Norway in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Norway
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak waterfall season - snowmelt creates thundering cascades at 200% normal volume, making attractions like Vøringfossen and Steinsdalsfossen spectacular
- Extended daylight reaches 18-19 hours by late May, giving you massive amounts of sightseeing time and the famous white nights experience
- Hiking season opens on mid-elevation trails (500-800m/1,640-2,625ft) with wildflowers blooming and comfortable temperatures for trekking
- Tourist crowds are still manageable - 40% fewer visitors than peak summer, meaning shorter queues at attractions and easier accommodation booking
Considerations
- Weather is highly unpredictable - you can experience 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) temperature swings in a single day, requiring multiple clothing layers
- Many high-altitude attractions remain closed - mountain roads like Trollstigen and Dalsnibba typically don't open until late May or early June
- Rain is frequent and sudden - expect 15 rainy days with afternoon showers that can last 2-4 hours and disrupt outdoor plans
Best Activities in May
Fjord Cruises in Geiranger and Nærøyfjord
May offers perfect fjord conditions with dramatic waterfalls at peak flow from snowmelt. Weather is mild enough for deck viewing (12-16°C/54-61°F) but pack windproof layers. Tourist boats run full schedules but aren't yet packed with summer crowds. The contrast between snow-capped peaks and green valleys is most striking in May.
Bergen and Coastal City Exploration
May is ideal for Bergen's outdoor fish market and historic Bryggen district before summer tourist swarms arrive. Weather averages 15°C (59°F) - perfect for walking tours. The city's 200+ rainy days means locals know the best covered markets and indoor attractions. Coastal ferry schedules are fully operational but not overcrowded.
Northern Lights and Midnight Sun Transition in Tromsø
Late May offers the unique experience of 24-hour daylight in Tromsø - the last chance to see the midnight sun without peak summer prices. Activities like midnight hiking and Arctic wildlife viewing are comfortable in 8-12°C (46-54°F) temperatures. Cable car operations resume full schedules with extended hours.
Lofoten Islands Hiking and Photography
May transforms Lofoten with lupine flowers blooming and temperatures reaching 12-15°C (54-59°F) - ideal for the famous hiking trails like Reinebringen. Tourist infrastructure fully opens but crowds are 50% of summer levels. Perfect lighting conditions with 20+ hours of daylight for photography.
Oslo Museum and Urban Exploration
May weather in Oslo averages 16°C (61°F) - perfect for mixing outdoor sculpture parks like Vigeland with world-class museums during frequent rain showers. Outdoor cafes and markets open for the season. The city's extensive indoor attractions provide perfect rainy day alternatives.
Atlantic Road and Scenic Driving Routes
May offers ideal conditions for Norway's famous scenic drives - most routes are fully open, weather is mild enough for frequent photo stops, and visibility is excellent. The Atlantic Road's famous bridges are dramatic in May's changeable weather conditions. Rental car demand is moderate, keeping prices reasonable.
May Events & Festivals
Constitution Day (Syttende Mai)
Norway's National Day on May 17th features massive parades, traditional folk costumes (bunads), and family celebrations throughout the country. Oslo's parade down Karl Johans gate is the largest, with 50,000+ participants. Expect crowds but incredible cultural immersion.
Bergen International Festival
Scandinavia's largest arts festival runs throughout May with 300+ performances including classical music, dance, and theater. Many venues are historic buildings offering intimate concert experiences. Book individual performances as full festival passes sell out.