norway visit winter

Best Places To Visit In Norway In Winter: Experience The Magic Of Winter In Norway

The best places to visit in Norway in winter may surprise you. From northern Lapland to the southern coastal adventures Norway winter travel is amazing!

Finding the best places to visit in Norway in winter can be a glorious experience. This Scandinavian country has embraced the winter season with gusto. While traveling to Norway during the summer is by far the more popular choice, those who travel during winter in Norway will experience a completely different side of Norwegian travel. Not only are some of the best places to visit in Norway FAR less crowded , but the experiences themselves can warm you up faster than a cup of hot cocoa. Norway winter travel is full of surprises, and nowhere near as difficult as many travelers fear.

Why Should You Visit Norway In Winter?

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There are loads of reasons that many of those who travel to Norway use to avoid visiting Scandinavia in winter. A common misconception is how cold it gets during winter in Norway. When we chased Northern Lights in Yellowknife Canada, we had to be ready for temperatures of – 40C. However, because of the Gulf Stream, average temperatures in Norway (even in the north) rarely drop lower than -10C.

The most popular places in Norway are jam-packed during the summer months. Places such as Flam , Trolltunga, and Bergen are nearly exploding with a combination of local and international tourists exploring this Nordic nation. Because of the popularity of summer travel, it can be difficult to find bookings at many of the best hotels in Norway. This makes travel in this already expensive country, nearly un-affordable for many people.

Norway is also a winter paradise. The mild climate combined with a deep affection for outdoor fun makes for the perfect winter lifestyle. Outdoor sports such as cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice-fishing are very popular. And, of course, there are the extraordinary natural landscapes such as the majestic fjords and dramatic mountains that are made even more beautiful with snow.

How To Experience Norway Winter Travel

Norway winter travel can be done via most of the same means as during the summer. Norwegian road trips are common year-round. Using the amazing Norwegian public transportation system is another popular way to travel Norway in winter. For those that want something a little less ordinary, it is also possible to enjoy a Norway winter cruise. You can also combine a spectacular Norwegian Fjord cruise with dramatic train routes on the Norway in a Nutshell tour . Whatever route you choose, below are our favorite places to visit in Norway in winter.

If you do decide to drive during winter in Norway, it’s a good plan to keep your eye on local road closures. Roads, especially those in the mountains or areas of heavy snow, can often close for the safety of travelers. It’s also very important to check if your rental vehicle has winter tires. Up in the Arctic regions, it’s even good to consider asking for studded tires. Driving in winter isn’t a joke, so if you aren’t comfortable doing it, try the other Norwegian transit options.

Where To Go When In Norway During the Winter

Norway’s capital, Oslo, is a great starting point for any Norway winter itinerary. Oslo is home to loads of winter activities. Sure, you can partake in the classic Norwegian activities such as cross-country skiing or ice-skating, but there is so much more. How about watching some ski-jumping on famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump. Or you can let your inner-child out with some sledding. Oslo is also home to a 2 km toboggan run that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

If getting active isn’t your style, you can always explore the best sites in Oslo with a walking tour through the old-city or some of its new wonders like the spectacular Oslo Opera House. Additionally, there are many amazing family-friendly museums such as the Fram Museum or the fascinating Viking Ship Museum that are sure to inspire your inner explorer.

The UNESCO World Heritage city of Bergen is full of activities for families visiting Norway in winter. Taking a walk along the UNESCO recognized Bryggen Wharf waterfront is a great way to learn more about this colorful city. Bergen is the gateway for the most famous Norwegian fjord cruises such as the Norway in a Nutshell tour and the Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Cruise . The Bergen winter fjord cruise can be done as a roundtrip tour or one-way.

For great views of the city, take a Floibanen Funicular ride to the top of Mount Floyen. There are excellent hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country ski trails. Just watch out for the local trolls!

Bergen is also a perfect place to explore some of Norway’s gastronomic treasures. The city has some of Norway’s best restaurants. There is no better way to warm up during a cold winter in Norway than in some of Bergen’s classic cafes and 5-star dining establishments such as Maaemo that are sure to get your mouth watering.

Pro-Tip: The temperature can drop a few degrees as you head to the top of Mount Floyen so keep this in mind when preparing for the trip up.

The small city of Kirkenes is one of Norway’s northernmost cities. While this small Arctic town may seem like a strange destination to travel to during Norway in winter, Kirkenes has a few surprises in store. Most visitors to Norway end up in Kirkenes because it is the final stop in the northbound Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruise . But, while most people only spend a few hours at Kirkenes while the Hurtigruten is at the port, it’s worth spending a couple of days here to explore the majesty of northern Norway in winter.

Besides Northern Light spotting, Kirkenes is also famous for King Crab safaris, ice fishing, and it’s epic history as one of the most bombed locations during WWII. Kirkenes is also home to a fantastic museum. And for something completely different, it’s only a short drive to the Russian border, a popular tourist stop for those on day tours in Kirkenes.

Tromso is famous for being one of the best places in the world for Northern Lights spotting. Its location north of the Arctic circle means that there is a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights in Tromso when the conditions are right. And the dramatic landscape of Tromso makes it an ideal destination for serious photographers wanting to get the best Northern Lights shots. For those looking for an unconventional way to spot the northern lights in Norway, there are unforgettable combination dog-sledding and Northern Lights tours in Tromso that offer a unique perspective on the dancing skies.

Tromso is also one of the more easily accessible places to learn about the Sami aboriginal culture of Norway. The Sami are the only remaining indigenous people in Europe. Their reindeer herding culture makes them a perfect fit for the Lapland environment. In winter visitors to Tromso can book a reindeer sleigh ride with a Sami guide.

The city of Flam is located amidst some of the most beautiful mountains and fjords in Norway . Even in winter, taking the scenic Flamsbana railway line provides a breathtaking view of the Norwegian mountains. The Flamsbana train ride can be done one way from Flam to Myrdal or as a round trip experience. The Flamsbana railway also stops at the base of the scenic Kjossen waterfall which, in winter, is completely frozen over making for an impressive scene.

Flam is also an outdoor lovers paradise. There are countless hiking and cross-country skiing trails, and of course, the jaw-droppingly beautiful Naeroyfjord UNESCO World Heritage Site. Like in Bergen, fjord cruises in Flam also run year round. The Flam fjord cruise and Norway in a Nutshell tours both offer breathtaking tours of Naeroyfjord and nearby Aurlandsfjord.

The coastal city of Trondheim, which sits within the beautiful Trondheimfjord, is the third largest city in Norway. Trondheim has an incredible mixture of famous attractions and hidden gems just waiting to be explored. The Nidaros Cathedral is a spectacular piece of architecture. It’s worth the 90 NOK to explore the inside rather than just marvel at the intricate exterior. It’s no surprise why Trondheim is one of the most popular Hurtigruten shore excursions .

The brightly colored Gamle Bybroa, or Old Town Bridge, is also a popular spot to visit in Trondheim. Even if you’re visiting Norway in winter, the views of the wharf from the Old Town Bridge are legendary. And while you’re in town head just outside the city center to the picturesque Bymarka for some of the best cross-country skiing and winter hiking in Norway.

Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands have been hailed as having some of the most beautiful scenery in Norway. Not only are the pretty fishing villages a treat to explore, but the towering mountains surrounding the fjords make for a stunning backdrop. Similar to Tromso, Lofoten Islands are located north of the Arctic Circle making it among the best regions in Norway for viewing the Northern Lights.

In Lofoten, they say “if you don’t like the weather, wait ten minutes”. So expect the weather to be all over the map. The beauty of Lofoten has recently caused an explosion of tourism. But, if you’re visiting Norway during winter, you won’t have to worry about that. Except for the crowds on short Hurtigruten shore excursions, tourism to Lofoten in winter hasn’t caught on as much. This means that you shouldn’t have trouble finding accommodation.

But weather aside, Lofoten is undeniably photogenic. It has the perfect mix of natural beauty, quaint towns, and dramatic skies. You might need to head further north to get the most dramatic Northern Lights in Norway, but you will not find a more beautiful place to photograph them.

What you Need to Know Before Visiting Norway in Winter

Norway has a strange hook shape. The country is tall and narrow, except at the top where it swings over the top of Sweden and Finland to the Russian border. The part of Norway that extends north of the Arctic Circle experiences polar night for at least a period of time between December to January. This means that at certain times during the Norway winter, the sun does not rise at all above the horizon. But by February, there is easily 8-hours of daylight.

The weather during Norwegian winters can vary dramatically. Packing good clothes for winter travel in Norway in important. We always say that there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. If you’re prepared, you can be comfortable anywhere.

Tips For Having The Best Winter In Norway

There are a few things that are good to know before experiencing winter in Norway. These little things will help you make your Norway travel experience unforgettable.

• Outdoor is where it’s at. Norwegians love the outdoors. And outdoor activities in Norway are everywhere. Don’t be surprised when you see locals hiking, cross-country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing and even biking almost everywhere you travel in Norway. The Norway winter isn’t something the locals fear, it’s something that they embrace.
• Winter in Norway may not be as cold as you had feared. Most of the temperatures in coastal Norway are actually quite mild. The gulf currents keep the temperatures of Norway in winter very comfortable. This can change as you move inland though. Another reason that living by the water can be so great. You can read our complete Norway packing guide here .
• It’s dark up north. I mean REALLY dark. Like, days to weeks at a time without the sun coming up above the horizon. Does that sound awful? Well, it shouldn’t. This lack of sun makes winter in Norway one of the best options for Northern Lights seekers.
• Christmas is a big deal here. There are Christmas markets in most of the major cities including Bergen, Trondheim, and Oslo. Many locals decorate their houses early in December, but those warm, festive decorations often stay up through February. But like many Norwegian personalities, the decorations are often on the indoors, and you need to be invited in to experience the warmth inside.

Have you ever traveled to Norway in winter? Tell us about it in the comments below. Or visit our Facebook page and share a photo of your Norwegian travels. We would love to share in your journey.

Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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Friday 9th of December 2022

Great article, is there any place for astronomy event?

Friday 28th of December 2018

Norway looks a cool place to visit, thanks for this!

Friday 1st of October 2021

@Kevin Wagar, thanks Kevin, Norway is always my dream destination, has a virgin beauty I wish it remain untouched for ever.

Kevin Wagar

Saturday 29th of December 2018

Norway is wonderful. I hope you get the chance to visit.

Sunday 16th of December 2018

Good story. I also like Norway very much and I often travel there.

Monday 17th of December 2018

Thank you Marat. It's a beautiful country.

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10 Things to Do in Norway in Winter

In Norway there's a saying that people are born with skis on their feet. While perhaps not all Norwegians are Olympic-level skiers, winter activities are an important part of the culture. It’s no wonder with all those snow-capped mountains, deep fjords, and twinkling night skies.

In fact, some of the most unique things to do in Norway in winter aren't related to skiing. From Norway northern lights tours to dog sledding and even staying in a hotel made of snow, there is so much to experience. 

Between October and March, you can come explore the country’s snowy wonderland for yourself. For inspiration, and to help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of what to do in Norway in winter.  

1. Pretend you’re a polar explorer

Norway has an impressive track record of polar expeditions, having produced historic explorers such as Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen . Nansen was the first man to cross the interior of Greenland on (you guessed it) cross-country skis. Amundsen was first to reach the South Pole.

While you may not be feeling quite so ambitious, Norway is an excellent place to tap into that pioneering spirit. Many famous 20th-century expeditions were based in the Norwegian city of  Tromsø , aptly nicknamed “The Gateway to the Arctic”. In this part of Norway you could go:

Dog sledding

Like Amundsen, you could embark on a dog sledding tour. Meet the eager team of huskies that will lead the way and sit back for a fun ride. Some tours even offer the opportunity to drive the dog sled.

Snowmobiling

Or try your hand at driving a snowmobile along the snowy trails. Whether you visit Northern Norway or Svalbard, you could participate in a thrilling guided excursion. See the Arctic landscape from a different perspective.

Snowshoeing

Maybe you simply want to walk on snow? This is an exciting way to feel the snow crunch under your feet and feel the crisp Arctic air. You’ll really enjoy your hot beverage after this fun tour.

You can also explore the Arctic comfortably indoors at attractions like  Polaria  and the  Polar Museum (Polarmuseet).

If you're spending time in  Oslo , you may also wish to visit the  Fram Museum (Frammuseet). It hosts an exhibition dedicated to Amundsen's ship, the Fram, and the hardships of early polar expeditions.

• Check out these Norway tours that include dog sledding and snowmobiling to experience them yourself

2. Check the northern lights off your bucket list

Visit Norway in winter for your best chance to see the aurora borealis. In Northern Norway, which is inside the Arctic Circle, daylight hours are very limited at this time of year. You may even experience polar nights – which is when the sun doesn’t rise at all.

Thanks to the seasonal darkness, you’ll have the dark skies needed to chase the northern lights.

You should head north to the city of Tromsø as it falls right in the middle of the “Northern Lights Belt”. This region represents the optimal latitude for viewing the auroras in the Northern Hemisphere.

