Norway

Norway: general info for travelers

Norway is a Scandinavian country located in Northern Europe. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with fjords, glaciers, mountains, and forests that attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Norway is also known for its rich Viking history, as well as its modern cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. Norwegian culture is deeply rooted in traditions such as folk music, dance, and food, and the country is home to some of the world's happiest and friendliest people. Norway is also noted for being one of the most socially progressive and environmentally conscious countries on the planet.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Norway, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Norway: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Norway: 1. Bergen - It is a beautiful port city on Norway's southwestern coast, famous for its colorful wooden houses and its historic harbor district of Bryggen. It's a great place to explore the Hanseatic Museum, take a funicular up to Mount Fløyen, and see the fish market that’s been active for over 700 years.
2. Oslo - It is the capital of Norway and home to many of the country’s most famous museums and galleries. Visit The Viking Ship Museum, the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, and the Munch Museum. It's also worth strolling through the Royal Palace Park and the charming district of Frogner.
3. Tromsø - Located in the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is known as the Gateway to the Arctic and one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights between October and March. Other attractions include the Arctic Cathedral, the famous Fjellheisen cable car, and the Tromsø Museum.
4. Geirangerfjord - It is a stunning fjord in western Norway that boasts snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and tiny villages huddled at the water's edge. You can take a boat or kayak tour through the fjord to fully appreciate the natural beauty.
5. Lofoten Islands - It is an archipelago known for its dramatic scenery of jagged peaks, sheltered bays, and picturesque fishing villages. The wild landscapes here are ideal for hiking and cycling in the summer and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months.
6. The Jotunheimen National Park - It is home to the highest peak in northern Europe, the Galdhøpiggen, among other snow-capped mountains. It's an ideal spot for hiking and offers some of the most beautiful and peaceful nature spots in Norway.
7. The North Cape - It is the northernmost tip of mainland Europe. Visitors can see the midnight sun in the summer months and spot the Northern Lights in the winter. There are several attractions here, including the Nordkapphall Visitors Center and the nearby Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve.
These are just a few of the amazing places to visit in Norway. There are also many more stunning national parks, charming towns, and coastal cities that are well worth exploring.
There is more to see and do in Norway: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Norway: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Norway, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
The weather in Norway varies greatly by season and is influenced by the country's location in northern Europe. In general, summers (June - August) are the mildest and most popular time to visit Norway. During this time, the country enjoys long daylight hours, with the sun never fully setting in the northern regions. Temperatures are cool, usually ranging from around 10-20°C (50-68°F), with occasional warm spells. This is also the peak season for tourism, which means that prices may be higher and crowds may be more significant.
Winters (December - February) in Norway are quite cold and dark. However, they also offer the possibility of seeing the northern lights and skiing in the snow-covered mountains. Temperatures can fall well below freezing point, but the air is dry and still.
Spring (March - May) and fall (September - November) are less popular times to visit Norway, but they can provide unique experiences. During spring, you can watch the snowmelt, and colorful flowers cover the landscape. In the fall, you may see the stunning foliage, and the cooler temperatures make it the perfect time to go hiking.
Ultimately, the best time to go to Norway depends on what you want to do and see during your trip. If you plan to do winter activities like skiing and seeing the northern lights, then winter is the best time to visit. However, if you prefer long days, mild temperatures, and outdoor activities, then summer is the best time to visit Norway.

Norway: activities and what to do

Norway is a country famous for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Here are some popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Norway: 1. Hiking: Norway offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the world. The country is home to several national parks with hiking trails, including the iconic Trolltunga, Preikestolen, and Romsdalseggen.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding: Norway has a long skiing season, starting in November and ending in April. The country has several ski resorts that offer cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
3. Dog Sledding: Dog sledding is a popular winter activity in Norway. You can go on a dog sled ride and explore the beautiful Arctic wilderness.
4. Fishing: Norway has some of the best fishing spots in the world. You can go sea fishing and catch fish like salmon, haddock, and halibut.
5. Kayaking and Rafting: Norway is also known for its whitewater rafting and sea kayaking. You can paddle through beautiful fjords and rivers and experience the thrill of the rapids.
6. Cycling: Norway has several scenic cycling routes, including the Rallarvegen and the Atlantic Road. You can rent bikes and explore the beautiful countryside at your own pace.
7. Wildlife viewing: Norway is home to several wildlife species, including whales, seals, eagles, and reindeer. You can take a wildlife safari and observe these animals in their natural habitat.
I hope this list helps you plan your trip to Norway!

