Norway

Climate in Norway

Despite its northerly location, the coastal climate in Norway is temperate, thanks to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream flowing along its coast. Summer, between late June and early August, brings long, hot days with temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C), and sea temperatures averaging a comfortable 64°F (18°C). Even in the north of Norway, summer temperatures rise to 77°F (25°C) or more. However, summer weather can be changeable in Norway and the summer months can be wet.

In winter much of Norway is snow-clad with very low temperatures in the north and the low-lying inland regions of the south. Temperatures can drop below -40°F (-40°C). In contrast, the coast enjoys mild winters, although gales and rain are common. In spring, between May and mid-June, Norway is at its prettiest, with everything coming to life and blossoming and snow melt swelling the waterfalls.

June and July is often considered the best time to visit Norway because of the warm weather and the long days, which see sunlight until nearly 10pm. These peak summer months are also the most crowded in Norway. March is the best time to go skiing in Norway, and May and September offer nice weather and slightly smaller crowds. The Northern Lights are famously elusive and unpredictable, but there is a possibility of seeing them any time between late September and March.