Plan Your Trip to Norway
Top Things to Know
Photo: Per Eide - VisitNorway.com
Plan Your Trip To Norway
Norway is a country of dramatic contrasts, deep fjords, Arctic Northern Lights, and endless summer days. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a two-week adventure, this guide gives you a complete overview of when to go, what to see, and how to make the most of your journey through Norway.
Ready to tailor your own itinerary? Our team at Nord DMC designs every trip personally, from scenic self-drives to luxury Arctic escapes.
When To Visit
Seasons at a Glance
Photo: Ismaele Tortella - Visit Norway
WINTER
December - March
Highlights
Northern Lights / Aurora
Snow activities
Snow & Ice hotels
Arctic Wlidlife Safaris
Suggested places
Tromsø
Lofoten Islands
Alta
Svalbard
Photo: Øyvind Heen - fjords.com
SPRING
March - May
Highlights
Blossoming
Calm fjords
Waterfalls
Snow-capped peaks
Constitution day / National day
Suggested places
Hardangerfjord
Bergen
Flåm
South & East Norway
Photo: CH - VisitNorway.com
SUMMER
June - August
Highlights
Midnight sun
Fjord cruises
Water activities
Hiking & Biking
Road trips
Suggested places
North West Region (Ålesund, Geiranger, Molde)
Bergen
Lofoten Islands
Voss, Flåm & Balestrand
Photo: Didrick Stenersen VisitOslo
AUTUMN
September - November
Highlights
Harvest season
Culinary highlights
Hiking & Biking
Cultural events
Less crowded
Suggested places
Geiranger - after the crowds,
Oslo,
Kristiansand,
Trondheim
Every season in Norway has its own magic: summer for long days and road trips, winter for auroras and Arctic adventures, and spring and autumn for peaceful travel with vivid scenery.
Regional differences matter. The north is best suited for summer and winter, when daylight and weather are more predictable. Spring and autumn can be beautiful but often bring fast-changing weather, making it harder to plan ahead, and you can end up in a situation where winter activities are not available because there is not enough snow, and summer activities are not available because of sub-zero temperatures and sporadic snowfall.
Further south, many regions are arguably at their best in spring and fall, with blossoming trees, national celebrations, and a mild climate. You’ll also avoid the largest crowds in popular destinations such as Flåm and Geiranger, while they remain spectacular throughout summer.
Autumn is an especially rewarding time to explore Norway’s culinary highlights and urban culture in cities like Oslo, Kristiansand, or Trondheim. Outdoor activities are still possible until late September, and often through November, though the western coast has a higher chance of rain during this time, the south and east can have relatively stable temperatures and pleasant conditions for being outdoors.
Everything can be planned for and customized based on your preferences.
How Long To Stay
Short trips
We recommend planning at least three days to truly experience Norway.
With this duration, you could enjoy a route such as Oslo–Flåm–Bergen, traveling by scenic train through the mountain region while exploring Norway’s two largest cities.
This is an ideal introduction to the country’s culture and landscapes — compact, diverse, and full of contrasts between the city, fjord, and mountains.
No Single Formula - Every Journey Is Personal
There is no one ideal trip length for visiting Norway. It all depends on your interests, travel pace, and preferred way of getting around.
Some travelers enjoy covering more ground with scenic train rides and short domestic flights, while others prefer a slower rhythm with time to linger in a few regions.
Whether you have three days or three weeks, the key is to design an itinerary that matches your style and comfort — and that’s where our team can help.
How To Get Around
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Norway offers a reliable and well-connected public transportation system, featuring excellent rail links in the south and a network of national and regional bus routes that make getting around easy.
SELF-DRIVE & Private transfers
Many travelers choose to rent a car for the freedom and flexibility it provides, or taking the premium route with having private transfers and private drivers - allowing them to explore at their own pace, set their own schedule, and reach hidden gems far beyond the main routes.
Ferry & cruise
With nearly the entire country lined by coastline, ferries and fjord cruises offer a scenic and practical way to travel - letting you experience Norway’s shores and waterways as part of the journey itself.
FLIGHTS
Norway is well connected by air, with numerous small and mid-sized airports offering frequent domestic flights operated by both national and international carriers. It’s the fastest way to travel across the country, but fares can be high in busy periods.
Transportation options in Norway are varied, and in most regions you’ll have more than one way to get around.
Many travelers choose a mix of trains, cars, ferries, and flights to suit their schedule, comfort, and style of travel.
We would be delighted to plan your trip with you.
Where To Go Based on Interests
Frequently Asked Questions about Planning a Trip to Norway
When is the best time to visit Norway?
Every season in Norway has its own charm. Summer brings long days and midnight sun, winter offers snow, northern lights, and Arctic adventures, while spring and autumn are quieter with colorful scenery, local festivals, and fewer crowds.
How many days should I plan for my trip?
It depends on your pace and interests. Three to five days gives you a taste of Norway’s highlights, while 10 to 14 days allows for deeper exploration, from fjords to the Arctic north.
What is the best way to get around Norway?
Norway offers modern transport options — scenic trains, reliable buses, car rentals, ferries, and domestic flights. Many travelers combine them for flexibility and variety.
Do I need a visa to visit Norway?
Norway is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of the EU and many other countries can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days. Always check entry requirements before traveling.
Is Norway expensive?
Norway is known for high living standards, but offers great value through quality experiences. Traveling off-season, planning early, and mixing local stays with premium experiences can help balance cost and comfort.
Is it better to travel by train, car, or plane?
There’s no single best option — it depends on your route and preferences. Trains and ferries are scenic, driving gives full freedom, and flights are time-efficient for long distances. Most visitors choose a mix that suits their travel style.