With abundant snow, otherworldly landscapes, and magical northern lights, Norway turns into a true winter wonderland during the colder months.
Despite the frigid temperatures (and occasional bad weather), winter is a great time of year to visit Norway. You can beat the colder temperatures by bundling up – knowing what to wear is the key to a fantastic winter trip to Norway. Read on to plan your Norwegian winter trip, including what to pack, things to do, and what to expect when visiting Norway in winter.
Winter Weather in Norway: What to Expect
Norway’s winter weather will depend on where you are in the country, but generally, you can expect cold temperatures and plenty of snowfall. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Coastal Norway tends to have milder temperatures with strong winds.
While Northern Norway has an arctic climate with lots of snow, Southern Norway is a bit milder, with excellent conditions for skiing. In general, the average winter temperature near Oslo hovers around -6.8°C / 19 F.
Norway Winter Packing List
Because Norway in winter can be cold, you will want to pack several layers. It’s a good idea for each of your outfits to have a base layer, a mid-layer, and an outer layer. An extra thick wool sweater can be handy as it can be used both in the city and up in the mountains. Find some really nice ones from Dale of Norway here (amazon)
Base Layer
For your base layer, you should wear moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms – wool and silk are excellent base materials. This will be a game-changer when it comes to insulation and moisture management. For instance wool long johns under a pair of jeans can be a lifesaver on a cold day in the city.
Here are some of good base layer options for men:
Here are some good base layer options for women:
- Thermal Long-Sleeve Crewneck
- Merino Wool Long Sleeve Shirt
- Thermal Leggings
- Fleece-Lined Leggings
- Silk Long Johns
Mid-Layer
Your mid-layer is the layer between your base layer and your coat. Fleece jackets, wool sweaters, and vests are fantastic mid-layer options.
Check out these mid-layer options for men:
Here are some mid-layer options for women:
It’s also a good idea to bring a rain jacket or shell jacket in case of rain. This women’s sherpa-lined jacket is a great option, along with this men’s rain jacket. I’d say these can be especially useful along the coast where there tends to be more rain even in the wintertime.
Outerwear
If you plan on skiing, dog sledding, or doing any kind of outdoor activity, outwear is a must! You’ll need a heavy-duty winter coat, snow pants, snow suits, and waterproof outerwear.
Winter Coats for Men:
- Warm Parka Ski Jacket
- Winter Down Jacket
- Hooded Winter Down Jacket
- Light Down Puffer Jacket
- Light Down Jacket
- Heavy Duty Down Jacket
Winter Coats for Women:
You can also have an outer layer for your lower body – here are a few choices for men:
Check out these outer-layer winter pants for women:
Winter Footwear
No matter where you go in Norway in the winter, you’ll need appropriate winter footwear that will keep your feet warm. Wear insulated and waterproof boots with good grip, especially when hiking in the snow.
Winter Boots for Men:
Winter Boots for Women:
These overshoes are ideal for skiing, dog sledding, or being out in the snow – they will keep out the cold moisture! You can add these wool insoles to your boots for extra warmth.
Winter Accessories
The first body parts that will react to the winter temperatures are your hands, feet, and neck – but with the right accessories (found below!), you’ll stay warm and comfortable.
Neck Warmers:
Mittens and Gloves:
Warm Socks:
Cleats for Winter Hiking:
Warm Hats:
- Tough Outfitters
- Merino Wool Beanie
- Smartwool Cabin Hat
- Smartwool Merino Wool Beanie
- Smartwool Women’s Beanie
Another important accessory during the winter months in Norway is a reflective vest. Because of Norway’s polar night, when it is dark 24 hours a day, you’ll want to wear a neon reflective vest so that others can see you when you are walking, skiing, or hiking.
For more inspiration also see my article What to wear in Norway: a Travelers Guide.
Norway Itinerary: Winter Activities
If you’re wondering what to do in Norway during winter, check out the list below!
Go Cross-Country Skiing
The best way to experience Norway’s winter beauty is on a cross-country skiing adventure – this country has no shortage of fantastic cross-country skiing trails. The Birkebeiner trail in Lillehammer is one of the best skiing destinations in Europe, with 350 kilometers of groomed trails with forests and mountain terrain.
Another ski destination is Geilo, located 3h45min with train from Oslo. Buy the train ticket at the VY website, or make it into a stop when traveling on a Nutshell-tour between Oslo and Bergen.
- What to wear: Layer up with moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell. Wear wool socks, gloves, and a hat to stay warm, and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the snow glare.
