Autumn is a season of wonders – both indoors and outdoors. The landscape turns red and yellow, and the forests abound with berries, mushrooms, and game. It’s the perfect time to snuggle up under a warm blanket or face a true autumn storm. It’s also when the northern lights and orcas begin to return.
1. Mountain hikes
One very popular autumn activity is to go for a hike in the mountains and marvel at the sight of the heather, which changes into a vivid red, yellow and orange. Public transport takes you to great destinations for both biking and hiking. In some places, you can even catch a ride with a gondola to the top. Here are some of our top hiking tips.
2. Storm watching
There is nothing like a true autumn storm. The forces of mother nature can be quite an experience to behold – if you make sure to dress accordingly. The stunning Dosabu cabin in Bremanger is specifically built for storm watching. Here, you have a panoramic view of the ocean while remaining dry and warm. A true stormy night is hard to forget, especially if you experience it in a lighthouse or a fisherman’s cabin right by the edge of the water in Northern Norway. Kråkenes Lighthouse is definitely recommended for this.
RambergNusfjord Village & Resort
At the end of a secluded valley stretching toward the sea, the heritage of our historic fishing village blends with every desire of modern adventurers. Here, the spirit of exploration fills the air, inviting you to uncover and enjoy extraordinary moments. In the wild landscapes of Lofoten, Nusfjord offers a refuge of warmth and hospitality.
GratangenFoldvik Bryggeferie - Sea Cottages
WELCOME TO THE "COAST CULTURE CENTER", FOLDVIK AND FOLDVIK BRYGGEFERIE - SEA COTTAGES Foldvik is located in Gratangen municipality, about 6 km north of Narvik. Foldvik Bryggferie is beautifully situated on the seafront at Foldvik pier, and has rudder arches with connection to the quay, rental boats and floating jetty.
3. Time to relax
Nothing can compare to the joy of snuggling up under a warm blanket in a cosy cabin after going head-to-head against the autumn weather. As the evenings grow darker, autumn is the perfect time for candlelight and the relaxing sound of a crackling fireplace, perhaps while enjoying a good book or spending time with someone special.
4. Northern lights and whale safaris
Did you know that winter is not the only time of year you can see the northern lights? The intensity of this staggering natural light show is enough to leave anyone speechless. Up north, autumn is also ideal for whale spotting; species include humpback whales and orcas. If you are travelling with Hurtigruten, you get northern lights tours and whale safaris included. Vesterålen, Senja, Alta and Tromsø are all superb destinations in which to experience whales and northern lights.
5. Cultural autumn
Autumn is the perfect season for new arts and culture experiences. Make the most of it by visiting the best art museums and galleries in Norway. Head to the MUNCH museum, or the National Gallery, the biggest art museum in the Nordic countrie, and experience the fabulous sculpture parks dressed in autumn colours. There are also excellent museums for arts, history, and natural history in Bergen, Stavanger, Tromsø and many other places (not to mention film festivals and live music).
6. Sauna season
In Norway, it’s never too cold to go for a swim. Although, taking some time in one of the country’s hottest saunas first will probably help. Let the heat soak all the way into your very core, before diving into the refreshingly cold water outside. Even if there’s a light drizzle, you’re guaranteed to feel like a new and better version of yourself afterwards. A chic spa hotel is also a good option if you wish to indulge yourself.
7. Romance by the fjord
Breathe in. Breathe out. Feel the bustle of summer shift to the tranquillity of autumn. Want to stay at a magnificent, historical timber hotel? Getting a room is a lot easier as we drift into this time of year. Hike along the fjords and observe how the majestic landscape changes colour and pulse, while feeling the pull and push of the forces of nature. Inclement weather also has the power to bring people together to stay warm.
8. Big cities with small town charm
Even though Oslo is often listed among the top cities in the world to visit, there are several other smaller cities that are also worth your time. Despite their smaller size, cities such as Bergen and Ålesund are sure to provide you with grand – and unique – adventures.
9. Ride the rails to spectacular views
Lonely Planet is not alone in naming the Bergen Railway Line as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. However, Norway has several other breathtaking stretches to travel by train, such as the Rauma Line and the Nordland Line. As autumn marches on, you are bound to drift along past a wide variety of seasonal beauty.
10. Sample a delicious taste of autumn
Autumn is the season to eat lamb, in any shape or form. Moose and other wild beasts are perfect with lingonberries and cream sauce. New potatoes, sweet carrots, and crispy chanterelles are all on the autumn menu. Make the most of the extended evenings by enjoying something good to drink in good company. Pick your own ingredients or have the best of Nordic cuisine served to you at one of Norway's Michelin-starred restaurants.
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
Cabin CampersExperience the road trip of a lifetime with our cabins on four wheels.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.
Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.
