May is a remarkable month for visiting Norway’s fjords. Sandwiched between Easter and the Summer Solstice, this is the time to take advantage of longer days, blooming flowers, and rushing waterfalls like the Seven Sisters. You can also join locals as they celebrate Norway’s biggest holiday: Constitution Day.
The fjords of Norway in May offer a truly enchanting experience, a time when nature awakens from its winter slumber and the landscapes burst into vibrant life. With generally mild weather prevailing, it’s a particularly wonderful time to explore the country’s impressive collection of over 1,000 fjords. Imagine witnessing nature’s grand reawakening, where flowers blossom in a kaleidoscope of colors, bright greenery carpets the hillsides, and energized waterfalls cascade down the cliffs, creating a warm and invigorating atmosphere. This is a period when the entire country gears up for the peak tourist season, brimming with anticipation and a palpable sense of joy.
The southern coastal areas of Norway’s fjords tend to enjoy the highest temperatures during this time. To illustrate, consider Flåm, a picturesque village nestled along the shores of the Sognefjord. In May, Flåm experiences average high temperatures of around 60° Fahrenheit, with average lows hovering around 44° Fahrenheit. This creates a comfortable climate ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying the stunning scenery.
However, the fjords situated north of the Arctic Circle present a slightly different story. This region is known for its more unpredictable weather patterns. In these northern reaches, you might find yourself experiencing the transition from winter to spring, or even the reverse, within a matter of just a few hours. A prime example of this variability is Tromsø. This city experiences average highs of 48° Fahrenheit and lows of 37° Fahrenheit in May. Therefore, it is important to be well prepared for potentially cold and unpredictable weather.
Regardless of which specific area of the fjords graces your travel bucket list, a crucial piece of advice is to come prepared with layers of clothing. This layering approach allows you to adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. A waterproof jacket is also an essential item, as rain showers can occur unexpectedly. Furthermore, comfortable walking shoes with a solid grip are paramount, as you’ll likely encounter various types of terrain during your explorations. These sturdy shoes will ensure your comfort and safety, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the fjords.
May stands out as an excellent month for visiting Norway’s fjords, not only for the pleasant weather but also for the attractive hotel rates and airfares. In fact, many seasoned travelers argue that May is the most picturesque and agreeable month to experience the fjords. One of the significant advantages of visiting in May is that you’re less likely to encounter throngs of fellow travelers. This is especially true when compared to June, a month characterized by a plethora of festivals celebrating the longest day of the year, which naturally draws larger crowds.
The reduced crowds in May translate to a more relaxed and intimate experience of the fjords, allowing you to connect with the natural surroundings on a deeper level.
May truly represents a sweet spot in Norway’s fjords, offering visitors more freedom and space to truly appreciate the breathtaking scenery. This translates to lighter traffic on the roads, making travel by car much more enjoyable. Furthermore, you’ll encounter fewer crowds at the various UNESCO-listed attractions and popular hiking trails, allowing for a more serene and unhurried exploration of these iconic sites. In addition, May often offers better availability of historic hotels located in the charming fjord-side villages. These hotels provide a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the local culture.
For a taste of the classic fjord experience, consider a quick yet unforgettable journey between Oslo and Bergen, two of Norway’s most vibrant cities. This journey can include a scenic ferry ride on the magnificent Sognefjord, allowing you to witness its grandeur from a unique perspective. Alternatively, you can opt for a slower pace and venture deeper into the lesser-known fjords with a self-guided road trip. This allows you the flexibility to explore hidden gems and discover the authentic character of the region.
A particularly fun detour from the Geirangerfjord is the renowned Trollstigen Road, a true masterpiece of engineering and widely regarded as Norway’s most visited tourist road. The Trollstigen Road’s hairpin turns and stunning views make it a thrilling and memorable experience. In fact, May is an excellent time for a self-drive tour, as the long daylight hours and relatively few tourists clogging the roads create ideal conditions for exploration.
For those planning longer trips, consider setting sail on a Hurtigruten cruise. This offers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic west coast of Norway and enjoy shore excursions in places that are otherwise difficult to access, such as the captivating Lofoten Islands. A Hurtigruten cruise provides a comfortable and convenient way to experience the remote beauty of the Norwegian coastline.
The fjords in May offer a wealth of cultural and outdoor recreational activities to choose from. For example, the region boasts a variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranging from historic city neighborhoods in Bergen to ancient wooden stave churches dating back to the 13th century. You can also explore popular fjords like the Naeroyfjord, a narrow and dramatic passageway characterized by tiny farms clinging precariously to the steep mountainsides.
As for experiencing the fjords from the water, you’ll find a multitude of options. Choose from numerous ferry and fjord cruise options, allowing you to admire the scenery from a comfortable vantage point. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak and embark on a guided tour, providing a more intimate and immersive experience of the waterways. For wildlife enthusiasts, opportunities abound for whale watching and fishing for cod. And don’t forget the Codstock Celebration (described further below) for a truly unique experience. If photography is your passion, a drive around the charming fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands is a must. Here, you’ll encounter the iconic traditional red *rorbuer* huts, dotted along the dramatic coastline, providing endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.
The fjords are also replete with hiking trails and national parks, offering a wide range of options for outdoor adventures. May is a particularly great time to accomplish mega-popular and challenging treks like Pulpit Rock and Troll’s Tongue, before the summer crowds arrive in full force.
Several exciting events take place in Norway during the month of May.
**Constitution Day:** Celebrated annually on May 17th, this national holiday commemorates Norway’s independence with the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814. Celebrations are held throughout the country, catering to all ages, and typically include parades, parties, festive attire, concerts, and vendors.
**Bergen International Festival (Bergen Festspill):** Starting in late May, this prestigious two-week music event, one of the largest in Scandinavia, presents a diverse program of classical music, ballet, opera, and theater, featuring both Norwegian and international artists at various venues around Bergen.
**Stavanger Jazz Festival:** Located close to Bergen, another noteworthy international music festival takes place over five days in early May, showcasing talented jazz musicians from around the globe.
**Codstock Celebration:** In mid-May, make your way to the town of Henningsvær in the Lofoten Islands for a unique three-day celebration of local cod and live music, held before the peak summer tourist season commences.
If you’re planning a trip to Norway in May, consider these suggested itineraries:
**Explore Bergen, Fjords & Waterfalls:** This delightful five-day itinerary begins in Bergen, the country’s second-largest city and home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have ample time to explore the city’s charming streets and surrounding mountains, both independently and with a knowledgeable local guide. From Bergen, embark on two captivating day trips, including a scenic train ride, a ferry journey through the longest fjord in Norway, and a fjord cruise to breathtaking waterfalls. After each day’s adventure, you’ll return to Bergen to enjoy its excellent restaurants and vibrant nightlife.
**Norway Scenic Road Trip:** This comprehensive loop begins and ends in Oslo, covering a diverse array of landscapes as you traverse three of Norway’s official scenic routes. First, travel to a former Olympic village and two national parks teeming with wildlife. Then, head west for hiking and boating in the fjords. Enjoy a two-night stay in the art nouveau city of Ålesund before swinging back towards Jotunheimen National Park. Finally, conclude your journey in the alpine village of Lom, home to one of the best restaurants and bakeries in Norway.
B-1921