Norway, Europe
Norway's Fjords in September
Early fall color and quieter trails. Some services and ferries begin winter schedules mid month.
The straight answer
September is a good month to visit Norway's Fjords. Early fall color and quieter trails. Some services and ferries begin winter schedules mid month.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 58F (14C), wetter
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What September is like in Norway's Fjords
September is cool and wetter, with highs near 58F (14C). Early fall color arrives, the trails are quieter and the light is soft. Some services and ferries switch to winter schedules in mid month, and the unguided season for Trolltunga ends as the month closes. The northern lights season starts farther north, though the fjords themselves are too far south for reliable sightings.
It suits hikers and couples who want fewer people and do not mind rain. Go in the first half for the most open services. If you want long, bright days and everything running, June is the better pick.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Norway's Fjords this month.
Early fall color
Birch and mountain slopes turn gold and red, lovely from the Flam Railway.
Quiet trails
Preikestolen and the valley walks are far calmer than in summer.
Aurora season begins up north
From late September, a side trip to Tromso or Lofoten brings a chance at the northern lights.
What to pack for September
- A waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm layers for cool days
- Waterproof hiking boots
- A warm hat for evenings
Our timing tip
Book the first half of September, before ferries and fjord-village hotels shift to winter schedules.
Book Norway's Fjords for September.
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- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Norway's FjordsOpens a hotel search for Norway's Fjords in September, 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 September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Norway's Fjords?
September is a good month to visit Norway's Fjords. Early fall color and quieter trails. Some services and ferries begin winter schedules mid month.
What is the weather like in Norway's Fjords in September?
Cool, highs near 58F (14C), wetter.
Is Norway's Fjords crowded in September?
Crowds in Norway's Fjords are moderate in September; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Norway's Fjords in September?
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 September
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