Like much of Scandinavia, Norway has cold winters and warm summers. The Gulf Stream keeps Norway’s climate warmer than in other places on the same latitude (including Alaska and Greenland). In wintertime the sun doesn’t rise at all in the Norwegian Lapland for weeks or months, in the summer it never sets. Here is an overview of Norway weather and Norway temperatures by season.
The Summer
The summer in Norway means the months of (late) June, July and August. The warmest time is generally from late June to the beginning of August and the highest temperatures rise to 25°C - 30°C in the south. In the northern part of the country summer temperatures can rise up to, or sometimes over, 25°C. It can rain in the central and northern parts and around the fjords, so pack light summer clothes but bring some warm jumpers for evenings and a waterproof jacket.
The summer is also the time of the Midnight Sun. The areas above the Arctic Circle get 24-hour daylight as the sun does not set at all for weeks. In the south June and July mean long days and very short nights.
The Autumn
In September the temperature starts to drop and the days get shorter. The leaves changes colour and become red, yellow and orange, and the summer tourist crowds disappear. This is a good time for hiking in Norway’s national parks. Pack warm and waterproof clothes if visiting Norway in the autumn, especially if going trekking.
The Winter
Winter in Norway means December to February/early March, and this is the time for ski holidays in Norway’s ski resorts. Snow falls early and Norway’s ski season lasts from November to April.
Winter temperatures vary from the relatively mild but often wet winters on the coast to the extreme temperatures of -30 °C or even to -40°C in Finnmark, the Norwegian Lapland, so warm winter gear is essential. Wherever you visit during the winter months, you’ll need a warm overcoat, gloves, hats, scarves and warm winter boots.
Winter nights are long and days are short in the south, but in Lapland the sun does not rise at all during the darkest time of the year (around December and January). The dark winters are brightened up by the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The best place to see the Aurora Borealis in Norway is Lapland, especially in October and again in February and March.
The Spring
Springtime is especially beautiful as days get longer and the winter snow slowly melts. The Norwegian spring starts in March, but ski resorts in the mountains are still open in March and April and this can be a great time to go skiing as there is lots of sunshine on the slopes. In the lowlands temperatures are much warmer, but spring weather can be unpredictable. Sunny, warm days can be followed by cold rain, and nights are often chilled. May can be a warm and sunny month and is one of the best times to visit Norway.
Especially in the early spring, pack some warm clothes and be prepared for temperature drops in the evening, although by May you can usually enjoy the sunshine outside in a t-shirt.
