FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VISITING NORWAY IN OCTOBER
If you’re wondering about travelling to Norway in October, you’re in the right place. We’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions and give you travel tips to visit this Nordic destination.
What are the best things to do in Norway in October?
As the winter weather is starting to set in, there is still plenty to do in Norway in October. And one of the major advantages is that from September and October, the crowds are smaller, meaning you’ll have more of the top sights to yourself.
One of the highlights of travelling to Norway in winter is the aurora borealis. You can see them best in Northern Norway, or you could spend a few nights on a Norwegian cruise journey along the country’s picturesque west coast.
Here are 10 of the best things to do in Norway in October:
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Spot the dancing aurora borealis in the night sky
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Explore the vibrant capital, Oslo
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Board the iconic tour Norway in a Nutshell® in October from Oslo to Bergen
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Learn more about Sami culture
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Enjoy a Havila or Hurtigruten coastal voyage along western Norway
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Marvel at the majestic waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil
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Cruise through the dramatic Norway fjord tours in October
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Hike in national parks for the country’s best vantage points and to admire the colourful foliage
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Catch a movie at the Bergen International Film Festival
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Attend UKA, Norway's largest cultural festival, in Trondheim
Good to know: As a Northern European tour operator, Nordic Visitor specialises in organising holidays to this beautiful corner of the world. Our Norwegian travel agents will tailor your itinerary to your taste.
And if you have any preferences, just get in touch. You can add excursions to your itinerary, like a northern lights boat tour, or even shore excursions to your cruise. You could visit charming Ålesund and the Lofoten islands.
Plus, you’ll get all the signature Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.
What are the best places to visit in Norway in October?
October is one of the best months to visit Norway because of the balance of daylight and dark skies.
You’ll have plenty of hours to sightsee during the day, taking fjord cruises and exploring the cities and countryside as you wish. As the nights are growing longer, you’ll also be able to go hunting for the northern lights at night!
Here are some of the best places to visit in Norway in October:
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Explore the capital
Oslo and its many highlights and museums
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Visit
Tromsø to chase the aurora borealis
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Stroll through the “Gateway to the Fjords”,
Bergen
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Hike up iconic landscapes like the
Pulpit Rock, or see them from the water
If the northern lights are on your bucket list, October is a fantastic time to visit Norway. The “northern lights belt” (also called “aurora belt”) passes directly through Northern Norway. This means the best places to go for viewing the aurora borealis are the Arctic towns of Tromsø or Kirkenes.
What is the weather like in Norway in October?
October is the transition month between summer and winter in Norway. The sunshine will be reminiscent of the warmer months, but you can expect rain and for the temperatures to start dropping. It can be especially cold on the coast or on the deck of a ship due to the wind.
In Northern Norway, the weather is likely to be cooler than in the south.
What is the temperature in October?
In Norway in October, the average temperature is around 6°C (43°F). But as the country spans such a large distance, temperatures in Norway vary depending on location.
In the capital, the average temperature is 6°C (43°F) in October. In Bergen and Stavanger, it is higher with an average of 9°C (48°F) and 10°C (50°F) respectively. That’s thanks to the Gulf Stream, which warms the west coast.
In the north, the average temperature in Tromsø is usually 3°C (37°F).
Does it snow in Norway in October?
It is unlikely to snow during your tour of Norway in October. However, from late October and early November, you may see that the rain starts turning to snow.
What are the driving conditions in Norway in October?
Driving in Norway in winter is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home, even if you’ve experienced snowy, icy conditions before. Winter storms can bring high winds, poor visibility and slippery surfaces.
Driving over mountain passes can also require extra caution at this time of year. It’s good to note that some roads are closed over the winter. This is why we recommend a summer road trip to Norway instead. Pick up a rental car to explore at your own pace!
At this time of year, you could also join a guided group tour, go hiking at Pulpit Rock and experience the midnight sun. Southern Norway is especially beautiful at this time of year!
What to pack for a trip to Norway in October?
As you can expect wind and rain as well as cooler temperatures, it’s best to pack many layers. That way, come rain or shine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
Here is a list of packing essentials for your Norway trip in October:
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Wind and waterproof jacket
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Wool jumper
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Variety of thin layers
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Waterproof trousers
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Sturdy walking or hiking boots
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A warm hat, gloves and scarves
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Thermal socks and underwear
What to wear in Norway in October?
In the Nordic countries, they have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”.
When travelling to Norway in the winter, you can expect a range of weather, from rain to sunshine, and high winds. To enjoy all your outdoor activities, come prepared with warm underlayers and waterproof outer layers.
What are the daylight hours in Norway in October?
As October represents the start of winter, you can expect nights to be growing longer and days to be getting shorter. It’s a time of year where there is a good balance between the two.
At the beginning of the month, in Oslo, the sun rises around 7:20 AM and sets by 6:50 PM. In the north, Tromsø experiences daylight hours between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM on average.
By the end of the month, the capital sees daylight hours between 7:40 AM and 4:20 PM. In Tromsø, sunrise is at 8:15 AM and sunset at 2:40 PM.
It’s good to note that Norway observes daylight saving and the clocks go back one hour in late October.
Can I see northern lights in Norway in October?
The best time to see the auroras in Norway is between the months of October and March, so you’re in luck! Head to Northern Norway with a stay in Tromsø or Kirkenes for your best chances to see them.
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