top 20 places to visit in norway

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Popular categories, the ultimate norway bucket list: top 200 epic things to do.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 21. March 2024 · In: Norway , Travel

I’m constantly dreaming of new and exotic places to visit far, far away. So I sometimes forget how lucky I am to be Norwegian and that I’m able to call a place like this home. Every time I get out and explore Norway I’m amazed by how incredibly beautiful this country is!

Norway is best known for its dramatic fjords, mountains, the Northern Lights and winter sports. But Norway has much more to offer and that’s why I decided to put together this list of the best things to do in Norway .

Whether you’re looking for ideas for your first visit to Norway or you live here and want to experience something new this summer, I hope this article will inspire you to create your own Norway bucket list!

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Agder bucket list

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1. Camp in the wild. Norway’s freedom to roam law (allemannsretten) gives you the right to hike and camp on uncultivated land as long as you leave no trace. Your tent has to be at least 150 meters from the landowner’s house or cabin. If you want to camp in the same place for more than 2 days, you have to get permission from the landowner. This does not apply when you camp in the mountains and remote areas.
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2. A holiday at the hytte (cabin) is a part of the Norwegian national soul. On the weekends and school holidays, many people flock to the forests, mountains, sea or lakes for some relaxing family time. These days many cabins are as modern as our houses, but for a truly Norwegian experience, spend the night in a traditional hytte with an utedo (outhouse).

3. Pick up a disposable or portable grill and some hotdogs and grill in a park or at the beach (as long as there isn’t a fire ban).

4. Join a vors or nach. Alcohol is so expensive at the bars and clubs in Norway that we do most of our drinking at pre and after-parties. And for some reason, we decided to adopt the German words vorspiel  and  nachspiel.

5. Go hiking in the rain. We have a popular saying here in Norway; there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. (I don’t completely agree, but it’s a very Norwegian thing to do.)

6. Taste brunost, fårikål, sour cream porridge and licorice. I know you get licorice many places in the world, but we Norwegians love our licorice. Both sweet and salty. And the same goes for waffles. Be sure to try my favorite, a traditional Norwegian waffle shaped like hearts.

7. For a different culinary experience, pop over to Sweden for some cheap grocery shopping. Everything is so expensive in Norway that we often stock up on meat, candy, soda and alcohol in Sweden.

8. Hike to the Instagrammable Brufjellhålene at the foot of Brufjell. Be careful though, the path is very steep.

9. Spend a day at Dyreparken in Kristiansand, a zoo and amusement park home to over 100 species of animals from around the world.

10. Enjoy an 18-course tasting menu at Under, an underwater restaurant awarded its first Michelin star this year.

11. Are you interested in geology or maybe just obsessed with crystals like I am? Then you should visit Mineralparken på Evje, a mineral park with activities for the whole family. You’ll also find Norway’s largest rock shop there.

12. Visit Risør, one of the best-preserved wooden towns in Europe, and walk the nature trail from the city center out to Randvik.

13. Explore Norway’s largest rainforest at Den Lille Dyrehage, the little zoo, in Gjerstad.

14. Visit Lindesnes Fyr, a beautiful lighthouse standing on the southernmost tip of Norway.

15. Sit down for a fresh seafood dinner at Fiskebrygga in Kristiansand and a concert if you’re there on a Tuesday during the summer months.

16. Spend an active day at Høyt og Lavt Kristiansand, a climbing park boasting more than 122 obstacles in the treetops.

17. Go see a concert, theater or opera in Kilden Performing Arts Center, one of the coolest buildings in the country.

18. Visit Aquarama Bad, a waterpark situated on the city beach in Kristiansand. They even have a wave where you can try to surf.

19. Take the ferry to Merdø, a car-free island just outside Arendal that is super popular among the locals during the summer months.

20. Spend the night in a super fun cocoon-tent at Canvas Hove, located in Raet National Park.

21. Join a rail biking tour on the Flekkefjord railway line .

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22. Climb Norway’s highest mountain, Galdhøpiggen. Standing tall at 2469 meters above sea level, it is also the highest peak in Scandinavia and northern Europe.

23. Go white-water rafting between idyllic farms and lush fields at the Sjoa River.

24. Step back in time at Maihaugen, an open-air museum boasting more than 200 houses dating as far back as the 12th century, including the Garmo stave church.

25. Get close to nature and wildlife in the 12-meter-high Espedalen moose observation tower. You can even spend the night there!

26. Visit Lillehammer Art Museum, which houses a collection consisting of around 1400 works by Norwegian artists dating from the 1800s up until today.

27. Ride down Lillehammer’s Olympic bobsled track, if you dare.

28. and stop by the Norwegian Olympic Museum where you can travel through years of Olympic Games history.

29. Go ice skating in Gjøvik Olympic Cavern Hall, the world’s largest subterranean auditorium built 120 meters underground.

30. Marvel at the turquoise Finna River from Neset Bridge (Neset bru on Google Maps)

31. Stop by Hunderfossen Eventyrpark , an amusement park where Norwegian fairytales come to life.

32. Explore the idyllic Gudbrandsdalen Valley, rich in cultural history and local food traditions. Maybe the most Norwegian place in the country (it will make sense when you get there).

33. Visit the idyllic village of Ringebu home to Ringebu Stave Church with its distinctive red spire.

34. Stay the night in one of Norway’s oldest wooden hotels, Sygard Grytting, which has been owned by the same family for over 700 years.

35. Hike to the top of Rondeslottet, the highest peak in Norway’s oldest national park, Rondane.

36. Have fun in the snow at Hafjell or Kvitfjell, two of Norway’s most popular ski resorts.

37. Go see the beautiful glass cathedral built over the ruins of the old Hamar Cathedral and explore the rest of Domkirkeodden.

38. Take a photo with the world’s largest moose on route 3 between Oslo and Trondheim.

39. Learn about astronomy at the largest astronomical facility in Northern Europe, Harestua Solar Observatory .

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40. Go for a stroll and enjoy the gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture in Ålesund.

41. Spend Sankthans (June 23rd) in Ålesund where they celebrate Midsummer with the world’s largest (or tallest) bonfire.

42. Visit Åndalsnes and hike up to Rampestreken viewpoint, 537 meters above sea level. I know I say “most beautiful” a lot but this view truly is one of the most spectacular in the country.

43. Or if you want an even more strenuous activity you can hike the 10-kilometer-long Romsdalseggen ridge.

44. Go for a ride on Raumabanen, one of the many incredible train journeys we have here in Norway.

45. Marvel at the incredible view of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjorden from Flydalsjuvet viewpoint.

46. Travel the Troll’s Road, Trollstigen which translates to “the Trolls Ladder”, a road that snakes and climbs its way up along steep mountainside.

47. Book a fjord cruise to see the Seven Sisters Waterfall, maybe the most picturesque waterfall in Norway.

48. Watch Gudbrandsjuvet, a 20–25 meters high ravine that the Valldøla River runs through, from a viewpoint above.

49. Drive across an archipelago of small islands and skerries on Atlanterhavsveien, the Atlantic Ocean Road, between Molde and Kristiansund.

50. Join the fun at the annual Molde International Jazz Festival.

51. Check out the 407-meter tall Varden viewpoint to experience Molde Panorama, with its remarkable view of 222 partially snow-clad peaks.

52. Taste Klipfish, dried and salted cod, in Norway’s klipfish capital, Kristiansund.

53. See an opera by Norway’s oldest opera company in Kristiansund. And every February you can even attend an opera festival.

54. Base yourself in the gorgeous Hjørundfjord and hike the Sunnmøre Alps.

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55. If you’re after an active holiday, cycle Helgelandskysten, the Helgeland coast.

56. Explore Vegaøyene, an archipelago inscribed on the UNESCO List of World Natural and Cultural Heritage.

57. Stay in a traditional rorbu or fisherman’s cabin in Lofoten or on the Helgeland coast.

58. Go on a road trip in Lofoten, arguably the most beautiful part of Norway.

59. Climb Svolværgeita, “The Goat”, a popular rock climbing spot in Lofoten.

60. Try arctic surfing at Unstad in Lofoten. Even if you don’t surf the stunning Unstad beach is worth a visit!

61. And while you might not want to go for a swim there are many other beaches in Lofoten you should visit as well such as Uttakleiva, Ramberg and Haukland. I call Lofoten the Caribbean of the north because of the white sand and turquoise water.

62. Get the postcard view of Hamnøy with its picturesque collection of red fishing cabins on the water.

63. Visit Gallery Lofoten in Henningsvær, home to Norway’s largest collection of North Norwegian paintings.

64. Go on a midnight sun safari in the Lofoten Archipelago.

65. or go on a killer whale safari and snorkel with the whales.

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66. Hike Reinebringen and enjoy another one of the most spectacular views in Norway.

67. Attend Træna Festivalen , one of the most remote music festivals in the world.

68. Hike to Marmorslottet , the Marble Castle, a unique landscape of rock formations carved out over thousands of years by the river Glomåga.

69. Stand on the Arctic Circle at the Arctic Circle Center.

70. See the Royal Palace at the top of Oslo’s main street, Karl Johans Gate. What’s unique about this royal residence is that there are no tall fences or gates, you can walk almost all the way up to the front door.

71. Stock up on milk chocolate and Kvikk Lunsj at the Freia Store on Karl Johan’s Gate. It is the best chocolate in the world, trust me! You can also visit their factory at Rodeløkka.

72. Enjoy a 3-hour buffet on a wooden boat sailing through Oslofjorden, or go island hopping and explore the six main Oslo Fjord Islands .

73. Walk among over 200 interesting sculptures by Gustav Vigeland in the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

74. Spend a sunny day in Frognerparken, central Oslo’s largest park.

75. Wander through history at Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and previous royal residence dating back to the 1300s.

76. Feast on Norwegian/Japanese fusion food at Hrimnir.

77. Rent a floating sauna and spend a sweaty day on the Oslo fjord in front of the Opera House.

78. Watch the sunset from the roof of Oslo Opera House.

79. Visit the Munch Museum featuring more than 42000 pieces by Edvard Munch himself as well as some collections by other Norwegian artists. The new and impressive Munch Museum opened in the fall of 2020.

80. Find the hill depicted in Edvard Munch’s most famous painting, Scream. The real Scream Hill where Munch is thought to have had a panic attack is located close to Ekebergparken.

81. Check out Damstredet and Telthusbakken, a charming part of central Oslo with well-preserved and inhabited wooden houses from the late 1700s and the 1800s.

82. Get up close to a real Viking ship and learn about Viking history at the Viking Ship Museum.

83. Enjoy different cuisines from around the world at Vippa, a food court situated on the edge of the Oslo fjord.

84. Learn about the incredible journeys and discoveries of Thor Heyerdahl at the Kon-Tiki Museum. He grew up in Larvik where I’m from and was actually a childhood friend of my grandfather.

85. Go for a stroll along Akerselva through my favorite neighborhood in Oslo, Grünerløkka.

86. Watch a ski jumping competition in Holmenkollen, my favorite winter sport (to watch).

87. Hike parts of Pilegrimsleden, or The Pilgrim’s Way, a trail that stretches 643 km from the ruins of Mariakirken in Oslo’s old town to Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.

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88. Peek over the edge at Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) featured in the most recent Mission Impossible movie. Just be very careful!

89. Hike to Månafossen, a 90-meter tall free-fall waterfall.

90. Check out the prehistoric rock carvings at Solbakk. They were discovered in 1923 and are thought to date to around 500 BC.

91. Learn to surf at Jæren, one of the best places to surf in Norway. Read more about the beaches of Jæren and some of the other best beaches in Norway .

92. Visit Jernaldergården at Ullandhaug, a reconstructed Iron Age farm built on ruins dating back to between 350 and 550 AD.

93. And if you’re a history nerd like me, stop by the Museum of Archaeology in Stavanger where you can see a Viking longhouse, weapons, jewelry and other Viking artifacts.

94. Go for a stroll in Old Stavanger, an area consisting of 173 quaint white cottages, built around the turn of the 18th century.

95. Learn how oil and gas were created millions of years ago, how petroleum is found and how it is used as well as how Norway became an oil nation at the interactive Norwegian Petroleum Museum.

96. Hike Trollpikken (the Troll Dick) in Egersund, a good alternative to the more popular Trolltunga.

97. Go kayaking on Lysefjorden and explore Lysebotn and the popular Lysevegen tourist road with 27 hairpin turns.

98. Take a photo on Kjerragbolten , a boulder lodged between two mountains over 1000 meters above sea level. Just be careful!

99. Spend the night at Sogndalstrand Kulturhotell , a unique hotel consisting of 10 different restored wooden houses from the 1800s.

100. Go for a walk along the harbor and enjoy the beautiful architecture of Haugesund. Then sit down and relax with a cold beer from Garasjebryggeriet.

101. Walk in the footsteps of Viking kings in Avaldsnes, Norway’s oldest royal residence. King Harald Fairhair built his main house here around 870 A.D and Avaldsnes remained a royal residence until around 1450.

102. Visit the idyllic islands of Utsira and Røvær outside Karmøy.

103. Stop by Old Skudeneshavn, a picturesque town of white wooden houses situated at the southern tip of Karmøy.

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104. Relax on Sommarøy, a hidden paradise in Northern Norway complete with turquoise water and white sand beaches.

105. Watch the midnight sun from Nordkapp (71° north), one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Norway.

106. Go hiking on Senja, home to one of Norway’s most striking peaks, Segla.

107. Experience Sami Week in Tromsø, a festival celebrating the indigenous people of Sápmi (the Arctic regions of Scandinavia).

108. Unwind in a hot tub on the deck of an old Norwegian fishing boat transformed into an arctic spa.

109. Visit the gorgeous Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø or even get married there.

110. Take the cable car up to Storsteienen at 421 meters above sea level and enjoy the panoramic view of Tromsø.

111. Visit Polaria, an Arctic experience center and the northernmost aquarium in the world.

112. Spend a day at Tromsøbadet, a brand new wellness and waterpark in Tromsø.

113. Go ice climbing in the Lyngen Alps outside Tromsø.

114. Stay the night in a glass igloo at Lyngen North.

115. Explore a frozen world inside an ice cave. Join a tour with snowmobiles or dog sleds as your transport.

116. Go reindeer sledding under the Northern Lights. I highly recommend this one if you visit Tromsø with kids .

117. Spend a night in a lavvu (traditional Sami tipi tent) and learn about Sami culture from a reindeer herder.

118. Go see Norway’s only prehistoric UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rock Art of Alta which consists of more than 6,000 carvings dating back to 4,200 B.C and 500 B.C.

119. Watch the Northern Lights from your bed in this Arctic Dome in Narvik.

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120. Watch out for UFOs in Hessdalen where unexplained lights are still seen today.

121. Spend a day at Stiklestad National Cultural Center, the location of one of the most famous battles in Norwegian history. I can also recommend staying a night at Scandic Stiklestad , one of my favorite hotels in Norway.

122. Explore the quaint Røros Mining Town, it’s especially charming during the Christmas season. Røros was together with its surrounding industrial-rural cultural landscapes listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980.

123. Go for a walk in Bakklandet, an old area of Trondheim complete with colorful wooden houses, cobbled streets and cute cafés.

124. Rent a bike and go for a ride through the city. And if you’re brave enough try the bike lift at Bakklandet.

125. Shoot some photos from Gamle Bybro, the Old Town Bridge, one of the most iconic places in the city.

126. Go for a walk along the river, one of my favorite things to do in Trondheim.

127. Marvel at the incredible Nidarosdomen, Nidaros Cathedral.

128. See the crown jewels at the Archbishop’s Palace next to the Nidaros Cathedral.

129. Take the tram up to Lian, a beautiful nature area boasting incredible views and a lake.

130. Have a picnic at Kristiansten Fortress, or better yet bring a disposable (or portable) grill and some hot dogs like I mentioned above. A super Norwegian thing to do!

131. Enjoy as much sushi as you can eat at Sabrura. No really, this sushi buffet is actually super fresh and delicious! The name is a play on the “that’s what she said” joke. It literally means: the bride said.

132. Take the ferry to Munkholmen, an island that was used as an execution site by the Vikings, then as a monastery and a prison.

133. Go to Hell, a small village outside Trondheim, just so you can say you’ve been to hell.

134. Travel green along the Golden Road at Inderøy , where sustainability is a way of life.

135. Go for a walk along the cultural path and visit the Ironwork Museum in Eidsfoss outside Holmestrand.

136. Stay in a two-story treetop cabin , 100 meters above sea level and 8 meters above the ground, in Horten.

137. Visit an art gallery in Åsgårstrand, a town frequented by well-known painters for over 100 years.

138. Learn about the Vikings and visit the set of season 3 of Norsemen (on Netflix) at Midgard Vikingcenter.

139. Hike to the top of Slottsfjellet for beautiful views across Tønsberg and visit Slottsfjellsmuseet.

140. Have dinner on Brygga in Tønsberg (below) and watch the boats go by.

141. Go for a walk in beautiful Bøkeskogen (above), The Beech Tree Forest, which is Norway’s largest and the world’s most northerly beech tree forest.

142. Explore Mølen, Norway’s largest pebble beach. The terrain was left behind after the end of the most recent Ice Age 10,000 years ago.

143. Visit Kaupang, Norway’s first town founded in 800 A.D, located in Larvik just av few kilometers from where I grew up. During the summer months, you can learn about the Vikings and get an insight into how archaeologists worked when they excavated Kaupang.

144. Have an ice cream and go for a stroll along the quaint harbor in Nevlunghavn.

145. Spend a day in Stavern, the best summer city in Norway (I might be a bit biased, I grew up close by).

146. Have fun at Sommarland in Bø, Scandinavia’s largest water park. No, Norway is not too cold to have an outdoor waterpark (at least not for like two months a year)!

147. Try to spot Selma in Seljord. You’ve probably heard of Nessie in Loch Ness. But did you know Norway has it’s very own sea monster?

148. Visit the fairytale-esque Heddal Stavkirke, Norway’s largest stave church.

149. Splurge on a night at the historic Dalen Hotel (below). I was lucky enough to live in Dalen for six months right next to this beautiful old structure.

150. Explore the rest of Dalen and walk up to Rui Farm , the former home of the tiny sisters Ingrine and Gurine, who became famous across the country as the “Rui girls who visited the King”.

151. Combine your stay in Dalen with a boat trip on Telemarkskanalen. The canal connects the coast of Telemark with the interior through eight locks at a distance of 105 km from Skien to Dalen.

152. Walk in the footsteps of the saboteurs who blew up the heavy water plant at Vemork during World War II.

153. Join a tour of Rjukan-Notodden Industrial Heritage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015.

154. Go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts in the region .

155. Try to save Peer’s heart at the enigmatic escape-room “Peer Gynt Escape Room” at the Henrik Ibsen Museum in Skien.

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156. Ride the Bergen railway line from Oslo to Bergen, which together with a few other Norwegian railways, has been voted one of the world’s best train journeys by several newspapers and magazines.

157. Drive over Låtefossen, an impressive 165-meter-high twin waterfall.

158. Hike Hardangerjøkulen glacier where scenes from Star Wars Episode V were shot.

159. Go hiking or snowmobiling on Hardangervidda.

160. Take the ferry to the medieval Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Norway’s oldest stave church.

161. Hike to Trolltunga , the troll’s tongue, which stands 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet.

162. Meet producers, buy high-quality local produce and get inspired by great food experiences at Bergen Matfestival, Norway’s largest local food festival.

163. Walk along Bryggen in Bergen (below), a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1300s.

164. Feel lost in the vastness of Sognefjorden and its most famous arm, the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Nærøyfjorden.

165. Drive Stalheimskleiva, one of the steepest roads in Northern Europe which boasts incredible views of two waterfalls

166. Experience the stunning scenery and dark history of Lovatnet, in my eyes the most beautiful lake in Norway.

167. Take the skylift up to Mount Hoven and enjoy a good meal accompanied by the most incredible views.

168. Join a guided hike at Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe.

169. Visit a blue ice cave at Nigardsbreen, one of the most accessible parts of Jostedalsbreen.

170. Drive over Aurlandsfjellet where tall snow walls line the road even during the summer months.

171. Drive through the world’s longest road tunnel, Lærdalstunnelen 24,5 km long.

172. Take a ride on the Flåm Railway , one of the world’s steepest railway lines.

173. You can also hike or bike the Flom Valley , or combine it with a train ride.

174. Hike to Vettisfossen, which with its single drop of 275 meters, is the tallest unregulated free-falling single-drop waterfall in Norway and Northern Europe.

175. Go for a walk to Bondhusvatnet/lake (below). On a calm day, this place is a photographer’s dream!

176. Explore Folgefonna National Park and the southernmost glacier in Norway, Folgefonna Glacier.

177. Marvel at the gorgeous view of Hoddevik, a lush green valley with a white sand beach and turquoise water. This is also a great place to go surfing!

178. Go on a guided tour of the King’s Mine in Kongsberg, 342 meters below the surface and 2,3 km into the mountain.

179. Rent a boat or canoe from Utvika Camping and enjoy a day on Tyrifjorden.

180. Learn about the region’s culture and history at Oscarsborg fortress in the Oslofjord.

181. If you’re obsessed with Christmas like I am, visit Drøbak, home to Norway’s only all-year Christmas House (Tregaarden’s Julehus) and the Christmas House official post office.

182. Spend a day of thrills and fun at Tusenfryd, Norway’s largest amusement park.

183. Go for a cruise on the Halden Canal, Norway’s oldest canal, and experience Northern Europe’s highest locks, the Brekke Locks.

184. Stopp by Hadeland Glassverk, Norway’s oldest industrial company and buy some handmade candy or glassware. Something I used to do with my grandparents every summer when I was younger.

185. See the historical light show at Fredriksten Festning in Halden (below) created for the fortress’ 350-year anniversary in 2011.

186. Go for a stroll through the Old town of Fredrikstad, one of the best-preserved fortified towns in the Nordic region.

187. Rent a cabin and spend a relaxing few days at Hvaler, the sunniest area in Norway.

188. Hike Veslehødn in Hemsedal and see the 140-meter-high waterfall Hydnefossen along the way.

189. Hit the slopes in Hemsedal or Geilo, two of Norway’s most popular ski resorts.

190. Try high-speed sledding at the toboggan trail in Dagalifjell Park. The custom-built sleds can reach a speed of 70 km/h.

191. Go rafting! The upper part of Numedalslågen, Dagalifallene (the Dagali Falls), is one of the best rafting rivers in Europe.

192. If you’re an avid angler, head for the famous trout river Hallingdalselva or one of the 50 fishing lakes in the valley.

193. Hallingdal is also a mountain biker’s paradise . There are six different destinations in the valley offering trails suitable for everyone from beginners to experts.

194. Visit Svalbard, the world’s northernmost permanently inhabited place.

195. Explore one of Longyearbyen’s coal mines and get an insight into a miner’s life with this highly-rated tour .

196. Go Whale watching. Svalbard is the perfect place to see a wide range of whales including blue whales, beluga whales, and humpback whales.

197. Join a dog sledding tour through Bolterdalen under the Northern Lights.

198. Check out Pyramiden, a Soviet-era coal-mining town that was abandoned in 1998. According to National Geographic, it is one of the world’s 10 best ghost towns to visit.

199. Go kayaking among seals and icebergs to the magnificent Svea Glacier.

200. Enjoy a beer at Svalbard Bryggeri, the northernmost craft brewery in the world.

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Disclaimer: I have bought some of the photos in this article from Depositphotos , my favorite stock photo site. 

About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

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20. June 2020 at 10:11

I love travelling Norway and your 200 tips are so inspiring! Especially the viewpoints look amazing 🙂

20. June 2020 at 10:19

Thank you so much, Yvette 😀 I agree, Norway is a pretty spectacular country!

