Best time to travel to Norway

Location

Climate

Norway is a dream destination for nature lovers, thanks to its spectacular scenery, majestic fjords and northern lights.

The different seasons in Norway and their advantages

Like any other country, Norway's climate varies throughout the year. Depending on when you decide to go, you'll be able to enjoy different activities and landscapes.

Spring (April to June)

Spring is an excellent time to discover Norway in all its splendor. The days gradually lengthen, and nature wakes up after a long winter. Temperatures begin to rise, generally fluctuating between 10 and 20°C. It's also the start of the season for festivals and cultural events. Here are some of the highlights of spring in Norway:

• Flowering fruit trees in southern regions;
• Migratory birds returning to nest;
• The chance to hike in the mountains without the summer crowds;
• Lower accommodation rates than in high season.

Summer (July and August)

Summer is the most popular time to visit Norway. The days are long, even endless north of the Arctic Circle, with the midnight sun. Temperatures can reach 25°C or more, offering ideal conditions for swimming and outdoor activities. However, this is also the period when tourist numbers are highest, leading to higher prices and limited availability of accommodation. The advantages of summer in Norway include:

• Spectacular fjords and waterfalls;
• The midnight sun, a unique phenomenon to observe;
• A variety of outdoor cultural and musical events;
• Water sports such as kayaking and sailing.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is an often overlooked season for visiting Norway, yet it offers many opportunities. Autumn colors create picturesque landscapes, and tourists are fewer and farther between. Temperatures gradually drop, fluctuating between 5 and 15°C. Some autumn highlights in Norway:

• Flamboyantly colored forests;
• Harvesting local fruits and vegetables, such as apples and berries;
• A calmer, more peaceful atmosphere, ideal for hiking and relaxation;
• The first aurora borealis appear in the north of the country.

Winter (December to March)

Winter is synonymous with snow, cold and long nights in Norway, with temperatures dropping to -20°C in some regions. However, this period also offers a unique experience, with specific activities such as skiing, snowmobiling or ice fishing. Here are just a few of the advantages of winter in Norway:

• Winter sports, such as downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling;
• The Oslo Christmas market and other winter festivals;
• The aurora borealis, a breathtaking natural spectacle;
• The possibility of sleeping in an ice hotel or a traditional wooden hut.

Major cultural events and public holidays in Norway

As well as natural attractions, Norway also offers a rich cultural heritage and numerous events throughout the year. Here are some of the most important events not to be missed:

• May 17, the national holidaywith parades, concerts and celebrations across the country;
• There Bergen International Festivala music and theater festival held in May or June;
• THE Midnight Sun Marathon in Tromsø in June, where runners take to the streets under the midnight sun;
• THE St. Olav Festival in Trondheim in July, dedicated to culture, history and religion;
• THE Norwegian Film Festival in Haugesund in August, showcasing Scandinavian cinema.

Low and high season in Norway

Norway's peak tourist season generally runs from June to August, with a significant increase in visitor numbers and accommodation rates. However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds and take advantage of more affordable prices, the low season (September to May) could be an interesting option. Bear in mind that some attractions or activities may not be available during this period, so it's important to plan your trip according to your interests.

Immigration figures for Norway

In 2019, Norway will have approximately 746,700 immigrants out of a total population of 5.3 million, or almost 14% of the population. The main immigrant groups in Norway come from the following countries:

• Poland
• Lithuania
• Suede
• Somalia
• Pakistan

In recent years, Norway has seen a significant increase in the number of people entering its territory, not least due to the refugee crisis in Europe. In 2015, the country recorded a peak of over 31,000 asylum seekersThe number of asylum seekers is expected to rise to around 2,600 in 2019.

Reasons for immigration to Norway

Among the main reasons why people immigrate to Norway are :

• Family reunification
• The work
• Protection (asylum application)
• Education

Family reunification is the main reason for immigration to Norway, accounting for almost half of all residence permits issued. Economic immigrants, i.e. those who come to work, account for around a third of entries. Finally, asylum seekers and students make up 10% and 8% of immigrants respectively.

Most popular visas in Norway

Norway offers different types of visa, depending on the purpose of stay. The three main categories are :

• Schengen visa (type C) for short stays
• Temporary residence permit (type D) for long stays
• Work permits

Schengen visa (type C)

The Schengen visa allows nationals of non-Schengen countries to enter Norway for a short stay, generally up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is most commonly used by tourists, family visitors and participants in conferences or cultural events.

Temporary residence permit (type D)

For stays of over 90 days, a temporary residence permit is required. This type of visa is particularly popular with international students, seasonal workers and family members. According to statistics, around 17,000 temporary residence permits were issued in 2019.

Work permits

A work permit is required for non-EU nationals wishing to work in Norway. Skilled professionals and seasonal workers are the main beneficiaries of this type of visa. In 2019, almost 11,500 work permits were granted, the majority for jobs in the service, construction and industrial sectors.

International tourism in Norway: figures on the rise

Norway is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of foreign visitors every year. In 2019, the country recorded over 6.5 million international tourist arrivalsThis represents an increase of 2% over the previous year. Norway's main tourist markets are :

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• UNITED STATES
• France
• China

Foreign visitors are attracted by Norway's spectacular natural landscapes, such as fjords, mountains and northern lights. Favorite activities include hiking, skiing, fishing and wildlife watching.

Tourism in Norway: an important economic sector

Tourism accounts for around 4% of Norwegian GDP and is a major source of income for many regions of the country. Around 167,000 people work in the travel and tourism industry in Norway, representing almost 6% of the total workforce. International tourism thus plays a crucial role in Norway's economic and social development.

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