Overview of Northern Europe's weather
Located in the northern part of Europe, within the Eurasian continent, Northern Europe features ancient glacial landscapes bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The southern and eastern regions, comprising islands and peninsulas, are adjacent to several Western and Eastern European nations.
Currently, Northern Europe consists of 10 countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, and the United Kingdom. Each is often described with accolades such as a tourist paradise, a land of happiness, or a picturesque nation.

When is the best time to visit Northern Europe? (Photo: @bsop.com)
Located at the highest latitudes in Europe, much of this region falls within the temperate climate zone, characterized by cold winters, cool summers, and relatively low rainfall. However, the northern peninsula of Northern Europe lies in the polar and subpolar climate zones, experiencing freezing temperatures year-round.
This partly explains the differences between the eastern and western sides of the Scandinavian range. While countries like Sweden and Finland on the eastern side see snowfall as early as October, the western side, including Norway, remains relatively mild during the same period.
When is the best time to visit Northern Europe?
According to European travel experiences, it's challenging to pinpoint the best season to visit Northern Europe, as each of the four seasons offers unique beauty and fascinating experiences for travelers to explore and immerse themselves in.
Spring
- Timeframe: March - May.
- Average temperature: 6 - 20°C.
As the 'snow coats' melt away, flowers bloom, and Northern Europe welcomes the first warm rays of spring, a peaceful and serene rhythm of life begins. During this period, the region transitions to daylight saving time, resulting in longer, sunnier days. The clear, dry weather is perfect for activities such as:
- Strolling through streets adorned with cherry blossoms in Sweden and Denmark, enjoying the sight of petals dancing in the breeze.
- Cycling through vast fields of yellow rapeseed flowers, savoring the fragrance and fresh air.
- Marveling at and immersing yourself in endless lavender fields in the UK.
Spring, influenced by the melting snow, still retains a chilly atmosphere. Travelers should prepare warm clothing, such as thin sweaters, jackets, gloves, and scarves, while opting for darker-colored outfits to avoid stains.

When is the best time to visit Northern Europe? - The warm spring season (Photo: @sulistudios)
Summer
- Timeframe: June - August.
- Average temperature: 15 - 28°C.
Known as the land where the light never fades, Northern Europe in summer experiences almost no darkness. The weather is pleasant, with cool, clear skies, minimal rain, and lush landscapes that create a truly poetic scenery.
During summer, days are longer than nights, with sunlight lasting nearly all day. This makes it the perfect season for outdoor activities, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views:
- Kayaking to explore the breathtaking lakes and fjords of Geirangerfjord, Norway.
- Experiencing the magical midnight sun, with nearly 24 hours of daylight in Faroe, Oslo, Stockholm, and more.
- Engaging in beachside activities or embarking on a luxurious 5-star cruise with Silja Line or DFDS to tour Northern Europe.
Monitoring European weather reveals that Northern Europe's summers are generally cool, so packing light, breathable, and comfortable clothing is essential. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor activities.

The perfect summer is the answer to when is the best time to visit Northern Europe (Photo: @asasteinars)
Autumn
- Timeframe: September - November.
- Average temperature: 15 - 20°C.
When asked about the best time to visit Northern Europe, many travelers would choose autumn. During this season, visitors can immerse themselves in a romantic Northern Europe, where the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of golden and red leaves.
As autumn arrives, rainfall becomes more frequent. The already ancient atmosphere grows even more serene and tranquil. In late autumn, the sunlight weakens, filtering through the red and golden leaves, creating a heart-stirringly beautiful scene.
Travelers can fully enjoy the autumn season through activities such as:
- Strolling along chilly streets, admiring rows of golden and red leaves carpeting the ground in Sweden, Finland, and more.
- Trekking through forest trails and mountain paths, soaking in the vibrant red and golden hues of nature at Djurgården in Sweden and Kirkjufell in Iceland.
Prepare warm clothing, a rain umbrella, and always carry a light jacket in case temperatures drop further at night.

When is the best time to visit Northern Europe? - Autumn (Photo: @sophiabergholm)
Winter
- Timeframe: December - February.
- Average temperature: -20 - 13°C.
In Northern Europe, winter blankets rooftops, mountains, and forests in pristine snow, creating a scene that is both romantic and magical. The season is often bitterly cold, with frequent rain and heavy snowfall. However, this doesn’t make the region gloomy; instead, it offers breathtaking natural landscapes.
Travelers can seize the opportunity to enjoy unique experiences such as:
- Witnessing the mesmerizing and majestic Northern Lights in Finland, Norway, and Sweden.
- Participating in outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding at popular tourist spots.
- Exploring ice caves and trying ice fishing on frozen rivers in Iceland.
- Immersing in the vibrant and cozy Christmas atmosphere in cities across Northern Europe.
When traveling to Northern Europe in winter, visitors should pack thick clothing, warm socks, gloves, woolen hats, and scarves. It’s especially important to wear waterproof, non-slip boots designed for walking on ice and snow.