20. June 2020 at 11:28

Norway is one of my favorite countries in the world and this is the perfect list of things to do there! Looks like I need to make a trip back asap!

21. June 2020 at 00:48

Thank you, Marisa! I’m so happy you liked it 😀

20. June 2020 at 11:31

Ahhh Norway is one of my favourite countries of all time, so this made me so happy to read! 🙂 It’s my dream to go back and hike Reinebringen. Thanks so much for these awesome tips, saved it for the future!

21. June 2020 at 00:47

I’m so happy to hear that Jiayi 😀 Thank you so much for stopping by!

20. June 2020 at 11:46

Well I’m just going to have to book a trip to Norway! This is a fantastic blog, there are so many ideas

21. June 2020 at 22:48

Thanks, Lucy 😀 I’m so happy to hear that!

20. June 2020 at 12:09

So beautiful! I’ve only visited Oslo in Norway (which I loved). I would dearly love to plan a trip to explore the country more.

22. June 2020 at 01:14

I’m so happy you had a great time in Oslo 🙂 Hopefully you get to explore some more soon!

I have been to Norway several times and loved it. I thought I had seen quite a bit of this beautiful country until I read your post – there are so many more wonderful things to see!

22. June 2020 at 01:13

I thought so too until I started writing this ? Thanks for stopping by Amanda

20. June 2020 at 13:04

Your list is amazing, so many things to do! I have always been impressed by the landscapes in Norway and your photos are a great motivation to visit!

22. June 2020 at 01:11

Thank you so much, Ophelie 😀 Yes the Norwegian landscape is incredible!

20. June 2020 at 13:50

Great list! I would love to visit Norway in the future!

21. June 2020 at 22:47

Thank you Elina 🙂 I hope you get to go soon!

20. June 2020 at 14:57

This is a crazy list! And your pictures are BEAUTIFULL!! Saving for later!

21. June 2020 at 00:46

Thank you so much, Meghan 😀

20. June 2020 at 15:26

Woooow this list is so full and so inspiring! My head is spinning! I wish I was living in such a big country with that many places to explore right now. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much, Léa 😀 I’m feeling pretty lucky right now, so many awesome places to see

20. June 2020 at 17:38

What a comprehensive list! I’m bookmarking this for later, because Norway is my bf’s ultimate bucket list destination. Thanks so such a thorough blog.

21. June 2020 at 22:45

Thank you, Shelley 😀 I hope you and your bf get to come here soon!

20. June 2020 at 18:52

Wow, so much to see! I love Norway, it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited.

21. June 2020 at 22:44

Thanks, Shannon! I’m so happy to hear that 🙂

23. June 2020 at 09:06

This is such a fantastic comprehensive list. Great job 🙂

23. June 2020 at 15:46

Thank you so much 😀 I’m happy you liked it!

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20 best places to visit in norway [2024 travel guide].

After driving more than 3,000 kilometres through Norway, it’s fair to say we got a true feel for the country.

We travelled from the most easterly point, to the most northerly point, right across to the most westerly points, and all the way to the most southerly part!

And best of all, we were able to complete our epic road trips through Norway in the months of October and November, when the snow was thick on the ground and the fjords were white and ice-covered in all their glory.

Along the way, we did most of the things to do in Norway that we were most excited for, and discovered even more wondrous places we couldn’t have even planned for!

So, if you’re planning a trip to Norway and are looking for where to go, here is my ultimate guide on what I believe to be the 20 best places to visit in Norway.

Let’s get stuck in ...

Travellerspoint

If you dare to venture into the far northeast of Norway, you will discover a small, charming town called Vardo .

It’s a little out of the way, and in fact the drive here from the popular city of Kirkens (more on that below) took a good day of driving.

But as you will soon discover, many of the best places to see in Norway actually lie on the roads between destinations.

With Vardo it’s no different, as you spend almost the whole day driving alongside the glacier and ocean.

Driving in Norway in winter is truly spectacular, and this drive was one of my favourites from the whole trip.

And when you get to Vardo, you are greeted by a charming city, complete with cafes, bars, restaurants and even the world’s most northernmost stone fortress!

Also, you have to pass by this town in order to get to what is possibly the most underrated place to visit in all of Norway ...

2. Hamningberg

There’s a very good reason why Hamningberg is one of the least touristy places anywhere in Norway …

It’s because getting here is far from easy!

There is only one road in and out of Hamningberg, and you have to first go to Vardo in order to get to that road.

Then, if you plan on visiting in winter, when there’s snow on the ground, then you need a heavy duty road vehicle to get you there.

In turns out that we were very naive on our visit as we failed to realise just how isolated Hamningberg is and how arduous can be at that time of year.

Fortunately however, in late October the road was still being cleared, so we could pass through.

It also helps that our campervan was built on a Toyota Hilux, with thick off-road tyres and 4 wheel drive.

So if you do plan on visiting here in a Norwegian campervan or motorhome rental , just make sure it's equipped for that kind of weather!

What made this place so special was the mesmerising drive the whole way.

The only way I can describe it is like driving through the landscape from that frozen planet in the movie Interstellar.

It gets to a point where you have only swirling ocean on one side, and steep unforgiving mountain cliffs on the other.

It’s incredible!

Hamningberg itself is very small, a remote fishing village that is actually abandoned in the winter months!

We spent the night camping here and were greeted with the most spectacular Northern Lights display!

View this post on Instagram Headed to the most North Eastern Part of #Norway and the #northernlights said hello! Got to practice this night photography stuff but not a bad attempt 😋 It really is as amazing as it looks 😍 Have you seen the Northern Lights? #tingglyexperiencss A post shared by Cazzy & Bradley (@dreambigtravelfar) on Oct 24, 2019 at 1:01pm PDT

3. North Cape

If Hamningberg was my favourite and most rugged place to visit in Norway, then I would say that the North Cape is my second favourite.

It’s the most northerly point, not only in Norway, but anywhere in mainland Europe.

It’s actually a small island off Norway that is now connected by bridge.

Once again, it was the drive here that was so memorable, the whole way driving alongside some of the best fjords in Norway, as well as countless fishing villages.

There are a series of long tunnels and bridges that forge their way up to the north cape, with the scenery getting more dramatic and desolate the further you go.

Up at the North Cape is a tourist centre and restaurant area where you can visit the iconic globe statue, located at the most northerly point.

It’s a huge sense of achievement getting here by car, as you have to go a very long way to get there.

In fact, it took us more than a month of driving to reach here from Vilnius (in Lithuania) .

4. Lyngenfjord Bridge

Located a little off the beaten track (like most of Norway’s best attractions), to get to Lyngenfjord you need to be prepared for a bit of hiking.

The closest car park is about an hour’s walk from the bridge (at least by our walking standards), and to get there you get the pleasure of heading up a winding valley road deep into the mountains.

There is a longer hike you can do, with a big loop like walk that would probably take closer to 4 or 5 hours, but I’m sure would be well worth it!

The bridge itself is the main attraction, spanning a gorge, offering unparalleled views of a giant waterfall.

As someone who has developed a fear of heights in recent years, it’s fair to say I was more than a little freaked out going over the bridge, but it’s perfectly safe don’t worry.

In fact you can even bungee jump off the bridge if you feel up for it!

As it was minus 10 degrees at its warmest by this point in the year, the waterfall was almost entirely frozen over, which was an awesome site!

I think Alta is one of the best places to visit in Norway if you need somewhere to base yourself for exploring the rest of northern Norway .

It’s a fairly sizeable town (at least by Norway’s standards) and is home to some really cool buildings, in particular, the Cathedral Of The Northern Lights .

It is situated on the shores of a gorgeous fjord, and we actually spent the night wild camping by one, just outside of town.

If you need somewhere to restock on food and other supplies, Alta is a great place to do it.

In fact, this town actually saved us as we had completely ran out of gas in Finnish Lapland and needed somewhere to get winter gas in order to survive those arctic -25 degree nights!

For that Alta, we will be forever grateful!

There are all kinds of things to do in Alta, including hunting for the Northern Lights , dog sledding and much more.

Here’s a useful page for more information .

Tromso is one of the most popular places to visit in Norway, as it has good roads getting there and even an airport.

There is also a busy cruise port as well, so it’s popular for everyone, regardless of how you plan on getting around Norway!

The city is very charming, and actually looks really cool from across the water.

Tromso seemed to us to be a good place to base yourself if you plan on flying into Norway, renting a car and then exploring some of the most beautiful parts of northern Norway, mentioned already.

Jus like Alta, it's a really popular place to do do all kinds of tours and activities. In particular, we saw lots of options for dog sledding in Tromso , an experience we would highly recommend!

We got to do it when in Lapland and it was great fun all round, not just for us but more so the huskies who clearly love it!

7. Reine (Lofoten Islands)

The Lofoten Islands are, according to locals, getting increasingly popular year on year.

And to be honest, it’s not exactly hard to see why!

The drive down through the Lofoten Islands is nothing short of spectacular, with perhaps a dozen (I lost count) enormous, winding bridges connecting all of the roads.

Once you get down the end of the islands, you come to a small town called Reine.

It turns out that you can get ferries here, so despite the road down here being almost empty, we suddenly found ourselves surrounded by other tourists!

Want to know why Reine is so popular?

Well, they say a picture paints a thousand words …

8. Nusfjord

The second of my favourite places to see in the Lofoten Islands is Nusfjord.

This is a real, old school Norwegian fishing village, complete with authentic buildings dating back decades.

It is still a functioning fishing village, but also a sort of experience, where you can visit and find out how these traditional towns work.

When we visited Norway in November, the town was shut down for the winter, and nothing was really open, but we still had a chance to wander around and discover the cool, red wooden buildings.

Apparently, if you visit in the summer once the catch has come in, the town is engulfed in the smell of fish, all out drying on large wooden structures.

9. Haukland Beach

There really are dozens of great things to see and do on the Lofoten Islands, but if I had to pick my third favourite spot here, it would probably be Haukland Beach.

Here, you can park up and walk right out and around the headland, taking in views of the dramatic crashing waves all around.

Alternatively, you can hike up the mountain there to get even better views for miles all around.

After visiting this beach, you can then drive through the tunnel, which brings you to another tiny village community.

Here you’ll find a beach with perfect breaks for surfing and even at that time of the year there were plenty of people out riding the freezing waves!

10. Trondheim

When crossing back into Norway from Sweden , we found ourselves passing by Trondheim.

We weren’t really too sure what to expect, and decided to visit on a whim.

What we found ended up being one of the best cities in Norway that we found!

Perhaps even my favourite.

It’s not a big city (though no city in Norway are big) and has tonnes of character and charm, complete with old traditional Norwegain buildings and a large Gothic cathedral.

They have a wonderful castle overlooking the city, and lots of charming cafes in the oldest part of the town.

For more information, check out our guide on all of the best things to do in Trondheim in one day .

11. The Atlantic Ocean Road

One thing we soon learned during our road trip through Norway is that the country is home to some of the most mesmerising bridges we’ve ever seen.

When passing through the coastal parts of Norway, it almost seems like you can’t go more than an hour without stopping over to photograph yet another stunning bridge.

Well, perhaps the most famous bridges are those located on the now infamous Atlantic Ocean Road.

It twists and turns, connecting tiny parcels of land to one another and forming a short yet inspiring road trip that you can’t help but love!

Many claim this to be one of the most scenic drives in the world, and it really is hard to disagree!

12. Rampestreken

When looking for some of the best hikes to do in Norway, we came across Rampestreken , located in southern Norway.

This is a large hill, with a small town called Andalsnes right at its base.

At the top of the hike (which takes 1 to 2 hours depending on fitness and weather conditions) is a large steel viewing platform which makes for some spectacular views out over the town and surrounding fjords.

When we did the climb, it was a lot of hard work as the ground was frozen and covered in ice, and there isn’t exactly much of a trail to go on in the first place.

But nonetheless, the views were more than worth it and I would 100% recommend others visit.

View this post on Instagram This was an AWESOME hike! I seen online there was a viewing platform at the top of the mountain and thought, yup I want to climb that. It was full incline in snow and ice and I fell a lot, but we did it and it was worth this view 😍 This is #Rampestreken Do you like to climb mountains? ❤ A post shared by Cazzy & Bradley (@dreambigtravelfar) on Nov 21, 2019 at 1:34pm PST

13. Geiranger Fjord

One of the things Norway is most famous for is its fjords, located all along its coastline.

To be honest, no matter which part of Norway you visit, as long as you head to the coast you should be able to find a fjord that you will truly love!

In fact, doing a fjord cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Norway and I am gutted we didn’t get a chance to do one as well!

But if I had to pick one fjord, then I would say that Geiranger Fjord was one of my favourites, and we seemed to spend a lot of time driving around it.

14. Lovatnet Lake (The Norwegian Gap of Dunloe)

Earlier on in the year, we were fortunate enough to complete an epic 16 day road trip in Ireland, where we got to visit Killarney.

From here, one of the best things you can see is the Gap Of Dunloe, arguably the most famously picturesque place in Ireland.

Well for me, Lovatnet Lake seemed to be all as much as beautiful and pristine as the Gap Of Dunloe.

It strikes a startling resemblance and this is now how I remember it!

It’s well worth a detour to visit if you are passing by, and is actually located near to a cable car that takes you up the mountain, with a restaurant and views out all across the fjords.

Probably worth a visit, though it fell a little outside of our budget for Norway !

15. The Flam Railway

This is another Norway attraction that we hadn’t planned on doing, until the day when we arrived in the cute town of Flam.

It quickly came to our attention that this is the most popular thing to do in the area, and so we hastily secured ourselves a couple tickets.

I'm glad we did …

The journey takes you deep into the mountains, about one hour up until you reach a small stop called Myrdal.

There’s not much to do here, but it’s the journey itself that is the best part of the visit.

Along the way, you get to learn about the history of the train and the railway, whilst also spotting waterfalls and long forgotten tracks all along the way.

You also stop off at Kjosfossen Falls along the way which was once again frozen during our visit!

It turns out that in the summer months, the Flam Railway takes thousands of passengers a day! Largely because cruise liners come all the way up the fjords to reach it.

16. Kristiansand

Another one of my few favourite cities in Norway is Kristiansand.

Once again, though not big, there’s plenty to do here for a day, as well as a big range of cafes, bars and restaurants.

When you’ve spent weeks out hiking and exploring desolate fjords it’s sometimes nice to head into a city and readjust briefly to civilisation!

I really enjoyed just walking the city, especially during late November when it was gearing up for Christmas with all the decorations out on display.

But there are other things to do here as well, including a visit to the local Kristiansand Zoo and even some WW2 Gestapo headquarters .

17. Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen)

By far, one of the most Instagrammable places to visit in Norway is Pulpit Rock.

I’ve gone ahead and added a picture below, and I think that should tell you everything you need to know about why you should visit!

The views from it are spectacular, made all the more memorable by the one and a half hour hike it takes to get here.

It’s actually one of Norway’s most popular sites where, in the summer months, they get up to a few thousand people hiking there every single day!

Our visit in November was very fortuitous, as there was no snow on the ground and we were perhaps the 5th and 6th people to get there that day, because we left early in the morning.

But don’t let the crowds put you off from visiting, just be prepared to wait a long time to get a photo at the spot.

For more information, check out the guide we wrote on visiting Pulpit Rock .

As it’s the capital of Norway, you would assume that Oslo is easily one of the top places to visit in Norway.

And yes, while it’s certainly worth a visit I will add that it should not be the main base for your trip.

In fact, if you only have a few days to visit Norway and you are flying into one of the Oslo airports, I would actually advise that you spend your time visiting other places on this list instead.

Right, now that I’m done insulting Oslo, here’s a few of the best reasons that you should actually visit!

Number one … if you are there in November or December, then the Christmas market here is awesome!

Easily one of my favourites ever, despite being far from the biggest.

Other great sites here, that are in this case open all year round, including the opera house and the royal palace.

Also, they now have electric scooters to rent which, as well as being a great way to get around the city, are SO much fun!

Just be sure to download the apps before your visit:

19. Fredrikstad

Before heading out of southern Norway, we decided to stop at the historic city of Fredrikstad.

This quickly became one of my favourite stops on the trip, though very small, the city is even older and more historical than Trondheim .

Well, it’s the oldest city in Norway!

Better yet, the old city has become somewhat of a museum, with many of the oldest buildings still in tact, and free for you to walk around.

They also have an assortment of museums, cafes and art galleries to visit.

20. Kirkenes

Last, but certainly not least, we have Kirkenes!

Whereas Fredrikstad is the southernmost major city in Norway, Kirkenes is located in the isolated far north east of the country.

It is extremely close to the border with both Russia and Finland , and it was our first stop after passing in from Lapland .

The city itself is nice and has some charm, but the main reason to visit is for all the great tours and activities on offer!

Amongst many other things, they offer a snow hotel, king crab fishing and tours to see the northern lights.

For more ideas of what to do in Kirkenes, check out this site here .

Well, that’s about it!

My top 20 Norway bucket list of great places to visit!

Though they are all amazing places to go in Norway, just be aware that they are located ALL across the country, and you will need your own car to see them all (check out our guide to the best car rentals here).

If this sounds like a tremendous adventure to you, then you should also check out my complete guide to the best road trips in Norway .

It’s also worth mentioning that there are a few places we really wanted to visit in Norway, but didn’t get a chance to.

These include ...

• Galdhøpiggen
• Kjeragbolten and Kjærrafossen waterfall

If you get the chance to visit any of them, then let me know below how you got on.

Similarly, if you have any other places to visit in Norway in winter or summer that you’d like to recommend, just drop a comment below!

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25 Best Places to Visit in Norway – An Overview With Top Tips

Passionate for far-away places and habañero hot sauce

From remote, frozen shores and soaring mountain peaks, to Scandinavian architecture, esoteric music festivals, and nautical history – planning a Norway trip can be a big task. But Norweigans love nature, and they’re never far away from it. So even if you’re only there for a short city break, there’s plenty of adventure to be found. We’ve rounded up 25 of the best places to visit in Norway to help you find yours.

1. Svalbard

Situated in the Arctic circle, Svalbard is a haven for rare wildlife and has miles and miles of pristine wilderness to marvel at. Despite its remote feel, it’s relatively accessible as the largest settlement of Longyearbyen is home to the most northerly commercial airport in the world.

The landscape changes from huge, domineering glaciers and mountains to snow-covered plains and sheltered coastal coves. Wildlife you can expect to see there includes polar bears, walruses, beluga whales and an array of birdlife – including puffins and Arctic skuas. If you are interested in visiting Svalbard please don’t forget to take a look at Secret Atlas’s Expedition Micro Cruises . With only 12 Guests onboard our ships, we provide an intimate, authentic and sustainable way to explore this remote and untamed region.

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One of the largest northern cities on mainland Norway, Tromso is situated within the Arctic Circle and the Northern Lights oval – making it a prime location to witness this majestic natural phenomenon. The Aurora Borealis as they’re also known cast incredible colourful patterns over the night sky and are particularly prominent in the winter months (September-April).

Tromso itself has some great museums, restaurants and events.

Find out more

3. Lofoten 

A true gem in the Norwegian crown, Lofoten is home to a group of islands on the north-west coast of Norway as well as impressive mountains, deep fjords and no shortage of wildlife – including some big colonies for migrating birds. Situated in the Arctic Circle, there’s a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights from here in winter. But it’s not as cold as you might imagine thanks to the warming Gulf Stream. 

It’s worth taking a bit of time to properly explore the Lofotens and the surrounding area like Trolljfjord.  The narrow fjord It’s actually situated between Lofoten and the Vesterålen archipelago and is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks that are particularly stunning in the winter. If you look up towards the spiky peaks, you might even catch sight of the white-tailed sea eagle flying overhead. 

Lofoten is also a great spot for fishing, including the picturesque village Reine lined where fisherman’s huts line the shore. But visitors come for a combination of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. It has some of the Lofoten Islands best hiking trails, including Reinebringen, and it’s also a great destination for cycling, kayaking, and skiing. The archipelago is also home Nusfjord, another historic fishing village with colourful buildings and spectacular mountain views.

4 . Bergen + Westfjords

Norway is renowned for its fjords. The Western Fjords are a UNESCO World Heritage site and as such is a protected area, but it welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Most start their journey in the city of Bergen – the gateway to the fjords.

A fjord is a sea-drowned valley carved out by glaciers moving and leading to sheer cliffs, thunderous waterfalls and calm turquoise bodies of water to sail through.

5. Geirangerfjord

Norway’s most popular and loved fjord, Geirangerfjord is 260 metres deep with the surrounding mountains towering overhead at up to 1700 metres tall.

This contrast makes for some epic waterfalls, including the Seven Sisters Falls. There are abandoned farms dotted around the lower edges and sustainable settlements, including the quaint village of Geiranger with just 250 inhabitants.

6. Pulpit Rock

Situated within the Lysefjord, this is one of the most photographed spots in Norway, but not everyone has the stomach for it; a flat-topped viewing platform (25 metres by 25 metres) leading out over a sheer 600+ metre drop into the fjord below, a natural formation – rather than man-made intervention.

Pulpit Rock, known locally as Preikestolen, makes for a rewarding 10km hike. You’ll need to allow a good 4-5 hours and pack plenty of snacks!

Find out more :

7. The Atlantic Road

Without a doubt, one of the most picturesque drives in the world. A five-mile-long stretch that winds and weaves its way over the Atlantic Ocean (hence the name!) connecting the island of Averøy with the mainland at Eide.

The Atlantic Road, or Atlanterhavsvegen as it’s also known, was initially going to be a railway line but was completed as a road and opened in 1989.

It’s a little out of the way of the usual tourist spots but is well worth a detour for the spectacular views alone. 

8. Bear Island

For true Arctic adventure and escapism, it’s hard to bear Bear island. Getting there is an adventure in itself. Sitting in the Barents Sea, it’s the southernmost island in the Svalbard archipelago which doesn’t have the fjords and bays of other islands so landing is more challenging.

Bear Island is remote and rarely explored (although Secret Atlas runs a trip there!), and people make the trip for the island’s untamed scenery with sheer bird cliffs. The island is home to huge numbers of birds like black-legged kittiwakes, puffins, and little auks.  

Sitting at the edge of the Arctic Circle, and about 33 nautical miles from the mainland lies Traena. The beautiful municipality of islands, islets and reefs dates back 9000 year (to the Stone Age) and it’s one of the first settlements in Norway. Only four of the islands are inhabited, and you can visit for hiking and historical remnants, with Husøy as the main hub for accommodation.

On Sanna also known as “the mountain island”, you can visit a mountain cave that has been used for ancient rituals for over a thousand years. For a more contemporary sonic experience, visit in summer to experience Trænafestivalen – one of the more remote and unique music festivals in Europe.

10.  Nærøyfjord

Norway is full of fjords, but one of the most beautiful and dramatic is Nærøyfjord. It’s actually a branch of The Sognefjord –  Norway’s longest fjord and is on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. It’s one of the narrowest fjords in Europe and is surrounded by soaring mountains.

Taking a trip down the Nærøyfjord by boat or kayak, you’ll get up close to stunning nature including waterfalls and look up to see tiny mountain farms above you. It’s also a great place for wildlife watching where you might get to see eagles, dolphins, seals and otters.

11. Sognefjord

Known as “The King of the fjords” – Sognefjord on the west coast, is the longest, and deepest fjord in Norway. It was formed in the last Ice Age which created the high mountain peaks and deep valleys that make up its landscape.

Visitors come to get up close to nature, to explore the different fjords that branch off Sognefjord as well as verdant valleys, mountain ranges and glaciers. For some of the best views, hop on the  Flåm Railway – for a twisty ride through the mountains and sweeping views over the peaks, valleys and waterfalls. Grab a window seat for one of the most memorable train journeys in the world.

