen and stick to the south? Fly in and out of Narvik and stick to the north? It doesn’t seem reasonable to try to co a combo. (We are coming from Canada but it’s much cheaper to fly into the UK and then pick up Norwegian Air, kgives us more flexibility as well). Most itineraries are much too rushed. So, some specific questions: I guess you would rate the northern scenery as even more spectacular than int he south, right? I’ve heard that the Lofoten Islands are very poular now with long fery waits; is that true? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

November 25, 2022 at 1:43 pm

If this is your first trip to Norway I would recommend flying in and out of Bergen and sticking to the south. That way you can explore Norway’s most beautiful fjords, and you won’t have as long distances to cover as in the north. Have fun!

nwa-non says

March 20, 2023 at 9:14 pm

First of all, a wonderful blog and a fantastic resource for visitors to Norway!! Thank you!

I’m planning for an 8-day trip to Norway in August. Flying in and out of Oslo. Mainly want to visit Northern part (but realize that Tromso/Lofoton Islands will not be possible).

Here is my tentative itinerary. Will be renting a car and driving around everywhere.

Day 1 – Fly in to OSL, stay the night at Oslo Day 2 – Start for Lillehammer. Spend night at Oppdal. Day 3 – Start for Trondheim, spend night Day 4 – Start for Ålesund, spend night Day 5 – Visit Geirangerfjord. Spend night at Ålesund Day 6 – Start for Flåm, spend night Day 7 – Start for Oslo, spend night Day 8 – Fly out of OSL

Do you think this is doable without being overwhelmed? If I rent an EV, are chargers readily available? I’m used to driving long distances so that’s not a concern.

March 21, 2023 at 2:39 pm

Hm I think it would make a lot more sense to fly from Oslo to Bergen and rent a car there, but if you really I want to leave from Oslo I think the trip is doable. I would skip Trondheim and head straight to Ålesund instead. And it doesn’t really make sense to drive back to Ålesund after Geirangerfjord, so I would stay somewhere along the fjord instead (here are my suggestions: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/best-geirangerfjord-hotels/ ). Or you could stay somewhere along Hjørundfjord instead ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/hjorundfjord-norway-beautiful-fjord/ ). Instead of staying in Flåm I might consider the Kviknes Hotel in Balestrand or Fjærland Hotel, depending on if you like a big grand hotel (Kviknes) or smaller cute hotel (Fjaerland) as they’re both a lot nicer than Flåm. I’ve written about both here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/best-sognefjord-accommodation/ and here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/aurlandsfjellet-sognefjellet-bergen-road-trip/

April 3, 2023 at 4:44 pm

Thanks for your response!! I’ll look into your recommendations.

Aljoša Gabor says

April 27, 2023 at 10:52 pm

Hi! I tried to purchase your Southern Norway tour guide, but for some reason Gumroad does not want to accept my credit card. Is there any other way to purchase the guide?

Fisher Ahsan says

May 16, 2023 at 9:44 pm

Last year i visited Lofoten . a really lovely place

Holly Taylor says

July 29, 2023 at 5:53 pm

Hello thank you for this amazing blog!! I’m curious if we have 5 nights and are going to Norway on Nov 10 this year. I’ve read a lot about staying south due to the weather and shorter daylight. Would you have recommendations for 5 days in Nov? I want to be sure we plan where we can see the most. My husband & I are traveling with our 22 year old son and we are more interested in seeing all of the beautiful scenery and fjords etc. We will be coming from 7 days in Iceland.

July 31, 2023 at 11:44 am

If you want to see the fjords I would recommend flying to Ålesund and basing yourself there: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/alesund-travel-guide/ You could rent a car and explore Hjørundfjord: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/hjorundfjord-norway-beautiful-fjord/ . Or if you want a chance to see the northern lights, you could go to Lofoten: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/lofoten-road-trip/ or Vesterålen: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/vesteralen-whales-reindeer/ or Tromsø + Lyngenfjord: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/lyngen-alps-blaisvatnet-fjord-cabins/

November 12, 2023 at 5:02 pm

Hello Silvia! I appreciate all of information you’ve provided! My friends and I are in the early stages of planning a six-day trip to Northern Norway in February. We’re specifically interested in itineraries that rely solely on public transportation. Here are a couple of options we’re considering:

Option 1: Fly to Trondheim Take the Nordland line from Trondheim to Bodø Board the express boat Nordlandsekspressen (NEX1) from Bodø towards Sandnessjøen Explore various islands along the way Eventually reach Sandnessjøen for hiking and exploration Fly back to Oslo from Sandnessjøen

Option 2: Take a bus from Bodø to Hamarøy Continue by bus from Hamarøy to Narvik Travel by bus from Narvik to Tromsø Conclude the trip by flying back from Tromsø

Option 3: Start in Bodø Take a Hurtigruten ship to Tromsø Participate in organized trips/excursions from Tromsø

Considering our status as students and budget constraints, which option would you recommend? Your insights would be immensely helpful. Thank you!

November 14, 2023 at 8:58 am

Six days is such a short time, I think I wouldn’t try to do quite as much. I would maybe fly into Bodø, take the express boat down to Træna, Støtt, etc. Then return to Bodø and fly back to Oslo. If you really wanted to see another area as well you could take the ferry to Lofoten.

December 1, 2023 at 5:00 am

Hello! I am going to be visiting Norway for the first time in late April. I want to work from North to South with the end destination being Copenhagen. How difficult would it be during this time to take public transport from Trondheim to Oslo and see all the southern fjords along the way? Oslo to Copenhagen via ferry would be the final move.

December 1, 2023 at 10:18 pm

The most direct public transport from Trondheim to Oslo would be by train, but then you’d miss all the fjords. You could instead take the express boat to Kristiansund and then take buses and/or ferries down to Bergen, and then the train from Bergen to Oslo. Buses in Norway are a bit of a pain and expensive, but certainly doable!

January 21, 2024 at 5:45 pm

Hello Silvia, Thank you for all the useful information on your blog. I would appreciate some advice on journey times to get to Tromsø. I’m visiting Norway with my family this August for 19 days, including returning to Hoek Van Holland. We are driving our campervan from the UK (via Harwich / Hoek van Holland overnight ferry), and want to head straight to Tromsø, with some time for stopping to sleep/eat on the way. We’ll spend a few days there and then head back, stopping to camp, explore the countryside and also possibly visit Bergen/Oslo/beaches. Would it be best to head up to Tromsø via Sweden, then back down through Norway with more time to explore? Can you recommend some route ideas with rough travel times/good places to stop on the way? Thank you 🙂

January 24, 2024 at 12:05 pm

Driving up through Sweden will be quicker, and much less scenic, so I think driving back down through Norway is a great idea. Spend some time on the Helgeland Coast ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/helgeland-coast-road-trip/ ) and then you can drive down the west coast through Ålesund ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/alesund-travel-guide/ ) and Bergen ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/top-29-things-to-do-in-bergen-norway/ ) as well. From Tromsø to Bergen, via Ålesund, is about 30 hours of driving. You can follow this road trip plan for the west coast, except in reverse (ending in Bergen instead of beginning in Bergen): https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/aurlandsfjellet-sognefjellet-bergen-road-trip/

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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where to visit in norway in april

The Best Time to Visit Oslo – and When to Avoid it!

OsloWaterfront

Oslo; it’s the land of hygge, beautiful fjords, and thriving nature. It’s a city of many faces. To some, the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway; to others, it’s the ideal place to spend an action-packed summer holiday. To me? Well, it’s a bit of both.

