Lots of people dream of visiting Norway and the fjords in the winter, but it can be tricky to start planning. As I grew up by the beautiful fjords of Norway, I figured I would write this guide to visiting the “Norway fjords in winter”, as they are so popularly called, for anyone planning a trip!
There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the fjords during the winter months, and I cover them all in this guide. From where to stay and what to do to my best local tips – read this before you go!
The fjords are amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Norway with good reason. There is nothing quite like looking out over the fjords, regardless of the time of year you visit.
Visiting in the winter has its challenges, both relating to the weather and the limited opening hours. I don’t want you getting caught out in the cold (literally), or miss out on some of the main sights in the area because you didn’t do your research, so I hope this post is helpful!
Side note: In this guide I cover how to use the word ‘fjord’ in a sentence, to prevent you from being one of the many people calling it the ‘Norway fjords’ and so on. I know many of you dream of visiting fjord Norway in winter, and I strongly advise you to get it right when you speak to the locals.
Table of Contents
The Norwegian Fjords in Winter: 3 Things to Consider
Flåm, Aurland, Undredal, Gudvangen, Geiranger, Olden, Ålesund, Bergen and so on. There are several places of interest along the western fjords for tourists wanting to see the beautiful and dramatic landscape of the fjords.
Peak season for the area is in the summer months, but an increasing amount of people are booking their trips for the colder months of the year. After all, this is the land that inspired Disney’s Frozen!
There are a few things I highly recommend you be prepared for when planning a winter trip to Norway.
#1 Which winter month is best for visiting Norway?
If you’re looking to visit Norway during the winter months, there are pros and cons to consider for each month. From November to March, the amount of daylight decreases significantly, and from December to January, the holidays can be an important factor to consider.
Norway in December
December is the busiest time in Norway due to the Christmas holiday season. Hotels and flights tend to be more expensive, and the streets are filled with holiday lights and decorations. This is also the darkest time of year, with only around 4-5 hours of daylight. On the other hand, it’s a great time to take part in holiday festivities and get a glimpse of the traditional Norwegian Christmas spirit.
Visiting Norway for Christmas also includes limited opening hours and less activities being available, as essentially the whole country shuts down from the 23rd to the 27th of December to celebrate and eat Christmas food.
Norway in January
For those who don’t mind the cold and lack of daylight, January can be a great month to visit Norway. Not only is it the most affordable time of year to visit the fjords, but it also offers spectacular views of the Northern Lights.
Of course, heading up north will highly increase your chances of seeing them, but in recent years I have even been lucky enough to see the northern lights in Bergen in the winter!
The snow-covered landscape makes it an ideal time for winter sports, such as skiing and snowmobiling, and the locals will be more than happy to provide you with tips and advice.
Norway in February
February is the best month to visit Norway if you’re looking for a balance between light and dark. This is the time when the days start to get longer and the winter weather starts to thaw. The snow-covered landscape is still beautiful, but you may find more activities available and prices are lower than in December and January.
Norway in March
March is the last winter month in Norway, and the days become longer and brighter. Although this is the best time to enjoy the outdoors, the temperatures can still be quite low. It’s also a great time to explore the many festivals and events, as well as the traditional Norwegian Easter celebrations.
No matter which winter month you decide to visit Norway, remember to think carefully about it. The beauty of the snow-covered landscape and the festive atmosphere are sure to make your trip memorable. But with shorter days, low temperatures, and the potential for holiday quietness, you’ll want to be prepared.
For more details, head to this guide: What is the best month to visit Norway?
#2 Visiting the fjords vs northern Norway
I know this is a guide to visiting the fjords of Norway in winter. However, since northern Norway is “more” of a winter destination, this is something you should consider properly before you book your trip.
The truth is that both areas are absolutely stunning in the winter, and it is truly a unique time of year to visit no matter where you go. But if your main reason for visiting Norway is seeing and photographing the northern lights, for example – you would be better off going up north.
The fjords of Norway are known for their breathtaking beauty all year round, but the winter brings a new level of beauty. With the snow-covered hillsides and frozen waters, the fjords take on an almost mythical quality that is truly captivating.
On the other hand, northern Norway has much more winter-focused activities such as dog-sledding and northern lights chasing. The northern lights are especially captivating during the winter months, and if you’re looking for a truly magical experience, then northern Norway is the place to be.
Destinations such as Tromsø, Lofoten and Alta are widely famous for their winter activities and charm.