12. Oslo (with Fram Museum)

Although it’s Norway’s natural wonder that captivates travellers, it’s capital city Oslo has a good mix of urban life and nature to satisfy the need to explore. It was named European Green City 2019 thanks to its dedication to conservation and reducing pollution.

Oslo is a pretty compact city, so you can easily stroll around or hop on a bike to its blend of new and old Scandinavian architecture. Many of its central areas are traffic-free these days, so walking and cycling is a more relaxed experience than in other European cities. 

Stop off at Fram museum to take a deep-dive into the city’s rich history including The Fram – the first ship built in Norway for polar research and used on an Arctic expedition by Fridtjof Nansen.  Oslo is nestled between the Oslofjord inlet and the lush greenery of the Oslomarka forest – so you can take a short metro ride for a big dose of nature, which according to Norwegians is the best medicine. We’re certainly not going to disagree.

13. Ålesund

The small west coast city is the gateway to exploring Norway’s vast fjords and mountain landscapes. Take a wander through Ålesund’s downtown Art Nouveau district to explore colourful buildings, then head over to the Fjellstua viewpoint to take in the surrounding scenery.

If it’s raining, you can take shelter by crate-digging at one of the city’s record shops like Serie Antivariet and Jukebox, and warm up with a bowl of local fish soup.

As well as its proximity to famous fjords like the spectacular Geirangerfjord, people come to Ålesund for outdoor activities like hiking and alpine skiing, cross country skiing, and a bit of fishing too. Take a short trip out of the city to visit Alnes Lighthouse or do a challenging mountain hike up Slogen. 

14. Trondheim

Norway’s third-largest city is another great place to explore by bike. And like other Norweigan cities, nature is on its doorstep. Start with a cycle around Bakklandet, the city’s old quarter which has paved sections for bikes so it’s easier to navigate the cobbled streets and enjoy the colourful wooden buildings – and even a lift to take you up to a view point.

Then back down again to check out the local food scene, including Mat Fra Hagen vegan restaturant.

Trondheim is also home to international music conference Trondheim Calling, which is like a Nordic South by SouthWest which is on in the winter. To get away from the city, visit nearby Monk’s island for some solitude and reflection, or explore the islets at Trondheimsfjord.

15. Jotunheimen National Park

Exploring the great outdoors is part of any trip to Norway, but there’s a whole lot of nature to explore in the “home of the giants” in the east.  Jotunheimen is the most famous of Norway’s national parks, and home to over 250 mountains, including the tallest Galdhøpiggen – the highest in northern Europe.

It’s a haven for hikers, with tens of thousands of people coming to Besseggen Ridge each year, including famous Norweigan playwright Henrik Ibsen, who wrote about it in his play Peer Gynt. There are many more hiking trails to take on too, as well as plenty of places to camp either wild camping, or rest up in a cosy wooden hut or cabin. 

But it’s not just a great place to hike, people visit Jotunheimen to see glaciers, beautiful lakes, cycling routes, rafting, and horse riding.  

Find out more 

16. Stavanger 

The port city on Norway’s south west coast is surrounded by mountains (including Pulpit Rock) and beaches. Take a wander around the historic Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger), to explore lots of little museums where you can learn about things like viking history, as well 18th and 19th century wooden houses.

The port is beautiful, and comes into its own in the summer months. There is lots of street art to appreciate too, and it even has its own dedicated street art festival called Nuart which takes place in later summer. Stavanger is also a gateway to more mountain hikes and natural wonders like Sverd i fjell and Kjeragbolten.

17. Trolltunga

Translating as Troll Tongue, Trolltunga is a spectacular rock formation in the Vestland region. It’s also a pretty strenuous hike, so guided  group hikes are recommended (although experienced hikers can go from early June to the end of September only) and it will take around 10 -12 hours.

It was formed during the ice age, the name refers to the famous jutting cliff edge, which  stands about 700 metres above lake Ringedalsvatnet. The nearest village is Odda but it’s also about a three hour drive from Bergen.

If you’re going to go, make sure you’ve got the right gear you’re feeling fit enough, mountain rescue volunteers have to pick up inexperienced (and ill equipped) hikers at Trolltunga every year.

18. North Cape

Visitors from across the continent have been drawn to the Nordkapp (North Cape) since the 19th century, to see what lies at the most northerly point in Europe. With two months of midnight sun, the summer  (mid May until late July ) is a perfect time to explore that for yourself. And what can you expect to find?

Some pretty amazing views over the Barents sea for a start. But you can also wander around pretty fishing villages, learn about viking history, witness rugged landscapes and see an abundance of birdlife –  including puffins and cormorants at the Gjesværstappan cliffs.

19. Skudeneshavn

For quaint, scenic small town charm with a nautical vibe, visit Skudeneshavn on the southern tip of the island of Karmøy, western Norway. You can step back in time via the Time Travel app where local characters guide you through the town’s heritage trail filled with pristine, old white buildings with red roofs.

Follow the scent of fresh waffles in the air, in the old town until you get to Majorstuen Kafe for waffles and curiosities. Then take a stroll to The City Park to visit one of Skudeneshavn’s most famous residents, an old ship’s figurehead called The Lady in the Park. The park is also home to another local treasure, the moonstone which is a remnant of rock, originally believed to have been a meteorite, and thought to date back a whopping 800 million years.

The whole Karmøy region is a bit of hidden gem within Norway too – full of beautiful unspoilt beaches, view points, and hiking trails.

20. Fredrikstad

One of Norway’s three fortress cities, Friedrikstad is where the river Glomma meets the Skagerrak, close to the Swedish border. You can visit the old fortress walls, which date back to the 15th century, and find out more about it’s history in the small museum there. The Old Town is filled with charming cobbled streets, small galleries and cosy cafés and bakeries.

The New Town is lively in the summer, where people gather on terraces, particularly if local football team Fredrikstad FK are playing. There are plenty of swimming spots close by too, including Maerappanna, a beautiful nature reserve at a peninsula with rock formations overlooking the Oslofjord. The area is also a gateway to the Hvaler archipelago of over 800 islands and inlets.

21. Mjelle beach, Bodø

The white and red coloured sand of Mjelle beach near the northern town of Bodø is a spectacular place to wander and capture stunning photographs. The sand gets its unusual colour due to tiny gemstone particles (garnet minerals).

It’s also a fairly easy and relaxed hike, perfect for a midsummer trip, where you can wander across the rock walled trails, pack a picnic and swim in the turquoise waters below.

But don’t let the tropical colours fool you – the water is pretty bracing, at around 11-12°C . Wandering around the coastal trails, you’ll also find pretty red huts and probably a few sheep along the way. Although it’s a fairly popular spot, it’s not really crowded so perfect for a day of laid back exploring.

22. Rondane National Park 

Between Oslo and Trondheim, lies Norway’s oldest National Park. Rondane was established in 1962, and is home to reindeer, very high mountain peaks, rolling hills, old farming villages and  Lake Rondvatnet at its centre . There are lots of hiking trails,and easier walks that still deliver on the views front like the Langglupdalen valley.

You can also go horse riding through the mountain forests of  Høvringen and Heidal, and go rafting in the river Sjoa – which is also where Olympians train. The landscapes are beautiful during every season, but visit in the winter for cross country skiing, mountain skiing and stunning light for photography.

23. Nigardsbreen

Get up close to one of the most accessible glaciers in Norway. Nigardsbreen in western Norway  (between Bergen and Alesund) is actually an arm of Jostedalsbreen – the largest glacier in Europe. The ice reaches almost to the shore, and  you can go on guided glacier hikes, exploring the ice in detail and witnessing a stunning Arctic landscape as you go.

Walking down to the blue glacier’s tongue is an incredible sight to behold, especially where rapids crash around it. And you can even walk within the frozen walls of the glacier’s ice tunnels for a pretty unforgettable experience.

  24. Skjervøy

Although Tromso is famous (rightly so) for witnessing the Northern Lights and Whale watching, there are less well known spots in Norway for remote nature appreciation. Skjervøy in the north is an island and fishing community close to mountains which is great for whale watching and other outdoor activities like skiing.

It’s also a significant location in maritime history – Skjervøy  was also the first port of call made by the  Arctic explorer Fridtjof Nansen’s Fram ship on its return from an expedition to the North Pole in 1896. These days, people come to see Orcas and humpback whales in the wintertime, stay in cosy cabins (and you can rent saunas) and even rent boats to go fishing too.  

The adventurous railway isn’t the only reason to visit this beautiful village, it’s worth exploring at ground level too – particularly for cycling and hiking. You can also take a boat ride down the UNESCO World Heritage site Nærøyfjord for dramatic landscapes and an abundance of waterfalls.

You can also meet some modern day Vikings at the Viking Valley in Guvagen – they’re so into that era of history they live the same way (well, not all aspects of their lifestyle, obvs!).

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The 13 most incredible experiences in Norway

Mar 12, 2024 • 7 min read

From wild and wonderful landscapes to culture and incredible food, Norway has it all © Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld Getty Images

Norway is renowned for its natural beauty, with its legion of fjords, glaciers and mountains demanding the attention of visitors.

But, if you can pull your gaze away from the awe-inspiring landscape for just a few brief moments, you’ll also discover cutting-edge cultural venues, historic architecture and a quietly confident restaurant scene – characteristics that often fly under the radar when it comes to discussing Norway’s charms. 

From cruising the fjords and camping in the wild  to tasting the freshest seasonal produce, these are my favorite 13 things to experience on a visit to Norway .

1. Gaze at sheer cliffs as you sail down the fjords

The result of epic glacial action over the course of millennia, the scale of Norway’s fjords has to be seen to be believed. Cliffs soar on each side of these ice-carved channels – some are sheer rock faces, some are gently inclined, covered in lush vegetation and dotted with farmhouses.

Hundreds of meandering fjords snake inland from the sea up much of Norway’s coastline, and they're a key part of traversing this stunning part of Scandinavia . But the most impressive are concentrated in the west and southwest , accessible from Bergen and Stavanger . The 203-km-long (126 miles) Sognefjord, other-worldly Lysefjorden and the UNESCO-crowned Geirangerfjord will all leave you speechless.

2. Experience Sami culture in Finnmark

The indigenous people of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia, the Sami traditionally lived nomadically, moving their herds of reindeer across the Arctic landscape in tune with the seasons. Only a minority of the Sami in Norway still herd reindeer today, but Sami culture is thriving. 

Visit Karasjok to explore the Sami Parliament and Sami National Museum , and make a date to visit Kautokeino for the Sami Easter festival to see reindeer racing and hear the lilting sounds of the joik (sung poems) at the Sami Grand Prix.

3. Tour the Lofoten Islands

Cutting a jagged profile against the Atlantic horizon, the Lofoten archipelago promises wild outdoor adventures and draws artists, surfers, kayakers, hikers, fishers and weekend trippers alike. Drive or hop on a bus to weave your way down the island chain from top to bottom, passing pretty fishing villages with their red-painted rorbuer (fishers’ cabins).

Planning tip: Small but fascinating galleries and museums such as the Norsk Fiskeværsmuseum  (Norwegian Fishing Village Museum) tell the story of the islands’ main industry and their enduring connection to the sea.

4. Tread the boards at Bryggen

The colorful wooden wharves of Bryggen in Bergen have existed since the 12th century and became the headquarters for the Hanseatic League (a medieval guild of traders) in Norway. Despite several devastating fires, the importance of the harborside quarter has persisted for centuries.

Galleries, bars and shops now occupy the tumbledown timber buildings, and simply getting lost in the narrow wooden passageways between them is the main appeal.

Planning tip:  Do your best to time your visit for when the cruise trippers have set sail again – exploring without the crowds is a much more pleasant experience.

5. Catch the rays of the midnight sun

Summer brings the midnight sun to Norway’s north, bathing the landscape in a warm glow all night long. Lasting anywhere from a couple of weeks in Bodø to a couple of months in Longyearbyen , the phenomenon occurs due to the tilt of the earth as it orbits the sun. 

Planning tip:  Turn time upside down and go hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, or wildlife-watching when you’d normally be reaching for your pajamas.

6. Hike to Preikestolen

Seemingly defying the laws of physics, Preikestolen (also known as Pulpit Rock) is an angular plateau that juts out from a cliff face over 600m (1968ft) above the Lysefjord, near Stavanger . This geological oddity has graced the ‘gram of many a social media influencer, but its popularity needn’t put you off. 

Visit in the low season and get there early to ascend through sun-dappled forests, climb rocky steps laid by sherpas and walk alongside refreshing plunge pools. You’ll need to be reasonably fit for the four-hour round-trip, but the heart-stopping views from Preikestolen to the fjord beneath are worth every step.

Detour:  If this incredible experience just leaves you wanting more, Norway has many more hikes for you to enjoy on your next vacation.

7. Chase the northern lights

Witnessing the aurora borealis is a soul-stirring experience, and the will-they-won’t-they game of chase is all part of the fun. With a bit of patience, you’ll be rewarded with an ethereal display. Gaze in wonder as shimmering streaks of white, green, red, or purple light undulate across the endless black sky, perhaps for seconds, perhaps for hours.

Planning tip:  You’re most likely to see the lights on dark, clear nights in the far north between late November and early March. Tromsø and Lofoten make good bases to start your search. 

8. Head backstage at the Oslo Opera House

The striking wedge of snow-white marble and glass on Oslo’s waterfront is Norway’s home of opera, but the atmosphere here is far from elitist. Architecture aces Snøhetta designed the  Oslo Opera House to be an extension of the harborfront, inviting you to meander all over it.

Enter for free to feel the contrasting warmth of the blonde-wood interior or, even better, join a guided tour to peek backstage and see set designers, musicians and dancers preparing for performances.

9. Go Gothic at Nidaros Cathedral

Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim is an ostentatious medieval masterpiece. It’s a far cry from its humble beginnings in 1070 as a wooden chapel on the gravesite of Viking King Olav. 

The ornate exterior of the world’s most northerly Gothic cathedral is studded with 76 sculptures of saints and figures from the bible. Inside, the atmosphere is almost eerily peaceful, and the dimly lit interior pulls your attention to the 12m-high (39ft), 10,000-piece stained-glass rose window. In summer, climb the tower’s 172 narrow steps for sweeping views over Norway’s historical capital.

10. Embark on a scenic railway journey

There are few better ways to feast on Norway’s picturesque scenery than traveling by train. The country’s most well-known train ride is the stunning journey from Oslo to Bergen , which glides across the Hardangervidda plateau. 

But the 10-hour trip on the Nordlandsbanen rivals that southern route. Crossing the Arctic Circle and connecting Trondheim to Bodø, the journey hugs the coast and rolls through the rugged mountainous landscape of the Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park .

11. Treat your tastebuds to Nordic flavors

No longer lagging behind its Nordic neighbors on the cuisine scene, Norway stands out with a raft of modern Nordic restaurants. The freshest produce is elevated – think baked beetroot with yogurt or halibut with leeks and chard. 

Can’t quite spring for chef Christopher Haatuft’s "neo-fjordic" creations at Bergen’s Lysverket ? Hit Restaurant Rest for a gourmet New Nordic experience in Oslo. It takes a sustainable approach by using perfectly good produce that would normally by discarded by top restaurants.  Ekebergrestauranten  offers views from the terrace of a functionalist building atop an escarpment in Ekebergparken. Also Mathallen Oslo is a less expensive option with quality food vendors offering different cuisines and outstanding dishes made for sharing.

12. Go wild camping

Norway’s "right to roam" ( allemannsretten or "every man’s right") opens up its beaches, mountain ranges and national parks to wild campers. Pitch up under the stars surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Will you sleep under the midnight sun on Kvalvika beach in the Lofoten Islands , or amongst the peaks of Jotunheimen National Park ?

Planning tip:  The privilege of wilderness camping comes with responsibility: don’t camp too close to houses, observe all fire bans and leave your campsite as though you’d never even been there.

13. Spot polar bears on Svalbard

A journey to Svalbard is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Halfway between Norway’s mainland and the North Pole, the archipelago is a vast wilderness of snow-capped mountain ranges, glaciers... and polar bears. 

For safety’s sake, a pricey organized tour is the only practical way for a visitor to go bear-spotting here. But responsibly witnessing the knife-edge existence of these majestic Arctic mammals may yet help to ensure their survival.

This article was first published Oct 14, 2021 and updated Mar 12, 2024.

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20 Spellbinding Place to Explore to in Norway

The second happiest country in the world (according to the United Nations World Happiness Report) is also one of my favourite countries!

It’s a tough choice in such a pristine and beautiful country, but I would love to share some of its special places with you based on my many visits…

1. The Fjords

This is what Norway is becoming most famous for! The UNESCO-listed Fjords are now appearing on many travellers’ bucket lists, and with good reason—they are one of the most naturally beautiful and dramatic landscapes in Europe and are one of the top attractions in the Scandinavian country.

The glacial valleys are eerily silent and surrounded by high mountains and waterfalls, which give the area an otherworldly beauty. Sognefjord is the longest, deepest, and most celebrated of the country’s waterways, closely followed by Hardangerfjord, and I would recommend a visit.

You should also visit the Jostedalsbreen glacier (the largest ice sheet in Europe), Nordfjord, and Geirangerfjord, perhaps the most scenically impressive of all the fjords.

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Scattered over a row of islands on the western coast of Norway, Ålesund is a thriving fishing town that – following a huge fire in 1904 – was rebuilt in a beautifully colourful Art Nouveau style. I was enamoured! 

It boasts a vibrant culture, excellent shopping opportunities, and views over the area from Mount Aksla. I suggest soaking up the town’s unique atmosphere before heading out on a guided tour of the fjords.

Also, don’t miss the breathtaking Geirangerfjord for gorgeous photo opportunities! 

3. Trolltunga

This is an insanely gorgeous location and one of the most spectacular scenic cliffs in the country – but it’s only for the brave! 

Otherwise known as the ‘troll’s tongue’, it was formed during the ice age when a glacial water froze a hunk of this mountain and caused it to break off, leaving a thin protruding ledge which hovers about 2,300 feet above the lake below.

If you’re up for the challenge, it’s only a four-hour trek for a lifetime photo opportunity! Just remember to be very careful!

The rainy but beautiful city of Bergen was apparently the inspiration for the fictional Frozen in the hit Disney animation.

The picturesque city is one of the prettiest in the Nordic country and is peppered with medieval buildings, Norwegian churches, and colourful timber houses.

It’s a laid-back place with a selection of good museums, quirky independent stores, and al fresco cafes but I personally think the biggest draw is its status as being the gateway to the famous fjords! 

5. Lofoten Islands

This scenic, unspoilt archipelago is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets! Though the collection of islands lies within the Arctic Circle, they are blessed with warmer temperatures due to the Gulf Stream.

It’s a beautifully traditional place where life is simple, and tourism is minimal. This is where whale watching, spectacular walks, and scenery await!

To crank the romance factor up a gear I would recommend staying in one of the cosy fisherman’s cabins, surrounded by still blue waters and unspoilt mountain landscapes that have to be seen to be believed! 

Even Norway’s capital is attractive! Yes, it’s expensive, and yes, it doesn’t have a long list of world-famous attractions, but Oslo is clean, laid-back, and surrounded by a beautiful fjord and acres of lush woodland.

The architecture is an eclectic mix of old and new. The underrated city boasts some world-class museums, including the National Gallery, which houses Edvard Munch’s famous painting, ‘The Scream.’

The impossibly pretty village of Flam is located in the fjords of southwestern Norway. Home to museums that truly showcase and highlight the history of this city, as a visitor, you’ll be able to go on an explorative journey with the Flam Railway, which will show you the city in a way that walking through it just can’t.

Flam Railway runs through one of the wildest landscapes in the country and has been called the best train journey in the world.

Once you’re finished, you may want to take a quick trip to the Flam Railway Museum or even head to Stegastein, the viewing platform over Aurlandsfjord, which stretches 30 metres across the land.

8. Skudeneshavn

I would suggest heading for the lovely old town filled with wooden houses, twisting narrow roads (with almost no traffic) and boat moorings, cafes, shops, and galleries.

Expect to see more than 200 white wooden buildings that their owners have lovingly restored and maintained.

9. Fredrikstad

There are three fortress towns in Norway, but this one claims to be one of the best-preserved old towns in Scandinavia, and in my opinion, it’s one of the prettiest to visit.

The Old Town has a mix of traditional stores and antique shops, all framed within the extraordinary fortress walls.

Just outside the fortress, you’ll find a picture-postcard village with cobbled streets, a cathedral with stained-glass work by Emanuel Vigeland, and a steeple that also doubles as a lighthouse.

10. Jotunheimen National Park

Boasting the largest concentration of mountains higher than 2,000 metres in Northern Europe, the centrally located Jotunheimen National Park is one of the most popular national parks to travel to in Norway.

Encompassing several mountain ranges—including Norway’s 29 highest peaks—the area attracts hikers, cross-country and alpine skiers, cyclists, and climbers from all over Europe.

In addition to unique flora and fauna, expect to catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls the park home, including reindeer, fox, marten, mink, wolverines, lynx, and even the rare golden eagle.

11. Svalbard

Fans of untouched landscapes will love Svalbard, an archipelago between the Norwegian Sea, the Arctic Ocean, the Barents Sea, and the Greenland Sea.

It’s an extremely mysterious place filled with wild, craggy mountains and pristine glaciers. It is one of the northernmost permanently inhabited spots on the planet (but less than 3,000 people live there).

Svalbard is an excellent destination in Norway for wild spotting. An abundance of animals, including polar bears, reindeer, walruses, and polar foxes, wander the wild, lonely lands.

The fishing village of Reine is nestled securely at the mouth of Reinefjord in the west of Lofoten, but this naturally beautiful Norwegian place deserves a mention.

Within this mountainous village, you can find your pleasures on the open sea with local fishermen looking to find the catch of their lives out on the oceans.

There’s also extremely accessible kayaking for any interested persons. Reine is the ultimate place to find a piece of yourself out on the outskirts, hiking through the mountains to find the absolute perfect place to sit and take in the aurora in one of the clearest skies you’ll come across anywhere in the world.

13. Mjelle beach, Bodø

Whenever you walk through a seaside town, you almost expect the air of seawater and seaweed—an odd but pleasant scent most welcome as you travel towards the stunning Mjelle beach.

This beach has been called a photographer’s paradise in Norway because of its natural, almost magical scenery.

The beach itself is only half an hour’s drive from Bodø, and the locals will be happy to tell you some fascinating tales about the Red Beach, which is said to be infused with gemstone particles.

14. Rondane National Park 

If you’re more of an adventurer looking for the next mountain to take you to incredible heights and views, look no further than Rondane National Park .

This tranquil mountain range is the perfect place all year round – from summer hiking to winter skiing and everything in between.

Rondane is the oldest National Park in Norway. Its several areas are rich in plant life, adding to its beauty.

15. Trondheim

It may not seem like Trondheim is a large city compared to those you may have seen elsewhere in the world, but in Norway, it’s actually the third largest available and was once the country’s capital.

There are several historical and great landmarks that any tourist should try to see when they visit, including the medieval Nidaros Cathedral and the robust Kristiansten Fortress, both of which have tours available through various organisations.

Another notable landmark within Trondheim is the Old Town Bridge, with its red portal structures, built in 1681 and overlooking the river.

16. Stavanger

This city, located in southwest Norway, is a gem! It is home to the striking 10th-century Stavanger Cathedral and colourful houses.

The Stavanger region is also awash with breathtaking surroundings and long, white beaches that add even more mystifying touches to the area.

For the hikers among you, the popular Preikestolen offers a mountainous hike up a cliff that is 604 metres in height and has a solidly flat top – giving you some of the best panoramic views around.