Travelers come from all over the world to experience Norway’s Viking capital, but there’s one question on everyone’s mind – when exactly is the best time to visit? The answer, unfortunately, is not so simple. Oslo is a city that experiences all four seasons, and each has its own unique charm.

The good news is that there really is no wrong time to visit Oslo. But, depending on what you’re looking for in a vacation, there are certain times of year that are better than others. To ensure you make the most of your trip, I’ve put together the ultimate seasonal guide to the best (and worst) times to visit Oslo.

Read on to find out when is the best time for you to travel to Norway’s picturesque capital city!

Hint: See if you can figure out what the missing month is!

You might also like: My Top Hotel Recommendations for Bergen

Fall ( Mid-August – October)

Akershus Fortress in Oslo Norway

Say hello to crisp air, beautiful autumn colors, and long walks along the Aker River. Fall is a wonderful time to visit Oslo if you’re looking to escape the crowds but still enjoy all the city has to offer.

There are significantly fewer tourists than in peak season, which means shorter lines at attractions, cheaper accommodation rates, and a more authentic experience overall. Just be sure to pack a jacket – the weather can be unpredictable!

 You might also like: One of My Favorite Hotels in Oslo

The fall season may start in mid-August or early September. The average fall temperature is +12C, but it begins to get even colder as October approaches. There’s no doubt that some of the most beautiful months in Oslo, Norway, are September and October, when the sky often glows in warm hues, the air is crisp, and leaves start to turn yellow.

Best things to do in Oslo during the Fall season:

●      Visit the Oslo Opera House – One of Oslo’s most iconic buildings, the Opera House is worth a visit even if you don’t plan on seeing a show. The sloping white exterior is made from Italian marble and granite, and offers incredible views of the surrounding fjord. The Opera House is free to visit, but tours cost 120 kroner (about $15) for each adult and 70 kroner (around $8.50) for children between the ages of 4 and 16. Oslo Passholders get a discounted rate.

●      Appreciate Art and Nature at Vigelandsparken ( Frogner Park ) – This is one of the most famous landmarks in Oslo, with thousands of people uploading photos of the sculptures in the park every year. It has more than 900 distinct works of art by Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland, making it the world’s biggest sculpture park. It’s a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon, especially in September when the roses are in full bloom. If you visit in October, you’ll be able to see the leaves changing color.

●      Explore the VÍKINGR –  This is an immersive exhibit that transports visitors to the Viking Age and immerses them in the daily life of Vikings. See if you can spot the Gjermundbu helmet while you’re there, it’s the best preserved Viking helmet in the world! Check out my previous article to learn more about this incredible exhibition.

●      Hiking in Nordmarka – Nordmarka is Oslo’s green lung, and it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, but you’re also sure to find a quiet spot to relax. The hiking trails in Nordmarka are usually well-marked, but a map is recommended for lengthier stretches.

●      Sample Norwegian Comfort Food – Kjøttkaker (meatballs) , Pølse i Lompe (hot dog in a potato tortilla) and Vafler (Norwegian waffles) are just three of the many delicious Norwegian dishes you’ll find in Oslo. Be sure to also try out a shot of Aquavit – Norway’s national spirit!

Winter (December – Mid(end)-March

where to visit in norway in april

Photo: Michael Ankes – @w83design

Hibernation mode is real in Oslo during the winter months. From December until March, the city is often blanketed in snow, and temperatures hover around the freezing point. This might not sound appealing, but wintertime in Oslo, Norway, can actually be quite magical.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Christmas season, you’ll be treated to festive markets, twinkling lights, and gingerbread galore. However, even if you’re not visiting during December, winter is still a great time to experience Oslo’s unique culture. Ice skating, cross-country skiing, and sledding are just some of the fun activities you can enjoy in the snow.

Best things to do in Oslo during the Winter season:

●      Visit the Christmas markets – One of the best things to do in Oslo during winter is to visit the Christmas markets. You’ll find them in various locations around the city. Expect to find handicrafts, gifts, and, of course, plenty of festive food and drink. Check here for 2022-2023 Christmas festival dates!

●      Go Skiing, Sledding, or Skating! – Oslo is the perfect place to enjoy winter sports. There are several ski resorts within a day-trip distance, and cross-country skiing is also popular in the Oslo forest. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, go ice skating at one of the city’s many rinks. Some of the most popular downhill ski resorts near Oslo include Winter Park, Tryvann, and Grefsenkollen ski slope. For cross country skiing start out at Sognsvann or Frognerseteren.

●      Embrace Nature – Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. One of the best things about Oslo is its proximity to nature. There are several parks and forests within the city limits, so you can easily escape into the wilderness for a day of hiking or cross-country skiing. Nordmarka is a particularly popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

●      Hibernate With a Good Book – If you’re not a fan of the cold, you can always hibernate indoors with a good book. Oslo has many cozy cafes where you can relax with a cup of coffee and a good read. Deichmanske Bibliotek in Bjørvika is one of my favorite places to curl up with a book. It’s the city’s main public library, and it has an extensive collection of both Norwegian and international literature.

●      Rent a Cabin or a Hotel room In the Snowy Oslo Forest – For a truly Norwegian experience, rent a cabin in the Oslo forest. There are many cabins to choose from, and they’re the perfect place to relax after a long day of skiing or hiking. It’s a truly magical experience, and it’s one you won’t soon forget.

From the Voksenasen Hotel , the cross-country ski trails of Oslomarka (the Oslo forest) are directly accessible from just outside the front door.

You might also like: My Top Hotel Recommendations for Bergen  

Spring (April – Mid-June)

Spring in Oslo Norway

As the snow begins to melt and the days get longer, Oslo comes alive. The city is filled with blooming flowers, and the trees are starting to turn a lovely shade of green. Spring is the perfect time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. Easter is particularly lovely in Oslo, as many flock to the mountains.

The 17th of May is our national day and a big celebration in Oslo. The streets are filled with people in traditional dress, and there are parades and celebrations throughout the city.

If you’re planning a trip to Oslo in the Spring, be sure to pack your walking shoes. This is the perfect time of year to explore the city on foot, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in that fresh flowery air. Spring is also an excellent time for outdoor activities, so don’t hesitate to get out and about. Hiking, biking, and kayaking are all popular activities in Oslo at this time!

Some of the best things to do in Oslo during the springtime include:

●      Take a Boat Ride on the Oslofjord – As the weather gets warmer, the Oslofjord becomes a popular spot for boat rides. This is a great way to see some of Oslo’s best scenery; you’ll have the opportunity to see charming landscapes, fantastic city views, and the beautiful hills surrounding it. There are several boat tours to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.

Find cruises on the Oslo fjord here .

●      Explore the Akershus Fortress –  The Akershus Fortress is a must-see for any history buff. This medieval castle is one of Oslo’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Be sure to explore the fortress grounds, as there is a lot to see.

●      Visit the Munch Museum – The Munch Museum is one of Oslo’s most famous museums. This museum is home to a collection of paintings by Edvard Munch, one of Norway’s most renowned artists. You’ll also find several other artworks on display, and you’re sure to learn something new.

●      Hike to Holmenkollen – One of the best things to do in Oslo is to hike to the top of Holmenkollen. This is one of Oslo’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s definitely worth the effort. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, and you’ll have the opportunity to see some of Oslo’s best scenery. Oslo Hiking actively plans scenic trips in the area for whoever wants to join; you can book via their website for 75 euros.

