Norway

When to go to Norway

Norway is such a long country from North to South that the weather will vary significantly depending on which part of the country you are in. Generally, the summer (June to August) is a wonderful time to visit the whole country (and the only time to take an Arctic cruise around Svalbard), with long days and great access to the mountains. If you are looking for a winter adventure, then generally the best time to visit (for snow-based fun) is December-March.

January

The perfect time to visit for a winter adventure. Much of the country will be covered in a thick blanket of snow, perfect for any snow-based activities. You also have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights in this area.

February

The perfect time to visit for a winter adventure. Much of the country will be covered in a thick blanket of snow, perfect for any snow-based activities. You also have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights in this area.

March

The perfect time to visit for a winter adventure. Much of the country will be covered in a thick blanket of snow, perfect for any snow-based activities. You also have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights in this area.

April

This is a good month to visit the Arctic north for a winter adventure as there is usually still plenty of snow on the ground. However, the return of the sun means that it isn’t a good time to see the Northern Lights.

In the south this is a good time to visit the cities and spring can be beautiful out in the countryside but note that some activities and mountain roads will not be open yet. We will advise you on a suitable route.

May

May is a lovely time to visit but note that some mountain passes may not open until late in the month. We will advise you on a suitable route.

June

A great time to visit for summer activities. There should be plenty of sunshine (although you always need to be prepared for changeable weather) and you can enjoy the fabled midnight sun. Now is the time to head to the Arctic in search of polar bears and whales on our Spitzbergen expedition voyages.

July

A great time to visit for summer activities. There should be plenty of sunshine (although you always need to be prepared for changeable weather) and you can enjoy the fabled midnight sun. Now is the time to head to the Arctic in search of polar bears and whales on our Spitzbergen expedition voyages.

August

A great time to visit for summer activities. There should be plenty of sunshine (although you always need to be prepared for changeable weather) and you can enjoy the fabled midnight sun. It starts to feel more autumnal by the end of August. Now is the time to head to the Arctic in search of polar bears and whales on our Spitzbergen expedition voyages.

September

Autumn has arrived and the landscape will be very beautiful, with rich autumnal colours. It’s a great time of year for hiking.

October

Autumn has arrived and the landscape will be very beautiful, with rich autumnal colours. It’s a great time of year for hiking. The first snow often arrives on the mountain tops in October.

This is not a good time for a winter adventure in the north as there may not yet be enough snow.

November

This is not a great month for travel to the Arctic north. Although the snow usually arrives some time in November, this is not a given and it doesn’t always settle. This may mean that some snow-based adventures (husky sledding and snow shoeing) cannot take place. You do however have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

December

The perfect time to visit for a winter adventure. Much of the country will be covered in a thick blanket of snow, perfect for any snow-based activities. You also have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights.