How to Dress for Norway in Summer?

Regardless of the season of your trip, don’t think of traveling light! Even in summer, temperatures can vary widely from one place to another and day to day.

Your attire will obviously differ depending on whether you’re admiring the midnight sun near the Arctic Circle or strolling through the southern cities, be it the capital Oslo or lovely coastal towns like Stavanger or Bergen. And that’s not all!

Summer temperatures in Oslo can soar up to 30°C with the weather blessing you with sunny days. Time for shorts and t-shirts! Further west, the Gulf Stream adds complexity, bringing warmth… and rain. Time for raincoats!

Logically, as you move north, it gets cooler: no more than 19°C in August in Trondheim – perfect for hiking or wandering around the 130 km long Trondheimfjorden.

The weather is also mild, with temperatures sometimes reaching 25°C in the famous Lofoten Islands, which are even further north. They are especially delightful in summer, with light clothing, all thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream, the North Atlantic Drift, and the Norwegian Current.

It’s a different story (and a different backpack) if your trip to Norway takes you to Lapland. A warm sweater or a fleece jacket is a must since temperatures don’t exceed 16°C during the (long) day.

Generally, the weather can change rapidly in Norway. Always pack t-shirts and warmer clothes, and most importantly, a windproof raincoat and sturdy shoes. But don’t forget your swimsuit, cap, and sunscreen!

If hiking is on your itinerary, the Norwegian Trekking Association can assist by publishing a list of clothing and equipment to bring along.

Crossing the Lofoten Islands

Allow at least ten days to traverse these mountains with rugged terrain seemingly placed on the sea, in the polar region. This immersion into nature takes you to explore the mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, as well as picturesque villages and white sandy beaches.

The Lofoten Islands harbor many treasures, from Skokkvika bay to the ascent of Tindstinden, through the summit of Munkan which offers an extraordinary 360° view of the southern archipelago. As a bonus, some excursions can be done by sea kayak.

The Bessegen Ridge, in the Land of Giants

A trek in Jotunheimen National Park lets you discover this mountainous region of eastern Norway. It’s nicknamed “the home of the giants” as Norse mythology says that trolls (jotner in Norwegian) lived there. The park hosts some of Norway’s highest peaks, including the country’s highest point, Galdhøpiggen (2,469 m).

The area spans 3,500 km² and is best explored on foot, sometimes by ferry for crossings. A trek will inevitably lead you to the Bessegen ridge for a spectacular hike, suitable only for experienced hikers who aren’t afraid of heights!

From Lapland to the North Cape

Allocate two weeks for this trek in the far north of the country, combining hiking, canoeing, and riverside bivouacking. Experience wild nature as you traverse Lapland, the vast forests of Karelia, the taiga and canyons of Oulanka National Park, and finally the Finmark plateau, home to the Sami and reindeer herds.

August is the ideal time to traverse and reach the Arctic Circle, with temperatures around 13°C and seemingly endless days.

Spitsbergen, the Polar Bear Kingdom

Between Norway and Greenland, a trek on Spitsbergen Island (pointed mountain), the largest of the Svalbard archipelago, also appeals to lovers of wild nature. Venture further north to discover pristine mountains, silent expanses, and ice cliffs.

Note, trekking from the city of Longyearbyen requires the company of a professional guide, as this is the realm of the polar bear.

From Bergen to Balestrand, along the Sognefjord

Such a trek in southern Norway alternates between hiking and ferry crossings. Starting from the country’s second-largest city, Europe’s longest and deepest fjord stretches 204 km inland. The Sognefjord is an exceptional natural site, offering splendid panoramas from its heights, notably from the Raudmelen mountain summit.

This trek between two coastal cities also provides an immersion into Norwegian culture… and an effortless return journey on the Flåmsbana, considered one of the most beautiful train lines in the world.

Traveling to Norway in June or August?

Until mid-August, Norwegians are on vacation. While many head to southern Europe, others naturally stay in the country. Therefore, tourist areas, especially beach resorts like Skudeneshavn, Haugesund, Stavern, and Tønsberg remain busy. Perhaps a bit too much for your liking?

But the main local summer holiday period is July. Also known as Fellesferie, it can impact your stay in Norway: less frequent public transport, infrastructure work on roads and railways, closed shops and restaurants, higher plane and rental prices…

For a summer trip, you might be torn between June and August. If possible, June is actually a perfect month to visit Norway. The snow has melted, warmth has returned, and lush nature is in full bloom. Explore the majestic fjords, tourist routes and cruises, hikes in the Far North, and strolls in picturesque villages. For wild nature enthusiasts, you can spend entire days without encountering anyone. That said, it’s also possible in August.

A bonus for June: the grand celebration of Midsummer’s Eve with its massive bonfires celebrated throughout the country on the 23rd.

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