17. Nigardsbreen Glacier

Glaciers are natural wonders that are often viewed from afar. Still, glacier guiding is quite popular at Nigardsbreen, where experienced guides are happy to take you and your children on safe walks among the blue ice.

It’s a stunning natural attraction and an experience like no other for anyone over five. You can gaze into the ice at close range and get lost in the spectacular reality of one of the most accessible branches of the Josteldalsbreen Glacier.

Imagine walking along an ice structure encompassing an entire area and is so beautifully formed that it looks like blue crystal glass even on a dim day—that is what this experience offers! 

18. Femundsmarka National Park

Femundsmarka National Park is one of the largest areas of continuous and unspoiled wilderness. When looking for a relaxing day of walking, you’re looking at the perfect spot.

Miles of land await enthusiastic exploration, and the park even offers several great canoeing and fishing locations.

The Norwegian Trekking Association has called it one of the best three hiking areas in Norway, and judging by the views among the trees, we’d have to agree.

It could be possible to walk for hours and never come across another person during your travels, perfect for anyone looking to return to nature in beautiful Norway and discover something about themselves.

19. Solund, Sogn og Fjordane

This place is utterly charming! Because of the 1700 islands, islets, and skerries (give or take) to the west of Norway, boats have taken to islands, hopping between them. Solund has become a popular boating, fishing, and kayaking destination.

The endless islands offer great wind and wave protection when the weather isn’t great, but on sunnier days, you may travel a short distance to the open sea.

Of course, many activities on land include marked hiking trails and cycling routes surrounded by natural beauty. Summer in Solund also boasts guided tours that can take you to Utvær.

20. Henningsvær

Henningsvær is located among several small islands off the coast of Austvågøya. It’s a notable fishing location, but the main attraction in this beautiful corner of the country is the incredible views from anywhere in the village.

Henningsvær has been called “the Venice of the North,” likening the small village to the magnificent area of Italy that everyone knows and praises. Why? because Henningsvær is home to a world-colliding mix of traditional and modern architecture that seems to clutch the ocean in its grasp.

The entrance to the village, a narrow waterside road at the base of the mountain, is, in my opinion, the best way to start your Norway journey! Enjoy!

Location of Norway 

Norway is located in th Nordic area of Northern Europe and the North Atlantic, along with Denmark, Finland , Iceland, Norway, Sweden , the Faroe Islands and Greenland.

24 thoughts on “20 Spellbinding Place to Explore to in Norway”

These pictures are awesome, I would absolutely love to go to Norway now±

I found you through the Ever Changing Scenery reading list. I’ve been wanting to visit Norway for a few years, way before Frozen was released. I have a friend in Oslo, but some of these sites are unknown to me. I would love to see the polar bears in Svalbard and that gorgeous scenery in Lofoten.

absolutely stunning photos as always. i’ve wanted to go to Norway for a LONG time. ever since i fell in love with A-ha! hahahaha

Ha ha they were a beautiful band! 🙂

Wow, such spectacular photos! Norway is on my radar to go, I’m just afraid of the crazy prices I’ve been told about ..

It is expensive, but the scenery makes up for it 🙂

I could stare at these pics all day! Absolutely gorgeous.

i’ve met a few people from norway recently who LOVE their country. combined with these photos, i’m thinking i need to get there sooner rather than later!! xo, ashley

Wow Norway has not been on the top half of my list until reading this. Thanks for the inspiration and places – most of which I had never heard of.

Ha ha thanks Ana! 🙂

Wow! Norway is such a beautiful country! I would definitely like to visit Oslo. It looks astonishing!

Gorgeous Norway! Love the photos!

Wow, I so want to go to Norway now – it’s not somewhere I had really thought about before, but it looks so beautiful! Ålesund looks amazing, that photo actually looks like a toy town, cannot believe it’s real!

Definitely a surprising country, much more to it than people realise!

PS – I included this post in my latest monthly round up 🙂

Norway looks just epic! I’d be definitely hiking Trolltunga once I’ll save enough for the travel. Norway’s unfortunately isn’t that budget friendly 🙁

Sadly that’s Norway’s only down side!

I’ve seen a lot of travel selfies taken in Trolltunga. That’s on my bucket list!

Yes I’ve seen loads on instagram, very brave! 😉

What a gorgeous country. There are so many places to visit and see. I would love to go here someday!

All these places look incredible, I think Norway has moved up several places on my list! 🙂

Love Norway incredible country, especially if it doesn’t rain!

I would love to go to Norway – sailing through the fjords and visiting Bergen are definitely high travel priorities. Great photos!

Woah, what a beautiful country! I’m hanging to get there one day. It’s just a little pricey for me at the moment.

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Best things to do in Norway

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updated 07.06.2024

With its rearing mountains and deep, blue-black fjords, Norway remains a wilderness outpost in a tamed and crowded continent. Everything here is on the grand scale with the country boasting some of Europe’s harshest and most beautiful land- and seascapes. Read our run-down of the best things to do in Norway.

1. Explore the beauty of Geirangerfjord

2. go to wildlife safaris in svalbard, 3. have a look at the intricate sculptures in vigelandsparken, 4. take a train ride on the flåmsbana, 5. visiting bergen - one of the first things to do in norway, 6. be surprised by the intricate architecture in ålesund, 7. go whale-watching at andenes, 8. visit medieval nidaros domkirke in trondheim, 9. explore the jostedalsbreen glacier, 10. have a look at medieval woodcarvings in urnes stave church, 11. feel the viking spirit alongside the oseberg longship, 12. experience the northern lights, 13. appreciate the art of edvard munch, 14. explore alta rock carvings, 15. immerse yourself in the norwegian way of life at henningsvær, 16. cross-country skiing - one of the best things to do in norway in winter, 17. visit the norsk fiskevaersmuseum in å, 18. go swimming at the oslofjord.

• 19. Observe the Værøy's sea-bird colonies

20. Embrace the beauty of Hjørundfjord

21. take a cruise on the hurtigruten coastal boat, 22. spend a night in a lighthouse, 23. stay at juvet landscape hotel, 24. walk in the jotunheimen mountains, 25. witness the midnight sun in the arctic circle.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Norway , your essential guide for visiting Norway .

Shadowed by rearing mountains, the S-shaped Geirangerfjord is one of Norway’s most stunningly beautiful fjords. Any approach to Geiranger is spectacular.

Arriving by ferry reveals the village tucked away in a hollow at the eastern end of the fjord while approaching from the north by road involves thundering along a fearsome set of switchbacks on the Ørnevegen (‘Eagle Way’) for a first view of the village and the fjord glinting in the distance.

Enjoy a tour of Norway's most picturesque locations including Ålesund, Hellesylt, Stranda, Sykkylven, Geirangerfjord, and Eidsdal.

Find accommodation options to stay near Geirangerfjord

Geirangerfjord, Norway © Nikiforov Alexander/Shutterstock

From polar-bear spotting to birdwatching to husky drives, the vast, glaciated landscapes of this gorgeous Arctic archipelago offer a spectacular range of wildlife safaris as well as a variety of other things to do in Norway.

Guided tours are big business in Svalbard and you can choose anything from hiking and snowmobiling to kayaking. Or try ice-caving, dog-sledging or boat trips. For those who wish to see wildlife, Zodiac offers boat and snowmobile safari trips. The most prized sighting of course is of the local polar bears. However, there there are all manner of other Arctic fauna too.

Or, try taking a trip to one of the former coal mines. Tours of glaciers — and glacier tunnels — are also popular.

Find accommodation options to stay at Svalbard

Polar bear in Svalbard, Norway © Ritesh Chaudhary/Shutterstock

Before his death in 1943, Gustav Vigeland populated Oslo’s favourite park with his fantastical, phantasmagorical sculptures. It’s a literally fantastic concoction, medieval in spirit and complexity, and it was here that Vigeland had the chance to let his imagination run riot.

From the monumental wrought-iron gates on Kirkeveien, the central path takes you to the footbridge over the river and a world of frowning, fighting and posturing bronze figures – the local favourite is Sinnataggen (The Angry Child). Beyond, the central fountain is an enormous bowl representing the burden of life, supported by straining, sinewy bronze Goliaths.

Discover Oslo's unique attractions and learn about the city's history on a comprehensive guided tour . See panoramic views of the city from Holmenkollen Hill and learn about Gustav Vigeland.

Vigeland sculpture in Oslo park, Norway © FrauTori/Shutterstock

A ride on the Flåm railway from high up in the mountains to the fjords way down below is one of the most dramatic train journeys in the world and one of the best things to do in Norway.

The lonely railway junction of Myrdal, just forty minutes or so by train from Voss, is the start of one of Europe’s most celebrated branch rail lines, the Flåmsbana, a 20km, 900m plummet down the Flåmsdal valley to Flåm. This fifty-minute train ride should not be missed if at all possible, despite the hordes of tourists – it’s part of the ‘Norway in a Nutshell' route.

Embark on Guided Full-Day Tour to Nærøyfjord & Flåm Railway . Experience the Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest fjords in the world, and travel by road, rail, and water while admiring the panoramic views.

Flam railway, Norway © Alex Jackson/Shutterstock

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Norway’s second city is an eminently appealing place with a clutch of fine old buildings, great restaurants and top-notch art galleries. Bergen is one of Norway’s most enjoyable cities, boasting a spectacular setting, amid seven hills and sheltered to the north, south and west by a series of straggling islands.

There’s plenty to see in town too, from sturdy old stone buildings and terraces of tiny wooden houses to a veritable raft of museums and art galleries, while just outside the city limits are Edvard Grieg’s home, Troldhaugen, as well as the charming open-air Gamle Bergen (Old Bergen) museum.

Where to stay in Bergen:

• Best for location: Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen
• Best for unique and charming vibes: Det Hanseatiske Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bergen

Visiting Bergen is one of the essential things to do in Norway © Mikhail Varentsov/Shutterstock

Nudging out into the ocean, beguiling Ålesund boasts a wonderful coastal setting and a platoon of handsome Art Nouveau buildings. The fishing and ferry port of Ålesund is immediately – and distinctively – different from any other Norwegian town. Neither old clapboard houses nor functional concrete and glass is much in evidence in the old centre.

Instead, there’s a proud conglomeration of stone and brick, three-storey buildings, whose pastel-painted facades are lavishly decorated and topped off by a forest of towers and turrets. Neoclassical and mock-Gothic facades, decorative flowers and even a pharaoh or two, the whole ensemble ambling around the town’s several harbours.

Where to stay in Ålesund:

• Best for Art Nouveau design: Hotel 1904
• Best for the bay views: Scandic Parken

Find more accommodation options in Ålesund

Alesund, Geirangerfjord, Norway © Andrew Mayovskyy/Shutterstock

Pilots, minkes, humpbacks and sperm whales show themselves in all their glory during summertime excursions off the Vesterålen coast. At the very tip of Andøya island, Andenes strains northwards, its solid breakwaters protecting a central lagoon like the pincers of a stag beetle.

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There’s no denying that Andenes feels rather like the end of the world, but the combined effects of the Gulf Stream and the proximity of the Eggakanten continental shelf make the waters off Andenes especially rich in wildlife – enough to spawn a small tourist industry built on whale-watching and wildlife safaris.

Sperm whale, Norway© Kjersti Joergensen/Shutterstock

Trondheim’s vaunted Gothic and neo-Gothic domkirke (cathedral) is the largest medieval building in Scandinavia – and one of northern Europe’s finest religious structures. Although this city is often overlooked by travellers, it still boasts many attractions , with Domkirke Nidaros topping the list.

Gloriously restored following several fires and the upheavals of the Reformation, the cathedral, which is dedicated to St Olav remains the focus of any visit to Trondheim and is best explored in the early morning, when it’s reasonably free of tour groups. In the summertime, there are free English-language guided tours and you can climb the cathedral tower for a panoramic view over the city and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Trondheim:

• Best for high-quality stays: Britannia Hotel
• Best for B&B: Thon Hotel Prinsen

Find more accommodation options to stay in Trondheim

Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim © May_Lana/Shutterstock

Take a guided hike out onto this mighty ice plateau as it grinds and groans, slips and slithers its way across the mountains behind the Nordfjord. High up in the mountains, dominating the whole of the inner Nordfj ord, lurks the Jostedalsbreen glacier, a sprawling ice plateau that creaks, grumbles and moans out towards the Sognefj ord and the Jotunheimen mountains.

The glacier’s myriad arms – or nodules – nudge down into the nearby valleys, the clay particles of its meltwater giving the local rivers and lakes their distinctive light-green colouring. Catching sight of the ice nestling between peaks and ridges can be unnerving – the overwhelming sentiment being that somehow it shouldn’t really be there.

Nigardsbreen is a glacier arm of the large Jostedalsbreen glacier © Nicram Sabod/Shutterstock

Perhaps the finest of Norway’s stave churches, Urnes is distinguished by the frenzied intricacy of its woodcarving. Magnificently sited across the Lustrafjord from Solvorn, with the hamlet of Ornes down below and the mountains in the distance, Urnes Stave Church is the oldest and most celebrated of its type in Norway.

Parts of the building date back to the twelfth century, and its most remarkable feature is its wonderful medieval carvings. On the outside, incorporated into the north wall, are several exquisite door panels, alive with a swirling filigree of strange beasts and delicate vegetation.

Urnes stave church, Norway © Dmitry Naumov/Shutterstock

Of the handful of Viking longships that have survived, the Oseberg is the best preserved – and was unearthed complete with a rich treasure trove of burial goods. Viking decorative art was also pan-Scandinavian, with the most distinguished work being the elaborate and often grotesque animal motifs that adorned their longships, sledges, buildings and furniture.

The Oseberg longship is thought to be the burial longship of Åse, wife of the early ninth-century Yngling king, Gudrød the Hunter. She was also the mother of Halfdan the Black, whose body had a very different fate from her own – it was chopped up, and the bits were buried across his kingdom to ensure the fertility of the land.

Oseberg viking longship © Dmitry Reznichenko/Shutterstock

At once eerily disconcerting and bewitchingly beautiful, the aurora borealis flicker across northern Norway’s winter firmament at irregular and unpredictable intervals. Experiencing the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, is one of the best things to do in Norway, as the country is located in the northern part of the polar region where the lights are most commonly visible.

The Northern Lights are typically visible in Norway between late September and early April when the nights are long and the sky is clear. The best time to see the lights is when the solar activity is at its highest, which is typically between November and February.

If you are intrigued by the phenomenon of the northern lights, read the impression about a magical journey to Norway’s Arctic north from one of our Rough Guide authors.

This tailor-made Aurora tour in Finland, Norway and Sweden is perfect for people who want to explore the Arctic. Begin your journey from the southern part of Finland via Sweden up to the northern part of Norway. Most importantly, you will be hunting for the Northern Lights in the best locations!

Witnessing the Northern lights is on the top of the list of the best things to do in Norway © Shutterstock

Munch’s unsettling, highly charged paintings appear in several of the country’s museums, most memorably at the Nasjonalgalleriet in Oslo . Edvard Munch was a Norwegian painter, printmaker, and artist who is best known for his iconic painting "The Scream." Born in 1863 in Løten, Norway, Munch began studying art at a young age and went on to become one of the leading figures of the Expressionist movement.

"The Scream," one of Edvard Munch's most famous works, is housed in the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway. The Munch Museum is a dedicated museum of art and cultural history that is home to a collection of over 28,000 works by Munch and other Norwegian artists.

Where to stay in Oslo:

• Best for boutique stays: Saga Hotel
• Best for budget: Citybox Oslo

Find more attractive accommodation options to stay in Oslo

Bjørvika and the New Edvard Munch museum by night in Oslo © Morten Normann Almeland/Shutterstock

Simple in design but complex in their symbolism, Alta’s striking prehistoric rock carvings offer insight into the beliefs of the region’s earliest inhabitants. First impressions of Alta, some 400km from Tromsø, are not encouraging with the town’s twenty thousand inhabitants hunkering down in a string of humdrum, modern settlements.

The town does have a one-star attraction, the Alta Museum, home to the most extensive area of prehistoric rock carvings in northern Europe. Alta also makes an excellent base for explorations out into the Finnmarksvidda plateau, whether it be hiking, riverboat safaris, dog-sledging, snowmobiling or cross-country skiing.

Prehistoric petroglyphs in Alta © itociotola/Shutterstock

The Lofoten islands are peppered with scores of picture-postcard fishing villages, of which Henningsvær is among the most arresting. Henningsvær is one of Lofoten’s most picturesque and beguiling seaports, its lattice of cramped and twisting lanes lined with brightly painted wooden houses.

Tourism is the big deal here today and consequently, the town is well supplied with places to eat, drink and sleep – and there’s even some congestion as tour parties are bussed in and out. Nonetheless, it’s a lovely spot that well deserves an overnight stay at the very least.

Where to stay in Henningsvær:

• Best for modern stays: Tobiasbrygga
• Best for central location: Henningsvær Guesthouse

Find more accommodation options to stay in Henningsvær

Henningsver Lofoten, Norway © ChrisNoe/Shutterstock

Norway’s meadows, moors and mountains boast thousands of kilometres of powdered runs just waiting for adventuresome skiers. You might choose to start at Lillehammer. Cross-country skiing is a major facet of winter life in Norway. Approximately half the population are active in the sport, and many Norwegians still use skis to get to work or school.

Wherever you are in wintertime Norway, you’re never far from a cross-country ski route, whilst at major ski resorts sets of parallel ski tracks called loipe are cut in the snow by machines with the cross-country skier in mind: they provide good gliding conditions and help keep the skis parallel; some loipe are floodlit.

Find some more information about skiing in Norway in our A to B by cross-country ski in Norway guide .

Cross-country skiing in Norway © canadastock/Shutterstock

Hanging on for dear life between the mountains and the sea, the tiny village of Å has preserved many of its nineteenth-century buildings within the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum.

Pretty much left to its own devices for many decades, Å is something of a late nineteenth-century museum piece, where the pride of the historic place goes to the engaging Norsk Fiskerværsmuseum (Norwegian Fishing Village Museum).

There are about fifteen buildings to explore here, including a boathouse, forge, cod-liver-oil processing plant, rorbuer, and the houses of both the traders who dominated things hereabouts and the fishermen who did their bidding.

Fiskevaersmuseum and fishing huts in Lofoten © rweisswald/Shutterstock

The islands of the Oslofjord are great for swimming, sunbathing and walking – and they are just a short ferry ride from the city centre. Necklacing the inner Oslofjord, the archipelago of low-lying, lightly forested islands to the south of the city centre has become the capital’s summer playground.

On sunny, summer days, the city’s youth troop off to the less populated islands to party in earnest – with a bit of beach life added to the stew – though the prettiest island, Hovedøya, with its pocket-sized beaches and wooded walks, avoids the high jinks.

Oslofjord © Dreamstime

19. Observe the Værøy's sea-bird colonies

This remote Lofoten island is renowned for its profuse birdlife, which includes puffins, cormorants, kittiwakes, guillemots and even rare sea eagles. The second most southerly of the Lofoten Islands, Værøy is just 8km long, with a slender, lightly populated, grassy-green coastal strip that shunts up towards the steep, bare mountains.

The island is well known for its thriving bird colonies: Måstadfjell hosts well over a million puffins, eiders and gulls that breed noisily in the summer months. Værøy’s most important bird cliffs occupy the southwest corner of the island, but their sheer rockfaces are much too steep and slippery to approach on foot, so your best bet is to take a boat trip.

Puffins in Norway © Shutterstock

Wild and windswept, the deep, dark waters and icy peaks of this distant fjord make it one of Norway’s most elegiac. Only 40km long, the Hjørundfjord is one of the most visually impressive fjords in the whole of the country, a stirringly melancholic place of almost intimidating beauty. Hiking here is one of the best things to do in Norway for spectacular scenery.

Perhaps appropriately, it takes its name from the terrible times when the Black Death swept Norway, leaving the fjord with just one inhabitant, a woman called Hjørund, who wandered its peaks crying out at the heavens.

Hjorundfjord, Norway © TMAg/Shutterstock

See Norway in all its scenic splendour on the Hurtigruten coastal boat, which sails north all the way from Bergen to Kirkenes. Norway’s most celebrated ferry journey on the Hurtigruten coastal boat is among the unforgettable things to do in Norway.

To many, the Hurtigruten remains the quintessential Norwegian experience, and it’s certainly the best way to observe the drama of the country’s extraordinary coastline. Eleven ships combine to provide one daily service in each direction, and the boats stop off at over thirty ports on the way.

Cruise ship, Hurtigruten, Trollfjord, Norway © ChrisNoe/Shutterstock

Glued to a storm-battered islet, Ryvingen Fyr, near Mandal, is one of several lighthouses that make for fabulous places to stay. The Norsk Fyrhistorisk Forening is an umbrella organization that has taken the lead in preserving and conserving the country’s lighthouses.

Some of the lighthouses can be reached by road, but others can only be reached by boat and, with one or two lavish exceptions, the accommodation on offer – where it is on offer – is fairly frugal and inexpensive. The reward is the scenery – almost by definition these lighthouses occupy some of the wildest locations imaginable.

Norway is stunningly beautiful and is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world for a reason. For even more breathtakingly beautiful countries, check out our list of the most beautiful countries around the world .

Aerial view of Feistein fyr outside of the coast of Rogaland, Norway © PatrickL/Shutterstock

One of Norway’s most delightful hotels, with freestanding rooms, carved out of spruce, is set smack in a verdant river canyon – staying here is like watching an IMAX documentary from your bedroom. Juvet Landscape uber-cool and ultra-modern hotel that stands in the middle of a forested canyon with views of mountain peaks on one side, and the Valldøla River on the other.

Seven of the guest rooms feature deep, dark woods, playful bathrooms and unique Japanese-Norwegian recliners, each of which is perched so that you can gaze out at the wilderness beyond.

View near Juvet Landscape Hotel © CinaedKSM/Shutterstock

One of Norway’s most celebrated hiking areas, the Jotunheimen National Park is crisscrossed with trails and includes northern Europe’s two highest peaks. Norway’s most celebrated hiking area, Jotunheimen nasjonalpark (‘Home of the Giants’ National Park), lives up to its name: pointed summits and undulating glaciers dominate the skyline, soaring high above river valleys and lake-studded plateaus.

Covering no less than 1152 sq km, the park offers an amazing concentration of high peaks, more than two hundred of which rise above 1900m, including Norway’s (and northern Europe’s) two highest mountains, Galdhøpiggen (2469m) and Glittertind (2452m). Here also is Norway’s highest waterfall, Vettisfossen.

Gjende lake in Jotunheimen mountains, Norway © Swen Stroop/Shutterstock

On and above the Arctic Circle, an imaginary line drawn around the Earth at latitude 66.5 degrees north, there is a period around midsummer during which the sun never makes it below the horizon, even at midnight – hence the midnight sun. On the Arctic Circle itself, this only happens on one night of the year – at the summer solstice – but the further north you go, the greater the number of nights without darkness.

Obviously, the midnight sun is best experienced on a clear night, but fog or cloud can turn the sun into a glowing, red ball – a spectacle that can be wonderful but also strangely unsettling. All the region’s tourist offices have the exact dates of the midnight sun, though note that these are calculated at sea level; climb up a hill and you can extend the dates by a day or two.

