Norway stretches from temperate southern coasts to Arctic tundra in the far north, offering a variety of climate zones. Coastal areas, especially in the west, enjoy a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and cool summers due to the Gulf Stream. Inland and northern regions experience a more continental or subarctic climate with colder winters and greater seasonal contrasts. The country is known for its long daylight hours in summer (midnight sun in the north) and short, often snowy days in winter.
Temperatures
- Spring (March to May): Temperatures gradually rise. In Oslo and southern regions, highs range from 4°C to 15°C (39°F to 59°F), while in northern areas, highs range from -2°C to 7°C (28°F to 45°F). Snow may linger into April in many regions.
- Summer (June to August): Southern Norway averages highs of 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). In the north, temperatures are cooler (12°C to 18°C / 54°F to 64°F), but long daylight hours and occasional warm spells make this the best time for outdoor exploration.
- Autumn (September to November): Temperatures drop from 15°C to 5°C (59°F to 41°F) in the south and from 10°C to -2°C (50°F to 28°F) in the north. This season offers vivid foliage and early snowfall in higher altitudes and the north.
- Winter (December to February): Inland and northern Norway see cold conditions, with highs often between -6°C and 0°C (21°F to 32°F), and lows dropping to -15°C (5°F) or colder. Coastal areas remain milder with more frequent precipitation and temperatures around -2°C to 3°C (28°F to 37°F).
Rainfall
Norway’s west coast is among the wettest regions in Europe, with annual precipitation exceeding 3,000 mm (118 inches) in places like Bergen. The eastern inland areas and far north receive far less—often between 300 mm and 1,000 mm (12–40 inches) annually. Summer brings moderate rain showers, while winter sees more snowfall, especially inland and in mountainous areas. The driest months are typically February to April.
Snowfall
With part of the country above the Arctic Circle, Norway unsurprisingly experiences a lot of snowfall in Winter and shoulder months. Snow is common in most popular tourism regions including the Fjords, Bergen, Oslo, Alesund, Lofoten Islands and the Arctic, to name a few. If you plan to enjoy some hiking on your Norway holiday, plan for June to September for the best conditions and maximum trail access. On the Lofoten Islands and in the Fjords, some trails are accessible from April or May through to October, but it pays to check your specific itinerary with an expert to ensure you will be able to enjoy your planned experiences in your travel month.
