Things to Do in Norway in Winter
What are the things you can do in Norway during the winter season? You can go ice fishing, sledding, hiking, cross-country skiing, or see the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis), among other things. However, there are also a number of smaller, more traditional winter activities that you can try as well.
Norway is a beautiful Scandinavian country packed with picturesque nature. If you are looking for a snow adventure, hiking, or camping, then you can surely find a suitable place for you to do these things.
There is a big winter temperature variation in different towns and places in Norway. Nevertheless, expect it to be cold and below zero degrees Celsius. That being said, you should be prepared to pack thick winter clothes to keep you warm.
So what are the things you can do in Norway during the winter time?
If you are looking for more physical activities and adventure during Norway’s winter season, then go sledding, cross-country skiing, hiking, and exploring the glaciers. All these and more can be done in different parts of Norway like Tromso, Finnmark, and Svalbard.
Reindeer sledding
During winter in Norway, you can experience the unique experience of reindeer sledding. It’s an exciting outdoor activity for the whole family. A fun adventure that also gives you a chance to learn more about the Sami people.
For centuries, the Sami people have herded reindeer in Norway. The sled is their oldest mode of transport. A typical reindeer sledding tour includes a short ride on the sled, followed by time in a cozy lavvu (traditional tent for temporary shelter).
Another fun activity during winter is to go on a sled dog ride. Husky sled tours in Tromso provide an interesting way to learn more about this local tradition. You’ll learn more about the Sami culture while getting an up-close look at these enchanting animals. You’ll also have the chance to meet them.
Snow Mobile tours
Another must-do winter activity during the winter time is to experience snowmobile tours. These are mainly offered in Tromso, Svalbard, and Finnmark. But you can always ask your tour guide or tourist information centers for other places offering snowmobile activities.
Get ready to snowmobile in the terrain or slopes of these beautiful places.
Dog sledding
Taking a dog sledding trip in Norway is a great way to experience the beauty of nature in the winter. There are several dog sledding operators in the country, so you can choose the right one for you. You may be able to combine your dog-sledding trip with other popular winter activities, such as sightseeing cruises or ice fishing.
Some dog-sledding destinations are in the northern part of Norway, where the temperatures are lower and the snow is thicker. While in the north, don’t forget to drop by and visit Sami villages and get a sense of traditional Norwegian life and the Sami culture.
If you want to go dog sledding in northern Norway, you may want to consider Tromso. It’s a vibrant city that’s located near the Arctic Circle. It’s a great place to spend a winter holiday with tons of fun winter activities to do for both children and adults.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling with orcas is one of the best and must-experience winter activities in Norway. If you are planning your winter vacation, then add snorkeling with Orcas to your list.
Although this is not a guarantee, it is one of the most enjoyable experiences. In addition to the fact that orcas are huge predators, their presence in the water is impressive.
This winter activity is offered from the middle to the end of December through the beginning of February.
There are several companies that offer tours to snorkel with orcas so get in contact with your tour guide.
Fjord Tours or Fjord safaris
The fjords in Norway are home to numerous whales, including minke and humpbacks. These whales use the deep waters along the continental shelf as a migratory route.
The Norwegian fjords are home to coral reefs at accessible depths. They also have strong tidal currents. Changes in the tides reveal the unique nature of Norway’s underwater world.
The fjords of Norway are a natural wonder, and you’ll be able to see the best of them on a liveaboard. Don’t forget to pack and wear the right winter clothes when visiting Norway during the winter.
Other winter activities you can do to level up your winter adventure are snowshoeing, kayaking, snowboarding, and skiing.
Another place you may want to consider is Romsdalen. This area has a beautiful mountain landscape and emerald-green rivers. The area offers a number of hiking trails, gondola rides, and other exciting tours and activities. You can also take a sightseeing cruise or a husky safari.
For those who are not into physical activities but are looking for a calmer and more relaxed way to experience winter in Norway, there are of course activities you can do too.
Chasing the Northern lights
While in the North, you can combine your winter itinerary with the Northern lights hunting. There is no guarantee that you will see the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) but when it appears, you will surely be mesmerized by this natural beauty.
One of the most common places to see the aurora borealis in Norway in the winter is Tromso. This city is located at 69 degrees North and is considered to be the heart of the aurora zone. It is also one of the best places to see the lights, so be sure to leave enough time to get here.
Want a better view? You can hike at Fjellheisen mountain. This mountain offers amazing views of the city, as well as the northern lights.
This natural phenomenon is one of the best highlights of the winter season.
It may be hard to believe, but the polar lights are one of the most sought-after sights in the world. The best way to see these lights is under clear, cloudless skies.
Ice or Snow hotel experience
Want to go beyond your winter list? Then book a stay at the Ice Hotel (Snow Hotel) located in Alta.
Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel was built in 1999. A number of artists will chisel huge amounts of ice and snow every winter season and just in a span of a few weeks, the Igloo hotel is open to the public for an amazing unique winter experience.
Floating Sauna
Floating Sauna by KOK Oslo is open all year round. But if you want to experience diving into the freezing water of Oslo on your own small cabin-like floating sauna then this is a must-try.
Floating saunas can be booked for 2 hrs and can accommodate 10 guests.
Imagine having your own floating sauna and diving into the frosty water of Oslo while traversing the Oslo fjords or staying static as you wish. It’s all up to you, so jump in!
Christmas Bazar
There are lots of winter activities for you who do not want physical or active winter adventures.
During the winter time especially during the month of December, there are lots of Christmas Bazaars happening in every town and city.
One of the most awaited events in Oslo during the winter time is the opening of Winter Land at Spikkersupa. It is a marketplace for food and other Christmas goods plus a fun ride for kids and people young at heart.
Craving for churros? Chocolate-coated apples?Warm chocolate milk? Then wander to Spikkersuppa with your kids and surely you will all love it.
By the way, don’t forget to bring your ice skating shoes. During the winter time, December to be exact, the fountain at Spikersuppa is transformed into a skating rink for the public. It is open and free so just bring your own shoes. Kids will surely enjoy gliding in this open skating rink.
To sum it up, there are various exciting winter activities you can do in Norway. Skiing, fjord safari, reindeer or dog sledding, snowmobiling, and chasing the Northern lights are just some of the numerous winter activities you can do.
Planning for your next winter holiday in Norway? You will absolutely have a busy schedule with all these amazing adventures you can do solo or with family.
Just don’t forget to dress up properly, bring thick winter jackets that can withstand below zero degrees, bonnets, gloves, wool inner clothing, and boots! Remember to keep warm and enjoy!
Read the all-year-round activities you can do in Oslo in this article.