Attend Norway’s Christmas Markets
If you’re visiting Norway in November or December, you can’t miss the local food, handmade gifts, and sparkling winter streets at the many Christmas markets nationwide. Winter Wonderland in Spikersuppa, Oslo, is one of the best options, with an ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, and incredible food stalls.
Many restaurants this time of year serve classic Norwegian dishes such as ribbe, pinnekjøtt and lutefisk. For more on lutefisk check out the YouTube-episode I made about How to cook and eat Lutefisk.
–> You might also like my article Experience the Magic of Christmas in Oslo.
- What to wear: Opt for warm layers like a wool sweater and insulated jacket paired with thermal leggings, a scarf, and gloves. Sturdy, waterproof boots are key when walking around snowy streets.
Visit the Lofoten Islands
This archipelago in Norway is one of the most beautiful winter destinations in the world. You’ll find quaint fishing villages, towering snow-capped mountains, and panoramic vistas of the winter scenery. If you go to Lofoten don’t miss out on the Trollfjorden Fjord Cruise!
- What to wear: Wear thermal layers with an insulated jacket and waterproof pants. Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots for exploring snowy landscapes.
Planning a trip takes time, especially when traveling to a new country. If you want to save time on research and planning so you can focus on enjoying your journey, I’d love to help you craft your custom daily Norway itinerary!
GET YOUR CUSTOM NORWAY TOUR PLAN >
View the Aurora Borealis
The best place to see the northern lights is in Northern Norway, which is close to the Arctic Circle. November through February is the peak season for viewing these lights, so the winter is the best time to see this incredible sight. Check out this Northern Lights Tour in Tromsø.
- What to wear: Opt for heavy insulation with a down jacket, thermal leggings, and a wool hat. Waterproof boots and gloves are necessary to withstand the cold while you wait for the lights. Note that some Northern Lights tour companies will provide warm clothing to their guests.
Go on a Whale Safari
Between November and January, whales migrate through the fjords of Troms – book a whale safari in advance to witness killer and humpback whales in their natural habitat!
- What to wear: Choose thermal base layers, a windproof and waterproof jacket, and insulated pants. Warm accessories like a wool hat, gloves, and boots are essential for the cold boat ride.
Go on a Fjord Cruise
A fjord cruise on the Norwegian coast is one of the best ways to see the northern lights and Norway’s beautiful fjords. On a winter cruise, you can see some of these UNESCO World Heritage Site fjords, including Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.
- What to wear: Dress warmly in thermal layers and a waterproof jacket. A wool hat, gloves, and scarf will help protect you from the wind on deck.
Enjoy Norway’s Dog Sledding Tours
There’s no better way to witness Norway’s winter landscapes than on the back of a dog sled! Enjoy the landscapes of Alta, Norway, and learn more about the history of dog sledding on this dog sledding tour.
- What to wear: Wear thermal base layers, an insulated jacket, and waterproof snow pants. Wool socks, gloves, and a balaclava ski mask will help keep you warm during the ride.
Ride on the Flåm Railway
As one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, the Flåm Railway is perfect for those who want to see Norway’s beauty without having to deal with the frigid temperatures. Along the way, you’ll climb 106 kilometers from Bergen to Myrdal, showcasing untouched valleys, deep ravines, and short tunnels.
The Flåm railway is part of both the Norway in a Nutshell & Sognefjord in a Nutshell tours. You can book them here.
- What to wear: Casual layers like a warm sweater and a jacket, along with a scarf and gloves, are perfect for staying comfortable while enjoying the scenery from the train.
Explore Norway on a Snowshoe Hike
You don’t have to be a skier to witness stunning winter beauty in Norway – just go on a snowshoe hike instead.
- What to wear: Dress in moisture-wicking layers, an insulated jacket, and waterproof pants. Waterproof hiking boots and warm gloves are crucial for staying warm and dry.
Visit Norway’s Historical Sites
Norway’s historical sites and districts are especially stunning during the winter months. Take a walking tour of Bryggen, a historic harbor district in Bergen, dating back to the 12th century!
- What to wear: Dress warmly in a wool coat, thermal layers, and insulated boots. A scarf, hat, and gloves will help you stay comfortable while exploring outdoor sites.
Final thoughts
With incredible scenery and magical activities, Norway in winter is the trip of a lifetime – just be sure to pack plenty of warm layers!
So what are you waiting for? Book your stay in winter Norway today!
DISCLAIMER: Products on this page may contain affiliate links, and I might make a small sum per purchase. For you this does not affect the product price, but supports me and my work, and makes me able to continue sharing my passion for Norway with you. Read the Disclaimer policy. Thank you, tusen takk!