Midnight sun on the Longyearbyen waterfront in Svalbard in the Norwegian Arctic © Shutterstock

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Ready for a trip to Norway ? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Norway . If you travel further in Norway, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Norway. For inspiration use the itineraries from The Rough Guide to Norway . A bit more hands-on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

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Home » Travel Guides » Norway » 15 Best Places to Visit in Norway

15 Best Places to Visit in Norway

Picture perfect landscapes – from world-famous fjords, unbelievable mountain vistas, to fantastic cities – await you in Norway. Each region – south, west, interior, and arctic – is distinctly different and when you take in the wonder that is the northern lights or the sun glinting off an enormous glacier in one holiday, then you’re having a great adventure. In balance with its incredible natural beauty is the brilliant social and cultural life.  There are cosmopolitan cities that highlight modern Scandinavian life as well as its traditional past. Norway is one of the most appealing and beautiful countries on earth.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Norway :

Alesund is on a narrow peninsula on the west coast and is considered the gateway to the majestic northwestern fjords and alpine mountains.  It’s home base for the countries massive cod-fishing fleet and is considered by all who visit to be a picturesque and quintessential Scandinavian town.

Alesund is built entirely in the Jugendstil art nouveau style of architecture after a fire in 1904. You can visit Jugendstilsenteret (Art Nouveau Centre) to learn more about this brick and stone style.  You can also take a quick hike up the 400 steps to Fjellstua lookout point to see absolutely amazing views of the mountains and nearby islands.

This is northern Norway’s largest city and is best known for the 18th century wooden houses and the gorgeous natural surroundings. Located on Tromsoya, one of many islands in the region, are beautiful forests to ramble through and the Fjellheisen cable car trip to the top of Storsteinen is highly recommended.

Visit historical and cultural spots like the Polar Museum and Polaria – the arctic aquarium.  And for those seeking the glory of the northern lights, Tromso is one of the best places to see them.

3. Trondheim

The third largest city in Norway serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. Trondheim has many faces – it’s known for culture, technology, students, food, and cycling! The city hosts year-round festivals like the St. Olav Festival – the largest cultural and church event in the country. It’s been called an “intimate big city,” which captures the modern and energetic atmosphere but also lets visitors know that history has not been forgotten.

Trondheim was the country’s capital during the Viking era and you can visit places like Sverresborg castle (12th century) and the Nidaros Cathedral – a pilgrimage site for almost 1000 years. Don’t forget the farmer’s market, the excellent restaurants, and the incredibly local breweries.

4. Jotunheimen National Park

As the Home Of The Giants, Jotunheimen is Norway’s leading national park. The park is located in the south centre of the country and covers several mountain ranges; include the 29 highest peaks in all of Norway.

There are hundreds of hiking routes that take you to fantastic glaciers, clear deep woodland lakes, and to panoramic valleys.  At least one of them will take you to Vettisfossen, the highest waterfall in Norway (275m). The park is always busy with adventure seeking fun-lovers and tour companies will put together some incredible packages that showcase the best of what this well-loved park has to offer.

5. Svalbard

Svalbard means “cold coasts” and this small group of islands is known as the home of the polar bear.  Located in the Arctic Ocean between Norway and the North Pole, this is the northernmost spot that is permanently inhabited. Untouched arctic wilderness combined with rare and unusual wildlife creates an environment that is rugged and fascinating to travellers.

The majority of people live (and visit) Longyearbyen, which is the largest settlement in the archipelago. It’s a tiny yet energetic town that has grown from a traditional village into a surprisingly modern place complete with festivals, exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural activities. For the adventurer, this is the place to see striking craggy mountains, untouched glaciers, polar bears, reindeer, caribou, whales, walruses, and more.

As one of Europe’s fastest growing cities, the atmosphere in Oslo is confident, modern, and relaxed. It’s a cosmopolitan destination with world-class restaurants, and art galleries, but still manages to make you feel like you’re in a much smaller town. Sitting just inside the “U-shaped” Oslofjord, Oslo is two-thirds forest and green space which make this the perfect spot for biking and hiking.

Olso is Norway’s capital and home, not just to the royal family, but to major cultural establishments like National Theatre and the National Museum of Art, the Nobel Peace Centre, The Munch Museum (Edvward Munch’s The Scream is housed in the permanent collection), and the Norwegian Opera and Ballet. A must-see is Folkemuseet, an interactive outdoor museum that features 150 historic buildings like the famous Stave Church.

7. Stavanger

This town is different from the majority in Norway because of the sandy beaches and warmer climate.  Stavanger is the preferred summer destination for travellers who want a taste of Scandinavia mixed with sand and surf. Because of its location in the southwest of the country, the harbour here is a major stopping point for tours and cruise ships.

You’ll want to see Rogaland Kunstmuseum which has a fantastic collection of Norwegian art, as well as the country’s best example of a medieval church, the Stavanger Cathedral.  In the Gamel Stavanger district you’ll slip back in time to explore 18th century Scandinavia at its best.

8. Lofoten Islands

It’s a bit unbelievable just how beautiful the Lofoten Islands are. Best known among those who prefer to go off the beaten trail and get personal with Mother Nature, this wonderful wilderness outpost highlights untouched landscapes of deep fjords, grand mountain ranges, unique colonies of seabirds, and exquisite beaches. Though it’s located at about the same latitude as Greenland, the climate in this archipelago is rather mild thanks to the Gulf Stream.

If you want a truly unforgettable experience in nature, Lofoten is your place.  You can kayak between the islands, surf, fish, scuba dive, go ocean rafting, hike, ski, and more. Don’t forget to check out some of the oldest Viking relics in the entire country.

Bergen is the second largest city after Oslo and is considered to be the gateway to the fjords. It’s an appealing mixture of living history as Bryggen, the 15th century waterfront, is a major modern port for Norway as well as a popular tourist destination. Here you’ll find small-town values and atmosphere as locals happily direct you to the best meal in town (in their opinion!).

There are seven mountains that surround the city which lead to lovely views no matter where you are. Enjoy the fish market at Hanseatic Wharf and after you explore the town, head out to explore the most breathtaking fjords in Norway..

10. The Western Fjords

It’s true that there are remarkable fjords all over Norway and all of them worth seeing.  But, the most famous and awe-inspiring are found in West Norway between Molde and Stavanger. The Western Fjords are home to both ancient and modern glaciers and deep sea drenched valleys that are marked by rocky terrain.

The two you don’t want to miss are Naeroyfjord and Geirangerfjord. Because of this beauty, this entire area is one of the most unique and sought-after destinations on the planet. And although you’ll go for the fjords, you’ll also fall in love with the sublime coast.  Travel around by ferry, where you’ll get the truly spectacular views, and enjoy trekking through forests and across glaciers.

Bodø offers a lively urban atmosphere and serves as the starting point to the true north of Norway – specifically the Lofoten Islands. You can tour the archipelago on a tourist speed boat, kayak at midnight when the sun is still out, or fish in the incredibly strong tidal currents of Saltstraumen.

The town itself, with the northern lights at your fingertips, has much to discover. Concerts in city park, shopping at charming boutique shops, cocktails on the quay with sea eagles soaring across the ocean, and the well-preserved trading post at Kjærringøy are all a part of this laid-back town. If you’re travelling in August, enjoy Nordland Musikkfestuke and Parkenfestivalen, Bodø’s two major music festivals.

12. Fredrikstad

Fredrikstad is a quaint town with significant historical roots. Though much of Norway is cold for much of the year, the warmth of the locals is so sincere, that you won’t feel the temperature as much!  Home to the most well-preserved fortress in all of Scandinavia, Fredrikstad dates back to the 16th century and has a ton of history to discover.

Old town is a popular and charming spot for tourists.  You can relax over a bottle of wine or an Italian coffee before heading out to the Fredrikstad Museum, or one of many art galleries or shops in the market. The nearby Hvaler Islands are, geographically speaking, the sunniest part in Norway.  In the summer, domestic tourists love this region for a relaxing getaway and to explore Ytre Hvaler National Park.

Perhaps the best Norwegian destination to view the northern lights, Alta has a ton of activates you’ll enjoy. For starters, try a snow mobile safari or dog sledding. The first ever observatory for the northern lights was built here at the end of the 19th century. Popular attractions include the UNESCO Word Heritage designated rock carvings of the Sami culture (dating to 4200 to 500 BC) and the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel (yes, all interiors and exterior are made of snow).

The climate is mild but because of its extreme north location, Alta has 24 hours of daylight from May to August each year and “blue season” is from November to January. Take in the Alta Fjord, coasts, and mountains while you enjoying biking, hiking, and fishing in this dazzling town.

Founded in 1644, Røros is an important mining town entirely made up of wooden buildings. It’s grown into a modern community even as it maintains its historical status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because it still has so much of its original character, it feels like you’re visiting a living museum.

Take a stroll through old courtyards and narrow streets where you’ll find craftsmen selling locally made clothing, ceramics, and delicious food. Named a Sustainable Destination in 2013, Røros is committed to reducing its tourism footprint and maintaining its history and quality experience for guests.

15. Helgeland

With so much natural beauty and top-quality outdoor adventure in Norway it’s no small feat that Helgeland stands out as distinctive in this area.  Explore countless white sand beaches on countless pristine islands when you visit the Vega archipelago, just off Helgoland’s coast. Island hop with a kayak or a bike through this UNESCO-protected area.

If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll have the chance to spot over 200 species in Lånan, including sea eagles and eider ducks. Each April locals help the ducks prepare the nesting site and after nesting season is over, they harvest the down in order to make their famous high-quality duvets. While there make a visit to Svartisen, the second largest glacier in the country and enjoy a long hike across the surface.

15 Best Places to Visit in Norway:

• Jotunheimen National Park
• Lofoten Islands
• The Western Fjords
• Fredrikstad

30 Best Places to Visit in Norway (Updated 2024)

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Home to the fjords, amazing landscapes, and the northern lights – there are certainly a lot of places to visit in Norway! Read this post now to learn more of Norway point of interest!

When it comes to exploring the breathtaking wonders of Norway, there is no shortage of incredible destinations to choose from. Whether you are a nature enthusiast craving to witness the awe-inspiring fjords or a history buff eager to delve into Norway’s rich cultural heritage, this Scandinavian gem has something for everyone.

So, if you’re thinking about embarking on a journey through this stunning Nordic nation, buckle up and get ready to be amazed! 

One of the best things about Norway is its diverse geographical landscape. From the dramatic coastline that stretches along the Atlantic Ocean to the mighty mountains that dominate its interior, Norway offers an array of landscapes that are nothing short of extraordinary. 

The coast of Norway is particularly renowned for its beauty and is often considered one of the best places to see in the country. The picturesque towns along the shoreline provide a unique charm and allow visitors to immerse themselves in Norwegian coastal culture. 

Among the best places to visit in Norway is Ålesund, a town on the country’s west coast. Renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and breathtaking views, Ålesund exudes charm at every corner. 

Stroll through its quaint streets with ornate buildings and intricate details, or take a hike up Mount Aksla for an unforgettable panoramic view of this coastal gem. Remember to savor some local seafood delicacies while enjoying one of Norway’s most beautiful towns. 

Moving further north on your Norwegian adventure brings you face-to-face with Fjordane – a region that boasts some of Norway’s most iconic fjords. These deep glacial valleys carved by ancient ice create an awe-inspiring natural spectacle that should undoubtedly be on your bucket list when visiting this Scandinavian nation. 

Take a cruise through Sognefjord, known as “The King of Fjords,” and marvel at its majestic beauty as snow-capped peaks tower above crystal-clear waters. Another must-visit destination in Norway is Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to the largest glacier in continental Europe . 

Strap on your hiking boots and explore this icy wonderland, with guided tours available for those eager to delve deep into its frozen expanse. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness the power and beauty of nature up close and personal. 

As you venture into the heart of Oslo , Norway’s vibrant capital city, visit the Kon-Tiki Museum. This fascinating museum showcases the extraordinary adventures of Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian explorer who sailed across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft named Kon-Tiki. 

Immerse yourself in Heyerdahl’s incredible journeys as you marvel at original artifacts from his expeditions. Visiting Vigeland Sculpture Park is a must to truly appreciate Norway’s artistic side. 

Located in Oslo, this park features over 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. These captivating sculptures depict various aspects of human life and emotions within beautifully landscaped gardens. 

Take your time wandering through this open-air gallery and allow each sculpture to evoke a unique story within your imagination. Norway offers an array of stunning landscapes and cultural treasures that will leave you breathless. 

Whether you embark on a Northern Norway road trip or explore every town in Southern Norway, there is no shortage of incredible places on this list that should find their way onto your travel itinerary. From immersing yourself in the beauty of fjords to discovering historical landmarks and embracing artistic wonders – Norway has it all for those seeking unforgettable experiences amidst some of the most beautiful places in the world. 

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Table of Contents

30 Best Places to Visit in Norway

Geirangerfjord.

Geirangerfjord is an absolute gem among the many beautiful places in Norway. Located in the western part of the country, this stunning fjord stretches for about 15 kilometers and is surrounded by majestic mountains that seem to touch the sky. 

Visiting Geirangerfjord should be a priority on any Norway itinerary, as it offers some of the most breathtaking views in the entire country. One of the best things about Geirangerfjord is its accessibility. 

You can easily reach it by car or bus from nearby towns such as Ålesund or Molde. As you drive along the winding roads towards Geiranger, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, vibrant green valleys, and cascading waterfalls that seem to appear around every corner. 

It’s truly a sight to behold. Once you arrive at Geirangerfjord, there are plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. 

The fjord is perfect for leisurely cruising or renting a kayak to explore its calm waters. The water’s views are mesmerizing, with steep cliffs rising from both sides and waterfalls falling into the fjord below. 

If you’re up for some adventure, one of the top places to visit in Geirangerfjord is Flydalsjuvet’s viewpoint. This popular spot offers stunning panoramic views over the fjord and surrounding mountains. 

It’s an ideal place for taking those Instagram-worthy shots that will make your friends back home envy your travels. Another must-visit attraction in Geirangerfjord is the Seven Sisters waterfall (De syv søstrene). 

It consists of seven separate streams cascading down from 250 meters into the fjord below. The legend says that each stream represents one sister who fell in love with seven troll brothers living across from them on the Lofoten Islands but could never be together. 

This powerful waterfall is awe-inspiring, and you can even get up close by taking a boat tour that will bring you right underneath the cascading waters. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, Geirangerfjord should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Norway. 

Its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and captivating waterfalls make it an unforgettable destination. So, make sure to include a visit to Geirangerfjord in your travel plans and get ready to be enchanted by one of the best-kept secrets of mainland Norway and the north. 

Lofoten Islands

Regarding the Lofoten Islands, you’re in for a real treat. Nestled in northern Norway, this archipelago is one of the best things you can experience while exploring the country. With its stunning landscapes and charming fishing villages, there’s no shortage of beauty. 

One of the best hikes you can undertake on the Lofoten Islands is Reinebringen. This trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. 

It’s a moderately challenging hike that rewards your efforts with awe-inspiring vistas that will leave you speechless. There are many beautiful places to visit in Lofoten, but one that stands out is Haukland Beach. 

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand, this beach rivals any tropical paradise. Stroll along the shoreline or dip your toes into the chilly Norwegian sea – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. 

If you’re embarking on a northern Norway road trip, include a stop at Nusfjord. This small and picturesque fishing village perfectly encapsulates the charm and tranquility of coastal Norway. 

Its colorful wooden houses huddled together to create a postcard-worthy scene that will make your heart skip a beat. While exploring Lofoten, don’t forget to visit the Arctic Cathedral located in nearby Tromsø. 

This iconic modernist structure is an architectural gem that showcases Norway’s contemporary design prowess. Its distinctive triangular shape and stunning glass façade make it one of the top places to visit for architecture enthusiasts or anyone looking for Instagrammable moments. 

Lofoten Islands should be on your travel itinerary if you’re planning a trip to Norway. From captivating hikes like Reinebringen to relaxing moments at Haukland Beach, this archipelago offers some of the most beautiful places in Norway. 

Whether on a northern Norway road trip or as part of a Norway in a Nutshell tour, the charms of Lofoten will surely captivate you. And while you’re in the area, visit the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø for a taste of modern Norwegian architecture at its finest. 

Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)

Located on the west coast of Norway, Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is undoubtedly one of the best things you can experience in this stunning country. This iconic natural wonder has gained popularity worldwide, and for good reason – its mesmerizing beauty attracts thousands of visitors yearly. 

Situated near Stavanger, Preikestolen offers one of the most breathtaking views from the top. The hike to reach this majestic rock formation is challenging but worth it. 

As you ascend along the trail, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the Lysefjord and surrounding mountains, bound to leave you in awe. What makes Preikestolen so special is its towering height and the sense of achievement and exhilaration that comes with reaching its summit. 

Standing atop this massive cliff, with nothing but clear skies above and vast fjords below, is an experience that will etch itself into your memory forever. If you plan a trip to Norway, including Preikestolen in your itinerary is necessary. 

You can embark on a Northern Norway road trip and stop at Stavanger to explore this incredible natural marvel. Depending on your fitness level, the hike takes around two hours each way, so come prepared with sturdy footwear and plenty of water. 

While visiting Stavanger and hiking Preikestolen may be your primary goal, remember to explore other nearby attractions. The city offers charming streets lined with quaint houses painted in vibrant colors. 

You’ll find several places to eat and drink where you can savor delicious Norwegian delicacies while enjoying stunning views. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines physical exertion with some of the best views of Norway, then a visit to Preikestolen should be high on your travel list. 

This iconic landmark provides magnificent scenery and promises a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring moments. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore this natural wonder and witness firsthand the beauty that makes Norway one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. 

Trolltunga is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in Norway to visit. This natural marvel, also known as the Troll’s Tongue, is a jutting rock formation that hangs 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. 

It offers visitors an unparalleled vantage point to witness the stunning Norwegian landscape. Located in Hordaland county, in the western part of Norway, Trolltunga has been gaining popularity among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. 

To embark on this incredible journey, planning your trip to Norway during the summer months is advisable when the weather conditions are more favorable for hiking. The hike to Trolltunga is challenging but immensely rewarding. 

Starting from Skjeggedal, near Odda, completing this adventure takes approximately 10-12 hours roundtrip. However, with proper preparation and determination, anyone with moderate fitness can conquer this trail. 

As you ascend towards Trolltunga, you’ll be captivated by the ever-changing scenery surrounding you. The trail meanders through lush green valleys adorned with colorful wildflowers during summer months or snow-covered landscapes during winter . 

The best part? Along this arduous hike, you’ll encounter several viewpoints that offer some of the best views in all of Norway. 

Upon reaching Trolltunga itself, prepare yourself for a truly awe-inspiring experience. Standing on its dramatic precipice provides an exhilarating sense of achievement and offers uninterrupted vistas of endless mountainscapes and sparkling clear waters below. 

It’s a moment that will make you appreciate why Norway is known as one of the most beautiful places on Earth. For those looking to extend their trip to Norway or explore other incredible places outside Trolltunga region, I would highly recommend visiting Bergen – a vibrant coastal city renowned for its historical charm and picturesque surroundings – or even heading further north towards Northern Norway, where you can witness nature’s greatest spectacle, the mesmerizing Northern Lights . 

The possibilities are endless, and each Norway destination has its distinctive appeal. So, if you’re considering a trip to Norway and seeking an adventure that will leave you with lifelong memories, Trolltunga should unquestionably be at the top of your travel guide. 

Norwegians are proud of their natural heritage, and once you’ve witnessed the majesty of Trolltunga firsthand, it’s easy to see why. Visit Norway this summer and immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring beauty that words alone cannot fully capture. 

Bergen, often referred to as the gateway to the fjords, is a city that has been on the list of must-visit places in Norway for a long time. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Norway, Bergen is surrounded by many beautiful sights and boasts a rich history. One of the highlights of Bergen is its charming waterfront area known as Bryggen. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site is lined with brightly colored wooden buildings that date back to the 14th century. Walking through this narrow alleyway transports you back in time and offers a glimpse into Bergen’s past as a thriving Hanseatic trading port. 

For those seeking panoramic views of Bergen and its surrounding landscapes, visiting Mount Fløyen is an absolute must. If you feel more adventurous, you can take a funicular ride up the mountain or a scenic hike. 

Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views from above, allowing you to admire the city’s picturesque harbor and surrounding mountains. Bergen is also known for its vibrant food scene. 

The city offers an array of culinary delights ranging from traditional Norwegian dishes to international cuisine . The historic fish market, Fisketorget, is where you can sample fresh seafood straight from the coast of Norway. 

For a truly authentic experience, try some traditional Norwegian delicacies like smoked salmon or rakfisk. If you visit Bergen during the summer, explore some of its nearby fjords. 

The Hardangerfjord, located just east of Bergen, offers stunning scenery with cascading waterfalls and steep cliffs plunging into deep blue waters. A boat trip through this fjord will leave you awe-inspired by nature’s grandeur. 

Bergen stands out among many of Norway’s best places due to its historical charm, breathtaking views from Mount Fløyen, diverse food scene offering local delicacies and international cuisine, and its proximity to stunning fjords. Whether exploring the colorful streets of Bryggen, indulging in delicious seafood at Fisketorget, or marveling at the natural beauty of nearby fjords, Bergen promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. 

Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether a history buff or an art enthusiast, Oslo has something for everyone. One of the must-visit places in Oslo is the iconic Viking Ship Museum. 

Here, you can marvel at remarkably preserved Viking longships excavated from burial mounds dating back to the 9th century. The museum provides an incredible insight into Norway’s seafaring past and is a window into the country’s fascinating history. 

For art lovers, only visiting Oslo would be complete with exploring the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. Spanning over 80 acres, this park showcases Gustav Vigeland’s magnificent sculptures depicting human figures in various poses and emotions. 

It’s not just an outdoor gallery but also a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Oslo’s numerous parks and green spaces. 

One such gem is Frogner Park, adjacent to Vigeland Sculpture Park. This expansive urban park features beautifully landscaped gardens with over 200 bronze and granite sculptures scattered throughout its grounds. 

It’s ideal for a picnic or a leisurely stroll on sunny days. To learn more about Norwegian culture and history, visit the National Gallery of Norway in Oslo city center. 

This museum houses an extensive collection of Norwegian artwork from the 19th century to contemporary pieces by famous artists such as Edvard Munch. Admire Munch’s iconic painting “The Scream,” among other masterpieces that will inspire you. 

In addition to its cultural treasures, Oslo offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, too! Take advantage of its proximity to stunning fjords by embarking on a fjord cruise departing from the city center during the summer when daylight extends well into the evening. 

Alternatively, you can venture into Nordmarka, a vast forested area north of the city, and enjoy hiking or biking along its pristine trails. Oslo is an enchanting destination that combines history, art, and natural beauty with modern urban life. 

Whether exploring its fascinating museums, strolling through its scenic parks, or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Oslo will surely captivate you. Plan your trip carefully to make the most of your time in this remarkable capital city and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Trondheim, located on the central coast of Norway, is a vibrant city that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Norway, this charming city should definitely be on your itinerary. As the third most populous city in Norway and the country’s former capital during the Viking Age, Trondheim has a rich historical background that can be explored through its well-preserved architecture. 

One of my favorite places in Trondheim is Nidaros Cathedral, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful medieval cathedrals in Europe . The intricate details of its Gothic architecture are truly awe-inspiring. 

Inside the cathedral lies the shrine of Saint Olav, an important figure in Norwegian history. A guided tour will provide you with fascinating insights into the architectural wonders and religious significance of this iconic landmark. 

For those seeking breathtaking views and nature experiences around Trondheim, a visit to Bymarka is highly recommended. Bymarka is a vast forest area just outside the city center, offering numerous trails for hiking or biking amidst serene surroundings. 

One popular trail leads to Gråkallen Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Trondheim and its stunning fjord landscape. During the summer months, pack a picnic and spend a day exploring this natural oasis. 

No trip to Trondheim would be complete without discovering its old wharf area called “Bakklandet.” This picturesque neighborhood features colorful wooden houses that line narrow streets filled with cozy cafes and boutique shops. Strolling along these cobblestone lanes feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern amenities such as artisanal bakeries serving delicious pastries and local coffee shops brewing aromatic cups. 

Trondheim also boasts an excellent museum scene, offering insights into Norway’s history and cultural heritage. The Ringve Museum is dedicated to musical instruments worldwide, with beautifully curated exhibits catering to music enthusiasts and history buffs. 

The museum is set in a stunning manor house surrounded by lush gardens, making it an ideal place to immerse yourself in the soothing melodies of the past. Trondheim is undeniably one of Norway’s most beautiful places, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. 

Whether you want to explore its architectural treasures, such as Nidaros Cathedral, enjoy outdoor adventures in Bymarka, wander through the colorful streets of Bakklandet, or dive into the musical heritage at Ringve Museum, this city will leave you with amazing travel experiences. So make sure to add Trondheim to your bucket list when planning your visit to Norway! 

Atlantic Ocean Road

Atlantic Ocean Road is often regarded as one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world, and it’s certainly a must-visit spot when exploring Norway. This stunning stretch of road is in western Norway, connecting several small islands and providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re planning a northern Norway road trip, include this iconic route! 

The Atlantic Ocean Road winds through picturesque landscapes and offers photographers and nature enthusiasts remarkable opportunities. As you drive along this route, you’ll marvel at the dramatic coastal cliffs, charming fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters that make up the scenery. 

It truly is one of the top places to visit in Norway. One of the highlights along the Atlantic Ocean Road is the village of Bud. 

This quaint fishing village offers a glimpse into traditional Norwegian coastal life with its colorful houses and bustling harbor. Stroll along the waterfront, interact with locals, and sample some fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. 

While summer months are popular for visiting this region due to milder weather conditions, don’t discount visiting during winter! The Atlantic Ocean Road takes on a new level of beauty when covered in snow or illuminated by the Northern Lights. 

Just imagine driving along this mesmerizing road while witnessing nature’s majestic dance across the sky – it’s an experience that will forever be etched in your memory. In addition to enjoying this amazing travel experience on wheels, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities nearby. 

The nearby Lofoten Islands offer some of the most breathtaking hikes in Norway with their towering mountains and stunning fjords. You could also visit Alesund, one of Norway’s most beautiful cities , or explore nearby fjords such as Geirangerfjord. 

No matter when you visit or which direction you approach from, driving along the Atlantic Ocean Road is an adventure that will leave you speechless. So take your time, soak in the beauty of the landscapes, and make unforgettable memories as you explore this remarkable Norwegian destination. 

Flåm Railway

Nestled in the heart of Norway, the Flåm Railway is a must-visit attraction for any traveler exploring this picturesque country. This iconic railway journey offers a unique perspective on Norway’s stunning landscapes and is often hailed as one of the most scenic train rides in the world. 

Whether you’re planning a road trip through Norway or looking for a memorable day trip, the Flåm Railway should definitely be on your list. Starting from the small town of Myrdal, located in northern Norway, this magnificent train journey winds through snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and lush green meadows. 

The Flåm Railway is known for its steep gradients and numerous hairpin bends that offer breathtaking views at every turn. As you embark on this adventure, be prepared to be captivated by the sheer beauty of nature surrounding you. 

The highlight of this amazing travel experience is undoubtedly the portion between Myrdal and Flåm itself. Here, the train descends nearly 900 meters throughout 20 kilometers, offering awe-inspiring views of cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and serene fjords. 

Make sure to bring your camera along to capture these unforgettable moments. Upon reaching Flåm, take some time to explore this charming fishing village on the banks of Aurlandsfjord. 

It’s one of Norway’s hidden gems, surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade or visit the Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism to learn more about Flåm’s fascinating history. 

If you have more time to spare, consider extending your stay in Flåm and embarking on further adventures in its picturesque surroundings. Take a boat trip along Nærøyfjord – another UNESCO World Heritage site – where you’ll witness nature at its most dramatic, with towering cliffs rising from emerald-green waters. 

Alternatively, venture into the nearby Aurlandsdalen Valley, Norway’s Grand Canyon, to experience the country’s mesmerizing wilderness. The best time to visit Norway and embark on this incredible train journey is during the summer months. 

You’ll be treated to long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and vibrant landscapes in full bloom from June to August . However, it’s worth noting that these months are also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. 

If you prefer a quieter trip with fewer tourists, consider visiting in May or September when the weather is still favorable but without the hustle and bustle of peak season. A trip to Norway is not complete without experiencing the Flåm Railway. 

This remarkable train journey offers a glimpse into Norway’s natural wonders and promises unforgettable memories. So hop on board, sit back, relax, and let this scenic railway take you on an extraordinary adventure through one of the most beautiful places in the world. 

Briksdal Glacier

Located in the beautiful region of Stryn in western Norway, Briksdal Glacier is a breathtaking natural wonder that should be noticed on your Norway trip. Nestled within Jostedalsbreen National Park, this glacier offers an amazing travel experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. 

To reach Briksdal Glacier, you must embark on a short but scenic hike from the parking area. The anticipation builds as you go through the picturesque landscape, surrounded by towering mountains and glistening lakes . 

The trail meanders through lush green forests, occasionally revealing stunning glimpses of the glacier peeking through the trees. As you approach closer to Briksdal Glacier, you’ll be greeted by a magnificent view that will leave you in awe. 

The glacier itself is a massive ice formation cascading down from the surrounding mountains into a serene turquoise lake below. The sight of this icy marvel against rugged cliffs is truly awe-inspiring. 

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to get closer to Briksdal Glacier, guided glacier walks are available where experienced guides equip you with crampons and lead you safely across its icy surface. Walking on pristine blue ice surrounded by towering peaks is an otherworldly experience that will surely leave an indelible mark on your Norway itinerary. 

After exploring Briksdal Glacier, take some time to visit the Norwegian village nearby, where you can indulge in traditional Norwegian cuisine at charming local cafes or restaurants . Treat yourself to mouthwatering seafood dishes or authentic Norwegian specialties like reindeer stew or traditional waffles with cloudberry jam. 

Briksdal Glacier is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in mainland Norway and offers one of the best experiences for nature lovers . Whether admiring its magnificent beauty from afar or embarking on an exhilarating glacier walk, this natural wonder will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. 

So, if you plan a trip to Norway this summer, include Briksdal Glacier in your itinerary. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed and will find yourself yearning to repeatedly go back to the north of Norway. 

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

Senja Island

Ah, Senja Island! Let me tell you, it’s truly a hidden gem nestled in the northern part of Norway. If you’re looking for untouched natural beauty and a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, Senja Island should definitely be on your radar. 

Picture this: jagged mountains rising from the sea, picturesque fishing villages dotting the coastline, and pristine beaches with crystal clear waters. It’s like something out of a fairytale . 

Senja Island is often referred to as “Norway’s second largest island,” but I think it deserves to be recognized as one of the best places in the world. When I visited Senja Island, I couldn’t help but fall in love with its dramatic landscapes. 

The towering peaks of Okshornan and Segla provide stunning hiking opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. I hiked up Segla, and let me tell you, the view from the top was absolutely breathtaking. 

It felt like standing on top of the world. But hiking is only part of what Senja Island has to offer. 

The island is also known for its charming fishing villages, such as Husøy and Skaland. These little havens are perfect for strolling along colorful wooden houses, visiting local fish markets, and immersing yourself in traditional Norwegian culture. 

One of my personal highlights was visiting Tungeneset Viewpoint. From there, you can admire panoramic views of steep cliffs plunging into the sea while watching whales swimming by. 

It’s truly a mesmerizing experience that reminds you why exploring remote places in Norway can be so rewarding. So, if you’re planning a trip to Norway and seeking a unique adventure off the beaten path, remember to include Senja Island in your travel itinerary. 

It may not be as famous as other places on this list, but trust me when I say it’s worth every moment spent exploring its many beautiful corners. After all, isn’t uncovering hidden gems and discovering lesser-known places in Norway what traveling is all about? 

Tromsø

Tromsø, often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is a vibrant city in northern Norway. It uniquely blends natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting adventures. Tromsø should definitely be on your list of must-visit places if you’re planning a trip to Norway. 

One of the best things about Tromsø is its stunning natural surroundings. The city is nestled between majestic mountains and surrounded by breathtaking fjords. 

This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adrenaline-pumping activities. Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Tromsø, and numerous trails cater to all experience levels. 

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, exploring the scenic trails around Tromsø will reward you with mesmerizing views and tranquility. In addition to its natural wonders, Tromsø also boasts an array of cultural attractions. 

The city has a rich history dates back centuries, evident in its architecture and museums. The iconic Arctic Cathedral is a must-see landmark with its distinctive triangular shape resembling an iceberg. 

Inside, you can enjoy beautiful concerts featuring renowned local musicians or simply marvel at the stunning stained-glass windows. If you visit during winter, Tromsø offers a spectacular phenomenon – the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis. 

This celestial light show illuminates the night sky with vibrant colors dancing across it, creating an otherworldly experience that will leave you in awe. Many tour operators provide guided trips into the wilderness surrounding Tromsø for optimal aurora viewing opportunities. 

Tromsø’s culinary scene is another aspect that sets it apart from other destinations in Norway. The city boasts several excellent restaurants serving traditional Norwegian cuisine and international flavors. 

Seafood lovers will find themselves in paradise as they savor fresh catches from the coast of Norway while enjoying picturesque waterfront views. Tromsø is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Norway. 

Its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. So whether you’re planning a winter adventure to witness the Northern Lights or looking to explore the stunning landscapes of mainland Norway, Tromsø should not be missed. 

Norway – it’s a country that boasts many beautiful places, and if you want to travel, many destinations in Norway should be on your list for a long time. One of these incredible places is the North Cape, located in northern Norway. 

Standing atop the North Cape cliffs is an experience like no other. The top views are breathtaking, with the vast expanse of the Arctic Ocean stretching out before you. 

To get to the North Cape, you could visit Honningsvåg, a charming fishing village and one of the best places to stay if you plan to explore this region. From there, it’s just a short drive or bus ride to reach the North Cape plateau. 

As you approach this iconic landmark, you’ll be awestruck by its beauty and grandeur. Once at the North Cape, soak in the incredible scenery and marvel at nature’s wonders. 

The cliffside plateau offers panoramic views of the Arctic Ocean and surrounding landscapes that will mesmerize you. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the summer solstice, witnessing the midnight sun from this northernmost point in mainland Norway is an unforgettable experience. 

Aside from enjoying the views from atop this magnificent cliff, there are several other attractions to explore in this area. Visit nearby Magerøya Island for more natural beauty and stunning landscapes. 

You can also explore Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve, where thousands of seabirds nest on steep cliffs – a true haven for bird lovers. Additionally, while in Honningsvåg or nearby towns like Hammerfest or Alta, take some time to immerse yourself in Sami culture – indigenous people who have inhabited northern Scandinavia for thousands of years. 

Learn about their traditions and way of life through cultural experiences such as reindeer sledding or visiting a Sami museum. If you’re looking for an amazing travel experience in Norway, the North Cape should definitely be on your list of places to visit. 

The views from the top are awe-inspiring, showcasing the beauty of mainland Norway and the North Atlantic Ocean. Combine this with a visit to nearby attractions, experiencing Sami culture, and exploring other natural wonders such as Magerøya Island – and you’ll have an unforgettable adventure in this breathtaking part of the world. 

Svalbard, a remote archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, is truly a hidden gem under Norway sovereignity. With its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, it is undoubtedly one of the best places to see in the country. 

If you’re an adventure enthusiast or simply curious about exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Svalbard should be at the top of your travel list. The main settlement in Svalbard is Longyearbyen, a small town that is the gateway to this extraordinary destination. 

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by vast expanses of pristine wilderness and jagged mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see. Svalbard offers incredible outdoor activities like hiking, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. 

Imagine gliding through untouched snowfields with a team of huskies leading your way – an experience that will surely leave you breathless. One of the top places to visit in Svalbard is Barentsburg, a Russian settlement that offers a fascinating glimpse into another culture amidst this remote Arctic landscape. 

Explore its colorful buildings adorned with Cyrillic signs and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. You can also visit Pyramiden, an abandoned Soviet mining town frozen in time with eerie remnants of Soviet-era life scattered around. 

One of the best things about Svalbard is its incredible wildlife encounters. Polar bears roam freely across these icy lands, and catching sight of these majestic creatures is truly awe-inspiring. 

However, it’s important to remember that encountering polar bears requires caution and respect for their natural habitat. Apart from polar bears, Svalbard is also home to various other arctic animals, such as reindeer, arctic foxes, walruses, and numerous bird species, including puffins. 

Exploring this pristine ecosystem will fill your soul with wonder and appreciation for nature’s beauty. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Arctic and experience a destination like no other, Svalbard is the answer. 

With its untouched wilderness, unique wildlife encounters, and rich cultural history, it offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you embark on a guided tour or venture out alone, Svalbard will enchant you with its raw beauty and leave you yearning for adventures in Norway’s Arctic paradise. 

Vøringsfossen Waterfall

Vøringsfossen Waterfall is undoubtedly one of Norway’s best natural wonders. This majestic waterfall is located in the Hardangervidda National Park, a vast mountain plateau with stunning views and unparalleled beauty. If you plan a trip to Norway, visiting Vøringsfossen should be on your itinerary. 

The waterfall itself is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. It cascades down a height of approximately 182 meters (597 feet), and the force of the water hitting the rocks creates a mesmerizing mist that envelops the surrounding area. 

The sound of the roaring water adds to the dramatic atmosphere, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors. To reach Vøringsfossen, you must take a short hike from the designated parking area. 

The trail meanders through lush green landscapes, offering glimpses of Norwegian flora and fauna. As you make your way closer to the waterfall, you’ll begin to feel its power as its thundering sound grows louder. 

Once you arrive at the observation deck overlooking Vøringsfossen, prepare to be blown away by its sheer size and grandeur. The cascading water creates a mesmerizing display as it crashes into the valley below. 

You can feel tiny in comparison to this breathtaking force of nature. In addition to admiring Vøringsfossen from afar, adventurous souls could also visit nearby trails that offer different viewpoints and perspectives of this natural wonder. 

Several hiking routes in Hardangervidda National Park allow you to get closer to Vøringsfossen or explore other scenic spots in this stunning region of Norway. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip through Norway or simply exploring mainland Norway and the north, visiting Vøringsfossen should be on your list of places to see. 

Its unmatched beauty will leave an indelible mark on your Norwegian adventure. So, take the chance to witness this amazing natural marvel and create lifelong memories in the land of fjords and waterfalls. 

Nærøyfjord

Nestled among the majestic fjords of Norway is the breathtaking Nærøyfjord. Considered one of the top places to visit in this wondrous country, it’s no wonder this UNESCO World Heritage Site finds its way onto many travelers’ bucket lists. 

The Nærøyfjord stretches over 17 kilometers and is surrounded by towering mountains that seem to touch the sky. As you embark on a boat tour through its crystal-clear waters, you’ll be immersed in nature’s beauty at every turn. 

The fjord is flanked by steep cliffs adorned with cascading waterfalls that create a symphony of sound as they plunge into the emerald waters below. One of the best ways to experience Nærøyfjord is by taking a scenic hike along its shores. 

As you traverse the well-marked trails, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views that will leave you breathless. The serenity and tranquility of this place are unparalleled, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, kayaking through Nærøyfjord is an adventure not to be missed. Paddling along its narrow passages will bring you up close and personal with nature’s wonders. 

Imagine gliding silently through pristine waters, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and wildlife in their natural habitat. To truly appreciate Nærøyfjord’s beauty, consider visiting during different seasons. 

Vibrant greenery blankets the surrounding hillsides in spring and summer as wildflowers bloom. Autumn brings a kaleidoscope of colors as the leaves change their hue, painting a picturesque landscape before winter. 

Whether you’re on a road trip through Norway or exploring this captivating country’s fjords, visiting Nærøyfjord will undoubtedly be one of your most amazing travel experiences. This hidden gem in northern Norway invites you to immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring grandeur, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. 

Hardangervidda National Park

Nestled in the heart of Norway, Hardangervidda National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that should be at the top of any adventurer’s travel list. Spanning over 3,422 square kilometers, it is one of the largest national parks in Europe and offers a diverse range of landscapes and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best things about Hardangervidda National Park is its accessibility. 

Situated just a few hours’ drive from Oslo, it makes for an ideal day trip or a perfect addition to any Northern Norway road trip. As you venture deeper into the park, you’ll be greeted by vast plateaus adorned with vibrant wildflowers during summer and transformed into a snow-covered wonderland during winter. 

For hikers in Norway, Hardangervidda National Park is paradise. With over 1,000 kilometers of marked trails crisscrossing through its rugged terrain, there are endless opportunities to embark on unforgettable hikes. 

Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer seeking a challenging trek or simply looking for a leisurely stroll amidst serene landscapes and picturesque fjords, this park has something to offer everyone. While exploring Hardangervidda National Park, visit some of its most iconic sights. 

The Hardangerjøkulen glacier is an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon stretching 73 square kilometers and offering breathtaking panoramic views. Additionally, Voringsfossen Waterfall is another must-see attraction within the park. 

Plunging from 182 meters, it is one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls. If you plan to extend your stay in this remarkable place to fully immerse yourself in its beauty and tranquility, plenty of accommodation options are available, ranging from cozy mountain cabins to charming hotels situated on the edge of picturesque fjords. 

Embrace nature by camping under starry skies, or treat yourself to luxury lodges that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Hardangervidda National Park is undeniably one of Norway’s best places to visit. 

Its accessibility, diverse landscapes, and abundant outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This park has everything from exhilarating hikes to jaw-dropping waterfalls and breathtaking vistas. 

Jotunheimen National Park

Jotunheimen National Park is a majestic and awe-inspiring destination located in mainland Norway. As one of the largest national parks in Europe, it offers abundant natural beauty and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. 

If you’re looking for places to visit in Norway that showcase its stunning landscapes, Jotunheimen National Park should definitely be on your list. One of the main attractions within the park is Galdhøpiggen, which stands proudly as the highest mountain peak in northern Europe at an impressive height of 2,469 meters. 

Hiking to the summit is a challenging but rewarding experience that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a casual hiker, tackling Galdhøpiggen is an adventure you won’t miss. 

Apart from its soaring peaks, Jotunheimen National Park is also home to numerous picturesque lakes and rivers. One such example is Lake Gjende, a glacial-fed lake that stretches over 20 kilometers in length. 

It’s surrounded by towering mountains and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and even camping along its shores. If you’re up for exploration, hiking along Besseggen Ridge will reward you with stunning vistas over Lake Gjende from dizzying heights. 

For those seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities, canyoning down Utladalen Gorge is something to be noticed. This rugged gorge boasts impressive waterfalls cascading down steep cliffsides and narrow gorges carved by ancient glaciers. 

Equipped with a wetsuit and helmet, you’ll navigate these natural obstacles by jumping into crystal-clear pools and rappelling down waterfalls – an exhilarating adventure that promises unforgettable memories. In addition to its natural wonders, Jotunheimen National Park also holds cultural significance for Norwegians. 

The park’s name translates to “Home of the Giants,” a nod to Norse mythology. Exploring the park allows you to immerse yourself in the rich folklore and history of the region. 

You can visit traditional mountain farms, known as “støls,” where locals still practice age-old farming traditions during summer. These farms offer a glimpse into Norwegian rural life and provide an opportunity to taste delicious homemade cheese and traditional dishes. 

Jotunheimen National Park truly encapsulates the essence of Norway – it’s a place where untouched wilderness meets ancient legends, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and delve into the country’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking challenging peaks or simply want to soak in the tranquility of stunning landscapes, Jotunheimen National Park is undoubtedly one of Norway’s best places to explore. 

Rondane National Park

Rondane National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Norway, waiting to be discovered by adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Known as the oldest national park in Norway, Rondane offers a breathtaking landscape characterized by towering peaks, deep valleys, and vast plateaus. 

This is the place to go if you’re looking for an authentic wilderness experience. Rondane National Park is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with its rugged terrain and untouched wilderness. 

The park features numerous hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, allowing visitors to explore its natural wonders at their own pace. One of the most popular hikes is the ascent to Rondslottet, the highest peak in the park. 

The trail takes you through lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and steep slopes until you reach the summit. The reward? 

A panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see. Aside from hiking opportunities, Rondane National Park also offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Watch for magnificent creatures like reindeer, elk, foxes, and even rare predators like lynx or wolverine. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the diverse avian species that call this park home. 

Cross-country skiing is a must-try activity for those seeking a unique experience in Rondane National Park during winter months. With its vast open spaces and well-maintained trails that wind through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes, it’s no wonder this park has become a favorite destination for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide. 

When hunger strikes after a day of exploring Rondane National Park’s natural wonders, there are plenty of cozy mountain lodges where you can refuel with hearty Norwegian cuisine. Warm with traditional dishes such as reindeer stew or fårikål (mutton stew), accompanied by freshly baked bread and locally sourced ingredients. 

Rondane National Park is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Norway for anyone seeking unspoiled wilderness and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or winter sports lover, this park has something to offer. 

Enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking views from the top of Rondslottet or explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Add Rondane National Park to your travel bucket list and experience a true Norwegian wilderness getaway. 

Oslofjord is a picturesque inlet in southern Norway, just a stone’s throw away from the capital city of Oslo. This stunning fjord stretches over 100 kilometers and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, charming coastal towns, and numerous islands. It offers abundant activities and attractions, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers. 

One of the best ways to explore Oslofjord is by taking a leisurely boat cruise. Hop aboard one of the many available tours that depart from Oslo or other nearby towns and enjoy the breathtaking views as you sail through the calm waters. 

Along the way, you’ll pass by charming fishing villages like Drøbak and Son, where you can stop to wander through narrow streets lined with colorful wooden houses or indulge in delicious seafood at local restaurants. Nature lovers will be delighted by the lush greenery and idyllic landscapes surrounding Oslofjord. 

Several islands, such as Hovedøya, Lindøya, and Gressholmen, are worth exploring. These islands offer beautiful hiking trails that provide some of the best views of the fjord. 

Pack a picnic lunch and spend a sunny day basking in nature’s tranquility while enjoying panoramic vistas. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Oscarsborg Fortress on Kaholmen Island is highly recommended. 

This historic fortress played a significant role during World War II when it defended Oslofjord against German naval forces. Explore its tunnels, visit its museum to learn about its fascinating past, and marvel at its strategic location overlooking the fjord. 

If you want more adventure around Norway’s capital city, consider kayaking or paddleboarding on Oslofjord’s calm waters. Paddle along the coastlines or venture into smaller inlets where wildlife thrives. 

Watch for seals popping their heads out of water or seabirds soaring above. It’s an experience that will make you feel truly connected to the natural beauty of Norway. 

Oslofjord is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Norway. With its stunning fjords, charming coastal towns, and numerous islands offering a variety of activities and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

From leisurely boat cruises to thrilling water sports and exploring historic fortresses to hiking along scenic trails, Oslofjord promises amazing travel experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, if you plan a trip to Norway, include Oslofjord on your itinerary to taste the country’s unmatched natural beauty and cultural heritage. 

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

Ålesund

Ålesund, located on the west coast of Norway, is probably one of the best places to visit if you plan a trip to this breathtaking country. I had always wanted to visit Ålesund, and it was definitely worth the wait. 

With its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and picturesque surroundings, it’s no wonder that Ålesund is considered one of Norway’s top places to visit. I arrived in Ålesund during the summer, generally considered the best time to visit Norway. 

The weather was mild, and the long days allowed me ample time to explore this charming fishing village. As I wandered through the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with intricate details, I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped into a fairytale. 

