Norway is a country like no other. And on a cruise to Norway, you’ll wake up surrounded by breathtaking fjords, ornate houses and endless flora and fauna. To experience the unrivalled natural beauty of this wonderful country in perfect conditions, we’ve created a month-by-month guide on the best time to visit to help you plan your Norwegian cruise to perfection.
When is the best time to visit Norway?
Any time of the year is a good time to visit Norway, with its encompassing mountains, glaciers and picturesque fjords. But if you’d like to avoid the bitterly cold temperatures or dream of seeing the northern lights, it’s best to identify which season suits your adventure.
Mid-June to mid-August is Norway’s high season. For that reason, hiking and other outdoor activities are popular at this time. Though there is never a guarantee with the weather in Norway, it is often warm and sunny during these months.
Expect mild temperatures and fewer visitors during the shoulder season, which occurs between May and June and September and October. And in the low season, which runs from October to April, be prepared for the possibility of bitterly cold temperatures and short hours of daylight. This season is, however, the best to see the northern lights.
Read next: Best cruise lines for northern lights cruises
Cruise calendar: Norway
Norway in January
Despite bitterly cold temperatures, January is a popular time for outdoor activities like snowmobiling, dog-sledging and chasing the northern lights. By the end of the month, the sun returns to much of mainland Norway.
Norway in February
Though February is normally Norway’s coldest month, it redeems itself by offering plenty of opportunities to witness the northern lights. During this time, you can relish Norway’s many outdoor activities.
Norway in March
As spring blooms in March, days start to get lighter as Norway wakes from its reluctant winter slumber. The white wonderland gives way to the first blossoms as the beautiful landscapes begin to warm.
Norway in April
Temperatures rise in April, making it possible to indulge in outdoor activities designed for the sun. Birdwatchers will enjoy Runde as an estimated 100,000 breeding pairs of puffins arrive to nest.
Norway in May
Norwegian spring is in full swing by May as landscapes transform with pretty flowers and flowing waterfalls. Pleasant weather and comfortable nights await, as do Norway’s renowned music festivals.
Norway in June
In June, a phenomenon occurs where the sun never sets below the horizon, even at midnight. Thanks to the Midnight Sun, crystal-clear night skies make for opportune stargazing.
Norway in July
With an average of 18 daylight hours per day, July boasts some of the longest summer days. It is the best month to travel if you want to enjoy outdoor activities in sunnier climes.
Norway in August
August is the peak of summer and with that comes a booming scene of music festivals across all genres. If festivals aren’t your thing, hiking through Norway’s magnificent mountains is another fantastic pastime.
Norway in September
September welcomes autumn and brings with it breathtaking views of the landscape as red and orange hues break through the lush greens.
Norway in October
Temperatures begin to drop and daylight hours become shorter as Norway reaches October. Polar Night, the opposite of the Midnight Sun, begins as the sun disappears for around 30 days.
Norway in November
Temperatures turn as November is welcomed. Whale watchers will watch with fascination as whales begin arriving in the cool waters of Tromsø.
Norway in December
A winter wonderland awaits with blankets of snow as December’s winter activities are in full swing.
