There’s really no bad time to take escorted tours of Norway—the country is stunning year-round. However, if you’re hoping for warmer temperatures and a possible glimpse at the renowned midnight sun, summertime is a great season to take Norway group tours. Just keep in mind that it's a popular time to visit, so prices are higher and crowds are bigger.

The off-seasons, spring and fall, are great times to book Norway tour packages if you’re looking for fewer crowds and (hopefully) more sunny days. Snowmelt in the spring means waterfalls and rivers will be at their peak, which makes cruising along the fjords even more spectacular.

The famous northern lights can be seen when Norway’s skies are at their darkest, which is during the winter months. However, the snow, rainfall, and cloudy skies from December through February make this a less-than-ideal time to take Norway group tours. Instead, opt for Norway tour packages that depart in March or from September through October, when the skies are still relatively dark, to seek out the aurora borealis.

Of all the beautiful things to see on trips to Norway, the fjord region is one of the most spectacular. Set off on our Highlights of Scandinavia: Sweden, Norway & Denmark tour to see just what we mean! Cruising through the narrow waterways while admiring soaring mountains, cascading waterfalls, and cliffside villages like Flåm is the best way to explore this otherworldly landscape. Embark on one of our fjord region tours to get an up-close look at Norway's spectacular scenery alongside local experts.

Go beyond the fjord region to discover stunning, historic cities on Norway tours. The capital of Bergen is home a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bryggen district and city center, and you can learn about Viking history inside Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum.

One of the best things about going on Norway guided tours is digging into the cuisine. Typical meals often incorporate grains, locally-produced cheeses, fresh produce, and wild berries. Plus, thanks to an extensive coastline, there are plenty of seafood dishes for travelers to enjoy on Norway tours. Here are some of the varied dishes you can try on trips to Norway.

• Everything from smoked salmon and shellfish to pickled herring and scrod
• Lamb is the most traditional meat, but other classic Norwegian dishes also feature goose and deer
• Polse, which are boiled Norwegian hotdogs served in a thin tortilla with vegetables and sauces (they are a relatively cheap snack and are readily available in Oslo on Norway tours!)
• Open-faced sandwiches called smørbrød are also popular, and feature favorites like smoked fish, shrimp, or cheese
• Potato dumplings called kumla
• Lefse, a sweetened flatbread topped with butter, sugar, and cinnamon

No matter the season, you’re likely to experience all types of weather on escorted tours of Norway, so packing the essentials is important. Rain is not uncommon, so bringing layers is a sure way to be prepared in case the temperature changes or it starts to rain. A waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes are a must, and scarves comes in handy.

Scandinavians typically wear laid-back, functional clothing, and one favorite material is wool. Fit in with the locals on Norway guided tours and be ready while you're out exploring by packing a wool sweater. Norwegians also enjoy sitting outside even on chilly days; layer up and take in the local scene at outdoor cafes and beyond while on Norway small group tours.