Every corner revealed new surprises, from quaint cafes serving freshly caught seafood to small boutiques displaying local handicrafts. One of my favorite things about Ålesund was its breathtaking views. 

The town is on several islands overlooking a stunning coastline, offering some of the best views of mainland Norway. To get an even better vantage point, I hiked up Aksla Mountain, where I was rewarded with panoramic vistas that took my breath away. 

It truly felt like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Overall, Ålesund is undeniably one of the 20 best places you could visit in Norway this summer or any other time. 

With its unique charm, beautiful architecture, and unforgettable scenery, it’s no wonder why it had been on my list for such a long time. My only regret is not having enough time there – I would love to go back and explore more of Southern Norway, including cities like Stavanger, and venture into Northern Norway, where even more wonders await those eager to discover them. 

When exploring the picturesque land of Norway, Fjordane is an absolute must-visit destination. Located on the western coast of Norway, this region is known for its breathtaking fjords that have captivated travelers worldwide. Fjordane should undoubtedly be part of your itinerary as you embark on your road trip through Norway. 

One of the most beautiful places to go in Fjordane is Geirangerfjord. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site offers awe-inspiring views, with towering mountains and cascading waterfalls that plunge into the crystal-clear waters below. 

To fully immerse yourself in the majesty of this place, consider taking a scenic cruise along the fjord. As you sail through the narrow passages surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a postcard-perfect scene. 

Continuing your exploration in Fjordane, a visit to Sognefjord is also highly recommended. Known as the “King of Fjords,” Sognefjord stretches over 200 kilometers and is one of Norway’s most popular attractions. 

The dramatic landscapes carved by glaciers over thousands of years make it a bucket list-worthy stop on any Norwegian adventure. Consider taking part in Norway in a Nutshell tour, which includes a breathtaking boat ride along Sognefjord, allowing you to truly absorb its immense beauty. 

In addition to its stunning fjords, Fjordane offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Jostedalsbreen National Park is home to Europe’s largest mainland glacier and presents an incredible spectacle with its icy mass spreading across miles of land. 

Exploring this pristine wilderness will provide an unforgettable experience and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. As you plan your trip to northern Norway, embarking on a road trip through this part of the country will allow you to witness its diverse beauty. 

Fjordane, with its many beautiful places and awe-inspiring landscapes, is undoubtedly a highlight that should be on everyone’s list for a long time. Whether you’re looking for stunning fjords, majestic mountains, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Fjordane is sure to provide you with the best experience Norway offers. 

Jostedalsbreen National Park

When experiencing Norway’s raw, untouched beauty, Jostedalsbreen National Park is an absolute must-visit. Nestled in the western part of mainland Norway and spanning over 1,310 square kilometers, this national park is home to the largest glacier in continental Europe — Jostedalsbreen Glacier. 

As you embark on your journey through Norway, make sure to include a visit to this remarkable natural wonder. The park offers a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. 

One of the best things about Jostedalsbreen National Park is its hiking opportunity. With numerous trails catering to different skill levels, there’s something for everyone. 

You’ll find it here whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging climb or a novice seeking a leisurely stroll amidst breathtaking scenery. If you need more time but still want to witness the awe-inspiring sight of Jostedalsbreen Glacier, visit Nigardsbreen. 

This outlet glacier is easily accessible and offers guided tours that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the icy giant. During summer, you can join an organized glacier hike where you’ll be equipped with crampons and guided safely across crevasses — an experience like no other. 

Apart from its glaciers, Jostedalsbreen National Park boasts stunning fjords and beautiful valleys worth exploring. The neighboring region also offers opportunities for exciting activities such as kayaking in crystal-clear fjord waters or river rafting along exhilarating rapids. 

You can drive or take public transportation to reach Jostedalsbreen National Park from Oslo or other parts of southern Norway. If driving is not an option for you during your trip to Norway, consider taking the “Norway in a Nutshell” tour, which includes train rides through picturesque landscapes followed by scenic ferry trips along the west coast of Norway. 

Regardless of how you choose to include Jostedalsbreen National Park in your Norway itinerary, be prepared to be mesmerized by the sheer grandeur of nature. This national park is undeniably one of the top places that showcases Norway’s unrivaled beauty, offering an experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. 

Kon-Tiki Museum

Nestled in the heart of Oslo, the Kon-Tiki Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure enthusiasts. Dedicated to the legendary explorer Thor Heyerdahl, this museum showcases his daring expeditions and sheds light on his incredible accomplishments. As you enter the museum, you are immediately transported to the world of exploration and discovery. 

The Kon-Tiki Museum pays homage to Heyerdahl’s most famous expedition – the journey across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft named Kon-Tiki. Through captivating exhibits, you can retrace Heyerdahl’s footsteps and witness firsthand his challenges while navigating treacherous waters for over 100 days. 

The museum’s highlight is undoubtedly seeing the original Kon-Tiki raft, marveling at its simplicity yet remarkable seaworthiness. But that’s not all – there’s more to explore inside! 

The museum also houses artifacts from other mesmerizing expeditions, including Ra II and Tigris. These vessels were used by Heyerdahl to prove his theories about ancient seafaring civilizations. 

You’ll find yourself immersed in stories of bravery and ingenuity as you examine genuine artifacts collected during these daring voyages. As you venture through each exhibit, you’ll also be captivated by stunning photographs that transport you far away from mainland Norway. 

The vivid images showcase remote islands, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking landscapes that will instantly make you want to hop on a plane. Whether it’s your first introduction to Heyerdahl or if you’re already familiar with his exploits, a visit to the Kon-Tiki Museum promises an amazing travel experience filled with inspiration and wonder. 

Moving forward in our journey along Norway’s west coast brings us to one of my favorite places – Ålesund! This picturesque coastal town is renowned for its enchanting Art Nouveau architecture and stunning fjord views that will awaken you. 

Situated on the northwest coast, Ålesund is an ideal starting point for a scenic Northern Norway road trip. The town’s unique charm stems from its remarkable history. 

In 1904, a devastating fire swept through Ålesund, leaving little more than ashes in its wake. However, instead of rebuilding in traditional styles, the town embraced the emerging Art Nouveau architectural movement. 

Today, walking through the streets of Ålesund feels like stepping into a fairytale with its ornate facades, intricate details, and whimsical motifs. Aside from its architectural wonders, Ålesund offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Embark on a thrilling hike up Mount Aksla and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands. Explore the nearby fjords by kayak or boat to fully appreciate the natural beauty that defines this coastal region. 

With its perfect blend of history and natural splendor, Ålesund has rightfully earned its place as one of Norway’s top places to visit. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable adventure along the mesmerizing West Coast – trust me, you won’t be disappointed! 

Vigeland Sculpture Park

Located in the heart of Oslo, Vigeland Sculpture Park is a true gem that offers a captivating experience for art enthusiasts and nature lovers. As you step into this expansive park, you are immediately greeted by a stunning display of over 200 bronze and granite sculptures created by the renowned Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. 

Each sculpture represents different stages of human life, conveying emotions and stories that leave visitors in awe. Walking through the park feels like entering a world where art seamlessly blends with nature. 

The sculptures are strategically placed along beautifully landscaped paths, surrounded by vibrant flowers and towering trees. The attention to detail in each piece is breathtaking; you can see the subtle expressions on the faces, the intricate folds in the clothing, and the graceful poses captured in stone. 

It’s easy to spend hours wandering through this open-air museum, immersing yourself in the profound beauty of Vigeland’s work. One of the highlights of visiting Vigeland Sculpture Park is undoubtedly reaching its centerpiece: The Monolith. 

Standing an impressive 14 meters high, this massive sculpture consists of intertwining human figures carved from a single granite block. The sheer scale and complexity of this masterpiece are truly awe-inspiring. 

As you stand at its base, gazing up at the intricate details etched into every figure, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder at how one artist was able to create such an extraordinary work. Beyond its artistic allure, Vigeland Sculpture Park offers a tranquil setting for relaxation or leisurely picnics amidst nature’s embrace. 

You could find a quiet spot under one of the many trees or sit by one of the small ponds scattered throughout the park while enjoying a coffee or tea from a nearby café. Visiting Vigeland Sculpture Park should be on everyone’s list when traveling to Norway. 

It not only showcases some of Norway’s finest artistic talent but also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the serene beauty of nature. So, whether you’re an art enthusiast searching for creative inspiration or simply a traveler seeking a peaceful retreat, Vigeland Sculpture Park will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on your journey through Norway. 

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

So, are you planning to visit Norway soon?

Norway is truly a country that offers an abundance of breathtaking beauty and unforgettable experiences. 

This Scandinavian gem has something for everyone, from the charming coastal town in southern Norway to the majestic landscapes found in the north of Norway. Whether you are an avid hiker looking to conquer some of the best hikes in Norway or a nature enthusiast seeking out the most beautiful places in Norway, this country has it all. 

One cannot miss witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, illuminating the night sky with their vibrant colors and mystical aura. The summer months also allow for exploring many beautiful places in Norway, as the days are long and filled with sunshine. 

From exploring vibrant cities like Oslo and Bergen to venturing into remote national parks like Jostedalsbreen National Park, there is no shortage of amazing travel experiences waiting to be discovered. Norway’s natural wonders will leave you speechless as you embark on unforgettable hikes through rugged mountains, stroll along picturesque fjords, and marvel at cascading waterfalls. 

Whether you want to travel solo or with loved ones, this country beckons you with its undeniable charm and serene landscapes. So pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and get ready to immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most stunning destinations – because Norway is gorgeous beyond words! 

If you are seeking a destination that combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage and warm-hearted locals, look no further than Norway. This land of fjords and mountains offers some of the best experiences one could ever hope for. 

Whether you want to go hiking under the midnight sun or visit charming towns tucked away amidst breathtaking scenery, visiting Norway will undoubtedly exceed your expectations and leave you yearning for more. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your trip today! 

Planning to visit Norway? Check these posts out!

• Norway Points of Interests:   Places to visit ,  Hiking spots ,  Beaches to chill ,  Camping spots ,  Small towns to visit ,  UNESCO sites ,  National parks to check out ,  Museums to visit , and  Castles to check out
• When is the best time to visit Norway?   Check out this detailed post!
• Oslo Points of Interests:   Things to do in Oslo ,  Museums to check out ,  Cafes to check out , and  Restaurants to try
• Norway Culture Overview:   Tipping culture ,  Interesting facts ,  Norwegian drinks to try ,  Norwegian food to try , and  Supermarkets to do groceries
• Places to visit in Norway:   Alta ,  Røros ,  Fredrikstad ,  Bodø ,  Westerdn Fjords ,  Bergen ,  Lofoten Islands ,  Stavanger ,  Svalbard ,  Trondheim ,  Helgeland ,  Åleslud , and  Tromsø

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Top 17 Best Places to Visit in Norway for a Unique Experience

May 22, 2023 by Silvia 7 Comments

Summer is just around the corner, which in Norway means the height of summer crowds. But whenever someone asks me if it’s worth visiting Norway during the high season I always tell them that of course it is! Norway is a big country, and really only a few of the most popular places in Norway get too crowded over the summer. The rest of the country is as magical as ever.

So I thought today I could share what I think are some of the best places to visit in Norway if you want to experience something a bit more unique than Pulpit Rock and Bergen . I wouldn’t say all of these places are totally hidden gems – in fact, a few are quite popular – but none of them are overhyped either, and they’re a great place to start if you’re feeling overwhelmed about what to see in Norway.

When I sat down to come up with this list for Norway places to visit, I simply thought about each of the places in Norway I’ve been that has filled my heart with such joy I thought it would burst.

So like, they’re pretty nice, I think.

And if you’re looking for more ways to get off the beaten path in Norway, I’ve also put together a huge list of unique things to do in Norway , which I keep adding to as local Norwegians give me more Norway tips.

And if you want more in depth Norway advice, I’ve also gathered all my best tips for planning an incredible trip through both Southern and Northern Norway in two 95-page ebooks that cover everything you’ll need to know to plan a Norway trip that you will love. You can purchase my Norway travel guides here .  

Tips for visiting these unique places

You definitely want to rent a car for many of these places as often tours won’t go to them either. I usually use Sixt because they tend to be the cheapest and most reliable, but you can also   check the rates at a bunch of different companies here.

Table of Contents

Lyngen Alps

The Lyngen Alps were my favorite getaway when I lived in Tromsø. The Lyngen Alps are so incredibly beautiful, and it is so quiet and peaceful there – I barely see anyone else on my hikes around Lyngen. If you’re looking for unique places to visit in Norway, Lyngen is a great place to start. 

Plus, the Lyngen Alps are less than two hours from Tromsø , so they’re quite easily accessible for somewhere that feels so remote. Read more about visiting Lyngen here .

Åna-Sira is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been in Norway, and not many people know about it. In fact, the only reason I ended up going was that my former manager offered to let me stay in his summer house there for a couple of nights.

And it immediately became one of my favorite places in Norway. You can read more about my time in Åna-Sira here , and just know that if you’re looking for a fairytale village in Norway, this is it. Oh and be sure to hike up Brufjell when you go!

There are plenty of unique places to stay around Åna-Sira, such as the Øvstefjellså farm .

Gamle Strynefjellsvegen

A 27-kilometer loop of road may not sound like anything special, but when I think of the places in Norway that have most taken my breath away, Gamle Styrnefjellsvegen is at the top of the list. The views here are  incredible . And since this route is a detour off the main road, it’s pretty quiet. I camped here with Alfie last summer and we had the whole mountainside to ourselves – in early August!

If you want to stay longer, Dalen Gaard camping  is a beautiful location. 

You can read more about driving down Gamle Strynefjellsvegen here .

Marmorslottet

If you want to see somewhere unique in Norway, head to Marmorslottet, or “the Marble Castle.” I’ve never seen anywhere quite like it!

It’s really close to Mo i Rana, which is on the train line (and also right by the Arctic Circle, if you want to see the monument there). You can read more about planning a trip to Marmorslottet here .

Hjørundfjord

I’ve shared my list of the most beautiful fjords in Norway here , and Hjørundfjord is at the very top of that list. It’s stunning and a bit less visited than Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord, so you’ll find some actually quiet nature escapes here.

I wrote about my  visit to Hjørundfjord here , including some amazing accommodation options. You could also stay at Norway’s historic  Hotel Union Øye  on Norangsfjord, which is an arm of Hjørundfjord. I wrote about my experience  staying at the Hotel Union Øye here .

Hardangervidda

I might be biased because I live on the edge of Hardangervidda, but I honestly can’t think of a better place in Norway to go on a multi-day hiking trip. And I mean, if anyone asks me what to see in Norway my first answer is the mountains, of course! Hardangervidda is Europe’s greatest mountain plateau with one of the biggest populations of wild reindeer. The views are incredible, and because it’s a plateau the hiking isn’t too intense.

You can either drive up over Hardangervidda, or you could take the ferry to Mogen and start your hike from there.  You can read about the ferry into Hardangervidda here .

Svalbard is a Norwegian group of islands far north of mainland Norway – up by the North Pole. I’ve only visited  Svalbard in winter , but I definitely want to return in the summer, when you have the chance to see polar bears, narwhals, and walruses. And flights to Svalbard are surprisingly affordable! 

Sørøya is Norway’s fourth largest island. I actually got the idea to visit from my doctor, who said she’s always wanted to see Sørøya but had never made it there. 

Alfie and I got the express boat from Hammerfest to Akkarfjord on Sørøya, which only took half an hour. You can  check the time table and prices here . And wow, we had the most incredible time here. 10/10 recommend! 

Read my itinerary including Sørøya here . 

Helgeland coast

One of my Norwegian friends once told me that the friendliest people in all of Norway are on the Helgeland coast (Helgelandskysten), and I think she may be right! But you shouldn’t just go for the friendly locals, but also the incredible views.

It’s the perfect place for a summer road trip (especially if you want to escape the summer crowds!), or you could even cycle down the route. Read more about driving down the Helgeland coast here .

I still can’t believe I hadn’t heard more about Mosjøen before visiting – it really is one of the loveliest towns in Northern Norway. If you take a trip down the Helgeland coast, definitely consider a detour inland to spend a night or two in Mosjøen. You can read more about Mosjøen, including things to do there and where to stay, here .

I hesitated to include Grimstad because I’m not sure it has the same appeal to foreign tourists as it does to Norwegians, but it’s one of my favorite places in Norway so I can’t leave it out. Grimstad is right on the coast in the far south of Norway, and it’s the ultimate cute summer seaside town, where you can buy fresh shrimp and fish cakes and go for boat rides to the many tiny islands dotting the coast. Also be sure to check out the lovely Cafe Ibsen downtown. 

Norwegians love this area in the summer, but I think sometimes foreigners can find it a bit boring because there are no fjords or mountains here. But it’s definitely an important part of Norwegian summer culture!

For accommodation in Grimstad, the Ibsen Guesthouse looks truly incredible (I really want to stay here next time I visit Grimstad), or if you’re on a smaller budget the Holsthuset Losji would be perfect. 

I’m always telling people to go to Rjukan, whether they’re looking for a day trip from Oslo or an interesting place to stop on their way from Oslo to Bergen. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with a fascinating World War II history, and it’s also home to one of the most beautiful mountains in Norway: Gaustatoppen.

I’ve included Rjukan in one of my one week Norway itineraries , and you can read my complete guide to visiting Rjukan here .

Jotunheimen National Park

Or really, just go hiking in any national park in Norway. But I chose Jotunheimen because it has Norway’s two tallest peaks and over 250 mountains reaching nearly 2000 meters. Most mountains in Norway aren’t actually that high, so hiking in Jotunheimen makes for quite a unique experience in Norway.

If you don’t have much time, an excellent way to see some of the park is to stay at the  Leirvassbu Fjellstue which is actually in the park. This mountain lodge is right by Leirvatnet lake at 1400 meters high and serves as a base camp for all sorts of hikes in the area. I stayed here with Alfie and we had a great time! 

I’ve included Jotunheimen in my epic road trip itinerary from Bergen here . 

If you’ve read a few of my Norway articles you probably saw this one coming.

I really love Ålesund, and it makes for the perfect base to explore some of Norway’s most stunning nature. Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen are both close by, along with many beautiful places to go hiking. Plus the city itself is probably the most beautiful in Norway. Read my full guide to visiting Ålesund and the surrounding areas here .

Okay, Lofoten is definitely not off the beaten path in Norway. But I just had to include it on this list because when I think of the places that have emotionally moved me in Norway Lofoten is one of the top! Plus if you take the time to explore a bit I think you can have a really unique experience here. You could also head up to Vesterålen to see some less visited islands!

Read my guide to planning a Lofoten road trip here .

Vardø is the quirkiest town at the very tip top of Norway. Driving into Vardø always feels like a surprise, because even though I’ve visited several times now I never expect to see such a vibrant, happening place in the far far north of Norway. 

I’ve written more about Vardø in my Northern Norway itinerary here . 

Arctic Norway has some surprisingly tropical looking beaches, and I think the most beautiful beaches of all might be on Sommarøy, which is just a short drive outside of Tromsø. Even on a cloudy day the water surrounding Sommarøy is such a beautiful turquoise color that you might even be tempted to take a dip! Read more about Sommarøy here .

On Sommarøy I’ve stayed at the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel, which also happens to be dog friendly (I brought Alfie with me!). We stayed in one of the standard dog-friendly rooms, but the three-bedroom houses right on the water also look incredible. The hotel has a sauna complete with a walkway right into the sea so you can take some icy dips, and there is also a jacuzzi to rent. The restaurant is also fantastic, with beautiful views out over the water. Check current rates and availability here

Do you have any other suggestions? Share in the comments!

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August 9, 2018 at 2:51 pm

I was going to mention Vesterålen as a tip, but then you mentioned it! I watched some Norwegian slow TV of people hiking in Vesterålen two weeks ago, and it looked gorgeous AND apparently it gets better weather because Lofoten usually catches away the rain in the region! The other place I would mention is Senja, just north of Lofoten and home to some gorgeous blue sea and beaches and mountains as well, judging by one of my friends’ holiday pics. And again, less touristy than Lofoten!

This year, though, I’ll stick to Rjukan. Only 8 days to go!

Typo alert: my not > might not; experience > experiences

PS: that ‘Nordkapp’ picture is hilarious!

Shannon says

August 9, 2018 at 5:11 pm

I would also recommend Senja, it’s so unspoiled and peaceful. I went about a month ago and completely fell in love! There’s some great hiking there and you can check out the largest troll statue in the world!

Amanda says

August 11, 2018 at 5:47 am

Norway has so many lovely little gems! I’m already itching for another trip there.

One place I’d definitely add to this list is Senja. It’s just north of Lofoten, but much less discovered (and maybe even prettier because of that!). And Grip Island (near Holden Arboretum) is also a quirky little spot to visit.

Charlotte says

August 11, 2018 at 9:13 am

As a Dutch tourist I can say that Grimstad definitely is worth visiting! I had a wonderful day in that cute village, great lunch, did lots of sightseeing and even had a walk in the wood nearby. Perfect lazy day <3

Also Merdø island before the coast of Arendal is worth visiting.

Rumah Sakit says

October 24, 2018 at 8:08 am

I’m looking to go to Norway sometime soon.

You got an interesting and lengthy write up there.

Bookmarked, and will be back for more travel juice 🙂

Lara Garrett says

August 5, 2019 at 10:32 am

Superb place & superb idea. Brilliant thinking. Nice place to pass some leisure period with the cutey pet. Such a nice thinking. Thanks a lot for your time here. Keep up the great job.

travelbuddieslifestyle.com says

July 23, 2022 at 5:49 pm

Hi Silvia, we just came across your blog and read some of your articles about Norway. They are really amazing. We will definitely use all your insider tips for planning our trip to Norway next years. Thanks for sharing all this

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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The Best Places in Norway – 13 Beautiful locations that will take your breath away!

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I think we can all agree that Norway is home to some incredibly beautiful destinations. Whether they are cities or villages, mountainous areas or farmland, there are so many beautiful places to visit in Norway.

Naturally, I have my own opinions when it comes to the best places in Norway, but at the same time; I haven’t been everywhere. That’s why I decided to call out for some help from some fellow travel bloggers who have all been to Norway!

They have all sent me their photos and opinions on what are the best places to visit in Norway, and so I hope this post can be a great guide for anyone wondering where to go in Norway.

Side note : if you want a post more specifically aimed at the Norwegian fjords, here is my guide to the best fjords in Norway !

Some of these destinations are absolutely breathtaking, and I believe they should all be on your bucket list. Out of all the places in Norway you should visit, these are some of the most breathtaking destinations. So, whether you are currently planning an upcoming trip to Norway, or just want to spend some time dreaming away to this beautiful country, I know you’ll like this post.

Read my complete travel guide to Norway here

This post has been published in Norwegian here .

Table of Contents

The 13 best places to visit in Norway, according to travellers who have been there

What makes me extra excited about this post is that every single one of these bloggers are avid travellers who love to explore and find new places. Having grown up in Norway myself, it is often difficult to see the country from a visitor’s side, and I tend to take many of Norway’s beautiful places for granted. That’s why I truly believe that this post shares the absolute best places to visit in Norway!

Read this next : My step-by-step guide to planning the perfect Norway vacation !

So, without further ado, I give you some of the most stunning destinations in Norway to add to your bucket list!

The Best Places in Norway

Please bear in mind that the list is numbered, but that does not mean that these Norwegian destinations are ranked. They are listed at random, and each are unique in their own way. All together, they make up the ultimate list of the best places in Norway! 

Did you know that I have written an eBook about Norway? It’s a travel guide to Aurland, Flåm and the fjord where I grew up, and I wrote it to help you plan your perfect trip to the area I call home! Find out more here!

