Oslo

Oslo Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Oslo.

Climate overview of Oslo

Many people picture Oslo as being a cold place to visit, but Oslo's temperatures are rather moderate for a city located as far north as it is. The average winter temperature in Oslo is only about -2°C (28°F), which is a bit warmer than the winter temperatures of most American and some European cities. Visitors however should be prepared for frost from late October until late March/early April. Only occasionally there is deep frost below -15°C (5°F).

During summer Oslo is pleasantly warm. Occasionally Oslo experience heat waves from May to August with temperatures up to 33°C (91°F). Oslo is not particularly rainy, but rain is seen throughout the year.

Oslo Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Oslo - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Oslo

In Oslo, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 22°C (72°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold -1°C (30°F) during cooler months like January.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in July to around -7°C (19°F) during January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Oslo

On average, Oslo receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 982 mm (39 in). While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. August brings wetter days averaging 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation, spread over 16 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month March experiences a drier climate, with about 54 mm (2.1 in) of snow/rainfall spread across 14 snowy/rainy days. For more details, please visit our Oslo Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Oslo

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Oslo. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.0 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 1.3 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Water Temperature in Oslo

The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 2°C (36°F) in February to 16°C (61°F) in July.

Water temperature over the year

Humidity in Oslo by Month

Wind Speed in Oslo

Best Time to Visit Oslo

For comfortable weather, consider visiting Oslo in June, July and August. Conditions are usually least favourable in January, February, March, April, October, November and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: June, July and August
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: May, June and July
  • Fewer rainy days: February, March, April, May and June
  • Warmest water temperature: July and August, although the water may still feel cool.
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -7°C (19°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Oslo

What is the best time to visit Oslo?

June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Oslo. In contrast, January, February, March, April, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Oslo has warm summers and very cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Oslo?

Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -7°C (19°F) to 12°C (54°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Oslo get?

Annual rainfall is around 982 mm (39 in). August is the wettest month with 112 mm (4.4 in), while March is the driest with 54 mm (2.1 in).

How sunny is Oslo?

Oslo receives around 1,676 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 241 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 39 hours.

Oslo 3-Day Forecast

Oslo on the map

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