Traveling to Northern Europe in winter (Photo: @visitbergen)
So, when is the best time to visit Northern Europe? The answer might be autumn, with its vibrant golden and red leaves and cool, refreshing weather. This is also the peak tourist season in Northern Europe. However, depending on your preferences and travel goals, you can choose the most suitable time for your trip.
Top tourist attractions in Northern Europe
Northern Europe is renowned for its picturesque natural beauty, rich cultural history, and ancient architectural wonders. As we continue our journey to answer the question of when is the best time to visit Northern Europe, let’s explore four of the most famous countries in the region with Mytour.
Denmark
Denmark, often celebrated as one of the most romantic and happiest countries in Northern Europe, is a favorite among travelers on European tours. Here, you can visit the capital, Copenhagen, with its historic castles, the peaceful Old Towns, or Helsingør, a city showcasing the finest Nordic architecture.
One of the most iconic cultural symbols in Denmark is Den lille havfrue, also known as the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen. Additionally, visitors can explore other famous landmarks in the Danish capital, such as Christiansborg Palace, Amalienborg Palace, Charlottenborg, and Tivoli, the world’s oldest amusement park.
If Copenhagen is likened to a colorful fairy tale, the Old Towns are the serene, picturesque villages that add charm to Denmark’s heart. True to its name, this village is famous for its traditional wooden houses, nestled closely along peaceful, dreamy streets.

Denmark, romantic and serene (Photo: @mursidetuncel)
Finland
Finland, the land of the midnight sun, offers travelers a full spectrum of experiences, from the modern rhythm of Helsinki to the historic charm of Turku by the Baltic Sea, and the magical home of Santa Claus in Lapland. This is why Finland is a favorite destination in 10-day, 9-night European tours.
Captivating visitors from the very first moment is the ancient city of Turku, a destination exuding tranquility and calm. Travelers to Turku can visit the Sibelius Museum of Music by the Aura River or admire the majestic Ruissalo National Forest, which glows red in autumn and is blanketed in snow during winter.
Additionally, the homeland of Santa Claus, Lapland, offers an extraordinary experience. Beyond its pristine landscapes, unique glaciers, and majestic forests, Lapland is the perfect location to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Finland, sparkling and magical (Photo: @apukkaresort)
Norway
Like Finland, Norway captivates visitors not only with its vibrant cities but also with its untouched highland beauty, breathtaking fjords, and the iconic Atlantic Ocean Road.
Visiting Oslo, the oldest capital in Scandinavia, travelers can immerse themselves not only in the vibrant city life and towering skyscrapers but also in its rich historical heritage. Over centuries, Oslo has preserved its European cultural and architectural legacy, including landmarks like the ancient Bergenhus Fortress, Rosenkrantz Tower, and the stunning Saint Mary's Church.
Beyond its grand and majestic structures, Norway is also famous for its untouched natural beauty and a network of over 1,000 dramatic fjords with towering cliffs along the coastline. Among these, Geiranger is hailed as the most magnificent glacial fjord in the world.

Norway, wild and majestic (Photo: @koalamarty)
Sweden
Visiting Sweden during a Northern Europe trip is a journey of discovering simplicity and immersing oneself in nature through every street and home.
With one-third of its area covered by water, Stockholm, the largest city in Scandinavia, is renowned for its structure formed by 14 islands, creating picturesque bridges and canals. Strolling through the Old Town, Gamla Stan, visitors can easily encounter alleys rich in medieval architecture blended with Renaissance influences, all contributing to a magical fairy-tale scene.
If Stockholm doesn’t fully convey the essence of ancient European architecture, a visit to the medieval town of Visby is a must. Visby stands as a timeless monument, where architectural structures and traditional houses have been preserved intact for centuries.

Sweden, ancient and peaceful (Photo: @stockholm.explore)
Most exciting seasonal festivals in Northern Europe
After noting down the best time to visit Northern Europe, don’t forget to explore the region’s most captivating seasonal festivals:
Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival, Iceland
One of Iceland’s most famous events, the Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival, is an annual celebration that combines magical light displays with unique entertainment and art. If you’re planning a European tour from Hanoi, consider visiting in February to experience this festival.
- Time: February.
- Location: Reykjavik, Iceland.
- Ticket price: Free.

Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival, Iceland (Photo: @icelandtravel)
Roskilde Festival Denmark - A Summer Music Festival
The largest music festival in Northern Europe, Roskilde Festival, is not only a gathering for music lovers worldwide but also an opportunity to experience innovative contemporary art and participate in community-driven activities that contribute to economic and social growth.
- Time: July.
- Location: Roskilde, Denmark.
- Ticket price: Free.
Kekri Finland - A Captivating Northern European Autumn Festival
Kekri is one of the traditional festivals held annually in autumn. Beyond celebrating a bountiful harvest, it is also believed to be a time when the spirits of the deceased return to the earthly realm.
- Time: November 1st.
- Location: Karelian and Tver Karelian villages, Finland.
- Ticket price: Free.
Christmas Light Festival - A Winter Celebration
Known as the home of Santa Claus, Christmas in Northern Europe is truly remarkable. Copenhagen, in particular, hosts one of Europe’s largest Christmas Light Festivals. Adorned with millions of dazzling lights, the Danish capital comes alive with concerts and vibrant cultural and artistic activities.
- Event Duration: November 24th to January 2nd.
- Location: Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Admission: Free of charge.