●      Kayak on the Oslofjord –  As the weather gets warmer, the Oslofjord becomes a popular spot for kayaking. This is a great way to get some exercise, and you’ll have the opportunity to take in some of Oslo’s best scenery. Throughout it, you’ll see the beautiful city sights and wilderness highlights like bays, beaches, and islands. No prior kayaking experience is required.

Find available kayaking tours on the Oslofjord here.

Summer (Mid-June – Mid-August)

Oslo Visit in the Summer

My personal favorite; Summertime. In Oslo, late Summer is often referred to as “sensommer.” The days begin to get longer, the weather is warm, and the city is filled with people enjoying the outdoors. This is the perfect time to visit if you’re looking for some fun in the sun. Swimming in the fjord, fishing, park life, staying up late, and enjoying the summer nights should all be on your to-do list.

In the Summer, you can pretty much do everything you can do in the Spring, but better. The weather is nicer, so you can enjoy all of the outdoor activities without worrying about the cold. This is also the busiest time of year for tourism, so be sure to book your hotel room in advance.

Some of the best things to do in Oslo during the summertime include:

●      Swim in Oslofjord! –  As the weather gets warmer, the beautiful fjord becomes a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The fjord is incredibly clean and refreshing, and there are plenty of places along the waterfront to just dive right in! This is a great way to cool off, and you’ll have the opportunity to take in some of Oslo’s best scenery. You can find entrances either from the docks, or from some public beaches. There is one at Bygdøy, one next to the Opera House, or jump off the docks right next to the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Contemporary Art!

●      Fjord Galore –  Oslofjord is unsurprisingly lovely in the Summer. As I mentioned above, this is a great time to swim, but it’s also awesome for fishing, or just simply enjoying the views. On Oslofjord, you can also take a boat ride, kayak, or splish splash while taking in all of the beauty Oslo offers. Many people also enjoy taking the small ferries out to the islands for swimming and a BBQ!

●      Visit the Norsk Folkemuseum Open-Air Folk Museum – The Norsk Folkemuseum, located on Bygdøy in Oslo, Norway, has one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of artifacts from all social classes and areas of the country. It also features a large open-air museum with more than 150 reconstructed structures from across Norway.

●      Rooftop Concerts at the Opera – During the summertime, the Opera House hosts a number of rooftop concerts, which are a great way to enjoy some live music. Sit back and relax as you let the sweet sounds of the city wash over you.

You might also like: The Best Low Budget Hotel in Oslo

So, Did You Figure it Out?

If you remember correctly, I mentioned that there would be a missing month at the beginning of this post. Did you figure it out?

It’s November! But why November, you ask?

Well, in my opinion, it’s just not a great time to visit Oslo. The weather is starting to get colder, and the days are shorter. There are also fewer things to do, as many of the tourist attractions are closed for the winter. It’s cold, it’s dark, and it’s often raining. So, in my opinion, it’s just not worth it.

With that being said, if you would still love to visit Oslo and don’t want to wait until December or for the weather to get warmer, then you still have the option to embrace yourself in the history of it all. For example, you can check out two fantastic museums in Bygdøy:

●      Kon-Tiki Museum : This museum is about the adventures of the famous explorer Thor Heyerdahl. The museum is located in a beautiful setting, and has plenty to see and do!

●      Fram Museum : The Fram museum is also located in Bygdøy, and is a great place to visit if you are interested in the history of polar exploration. This museum has a lot to offer, including a huge ice-breaking ship called FRAM, as well as an impressive amount of artifacts!

You can also take a walk to the beautiful Oslo City Hall, where you can see architecture at its finest and take in the views of the city. Read all about Oslo City Hall in my previous blog, “ Visit the Oslo City Hall – A public living room .” Or, enjoy a Sauna by the fjord, which is a great way to relax and bond with your friends or family, and they’re open all year round! Check out my blog post Enjoy Sauna by the Oslo Fjord , to learn more about this remarkable experience.

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Oslo, I would recommend either Summertime or Wintertime. Both have their own unique charm, there is plenty to do, and the seasonal weather is perfect for enjoying all that the city offers.

Thanks for reading! I hope this ultimate seasonal guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Oslo. Happy and safe travels!

Traveling to Oslo soon? Check out my YouTube videos for visuals, and tips, and join me on my many adventures!

Your friend in Norway,

Pål of Norway With Pål

Pål of Norway With Pål

Norway native, veteran travel guide, sailor, filmmaker, and writer (you might have seen me in one of Rick Steves’ guidebooks!). I want to help you enjoy Norway the right way — like a local. Learn more about me.

DISCLAIMER: Products on this page may contain affiliate links, and I might make a small sum per purchase. For you this does not affect the product price, but supports me and my work, and makes me able to continue sharing my passion for Norway with you. Read the Disclaimer policy . Thank you, tusen takk!

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where to visit in norway in april

Maybe we should come and stay for a year!!! but go away in November. LOL Actually your November sounds like our November – just not a fun month. I have to say this is a great article. Kudos to you. Ha en fantastisk Sommer!

where to visit in norway in april

haha that sounds like a great plan! I’m glad you enjoyed the article, tusen takk! Hope you’ll have en fantastisk sommer as well

where to visit in norway in april

I’ve been reading July is always overcast and very very rainy . Is they true ?

Usually in July there are both rainy and sunny days.

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9 things to know before going to Norway in 2024

Mar 18, 2024 • 6 min read

Rear view of a man with backpack walking in Oslo historical old town, Norway

These insider tips will help you plan the Norway trip of a lifetime © Alexander Spatari / Getty Images © © Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Norway is a wonderful country to experience as a first-time visitor – an efficient and extensive transport network, incredible attractions, breathtaking scenery and relaxed locals all add up to the trip of a lifetime.

But there are still some things that are good to know in advance. For example, Norway is one of the most expensive countries on the planet, so money-saving tips will make all the difference to your travel budget.

Another major influence on your trip will be  the flow of the seasons ; the differences can be extreme and will have a major impact on what you plan to do while you're there, both in terms of climate and strange Arctic phenomena such as the midnight sun and the northern lights .

Here are nine things you need to know to ensure a wonderful trip to Norway.

Couple sailing in a canoe in a crystal blue glacier lake surrounded by snowcapped mountains

1. Outdoor activities are seasonal so plan carefully

Seasons are everything in Norway. Each long summer day might feel like it lasts forever, but the window for many activities rarely lasts longer than the June-to-August (sometimes just July-to-August) periods. This especially  applies to hiking – Norway’s intensely beautiful Besseggen Ridge Trail, in Jotunheimen National Park , can draw 30,000 hikers in just two months.

Some trails remain open beyond summer, but you run a serious risk of extreme weather rolling in with very little warning while you’re out there. Cycling just about anywhere, and white-water rafting on the Sjøa River, are also strictly summer-only.

Winter sports like skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding have a similarly narrow opening, although dog sledders can sometimes take a summer ride on a sled with wheels. It all means that planning is essential, and local tourist offices are an excellent resource for knowing what’s possible and when.

2. Eat well on a budget

Prices for a meal in Norway can be eye-wateringly high: in a decent restaurant, a main course for Nkr500 is somewhere close to the norm. Thankfully, the best Norwegian cooking is almost always worth it, but keep these sorts of prices for a special occasion, or even just dinner. 