Norway: few words on history and culture

Norway is a Scandinavian country located in Northern Europe. The history of Norway dates back to the Viking Age, which lasted from the late 8th century to the mid-11th century. During this period, the Vikings were known for raiding and trading along the coasts of Europe, and they established settlements in various parts of the world, including Iceland, Greenland, and North America.
In the Middle Ages, Norway experienced a period of political instability, with power struggles between various regional leaders. However, in 1397, Norway entered into a union with Denmark and Sweden called the Kalmar Union. This lasted until 1814, when Norway declared independence and established a constitutional monarchy.
Norwegian culture is deeply rooted in the country's natural environment. Norway's fjords, mountains, and forests have influenced everything from its cuisine, music, and literature to its outdoor sports and recreational activities. Traditions such as skiing, hiking, and fishing are an integral part of Norwegian life.
Norwegian society is known for its progressive values, including gender equality, social welfare programs, and environmental awareness. The country is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with festivals, concerts, and museums showcasing everything from traditional folk art to contemporary design.

Norway: how to move around on holiday

Norway is well connected by air, rail, and road transportation. The most convenient way to reach Norway is by plane, and the country has several major airports including Oslo Gardermoen Airport, Bergen Flesland Airport, and Stavanger Sola Airport.
Once you are in Norway, the most common modes of transportation are public buses, trains, and ferries. Norway also has an extensive network of highways and scenic routes that make road trips popular among tourists.
Another popular and efficient mode of transportation is the Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage, which is a combination of a cruise and a ferry journey that offers breathtaking views of Norway's fjords and coastline.
Overall, the best means of transport to visit Norway would depend on your specific travel needs and preferences. To hire a car to visit Norway, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Norway: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Norway with a full stomach:D
Some typical foods of Norway include: 1. Gravlaks: This is a type of cured salmon that is usually served on bread with a sweet mustard sauce. The salmon is cured with salt, sugar, and dill and it has a delicate flavor that is popular in Norway.
2. Fårikål: This is Norway's national dish, which is made with lamb and cabbage. The lamb is cooked in a pot with cabbage, peppercorns, and water until it is tender and flavorful.
3. Raspeballer: These are potato dumplings that are served with meat, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. They are similar to German knödel or Italian gnocchi and they are a hearty and filling dish.
4. Kjøttkaker: These are Norwegian meatballs made with ground pork or beef and mixed with breadcrumbs, milk, and onions. They are typically served with a creamy brown sauce, lingonberry jam, and boiled potatoes.
5. Lefse: This is a type of Norwegian flatbread that is made with potatoes, flour, and milk. It is similar to a tortilla and it is often topped with butter and sugar or served with savory fillings like smoked salmon or cured meats.
6. Brunost: Also known as 'brown cheese', this is a type of cheese that is unique to Scandinavia. It is made from whey and has a sweet, caramel-like flavor. It is typically eaten on bread or crackers.
Overall, Norwegian cuisine is known for its hearty and filling dishes that are often made with simple ingredients like potatoes, meat, and cabbage. Many dishes are also served with a creamy sauce or lingonberry jam to add sweetness and balance out the flavors.

Norway: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yes, Norway is generally considered to be an expensive country for tourists, particularly in terms of food and accommodations. Prices for activities and attractions can also be higher than in many other countries. However, with some planning and budgeting, it is still possible to have a great trip to Norway without spending a fortune. For example, booking accommodations in advance, using public transportation instead of renting a car, and seeking out budget-friendly dining options can help reduce expenses.

