Weather
In the southern regions such as Oslo and the Bergen/fjord region, temperatures typically stay in the low 70s Fahrenheit during the day, dropping to the mid-50s at night, while daylight lasts for 14-16 hours per day. Above the Arctic Circle, you'll get 15-20 hours of daylight—ample time to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities. It's smart to bring layers for chilly mornings and evenings, good walking/hiking shoes, and a waterproof jacket for occasional rains.
Crowds & Costs
The month of August is the tail end of Norway's highest tourism season. Sites and attractions will have extended hours, but you can expect more crowds and higher prices. Travelers should be aware that accommodations throughout the country book up months ahead of time—advance planning is recommended, or here are some ideas or Unique Lodging Options in Norway. If looking to avoid the crowds, this is the ideal time to head inland, north of the Arctic Circle, or towards smaller coastal towns that are not accessible by the large cruise ships teeming with eager tourists.
Where to Go
Close your eyes and point to a spot on the map—all of Norway's regions are great to visit in August. There are summery resort towns along the southern coast, iconic western fjords, and the dramatic Lofoten Islands archipelago above the Arctic Circle. For lesser-visited islands, head to Vesterålen for hiking trails, farmland, and peaceful beaches. You can also venture out to rugged Svalbard island chain if you dream of spotting polar bears in the wild.
Consider a west coast trip on the iconic Hurtigruten coastal ferry towards Ålesund, an art nouveau city revitalized after a devastating fire a century ago. From here, ride through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, known for its waterfalls. Here's the Ultimate Guide to Norway's Fjords for more. A fun detour from the Geirangerfjord is the famous Trollstigen Road, a masterpiece in engineering. For more ideas on where to go, check out the Top Road Trips in Norway and our guide to Getting Off-the-Beaten-Path.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
Warm weather, a looming Autumn, and the Norwegian enjoy-every-moment attitude make this month's focus all about getting outdoors. You could spend weeks exploring Norway's national parks that welcome mountaineers from all over the world—here are just a few. This is also a great time for mega-popular day hikes like Pulpit Rock and Troll's Tongue.
Other summer outdoor activities include kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, and surfing thanks to the Gulf Stream's warm waters. If you’ve ever wanted to go whale watching in the wild, the tiny fishing village of Stø in Vesterålen is the perfect spot, offering safaris under the midnight sun to observe wildlife.
Urbanites can take advantage of Norway's cities, which offer beautiful parks, outdoor restaurants, and cultural attractions, as well as a great lineup of festivals in August (see below) to help celebrate the summer season. For a more relaxed trip, you can rent a car and explore quiet fjord-side villages and wooden architecture all over southern and central Norway.
Events in August
Bergen Beer Festival. This fun two-day event features brews from across the globe in Norway's 2nd largest city.
Shellfish Festival. This annual festival in Mandal takes place during the 2nd week of August where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a range of musical acts.
Pstereo. Take part in Trondheim's huge outdoor pop and rock festival in late August, with up to 300 performers each year.
Telemark International Folk Music Festival. This international festival of folk music and folk dance in Bø features many famous fiddlers, dancers, and singers.
Oslo Jazz Festival. This annual festival is held on the 2nd week of August and features early jazz music from the 1920s, as well as classical concerts, opera, and ballet.
Traveling to Norway in August? Check out these great itineraries.
Nordic Road Trip for Nature Lovers. Take the wheel on this relaxed self-guided road trip as you travel through five of Norway's official scenic routes. Over two weeks you'll encounter a number of stunning fjords, national parks, cool mountain towns, farm stands, and varying landscapes with mile-long views. Finish the adventure with some urban culture in Bergen.
Norway Slow Travel: Oslo, Aurland & Bergen. Embrace the slow-paced local culture of Aurland while staying two nights at a secluded and upscale lodge that serves organic cuisine. Take part in some light hiking and paddling and then cruise the Sognefjord by ferry, finishing the adventure in scenic Bergen—Norway's UNESCO-listed second largest city, surrounded by seven mountains.
More Helpful Information
Norway in July
Norway in September
Best Time to Visit Norway
How to Spend a Week in Norway