Most Norwegian hotel buffet breakfasts are extraordinarily good, overflowing in generous proportions, and – best of all – usually included in your room rate. Take full advantage and you may well not need to eat again until the evening. If, on the other hand, you’re hungry again by lunchtime, many cafes have cheaper lunch specials and lighter meals, or you could plan for a picnic with food sourced from a supermarket and its delicatessen.

Snacking at fish markets, or with one of the hot dogs sold at every Norwegian petrol or gas station, could also fill you up without sending a torpedo through your daily budget. Saving money on other meals will make that dinner bill a little less painful.

3. Buy train and bus tickets online

Norway's transport network is efficient and extensive. If you’re traveling by rail, you’re in for a treat with some of northern Europe’s most scenic rail journeys . But whatever you do, don’t pay full fare: Norwegians rarely do. On almost every route, Norwegian state railways  set aside a limited number of discounted (minipris)  tickets. How much you pay has everything to do with how early you book, so start planning as soon as you have firm dates for your trip, even if it’s months in advance. Of all the bus services on offer across the country, Lavprisekspressen is known for its rock-bottom fares along major routes – book online and book early.

A woman wearing a hat and winter coat walks along a waterfront backed by colorful buildings

4. Join a hotel loyalty scheme

The overwhelming majority of Norwegian hotels belong to a hotel chain, or at least to some more loosely affiliated groupings. Joining one of their loyalty programs is always free, so choose as many as you like. Better still, join one and then find hotels along your route that belong to your program. The best such programs have a simple offer: the more nights you stay – just how many varies from one chain or program to the next – the more free nights you get as a reward for your loyalty.

Another option that is becoming increasingly common, especially in cities, is budget hotels. Before it was just the hostels (vandrerhjem) that promised reasonable prices, but increasingly, slick hotel-hostel hybrids like Citybox  and  Smarthotels  provide respite from the sky-high room rates.

5. Bring a sleeping mask in summer

Let’s face it, Norway’s midnight sun (which can mean 24 hours of daylight for months on end) and polar night (the same, but with endless darkness) can be confusing or frustrating. At first, it can be exciting to walk alongside a beautiful fjord in brilliant 3am sunshine and there is considerable novelty to eating lunch under a night-dark sky. But how do you sleep in summer? Many hotels, particularly in Norway’s north, have heavy-duty, light-blocking curtains, but bring a sleeping mask in summer to ensure you get some shut-eye.

6. Norwegians are tolerant, but always be considerate

Norwegians are pretty relaxed about most things, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more tolerant nation of people. In cities in particular, the guiding principle seems to be to have a good time as long as you’re not hurting anyone. In rural areas, it’s slightly more complicated, but only slightly. There are always exceptions, but Norwegians in small towns and remote areas tend to be more socially conservative. Loud and loutish behavior is rarely welcome in such places, and if you have an all-night party in a small village, you’ll have misread your surroundings and taken Norwegians’ famous tolerance too far.

A camper van drives along a road bridge connecting islands in wet weather conditions

7. Driving will take longer than you expect

Many of Norway’s roads are engineering marvels, taking you places no road should go. Norway has the longest tunnels in the world and curvaceous bridges that render water obsolete as an obstacle, and car ferries take care of the rest. So rare are potholes, that people take photos of them. Just don’t expect to go very fast.

Part of that has to do with the terrain. It’s also because, apart from a short distance on either side of major cities, freeways are as rare as potholes. Throughout much of the country, especially in summer, you’ll share the road with trucks and campers with only semi-regular overtaking lanes to ease the frustration. Count on slowing down, enjoying the view, and averaging no more than 60km/h (37mph) on most journeys, longer if you stop along the way.

8. Take basic safety precautions

Norway is an extremely safe place in which to travel, possibly even one of the safest in Europe. Like any large modern city, pickpockets are always a possibility in popular tourist areas, especially Oslo and around the Torget area of Bergen . Here and elsewhere, keep your valuables hidden, and never leave them visible in an unattended car. As long as you’re sensible in ways such as these, you and your personal belongings may well be safer in Norway than they are back home.

9. Watch the weather

Watching the nightly weather bulletin with rapt attention isn’t some quirky little pastime in Norway: it could just save your life. Even in summer, wild weather can roll in without warning, which is fine if you’re curled up next to a roaring fire, less so if you’re hiking in Hardangervidda or Jotunheimen, or snowmobiling in Svalbard .

Whenever you’re heading out into any Norwegian wilderness, wise precautions include always carrying warm wet-weather gear, as well as emergency water and food. And always let someone (either your hotel or the local tourist office) know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

This article was first published Jul 25, 2023 and updated Mar 18, 2024.

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The Norway Guide

The Best Time to Visit Norway Explained (Pros and Cons of Each Season)

The climate in Norway changes a lot between each season, and a visit in the middle of summer will be a very different experience compared to a visit during the winter. So when exactly is the best time to visit Norway?

The best time to visit Norway depends on what you want to do. If you want to experience the hiking trails, natural wonders, tourist attractions and warm weather, summer or early autumn is best. If you instead want to experience the amazing skiing opportunities, the northern lights or the cold snow, winter is the best time.

Some people also prefer the shoulder season in spring or autumn due to cheaper prices on accommodations and less crowds at the tourist attractions.

So before you plan when to visit Norway, you should ask yourself what exactly you want to experience when you are visiting. Let’s take a closer look at what each season in Norway is like to make your choice a bit more well-informed.

The trail up to Briksdalsbreen glacier. Photo by Sundgot / CC BY-SA 4.0.

Spring in Norway: Sunny, but chilly days with snow in the mountains

We regard March, April and May as the official spring months in Norway , and this is actually a very nice time to visit.

Some of the benefits of visiting during the spring is that you will be able to experience all the good thing about the winter by going up to the mountains, while the lowlands will be more temperate, and you can safely be outside without freezing too much.

The weather in spring can be very changing , from sunny and 15 C one day to close to freezing degrees and lots of rain the next. The early spring can also have some snowfall, but this will usually lead to lots of melted snow, and not a real layer of snow that covers the ground.

The farther north you are, the more like winter the spring will feel like. Places like Tromsø or Lofoten is still very wintery in March and April, and will have plenty of snow cover.

Ryten in Lofoten in spring

If you want to go skiing or take a hike in the snow, go to the mountains to designated skiing villages like Geilo or Valdres. There are plenty of places with snow during early spring, and there are many different skiing villages where you can go skiing until pretty much the start of summer.

You will need to bring warm clothing if you visit Norway during the spring , but if you’re lucky you might not need to use your jacket at the middle of the day. Be aware that it tends to rain a lot during spring, so always bring waterproof shoes and a waterproof jacket with you.

The end of spring will also include May 17th, the national day in Norway . This is a very cool and unique experience where you get to see a completely unique part of Norwegian culture. This 1-day event is a huge celebration that you are guaranteed to remember for the rest of your life !

May 17 celebration

Some of the downsides to visiting Norway during the spring is that there is still a lot of snow in the mountains, and most hikes are pretty wet to say the least. You might not be able to use all the hiking trials just yet, but many of them will be ready, especially later in the spring.

You will generally not be able to complete hikes like Pulpit Rock, Trolltunga or Kjeragbolten without special hiking equipment in the early spring, since there will be many areas with partial snow or ice cover.

Snow covered Pulpit Rock.

Summer in Norway: Norway’s High Season

I love the Norwegian summer, and I would advise everyone to come to Norway during the summer. The temperature is usually pretty warm in the early 20s (70 F), so it’s not too warm, but also not too cold.

