Raw, breathtaking, dramatic – these are the few adjectives that the fjords of Norway are known for. In fact, these fascinating fjords are one of the main reasons people love visiting Norway. An outcome of the glacial activity during the Ice Age, the fjords are endowed with deep waters, cliffs, and gorgeous waterfalls. The most famous fjords of Norway are Geirangerfjord, Lysefjord, Nærøyfjord, Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord, and more. Cruising is one of the best ways to enjoy the view of the fjords, although hiking, road trips, canoeing, and kayaking are some other ways of exploring this natural wonder. Whichever way you choose to visit, it is important to know the best time to visit Norwegian fjords.
Seasonal Breakdown
The Norwegian fjords transform with each season, and the place holds a magic in every season. Here is a detailed account on what you can expect while exploring the fjords of Norway during the four seasons of the year.
Spring (March to May)
Temperature: 2-degree C to 12-degree C
Spring is when the climate is transitioning from cold winters to warm summers. The snow on the mountains starts melting during this time, and you will get to see flowers bloom all over the place. The melting snow gives birth to some incredibly beautiful waterfalls. Along with the flora, fauna also comes alive during this season. You will get to see the sight of birds, puffins, whales, seals, dolphins, and reindeer after the long and snowy winters. Although it is not cruise season yet, you will find smaller cruise packages that take you on a tour of the fjords.
Best Things to Do: Spring gives you the benefits of both winter and summer. In the early springtime, you will get to see some snow-covered peaks and may also get the chance to see the northern lights. On the other hand, late spring makes it a great time to go hiking and enjoy the wonderful blooming landscapes of the fjords. Going on a scenic journey on the Flam Railway, trying waterfall abseiling, and exploring the fjord villages are some of the best things to do in Norway in spring season.
Summer Season (June to August)
Temperature: 10-degree C to 20-degree C
Summers are the most popular time to explore the Norwegian fjords, thanks to the long daylight hours and the perfect weather. Due to the ideal climatic conditions, all the attractions in the area are open during this time of the year. While visiting the Norwegian fjords in summer, you will get to experience something called the midnight sun, as the sun does not set till late in the night. This is the best time for cruising, and you will find plenty of Oslo cruises during this time of the year. Most cruises have port visits giving you the chance to explore the many attractions that each one of them offers.
Best Things to Do: Norway is one of the most popular European cruise destinations in summer. But apart from cruising, hiking is another one of the things you must do in the Norwegian fjords in summer. The most popular hikes here are Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock, Trolltunga, etc. Glacier hiking and national parks are also something to look forward to. Each of the hiking trails give you an incredible view of the fjords, including its mountains, villages, and waterfalls. Summer is also a great time to indulge in kayaking, rafting, canyoning, fishing, whale watching, etc. You must also visit the Viking sites, explore the museums, and attend the local festivals to understand the culture of the place. Coastal villages like Flam, Alesund, and Bergen are also worth visiting.
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Featured Autumn (September to November)
Temperature: 5-degree C to 10-degree C
Autumn brings with it cool weather, peace, and serenity in the Norwegian fjords, thanks to the departing summer crowd. The fjord landscape takes on a surreal appearance with the foliage turning into bright gold, orange, and red. As the tourist crowds are fewer, it is a great time to explore the place in peace. Whichever activity you choose, you will be able to enjoy it without the presence of too many people around you. Due to less demand, you would also get good deals and discounts on accommodation, tours, rentals, and more. Autum is also the cheapest month to go on a cruise in Norway.
Best Things to Do: If you are not fond of crowds but still want to wander around the landscapes of Norway, autumn is the best season for hiking. The trails are quieter, and the autumn foliage is nothing less than breathtaking. The best places for hiking in this season are Romsdalseggen Ridge, Trolltunga, Kjerag, and Preikestolen. Cycling, kayaking, fishing, surfing, rafting, rock climbing, ziplining, etc., are a few other outdoor activities to try in this season. This is also the best season to enjoy a warm sauna experience near the fjords.
Winter (November to February)
Temperature: 0-degree C to –8-degree C
Cool, undisturbed, and ethereal, the winter landscape in the Norwegian fjords is nothing less than magical. With the temperature dipping below freezing point, the entire place is covered with a thick blanket of snow, offering a wonderful opportunity for winter photography. Winter is the low season, so you would not see many tourists here. Moreover, with an unpredictable climate, several attractions and activities are closed during this time of the year. But winter also gives you the opportunity to take in the serene atmosphere and gorgeous beauty of the place. Moreover, it is budget-friendly to visit the Norwegian fjords in winter.
Best Things to Do: Cruising in Norway is limited during the winter months, although you would find some cruises in Tromso and Bergen. The best thing to do here in the winter season is see the ethereal Northern lights. This is also the time to indulge in a host of winter activities like snowshoeing, winter hiking, skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, snow rafting, and dog sledding. Winter is the perfect time to visit some amazing indoor attractions like Flam Railway Museum, The Norwegian Fjord Centre, Norwegian Glacier Museum, Magic Ice Bar, Hanseatic Museum, KODE Art Museums, and more.
Important Travel Tips for Visiting Norwegian Fjords
Whichever season you plan to visit, there are some important things that you need to know before you go.
- If you are planning to visit during the summer season, you need to make the bookings as early as possible. The tourist demand is quite high during the summer months, so you must book flights, accommodations, tour packages, etc., at least 3-4 months before traveling to the place in summers.
- This is also the most important Norwegian fjords cruise tips. Norway cruises fill up fast in summer season, so you must book well in advance. The same rule applies to rental cars and scenic train tickets.
- Renting a car to drive yourself around would be a good idea, as public transportation does not extend to remote areas.
- However, if you are visiting during the winter months, remember that many roads close due to the weather conditions.
- When it comes to packing, you must be prepared to face all kinds of weather conditions. The truth is that the climate on the fjords changes quickly. You may experience warm sunshine, chilly winds, snow, rain, and fog within a week itself. The smartest way is to pack clothes that can be used as layers.
- Thermals are a must during winters and shoulder seasons. Apart from this, waterproof pants and jacket, hiking shoes, gloves, hat/cap, etc., are also somethings you must carry.
- Do not forget to carry your sunscreen just because Norway has pleasant to cool climate. The sun can be pretty strong even on cloudy days.
- Carry the local currency (Norwegian Krone – NOK) for small purchases and while exploring the remote areas where credit cards may not be accepted.
- If you are cruising on the Norwegian fjords, plan your itinerary as per the ports you would be visiting.
Conclusion
The best time to visit the Norwegian fjords would depend on your interests and what you want to see and do during your holiday. Every season brings a different side of the Norwegian fjords, each one interesting like the next. As you now know all about Norwegian fjords travel seasons, what are you waiting for? Pick a season and get ready to discover the enchanting fjords of Norway.