Another great place to look for the dancing lights is the  Lofoten Islands , a stunning, mountainous Norwegian archipelago.

3. See the snowy landscapes outside your train window

If you’re planning your trip to Norway in winter, it’s an ideal time to travel by public transport. Sit back and relax as you admire the views of the snow-covered mountains, frosty fjords , and festive forests.

One of the most popular and stunning railway journeys in the country is the Norway in a Nutshell® tour. It has, in fact, been described as one of the best rail routes in the world! And it’s even more stunning under a layer of snow in winter.

This itinerary will take you from Oslo to Bergen (or vice versa) combining travel by train, bus and ferry. Climb mountains aboard the Flåm Railway and sail along Aurlandsfjord and other beautiful fjords. You’ll also ride through charming villages between Gudvangen and Bergen.

Along the way, you’ll experience the stunning views of waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and peaceful fjords. You may even spot some local wildlife.  

If you'd rather take the wheel and stop at the sights you want along the way, come during the summer. At this time of year, the roads are more accessible for driving and you can take advantage of more daylight hours.

• Travel independently around Norway with these fjords cruise and train tours
• Look up these  Norway self-drive tours  for epic summer road trips

4. Sail the Arctic waters on a cruise

Did you know you can cruise the rugged Norwegian coast even in wintertime?   

The Havila and  Hurtigruten coastal voyages  operate year-round, from the city of Bergen in the south-west to Kirkenes at the northern end of the route. It includes many beautiful ports of call in between such as  North Cape (Nordkapp) , the Lofoten Islands and Ålesund.

The great thing about cruises is the hop-on, hop-off style of travel. Thanks to that, you can pick which section of the route you want to sail and see.

Nordic Visitor can tailor tours according to your interests. Combine all your favourite aspects to create your ideal itinerary. That could be a 1- or 2-night cruise with an overland journey such as the scenic Norway in a Nutshell® railway tour. 

• Learn more about visiting Norway in October , November , December , January , February , and March

5. Spend a night in the Kirkenes Snow Hotel

If you’re going to visit the Arctic, you might as well make the most of it, right? Up in  Kirkenes , one of Norway’s northernmost towns, you’ll find the enchanting  Snow Hotel . It is Norway’s answer to Sweden’s famous  Ice Hotel .

This special accommodation is rebuilt every year in December in a different decorative theme. Each room features hand-crafted ice carvings and special lighting effects. A real winter wonderland!

Sure, it’s a brisk -4° Celsius (25°F) inside, but the thermal sleeping bag and extra warm clothing provided by the hotel will keep you snug and cosy.

Thirsty? Visit the hotel’s Ice Bar, where you can sip vodka from glasses made of ice. The hotel’s restaurant is shaped like a lavvu, which is the traditional tent of the region’s native Sami people.

The Snow Hotel also hosts a husky kennel and a reindeer park.

• Look up these snugly  Norway Snow Hotel packages
• Related: Norway honeymoon ideas for summer and winter

6. Explore the west coast

During the summer and winter alike, you should travel to Norway’s rugged west coast. The main attractions are the stunning west fjords , such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord .

Admire them from viewpoints high above or take a cruise to see them from the water. This way you can marvel at the frosty waterfalls and mighty cliffsides.   

Here you’ll also find the beautiful city of Bergen, which is often nicknamed the “ Gateway to the Fjords ”. Norway’s second largest city offers an array of attractions, from the colourful wharf Bryggen to the views of Mount Fløyen .

If you’re cruising along the coast, you could visit the art nouveau city of Ålesund and the historic Trondheim on your way north.

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the west coast is warmer than the rest of the country. This means you can expect milder weather. Prepare for wind and rain, especially if you’re going sailing.

• To see the best of Norway in one incredible trip, browse these best selling tours

7. Discover the markets and attractions of Oslo

Sparkling lights and dusty snow make the capital city a winter wonderland at this time of year.

From November until the end of December, the festive atmosphere is even more prominent with the many Christmas markets. The main market is Christmas in Winterland (Jul i Vinterland). Here you can buy handicrafts, sip hot drinks, and hop on board the large Ferris wheel.

There are typically other fairs around the capital, but also in many other cities and towns around Norway. Don’t miss out on a cup of hot gløgg!

Between November and March, many of the main attractions are still open in Oslo. This means you’ll be able to visit all the top sights you want to see. Among others, you could:

• Learn about Nobel Peace Prize laureates at the Nobel Peace Centre
• Admire the art at the Vigeland Sculpture Park (located in Frogner Park)
• Discover Norway’s monarchy and history at the Royal Palace
• See famous seafaring vessels at the Norwegian Maritime Museum

8. Learn about Sami culture

The Sami people are indigenous inhabitants of Northern Europe, spanning Finland, Sweden, Norway as well as Russia. They uphold traditional lifestyles including fishing, trapping, and herding, especially reindeer.

While visiting Norway in winter, you could take the opportunity to learn more about them and their culture. In Norway specifically, Sami people are located mostly in the northernmost parts.

Near Kirkenes, visit Camp Tamok to experience a Sami camp and some of their activities. You could join a thrilling dog sledding tour, feed reindeer, and even enjoy dinner in a lavvu, which is a traditional Sami tent.

This is also an excellent location for spotting the northern lights. A must experience in Norway in winter!

• Partially guided tours to Northern Norway are ideal to combine solo travel and guided excursions

9. Eat some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste

It goes without saying that you’re going to be ravenous after spending all that time outdoors. Luckily for you seafood lovers, fresh fish is at its best during wintertime in Norway.

A few things you might have on your plate include local cod, halibut, salmon and trout. You won’t miss out on other seafood either with fresh prawns, langoustines, blue mussels, scallops and lobster.

If you really want to treat yourself, the Norway travel experts at Nordic Visitor wholeheartedly recommend dining on king crab. If you're staying in Kirkenes, you could even go out onto the Barents Sea with local fishermen and help catch it yourself. You won’t taste anything fresher.

Bon appétit! Or, as they say in Norway, vær så god.

Good to know:  Our tours aren’t set in stone. If specific activities aren’t included in your trip, you could always add them to your itinerary. From dog sledding to shore excursion for your cruise – just ask your travel consultant.

10. Head to the great white north to visit Svalbard

The winter months are a great time to visit Norway, and specifically adventure yourself to Svalbard . A remote Norwegian archipelago located north of the mainland, here you’ll find a true winter wonderland.

A short getaway to Svalbard will allow you to take part in winter activities while visiting a corner of Europe not many get to experience. You could go snowmobiling along the frozen valleys and fjords and meet friendly huskies for a dog-sledding tour.

The islands’ rugged wilderness provides fantastic photo opportunities too. The unspoilt nature is endless, from the majestic glaciers to the snowy landscape and frozen sea.

During your trip, you may even be able to spot some local wildlife. This includes whales, seals, reindeer, as well as the elusive “King of the Arctic”, the mighty polar bear.

• To visit the kingdom of polar bears, browse tours to remote Svalbard
• Related: 7 Top things to do in Svalbard

Guess what? There are way more than 10 things to experience in Norway at this time of year. With plenty of places to see and fun activities to partake in, your winter trip will be unforgettable.

Who knows, you might even have time to do a little skiing!

Our friendly travel consultants can help you tailor an itinerary to your taste, depending on what you want to do and see in Norway. Simply get in touch to start planning your ideal Norwegian adventure.

When not writing about Northern European tourist attractions, Jessica Bowe is busy daydreaming about her next trip or scouring Instagram for travel inspiration. Originally from Wisconsin (USA), she's lived in Iceland since 2008 and has since become fully immersed in Eurovision mania and Scandinavian coffee culture.

Find Jessica on LinkedIn .

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Home » Itineraries » Norway Itinerary

Norway Itinerary

With soaring stave churches, stirring landscapes, medieval history, and plenty of modern attractions to keep you entertained, its no wonder that the popularity of Norway has grown in recent years. It’s a destination that offers a wide mix of attractions both indoors and outdoors, and everything has a uniquely Norwegian twist. While we tend to seek out beaches more than snow, Norway in winter offers a special appeal we couldn’t turn down—the chance to see the Northern Lights, ice-covered fjords, sled dogs at work, and the glory of Norway’s largest cities.

At more than 1500 miles north to south, Norway is a huge country full of an endless array of gorgeous things to see. It’s impossible to experience everything on a short visit. Our goal was to pack in everything possible into our one week in Norway itinerary without feeling extremely rushed. Here’s a look at how we spent our time.

If you are considering a trip to Norway in winter, check out our packing list on what to take and what to wear. This will keep you warm and comfortable.

One-Week Norway in Winter Itinerary

Day 1: take norway in a nutshell route to flam, day 2: flam to the fjords and bergen, days 3 & 4: visit bergen, days 5 & 6 – see the northern lights in tromso, day 7: visit oslo.

One of the most popular ways to see the southern part of the country is the Norway in a Nutshell tour. This route takes you from Oslo to Mydral followed by one of the most famous train journeys in the world on the historic Flam railway. From Flam, you continue on to an amazing ferry journey through the fjords, ultimately ending in Bergen (more on this second leg in day 2 below).

Because the entire route from Oslo to Bergen is more than 12 hours—and much would be in the dark in the winter—we opted to break it up over two days. We’ve written in much more detail about how to plan your own Norway in a Nutshell trip here .

On the first day, the train left Oslo at 8:25am headed for Myrdal. The journey to Myrdal was pretty but simple countryside until we approached Flam. If you’re tired from the early morning start or jetlag (or both), you can nap for a couple of hours without missing anything special.

As we approached Myrdal, the scenery began to shift. Bright red houses appeared by lakes, the terrain became more mountainous. As we traveled, we spotted snowmobilers and skiers, some even zooming along with kites strapped to their backs to catch the wind.

After a brief stop at Myrdal, we boarded the Flam railway for the next leg of the trip. This is where the landscape became truly impressive.

The Flam Railway, a 12-mile stretch of the Bergen Line, is often called one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. One of the highlights of our Norway itinerary, the route of this old-fashioned steam train winds through 20 tunnels, passed ravines, waterfalls, and tiny villages as you descend nearly 3000 feet to Flam.

The village of Flam is tiny—just 350 residents—so it’s a very quiet place during the winter in Norway (in the summer, it’s flooded with people). Even when tourists descend upon the area when the train arrives, people have a tendency to spread out. Flam has a couple of restaurants and shops, but the surrounding scenery is the attraction. If people stay overnight, there are options for hiking, snowshoeing, and other outdoor winter activities, but we just wanted to enjoy the serenity. And the beer at Aegir BrewPub, of course.

Where to stay in Flam

There are two hotel options in Flam which are both popular and can be pricey. In the summer, they book up well in advance. For our winter trip to Norway, we booked about one month in advance.

• We opted for the Flamsbrygga Hotel , which is attached to the Aegir BrewPub. The hotel looks a bit like a stave church and fits in perfectly surrounded by the fjord ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• The Fretheim Hotel , a refurbished 1800s manor house, is another good option ( Read reviews and book a room ).

The second part of the Norway in a Nutshell trip to Bergen has even more dramatic scenery.

Setting out on the 9:30am ferry from Flam we ventured into Naeroyfjord, one of the longest and deepest fjords in the world. In the winter in Norway the sun is still low on the horizon, so throughout our ferry trip we watched the colors turn from deep greens and blacks to bright blues as the sky lit up.

For two hours, we sliced our way across the frigid water as the landscape changed around us. We passed tiny fishing huts splashed in bright colors and watched waterfalls gush their way down the 5000-foot-tall mountains around us. It was everything we could have hoped for.

Our visit to the fjords ended in Gudvangen where we stopped for a quick snack before transferring to the bus to Voss. The 75-minute bus ride through the countryside took us by even more splendid houses and had waterfalls that seemed nearly to end at the road’s edge. From Voss, we took the train to Bergen, one of the most popular Norway destinations and our base for the next two days of our 7 days in Norway.

Bergen is Norway’s second largest city, but it feels much smaller. One of the best places to visit in Norway, Bergen has a compact Old Town and excellent public transportation to move around quickly, which makes it easy for visitors to see a lot in a short time.

The weather in Bergen can be quite unpredictable, especially in winter, so we were thrilled when the sun cooperated with us almost every moment. We didn’t take it for granted and wanted to make the most of our visit.

Our first day in Bergen started with an easy tram ride a couple of miles outside of the city center to the Fantoft Stave Church. Norway is known for its soaring wooden churches that look like they came straight from a fairy tale, and this one is an excellent example.

After the church, we headed back to the harbor to visit Bryggen, a row of merchant houses and shops that have their roots in the Hanseatic League. Since we’re suckers for bright colors and UNESCO World Heritage sites, this fit the bill in every way. Making our own street art tour of the nearby streets capped off day one.

Our second day was all about the mountains. First, we took the quick 8-minute ride up Mount Floyen on the Bergen funicular. Then we took full advantage of the sunny weather by riding the cable car to the top of Mount Ulriken. Although the activities sound similar, they provide completely different views of Bergen and the surrounding area. Most people with limited time will probably find the funicular to be the most convenient option.