The summer in Norway allows you to do most of the common tourist stuff, and it is the most popular season for both Norwegian and foreign tourists . All the hiking trials are open, and many things like museums and zoos are only open during the summer. This allows you to do most of the things Norway has to offer.

It is also possible to swim at the beaches during summer , and the water can reach pretty nice temperatures. There are many good beaches in Norway, and it’s definitely not too cold for a day at the beach when the sun is out.

Cabin by the sea

The summer allows for camping in the wilderness, long days with a sun that never sets, swimming in the fjords, or going on hikes to natural wonders.

All the incredible Norwegian waterfalls like Vøringsfossen or Kjosfossen are at their best behavior with the most water flowing, so they are all worth stopping by.

Kjosfossen.

If you want to experience the snow, skiing or things like that, then the summer is obviously not your best choice. There might be a few areas with snow if you go hiking up high in the mountains, but most of Norway is completely free of snow during the summer.

Summer hike in Jotunheimen

Autumn i Norway: A bit chilly, but absolutely beautiful

The autumn start at the beginning of September, and this marks a pretty big change in the Norwegian weather. The warm summer evenings will quickly be changed into cold gusts of wind that makes the air very refreshing and nice .

You will have to bring a jacket with you for most of the autumn, but there are occasionally hot days as well where you can enjoy the autumn sun. If you don’t mind the chilly air, a visit to Norway in the autumn can make for some incredible experiences!

Lofoten in autumn

I would say that early autumn is a good time to visit Norway . Most Norwegians are back at work, school has started for the children, but the weather is still pretty nice, and you can still experience most of what Norway has to offer, but with many fewer tourists, so it won’t feel as crowded.

Some of the downsides to visiting at autumn is that there is a lot of rain , and you might get very unlucky and get 4 -5 days in a row with heavy rainfall.

Norwegians typically know how to dress for these autumn days, so take a look at what they wear, and try to copy it. You will want to always bring some extra clothes , because the weather can get from nice and sunny to cold and rainy very fast!

Rain in Norway

It is usually not very snowy in most parts of Norway during the autumn, and there might not be much real snowfall until late November . Last year’s snow has long since melted, and it’s bare in most of the country. So autumn is terrible choice if you want to go skiing.

Sandvika in autumn

Winter in Norway: The Incredible Winter Wonderland

The winter in Norway is unique, and a very different experience for people that are used to living further south . Many people think of Norway as a frozen wasteland, and this might be somewhat true during the winter, especially in northern Norway.

If you visit Norway between December and February, expect a lot of snow, cold weather and icy roads . The days will be very short, and there are only a few hours of daylight at the middle of winter.

It’s generally pretty difficult to drive in the winter with the icy roads, so make sure to bring your winter tires , and be prepared for convoy driving and even closed roads.

Snowy road close to Gol

In the far north, there it no sun at all during the winter months. This phenomenon is known as polar nights , and the middle of the days are still covered by darkness. It’s not exactly pitch black in the middle of the day, but it’s more akin to dark twilight.

Tromsø is beautiful in winter. This photo of Norway in December also shows typical public Christmas decorations found in all major cities.

Visiting Norway during the winter can be a great experience, but tourists tend to bring less clothes than they need. You will need to wear wool under your clothes on cold days if you want to spend time outside .

The temperature can vary very much. Some days the temperatue might linger around 0 degrees, but certain days might be super cold even in places like Oslo . Be prepared for temperatures as low as -20, even though they are pretty rare in the lowlands in the southern part of Norway.

Røros in winter with Christmas decorations. Photo by Henrik Dvergsdal / CC BY-SA 3.0.

Towns in the mountains, such as skiing villages, will usually see many days with -15 to -25 degrees, so make sure to bring enough clothes if you are going to visit these places during winter.

If you enjoy skiing, then the winter is obviously a good time. Most parts of Norway will be covered in snow during the winter , but there might be certain times when a hot weather streak melts the ice.

Skier

January is generally the best month to visit if you want to experience a lot of snow. And the further north you go, the colder and more snowier does the winter get.

The downside to visiting during the winter is that the lack of sun can make it a bit boring, since you only have a few hours to actually see stuff . This makes it difficult to see some of the natural wonders of Norway, and it can feel pretty boring to travel from place to place since it will usually be dark outside.

Tromsø

Norwegian people also tend to be a little less open to tourists during the winter . People often spend most of their time inside, and don’t really care to stop for a chat outside when it’s cold. So you might feel that people are less open than they are otherwise.

Winter events in Norway

The Christmas Celebration is a big thing in Norway, and takes up pretty much all of December . The first 3 weeks are often super busy for Norwegians, and you will see huge crowds of people shopping, so all the city centers and shopping malls are bustling with life.

There will be lots of Christmas events in all of December, which can be a unique experience that is worth checking out. Christmas decorations will fill up most public places.

The actual celebration begins around December 21 – 23, with the main celebration being on Christmas Eve on December 24.

Children walking around the Christmas tree in Røros.

Not only will the Christmas Celebration affect your daily activities as a tourist, but you should also be aware that most shops are closed during the public holidays during Christmas . The same goes for museums and many tourist attractions, so the last two weeks in December will severely impact your visit.

At the same time, it’s something magical about visiting Norway during Christmas , so it’s both a pro and a con.

So when’s the best time to visit Norway?

It is worth keeping in mind that this is only a general summary of each season, and there will obviously be big variations from place to place and from year to year .

I would argue that there is no «best season» for visiting Norway , and each season has both pros and cons. Choose whichever suits you the best, depending on how well you are at dealing with the weather.

Frequently asked questions about the best time to visit Norway

When is the best time to visit norway.

Unstand Lofoten

When the best time to visit Norway is truly depends on what you want to do. That said, most tourists visit during the summer. This is when all tourist attractions are open, the weather is at its best, and places like Lofoten, the big cities, the fjord regions and the hikes are most beautiful and accessible.

When is the best time to visit Norway for seeing the northern lights?

Northern lights in winter

The best time to see the northern lights in Norway is during the winter. Anytime from late October to early April has a chance of having the aurora borealis, but the main northern lights season is in December to February .

You will want to travel pretty far north to a city like Bodø, Alta, Tromsø or the North Cape to have a decent chance of seeing the aurora, even though it’s possible to catch the northern lights in Oslo a few times each winter .

When is the best time to visit Norway for snow?

Snowy road close to Gol

The best time to visit Norway to be guaranteed snow is December to March for northern Norway or in mountain regions , or January to February for anywhere in the lowlands south of Trondheim .

There will usually be snow outside of these time periods as well, but it’s not guaranteed since the days in March can have really warm weather that melts the snow (temporarily) in southern Norway.

When is the best time to visit Norway for seeing the fjords?

Nærøyfjord

If you’re coming to Norway to see the incredible fjords on the western coast, then you want to visit in summer . This is when the fjords are at their best, and there are no less chance of roads being closed due to weather. Many hotels, campsites and attractions near the fjords are only open during the summer season.

The spring and autumn season are also pretty amazing, but they have a high chance of raining. And when it rains it pours in western Norway, so bring waterproof clothing and your umbrella if you’re visiting the fjords in spring or autumn.

When is the best time to visit Norway for a road trip?

Foggy winter driving conditions. Photo by Nicklas Iversen / The Norway Guide.

