Norway experiences surge in tourism as travelers seek cooler temperatures from extreme heat

Norway is experiencing a surge in tourism from nations grappling with extreme heat, as travelers seek cooler temperatures for their vacations. This trend has been dubbed “coolcation,” referring to the practice of visiting chillier destinations to escape unbearable warmth. According to a travel website, Norway has been highlighted as the top “coolcation” destination in Europe.

The weakened Norwegian krone is also contributing to the rise in tourism. Officials from Visit Lillehammer have confirmed that they are noticing a shift in the types of tourists visiting the region, with an increase in visitors from warmer climates. Statistics reveal that from 2022 to 2023, there has been a notable rise in arrivals from countries with hotter weather than Norway.

Tourists, like Pamela and Brian Hicks from South Carolina, USA, have expressed satisfaction with Norway’s mild summer temperatures, which typically range from 20 to 23 degrees Celsius. They compare this to the sweltering heat they experience at home, where summer temperatures can reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius.

Experts believe that the ongoing effects of climate change and heatwaves in southern Europe are driving this trend. As extreme weather becomes more common, regions like Norway offer a refreshing alternative, appealing to those looking to escape the heat. Additionally, climate researchers highlight that northern Europe may experience increased rainfall during the summer, contrasting with the arid conditions predicted for southern Europe in the future.