An afternoon of museum hopping and more street art rounded out our day. We’ve written in more detail about our days in beautiful Bergen .

Where to stay in Bergen

• In the heart of Bergen’s city center, Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz is the top-rated hotel in Bergen ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• The stylish, modern Hotel No 13 is within easy walking distance of everything ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• A fashionable luxury hotel, the Bergen Bors Hotel is located in the city’s stately old stock exchange ( Read reviews and book a room ).

The idea of going above the Arctic Circle in winter brought one word to mind—“cold.” And while it was certainly cold, Tromso was so much more than that.

Flying from Bergen to Tromso was easy. We arrived around lunch and spent some time wandering the cute streets. We stopped by Mack, the world’s northernmost brewery, and its adjacent brewpub Olhallen. The brewpub has 67 beers and ciders on tap and was a perfect respite from the winter weather.

In the evening, we turned our attention to the primary reason for our visit to Tromso—to fulfill Lance’s long-standing dream of seeing the Northern Lights.

Seeing the Northern Lights is entirely weather-dependent and can be unpredictable. As we planned our Norway trip, we knew there would be a chance of going all the way to Tromso and not seeing the Lights at all. As a result, we allotted two nights of our 1 week in Norway to chasing the Lights to give ourselves an additional chance of see these purple and green flares dance their way across the sky. (Check out our Northern Lights FAQ for everything you ever wanted to know about the Aurora.)

Our decision to allow two nights in Tromso in our schedule turned out to be the right call. Our visibility the first night was limited, but it gave us an opportunity to practice our photography skills because capturing the Northern Lights takes a little bit of work. We were perfectly prepared for our second night when the Lights unveiled themselves in all their glory. We have written in detail about chasing the Northern Lights, photographing them, and all the details of our experience here . Also read our tips for photographing the Aurora Borealis .

To fill our time in between the Northern Lights excursions (the trips often last from about 7:00pm to 2am), we tried another typical winter activity for northern Norway— dog sledding . Zooming across the frozen plains behind a team of blue-eyed huskies was surreal. Although we were frozen, we loved every minute.

Where to Stay in Tromso

• With views of the bay and the mountains, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Tromso , is an excellent option ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• The Comfort Hotel Xpress has small but expertly designed rooms for good value in a convenient location ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• The Scandic Grand Tromso is a great base for your Arctic adventures ( Read reviews and book a room ).

Our last day in Norway began with a flight from Tromso to Olso. We were tired from our wonderfully busy week and two late nights watching the Northern Lights, but we wanted to get in some sightseeing time in the capital city.

Oslo’s waterfront has been undergoing a massive redevelopment for years (hence the many cranes in our photos), so we decided that would be the focus of our time in the city. The Opera House is the crown jewel of the new construction and is quickly becoming one of the most iconic modern buildings in Scandinavia. Designed to resemble a glacier, the Opera House is meant to be a work of art—you can even walk on top of it.

From there we headed to another of the best places to see in Oslo, the Akershus Fortress. The castle here was completed around 1300 at the time that the capital moved from Bergen to Oslo. We strolled the grounds, visiting different memorials and watching as the winter afternoon light turned the thick fortress walls golden.

After touring the inspiring Nobel Peace Center, we visited Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen, two areas known for their great restaurants, shops, art installations, and harborside views. There’s even an outdoors “bath,” but with snow still on the ground, we passed on that experience. We’ll have to leave that for our next trip to Norway.

Where to Stay in Oslo

• Right by the Opera House and 2 minutes from Oslo’s high street, the Thon Opera Hotel is perfectly located ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• The Clarion Collection Hotel Folketeateret is a great option in the city center near shops and some of the city’s best restaurants ( Read reviews and book a room ).
• With a great restaurant and wine bar and well-appointed rooms, Hotel Christiania Teater is ideal for a visit to Oslo ( Read reviews and book a room ).

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Making the Most of Winter in Norway

• Europe , Norway , Places

As you know, I love warm weather and get plenty of it running my African travel company . But I do enjoy the winter too – by which I mean proper winter. Not that grey, bleak, rainy and cold English winter or the howling Siberian winds cutting through Berlin . I’m talking about winter in Norway. So in that respect, living in Trondheim (and travelling to Africa) is pretty much perfect.

Winter’s arrival should be something to be celebrated, especially in a place as extraordinarily beautiful as Norway. While many may prefer Norway’s extended days and warmer temps, the snow-cloaked months here have always enchanted me most of all. The chance for skiing, sleigh rides, reindeer encounters, glimpsing the aurora, and simply burrowing into hygge perfection is unbeatable.

Having spent many winters exploring Norway’s wonders, I’ve gathered all my insights into this guide for savouring everything this magical season offers. Here you’ll find my tips on weather and attire, transportation insights, top winter destinations and activities both popular and hidden, places to stay, holiday fun, and more so your winter trip to Norway can be smooth, safe, and ultimately unforgettable. With a bit of preparation, Norway in winter becomes a true winter wonderland.

When to Embrace Winter in Norway

Before detailing the plethora of incredible things to do during Norway’s chilly yet beautiful wintertime, let’s cover the essentials like when you can expect winter conditions and what to pack. That way, you’ll be fully prepped to head into the Norwegian snow globe and start making lifelong memories.

The Winter Season in Norway

While everybody has their own concept of when winter “officially” starts, most Norwegians consider winter to run from around early November through early April based on snow, freezing temps, and darkness descending. November welcomes the first dustings of snow in many parts, December sinks into the polar nights up north, January often brings the most intense cold, February spikes with winter break travel crowds, March starts hinting at spring again, and April showcases the season’s last hurrahs.

Of course, variability exists across Norway’s long span reaching into the Arctic. Southern coastal cities like Bergen find winter far milder, while inner mountain towns and Norway’s north see dramatic shifts. Here in Trondheim we’ve had snow on the 17th of May (Norway’s national day) and even in June.

But wherever you may roam, the winter months promise enchanting transformations.

Ideal Times to Visit Norway in Winter

Pinpointing when to visit Norway in winter depends on your interests, budget, and crowd tolerance. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of visiting during different months:

• November:  Minimal crowds, cheaper rates, autumn-winter transition
• December:  Christmas spirit in full swing, busier, higher prices
• January:  Polar night and northern lights viewing, coldest temps
• February:  Winter break crowds, winter sports events, family fun
• March & April:  More daylight returns, spring hints, discount rates

Ultimately there’s no wrong time to visit Norway in winter – each phase of the season offers magic!

What to Pack for Norway’s Winters

Dressing appropriately makes all the difference in fully enjoying Norway’s snowy months. Having the right cold weather gear and winter wear allows you to appreciate the wonder rather than just feeling frozen. Here’s my winter Norway packing list:

• Thermal baselayers (tops & bottoms)
• Winter jacket (waterproof with insulation)
• Snow/ski pants
• Waterproof winter boots
• Scarves, hats, mittens
• Balaclava face coverings
• Hand/foot warmers
• Layering options like flannels, sweaters
• Nighttime wear

Winter Activities for Outdoorsy Fun

If you love activity, Norway serves up endless options for winter fun and adventure. Once you bundle up against the elements, the snowy fun can begin!

Hit Norway’s Legendary Slopes

Norway is recognized as one of the premiere skiing destinations worldwide. Options span from large resorts with après-ski scenes to tiny secret spots without lifts. Groomed trails and off-piste terrain challenge all abilities. Night skiing under spotlights or the northern lights takes it to another level!

Some top spots include Trysil, Hemsedal, Geilo and, of course, the iconic Holmenkollen in Oslo. Don’t miss the annual Holmenkollen Ski Festival celebrating Norway’s ski culture either.

Try Exhilarating Snow Sports

Beyond just downhill skiing and snowboarding, Norway serves up ways to slip and slide across the winter landscape:

• Snowshoeing through remote forests and peaks
• Cross-country skiing on peaceful trails
• Alaskan-style dog sledding across the tundra
• Snowmobiling through the Arctic wilderness
• Ice climbing on towering frozen waterfalls
• Snowkiting using wind power to soar across white expanses

Embark on Arctic Safaris & Reindeer Encounters

Up in Northern Norway, companies offer once-in-a-lifetime Arctic safaris out in the remote snowy wilderness. Experience sleigh rides, ice fishing, Sami cultural insight, and glimpses of reindeer, orcas, foxes, whales and more against stunning backdrops.

Try Ice Swimming, Snorkelling & Scuba Diving

For the ultimate Norwegian polar plunge, join hardcore locals and dive into winter’s freezing waters. Special thermal wetsuits allow swimming below ice sheets, through crackling ice caves, and alongside aquatic wildlife. Serious bragging rights if you dare!

Top Destinations for Winter Holidays

From bustling cities full of twinkling lights to remote reaches where the northern lights dance , Norway overflows with breathtaking places to base your winter escape.

Trondheim: Simply the best

It’s my hometown now so I could be accused of bias, but I have travelled extensively in Norway and my place beats the rest. Trondheim has many of the country’s best and most exciting restaurants, cosiest cafes, lively bars and Norway’s best hotel, along with superb breweries, historical sites and massive, uncrowded forests right on the edge of town, it takes some beating. And it has a beautiful Christmas market, a downhill ski centre and miles of cross-country trails too. I could go on, but you’re better off reading my Trondheim travel guide.

Oslo: Urban Winter Chic

The reasonably vibrant capital city provides plenty to do from munching cod at the Christmas markets to ice skating at Spikersuppa to strolling the illuminated harborfront to touring its museums and galleries. Sled down the Oslo Winter Park mountain right in town!

Tromsø: Gateway to Arctic Adventures

Experience winter’s magic up close in Norway’s “Paris of the North” where Sami culture thrives and Arctic safaris depart to stunning destinations like Svalbard from this walkable base. Gaze at the northern lights from across sweeping bridges.

Lofoten Islands: Dramatic Peaks Meet Azure Waters

There’s no place more intensely beautiful in winter than the snow-dusted peaks of the towering Lofoten Islands, where colorful fishing villages perch along the shoreline looking out at the sea now filled with rocking ice floes and whales.

Geirangerfjord: Fairytale Winter Wonderland

Marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this breathtaking Norwegian fjord landscape transforms into an icy kingdom sprinkled with snow-covered mountain farms, cascading waterfalls turned to ice, and the deserted roads just begging for a cross-country skiing adventure.

Svalbard: Remote Arctic Wilderness

The remote Arctic archipelago of Svalbard turns into a snow globe of glittering ice and experiences like dog sledding across expansive ice sheets, viewing polar bears, and seeking the elusive northern lights dancing across the starry skies in the long polar night.

Top Activities for Families with Kids

Norway shines when it comes to winter fun for families. These activities let kids play and learn in the snow together.

Reindeer Sleigh Rides

Cozy rides at spots like Polar Park pull everyone close together under cozy blankets for a peaceful reindeer sleigh ride through sparkling landscapes. Many hotels also offer short evening rides.

Search for Trolls Around Town

In Bergen, take kids on the Troll Hunt walking tour using clues to find wooden trolls playfully hidden around town. You’ll weave through historic alleys learning about Norway’s troll folktales.

Meet Santa’s Reindeer

At Drotningruta Lodge outside Oslo, families can visit Santa’s reindeer to hand feed them, learn about Sami reindeer herding, and maybe meet Santa himself inside a traditional lavvo tent.

Snow Tubing and Sledding Hills

Snow tubing down hills at ski resorts like Hunderfossen provides wet, wild and hilarious frosty fun. Bring your own sled or inner tubes to careen down gentle slopes together.

Cosy Winter Lodging Options

With shorter winter days spent actively exploring, you’ll want nights spent cozied up in magical accommodations. Norway offers these wonderfully wintry lodging gems:

Remote Wilderness Cabins

Imagine falling asleep under the northern lights and complete silence in remote cabins nestled amid majestic mountains and snowy plains accessible only via snowshoe, ski, or sled. Pure magic!

Snow Hotels Carved from Ice and Snow

From igloo guest suites to ice chapels for exchanging vows, incredible snow hotels like Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel outside Alta and Kirkenes Snow Hotel provide stays carved from ice straight out of fairytales.

Traditional Fjordside Farms

Stay in a historic mountainside farmhouse and immerse in local traditions – from meals of preserved winter foods to roaring fires in wood-burning stoves – while gazing at moonlit fjords and valleys blanketed in snow.

Cosy City Centre Stays

Bergen’s Hotel Oleana and Oslo’s The Thief provide ultra-cozy yet modern downtown stays with fireplaces, bold textiles, and views readymade for unwinding after winter explorations.

Holiday Magic, Traditions & Events

Winter holidays shine bright with extra magic across Norway from Christmas markets to torchlight parades to cod feasts.

Christmas Markets Spread Holiday Cheer

Norway’s major cities sparkle with festive Christmas markets where you can browse traditional crafts and ornaments, warm up with mugs of gløgg, delight in treats like pepperkaker, and find treasured gifts. Trondheim Christmas Market is, perhaps unsurprisingly, my favorite.

Restaurant Feasts on Christmas Eve

Most Norwegians celebrate Julaften, or Christmas Eve, with a multi-course traditional dinner at home. Read more about traditional Norwegian Christmas treats here.