No matter where you go in Norway in the winter, you are sure to be captivated. The fjords are absolutely stunning in the winter, and offer a unique beauty unlike anything else in the world. Northern Norway has more winter-focused activities such as dog-sledding and northern lights chasing, for people wanting to visit Norway in the winter. It’s really up to you, as both places have something special to offer during the winter months.
Note that the best time to visit Norway to see the northern lights can differ from year to year.
#3 Packing the right clothing
Packing for a winter trip to Norway can be tricky since the weather can be unpredictable and harsh. To make sure that you are prepared for any situation, it’s important to focus on layering.
Heavy-duty outerwear such as a waterproof shell and a warm jacket are essential for dealing with the cold temperatures and wet conditions. It’s also important to add in a few layers of warm clothing such as a wool sweater and long underwear to provide insulation and keep you comfortable.
It’s also important to pack the right accessories to stay warm. A warm hat and gloves are essential for keeping your head and hands warm. A heavy scarf is also really useful for providing additional coverage.
Adding in a pair of waterproof boots and insulated socks will help keep your feet warm and protected. By layering up and packing the right items, you can stay warm and enjoy your winter trip to Norway.
To make sure you’re ready for your winter trip to Norway, be sure to check out my packing guide for visiting Norway in the winter. It covers everything you need to know to make sure that you are prepared for your winter adventure in Norway!
Things to do by the Norway fjords in winter
On first glance, you are likely to get the impression that there isn’t much to do here in the winter. Apart from the stunning nature all covered in snow, the villages seem extremely quiet.
To most people, though, the main upside to visiting the fjords in the winter is exactly that – the serenity. But what exactly is there to do? First things first.
Most of the activities on and around the fjord run during the winter too, only on a smaller scale and with less frequent departures. This means that if you miss a departure, you might not have another option – so know your schedule in advance!
Personally, my favourite thing to do along the fjords in the winter months is to just enjoy the serenity of them, going on a nice walk with a hot coffee in hand.
Top things to do by the fjords in winter
Below are some of the most popular fjord activities along the Sognefjord and western region of Norway. Where applicable, I have made sure to point out how it differs from the summer offerings.
The Flåm Railway
The famous Flåm Railway, which has been the main attraction in the area for years, has 4 daily return departures in the Winter. This is as opposed to 10 daily departures in the summer.
The train journey is one of the most beautiful in the world, and is a must for visitors to the fjords. Many people arrive to the area by train from Bergen or Oslo, and the Flåm Railway will then be the last leg of your journey to get here.
I advise you to be aware of this before booking a return ticket on the train while you are here, as it isn’t necessary to travel on the Railway more than once.
Here’s how to get to the fjords from Bergen, and how to get there from Oslo!
Fjord Cruise
Now let’s get to the reason so many people are here – the fjords themselves!
The majestic fjords of western Norway are a must for anyone’s bucket list, and there is only one way to see them properly: by boat.
In the summer there are plenty of fjord cruise departures to choose from, but in the winter there aren’t that many options.
If you are starting your trip in Bergen, check out these Bergen fjord cruises before you go! In the winter it is especially important to book your cruise in advance, because there are limited departures.
If you are staying in the Flåm/Aurland area, there is usually 2 daily round trips available on the UNESCO Listed Nærøyfjord. Usually, it is by both bus and boat, with one leg of the journey taking you between Flåm and Gudvangen by boat, and then returning by bus.
Note that on holidays, such as Christmas Day and New Year’s, there is only 1 departure. As I mentioned above, note the timings and book in advance so you don’t miss out.
In Geiranger, the classic fjord cruise does not run during the winter months. However, if you are visiting Ålesund, you can go by fjord cruise to the Geirangerfjord and back.
FjordSafari
Another way to see the fjord up close is by going on a FjordSafari! These boat tours start and end in Flåm, and are very popular.
Make sure you book early, and I promise you won’t forget zooming through the fjords in a RIB boat with only a handful other travelers. The driver of the boat also doubles as your guide, and you will get as close to nature as possible with this tour!
Snowshoe Hiking
The company behind the FjordSafari offer a daily Snowshoe Hike in the mountains, where you will get to experience the Norwegian winter like never before! This is a 3-hour adventure starting and ending in Flåm, perfect for those that want to get some movement in during their fjord winter break.
You’ll get some great views of the fjords below during the hike!
More Norwegian Fjords Winter Activities
Some of the local museums are open year round, however with limited hours. The Flåm Railway museum, for example, has free entry, and is open for a few hours every day. It is well worth a visit, especially after you’ve gone on the Flåm Railway itself. You’ll learn about the railway’s history, and can shop some souvenirs while you’re at it!