Nordic Christmas Light Festival (Photo: @la.posh.art)
What to eat while traveling in Northern Europe?
In addition to exploring the best time to visit Northern Europe, what to eat in this region is also a topic of great interest. Join Mytour in discovering 5 iconic dishes that represent the culinary culture of Europe - Northern Europe below.
Norwegian Salmon
When Norway is mentioned, salmon often comes to mind—a globally renowned delicacy celebrated for its freshness, delightful flavor, and nutritional richness. In this region, it is commonly prepared in various dishes such as grilled salmon, pan-seared salmon, sashimi, and more.

Norwegian Salmon (Photo: @thecozycook)
Swedish Salted Herring
Swedish cuisine consistently emphasizes the importance of ingredient origins and nutritional value. Among its offerings, fermented herring (Surströmming) stands out as a unique culinary experience for adventurous travelers booking European tours from Ho Chi Minh City. Unlike dishes with pleasant aromas, Swedish fermented herring is known for its pungent smell, yet it leaves a lasting impression on anyone who dares to try it.
Danish Frikadeller Meatballs
Next on the journey to explore Nordic cuisine is Denmark's Frikadeller meatballs. This seemingly simple dish is typically made from pork, beef, or lamb, but its distinctive flavor comes from a perfect blend of ingredients like breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, and onions.

Danish Frikadeller Meatballs (Photo: @vegan_by_woldby)
Icelandic Roast Lamb
A popular dish easily found from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Icelandic lamb is typically made from fresh ingredients and roasted in geothermal ovens underground. This traditional cooking method not only simplifies preparation but also gives the lamb a uniquely aromatic and crispy flavor.
Finnish Reindeer Meat
Reindeer meat, or Poronkaristys, is a unique and popular dish in Finland that travelers should not miss. Similar to venison, reindeer meat is known for its fragrant, tender, and slightly chewy texture. This famous dish is often prepared fresh, salted, or smoked.

Finnish Reindeer Poronkaristys (Photo: @justanotherfoodiegram)
Seasonal Travel Tips for Northern Europe
To ensure a smooth journey while exploring the best time to visit Northern Europe, travelers should consider the following details:
- Travel Timing: Once you've determined the best season to visit Northern Europe, align your plans with your personal schedule. For instance, if you wish to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights or enjoy vibrant Christmas festivities in Santa Claus's homeland, plan your trip around late December and New Year to make the most of your holiday.
- Time Zone Awareness: Northern Europe operates on two distinct time zones—summer and winter. Additionally, time differences between countries in the region range from 1 to 2 hours, typically 6 to 7 hours behind Vietnam. For example, if it's 5 AM in Norway (UTC +1), it's already 6 AM in Finland (UTC +2). Adjusting to these time changes is crucial for maintaining good health and energy during your trip.
- Early Booking: Thanks to its natural beauty, Northern Europe attracts tourists year-round. Booking services early not only ensures a smoother journey but also secures better accommodation options. A helpful tip is to consider staying in suburban areas near major cities to save costs. The region's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to access popular attractions.
- Currency Exchange: Northern European countries use different currencies, so plan ahead and exchange money based on your itinerary. Given the high cost of living in the region, if you've booked a comprehensive tour and only need cash for personal expenses, consider exchanging around 20 - 30 million VND.
Below are some currencies and their exchange rates against VND:
Đất nước | Loại tiền tệ | Tỷ giá chuyển đổi VNĐ |
---|---|---|
Đan Mạch |
Đồng Krone Đan Mạch (DKK) |
1 DKK = 3.550 VNĐ |
Na Uy |
Đồng Krone Na Uy (NOK) |
1 NOK = 2.297 VNĐ |
Thụy Điển |
Đồng Krona Thụy Điển (SEK) |
1 SEK = 2.303 VNĐ |
Iceland |
Đồng Krona Iceland (ISK) |
1 ISK = 182 VNĐ |
Anh Quốc |
Bảng Anh (GBP) |
1 GBP = 31.860 VNĐ |
Phần Lan, Estonia, Ireland, Latvia, Litva |
Euro (EUR) |
1 EUR = 26.800 VNĐ |
Currencies of Northern European countries and their exchange rates as of now
- Purchase a SIM card: European SIM cards work in most Northern European countries. Buy one in Vietnam and activate it upon landing to stay connected.
- Visa considerations: Traveling to Northern Europe requires a Schengen visa, which allows entry into EU and EEA countries. However, separate visas are needed for the UK and Ireland.
- Respect local culture: Northern Europeans value personal space, so be polite, avoid loud noises, and follow queue rules. Adhere to site-specific guidelines, maintain cleanliness, and sort waste properly.

When is the best time to visit Northern Europe? Detailed travel tips (Photo: @fktnikolett)
We hope this guide helps you answer the question, when is the best time to visit Northern Europe. From serene towns and magical Northern Lights to stunning fjords, explore Mytour's all-inclusive Northern Europe tours for assistance today.
Author: Dung Nguyen
Image Source: Internet