September marks the end of the high season and the beginning of Autumn in Norway. It’s a great time of year to visit, especially if you’re planning to cruise. With the help of ROL Cruise team member Shelby, we look at what the weather is like, what you should pack and what you should do during this time of year.
“During the months of September, October and November, the days get shorter, the air crisper, the food richer, and the colours more dazzling.” - Visit Norway
What is the weather like in Norway in September?
September in Norway marks the beginning of Autumn. Temperatures drop as the landscape starts to change and orange hues transform the horizon.
How cold it is will depend on which part of Norway you’re visiting. Along the south coast, temperatures range from 7℃ to 15℃ and in the north, temperatures drop as low as 4℃ and rise to 9℃. Though the weather is much cooler at this time of year, snow doesn’t typically fall until October, and you can expect around 12 hours of daylight. You may even be in with a chance of witnessing the Northern Lights from late September.
What to wear in Norway in September?
ROL Cruise team member Shelby recently cruised to Norway with Hurtigruten. She said, “Cruising to Norway in September on MS Trollfjord was a dream come true. The crisp autumn air, stunning fjords and a chance to see the Northern Lights made every moment unforgettable. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and tranquillity.”
We asked Shelby what she recommends packing for a Norway cruise in September:
- Plenty of thin layers
- Comfortable walking boots
- A raincoat in case it rains
- A normal coat if it’s cold
- Comfortable clothes like leggings and jumpers
- Jeans, no smart clothes necessary
- A waterproof phone case for any water-based activities
3 things to do in Norway in September, as chosen by Shelby:
Kayaking in Reine
Kayaking in Reine was an unforgettable experience. As a fairweather kayaker, I was apprehensive when I left the ship to light rain and mist-covered fjords. However, it really added a unique and atmospheric touch to the adventure. The rain only enhanced the dramatic landscape, brought out the vivid colours and created unique reflections.
Dressed in layers, we took a short walk from the ship to the kayaks, where we given all the essential gear; waterproof coats, spray skirts, life jackets and waterproof phone cases. Once ready, we entered the water and began our kayaking adventure.
Reine is often lauded as one of Norway’s prettiest fishing villages, and on this beginner-friendly kayaking tour, we got to experience its beauty first-hand. Taking to Reienfjord’s sheltered waters, we paddled around small islets to spot rows of bright red rorbu. As we navigated the calm, crystal-clear waters, our two knowledgeable guides relayed local stories about the area’s history, culture and nature. We even got the chance to try some seaweed, known to locals as the ‘truffles of the sea.’ The fjords of Lofoten Island are home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, sea eagles and sometimes whales.
Come rain or shine, kayaking in Reine offers stunning views of the dramatic peaks and crystal-clear waters, making it a memorable experience regardless of the weather.
Riding a RIB to the Pulpit Rock from Stavanger
Taking a RIB ride from Stavanger to Pulpit Rock was an exhilarating way to experience one of Norway’s most iconic natural landmarks. If hiking isn’t on your agenda, then I would highly recommend enjoying the views of each fjord from below.
Within five minutes of leaving the ship, we were geared up in waterproof suits, gloves, goggles, and lifejackets on Stavanger’s water edge. Sitting in twos, we embarked on a high-speed journey across the waters of the Lysefjord. Along the way, we saw stunning fjord views, rugged cliffs, salmon farms, and picturesque waterfalls. The approach to Pulpit Rock via RIB offers a unique perspective.
With the high-speed RIB ride only taking us two to three hours, it also gave us a chance to explore the colourful city of Stavanger before hopping back onboard to our next destination.
Embarking on one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys
During my cruise, I was lucky enough to embark on one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys, the Golden Train on the Rauma Railway. The route winds past some true Norwegian icons, including the mighty Trollveggen, Europe’s highest perpendicular mountain wall and Kyllingbrua, the country’s most photographed railway bridge.
Along the way, the train conductor told us tales of Norwegian folklore and ancient trolls, as well as the dramatic story of how the railway rescued the entire 50-tonne Norwegian gold reserve in World War 2.
It’s a great way to take in the breathtaking views of the Romsdalen Valley and the Rauma River. In September, the Autumn sun enhanced the colours of the landscape, making the mountains and valleys appear even more magical and vibrant.