Fireworks on New Year’s

On New Year’s Eve, the sky lights up with dazzling firework shows. Join locals trekking through the snowy streets to public displays to welcome the new year. Scandinavia brings in the New Year in many unusual ways .

Sami Winter Festivals

Experience Arctic winter magic by attending Sami cultural festivals like the Sami Week in Karasjok honoring indigenous traditions. Watch reindeer racing and lassoing, browse crafts, sample cuisine and more.

Getting Around Norway in Winter

While getting around Norway in winter poses some extra considerations, a bit of preparation makes venturing out into the snowy seasons totally manageable.

Driving Tips

• Use snow tyres and bring tire chains for traction
• Stock an emergency roadside kit (warm clothes, food, battery chargers etc.)
• Adjust driving based on road conditions – go slow!
• Avoid driving in complete darkness when possible
• Don’t park along snow banks – you may get plowed in!
• Allow plenty of extra travel time for slower speeds

Winter Public Transit

Buses, trains, ferries and planes still run frequently across Norway in winter. Booking in advance is wise for peak season. Dress warmly when waiting outdoors for transport and confirm schedules ahead of time directly with providers as heavy snow can cause service interruptions.

Regional Flights

Even small communities across Norway remain connected by short flights zipping over the snowy landscapes. Airlines like Widerøe and SAS service destinations across Northern Norway all winter. Flights provide quick domestic connections to your winter adventures!

Key Takeaways for an Incredible Winter Trip to Norway

• November to April spans Norway’s winter season with December-March being “high season”
• Dress in layers with thermal baselayers, waterproof outer gear, and accessories like hats and mittens
• Try exhilarating snow sports across Norway’s stunning winter landscape
• Experience Arctic safaris, reindeer encounters, and more in Northern Norway
• Visit top spots like Trondheim, Oslo, Tromso, Lofoten Islands, and Svalbard for winter magic
• Remote cabins, snow hotels, historic farms, and city stays provide cozy nights
• Holiday events like Christmas markets, torchlight parades and feasts sparkle with extra magic
• Use snow tires, emergency kits, adjusted driving and public transit to get around

With the proper mindset, attire and itinerary embracing all Norway has to offer in its snowiest season, a winter trip here promises profound beauty, cultural insight, heart-pumping activities, holiday enchantment and lifelong memories. Bundle up and let Norway cast its winter magic over you!

I know what it's like to go from being a crazy backpacker without a care in the world, via being a vaguely sensible parent to being an adventurer once more. In other words, evolving into a Grown-up Traveller.

Like everyone else, I love to travel, have visited a lot of countries and all that but my big thing is Africa.

I also own and run The Grown-up Travel Company as a travel designer creating personalised African itineraries for experienced adventurers

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12 Things You Should Know About Traveling to Norway in the Winter

November 16, 2022 by Silvia 51 Comments

After a lifetime of winter visits to Norway, and seven years living in what are some of the wintriest places in Norway, I’ve learned a thing or two about winter in Norway. Now, personally I think winter is when Norway is at its best, but it can also be a bit of a tricky season for travel if you’re not properly prepared.

So read through these tips and then go book yourself that winter trip to Norway!

It’s dark

November, December, and January are dark months in all of Norway though, unlike the north, southern Norway does continue to see sun during the winter months.

But don’t let polar night stop you from visiting northern Norway in the winter! We don’t get any sun in Tromsø from the end of November until mid-January, but I actually love this time of year here. It’s incredibly cozy, and the northern lights are extra spectacular. And while the sun doesn’t actually rise, it does approach the horizon, meaning we do get a few hours of beautiful blue light – like an extended twilight – so you will still be able to see the stunning winter landscape here. 

It’s good to remember the limited daylight hours when planning out your days, though the darkness can also add to your winter experience in Norway. You’ll see some amazing stars at night in the Norwegian countryside, and in the north longer nights mean more chances of seeing the northern lights!

It’s not actually that cold

Thank you, Gulf Stream.

Or maybe no thank you, as I’ve actually seen a lot of visitors disappointed at the lack of snow and frost when they’ve visited Norway in the winter.

If you want to see snow and experience some really cold temperatures, you’re best off heading inland and/or up into the mountains. And that even applies to northern Norway – Tromsø’s winter temperature’s often hover around zero. Last winter we had a huge amount of snow here, but the year before we didn’t have any snow on the ground for all of December! 

That said, sometimes even the Norwegian coast can get really cold, and you want to be prepared so bring appropriate winter clothing. I’ve even written an entire post for you on what to pack for winter in Norway .

It’s cheaper

Winter is off season in many places in southern Norway (not northern Norway), so it can be much cheaper! In fact, after record numbers of tourists last summer, the fjord region has been talking about seriously jacking up their summer prices to keep the crowds down. So if you’re on a budget winter is a much better time to visit!

Read also:  7 Ways Norway Isn’t as Expensive as You Think

A lot of roads might be closed

This is an annoying thing about planning road trips in Norway in the winter – just because you see a road on a map doesn’t mean you can drive it. I can’t seem to find information online about closed roads in English (anyone else know?), but they list the closed roads here and you can use Google translate.

Your best bet is probably to just ask locals about any routes you’re thinking of driving.

Also, on the flip side, I’ve found that sometimes Google Maps will route me away from roads in the summer just because they were closed in the winter. These tend to be Norway’s prettiest roads  too, so don’t rely solely on Google Maps!

You can’t see the northern lights everywhere in Norway

If your hearts are set on seeing the Northern Lights you’re going to have to head north of the Arctic Circle. I would at least go as far north as Bodø , but Tromsø would be an even better bet. 

I mean, sometimes we do get glimpses of the Aurora in southern Norway, but sometimes the UK gets glimpses too – it’s not the norm. If you want any real chance of seeing the Northern Lights then hop on a flight to Tromsø!  Read my guide to winter in Tromsø here . 

Northern Lights Guide!

If you do want to see the Northern Lights, I’ve written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning a Northern Lights trip, including the best places in the Nordics to see the Northern Lights, the best time to see the Northern Lights, my top accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the Northern Lights (including which apps I use), how to photograph and film the Northern Lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best Northern Lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here .   

Book your activities and accommodation early

A lot of people think of summer as peak season, but that’s not actually the case in many places in Norway, especially in the north.

Here in Tromsø peak season runs from November until the end of March, thanks to the norther lights. And since Tromsø is a fairly small city, often every single hotel room here will be fully booked. It can even be hard getting a dinner reservation sometimes! And the same goes for northern lights tours and other winter activities. 

So if you’re visiting Norway in the winter, I would definitely try to book everything as early as possible. You can book your accommodation here , your northern lights tours and winter activities here , and rental car here . 

This isn’t the time for camping

If you’re traveling to Norway on a budget try Couchsurfing or Booking.com .

Read also: How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Norway

If you’re traveling with a group of friends in the winter, then I’d highly recommend renting a cabin in the mountains, which is what most Norwegians do. You can usually book these cabins on Booking.com – a lot of them will be called “Hyttegrend.”

Or if you want a bit more luxury you could stay in a mountain hotel, like this one by Gaustatoppen, for a very traditional Norwegian experience.

February and March are the most beautiful months

December can often be hit or miss with snow and is very, very dark, while January is  cold .

I’d say February is the best time to visit Norway for a true winter experience, whereas if you want milder weather with still lots of snow (at least in the mountains) then March is a good bet.

Read also:  Norway’s Prettiest Winter Landscape

Easter is a huge ski holiday

That’s right, forget egg hunts on grassy lawns and pastel spring dresses, in Norway Easter is all about skiing!

The Easter holidays are a huge deal in Norway and definitely worth experiencing – the mountains are full of people, parties, concerts, and fun activities over Easter – but keep in mind that it can get a little crowded as well.

If you’re going to be in Norway over Easter you’ll want to book your transportation and accommodation way in advance.

Read also:  The Longest Easter in the World? It’s in Norway

Everything shuts down over Christmas

One of the things I love about living in Norway is how seriously they take their holiday time here. But that also means that you shouldn’t expect to get anything done during holidays, especially over Christmas! Pretty much everything, including grocery stores and even some public transport, will shut down by 1 pm on December 24, opening again on the 26th or 27th.

So if you’re spending Christmas in Norway this year (yay!) get all your errands done and where you want to be before Christmas Eve and then enjoy a relaxing few days!

A lot of mountain hikes are closed

Guys, can I get serious for a second?

I feel like every week I’m hearing another story about someone visiting Norway and going on a hike in bad weather, or worse yet, a hike that is closed for the winter, and these stories never have happy endings.

And that’s my excuse for responding in all caps whenever someone emails me telling me that they’ll be in Norway in October and have always dreamt of climbing Trolltunga, and when the hike says it’s only open until September, you can still go on your own after that, right?

Like, sorry for shouting, but you should never, ever, ever ever ever go on hike in Norway that is closed for the season.

A lot of these famous, Insta-popular hikes in Norway are expert-level and out of mobile phone reception. And not only is the weather too icy and the snow too deep for these hikes in the winter, but the days are also far too short.

Cozy days in front of a fireplace in a Norwegian cabin look good on Instagram too!

  A photo posted by Silvia Lawrence (@heartmybackpack) on Jan 10, 2017 at 10:29am PST

Winter tires are a must

When I was younger my family would often fly to Germany before Christmas to visit some friends, and then we’d rent a car a drive up to Norway to see my grandparents.

And every time it was a disaster.

You, see in Germany cars are fitted with year-round tires. The problem is, Germany’s year does not include Norway’s winter.

If you’re planning a winter road trip up into Norway then you’re going to want a car with winter tires, especially if you’ll be heading up into the mountains. In the winter the roads here are covered with a permanent layer of snow and ice and everyone drives around not only on winter tires, but  studded winter tires. This is the law in Norway, so any car you rent in Norway will have winter tires. 

And while we’re on the subject of cars, if you will be driving here in the winter it’s good to keep water, a warm blanket, and snacks in the car just in case you get stuck somewhere. I also always have a wool blanket and shovel for those times my car gets stuck in the snow (if you put the blanket right at the front of the tires they won’t spin in the snow).

Read also:  How to Travel Norway on a Budget: Transportation

Norway travelers! Do you have anything to add?

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Rachel says

January 12, 2017 at 2:34 pm

It really surprises me how different the climate and temperature is when we hop over to Narvik from Abisko for the day. We’ve done it a few times now and we’ve gone from deep snow to mild, rainy weather. It’s like ‘hello Gulf Stream!’

Silvia says

January 14, 2017 at 9:13 am

Yeah that’s so crazy – it’s so far north!

November 19, 2022 at 9:25 am

Hi, I have been to Iceland in Feb and I love it!I am planning to go to Norway in winter..I would like to go further North like Tromso to see the Northern lights but also to see the landscapes and snow during the day. What’s the best month? Jan or Feb? Which places would you recommend?

November 27, 2022 at 10:37 am

If you want to see the landscapes I would visit in February, when the sun has returned. You can find my recommendations for places to visit near Tromsø at the bottom of this post: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/things-to-do-in-tromso/

ANANTH says

January 24, 2023 at 5:51 pm

Elena, This is ANANTH from Pune, India. The Feb is a better month to go to Norway, particularly, Tromso to see the northern lights. I will be travelling to Tromso on 23rd Feb 2023 from Mumbai, India via Helsinki. I will be there for a week or so. Tromso is the best bet to see the spectacle of northern lights.

Corinne says

January 12, 2017 at 4:57 pm

I’m heading to Norway for the weekend, and I just want it to be clear and pretty! I’m layering up!

January 14, 2017 at 9:12 am

Oh how exciting! It looks like you’ll have a good chance of nice weather 🙂

January 12, 2017 at 7:51 pm

Winter in Norway/Scandinavia: use the opportunity to ice-skate on natural ice! (Do ask a local for advice on where it it safe though…) It does not freeze all that much in the rest of Europe any more sadly.

Oh true, you can even drive on the ice in some places if you want!

January 12, 2017 at 8:13 pm

It’s so funny that the fjords are almost entirely visited in summer while everyone is headed to Tromso in winter. Summer here is totally off season and most tourists we get during that time arrive by cruise ship and only stay for a day so all the hotels are empty. Not that I would recommend a visit during summer anyway – I think the Arctic is at its best in winter but I guess, the opposite goes for the fjords 😀

January 14, 2017 at 9:11 am

Oooh really, I didn’t know that! I’ve only been to Tromso in the summer, but that was when I was like seven, haha. We’re thinking of going in June this year though! But you’re right, I need to make it up there in the winter too.

January 16, 2017 at 8:14 pm

Sounds great! Let me know if you’re going and want to meet up 😉

January 19, 2017 at 2:05 pm

Yesss I definitely will!

Puddin says

November 18, 2022 at 5:00 pm

Actually I am planning to hike Norway next year, so I would like to subscribe your blog as well.

Kate - Travel for Difference says

January 13, 2017 at 12:32 am

Norway is SO high on my list. Thank you so much for the wonderful tips. I’ll be sure to look back on this post when I visit X

January 14, 2017 at 9:10 am

Oh wonderful, I hope you like it as much as I do!

