In short
The best time to visit Norway depends on what you want to see: June to August for the fjords and the midnight sun, October to March for the northern lights. May and September are a good compromise, with fewer crowds and superb scenery.
- Fjords and hikingJune to August, plus May and September
- Midnight sunGenerally May to July, in the far north
- Northern lightsGenerally late September to early April
- Suggested length7 to 10 nights depending on the regions
When is the best time to go to Norway?
Norway stretches over 1,500 kilometres from south to north: the climate of Bergen has little in common with that of Tromsø. So there is not one but several good seasons, depending on your priority.
In summer, from June to August, the days are very long, mountain roads such as the Trollstigen are open and fjord cruises are at their best. It is the simplest period for a first visit. North of the Arctic Circle, the midnight sun lights the nights generally from May to July.
Winter belongs to lovers of polar nights, snowy landscapes and northern lights. The nights are long and dark, which improves the chances of a sighting, though never guarantees it: the weather decides. On the other hand, days are short and some mountain roads are closed, which points to the far north.
Which months to choose: the calendar
Here is our overall reading, between the southern fjords and the far north. Keep in mind that the weather stays changeable, especially on the west coast where rain is frequent in every season.
- JanAurora
- FebAurora
- MarAurora
- AprShoulder
- MayGood
- JunIdeal
- JulIdeal
- AugIdeal
- SepGood
- OctAurora
- NovDark
- DecAurora
| Season | Ideal for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| May – June | Blossoming fjords, start of the midnight sun | Long days already, fewer crowds |
| July – August | Cruises, hiking, North Cape | Peak season: book early |
| September | Soft light, first auroras | Calmer atmosphere |
| October – March | Northern lights, snowy Lofoten | Short days, very warm clothes needed |
Our experts’ tip
Do not mix everything up: the midnight sun and the northern lights cannot be seen at the same time. If you hesitate, pick the landscape you dream of first, then the season that goes with it.
Fjords, far north or capitals: which to choose?
For a first trip, we suggest the classic Oslo – Geirangerfjord – Bergen loop in summer. If the far north attracts you, compare summer under the midnight sun with winter under the auroras: the mood is completely different. Find all our ideas on the Norway page.
Good to know
To see the auroras, plan several nights in the far north: a single clear evening is sometimes enough, but nothing is guaranteed.
Our trips to Norway
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Norway?
July is generally the mildest and most complete for the fjords, but June and September are often quieter. For the auroras, favour winter.
Can you see the northern lights in summer?
No, not in the far north: the nights are too bright. The aurora season generally runs from late September to early April.
How many days do you need for the fjords?
One week already allows a fine loop from Oslo, with the Geirangerfjord and Bergen. Allow 9 to 10 nights to add Stavanger or the Lofoten.
Your trip to Norway, tailor-made
Tell us which season appeals to you: our team replies with a tailor-made proposal within 24 hours.