Norway: where to find accodation

There are several websites where you can look for accommodation in Norway. Some of the most popular ones are: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Hotels.com 4. Expedia 5. Agoda 6. Trivago 7. Hostelworld It's always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews from other travelers to help you make an informed decision. It's also worth considering staying in a cabin or camping if you prefer a more rustic experience. Norway has a great system called "Every Man's Right" that gives people the right to hike, camp, and explore almost anywhere in the countryside for free.
You can check hotel prices in Norway here:
Booking.com

Norway: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Norway receives around 6 million tourists annually. The peak tourist season is during the summer months of June to August, and this is when you will find the most crowds. However, there are also other periods when certain areas or events may get crowded such as the Northern Lights season from October to March or the Christmas markets in December. It's best to plan ahead to avoid the crowds and make the most of your trip.
Norway is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and the police are generally reliable and trustworthy. However, like any country, Norway has areas that are safer and areas that should be avoided.
In general, the larger cities (Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim) are safe for tourists. However, it's always good to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur.
There are some areas in Oslo that may be best avoided at night such as Grønland, Tøyen, and parts of Grünerløkka. The areas around the railway station and particularly the neighborhood of Grønland have a reputation for being rougher areas.
In general, visiting Norway is considered a safe and enjoyable experience and by taking a few precautions and being vigilant, you should have no problems during your trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Norway on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Norway: events for tourists

Norway has several interesting events and festivals throughout the year that attract a large number of tourists. Some of the most popular ones include: 1. The Northern Lights: This natural phenomenon can be seen in Northern Norway during the winter months, and is a sight to behold.
2. National Day: May 17th is Norway's National Day, and the celebrations are a huge event with parades, speeches, and fireworks.
3. Bergen International Festival: This music festival takes place in May/June each year and features a mix of international and Norwegian artists.
4. Midnight Sun Marathon: Taking place in Tromsø in June, this marathon is held during the period where the sun doesn't set, making for a unique running experience.
5. Viking Festival: In August, the town of Gudvangen hosts a Viking festival, complete with reenactments, markets, and feasts.
6. Northern Norway Art Exhibition: Held in September, this art exhibition showcases Norwegian artists' work.
7. The Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony: This event takes place in Oslo every December and attracts global attention to the winners of the year's prize. These events are a great way to experience Norwegian culture, and many tourists plan their trips around them.

Norway: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Norway, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a two-week itinerary that should give you a good taste of what Norway has to offer: Days 1-3: Oslo Start your trip in Norway's capital city, Oslo. Spend a few days exploring the city, visiting must-see attractions such as the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum, and the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet. Take a stroll through Oslo's parks and gardens, such as Frogner Park, and try some traditional Norwegian foods at local restaurants.
Days 4-6: Bergen Take the train from Oslo to Bergen, a scenic route that is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Spend a few days in this charming coastal city, exploring the colourful Bryggen waterfront and the historic Hanseatic Museum. Take a funicular up to the top of Mount Fløyen for a breathtaking view of the city.
Days 7-9: Alesund and the Fjords From Bergen, take a ferry to Alesund, a picturesque coastal town known for its Art Nouveau architecture. From there, embark on a fjord cruise to see some of the most stunning scenery in Norway, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord.
Days 10-12: Lofoten Islands Fly north to the Lofoten Islands, famous for their rugged landscapes, fishing villages, and midnight sun. Explore the charming towns of Reine and Henningsvær, go hiking in the mountains, and take a wildlife safari to spot sea eagles and seals.
Days 13-14: Tromsø End your trip in Tromsø, the 'Gateway to the Arctic'. Visit the Arctic Cathedral, the Polaria aquarium, and take a cable car up to the top of Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords. If you're lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights! I hope this itinerary gives you some ideas for your trip to Norway. Safe travels!

