February

Weather in Norway in February: A Traveler’s Guide ❄️

February in Norway is a month of deep winter, offering travelers a chance to experience the country’s iconic snowy landscapes, Northern Lights, and winter sports. However, temperatures can be harsh, especially in the north, so packing appropriately is essential. Below, we break down what to expect weather-wise and how to make the most of your February trip.

Climate Overview 🌡️

Norway’s climate varies significantly by region in February:

  • Northern Norway (Tromsø, Lofoten, Alta):
    • Average temperatures: -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), but can drop below -20°C (-4°F).
    • Snow cover: Heavy, with excellent conditions for skiing and dog sledding.
    • Daylight: Limited (4–6 hours), but ideal for Northern Lights viewing.
  • Central & Southern Norway (Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim):
    • Average temperatures: -2°C to -10°C (28°F to 14°F).
    • Snowfall: Common, especially in inland areas. Coastal regions (like Bergen) may see rain.
    • Daylight: 8–10 hours, increasing toward the end of the month.
  • Svalbard (Longyearbyen):
    • Polar night ends in mid-February, but it remains extremely cold (-10°C to -20°C / 14°F to -4°F).

For a deeper dive into Norway’s climate zones, see our Norway Climate Guide.

What to Pack 🧳

Norway’s February weather demands layered clothing:

✔ Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)
✔ Insulated winter jacket (windproof & waterproof)
✔ Wool socks & waterproof boots
✔ Gloves, hat, and scarf (essential to avoid frostbite)
✔ Hand warmers (for extended outdoor activities)

Pro tip: If visiting the Arctic, consider thermal overalls for extra warmth.

Best Activities in February ⛷️

  1. Northern Lights Hunting 🌌
    • Best seen in Tromsø, Alta, or Lofoten.
    • Book a guided tour for optimal viewing.
  2. Winter Sports 🎿
    • Downhill skiing in Trysil or Hemsedal.
    • Cross-country skiing in Oslo’s Nordmarka.
  3. Dog Sledding & Snowmobiling 🛷
    • Popular in Finnmark and Svalbard.
  4. Ice Fishing & Snowshoeing 🎣
    • Try frozen lakes in Rondane National Park.

For seasonal travel tips, check our Best Time to Visit Norway guide.

Travel Considerations ⚠️

  • Road conditions: Many mountain passes close; use winter tires or trains.
  • Limited daylight: Plan outdoor activities for midday.
  • Festivals:
    • Røros Winter Fair (traditional market in a UNESCO-listed town).
    • Northern Lights Festival (Tromsø, late January–early February).

February vs. Other Winter Months 📅

Month Avg. Temp (°C) Daylight Hours Key Highlights
December -3°C to -10°C 4–6 (North) Polar Night, Christmas Markets
January -5°C to -15°C 5–7 (North) Peak winter, fewer crowds
February -5°C to -15°C 6–10 (North) More daylight, Northern Lights
March -2°C to -10°C 10–12 (North) Start of spring skiing

Compare with March weather or January weather.

Final Tips ✅

  • Book accommodations early (popular for Northern Lights tourism).
  • Rent a car with studded tires if driving.
  • Check aurora forecasts (apps like Aurora Forecast help).

Norway in February is magical but demanding—come prepared! For more details, explore our monthly guides.

🌨️ Safe travels! 🌨️

Basic Information About February

Feature Details
Average Temperature Range varies from -10°C to 0°C, depending on location
Daylight Hours Approximately 7 to 10 hours of daylight
Precipitation Moderate snowfall, with some rain possible
Average Snow Cover Heavy snow cover in many regions, especially in the north
Weather Conditions Cold, often windy, with frequent snowstorms
Festivals & Events Celebrations related to winter sports and cultural festivals
Typical Activities Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and winter hiking
Wildlife Presence of winter-adapted animals like reindeer and Arctic foxes
Travel Tips Prepare for cold weather, use appropriate clothing, and be cautious of icy roads
Average Day Temperature Typically around -5°C to -1°C in coastal areas

February Weather FAQ for Norway

Question Answer
What is the typical temperature range in Norway during February? Temperatures generally range from -10°C to 0°C, with colder conditions in northern regions.
Does Norway experience snow in February? Yes, snow is common across most parts of Norway during February, especially in inland and northern areas.
What are the daylight hours like in February? Daylight increases throughout February, with northern regions still experiencing polar night at the start, but gaining several hours of daylight by month’s end.
Is it a good time for winter sports in Norway? Yes, February is ideal for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing due to reliable snow conditions.
Are there any weather hazards to be aware of in February? Heavy snowstorms and icy conditions can occur, making travel difficult in some areas.
What is the average precipitation in February? Precipitation varies, but coastal areas tend to be wetter, with snow being the predominant form of precipitation.
How does the weather in February affect travel plans? Weather can be unpredictable with snow and storms, so it’s advisable to check local conditions before traveling.
Are there any festivals or events in Norway in February? Yes, February hosts winter festivals, Sami cultural events, and celebrations like the Tromsø International Film Festival.
What clothing is recommended for visiting Norway in February? Warm, layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, insulated boots, gloves, and hats are recommended due to cold temperatures and snow.

  • Climate of Norway – An overview of Norway’s climate patterns, including winter conditions typical in February.
  • Norwegian Winter – Information on winter activities and weather conditions in Norway during February.
  • Meteorological Data – Norwegian Meteorological Institute’s official site with weather statistics and forecasts.
  • Weather History Norway – Historical weather data for Norway, including February climate trends.