The Seasons in Norway
The four seasons in Norway are very distinct, and each have their own unique personality
Norway is extra special in that it also has a Northern Lights season that lasts from October through to the end of March. Some say you really haven’t seen all of Norway until you have experienced each of its seasons.
The entire coastline is warmed by the Gulf Stream, providing most of southern Norway with a temperate climate with dry and cold winters and comfortably warm summers.
Due to the long distances in Norway, the climate and seasons vary quite a lot between regions. While spring is blossoming in the south, winter could still be going strong in the north. This is why you can always experience more than just one season while travelling in Norway.
Travel through the seasons with Hurtigruten
The on-board activities, restaurant menus and shore excursions change according to the time of year and the waters we sail in. Each season brings with it new opportunities to experience a Hurtigruten voyage in an entirely different light, both literally and figuratively.
Summer - June, July and August
Through the summer months, visitors can expect a special phenomena: The Midnight Sun. 24 hours of daylight above the Arctic Circle gives you more time to explore and experience Norway. Other highlights include:
- Melting water means powerful and majestic waterfalls
- Exciting excursions in stunning sceneries; boat rides, sea eagle safaris, kayaking and hiking
- Special sailings into three pristine and beautiful fjords
- Lush landscape and mild temperatures
Keep reading: Summer Cruises in Norway
Autumn - September, October and November
Autumn is a great time to discover the Norwegian coast, as summer crowd disappears and tranquil days on board make it easier to enjoy serene sailings in spectacular scenery:
- Sail into enchanting fjords like Trollfjord and Hjørundfjord
- Enjoy fresh locally sourced cuisine, delivered directly to the ship
- Crystal clear crisp air, and chances to see Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle
- The best season for hiking
- Experience coastal Norway at its most colourful
Keep reading: Autumn Cruises in Norway
Winter - December, January and February
Sailing with Hurtigruten in winter, away from light pollution, provides the best and most reliable chances for experiencing the Northern Lights. Other highlights:
- Discover wild and untamed Norwegian winter scenery, and snow-covered landscapes
- Explore the vast wilderness by snowmobile, dog sled or cross-country skiing
- Enjoy the cold, crisp air and Arctic light in different colours. Experience polar nights above the Arctic Circle
- The Hurtigruten Northern Lights Promise
Keep reading: Winter Cruises in Norway
Spring - March, April and May
Spring gives you three seasons in one journey. Enjoy summer-like weather in Bergen, spring along the way, and full winter above the Arctic Circle.
- Experience the return of the light and vitality along the coast
- Longer days give you more time to see and experience the white wonderland in the north. March and April are also the best months for snow north of the Arctic Circle
- Prime time for ice and sea fishing
- There are still chances of seeing the Northern Lights
Keep reading: Spring Cruises in Norway
Related cruises
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12 days Regular departuresThe Classic Roundtrip Voyage
- Discover our full scenic route with 34 ports visited twice, northbound and southbound, allowing you to really get to know the heart and soul of Norway’s coastline
- Bask in spectacular scenery any season of the year as we sail past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains
- Spend half your voyage on an Arctic tour of Norway, maximising your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in winter, or enjoying 24 hours of daylight under the Midnight Sun in summer
- Take your pick from seven to nine optional hikes and the complete list of optional seasonal excursions – more than 70 in total – to enhance your coastal experience
Price from1979 € -
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6 days Regular departuresClassic Voyage South
- Be treated to some of the best scenery of the Norwegian coast, including Senja, the Vesterålen archipelago, the stunning Lofoten Islands, and the Helgeland Coast
- Keep on the lookout for whales and a range of Arctic birds, including the white-tailed sea eagle as well as many migratory species
- The ship may also visit Trollfjord between May and October on this voyage, entering the narrow fjord and performing a 180-degree manoeuvre
- Join two optional hikes and up to 20 optional seasonal excursions, including a tour of the Lofoten Islands by boat or a horseback ride to a picturesque beach
Price from1148 € -
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7 days Regular departuresClassic Voyage North
- Enjoy visiting a range of coastal communities, including a number of charming cities, towns, and villages
- Sail to world-famous Geirangerfjord in summer from June to August or to Hjørundfjord from September to October
- Cross the Arctic Circle for an Arctic tour of Norway to hunt for the Northern Lights in winter, and enjoy round-the-clock daylight under the Midnight Sun in summer
- Choose between four to six optional hikes and from up to 50 optional seasonal excursions to add more adventure to your voyage
Price from1346 €