The best time to visit Norway for a road trip is probably in the late spring, summer or early autumn. This is when the roads are best to drive, and you can freely drive in the country without having to fear roads that are closed due to storms, winter closed roads, convoy driving or icy roads.

Many roads, including famous tourist roads like Trollstigen, are not open at all during winter or early spring before the snow melts .

When are most tourists visiting Norway?

Hovden beach in Vesterålen

Norway’s main tourist season is in the middle of summer in June and July . This is true for both international tourists as well as Norwegian tourists. August is fairly popular as well, but not as popular as June or July is.

When is it cheapest to visit Norway?

The cheapest time to visit Norway is generally in the shoulder seasons in early spring or late autumn .

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Where and when to see the northern lights in 2024

Now is the perfect time to plan a northern lights trip

northern lights appear as dancing ribbons of green in the sky above a snowy mountain top.

  • North America
  • Viewing from home

When to see the northern lights

Northern lights forecasts.

Nothing quite beats seeing the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in all their glory. But where and when can you see them? 

Lucky for us the next few years are going to be the best for seeing the northern lights due to heightened solar activity as we approach "solar maximum" in the current solar cycle.

So if you are planning a trip to see the northern lights now is the time to do it. Not sure where to go? Here we have rounded up some of the best places to see auroras around the world. 

Related: Aurora colors: What causes them and why do they vary?  

The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph), but our planet's magnetic field protects us from energetic assault.

As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike. The southern lights, or aurora australis, are produced in the same way. 

We asked Tom Kerss, astronomy, author and northern lights expert what three pieces of advice he would give to someone wanting to see the northern lights. 

Tom Kerss is an astronomer and the author of numerous best-selling books about the night sky for both adults and children, including Northern Lights , Diamonds Everywhere and the Starry Stories Series .  

What are your top tips for seeing the northern lights?

1. Unless you're lucky enough to have the lights come to you, seeing auroras is a matter of being in the right place at the right time. Fortunately, we can forecast where and when they are likely to become visible, so you can increase your odds. Being in Norway between late September and mid-March, during the darkest, moonless nights, and being mobile will greatly improve your chances. 

2. It's important to persevere! The arctic nights can be extremely cold, but you'll need to push yourself and stay up late to make the most of the auroral zone. On good nights, the Lights are visible as soon as it gets dark, but you should try to stay up until after midnight.

3. Taking your own photographs of the Northern Lights is so alluring, and very rewarding. Today's cameras — including smartphones — capture super, colourful and clear shots. But try not to get too carried away. Make sure you absorb the luminosity, colour and subtle movement of the Lights with your own eyes. You'll make pictures in your mind that you can't share, but you can feel!

What is your favorite aurora fact?

My favorite fact about auroras is that they appear not only on Earth, but on many other worlds. Every planet in the Solar System (except Mercury) exhibits auroras, as do several moons and even a comet! Moreover, we've measured auroras on other stars, and possibly even exoplanets, and they can teach us about the environments and interiors of these remote worlds.  

Where to see the northern lights in Europe

If you live in Europe, the easiest thing to do is head to the far northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Finland. Many local people speak English in those regions and there are lots of tours available.

Wherever you plan on going, bear in mind that cloudy skies may make it difficult to catch auroras on any one particular night. If possible, leave yourself extra time to accommodate inclement weather.

Here is a list of some possible European northern lights trips and tour providers:

northern lights in Norway appearing as vivid green bands of light across the sky. With mountains and water below.

Hurtigruten Coastal Express

Bergen — Kirkenes — Bergen 

Price: From £2942pp, includes breakfast, lunch and dinner + exclusive excursion to the Tromsø planetarium.

Duration: 12 days 

Northern Lights Promise :  If there is no recorded sighting of the northern lights while sailing, Hurtigruten will give guests a free 6- or 7-day Classic Voyage to redeem the following season. Terms and Conditions apply.

If you're interested in booking the Astronomy Voyage head over to Hurtigruten's official site .

If you're looking for the ultimate skywatching and cultural experience in Norway, we recommend taking the Hurtigruten Coastal Express along the stunning Norwegian Coast. 

There are a number of voyages available as well as specialized " Astronomy Voyages " that include additional astronomy lectures from an onboard astronomer and a visit to Tromsø's impressive planetarium and science center. 

You can read more about what it's like to experience the Hurtigruten Astronomy Voyage in our article . 

The Northern Lights Company

The Northern Lights Company based in stunning Vesterålen, Norway, offers various 4, 5 or 7-night northern lights trips between September and April. 

All tours include transport, accommodation, aurora chasing by night as well as daytime activities so guests not only get to see beautiful Norway but also experience it. 

From eagle safaris and visits to the local Sami Reindeer farm to aurora research at the Andøy Space Centre and photography trips. There is something for everyone with the Northern Lights Company.

Visit Tromsø

Visit Tromsø sells aurora-watching trips around the city of Tromsø in Norway. The largest urban area in Northern Norway and the world's third largest city above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø lies just within the Northern Lights Oval, the region above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole where aurora displays are most likely to occur.

Visit Tromsø sells 'aurora chases,' dynamic night hunts for aurora displays in the aurora season between September and April, and slower-paced 'experiences' such as dog-sled and boat trips and overnight stays at aurora hotspots. Tromsø can be accessed by plane from Norway's capital Oslo; adventure seekers are sometimes rewarded by an aurora display during their incoming flight.

northern lights appear as thin ribbons of green light in a partly cloudy sky. Below are the lights outside cabins at Abisko Turiststation.

Lights over Lapland

Lights over Lapland sells a range of aurora-watching packages that take skywatchers to Sweden's northernmost region, Lapland. Lapland straddles the border between Sweden and Finland, with both sides offering excellent aurora viewing opportunities in winter months and the midnight sun experience in summer. 

Lights over Lapland operates on the Swedish side of the border with most of its tours aiming for Abisko National Park (not far from the Esrange Space Center which runs rocket tests for ESA and is gearing up to perform the first satellite launches from continental Europe).

"Abisko has developed a reputation for being the No. 1 aurora-watching destination on the planet, due to the fact that it is located in a very special microclimate with less precipitation than any other location on Earth that is located within the aurora zone," photographer Chad Blakley, who is a co-founder of Lights over Lapland, told Space.com via email. 

If you want to see what it's like to chase auroras in Swedish Lapland check out our article on what it's like to put Abisko's "cloud-busting weapon" to the test . 

northern lights appear as a large green band swirling over the top of the central mountainous peak reflected in the water below.

Guide to Iceland

Guide to Iceland sells a range of aurora-watching packages on the North Atlantic island, including bus tours, boat tours and hunting trips. Situated just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland provides a decent chance of catching the Northern Lights during winter months. If that doesn't work out, you can instead relax in the island's powerful natural hot springs and outdoor pools.

Viatour northern lights night tour from Reykjavik

Viatour operates evening aurora-watching trips from Iceland's capital Reykjavik. The bus tour takes tourists across the island to its most popular aurora spots. The operator says that those who don't get to see the northern lights during their trip can join again at no additional cost. 

Arctic Adventures

Arctic Adventures offers a large number of tours from day trips to multi-day excursions to experience the very best of Iceland. There is a range of northern lights tours available whether it be traveling by bus, boat, or multi-day hiking tours. Experience the majestic northern lights with Arctic Adventures and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Where to see the northern lights in North America

Yellow tent illuminated under the aurora borealis display in Alaska's Arctic.