The Aurland Shoe Museum also has daily opening hours (though limited). Here you can learn about the historic Aurland Shoe, aka the original pennyloafer!
Also, don’t miss out on a visit to the Stegastein Viewpoint! It is possible to drive there yourself, or book a spot on the daily tour from both Flåm and Aurland. This tour runs in the summer months, whilst this one also runs in the winter.
Norway fjords in winter: 5 Tips from a Local
Below are my top 5 tips for visiting the fjords of Norway during the winter months. In fact, these are appropriate regardless of where in Norway you go.
#1 Start your days early!
Most tours depart before midday, which is why many tourists find themselves disappointed after sleeping in. The only tours departing in the afternoon are during the shoulder months (March/October), the Flåm Railway’s later departures and the afternoon fjord cruise from Flåm, while most of the others depart around 11 am.
If you do go on an afternoon tour, keep in mind that daylight is limited. I have spoken to many travellers who have come back disappointed from a completely dark trip on the Flåm Railway, because they didn’t realise this when they booked it.
#2 Ask the locals about the roads!
Many roads, for example, the one to Stegastein Viewpoint, are not the most comfortable to drive. Ask around before venturing on a road you may not be ready for. As mentioned above, it’s better to be comfortably seated on an audio-guided bus tour than to brace the windy roads yourself.
#3 Do your research!
Visiting the Norwegian fjords in the winter can be a hassle if you are expecting all activities to be available to you at all times. All tours are running on a smaller scale, but if you come prepared – you’ll find that there are plenty of options.
You’ve done a great job already by reading this post!
#4 Layer up!
I shouldn’t have to say it, but dress well! It’s as cold as it looks. Layers and wool are your best friends.
#5 Plan for downtime
My final tip is to plan for downtime. There is a special serenity to the fjords in the winter, and it is difficult to explain. Come here in the winter months to relax, unwind, and just avoid the crowds.
Visiting Norway in the winter is a completely different experience to visiting in the busy summer months. The fjords and mountains are just as beautiful, but you avoid the struggle of thousands of tourists trying to get on the same boat, no one will be in the way of your photos, and the locals are probably a little nicer. In the winter we are reminded of how much we miss tourists, so take advantage of that!
Where to stay & Getting Around the Fjords in Winter
As mentioned above, there are several villages along the fjord, each with some great hotels and places to stay. Bear in mind though, that there are only a couple of hotels in each village. So I’ll repeat what I said about the tours above: book early!
Gudvangen, at the end of the Nærøyfjord (UNESCO World Heritage Site) boasts of a Viking-style ‘Fjordtel‘ by the docks, complete with Nordic symbols and Viking details.
Flåm has several places to choose from, and Aurland is where you’ll find the hotel I used to work at when I was younger. Lots of great options, in other words!
Flåm is the busiest village, all though in the Winter you won’t notice as much. There you will find the historic Fretheim Hotel, Flåmsbrygga Hotel and Flåm Marina & Apartments.
The public transport between the villages is limited in the winter. This website is where you will find travel routes and options on public transport. Don’t be surprised if you see both buses and ferries come up as options.
There are also local taxi companies available at your service. Aurland Taxi’s phone number is +47 901 30 808.
You may also rent a car upon arrival in Norway and drive yourself. There are some great places to stop on a road trip in Norway. Just make sure you can handle driving on the icy, winding Norwegian roads.
Norway Fjords Winter FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions I get about visiting the Norwegian fjords in winter. I have done my best to answer them! If you have a question not listed, leave it in a comment below.
Fjords are formed when a glacier moves through a valley, carving a deep, U-shaped valley in the bedrock. As the glacier melts and retreats, the remaining valley is filled with deep, cold ocean water. The resulting fjord is a long, narrow inlet of the sea surrounded by steep cliffs.
In December, Norway’s temperatures can range from freezing to cold. In most parts of the country, the average temperature is around 0°C (32°F). The northernmost areas of Norway can experience temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F) during the winter months.
In February, Norway typically experiences temperatures ranging from -2 to 3°C (28-37°F).
The average depth of the Norwegian fjords is between 600 and 700 meters (2,000 and 2,300 feet). The deepest fjord in Norway, the Sognefjord, is 1,308 meters (4,290 feet) deep. As a general rule, we say that the fjords are as deep as the surrounding mountains are tall.
Winter in Norway feels like it lasts forever. Officially, the winter months are December to February. But in reality, Norwegian winter lasts from November to March.
