Visiting Norway in July
July is when Norway settles into summer. The coast slows down, the days are endless, and the rhythm of life shifts with the season. It’s warm, it’s light and the sea is calling.
One of the best times to visit Norway, July is the height of summer here. This is when many of us Norwegians take our summer holiday. Families head to their cabins. The trails are busy with hikers. Boats glide through the fjords. If you want to experience Norway at full strength, July is the month for you.
With the Midnight Sun still shining in the north, there’s time to do everything – or nothing at all. Whether you’re hiking mountain trails, driving the coast or cruising the fjords, July is when Norway feels endless. The whole country moves with the easy rhythm of the summer months.
What is the weather like in Norway in July?
July is warm, bright and perfect for being outdoors. Temperatures are at their warmest, the chance of clear skies is at its highest and our landscapes are at their lushest.
Southern Norway
Days on the south coast are long and warm, with temperatures reaching 25–30°C. We love to cool off in the sea and the fjords at this time of year, when the waters are at their balmiest (around 18°C).
Central Norway
Though slightly cooler than the south, Norway's central region is still mild and pleasant at this time of year. Temperatures range from 14–20°C, and rainfall averages at around 10 days a month.
Northern Norway
The further you travel north above the Arctic Circle, the longer the Midnight Sun stays up. It finally dips below the horizon in Bodø in mid-July and North Cape at the end of July. Until then, the landscapes bathe in golden light, making every hour feel like early evening.
Temperatures range from 10–16°C and rainfall varies widely – Lofoten tends to be wetter, while North Cape stays drier with less than 50mm of rain. In Svalbard, temperatures range from 3–7°C and the weather is relatively stable, with endless daylight hours.
The best things to do in Norway in July
Lace up your hiking boots
Come July, we Norwegians love to hike. The trails are clear, the air is fresh and the views stretch for miles.
One of our most famous hikes is Trolltunga, and July is an excellent time to tackle it thanks to the long hours of daylight. The 10–12-hour trek rewards hikers with a view like no other – a rock ledge jutting out over the fjord, 700 metres above the water below. It’s long, it’s challenging, but it’s worth every step.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is another must-hike in July. The trail leads through forests and over rocky paths before reaching the sheer cliff that towers above Lysefjord. Stand at the edge, feel the wind, and look down at the deep blue fjord stretching far below.
Go island hopping in the Oslofjord
The Oslofjord is dotted with islands, each offering a perfect escape from the summer bustle of Oslo, our capital city. Ferries run between them, making it easy to hop from one to the next. Hovedøya has sandy beaches and military history, Lindøya is known for swimming and its colourful summer cabins, and Gressholmen is a great spot for fresh seafood.
With long days and calm waters, July is the a wonderful time to explore this peaceful archipelago.
(Image credit: Tord Baklund - Visit Oslo)
Explore Bergen on foot
The gateway to Norway's fjords – and the departure point for our 12-day Original Coastal Express voyages – Bergen is a city best explored on foot. Wander the narrow alleyways of Bryggen, the historic wharf lined with colourful wooden houses, before heading to the fish market for some freshly caught seafood.
To see the city from a new perspective, take the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen. The short but steep ride rewards you with sweeping views of the city, the fjords and the surrounding mountains. In July, the long, sunny days make it the perfect spot to hike, picnic or simply watch the boats glide through the harbour below.
Embark on a fjord cruise
Getting on the water in July is a must. The still, deep waters of Norway’s fjords reflect the mountains, and the long summer days mean more time to soak up the views.
Geirangerfjord is our most famous fjord, and for good reason. Towering cliffs rise straight from the water, and waterfalls cascade down their sides. We sail directly into the fjord on our northbound Original Coastal Express voyages.
Sail to the edge of the world
The Svalbard Line takes you far beyond the mainland to the High Arctic. It’s a rare chance to sail under the Midnight Sun and through remote waters of 78° North. You could sunbathe on deck at midnight!
Step ashore in Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town, and see how life unfolds on the edge of the polar wilderness. Along the way, watch for walrus on the shore, whales in the deep and maybe even polar bears roaming the coastline.
Cycle the streets of Trondheim
Trondheim is one of Norway’s best cities for biking, and July is the perfect time to explore it on two wheels. The long, sunny days and mild temperatures make for ideal cycling conditions, whether you're riding along the Nidelva River or exploring the city's historic streets on our Cycling in Trondheim excursion.
For a unique experience, try the Trampe – the world’s first bike lift – which helps cyclists up the steep hill to the Kristiansten Fortress. Once at the top, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the fjord beyond.
Visit Norway's fjords in July with Hurtigruten
Choose from our range of Original and Signature cruise itineraries along the Norwegian coast and explore our home with those who know it best.