Sophie Nadeau says

January 13, 2017 at 8:00 pm

I swear I never had any real urge to visit Norway before I began to read your blog. Now I really want to visit; it sounds so fascinating! Also interesting to know that it doesn’t get too cold in the Winter; I was kind of picturing -40 haha!

January 14, 2017 at 9:09 am

Haha no, the coldest I’ve ever experienced here – high up in the mountains – was -25. Russia on the other hand…

Odd Andreas says

January 30, 2017 at 8:23 pm

On Finnmarksvidda the winther can be really cold. About Finnmarksvidda in Wikipedia, section “Climate” https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnmarksvidda

Mariette van der Nest says

June 26, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Hi, this has really helped me a lot!! Thank you. We are from South Africa and are planning to go to Norway January 2018. Starting in Oslo, Bergen, Tromso, Kirkeness, could you give advice about the availability of domestic flights? Should we book ahead of time? We plan to be there about 12 days – weather wise, what are the chances seeing the northern lights?

June 30, 2017 at 4:40 pm

Hmm you will have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights insofar as it will be really dark in January, but the weather is really unpredictable, especially on the coast, so it may be too rainy/snowy. Hopefully you will have good luck, just be aware that it’s not guaranteed. I would also book your flights ahead of time as they’ll be cheaper. It sounds like you’ll have an amazing trip!

August 24, 2017 at 10:36 am

Hey. Thanks a lot for all the tips. We are planning a trip towards late November and Tromso is definitely on the list, mostly due to the northern lights. What are the chances of us experiencing snow and northern lights towards the last few days of November and would you suggest a better time to visit?

August 31, 2017 at 11:10 am

You should have a very good chance of seeing the Northern Lights in late November, but less of a chance to see snow, unless you go up to the mountains. I believe there’s more snow in January and February there, though often down on the coast won’t have much snow.

Holly Skinner says

September 2, 2017 at 9:21 pm

Hi Sylvia, me and a friend will be in Norway during end of November too! So interesting you say there won’t be much snow in November? We will be renting a car in Oslo and want to slowly make our way to Trondheim to see the Northern Lights! Do you think there will be a lot of closed roads or will we be able to make it up? We’ll definitely be taking a stop in Bergen so that’s our starting point to go further north.

Thank you so much for all of your posts on Norway, they are so helpful!!

September 3, 2017 at 10:36 am

If you’re driving from Bergen up north you will have to avoid any mountain roads that close during the winter (only the really high mountain roads), but if you stick to the main route you should be totally fine. But Trondheim isn’t actually north enough to see the northern lights – it’s actually quite rare to see the northern lights from Trondheim. You’ll want to go at least up to Bodø (another 10 hours from Trondheim) to get a chance to see them.

Hope you have an amazing trip!

MADDALENA says

January 26, 2018 at 2:37 pm

Hi Sylvia! We are 2 couples under 25 and we’re planning a short trip to Norway in late February. We have only 5 days to visit it. We come from Milan, Italy, and we are sick of urban landscapes, so we want to visit mostly natural and typical places. We are thinking about Tromso (hoping to see Northern Lights). How long do you think we shoud stay there, considering the few days we have? Which other places do you suggest us to visit? and using what kind of transport? do you suggest us to rent a car o traveling by bus/ train? (obviously if we decide to visit Tromso we’ll reach it by plane).

Sorry for my bad english and for all those questions!

I really appreciated your advices and I hope you answer me soon!

February 10, 2018 at 6:40 pm

My name is John and I am from Canada. Anyway in November I will be traveling to Iceland, Tromso Norway and then backtracking to Alaska. Leaving on the 14th for Iceland and winding up in Tromso on the 22nd till the 28th. What are the chances of a bit of snow and seeing the northern lights?

Thanking you in advance.

Samuel Franklin says

March 16, 2018 at 4:44 pm

Hi Silvia. Thanks for the blog. I knew Norway is dark in winter, but Christmas time is my favourite season for travelling. Last Christmas I spent in Denmark and it was fabulous. The next year I’m planning to visit Norway, again in December. I’m gonna stay there for a month or even longer. So I’ll probably use Couchsurfing. Hope I won’t develop any sort of depression after being in darkness for a while… just kidding 🙂 What city would you advise for the best Christmas atmosphere? Should it be Oslo, or elsewhere?

sue shellard says

April 4, 2018 at 1:12 pm

Thinking of booking a cruise to go in search of Norther lights as a surprise for my hubby’s birthday in 2019, as I know its on his bucket list. Have been looking at moon phases as I was told it is more likely to experience the lights if it is NOT a full moon. Really want to go in November, and was thinking early November as the days are still slightly longer than at the end of the month. What is the chances of seeing them in early November?

April 4, 2018 at 5:39 pm

Early November is a really good time to go, you’ll just have to hope for good weather as there can be storms that time of year. But I agree that’s it’s good to go when the days are slightly longer. And I’ve still seen Northern Lights when the moon was bright, so it really just depends on your luck and how strong the lights are.

August 24, 2018 at 12:24 am

Hi Silvia, loving your posts. My boyfriend and I want to visit Norway for a week mid-October. We want to head as far north as Tromsø and are looking at different travel options. We love the idea of self drive but are concerned with weather/road conditions. What do you think?

September 20, 2018 at 8:47 am

Hi Silvia thanks for your information is helpful. We plan to visit Norway end of November and we plan to drive from lofoten to tromso. I’m wondering that weather is fine to drive for this long journey?. Appreciate if you give some advice

Amal Ibrahim says

September 24, 2018 at 6:44 pm

Thanks for sharing all this info. I hope to visit Norway someday as it has been on my list of travel destinations for some time now. I especially enjoyed reading about winter in your post. It’s so helpful.

November 18, 2018 at 8:29 pm

Hi Silvia, I am thinking about making Norway my next destination, so I’m bookmarking your blog 😉 Thanks for all the tips! The itinerary is still on the rough side, but I’ll probably do a 2 week trip in March, driving through the southwest and the fjordlands for the first week or so, and then taking a flight up to the arctic circle for 4 or 5 days to catch the Northern Lights and maybe Lofoten. From your experience, what’s March like for driving in Norway in general, and in the southwest in particular? I have zero experience in driving in the snow, so I’m a bit worried that Norway might come at me too strong. I mean, I’m used to wet, tough roads, but a permanent layer of ice on the pavement isn’t something that we see every day in Portugal. Thanks again! Cheers,

Pedro Ratto says

January 14, 2019 at 9:12 pm

Hi Silvia, nice blog !!! Congrats… I’m actually living in Copenhagen and pretend to visit Norway in the end of Feb and beginning of march. We are all around 33 years old and we are wondering to spend around 4 days, from Friday to Monday. What do you suggest for a couple and one friend, I really would love to visit the Fjords.

Thanks Best Pedro

May 10, 2019 at 1:36 am

Your blog is a dream when planning a trip to Norway (although my list of things I want to do is getting very long!) If I plan to come late March/ early April how many hours of daylight should I plan on having?

May 12, 2019 at 12:14 am

Glad to hear that! Daylight depends on where you’ll be, but you can just Google the place name + sunrise/sunset and the date and Google will tell you 🙂

Jessica says

August 1, 2019 at 12:41 am

Hi! Thanks for all of the tips! I am looking to plan a trip the last week of November and Lofoten is a must for us. I am wondering if you can give me any insight during this time of the year – weather, if you are able to hike, how much daylight do you get, northern lights possibilities.. sorry for all of the questions I am just concerned if it is a good idea scenic wise to go during this week. Any answers will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

Elisa Frag says

September 25, 2019 at 5:30 pm

Well i would love to visit Norway in winters but some of my friends told me that hoteling in Norway is little bit costly is it right?

October 1, 2019 at 11:36 am

Hi there, We’re heading for Norway 3rd – 7th January. We’ll be Travelling from Copenhagen and ultimately need to fly out of Oslo on 7th. Is it worth aiming for Tromso to see northern lights and maybe do dog sledding and then just fly down to Oslo? Or is this not the best time of year? Appreciate any suggestions. Last year we were in Bergen in summer and travelled up to Lom, which was amazing. Thanks, Maria

October 1, 2019 at 3:22 pm

Yeah I definitely think the North is best in the winter. I would fly straight to Tromsø and back, and totally skip Oslo, aside from your flight out.

Ankita says

October 5, 2019 at 5:00 am

Your blog is very informative and amazing! I was planning a trip from 5th nov 2019 for ten days. Do you think it would be a good idea? What can I expect?

October 7, 2019 at 7:22 pm

Loved your post! My (new) husband and I are considering going to Norway for our honey moon from roughly March 27 – April 8. We would love to catch some Winter up north..stay in log cabins, but also get some outdoorsy hikes in further south around the fjords. Is this an option do you think?

Thanks, Joan

Drumradio2.com says

February 26, 2020 at 10:37 am

I think I d better brush up on my Norwegian knowledge before I go, I m embarrassed to say I know very little about the country so thank you for saving me from some awful faux Pas!! I ve spent a lot of time in Latin America too, and I forget that other cultures need more space!

Pierre says

October 4, 2021 at 4:30 am

Hello My daughter currently in Norway up to December. The only period we can visit her will be during Christmas time. Can you tell me if it does worth to go in December as it will be dark all time. Is with the moon line we can see the landscape? Or the only activity will be to see the northern lights

October 4, 2021 at 12:56 pm

Yes, even during polar night in northern Norway we still get a few hours of daylight (except Svalbard) so you can still see a lot.

Renata Lazzatoni says

October 17, 2021 at 7:11 pm

I rally wanted to see killer whales but I only hve holidays on 20 december, is it too dare to go to Tromso to see killer whales and Northern Lights?

Northerner says

July 29, 2023 at 10:26 am

Hello January is cold. But is it worth going in January? We can’t go in February or March unfortunately

July 29, 2023 at 5:18 pm

Yes, I personally love January! Just bring warm clothing.

Philip says

October 3, 2023 at 6:54 am

Hello I am planning on going to Norway in November and would like more information about it Does it snow a lot around this time? Also, if I want to see the northern lights in tromso, where can I see them? Is there any public transportation there?

October 4, 2023 at 2:57 pm

You can read my guide to Tromsø in winter here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/tromso-in-winter-things-to-do/

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Norway in Winter: Why It’s Worth Visiting

Looking for a reason to visit Norway in Winter? Look no further – here’s everything you need to know. 

Yes, Norway is idyllic during the summertime. But if you’re looking for something different, you have to visit in winter. 

Snow covers almost everything, making Norway an epic winter wonderland worth exploring – it’s a totally eye-popping, jaw-dropping experience.

Stick around as I take you through some of the most unmissable things to do in Norway in winter. 

Brilliant Things to Do in Winter in Norway

Chase the northern lights .

Okay, so I have to start with the epic Northern Lights. I mean, come on. A trip to Norway in the winter wouldn’t be complete without chasing this majestic phenomenon. 

Every year from September through March, northern Norway sees very little sunlight. That’s great news because it means you stand a good chance of seeing this colourful natural light spectacle dance across the arctic sky. 

Tip: book this epic Northern Lights chasing tour from Tromso for the best chance of spotting the beautiful aurora. Read Next: Impressive Northern Lights Hotels in Norway

Spend Some Time in the Capital, Oslo 

Oslo is Norway’s bustling capital, which means there’s a lot to do here, even in winter. Some highlights of the city include the Norwegian Maritime Museum , where you can learn about Norway’s long seafaring history dating back to the Viking era. 

If you travel to Norway in December, you’ll find Oslo a-buzz with the festive spirit. Snow, Christmas trees, and lights adorn the city — it looks like something from a fairytale. 

There are multiple Christmas markets throughout Oslo where you can buy treats and gifts and indulge in traditional mulled wine – glogg . 

Ultimately I think that one of the best ways to spend time in Oslo is by going on a walking tour , especially when it isn’t snowing in buckets. 

This will take you past some of the city’s iconic landmarks like the Nobel Peace Prize Centre (definitely dip inside for an afternoon if you have the time), The National Theatre, and Oslo Cathedral. 

Take a Winter Train Ride

One activity you can enjoy during the Norwegian Winter that doesn’t involve spending time outdoors and freezing your behind off is a scenic train ride. Norway has one of the best rail routes in Europe, covering over 2,000 miles of track. 

The most scenic and popular one is from Oslo to Norway’s second most popular city, Bergen. You can sit back and relax as you take in picturesque views of the country’s famous fjords, snow-covered mountain peaks, valleys, forests, and charming villages.

Explore Norway’s Famous Fjords

If you search for things to do in Norway, it’s highly likely a cruise on a fjord will pop up as one of the first things. And for good reason. Norway’s fjords are absolutely spectacular. Don’t believe me? Find out for yourself. 

Snow-covered mountains, towering waterfalls, and tranquil waters are just a few things that await you. Bergen is the” Gateway to the Fjords,” so it’s a good starting point to hop on a fjord cruise and discover Norway’s incredible outdoor landscape. 

