Discover Norway
Cruise Norway: Beauty in Every Season
Visiting Norway offers a distinct experience in each season, with unique landscapes, activities, and weather. Each season in Norway has its charm, offering a mix of natural beauty and exciting activities tailored to the time of year. Plan based on your interests and preferences!
Discover Norway’s fjords year-round! From spring waterfalls to summer sun, fall colors, and winter wonderlands, every season offers unique adventures and breathtaking views.
What to Expect
Weather: Temperatures range from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F), depending on the region and month. Snow melts in many areas, and flowers start to bloom. Coastal areas warm up earlier, while inland and northern regions still have some snow in March.
Landscape: Rivers and waterfalls are at their most powerful due to snowmelt. Fresh greenery and blooming flowers add color to the scenery.
Activities:
o Sightseeing in fjords with dramatic spring waterfalls.
o City exploration as outdoor cafes reopen.
o Late-season skiing in mountain regions like Hemsedal or Trysil.
o Northern Lights are still visible early in spring in the far north.
Clothing: Layered outfits, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes for wet conditions.
Fall (September - November)
Weather: Temperatures drop from 15°C in September to freezing in November, with crisp air and a mix of sunny and rainy days. Early snowfall may occur in the mountains.
Landscape: Brilliant fall foliage blankets the forests and valleys, while the fjords and mountains take on softer, golden hues.
Activities:
o Scenic drives, like the Atlantic Road or Hardangervidda.
o Mushroom and berry foraging in the woods.
o Shorter hikes to admire the fall colors.
o The Northern Lights begin to reappear in the north as nights grow darker.
Clothing: Warm layers, rainproof gear, and comfortable walking shoes.
Summer (June - August)
Weather: Daytime temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with warmer conditions in the south and along the coast. Long daylight hours, especially in the north, where the Midnight Sun shines for weeks.
Landscape: Lush greenery, wildflowers, and crystal-clear waters. Fjords and mountains are at their most accessible.
Activities:
o Hiking iconic trails like Trolltunga, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), or Romsdalseggen.
o Kayaking or cruising through fjords such as Geirangerfjord or Nærøyfjord.
o Festivals, including music and cultural events.
o Enjoying beaches and swimming in southern Norway.
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable hiking gear, and sunscreen for sunny days.
Winter (December - February)
Weather: Cold temperatures range from -6°C to 2°C (21°F to 35°F) in the south and much colder in the north and inland (-20°C/-4°F or lower). Snow covers most of the country.
Landscape: A winter wonderland with snow-covered fjords, forests, and mountains. Frozen lakes and icy coastlines create a magical atmosphere.
Activities:
o Skiing, snowboarding, and sledding in resorts like Lillehammer or Røros.
o Northern Lights hunting in Tromsø, Lofoten, or Alta.
o Dog sledding, reindeer safaris, and snowshoeing.
o Christmas markets and cozy indoor experiences.
Clothing: Heavy winter gear, insulated boots, thermal layers, and accessories like hats and gloves.
Norway's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a sought-after cruise destination year-round. Several cruise lines offer itineraries tailored to each season, providing unique experiences for travelers. While summer is the peak season for Norwegian cruises, some lines extend their offerings into spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). These shoulder seasons offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Cruise lines such as Hurtigruten operate during these periods, providing scenic coastal journeys.
This diary tells about our journey which started in Oslo, Norway. From there we boarded a train for a six hour ride through the Norwegian countryside to Bergen where we boarded Hurtigruten Vesteralen for a 12-night Classic Voyage to Kirkenes and back to Bergen. We were on a hunt for Northern Lights before they disappeared until the next solar cycle.
We have cruised Norway several times at different times of year. Our voyages took us through the fjords, to the Arctic Circle, and to the Norwegian / Russian border. Let us plan the perfect cruise for you. Call or email us to day to start planning your dream vacation to Norway. Take advantage of Hurtigruten's Sale to save on your cruise vacation.
Spots to Explore
Norway is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit spots to explore:
Hurtigruten – the coastal highway to the north
Take a trip with Hurtigruten – the Norwegian coastal express that has sailed from port to port along one of the world's most beautiful coastlines for more than 125 years.
Scenic Train Ride Oslo to Bergen
The Bergen Railway is a seven-hour trip between Oslo and Bergen that's been voted one of the world's most beautiful train journeys. This popular train ride offers breathtaking scenery as its vintage rail cars weave their way down the mountains.
Geirangerfjord
A UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls like the Seven Sisters, and stunning views.
Bergen
The gateway to the fjords, known for its colorful Bryggen wharf, Mount Fløyen funicular, and a charming fish market. It is one of the embarkation ports for Hurtigruten and other cruise lines that visit Norway.
Flåm
Famous for the scenic Flåm Railway and its location amidst stunning fjords. The Flåm Railway, or Flåmsbana, is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, offering breathtaking views of Norway's rugged landscapes, including dramatic waterfalls. The most famous waterfall on this route is Kjosfossen.
Nordkapp (North Cape)
The northernmost point of mainland Europe, offering dramatic coastal views and midnight sun during summer. The North Cape offers an unparalleled sense of remoteness and natural beauty, combining Arctic wilderness with fascinating cultural and historical significance. It’s a place where the elements of nature and human resilience come together, creating memories that last a lifetime.