Norway: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Norway described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Sure, Alesund is a coastal city in western Norway, known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and stunning natural scenery. It's located on several islands and surrounded by fjords, mountains, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alesund
- Alta is a town located in Northern Norway, in the Finnmark county. It's known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The town is situated at the head of the Altafjord, and it's ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alta
- Andalsnes is a scenic town located in the western part of Norway, nestled between towering mountains and the beautiful Rauma River. It is situated in the county of Møre og Romsdal and is known as the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Andalsnes
- Arendal is a municipality located in the county of Aust-Agder, in the southern region of Norway. It is situated on the coast, with several small islands in the vicinity, and has a population of approx... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arendal
- Aurland is a municipality in Vestland County, Norway, known for its stunning fjords and mountains. It is situated on the innermost part of the world-famous Aurlandsfjord, which is a branch of the even... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aurland
- Balestrand is a small village located on the northern shore of the Sognefjord in Western Norway. It is situated in the county of Sogn og Fjordane and has a population of approximately 1,300 people. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balestrand
- Bergen is a city located on the southwestern coast of Norway. It is the second-largest city in Norway and is famous for its picturesque waterfront, surrounded by mountains and fjords. Bergen is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bergen
- Bodo is a city in northern Norway, located above the Arctic Circle. It is the largest city in the Nordland county and an important transportation hub for the region. Bodo is best known for its stunnin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bodo
- Eidfjord is a picturesque town situated in the western part of Norway. It is located in Hordaland county and lies near the Hardangervidda National Park, which is the largest national park in Norway. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Eidfjord
- Flam is a village located in southwestern Norway, in the municipality of Aurland, and it is famous for its stunning natural scenery, particularly the Aurlandsfjord and the Flam Railway, one of the mos... CONTINUE here for a trip to Flam
- Flekkefjord is a picturesque town located in the southern part of Norway, in the Vest-Agder region. It is known for its stunning fjord landscape and charming wooden houses that make up the town center... CONTINUE here for a trip to Flekkefjord
- Geilo is a small town located in the mountainous region of Norway, approximately halfway between Oslo and Bergen. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and biking,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Geilo
- Geiranger is a small village located in western Norway, specifically in the fjord region of Møre og Romsdal county. It is situated at the end of the Geirangerfjord, which is known for its beautiful sc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Geiranger
- Gjovik is a city located in the county of Innlandet in Norway. It is situated on the northern shore of Lake Mjosa, which is the largest lake in Norway. Gjovik has a population of around 30,000 people ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gjovik
- Gol is a municipality located in the Buskerud county of Norway. It is situated in the Hallingdalen valley and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gol
- Hamar is a city in eastern Norway located on the eastern shore of Lake Mjøsa, the largest lake in Norway. It is the largest city in Innlandet county and has a population of around 32,000 people. Hamar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hamar
- Harstad is a municipality in the county of Troms og Finnmark, located in the north of Norway. It is located on the island of Hinnøya, bordered by rugged mountains and fjords. The city has a population... CONTINUE here for a trip to Harstad
- Haugesund is a town located on the west coast of Norway, in the Rogaland county. It has a population of around 40,000 people and is known for its cultural heritage and beautiful fjords. It is often re... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haugesund
- Hemsedal is a charming mountain village located in Norway, known for its magnificent skiing and snowboarding facilities in the winter, as well as its hiking and nature activities in the summer. It is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hemsedal
- Hovden is a small town located in the Setesdal region of southern Norway, about 230 km east of Stavanger. It is famous for its picturesque scenery, stunning natural landscapes, and outdoor recreation ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hovden
- Kabelvåg is a small town located on the island of Austvågøya in the Lofoten archipelago of northern Norway. It has a population of around 2,500 people and is known for its picturesque fishing village,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kabelvåg
- Kinsarvik is a small village located in the Hardangerfjord region of Western Norway. It is situated in the municipality of Ullensvang and is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful natur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kinsarvik
- Kirkenes is a town located in the northeastern part of Norway, near the Russian border. It is the capital of the Finnmark county and has a population of about 3,500 people. The town is known for being... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kirkenes
- Kristiansand is a city located on the southern coast of Norway, known for its beautiful beaches, cultural events and family-friendly activities. It has a population of around 90,000 people and is the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kristiansand
- Kristiansund is a small city located on the west coast of Norway, with a population of around 25,000 people. It is situated on four different islands, connected by bridges and tunnels, and is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kristiansund
- Leknes is a small town located in Nordland county in northern Norway. It is situated on the island of Vestvågøya, which is part of the Lofoten archipelago. The town has a population of around 3,000 pe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Leknes