Head to Tromsø

Tromsø markets itself as “The Arctic Capital” and the best place to see the Northern Lights, which is pretty bold if you ask me. But it’s a title that the city has every right to claim. Tromsø is a vibrant city surrounded by raw nature. 

So it’s the perfect escape for a city break not far from outdoor activities at all. It’s also the “Land of the Midnight Sun” during the Polar Night Season. 

While Tromsø is a popular spot to chase the Northern Lights, there are plenty of other things to do here. Try sampling some unique Norwegian cuisine, visit one of the city’s many museums, or tour the iconic Arctic Cathedral. 

Tip: Check out my guide on things to do in Tromso in Winter and discover more activities to add to your Norway itinerary. 

Meet the Sami People & Ride a Reindeer

The Sami are Norway’s indigenous people who live in the northernmost part of the country – they’ve lived there for thousands of years and carry rich traditions and history with them. The winter months in Norway are a great way to learn more about the Sami and their way of life. 

Reindeer sledding with a Sami guide is the perfect opportunity to have some fun in the snow and pretend to be Santa Claus for a few hours. It’s also a great way to see how the Sami herd reindeer, which they’ve been doing for thousa nds of years. 

You can also visit a Sami camp and see how they live, as well as enjoying a traditional hot meal – certainly most welcome after spending time in below-freezing temperatures. 

Travel Along the Atlantic Road

Now, it’s hard to beat a drive along the Atlantic Road if you’re looking for a scenic self-guided adventure. It’s been around for over 30 years and stretches five miles along Norway’s west coast. 

The Atlantic Road connects a series of small islands and inlets to the mainland via eight bridges. At first glance, it looks somewhat like a road roller coaster, twisting and winding as it makes its way from one island to the next. 

But it’s totally worth the ride as you explore this rugged and wild part of the country. 

Note: Drivers should be extra cautious in winter as the road can be quite slippery due to icy conditions. Make sure to fit your car with snow tires to handle the slick road. 

Spend an Evening in an Ice Hotel

You might have heard of the Ice Hotel in Sweden. Well, the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes is Norway’s answer to that. This is a seasonal hotel that’s rebuilt every year since 2006, made completely from ice and snow. 

Each room is unique, with fantastic ice carvings and special lights. If you can brave the cold, it’s worth spending an evening here. If you can’t, well, visit anyway to say you’ve been to a snow hotel. 

Pop into the ice bar or restaurant where you can enjoy a drink or meal served in an ice glass or plate. 

Try Some of the Best Seafood in Norway

Seafood lover? You’re in luck. Norway has some of the best seafood you’ll find in the world and, lucky for you, it’s usually at its prime during winter. Norway has over 60 000 miles of coastline, so there’s no shortage of spots where you can enjoy fresh seafood delicacies.

Think iconic Norwegian salmon, king crab, lobster, scallops, and cod. The Fjord Restaurant in Oslo specialises in seafood and other Norwegian dishes, and locals and visitors alike will often tell you it’s the best place to dine in the city. 

Go On a Skiing Adventure

While the Alps are usually most people’s preferred ski destination, Norway’s slopes give them a good run for their money. Norway has numerous ski resorts with endless ski trails and mountain plateaus. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro skier, there’s a trail for everyone. Apart from regular skiing, you can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowboarding. And, if you’re not keen on trekking out to the mountains, there’s the SNO indoor ski park just outside Oslo.

Complete with wide ski slopes, ski lifts, and everything else you would expect from an outdoor resort, SNO is open all year round to enjoy some fun in the icy powder. 

Explore the Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are one of the best places to visit in Norway. Not only are they a great place to spot the Northern Lights, but they have one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. 

Think towering mountains, fjords, and seabird colonies; there’s a lot that you can do here in winter. From fjord fishing, ocean rafting, and discovering Lofoten’s stunning arctic beaches, it doesn’t disappoint. These islands really are a hidden Nordic gem.

Oh, and I must mention that it’s a food lover’s paradise with various eateries serving fresh seafood and comforting bowls. Lofoten Island’s food is an excellent introduction to Nordic cuisine, so go in with an open mind and expand your palette. 

Tip: Check out my guide to the Lofoten Islands for a more in-depth review of what you can look forward to on the islands. 

Learn About the Vikings

Most of us know of the Vikings — fearsome warriors who terrorised the seas and built one of the strongest empires in history. Oh yes — apart from that, they’re also brilliant engineers, building impressive boats for long distance trips and battle. 

Visiting the Viking Museum in Oslo might pique your interest if you’re a history buff. Here you can learn everything you could ever want to know about these mighty warriors, from their rise to their downfall. 

Oh, and the best way to get there is via a shuttle boat, so you can feel like a viking yourself as you approach.

Visit the Old Wharf of Bergen

You might have seen those colourful houses perched along Bergen’s waterfront. Bryggen, the Old Wharf of Bergen, is one of the oldest ports in Europe and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. 

This port has survived fires and other devastating threats but still stands today, so for that reason alone, it’s worth visiting. During winter, you can stroll along the wharf area and discover loads of shops, restaurants, and cafés overlooking the waterfront. 

Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the best things you can do in Norway during winter. Whether you’re taking a cruise from Tromso or elsewhere, it’s a real treat. 

As you cruise around the maze of fjords, you’ll spot humpback whales, orcas, and other arctic wildlife sticking their heads out to say hi. 

Tip : Bring a raincoat! Whales like to breach, so there’s a good chance you will get wet if your boat is close enough. It will still be worth it though, I promise.

Practical Tips for Visiting Norway in Winter: 

• Wrap up warm If you’re wondering: “how cold does it get in Norway,” I can tell you that it gets pretty cold. Norway’s winter temperatures vary from one area to the next, but overall it’s going to be teetering on freezing. Expect temperatures from the minus regions to 8°C. 
• One of the main things to consider when visiting Norway in winter is the fact that there’s very little sunlight. On average, you might get about 6 hours, which could affect your itinerary because you won’t have much time to see and do everything. But this is great because it means you’ll get a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights. 
• While most city attractions are still open in winter, be sure to check ahead of time. 

Norway in Winter: Map

Norway in Winter: Read Next

• When to See the Northern Lights?
• Northern Lights Hotels in Norway
• A Guide to the Lofoten Islands
• Unmissable Things to do in Norway
• Epic Ski Resorts in Norway
• Brilliant Things to do in Tromso
• A Foodie Guide to Lofoten Islands, Norway

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Norway Winter Travel Itinerary – Magical (and Unique!) Winter Road Trip

There are tons of things to do in Norway in winter . Want to discover the real Norway winter travel and go on an epic road trip accessible by self-drive from Oslo? Fancy finding out some of the best places to visit in Norway in winter with thrilling winter activities and without many people? The Norway winter itinerary below will help you do just that!

Norway winter travel made differently

Norway winter travel is an amazing experience. I’m sure you’ve heard about people going up north to Tromsø to chase the Northern Lights , go dog-sledding , and rave about all those awesome things to do in Norway in winter . Luckily, the southern part of the country is equally beautiful, but less visited by tourists in winter.

Picture the white, hilly landscape, frosty trees, and fluffy snow. Joyful fireplace in the wooden cabin or a cottage with the terrace hanging just above the fjord. Winter outdoor adventures, cross-country skiing, dog sledding , and everything snow-related. Yes, the Norway winter travel experience is a special one.

Read more: Norway winter clothing – what to pack for Norway in winter

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More details here .

Magical Norway Winter Itinerary

After my recent move to Norway, a winter trip for a New Year’s Eve break was a must. To go and explore the amazing Norwegian landscape, visit stunning destinations and connect with nature. In five days, we drove to some of the most scenic routes in Norway, tried various outdoor activities, and discovered some of the best places to visit around Norway in winter, including part of Norway in a nutshell on our own.

The Norway winter itinerary below is perfect for New Year’s Eve or Christmas break or just any type of winter holiday. We tried to balance the peaceful stay in nature with some outdoor winter adventures and exploring some beautiful places. As a bonus, they happen to be off-season in the winter, which basically means – no people, only nature and you, so the best time ever.

You can switch things around and adjust them to your needs, but I wanted to give you some ideas on the best places to go in Norway in winter, especially when you start your trip from Oslo .

However, remember, that travel in Norway in winter is more difficult than in any other season. You always need to account for the bad weather and early dark hours when you calculate the driving time. More about how to drive in Norway in winter, what to expect, and the details about car rental in Norway are below. Don’t forget to pack proper Norway winter clothing with you, to make sure you are prepared for any type of weather.

Read more: The best things to do in Oslo in winter

Driving in Norway in winter – Norway Winter Road Trip

Driving in Norway in winter conditions is a wonderful experience, thanks to the beautiful snowy landscape, but it is also a big challenge. It is not recommended for an inexperienced driver, especially on mountain roads. The snowplows are running quite often on the main roads, but for a lot of time, you will be driving on pure ice, slush or snow. With the snowstorm blowing into your windscreen and early-coming darkness, those are not the best driving conditions. Some of the scenic routes in Norway are also permanently closed in winter , which can mean as late as May/June or as early as October.

You need to have winter tires and I doubt that you can find the car without them, but better check if there is an additional payment needed or if it’s all included. The spuds also help, but only if you travel outside the cities. Be prepared for bad weather and a slowdown in your journey or convoy driving. Have the necessary supplies in the car, which include food, warm Norway winter clothes, a torch, a reflective vest, an ice scraper, and snow shovel.

However, don’t let this scare you off. If you know what you are doing and you’ve driven in wintery conditions before – you’ll be fine. The whole experience with wonderful winter scenery will definitely be worth it! We even saw a moose on the road!

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How to rent a car in Norway

There are many car rental agencies in Norway and it’s quite straightforward. I can recommend using Rentalcars to check for the lowest prices and choose the best car there.

However, double-check if everything you need is included – the winter tires, insurance, what happens for toll payment, etc. Usually, a normal car should be fine, if you stick to the main roads, but in case you go into the mountains or smaller roads, I recommend a 4×4. 

Remember about the insurance and add the cost of petrol and tolls. Many roads in Norway have automatic tolls , that just scan your car as you pass through and send a receipt to the rental company, which they will then forward to you. You would also normally need to have some money on your card, that will be ring-fenced by the company as a deposit in case the car is lost or damaged. After you return the vehicle, it all comes back to you.

Awesome things to do in Norway in winter, and places to visit

Norway is a big country and there are many places to visit in Norway in winter.  If you want to discover the south of the country and visit unique winter destinations, the below itinerary will take you through the roads between Oslo and Bergen . On the way, you can experience the city life of the south, the famous Norwegian fjords, little traditional villages, and the breathtaking snowy landscapes.

Read more: Norway on a budget – Local tips

Day 1: Oslo – Nesbyen

Start your Norway winter itinerary in Oslo. The city has two airports and good connections with many cities in Europe and in the world. There are many things to do in Oslo in winter , with outdoor activities, several museums, great restaurants, cafes, and modern architecture. If you have time, spend a day in Oslo. And if you have more time, you can even take one of Oslo’s day trips , as well. 

After you visit the capital head north-west in the direction of Nesbyen .

Nesbyen is a small town, lying around 150 km from Oslo and 70 km from Geilo. If you prefer, you can head straight to Geilo and spend more days there, but I recommend stopping in the little town of Nesbyen first. Filled with culture and history, kilometers of cross-country skiing tracks (it’s so Norwegian!), alpine slopes, and a beautiful quiet landscape, it’s a perfect winter holiday destination to get away from it all.

It’s even better if you manage to get there the previous evening, so you have the whole next day for activities in the snow. Visit the old part of town, called Gamle Nes, and stroll among 19th-century houses, stopping by the cute cafes. There are also pretty Norwegian-style churches, that I love visiting. Who doesn’t like Scandinavian architecture?

The nearby Hallingdal Museum dating to 1899 is classified among the oldest open-air museums in Norway. It’s a great place to get to know the history of the region.

On the way to Geilo, you can also find an interesting  Gardnos Meteor Park. It tells the story of a 300 meters wide meteorite, that struck the earth near Nesbyen 546 million years ago. The forces created 5 kilometers wide crater. The park is closed in winter, but it might still be possible to go to the crater. We didn’t check it, as it was full of snow and we didn’t have time, but let me know if you do!

Where to stay in Oslo?

I wrote a detailed post on where to stay in Oslo , that explains different Oslo districts and recommends specific places, so check it out. Otherwise, here are two suggestions:

$ Saga Poshtel Oslo Central – one of the cheaper hotels, located in Oslo city center with beds starting from € 39 and very high reviews.   Check prices and availability.

$$$  Oslo Guldsmeden – an eco-friendly hotel with Balinese decor and organic breakfast (so delicious, yum) is one of the best hotels in Oslo. I stayed there for several days on one of my visits and loved it. Check prices and availability.

Looking for more activities in Norway? Check here for the best offers!

Day 2: Nesbyen – Geilo

The next day, you can drive to another wonderful winter sports town – Geilo. Geilo was one of the first ski areas in Norway and it grew from there. It’s located close to two national parks – Hallingskarvet and Hardangervidda and is surrounded by beautiful mountains. With 500 km of cross-country skiing trails and 39 slopes for downhill skiing, you won’t be bored.

