A holiday to Norway in May is all about good food and even better views. Enjoy the flourishing landscapes and quieter hiking trails before the busy summer crowds. Sample fresh seafood in Bergen and celebrate Norway’s National Day, or delve into Trondheim’s music scene at the city’s annual Jazz Festival. For outdoor lovers, Lofoten awaits. Embark on a sea eagle safari, kayak through the fjords or marvel at the Midnight Sun. Already planning your trip? Read on for more ideas on what to do in Norway in May...
- For seasonal food
- For sea eagle safaris
- For the music scene
- For kayaking through the fjords
- For the Midnight Sun
For seasonal food
First up on our list of reasons to visit Norway in May is for the food. And where better to savour the country's flavours than in beautiful Bergen, renowned for its fresh seafood? Time your trip for Syttende Mai (17th May), Norway’s National Day, when the country celebrates the 1814 constitution with parades, costumes and most importantly, delicious dishes. Festive buffets often feature lefserull (flatbread rolls with smoked salmon or sweet fillings like butter and cinnamon), fenalar (cured lamb) and rommegrot (sour cream porridge).
For a distinctive dining experience, our Europe specialist, Izzy, recommends the Cornelius Restaurant. Perched on a small island, a short boat ride from Bryggen, this restaurant focuses on traditional culinary techniques. The real highlight? The Meteorological Menu, which changes depending on the weather each day. Expect a rich selection of seafood and delicious desserts.
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For sea eagle safaris
May’s mild temperatures call for some wildlife watching, and Norway’s largest birds of prey are a must-see. Grab your binoculars and hop aboard a RIB boat for a sea eagle safari in Lofoten – an archipelago famous for its dramatic landscapes. Cruise through the Oyhellsundet strait, into Raftsundet before reaching tranquil Trollfjord – known for its towering mountains and powdery beaches. Need more convincing? One of our Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialists, Kate, experienced these majestic creatures up close and personal during her RIB safari in Vesteralen, just north of Lofoten, on a research trip to Norway.
Image by Melina Kiefer / Unsplash.com
For the music scene
Tune into Norway's music scene at the Trondheim Jazz Festival. Dating back to 1980, this annual event is held in May, with performances in cafés, bars and theatres across the city. Soak up the buzzing atmosphere and discover your new favourite artists, but don't forget to book in advance – the hotels fill up fast.
Another must for music lovers is a visit to the Ringve Music Museum, located just outside the city centre. The museum is housed in an 18th-century building and bordered by the Ringve Botanical Garden – quite the scenic setting – and is home to over 2,000 instruments from across the globe.
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For kayaking through the fjords
May is the ideal time to kayak along the scenic Norway fjords, with the landscape springing to life at this time of year. Vibrant cherry blossoms and soaring peaks border the shores, creating a beautiful backdrop. Enjoy an expertly guided kayaking tour in Vesteralen for the chance to spot white-tailed eagles and puffins or opt for a sunset kayaking experience in Lofoten’s Reinefjord, where photo-worthy views await. Make the most of May and the warmer months, as kayaking here is seasonal and not possible in the winter.
Image by Frank Andreassen / Visit Svalbard
For the Midnight Sun
Last but by no means least on our roundup of reasons to visit Norway in May is for the Midnight Sun. Inspiring writers and artists for generations, this stunning natural phenomenon provides 24-hour daylight to Northern Norway from late May to mid-July. Head north of the Arctic Circle to the Lofoten Islands and admire the archipelago in all its sun-kissed glory. This golden glow is a must-see for any photography enthusiasts and adventure-seekers – ideal for an evening hike with a view.
Image by EVERST/stock.adobe.com
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Oleh Slobodeniuk/Getty Images/iStockphoto
