Spring in Norway

Spring in Norway is probably the hardest season to define. Some years it comes early, other years late, sometimes it’s hot, and sometimes chilly well into what’s supposed to be the summer months. While many people consider the spring equinox, around 20 March, to be the first day of the season, spring may arrive in late February in some parts of the country.

Plenty of people head to the mountains during Easter, to have fun in the snow before it melts away. Spring skiing in the sun, wearing a t-shirt, is arguably the best skiing there is! Remember to use sunscreen.

In any case, the flowers are sure to be in bloom in May, and so are the Norwegians. Nature is bursting into life all around: trees and flowers are waking, and melting mountain snow swells waterfalls, rivers and lakes. The blossoming fruit trees along the Hardangerfjord are an unforgettable sight.

There is a word for the joyful feeling that makes your heart beat a bit faster this time of year: We call it Springfulness! One of the best places in the world to experience it is in the Norwegian fjords.

The hurray season!

Thanks to the many public holidays in May, Norway’s national day on the 17th of May being the most fun, Norwegians get to really appreciate the season.

All in all, spring is a fickle mistress. You might wake up to a sudden final day of snow in April, but you’re also sure to get days warm enough for picnics or barbecues. Spring is the perfect time for a city break, with plenty of both indoor and outdoor activities. Remember to bring good shoes!

Many Norwegian cities are cosy and compact, making them easy to explore on foot. Check out some excellent routes for experiencing Norway's biggest cities in 10,000 steps.

How to dress for spring

When it comes to dressing for the weather in March, April, and May, don’t trust your own eyes – by the time you’ve put your jacket on and tied your shoelaces, the weather may have changed for the worse. Or the sky may have cleared.

The weather can change in the blink of an eye, especially in the mountains, so bring good footwear and warm clothes, whatever the conditions are like when you set out. Spring weather is especially unpredictable, so make sure you dress in layers and are prepared for sun, rain, and even snow. As we say in Norway – wool is cool.

If you’re out seeing the city sights, it's a good idea to bring an umbrella. If you are exploring nature, however, you should bring a rain jacket or windbreaker instead. Either way, you’ll probably want to wear your sunglasses, and remember to apply sunscreen if you’re spending time in the sun, especially in the mountains where there's still snow on the ground. The white snow reflects the sun, which can quickly cause sunburn.

Seasonal food and drink

Spring is the time for lamb dishes, usually eaten around Easter. The first potatoes, asparagus, and wild garlic of the year are a treat that will leave many Norwegian foodies weak at the knees. The same is true for fresh fish of all sorts, including herring and the renowned Atlantic cod from the Lofoten and Vesterålen area, called skrei.

Closer to summer, rhubarb and salads appear in all their leafy glory. This is also the time to (literally) enjoy the fruits of the autumn harvest, when you can drink world-class fruit juices outside in the sun.