39 comments
THIS IS SO COOL! All caps most definitely necessary 😛 Mentally planning my next trip as I type this out! Great post xo, Ingrid
THANK YOU, INGRID (All caps necessary there too)! It’s so beautiful by the fjords, most definitely worth a visit both in the Winter and Summer! 🙂
I’m not a winter person at all, but norway looks SOOO beautiful in the winter. like beautiful enough that i could forget how much i hate winter for a little bit 🙂
I hear ya! The cold is horrible, but when you’re wrapped in a blanket in front of the fire looking out at the snow – I really enjoy it, haha 🙂
This post is fantastic!! Makes me think a winter getaway to Norway would be perfect for some relaxing around the busy holidays. The photos are gorgeous and it looks so serene! Awesome post. 🙂
Wow, thank you so much for saying that, Alexandra! 🙂 Norway is beautiful both in the Summer and Winter, but it is so important not to underestimate the off-season – it’s the perfect getaway from the crowds! Thanks again! 🙂
I’d love to do this! I’ve been to Oslo 🙂 #travel tuesday
Awesome, Oslo is a great city! 🙂 Make sure to visit the fjords next time, Tanja 🙂
Ahhh there’s definitely so much of Southern Norway left I need to explore!! Flåm seems amazing!!
There sure is, but I must admit I’d love to travel more in the North too! Tromsø seems amazing too, can’t wait to visit one day! 🙂 Thanks for commenting, Van!
Great photos and tips! I am impressed by that waterfall rolling amount snowy cliffs.
Thank you! It’s really beautiful in the Winter, the waterfalls are always stunning 🙂
It is so gorgeous there. I would love to see the fjords in the winter. Offseason with less people can be the time to go too for better deals and no crowds!
It’s so quiet and serene in the Winter – and the deals are definitely better! Thanks for commenting, Andrea! 🙂
STUNNING!! This is definitely something I would like to see, it is just beautiful 🙂 Thanks for showing us!
I’m so glad you think so, Marcella! Thank you! 🙂
What an amazing post! Literally you’ve just made us pencil in our winter travel for 2106! 🙂
We have to visit again! 🙂
Lloyd & Yaya xx
Aw, thanks so much for saying that, guys! 🙂 Let me know if you are headed my way – I’ll have to show you around! 🙂
Definitely! You’ll regret saying that – we will drag you everywhere! Haha! 🙂
x
Haha, maybe I’ll be dragging YOU everywhere! There’s loads to see 🙂
I have never been to Norway but it looks so beautiful! Your photography is fantastic, I love the one of the view from Flam Marina and Apartments. Thanks for sharing! (:
It really is, both in the summer and the Winter! 🙂 Thank you, and thanks for commenthing! 🙂
Your photos are beautiful.. I love the mountain shots 🙂
Thank you! They are absolutely stunning, it doesn’t take a professional to get them right – trust me 🙂
This looks amazing! I definitely want to go here. Pinning this 🙂
Thank you! It really is beautiful, and should be on everyones bucket list! 🙂
This is so magical, like narnia. I must book a trip next winter. Where is next for you?
It truly is beautiful! 🙂 My next trip goes to Copenhagen, Denmark! Can’t wait to explore the city! How about you? 🙂
It really looks it. I’ve heard great things about Copenhagen too – hope you enjoy it. I’m going to India in a few weeks and then have a few wild and nature inspired UK breaks booked after that. 🙂
Copenhagen is great, I haven’t been in years, so I can’t wait to re-discover it! 🙂 I’m so jealous of you, India has always been on my bucket list! Hope you love it as much as I’m sure you will 🙂 And you can never go wrong with a bit of British 😉
I hope you have an amazing time. Look forward to reading about new places that have cropped up since last time!
Thank you – I really hope it’s as amazing as I imagine too. Haha too true – so much beauty on my own doorstep. Looking forward to spring/ summer and getting outdoors a lot more again.
Thank you so much, Samm! 🙂 Same, can’t wait for warmer weather!
Hi there, I’m going to be travelling from Oslo to Bergen using the NiN transport and want to stay in a town along the way in late December. Which would you recommend out of Voss, Aurland and Undredal for the night? Which has the best views from the town and will be worth staying in do you think? Many thanks
Hi Erin! Thanks for your comment and question 🙂 Out of the three I definitely prefer Aurland! A hotel that has great views is Vangsgaarden, which I’ve written about in another blog post (read it here: http://www.lisaldn.com/love-this-hotel-vangsgaarden/ )
Let me know if you have any other questions, Erin!
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