- Lillehammer is a charming town situated in the central part of Norway, known for its scenic beauty, culture, and winter sports. It is around 160 km. north of the capital Oslo and nestled at the entran... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lillehammer
- Lofoten is an archipelago located in the county of Nordland, in northern Norway. It consists of several islands connected by bridges and tunnels. Lofoten is known for its stunning natural scenery, inc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lofoten
- Longyearbyen is a small town located on the island of Spitsbergen, which is part of the Svalbard archipelago located in Norway. It is one of the northernmost towns in the world, with a population of a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Longyearbyen
- Lyngen is a municipality in Troms og Finnmark County, Norway. It is located on the northeastern coast of the Lyngen fjord and is surrounded by majestic mountains and gorgeous natural scenery. The area... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lyngen
- Lysebotn is a small village located in the western part of Norway. It is situated at the end of the Lysefjord, surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls. The village has a population of around 70 peop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lysebotn
- Lysefjord is a stunning fjord located in southwestern Norway, near the coastal city of Stavanger. It is approximately 42 kilometers long and extends from the Lysebotn village in the east to the Hengja... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lysefjord
- Molde is a small town located in the Romsdal region of Norway. It has a population of around 26,000 inhabitants and it is famous for its beautiful natural scenery, especially the panoramic views of fj... CONTINUE here for a trip to Molde
- Narvik is a town located in the northern part of Norway, within the Arctic Circle. It is known for its stunning scenery of fjords, mountains, and Northern lights. Despite being a small town, Narvik ha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Narvik
- Odda is a small municipality located in the county of Hordaland, in western Norway. It lies by the Hardangerfjord, a beautiful fjord that is considered one of Norway's most famous natural wonders. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Odda
- Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway. It is situated on a fjord, surrounded by hills and forests, and is known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural beauty. Some popular attrac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oslo
- Reine is a small fishing village located on the island of Moskenesøya in northern Norway. It is often considered as one of the most picturesque villages in Norway, with stunning views of the surroundi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Reine
- Rjukan is a small town located in Telemark county, Norway. It is situated in a valley surrounded by towering mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. The town is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rjukan
- Røros is a town in central Norway known for its cobblestone streets and well-preserved wooden buildings. It is situated in the mountains and has a subarctic climate with cold winters and mild summers.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Røros
- Sandefjord is a coastal town located on the western side of the Oslofjord in Vestfold county, Norway. It has a population of around 63,000 people and is known for its historical whaling industry. Toda... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sandefjord
- Sandnessjøen is a town located on the western coast of Norway. It is situated in the region of Nordland and is the municipal center of Alstahaug. The town has a population of around 6,000 people. Sand... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sandnessjöen
- Skien is a city located in the Telemark county of Norway. It lies on the banks of the river Skien, which flows into the Skagerrak Strait. Skien is the administrative center of the Telemark county and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skien
- Skjolden is a village located in the southern part of Norway, specifically in the Luster municipality of the Sogn og Fjordane county. It lies at the innermost part of the Sognefjorden, which is the lo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skjolden
- Sognefjord is a large and beautiful fjord located in western Norway, known for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. It is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, stretching over 20... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sognefjord
- Sortland is a municipality in the county of Nordland in Northern Norway. It is situated on the island of Langøya within the Vesterålen archipelago. The municipality has a population of around 10,000 p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sortland
- Stavanger is a city located in southwestern Norway, known for its natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene. The city is situated on the coast of the North Sea and is surrounded by stunning fjords and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stavanger
- Stryn is a municipality located in the Nordfjord region of western Norway. It is situated in the county of Vestland and has a population of around 7,000 people. Stryn is known for its breathtaking fjo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stryn
- Svolvær is a small town located in the Lofoten archipelago in northern Norway, surrounded by majestic mountains and stunning fjords. It's a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, es... CONTINUE here for a trip to Svolvaer
- Tromso is a city located in northern Norway, about 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. It's known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" and is a popular destination for viewing the Northern Lights. Tr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tromso
- Trondheim is a city located in central Norway, known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural surroundings. It is the country's third-largest city with a population of around... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trondheim
- Ulvik is a small municipality located in the Hordaland county of western Norway. It is situated on the eastern shore of the Hardangerfjorden, which is the second longest fjord in Norway. The area arou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ulvik
- Voss is a municipality and a small town in Hordaland county, Norway. It is located on the banks of the Vosso river and the lake Vangsvatnet. Voss is known for its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Voss


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