There is also another fun activity, that you can try in Geilo – dog sledding . Many people are not aware, that you can do dog sledding in Norway not only in Tromsø or far north. South of Norway has good places for it too.  I love dogs and the Huskies running with the sleds are so excited about every trip. To read more about this fun activity go here.

From Geilo, you can also take a 45 minutes train to Finse.  It’s a remote mountain village, only connected with the world by the railway, with no road. It looks like a great place to visit, perfect for various winter activities. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time for time. Maybe you will?

Where to stay in Geilo

Tiny house in Geilo – get in touch with nature in the traditional wooden cabin with huge windows. Check prices and availability here .

$ Øen Turistsenter   – This is one of the cheapest options in Geilo. You can rent the apartment or the cottages with access to the sauna and outdoor hot tub. Book your stay or check the prices in Øen Turistsenter here .

$$ Geilo Hotel – an affordable option for a trip to Geilo with steam rooms, a sauna, and amazing views. Book your stay or check the prices at Geilo Hotel here .

$$$ Geilo Mountain Lodge – traditional Norwegian 5-star hotel with sauna, terrace, and a garden. Book your stay or check the prices in Geilo Mountain Lodge here . 

Read more: Traditional Norwegian Hytte – 10 cute cabins in Norway to stay at

Day 3: Geilo – Aurland, and Flåm

It’s time to leave the country’s interior and move closer to the fjords. Winter by the fjords feels so mystic and special. Nærøyfjord, a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List , surrounded by snow-covered peaks rising up to 1800 meters above sea level, is said to be one of the most spectacular fjord landscapes in the world. The famous little towns located around the fjord are Flåm and Aurland.

The area is one of the most popular in Norway and the journey to get there is called “ Norway in the nutshell “. Luckily, winter seems to be off-season there, so you can appreciate the peaceful feel of the fjords without the crowds. God knows why, because everything looks so beautiful covered with snow! There are so many fun things to do in Flam in winter , too, so make sure to check them out.  

On the way, you will pass through the longest tunnel in the world – the Lærdal Tunnel , measuring 24.51-kilometers. It wasn’t my favorite part of the journey, though. How long can you stare at the concrete walls? I need my views 😉

Where to stay in Flåm and Aurland

$ Brekke Gard Hostel – budget accommodation in Flam, located  1 km from Flåm Station and the Aurlandfjord shore. Book your stay or check the best prices in Brekke Gard Hostel here.

$$$ Flåm Marina – Upscale hotel located just by the Flam Marina, with stylish rooms and amazing views of Sognefjord. Book your stay or check the best prices in Flåm Marina here .

Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri . – probably the best hotel in Norway that I stayed in. Located in Aurland, a short drive away from Flam. I can recommend the beautiful cottages hanging by the fjords. Book your stay or check the best prices in Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri here.

Want even more arctic experience? Check the best things to do in Svalbard High Arctic

Day 4: Explore Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjorden

I recommend you spend the whole day in this wonderful part of Norway. Admire the views from the Stegastein viewpoint and hike the hills above it. Visit tiny Flåm village with its famous railway, do some shopping for typical Norwegian gifts and souvenirs , take a fjord cruise or try the delicious goat cheese in Undredal. For the overnight stay, I recommend stopping in the quiet Aurland. You can find there the best view from the cottages overlooking the mountains by the fjord in  Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri – book here.

Even though visiting this part of Norway is famous to be done by train, you wouldn’t be able to go to some of those places in winter without a car. Make use of it as much as you can. You can read more about   Norway in a Nutshell in winter here.

If you would rather do Norway in a Nutshell tour with a train and visit Nærøyfjord as a part of a train trip from Bergen, this self-guided tour from Bergen through the fjords to Oslo includes pre-organized travel by train, bus, and boat with all the needed tickets .

Day 5: Back to Oslo through Hemsedal (or further to Bergen)

With more time, you can extend your Norway winter itinerary and include Bergen in winter . You would need two or three more days in order to make the most of it. The distance from Flam to Bergen is around 170km, which in winter can take much longer. It is also worth staying in Bergen at least for a day.

If you decide to go back to Oslo, prepare yourself for a long drive. It’s around 300 km, which can take between 4,5 – 5,5 hours or even more in bad weather, so set off quite early.  On the way, you can take a break in Hemsedal  and try skiing in Scandinavian Alps. We had there our first cross-country skiing experience and it was so much fun! There are also several ski slopes and ski resorts, where you can rent the equipment and have a very nice meal to help you get more energy for the drive back to Oslo. Or you can extend your stay for a bit longer and choose one of the many great hotels and cabins in the area.

Map of the Norway winter road trip – 5 days itinerary

What to pack for Norway in winter?

Check my post for the best Norway winter clothing and what to pack for Norway in winter . Here are some must-haves that you need to pack for Norway:

• Warm, moisture-absorbing base layer. I recommend a merino wool top and merino wool bottoms .
• Mid-layer, such as fleece or down jacket.
• Waterproof and windproof outer layers. For the top, I always recommend the Goretex jacket , and for the bottom, the waterproof pants .
• Warm and waterproof boots, with solid soles, that will not be slippery on the ice. I often use my trekking shoes with very warm socks.
• Warm, wool socks .
• Thermal socks, hat, and scarf.

Read more about Norway:

• Norway on a budget
• Norwegian gifts and souvenirs to bring back from your trip
• Best Norway winter clothing – what to pack for Norway in winter
• Norway in a Nutshell in winter
• Dog sledding in Norway
• The best things to do in Oslo in winter

Published: 2019 Updated: 2022

Would you like to try and do the Norway winter road trip yourself? Where would you go first? Let me know in the comments!

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Related posts:

• Discover Magical Norway in a Nutshell in winter & on your own
• Fun & Unique Things to Do in Oslo in Winter (By a Local)
• 22 Best Things To Do In Flam, Norway – Ideas For Every Season
• 16 Undeniable Reasons Why You Should Visit Norway In The Winter

19 thoughts on “ Norway Winter Travel Itinerary – Magical (and Unique!) Winter Road Trip ”

Cool pics, but I am no fan of the snow. How warm is a typical summer day?

Thanks! Summer is pretty cool here, too! You can even swim in the fjords 🙂 It can be around 20-25 degrees

oh my goodness, what a gorgeous winter wonderland – I’ve never been but I am DYING to go! xx Shannon || http://www.champagneatshannons.com

Thanks, Shannon! You should definitely come by one day 🙂

Norway looks like a winter paradise! I can’t wait to see views like this for myself one day! I also love your photographs! They are stunning! Thanks for sharing and also adding to my wanderlust.

Thank you Mike! It really is winter paradise, come and check for yourself 😉

WoW you’ve given some really important information and tips about traveling Norway. Those pictures are wonderful too. Will pin this post surely.

This itinerary looks fantastic and your photos are magical! I love the view from the hut you stayed in. What app do you use to edit your photos?

Thanks, Tasha! Those photos were edited using Lightroom.

This looks like a winter wonderland! I’ve always wanted to try dog sledding!

Thanks! The more detailed post about dog sledding is coming soon 🙂

Thank you so much for sharing this we really loved it!

Great to hear that 🙂

Your photos are beautiful and really highlight the beauty of the place. I rarely co sided a wi yet destination but I think you have changed my mind!!

Thank you! Yes, it’s really worth visiting!

It was a pleasure to read the article you shared with us, and I found it extremely helpful.

Hi Aga, superb write up.

I’m just wondering if you feel I would be missing out if I didn’t visit Odda? Lot’s of people seem to have it high on their list.

I would definitely visit Odda and surroundings, but preferably in the summer since there is a lot of cool hikes to do there (like Trolltunga or Reinanuten ). But if you have more time in winter, it’s also nice to visit!

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How to visit the Norway fjords in winter (2023 guide)

Are you dreaming of the Norway fjords in winter? As far as winter destinations go, this postcard-perfect part of the Nordics boasts epic winter activities, charming villages and fascinating history. Here’s a travel guide with all you need to know about visiting the epic fjords in Norway in the winter months!

Snow-covered fir trees lined the dark road as we ploughed through the darkness, en route from Sogndal airport to Fjaerland, a small fjordside village some 40 minutes away.

The sun had set long before, but the moonlight bounced off the snow as our driver skilfully drove us over fjords and into the countryside.

The windows were brightly lit at the Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel, a beacon in an otherwise silent landscape, and our host stood at the door.

“Welcome to the Norwegian fjords”, she said cheerfully, “you can’t see it right now, but here we’re right on the edge of one! Just wait until sunrise”.

I was on a trip visiting some of Norway’s fjords in winter; to experience some of their cooler-season activities and discern what the destination has to offer in the cooler months. Discover more about them in this blog post!

This blog post contains affiliate links. I visited as a guest of Widerøe Airlines and Visit Fjord Norway. All opinions are my own.

Table of Contents

Are the Norwegian fjords in winter worth visiting?

“Let’s cut to the chase – you can’t live here if you don’t like snow” Jarle, the owner of Fjaerland Guiding , told us the next morning. “Our lives in winter are entirely snow-based.

The fjords look completely different from November to March – as you can see, they’re totally covered by thick white snow”. 

Most Norwegian fjord destinations will be at least a little snowy throughout the winter months – except for Bergen, which sees snow sometimes, but more often has temperatures above freezing.

While the colder weather means that you’ll need to don a few extra layers, the bright white snow does nothing but enhance the landscape (and fjord tours run all winter round!), plus it brings a plethora of other attractions: skiing, snowshoeing and glacier chasing are always on the menu when visiting the Norway fjords in winter.

Kayaking or swimming in the fjords may seem less appealing during this season (although there are certainly people who still do both – the Norwegians are a hardy bunch), but the enticing snow-covered streets and cosy winter atmosphere are enough to draw even the most sceptical of travellers in.

Norway’s fjords aren’t necessarily better in winter, but they’re different to the summer months, and anyone who’s a fan of wintery landscapes and snowy activities should mark it as a must-visit travel experience.

How to get to the Norwegian fjords in winter

We flew to the Norway fjords as a guest of Widerøe , a local airline that, using Bergen as its hub, connects 41 destinations in Norway (including many of its fjord towns and cities) with eight European destinations (including London and Aberdeen). 

Widerøe connects Bergen to Sogndal by way of a small propellor plane; and uses a slightly larger vessel to carry passengers all the way up north, to Tromsø – the self-proclaimed “ capital of the Arctic ”.

All of its planes are in a 2×2 configuration – ideal for people who are travelling as a couple or group of two or four – and the airline offers free tea and coffee for flights of over 40 minutes and free entertainment (which you’ll need to use a smartphone to view).

However, one of the main drawbacks to visiting the Norwegian fjords in winter is that there can be delays.

Our plane from Bergen to Sogndal was delayed for around an hour due to the weather – and, according to some of our fellow (local) plane takers, there was a chance that the plane would have been taken to Oslo if the weather didn’t permit us to land in Sogndal.

We had further delays when flying from Tromsø to Bergen; the plane was delayed three hours, causing us to miss our connection back to London and meaning that we had to spend another night in Bergen.

While this shouldn’t deter you from visiting fjord Norway in winter, from my experience I recommend keeping plans fairly flexible (you never know what the weather will do here!) and allowing an extra day in Bergen or Oslo before flying back to your home country.

Sogndal is the heart of the Norwegian fjords, and from here you can take public transport to places like Fjaerland and Flam. 

Places to visit in fjord Norway in winter

You’ll find rocky cliffs tumbling into narrow bodies of water throughout the western part of Norway. Here are some of the best fjord destinations to visit throughout the cooler months:

The second-largest city in Norway and the hub of its fjord country, Bergen offers the perfect mix between urban and rural.

The beautiful city is much more well-connected than other destinations on this list – making it most certainly the easiest place to visit in fjord Norway in winter – but its city charms don’t just stop at its connectivity.

Bergen’s nestled right in between fjords; you can explore one on foot as you walk around the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, which was built by the Hanseatic League after the city was destroyed by fire time and time again. You’d think they would have stopped building from wood at one point!

The city’s home to art galleries and museums (the Bergen Maritime Museum explains its intrinsic link to the city and was a personal favourite of mine), and there are opportunities to try fresh seafood (which fjord Norway unsurprisingly excels in), summit up surrounding mountains or toast to a successful day exploring at an abundance of bars – Frescohallen, which boasts beautiful murals depicting Bergen’s maritime history, was my favourite.

But you came here to see the fjords, and the fjords you will see! Boat trips leave from right outside the visitor’s centre, taking 3.5 hours and sailing past Bergen’s local fjords.

It’s not quite as immersive an experience as staying in Fjaerland, but if you want an easy-to-reach destination boasting a mix of city life and nature and with something for all ages, Bergen’s just the ticket.

The chalk to Bergen’s cheese, Fjaerland is quiet, secluded and rather tricky to get to.

The best way (considering the Norwegian roads can be exceptionally difficult to navigate in the winter season for anyone who isn’t experienced in driving in these kinds of conditions), is to fly to Sogndal, take a bus to Sogndal city centre and then board another bus to Fjaerland.

