Norway, Europe
Norway's Fjords in October
Fall color in the valleys, but heavy rain and many tourist services shut. Some mountain roads close.
The straight answer
October is a quiet, good-value month to visit Norway's Fjords. Fall color in the valleys, but heavy rain and many tourist services shut. Some mountain roads close.
- Weather
- Cool and wet, highs near 50F (10C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What October is like in Norway's Fjords
October is cool and wet, with highs near 50F (10C). Fall color fills the valleys, but heavy rain is common and many tourist services shut for the season. Some mountain roads close, and daylight shrinks quickly. Crowds and prices drop.
It suits budget travelers and photographers who want moody fall scenery from a train or ferry and can live with rain. Hikers should stick to lower, easier trails. If you want fjord villages open and dry trails, go in June through early September. For northern lights, pair with a trip north.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Norway's Fjords this month.
Fall color in the valleys
The low valleys glow gold under dark, rainy skies.
Flam Railway year-round
The railway still runs, with fewer passengers and dramatic misty views.
Bergen's rainy charm
Bergen is famously wet, and its cozy cafes and Bryggen wharf suit the season.
What to pack for October
- A fully waterproof jacket and rain pants
- Waterproof boots
- Warm layers
- A compact umbrella for Bergen
Our timing tip
Check the Norwegian road authority before driving, since some mountain roads close in October.
Book Norway's Fjords for October.
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- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Norway's FjordsOpens a hotel search for Norway's Fjords in October, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Norway's FjordsWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Norway's FjordsTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Norway's Fjords for October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
Things to do in Norway's Fjords
Flam Railway
One of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, from the mountains at Myrdal down to the Aurlandsfjord. Book ahead in summer.
Naeroyfjord cruise
The narrowest arm of the Sognefjord, best seen on the ferry between Flam and Gudvangen. Go early before cruise passengers arrive.
Geirangerfjord
Take the ferry to Hellesylt past the Seven Sisters falls, and drive up to the Dalsnibba viewpoint. Summer mornings are calmer.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
A 4 to 5 hour round trip hike to a flat rock 604 meters above the Lysefjord. Start early or late in summer to dodge crowds.
Trolltunga
A long, demanding hike of 10 to 12 hours round trip. The unguided season is roughly June to September; outside that, only go with a guide.
Bergen and Mount Floyen
Walk Bryggen early, then take the Floibanen funicular up for the city and fjord views.
Beat the crowds
- Check cruise ship schedules for Geiranger and Flam; on big-ship days the villages are packed from mid morning to late afternoon. Visit early, late, or on quiet days.
- Start Preikestolen at dawn or in the evening in June and July. The midsummer light makes a late-afternoon start safe.
- Stay overnight in fjord villages rather than day-tripping from Bergen; you get the fjords to yourself after the day boats leave.
- Book the Flam Railway, popular ferries, and small fjord hotels months ahead for July and early August.
Know before you go
- Many high mountain roads close in winter, including Trollstigen and the Geiranger road over Dalsnibba. Most typically reopen in late May or June, depending on snow. Check the Norwegian road authority before driving.
- The unguided hiking season for Trolltunga and Kjeragbolten runs roughly June to September. Outside that, snow and ice make them dangerous without a guide.
- Many fjord-village hotels, cafes, and tour boats are seasonal, open roughly May to September.
- The Flam Railway and Hurtigruten ships run year-round, with reduced winter schedules.
Norway's Fjords in October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Norway's Fjords?
October is a quiet, good-value month to visit Norway's Fjords. Fall color in the valleys, but heavy rain and many tourist services shut. Some mountain roads close.
What is the weather like in Norway's Fjords in October?
Cool and wet, highs near 50F (10C).
Is Norway's Fjords crowded in October?
October is one of the quieter months in Norway's Fjords; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Norway's Fjords in October?
Northern lights season (farther north) (late september to late march, best in dark, clear winter nights).
Keep planning Norway's Fjords.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
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