Autumn in Norway

A colourful time to explore Norway

During the months of September, October, and November, the days get shorter, the air crisper, the food richer, and the colours more dazzling. Autumn is the perfect time for a city break – which can easily include both a mountain hike and a steaming hot spa.

In Norway, autumn brings a wide range of temperatures and weather. Summery vibes may last well into October in Southern Norway, while the rain sometimes turns into snow in early November in the mountains. But a sure sign that autumn is here is when the leaves turn yellow and red.

The Norwegian word for autumn is høst, which also means harvest. Autumn is the harvesting season – with plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit, and game! The Norwegian culinary culture takes some subtle turns this time of year, favouring local ingredients and slow-cooked and rich dishes well suited to a chillier climate.

Orange, red, green, brown, yellow: nature is at its most dazzling in autumn. The mountain areas are especially beautiful this time of year, and many Norwegians go hiking in the mountains or forests with their family during the autumn break in October.

And in the North, the northern lights start to dance again ...

Art season

Autumn is also the perfect time for a city break! This is the high season for great cultural experiences, be it art exhibitions, literature festivals, or intimate club concerts – maybe with a future global pop star? A walk in one of our amazing sculpture parks, all dressed in autumn colours, is not to be missed either.

Oslo has become one of Europe's most exciting cultural capitals for art lovers, with the new MUNCH museum and the National Museum – the biggest art museum in the Nordic countries! Trondheim and Trøndelag has been awarded the European Region of Gastronomy – heaven for foodies.

In Fjord Norway, Bergen is renowned for its music and art and is the gateway to the spectacular fjords, which are draped in autumn colours at this time of year. In Northern Norway, the northern lights are beginning to dance in the skies above Tromsø.

Autumn is all about gathering together in a cabin with hot chocolate and a roaring fire. The feeling of “kos” – the cosy and content feeling of happiness you get when you feel safe, warm, and good together – is very important when the days get shorter and the rain drums on your window pane.

How to dress for autumn weather

Wind and rain can sometimes make autumn a wet experience, but you might also be lucky and experience an Indian summer with sun and blue skies. Predicting what you should wear can be difficult, but having access to wind and rainproof outer clothing is always a good idea. A light weight down jacket is also a smart choice for travellers.

Inside this outer shell, dress in several thin layers of wool rather than a single big thick sweater. Layers are far more flexible and make it easier to control your temperature.

Norwegian wool regulates heat. In addition, as opposed to cotton, wool continues to provide insulation and much-needed warmth even when it's wet.

Get the latest weather forecast

Check the local weather forecast at Yr.no, delivered by the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK). Download Yr’s free weather app for iOS or Android.