Fjaerland’s not one to visit if you’re just on a quick city break – but if you’re on a longer winter trip around Norway and want to see some of its cosiest yet most dramatic locations, this village is one to not miss.

While Fjaerland is tricky to get to, when you’re here you’ll be welcomed like an old friend with exceptional hospitality at the Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel and a range of activities organised by Fjaerland Guiding.

Immerse yourself in the fjord’s natural scenery by taking a fishing trip (we went in rough, snowy weather – remember there’s no such thing as bad weather, only such thing as bad clothing!) or kayak right on the fjord if the weather’s smoother (it’s possible in the winter!).

Fjaerland is down the road from Jostedalsbreen , the largest glacier in mainland Europe, and guided snowshoe tours are available throughout the winter season.

There’s also the impressive Norway Glacier Museum , where you can take a virtual flight over the glacier, educate yourself on its geography and learn about the perils that glaciers all over the world face – and most importantly, what we can do to protect them.

If you’d rather sit and appreciate the views, step into the floating sauna, perhaps cooling down by taking a dip in the near-frozen waters.

You could also warm up in the Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel , which was built in 1937 and nowadays boasts a range of homely, cosy rooms with fjord views and a large communal area where guests are invited to sit on squashy sofas and watch fjord life go by, and enjoy a steaming hot cup of coffee.

Coffee’s only the beginning of Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel’s culinary offerings. “We don’t do things by halves,” our host Inna told us as she brought out plates of freshly-made pasta, mine served with a rich, creamy sauce and four different types of mushrooms.

By the time we were eating our light and zesty raspberry cake, topped with lashings of cream, I was considering moving there!

“The story of Flåm starts in 1850 with salmon and English lords” Anne, our host from Norway’s Best, described.

What was once a remote, cut-off village quickly drew the attention of tourists, with Frentheim Hotel (Flåm’s most famous) opening first as a manor house and gradually expanding to become a hotel.

This was largely thanks to the Flåm Railway, a lifeline link from Myrdal, a stop on the Bergen – Oslo line, down to the village.

While the railway started for logistical purposes, it quickly rose to fame as one of the world’s most beautiful railway journeys.

Flåm is also close to some of the deepest and largest fjords in Norway.

See these from above by partaking in a snowshoeing tour with Fjord Safari; the guide will take you into the mountains, to the epic Stegastein viewpoint. If you don’t want to walk the whole way down, there’s a quicker way – sledging!

You’ll find a range of fjord-based winter activities in Flåm as well.

All-day trips depart from the village on large electric boats with a warm indoor area – which could be preferable in freezing winter weather.

We opted for the more intrepid option, a RIB safari, which enabled us to get closer to the cliff edges (useful as visibility wasn’t great while we were in town); but the howling wind did get a little too bracing after three hours, even with over five layers of clothing on!

If you’re prone to cold, the electric boat is probably the better option – but if you think you can deal with a few hours of being in the great outdoors in sub-Arctic conditions, a RIB tour might be an adrenaline-boosting adventure. 

Whatever your activity of choice, rest your head at Fretheim Hotel , which boasts a fine-dining restaurant serving delectable vegetarian, fish and meat courses; I had a beetroot salad, multi-layered vegetable terrine and a decadent white chocolate mousse.

Rooms at Fretheim are the perfect antidote to warm up from the cold, with comfortable beds, period furniture, heating control and roll-top baths.

Flåm’s the perfect mix between an immersive fjord experience and being relatively easy to access, thanks to its rail connections to Bergen and Oslo.

In the summer, cruises and daytrippers frequent the city in their hordes, but in the winter months, Flåm remains a well-kept secret.

Trondheim’s landmarked by Trondheimsfjorden, which is the third-largest fjord in Norway. Like other destinations around Norway, the landscape comes alive in Trondheim with a blanket of snow and a dramatic backdrop of ice.

The temperatures may be freezing, but the open sea fjords are ideal for cruising and sightseeing. In the surrounding countryside, you can enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing and skiing; Bymarka has more than 100 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails. 

If the weather’s not on your side when you’re in Trondheim, the city encompasses several indoor attractions, such as the Norwegian University of Science and Technology Museum and the Trondheim Art Museum. 

It’s also famous for the Nidaros Cathedral; an ancient church with a rich history.

Dating back to the 11th century, it’s a must-see attraction and is beautifully illuminated at night. Inside, you can marvel at the Crown Regalia. 

Sogndal’s stunning fjords are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls. 

In winter, the fjords are peaceful and quiet, with only the sound of the wind and occasional cracking of ice breaking the silence.

The snow and ice create a stunning contrast against the dark waters of the fjords, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Visitors to Sogndal can go on a fjord cruise or kayak to witness the beauty of the landscape from the water.

Or, try your luck at cross-country skiing or snowshoeing to explore the fjords and the surrounding mountains.

Northern lights tours, Sami culture, Arctic voyages…. Tromsø in winter is famous for a multitude of reasons, and fjords are often left off the list.

While Tromsø doesn’t sit amongst fjords itself, there are some nearby; and, like most other fjords in Norway, these are visitable throughout the year.

You’ll want to don some waterproof, thermal gear – you’re in the Arctic, after all – but Northern Yachting offers cruises ploughing into the fjords, with a commentary about the city and its surrounding nature as you go.

The fjord destinations further south are probably more immersive, but Tromsø’s bursting with fun activities to try in the winter season – so if you’re looking for somewhere where you can enjoy all of Norway’s main winter draws (skiing, northern lights , reindeer , koselig culture) AND see some fjords, Tromsø delivers.

If one of your main reasons for visiting Tromsø is to see the rugged fjords, I’d recommend avoiding the polar night season; this is when the sun doesn’t really rise, meaning that the fjords will be in near total darkness. For a good mix of dark nights and some light in the day, try Tromsø in February.  

The most budget-friendly way to visit Tromsø is to fly into Bergen or Oslo and transfer to Tromsø airport (we flew from Bergen). There are direct flights to the Arctic city from European destinations, but they’re pricey!

Things to do on the Norway fjords in winter

Jump into the snow at ski resorts and warm up in saunas. Head out on fishing trips and dine on freshly-caught seafood for lunch. Unleash your inner adventurer by taking a boat tour and then relax with a glass of wine at a homely hotel bar. Here are the best things to do on the Norwegian fjords in winter.

Sightseeing

There are few places quite as scenic as the Norwegian fjords, both in winter and summer.

So, obviously, one of the best things to do in the area is to see the stunning fjords themselves!

Sightseeing means something different for everyone, depending on your unique interests and abilities. It might mean layering up and sitting on the side of a fjord, hot chocolate in hand, or taking a boat tour to see the glacial rock formations up close.

With hotels in some of the most beautiful destinations in Norway, you won’t need to worry too much about factoring sightseeing into your winter itinerary – you’ll encounter breathtaking natural beauty every time you look out of a window.

Norway’s cod is something to shout about; the nation of Portugal , some 1,600 miles (2,600 kilometres) to the south, is obsessed with the stuff!

But it’s not just cod that you’ll find in the waters.

Fish for salmon, catch a gunard or look for crayfish on a fishing trip. Or, if you prefer your seafood already sauteed and served, ask for local specials in any restaurant.

Don’t worry if you don’t eat fish – I’m actually vegetarian (and am going off my partner’s and other travel mates’ word on how delectable the seafood was!), and I dined on fresh vegetables cooked in a variety of creative ways, crusty bread, deliciously doughy pasta and sweet and creamy desserts.

While Norway’s fjord landscape entirely alters in the winter months, some things never change – you’ll nearly always find someone tackling the fjord waters, even on the coldest of days!

We were invited on a kayaking trip in Fjaerland, and while I was enticed, the unruly waters when we were there meant that it was a no-go – at least for a bunch of novices.

“You’re unlucky though”, we were told by virtually everyone we met in the village. “The weather’s not usually this wild!”.

Floating saunas

The tumultuous waters also meant that floating saunas were off the cards for our Norwegian fjords trip – but luckily, Jarle, the owner of Fjaerland Guiding, had a land-based alternative for us to try.

“You’re welcome to take a dip in the water too”, he told us. “It might not be as easy as in the floating sauna, though”.

The floating sauna bobs on the water’s surface, with a platform outside and a ladder descending into the chilly depths below.

After a stint in the land-based alternative, watching the floating sauna sway on the waves, I stepped out and gingerly stepped toward the water’s edge, feeling the bite of the cold air on my skin.

Unfortunately, the land-based sauna was just a little too far from the water, giving my body the chance to cool down considerably and beg for another stint in 65°C+ temperatures before I reached the water’s edge.

But if I’d been in the floating sauna, I’d have definitely gone in , I told myself.

Snowshoeing

Our feet crunched in the snow as we stepped, one foot in front of the other, up the mountain. With snowshoes, our feet stayed gripped onto icy terrain and ensured that we didn’t fall into the waist-height levels of snow.

We hiked to the epic Stegastein Viewpoint close to Flåm, the ideal place to see the fjords in their entirety, visualising how they were made by glaciers retreating, carving the landscape as they leave a comparative ribbon of water in their wake.

The tour starts and leaves from Flåm, bypassing some of the nearby villages before starting a climb up the mountains.

Involving just one hour and 30 minutes of hiking, with a stop for Norway’s famous hot blackcurrant drink, it’s a fantastic way to explore the snowscapes without getting too cold.

Stay in cosy hotels

Denmark may have hygge , but Norway has koselig ; a concept surrounding cosiness in the cold and dark winter months.

As we walked into Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel , past bookshelves groaning with literature and toward a table accommodating eight slices of raspberry cake, with a candlelit view of the darkening fjords out the window, I finally started to understand this concept.

Fretheim Hotel is larger than the intimate Fjaerland Fjordstove, but its floor-to-ceiling windows and atmospheric bar offer guests the chance to witness fjord scenery while remaining toasty.

These cosy hotels, restaurants and bars are dotted throughout fjord Norway (and indeed, the entire country), and offer the ideal bases for winter trips to the country.

Norway fjords in winter FAQs

Can you visit the fjords in norway in winter.

Yes, it’s certainly possible to visit the Norwegian fjords in winter! The fjords are covered with snow, with the mountains providing breathtaking backdrops.

It’s a unique and magical experience and fewer tourists offer an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the fjords in a peaceful setting.

What is the best time of year to visit the Norwegian fjords?

The best time to visit the Norwegian fjords is usually thought to be from May to September when the weather is pleasant and the days are long.

However, the gorgeous snowy landscapes of the dramatic fjords, plus opportunities for winter sports makes them an ideal place to visit in winter too! 

Are fjords frozen in winter?

Some parts of the fjords can freeze in winter, depending on the location and temperature. However, the main fjords are usually navigable throughout the year, so you can explore the waters by boat even in the coldest months! 

How cold are the Norwegian fjords?

The temperature in the Norwegian fjords – and in the entire Nordic region – varies depending on the location and season. In winter, it can drop below freezing, with average temperatures ranging from -3°C to 5°C.

Can you cruise the fjords in winter?

Fjord cruises are available throughout the winter months, and there are usually fewer crowds; although some cruises don’t run in the winter season. However, cruising the fjords is a unique experience that offers a different perspective on the fjords, with snow-capped mountains and frozen waterfalls providing a magical backdrop to the cruise.

Are the Norwegian fjords worth seeing?

The fjords are among the best places to visit in Norway , offering stunning views of dramatic landscapes that are unlike anywhere else in the world. The fjords provide a unique cultural heritage, with traditional fishing villages and scenic hiking trails. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Can you see the northern lights from the fjords in Norway? 

The northern lights, which are solar activity in the earth’s atmosphere, are sometimes visible from the Norwegian fjords; however, it largely depends on how far north you are.

There’s a chance of seeing the northern lights in the Norwegian winter night sky wherever you are in the country, but it’s much more likely that you’ll see them in Tromsø. 

Are you ready to visit the Norwegian fjords in winter?

Don’t let cold weather and shorter days put you off the Norwegian fjords in December, January or February! Whether you fancy cross-country skiing through fluffy snow or exploring the Arctic region you’ll have an incredible winter adventure in this part of the world.

Norway comes alive in the colder months, and if you’re searching for somewhere to embrace winter, then head to this Scandinavian nation! 

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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Visiting Norway? Enjoy the fjords but leave the walruses alone

People in the Norwegian Arctic archipelago of Svalbard called authorities when they saw a man climb onto an ice floe to approach a resting walrus. The tourist was fined about $1,100.

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Flight information

Changes in our traffic plan for winter 2024-2025.

We have updated our traffic plan for the winter season. See the instructions here if your travel plans are affected due to changes. 

Finnair has updated its traffic plan for the winter season on 30 October 2024 – 29 March 2025. The changes include flight cancellations and schedule changes. We are sorry about the harm and inconvenience these changes may cause to your travel plans.

If there are any further changes to the traffic plan, we will communicate about them directly to the affected customers. You can check available destinations and flights on our booking engine .

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• 2024 Europe Triathlon Junior Cup Caorle 10 - 12 May, 2024 Caorle, Italy
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