If you're interested in trying to photograph the northern lights check out our guides on how to photograph auroras , as well as the best equipment for aurora photography .

There are plenty of options for good aurora viewing in North America. While far-eastern Canada tends to be cloudy, the shore of the Hudson Bay, the northern Canadian towns of Yellowknife or Whitehorse, or the west coast of Alaska are usually good bets. (The city of Fairbanks itself can be a great choice for seeing northern lights without needing to go too far in the wilderness.)

Alaska Tours

Alaska Tours offers a range of packages from one-day trips to week-long tours that take visitors past the Arctic Circle to the heart of Alaska's wilderness, where the chance of catching the glowing auroras is among the best in the world. 

Aurora Borealis Yukon  

Aurora Borealis Yokon runs one-day to five-day aurora-watching trips in the Yukon territory in northwestern Canada. A direct neighbor of Alaska, Yukon offers pretty much the same aurora-observing conditions during the winter months.

Churchill Arctic Adventures

In the east, Churchill Arctic Adventures offers trips to Churchill, Manitoba, on the western shores of Hudson Bay. The company operates dedicated 'aurora domes,' heated cabins and other outposts in the boreal forest that allow visitors to observe the magnificent lights in perfect comfort. If the aurora doesn't show up, then perhaps some of the polar bears residing in this region may. 

Can I see the northern lights from my home?

If you capture an amazing photo of the northern lights and would like to share it with Space.com and our news partners for a story or gallery, send images to [email protected].  

The "standard" aurora borealis, observable in the Arctic regions, is generated by the solar wind , which constantly flows toward Earth. It manifests itself into a large "ring" above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is known as the aurora oval. 

During times of heightened solar activity, the aurora oval can expand more southern latitudes. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center maintains a detailed 30-minute aurora forecast where you can see the predicted extent of the auroral oval and the probability of auroras. The aurora borealis is visible most nights, weather permitting, within a band several hundred miles wide that's centered at about 66 degrees north — about the same latitude as the Arctic Circle.

But geomagnetic storms, caused by coronal mass ejections (CME), can ramp up the northern lights considerably and make them visible over much wider areas. In early November 2023, for example, a powerful geomagnetic storm sparked auroras as far south as Greece and Turkey .

Related: Aurora myths, legends and misconceptions

As the solar cycle intensifies, such occurrences might become more common (or rather, slightly less rare). We recommend keeping an eye on Spaceweather.com for alerts of possible incoming geomagnetic storms as well as NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center . 

Yet even the most powerful geomagnetic storm will fail to deliver the experience unless other factors cooperate — a cloud-free sky, not too much moonlight, nighttime hours and absence of light pollution. (City-dwellers have to get out into the countryside for an aurora experience no matter how strong the geomagnetic storm supercharging the sky might be.)

But you can have an aurora experience without even leaving your house if you so choose. Our northern lights webcams article offers aurora views from some iconic locations from across Europe and North America, all in one place. 

If you're planning an aurora-viewing trip, the best time is throughout the winter months. Anytime between late September to late March is a good time for northern lights hunting as the long nights provide ample aurora viewing opportunities.

The good news is that the sun's approximately 11-year solar cycle of solar activity is ramping up as we approach solar maximum. This means that the next few years will be the perfect time to plan a northern lights adventure.

The northern lights can appear for long periods or short bursts lasting only a few minutes (if that!) so the best way to see them is to wrap up warm, and wait. I have been on several northern lights hunts and sometimes they can appear when you least expect, so unless you're already outside and ready, you'll miss them completely. For me, the wait is all part of the experience, especially when you're out aurora hunting with other like-minded individuals. It provides the perfect opportunity to share aurora stories, do a spot of stargazing and simply enjoy the shared experience of the night sky . 

graphic showing what you need to see the northern lights the five items listed are clear skies, warm clothes, patience, suitable location, and a little bit of luck. On the right of the text are some graphics of warm clothes, a starry sky, four leaf clover and a north compass sign.

You can get an idea of how active the northern lights are likely to be in your area by keeping tabs on a short-term aurora forecast, such as the one provided by the Geophysical Institute . One predicting the next half hour is available on NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Website . Also, a citizen science website called Aurorasaurus gives on-the-ground instant information from aurora enthusiasts wanting to alert the community to new sky shows.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

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Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

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Industrial production down by 0.1% in the euro area and up by 0.5% in the eu.

In April 2024, compared with March 2024, seasonally adjusted industrial production decreased by 0.1% in the euro area and increased by 0.5% in the EU , according to first estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union . In March 2024, industrial production grew by 0.5% in the euro area and remained stable in the EU .

In April 2024, compared with April 2023, industrial production decreased by 3.0% the euro area and by 2.0% in the EU .

Monthly comparison by main industrial grouping and by Member State

In the euro area in April 2024, compared with March 2024, industrial production

decreased by 0.4% for intermediate goods,

increased by 0.4% for energy,

increased by 0.7% for capital goods,

increased by 0.3% for durable consumer goods,

increased by 3.4% for non-durable consumer goods.

In the EU, industrial production

decreased by 0.2% for intermediate goods,

increased by 0.3% for energy,

increased by 0.5% for capital goods,

increased by 1.0% for durable consumer goods,

increased by 3.9% for non-durable consumer goods.

The highest monthly increases were recorded in Denmark (+10.4%), Greece (+7.0%) and Poland (+6.7%). The largest decreases were observed in Luxembourg (-6.7%), Latvia (-4.9%) and Ireland (-3.4%).

Annual comparison by main industrial grouping and by Member State

In the euro area in April 2024, compared with April 2023, industrial production

decreased by 2.0% for intermediate goods,

decreased by 1.1% for energy,

decreased by 5.3% for capital goods,

decreased by 3.1% for durable consumer goods,

increased by 0.7% for non-durable consumer goods.

decreased by 1.8% for intermediate goods,

decreased by 0.9% for energy,

decreased by 4.9% for capital goods,

decreased by 2.1% for durable consumer goods,

increased by 2.9% for non-durable consumer goods.

The largest annual decreases were recorded in Ireland (-15.7%), Latvia (-7.8%) and Finland (-6.8%). The highest increases were observed in Denmark (+17.4%), Greece (+10.8%) and Slovenia (+7.4%).

Notes for users

Revisions and timetable.

Compared with data issued in the News Release of 15 May 2024, the monthly percentage change for March 2024 has been revised from +0.6% to +0.5% in the euro area and from +0.2% to 0.0% in the EU. The annual percentage change has been revised from -1.0% to -1.2% in the euro area and from -1.0% to -1.1% in the EU.

Methods and definitions

The index of industrial production measures the evolution of the volume of production for industry excluding construction, based on data adjusted for calendar and seasonal effects.

Seasonally adjusted euro area and EU series are calculated by aggregating the seasonally adjusted national data.

Total industry covers NACE rev.2 sections B to D. Missing observations from Member States for recent months are estimated for the calculation of the euro area and the EU aggregates.

Starting with reference period January 2024, the base year of the data has been changed to 2021, since 2018 the base year had been 2015. More information on the reasons for and impact of the base year change can be found in the related Statistics Explained article .

Geographical information

The euro area (EA20) includes Belgium, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia and Finland.

The European Union (EU27) includes Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden.

