Explore the Norwegian Winter

Weather in Norway in Winter: How Cold Does It Get?

Norway is a long and narrow country, meaning climate can vary significantly depending on whether you’re in the north or south. While it’s often still warm enough for T-shirts in southern Norway in September, the same time of year can bring snowfall in the north.

Distance from the sea also plays an important role in how cold it gets. In inland Northern Norway, particularly in Finnmark and around Kirkenes, winter temperatures can drop to as low as –30°C.

Along the coast, however, winters are milder, even well above the Arctic Circle. Thanks to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, coastal areas in Northern Norway often see average winter temperatures of around –6°C. This means that popular destinations such as Narvik, Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands are much less cold in winter than many visitors expect, even though temperatures occasionally drop below –20°C.

In Southern Norway, winters are generally milder. Coastal destinations such as Kristiansand and Stavanger rarely see temperatures below –10°C, with average winter temperatures closer to 0°C. Overall, the average winter temperature in Northern Norway is around –7°C, while Southern Norway tends to average just below 0°C.

Taking Flåm as an example - a popular year-round tourist destination located in the western (and central) part of Norway - you can in December expect an average winter temperature of -1°C. However, conditions can vary widely, with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 5°C. So, be prepared and pack both wool layers and an umbrella… This brings us to the next important consideration when planning your winter trip to Norway.

What to Wear During Winter in Norway?

The key to a successful winter holiday in Norway is, without a doubt, staying warm. If you’re cold, no experience feels enjoyable. Locals are experts when it comes to dressing for the cold, and wool is their secret weapon. This means wearing wool base layers closest to the skin.

Don’t make the mistake of arriving without a proper winter jacket and solid winter boots. Wherever you plan to go in Norway, you’ll need layers of wool, a thick and wind proof outer jacket, winter boots, and accessories like a hat, scarf, and gloves. For an extra level of readiness, consider bringing ice grips for your shoes, as it sometimes can be very icy and challenging to move around.

Where to Go in Norway in Winter?

If snow is at the top of your wish list, there are certain destinations in Norway you should consider. In southern and western Norway, a good rule of thumb is that the further you go inland, the more snow you’re likely to find. Norway’s highest peaks can be found in the Jotunheimen National Park, a heaven for winter explorers.

If you’re dreaming of snowy landscapes and Norway’s stunning fjords, the Flåm area offers the best of both worlds. You can choose your base depending on what you prioritize: Flåm is ideal if fjords and scenic excursions is your main focus, while Myrkdalen, just a short drive away, is perfect for those seeking a winter wonderland with world-class skiing.

Compared to many other winter destinations in Norway, Myrkdalen stands out with its remarkable snowfall. Receiving an average of 710 cm of snow annually and experiencing around 58 snowfall days each year, it offers some of the most reliable snow conditions in the country, making it a top choice for skiers and snowboarders seeking powder.

Whether you’re an experienced skier chasing fresh powder or a beginner in need of lessons, Myrkdalen is an excellent destination. Meanwhile, Flåm offers easy access to iconic experiences like the Flåm Railway and the scenic Fjord Cruise, making it a great choice if you want to combine snowy adventures with picturesque, fairy-tale-looking landscapes.