Visiting Norway in November
November in Norway signals the true start of winter. Days grow shorter, the mountains turn white and the northern skies are alive with aurora.
November is a quieter, more reflective time of year to visit Norway. It’s the perfect month to come if you want to experience the raw beauty of Norway in winter before the holiday season begins in full.
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring snow-covered towns or simply admiring the stillness of the fjords, Norway in November offers both adventure and calm. It’s cold, yes – but pack the right clothing and you’ll be rewarded with Christmas card-worthy views all to yourself.
Weather in Norway in November
Southern Norway in November
In places like Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger, November brings a mix of cool, wet days. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, coastal temperatures stay around 3–7°C, but rainfall is common. Snow is rare at sea level but more likely in the nearby hills.
Central Norway in November
Inland and further north, Trondheim and surrounding areas can see average temperatures from 0 to 4°C. Snow becomes more common, particularly at higher elevations, and weather conditions can shift quickly. Head here for a highly satisfying and easily accessible taste of winter.
Northern Norway in November
In Tromsø, Alta and around the North Cape, temperatures often fall below freezing – typically between –2°C and –8°C. Snow is common, and daylight hours drop to just a few each day. It’s a great time for aurora watching, with long, dark nights and pastel skies during the day.
Why visit Norway in November?
The fjords wear their winter
November transforms the fjords. Mountains start to collect snow and the low light brings a stillness to the fjords that’s hard to match. On a voyage with us, you can watch it all unfold from the warmth of the ship, with no need to drive along unpredictable winter roads.
Northern Lights season hits its stride
Long, dark nights mean excellent conditions for seeing the Northern Lights in Norway in November. Our ships sail directly beneath the Auroral Oval, further increasing your chances of a sighting. And if you don’t see the lights on an 11-day voyage, you can come back for free with our Northern Lights Promise.
Early winter adventures
November is the perfect time to try snowshoeing in Tromsø, dog sledding or snowmobiling – before peak season crowds arrive. Our guided excursions make these activities easily accessible, even for first-timers.
Christmas begins to appear
From mid-November, Norway’s cities begin to light up for the festive season. Christmas markets and seasonal menus begin to appear in cities such as Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. It’s a great time to visit for a festive atmosphere without the December rush.
A quieter, more personal experience
Without the summer tourists, November lets you explore Norway’s museums, galleries and heritage sites at your own pace. Whether you’re walking through Oslo’s Vigeland Park or exploring old alleys in Bergen, this time of year brings a different kind of connection.
Where to go in Norway in November
North Cape – A journey to the edge
This is as far north as most people ever go. November at Norway’s North Cape brings polar landscapes, deep snow, and beautiful blue hours instead of bright daylight. It’s remote, but unforgettable – especially from the deck our ships.
Lofoten Islands – Moody seas and mountain drama
In November, the Lofoten Islands feel especially powerful and peaceful. Waves roll in, light shifts quickly and snow settles on the fishing villages. It's a place for photographers, nature lovers and those who want to feel far away from it all.
Oslo, Bergen and Stavanger – Culture and comfort
Best things to do in Norway in November
Chase the Northern Lights in November
Sail beneath the Auroral Oval in peak season, with crew alerts – and our Northern Lights Promise if the skies stay quiet.
Go dog sledding or snowmobiling
Try Arctic excursions like dog sledding in Tromsø or a snowmobile trip deep into November’s polar night.
Visit Christmas markets
Along the coast, from Oslo and Bergen to Tromsø, Norway’s best Christmas markets begin to light up mid to late November.
Sail the fjords in winter light
See Norway in a way few tourists do as you cruise beside snow-dusted mountains and quiet coastal villages where larger cruise ships can’t go. November’s low light brings out the fjords’ most dramatic moods.
Ride the Flåm Railway
Extend your holiday in Norway with a trip to Flåm and experience Norway’s steepest railway through frozen valleys and mountain tunnels in early winter.
Go whale watching
Look out for humpbacks and orcas in northern waters. November is a great time to go whale-watching in Norway.
A taste of Norway in November
In Norway, food shifts with the seasons and November is when comfort food takes over. You’ll find warming dishes like reindeer stew, salted lamb and fresh Arctic cod, often paired with root vegetables or rich sauces.
Cosy cafés serve hot chocolate, gløgg (mulled wine) and waffles piled high with sour cream and jam. Bakeries begin selling gingerbread and cinnamon pastries ahead of Christmas. It’s a great time to sample local ingredients and seasonal cooking.
We serve many of these seasonal dishes on our voyages throughout November – giving you a taste of winter traditions as you sail.
What to pack for Norway in November
Our top travel tip for how to dress for Norway in November? Bring layers. Norway can be rainy in the south, snowy in the north, and you might experience all types of weathers within the same day! Temperature ranges vary from 7°C in the south to –8°C in the north, so pack for mixed weather conditions.
Essential items:
Insulated, waterproof jacket and trousers
Thermal base layers
Sturdy waterproof boots
Hat, gloves and scarf
Wool socks and warm jumper
Reflective bands, to wear when walking in the dark
A small backpack for excursions
Explore Norway in November with Hurtigruten
Frequently asked questions
Yes. November is a perfect time to experience Norway’s winter landscapes, Northern Lights and festive stirrings – all without peak-season crowds.
Dress in layers: thermal base layers, an insulated and waterproof outer shell, warm boots and winter accessories. The weather varies by region.
Absolutely. November is part of peak Northern Lights season, especially in northern regions like Tromsø and Alta.
It gets colder the further north you go. Temperatures range from 7°C in southern cities to –8°C or lower further north.
Yes. We sail the fjords year-round, and in November, the fjords are quieter, snowier and especially beautiful in winter light.
November is a great time for whale watching in the north, especially around Tromsø and Vesterålen. You may also see reindeer on excursions.
Discover Norway, month by month
Visiting Norway in October
October in Norway offers fewer crowds, bold colours and the first glimpse of the country's winter magic.
Visiting Norway in December
December in Norway brings Northern Lights, snowy scenery and array of winter activities, which are made even more magical by the cosiness of Christmas.