For more information

Database section on short-term business statistics

Statistics Explained article on the industrial production index

The weights of the Member States in the EU and euro area aggregates (see file Base year 2021 weights - Euro indicators releases)

Euro indicators dashboard

Release calendar for Euro indicators

European Statistics Code of Practice

Get in touch

Media requests

Eurostat Media Support

Phone: (+352) 4301 33 408

E-mail: [email protected]

Further information on data

E-mail: [email protected]

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COMMENTS

  1. Amazing April in Norway

    April is a great time to get away and experience Norway. Spend Easter here and enjoy fun spring skiing! Or take a city break and visit some of the best new art museums in Europe.

  2. Norway's Fjords in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    Given the enormous latitudinal range of Norway's nearly 1,200 fjords, visitors in April can expect a range of weather patterns, though temperature are likely more pleasant than March. In early spring the southern coastal areas of Norway's fjords usually have the highest temperatures. Flåm, a village along the Sognefjord, for instance, sees ...

  3. Norway in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    April is a great month for checking out Norway's urban museums, parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions. In fact, many visitors prefer to visit cafés and art exhibitions when the locals flee to the mountains for one more week of winter and spring skiing.

  4. Norway in April : Tours & Travel Ideas 2024/2025 : Nordic Visitor

    In Norway in April, the average temperature is 8°C (46°F). But as the country spans such a large distance, temperatures in Norway vary depending on location. In Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger, the average temperature is 6°C (43°F) in April. In Longyearbyen, the main town of Svalbard, it is -9°C (16°F).

  5. The Best Time to Visit Norway [Monthly Breakdown from a Local]

    Daylight: 8 to 13 hours in Oslo, 10 to 14 hours in Tromso. March and April are some of the best months to visit Norway for travellers who want to make the most of both the winter and spring seasons. The winter snow slowly starts to melt by mid to late March and most bodies of water are filled with fresh water.

  6. Norway in April Weather, Tips & Thigns to Do

    Here is deeper dive into weather conditions of the major cities in Norway during April. Oslo: Norway's capital, Oslo, greets April with average temperatures ranging from a brisk 0°C (32°F) at night to a more agreeable 9°C (48°F) by day. It's like nature's way of slowly turning up the thermostat. Bergen: Moving west to Bergen, expect more ...

  7. 10 reasons to go to Norway in spring

    10. Spring skiing. Vårskiturer (spring skiing), is very popular in Norway. In certain mountain areas and up north, there is usually plenty of pristine, powdery snow as late as April and May. The days are warmer (you might be able to ski in a woollen t-shirt), and are growing longer and longer.

  8. Norway in April

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of Norway in April as this travel guide reveals the nation's allure throughout springtime. Enjoy the rebirth of nature and the cultural joys that Norway has to offer you during this lovely season, from discovering blossoming fjords and vivid landscapes to taking part in Easter celebrations and wildlife encounters.

  9. Complete Guide to Norway in Spring: Weather and What to Do

    As for temperatures in spring in Norway, we can tell you that average temperatures at the start of spring are between -4 to 4ºC (25 to 39ºF), increasing to an average of between 6 and 16ºC (43 to 61ºF) at the end of spring in around May. The further south in Norway you are, the warmer spring will be and the earlier it'll arrive (and vice ...

  10. Norway in April : A Handy Manual For Enjoying Your Vacation!

    Norway in April: An Ultimate Guide 2024! Norway's first month of spring brings warming temperatures, softening snow, and growing blooms. This is an incredible opportunity to get outside and hit the open street as the whole nation happens to out hibernation for Easter the travel industry—yet it's even more reasonable and less swarmed than ...

  11. The best places to visit in Norway in 2024

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  12. When To Visit Norway: A Month by Month Guide

    October: Autumn colours by day and good chance of northern lights by night, as long as the weather is on your side. Expect rain. Very few international tourists. A good time to visit the cities. November: Winter arrives but there's usually very little snow outside the mountains.

  13. Norway Weather in April 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

    The Best Places to Visit in Norway in April. Touring in April features long and cool days lasting 14½ to 16 or more hours on average, depending on latitude, during which you can do a variety of activities. In the south, you can tour the cities, hike, or go to ski resorts. The northern arctic towns have more exotic activities.

  14. Spring in Norway

    The hurray season! Thanks to the many public holidays in May - Norway's national day on the 17th of May being the most fun - Norwegians get to really appreciate the season. All in all, spring is a fickle mistress. Although you might wake up to a sudden final day of snow well into April, you're also sure to get days warm enough for utepils - a cold beer that's enjoyed outdoors on a ...

  15. Best time to visit Norway in 2024

    March to May and September to November are the best times for quiet roads. With so much going on in summer and winter, Norway falls relatively quiet during the spring and fall months. And therein lies the appeal of visiting at this time. Beyond city limits, Norway's roads are quieter by a near-exponential magnitude.

  16. Things to do in Bergen in April

    April is a good time to visit Bergen. The weather is usually cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 35—44°F (2—7°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Bergen during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Edvard Grieg Museum at Troldhaugen, take a guided walking tour of ...

  17. Norway in April: The Start of Spring Season

    Warm weather coupled with the blooming nature makes April one of the best times to enjoy a vacation in Norway. Below are some of the reasons why visiting Norway in April is a great idea:. Festivals: Visiting Norway in April is a perfect idea for music lovers as the famous Voss Jazz festival and Inferno Metal festival are held during this month. . Depending on what date Easter falls on, you ...

  18. My Top 30 Norway Itineraries

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  19. The Best Time to Visit Oslo

    Spring (April - Mid-June) As the snow begins to melt and the days get longer, Oslo comes alive. The city is filled with blooming flowers, and the trees are starting to turn a lovely shade of green. Spring is the perfect time to visit if you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

  20. 9 things to know before visiting Norway in 2024

    2. Eat well on a budget. Prices for a meal in Norway can be eye-wateringly high: in a decent restaurant, a main course for Nkr500 is somewhere close to the norm. Thankfully, the best Norwegian cooking is almost always worth it, but keep these sorts of prices for a special occasion, or even just dinner.

  21. The Best Time To Visit Norway Explained (Pros And Cons Of Each Season

    Spring in Norway: Sunny, but chilly days with snow in the mountains. We regard March, April and May as the official spring months in Norway, and this is actually a very nice time to visit.. Some of the benefits of visiting during the spring is that you will be able to experience all the good thing about the winter by going up to the mountains, while the lowlands will be more temperate, and you ...

  22. Travelling to Norway in April, where should I go? : r/Norway

    People outside of cities are way more likely to give you a lift. Trondheim is a very nice city to visit in april, though. With a lot of hiking options around it. Lots of students up there, so its a lively city, and a lot of history. But if you want to experience nature, a good option is to rent a cabin from Turist Foreningen (tourist foundation ...

  23. Trip to Norway in April : r/Norway

    A road-trip up north is fully possible in April, but it is so much better in the summer, only drawback is the traffic. Drive from Molde to Bergen is at least 9 hours in one go with next to no stops if you take the westcoastroad E39. Trollwall and trollladder is a must in Rauma.

  24. Where and when to see the northern lights in 2024

    Being in Norway between late September and mid-March, during the darkest, moonless nights, and being mobile will greatly improve your chances. 2. It's important to persevere!

  25. Industrial production down by 0.1% in the euro area and up by 0.5% in

    Overview In April 2024, compared with March 2024, seasonally adjusted industrial production decreased by 0.1% in the euro area and increased by 0.5% in the EU, according to first estimates from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In March 2024, industrial production grew by 0.5% in the euro area and remained stable in the EU. In April 2024, compared with April 2023 ...