Located in the northern part of Norway, Tromsø is tucked in a maze of stunning fjords that create a unique scenery. Its favorable geographic position (close to the Arctic Circle) make it one of the most preferred spots for Aurora Borealis viewers. It is possible to watch the Aurora even walking the streets of Tromsø (if there’s a strong Aurora), while for better Light displays it’s preferable to go out of the town on a tour to avoid light pollution.

In addition to this, the Sami culture is still very present in the Lapland region and you can witness some of their traditions while exploring a reindeer farm, or even join a dog sledding activity . Eventually, the seals from the Polaria Center will try to befriend you for a piece of bread.

Many other fishermen villages are spread throughout the fjords around Tromsø (i.e Kvaløya Island). Their little red wooden houses create a colorful scenery, having the serrated line of the mountains as a dramatic backdrop. It is very possible to drive the car and suddenly see a reindeer walking down the road – yes, this is something very normal for Lapland!

— Iuliana from Authentic Travels

Popular Tours in Tromsø:

You didn’t think I’d publish a list of the best places in Norway and not include my own hometown? The village where I grew up is one of the most beautiful places in Norway (in my humble opinion), and I love telling people about it and showing photos from home when I’m out travelling.

Aurland is a village located just a 10-minute drive from the better-known Flåm, where you can find the famous Flåm Railway. What most people don’t know is that Aurland is actually the name of the municipality of the whole area, and that technically, the village of Flåm is located in Aurland. What I love most about growing up here is that there are so many great things to do in Aurland , in addition to several sustainable experiences!

Visiting Aurland will allow you to get close to the beautiful Sognefjord, yet away from the hustle of Flåm, where it can get quite busy in the summer. From Aurland you can also jump on a fjord cruise to Gudvangen, which will take you through the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Nærøyfjord.

If you are hoping to see Aurland and the Nærøyfjord, and are flying into Oslo or Bergen, my Norway itineraries will help you plan your trip!

— Myself, Lisa from Fjords and Beaches

#3 The Nærøyfjord

It would be a crime not to visit the Nærøyfjord when in Norway. There, I said it. UNESCO has listed it as a World Heritage Site for a reason.

As an arm of the Sognefjord , Norway’s longest and deepest fjord , the Nærøyfjord is the wildest and narrowest fjord in Norway. The Nærøyfjord cruise takes you through striking cliffs, forest-clad steep mountainsides, never-ending cascading waterfalls, marine wildlife, and quaint fjord villages. The fjord is bordered by towering cliffs on both the sides making the passage utterly narrow that you can even reach out the waterfalls.

There are many ways to experience this lovely fjord viz. cruise, boat tours, and kayak tours. Kayaking is hands-down best way to explore the Nærøyfjord. I’d recommend taking a fjord safari tour if you are traveling with kids. Most of the tours depart from the Flåm and Gudvangen harbors. Hit one of the well-marked hiking trails to enjoy the exquisite fjord views from the mountaintop lookout points.

The dramatic and beautiful Nærøyfjord settings inspired the kingdom of Arendelle in the movie Frozen . The Nærøyfjord is sure to take your breath away no matter what time of the year.

Here’s how you can experience the Nærøyfjord by booking the Norway in a Nutshell tour on your own!

— Anjali from Travel Melodies

#4 The Atlantic Road

Unlike other parts of Norway, part of the “Wow” factor of the Atlantic Road is that it’s man-made.  This unique road is just 8 kilometres long but hugs the Norwegian coast in a series of stunning bridges. 

The Atlantic Road has National Tourist Route status and connects Averøy with the mainland over 8 bridges, which spans across a series of islands and islets. 

In spring and summer the road is calm with wild flowers flanking the verges but come the winter it is a different place completely.  When buffeted by a storm from the northwest it is wild with waves and foam breaking over the road.

The road extends beyond this small stretch and joins Kristiansund with Bud and Molde, a journey with nature and stunning scenery around every corner.  Take your time and stop at the well maintained parking and viewing spots.  Even though they are busy it is possible to escape and find your own corner and landscape.  

— Suzanne from Meandering Wild

#5 Trolltunga

Fancy sitting at the tip of a large rock formation with your feet dangling 700m above a crystal blue fjord? That’s Trolltunga, one of the most famous hikes in Norway !

Trolltunga, which means Troll’s Tongue in Norwegian, was my ultimate Norwegian adventure. I went just before the hiking season kicked up which meant there was a lot of snow still on the ground that made the hike all the more challenging.

Hiking Trolltunga pushed my body to the limits and gave me a black toenail for about a year afterwards! Gross, I know, but I called it my battle scar and was for a while a weird souvenir that reminded me daily of one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way!

The 23km round trip hike starts by taking you up a rather steep  hill before leading you up and over a mountain where you meet with the rim of an enclosed lake called Ringedalsvatnet. This magical spot here is just a taster of what’s to come later. It just gets better and better!

Following its edge around to the far end, your final destination is a massive rock formation hovering over above the fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountain. Be sure to allow a couple of hours here to enjoy the view over a packed lunch.

But don’t leave without this once in a lifetime photo opportunity. Put on a brave face and head out to sit or even star jump on the tongue itself!

Depending on the time of year, the hike will vary in difficulty. In May, thick snow will still be on the ground making the hike much more challenging and slower. The upside, of course, is there are significantly fewer hikers around. But don’t worry, the trail is well marked just look out for large red T’s painted on boulders along the way. For the best conditions, aim for late August-September.

The hike will take 9 – 11 hours depending onconditions and your fitness level so it’s advised you start the climb no laterthan 10am. Want to know more? Don’t miss my ultimate guide to Hiking Trolltunga.

— Michele from the Intrepid Guide

#6 Kjeragbolten

Kjeragbolten is a very unique and stunning place in Norway. People are always amazed when I show them pictures of me standing on top of the rock 1000 metres above Lysefjorden. It was one of the scariest experiences in my life to stand there, but it felt amazing! (However, if you are unsure or are very scared of heights you shouldn’t risk your life and comfort for a photo.)

The hike to the rock itself is beautiful, so I would highly recommend it. You will walk through a very diverse Norwegian landscape, and you will see waterfalls, meadows, snow and streams along the way. The water quality in Norway is great, so we had no issue refilling our water bottles from the streams. The 12 km round trip hike should take you about 7 hours and it can easily become your favourite, thanks to the stunning views you will get along the way.

— Eniko from Travel Hacker Girl

#7 Kvalvika, Lofoten

Kvalvika Beach is a beautiful beach on the Lofoten Islands in Norway , only accessible by foot or boat. This sandy beach is flanked by towering dark granite cliffs and overlooks the Norwegian Sea.

The hike to the beach takes approximately two hours and can be done in a loop, including a climb up the mountain Ryten. It is certainly worth the effort to get to Kvalvika Beach on any trip to the Lofoten Islands. Your efforts are rewarded with magnificent views and the opportunity for a dip in the sea!

Kvalvika Beach is a beautiful beach on the Lofoten Islands in Norway, only accessible by foot or boat. This sandy beach is flanked by towering dark granite cliffs and overlooks the Norwegian Sea. The hike to the beach takes under two hours. It is certainly worth the effort to get to Kvalvika Beach on any trip to the Lofoten Islands . Your efforts are rewarded with magnificent views and the opportunity for a dip in the sea!

To extend this hike continue on and climb the mountain peak, Ryten. The route up from the beach is strenuous but the views back down are breathtaking. This hike has all the ingredients of a perfect Lofoten hike: beautiful views across the mountains and fjords, a gorgeous white sandy beach, and a ‘mini Trolltunga’, an outcrop of rock for those perfect Instagram pictures! The entire loop walk takes approximately five hours. Kvalvika Beach is a popular camping spot and many come for an unspoilt view of the midnight sun over the sea during the summer months.

— Nicky from Go Live Young

Planning your own trip to Lofoten? Here are some of my self-drive itineraries!

The small beach, behind The Radisson Blu Hotel, Fornebu, Oslo has a serene and magical feeling to it. As I walked down the narrow pathway, between trees, to reach the sandy area I was amazed at the most crystal-clear waters I ever saw. The reflection of the white clouds upon the water looked like something from a postcard. The beach was empty, but I could watch ferries go by in the distance. All I could hear was the gentle movement of the still water and chirping of birds. I laid on the beach and lost all track of time in such a peaceful and relaxed state. One of the best moments of my life.

I would recommend Fornebu to people who are interested in a relaxing, laid back place….with not too many people around but so much beautiful nature. Fornebu has a small selection of bars and restaurants  and of course the huge Telenor arena which is a famous venue for music events and performances with the capacity for 23,000 people. Fornebu is only 20 minutes away by bus to Oslo city centre where you will find more shops, bars, restaurants, museums and attractions.

— Kelly from Travelling Mama

If you are heading to Trolltunga, Odda is a lovely little town that you will no doubt pass through, if self-driving from Bergen. Located in the Southeastern Hordaland county of Norway and like many of the towns and cities in Norway, Odda has beautiful mountain vistas and waterfalls that leave every visitor in awe and I am sure the locals wonder just how lucky they are to have amazing backdrops to wake up to every morning.

We had the pleasure of waking up so such delights as our camping spot was just on the shores of Sandvinvatnet. Sandvinvatnet, a beautiful lake just east of Buerdalen valley and Buarbreen glacier. This means amazing waterfalls around the town and also along the roadsides resulting awe-inspiring journeys as you explore surrounding areas. If you are a lover of photography there is plenty to be captured. If you are a lover of adventure and the great outdoors this is a playground for all ages!

You can camp, bring a camper van or RV and set them right in front of mother nature’s amazing paintings. This is definitely a town not to be missed in Norway.

— Bianca from It’s All Bee

Bergen is the second largest city of Norway and the best gateway to explore Norway’s fjords . It was founded over 3 centuries ago and played an important role in the Hanseatic League. The old harbor of Bryggen dates to that time and is Bergen’s biggest attraction. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Norway’s oldest fort Bergenhus is also part of this inscription. Bergen has a small city center with plenty of museums, restaurants and other sights. From north to south or west to east is just half an hour by foot. You’ll for sure pass the fish market where, if you want, you can have a taste of whale. If you plan a visit to Norway, make sure to add Bergen to your itinerary.

Plan 3 days or even more if you want to go out of the city and hike one of the many easily accessible hiking trails. Bergen is best visited during late spring, summer, and early autumn as in winter daylight is short.

Head this way to read my complete guide to what to do in Bergen .

— Chris from Chris Travel Blog

#11 Hamnøy, Lofoten

The Lofoten Islands are a spectacular part of Norway. When the summer sunshine glistens on the clear, blue waters, you’ll wonder if you’re still in Norway or the Caribbean. White sand beaches cap coves tucked away between the fishing villages that dot these Norwegian islands. 

One of the most beautiful fishing villages in Norway and the oldest of the Lofoten Islands is Hamnøy. Red, yellow and green wooden fishing houses sit on stilts along the shore of the rocky outcrop of an island. It’s a place straight off a postcard and worth visiting when you’re in the Lofoten Islands. 

— Jennifer & Tim from Luxe Adventure Traveler

#12 Preikestolen

Setting off around 2am, we began the trek to the top of Pulpit Rock. This hike in the south of Norway offers beautiful views across Lysefjord, and we decided to start in the middle of the night to catch the sunrise at the summit.

The track is well-graded, mostly stone steps, but it can get muddy and slippery in bad weather so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. It’s only 6km, but after a gradual ascent to begin, the track then heads straight up. 

Sweaty, with our chests heaving as we slugged one foot in front of the next, we finally approached the summit, where the huge rock – Preikestolen – juts out over the fjord. Exhausted, we huddled together to keep warm as we watched the orange light rise above the hills, bathing the entire fjord in a magical glow.

The sky was clear. We overheard a nearby tour guide tell his group that, of the hundreds of times he had hiked this path, only twice had he seen both the sun and the moon in the sky at the same time. We smiled to ourselves – beyond grateful for our experience.

— Abbi from Spin the Windrose

Head this way to read my ultimate guide to the Pulpit Rock hike!

Want more? Preikestolen is on the list of top things to do in the Stavanger area!

#13 Geiranger

Geiranger is one of the most beautiful places on earth! I don’t say it easy, but as soon as I saw Geiranger, I realized that never seen anything like it. In summer, most of the fjord is green, with snow on the mountain tops. And all this has enormous proportions, a passing cruise ship looks tiny next to the nature.

In summer, it is very easy to organize a trip around one of the most beautiful places of Norway.  Geiranger, Trollstigen and Alesund  are all within one area, all within a few hours reach. But my recommendation would be – plan your stay in Geiranger!

— Alexander from Engineer on Tour

There you have some of the best places in Norway, as told by travel bloggers who have all been there. Have you visited some of these Norwegian destinations? Or did you add any to your list? Let me know in the comments below, and please share this post with your friends if you enjoyed it!

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[…] The fjords are amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Norway. If you want to know where else to go, do check out this list of the best places in Norway. […]

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[…] sure to spend some time in Flåm before taking the boat back. It is one of the nicest places in Norway and it just makes no sense to travel so long and miss the sights. It took us two hours to walk on […]

[…] The Best Places in Norway (Fjords and Beaches) […]

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Planning a trip to Norway? in this Norway travel blog, you will find the best places in Norway that you must visit!

15 most beautiful places in Norway

A journey in the land of the fjords  .

Norway has small and magical villages, breathtaking nature, big and vibrant cities.

Norway offers travelers so many amazing places that it is sometimes difficult to know which places are not to be missed.

Just for that, I prepared a guide to the best places to visit in Norway that you don't want to miss when visiting the wonderful country, the land of the fjords, Norway.

Before you discover the most beautiful places in Norway, check out my other blogs to help you plan the perfect trip to Norway.

• How to plan a road trip in Norway?
• 2-week Norway Itinerary
• 7 Best multi-day hikes in Norway
• Best things to do in Bergen

Norway belongs to the Scandinavian countries in Northern Europe and is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries.

Norway stretches over 385 km, most of which are covered by glacial mountains and rare northern life such as polar bears and orca whales.

Norway's nickname "Land of the Midnight Sun" was given to it because the northern part of the country lies north of the Arctic Circle and in the summer, the sun does not shine, there are countless beautiful sites and points of interest in the country, but here is the most beautiful spot in Norway.

15 amazing places to visit in Norway:

1/ trolltunga.

Is it true that you have always wanted to stand alone on a rock ledge, which hangs between heaven and earth, to look at fjords and glaciers and admire the power of nature? If you climb to Trolltunga in Norway - you can do it!

Trolltunga is one of the most amazing hikes in Norway. Located at an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level, you will see sublime and spectacular views along the entire trail, and not just to the endpoint! You will pass several deep blue fjords, and dramatic mountains that make this demanding hike worth it.

While it will take you a few hours of quite challenging walking to reach this shelf, which stands out from a cliff like some kind of troll's tongue, the higher you go, the more and more amazing views you will be exposed to.

And when you arrive, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular spectacles in the country, the stunning views: from an observation point located at an altitude of 700 meters above the Ringedalsvatnet fjord, with the Folgefonna Glacier in the background.

Read more: Trolltunga overnight Hike

2/ Aurlandsfjord

The Aurlandsfjord is considered one of the most picturesque and dramatic fjords in the world.

The fjord is located in the Fjordane district between Flam and the Beitelen Mountains and flows through the local authorities of Vik, Aurland, and Lærdal and near the villages of Flam, Aurlandsvangen, and Undredal.

This fjord covers 29 km and is part of the Sognefjord, the longest fjord in Norway.

Aurlandsfjord is narrow and deep. It reaches an average depth of 962 meters and a maximum width of 2 km.

Most of the fjord is surrounded by steep mountains that rise to a maximum height of 1800 meters.

This is why most of the fjord is uninhabited except in the few small valleys around it.

Another town along the fjord that has gained fame is Undredal thanks to the fine cheeses produced there.

3/ Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands Archipelago While the many fjords cut through Norwegian soil, the Lofoten Archipelago lies in the northern part of the country as a kind of sandbar.

Among the many mountains and peaks rising towards the Arctic sky, you will find traditional villages full of local fishermen and artists.

In the Lofoten Islands, you can go hiking, skiing, kayaking, fishing, rafting, diving, and they are considered one of the best places in Norway for surfing.

Along with the many sporting activities you can also enjoy the amazing scenery and watch natural phenomena like the Northern Lights and midnight sun, along with other attractions like museums, attending a Viking feast, and more.

4/ Bergen - most beautiful city in Norway

What made Bergen a world-famous tourist city is its charm and unique atmosphere, which every visitor to Norway must experience for themselves.

Bergen is a major port city in southern Norway and the second-largest city in the country. It sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by mountains and breathtaking nature.

Bergen's geographical proximity to the fjord area established it as the southern gateway to the land of the fjords and as an important tourist base in the country.

Bergen is one of the rainiest cities in the world, with about 235 rainy days a year!

In Bergen, you will find countless excellent sites and attractions. The traditional fish market, where you will find super fresh and delicious food and fish and ancient and magical wooden houses of German lumber merchants who came to Norway in ancient times.

Mount Fløyen - the highest mountain that can be reached by cable car for an impressive view of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the Old City

Bergen is without a doubt a must-see place in Norway.

Read more: The best things to do in Bergen

Alesund is a beautiful town in the county of Sonmara in western Norway and is characterized by Art Nouveau architecture and the most spectacular views.

The town is located in a special area between islands that stretch towards the Atlantic Ocean and is known for the unusual architectural style used to build the townhouses after the fire that destroyed it in 1904.

Today, the town is a cultural center of the area and hosts numerous festivals including theater festivals, Norwegian literature New, Norwegian food, and music and art. ‍

In addition, the town offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, hiking, skiing, fishing, and more that make it one of the most visited destinations in Norway.

6/ Briksdal Glacier

One of the best-known sites in Norway is the Briksdal Glacier, which rises to a height of 1,200 meters and ends in the fertile Briksdalen Valley in the Sogn og Fjordane region.

The spectacular view of the glacier attracts hundreds of thousands of hikers every year, who make their way to it on a three-kilometer hiking trail (it is also possible to reach by special vehicles, which reach the destination).

Briksdal is one of the branches of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in Europe, and part of the national park of this glacier.

It is forbidden to climb parts of the glacier due to the danger of collapse, since, as part of the warming phenomenon that is prevalent throughout the world, this glacier is also slowly melting.

7/ Senja Island

Senja Island and the center of ​​Tromso is a place not to be missed.

In Senja island you can do Kayaking and hiking in the midnight sun, skiing, dog sledding under the Northern Lights or just relaxing on the terrace in the cabin while looking at the most spectacular scenery northern Norway has to offer, these are just some of the experiences you can soak up in the many mountain islands and blue fjords From all sides.

The beautiful island of Senja is the second largest island in Norway and is located far above the Arctic Circle.

The whole area is blessed with an amazing combination of sea, mountains, beaches, fishing villages, and arid areas, all a few hour's drive from each other.

The ocean waves crashing onto the island encounter sculpted rock walls and the sheltered bays of the colorful fishing villages.

The landscape in Senja is full of contrasts. Here you will experience the midnight sun and the Northern Lights, depending on the season.

In summer, you are welcome to choose from many hiking trails while walking in one of the best fishing areas in the world.

Another option is to paddle a kayak or other boat between hundreds of islands in the area, some with sandy beaches, rare birds, and breathtaking views of the steep mountain peaks.

8/ Geirangerfjord - The most famous fjord in the world

This fjord is without a doubt the icing on the cake when it comes to natural landscapes in Norway.

This is a real gem, nestled in the area of ​​the fjord land of Norway which may be one of the most beautiful places you will get to see in your entire life.

It is also one of the most visited sites in all of Norway, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

The fjord itself is surrounded by mountain peaks, steep cliffs, and impressive waterfalls, and stretches over more than 100 km into the mainland from the western village of Alesund.

Geiranger Fjord boasts 800-meter-high cliffs and waterfalls including the Seven Sisters Falls, the Courtyard Falls, and other waterfalls. One of the highlights of a visit to this fjord is the spectacular view from the Eagle Road (Ørneveien) a short route which as mentioned leads to a spectacular vantage point.

On the sides of the fjord, you will find a number of abandoned and special farms, and a number of special villages, the most famous of which is a village with the same name as the fjord, with a population of only 250 inhabitants.

9/ the Troll Road

Troll Road is the best known and most visited place in all of Norway.

The drive from the Geirangerfjord to the Fjords Road is a magical ride on some of the most beautiful landscapes Norway has to offer (you can stop on the way for short and long walks).

At the end of the road, you reach the top of the trolls. Observation with a short hiking trail overlooking the winding road that descends down from the mountains.

There is a small cafe and a souvenir shop full of tourists. Despite the congestion in the place, you do not want to miss this observation.

10/ The Pulpit rock

Pulpit Rock is a cliff that rises to about 600 meters.

The trail to this rock requires more than two hours of walking, but the amazing view makes many visitors and hikers reach it daily.

You can hike independently or join a Guided Hike from Stavanger.

At the end of the hike, you will enjoy a breathtaking view that is unmatched anywhere else.

11/ Nusfjord - one of the fishing villages preserved in Lofoten

When I planned my trip to Norway at home, there were a lot of places that ended in the word fjord. But when I visited there, Nusfjord was something special.

You could say that all Lofoten is made up of fishing villages but Nusfjord is special.

It is very pastoral.

This is one of the most preserved fishing villages in the area and it looks like a painting. It also serves as an open-air museum and some of the cabins here are for rent.

Alongside the dried fish, another hallmark of the area is the huts, which in the local language are called Rorbu.

Rorbu is a traditional fishermen's cabin that has converted into tourist accommodation in recent years.

In Stryn you can go on a glacier, ski in the summer and enjoy sandy beaches - all in one day. Stryn is located along the innermost part of Norway.

This area in Norway is known for its spectacular surroundings that include blue glaciers, towering mountains, fertile valleys, and deep lakes.

Stryn has a selection of nature activities throughout the year.

Adventurous tourists from all over the world come to the Briksdal Glacier which is located between thunderous waterfalls and high peaks. This glacier is a spur of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier and falls from a height of 1200 meters into the Briksdalen Valley.

Loen is a base for various challenging activities and includes Mount Skåla which is 1848 meters above sea level and the Via Ferrata Loen climbing trail.

Mount Skåla is located in the Jostedalsbreen National Park and is a tourist symbol thanks to the views from it and thanks to the stone tower at its summit.

On the slopes of the mountain is the Lodalen Valley which is known for its history and wild nature.

13/ Åndalsnes - the mountain capital

Andelsense is much more than just another small western Norwegian town that currently houses about 4,000 people.

The town is nestled between fjords and mountains in the heart of the Romsdal Valley and is the administrative center of Rauma County. Because the town is surrounded by mountains that are 1800 meters above sea level, it is affectionately known as "the alpine village near the fjord".

The most spectacular peaks around are Trolltindene, Vengetindene, and Romsdalshorn.

You are expected to views that are considered spectacular of their kind in all of Norway which include the clear Rauma River, lookout points like Rampestreken, lush waterfalls, steep mountains, and magnificent bridges like the famous Kylling Bridge, the bridge over Slettafossen waterfall, and more.

14/ Heddal Stave Church

Heddal Stave Church is the largest church in Norway.

It is located northwest of the city of Notre Dame, 45-minute drive west of Oslo, and has three main halls that proudly rise to the sky.

The church, made entirely of wood, was built in the 13th century AD; According to local legend, it was built within three days by five local farmers.

The church was renovated in the 19th and 20th centuries, and today it is still used for weddings and Sunday Masses during the summer months.

15/ The Atlantic Ocean Road

It is one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world, which is also an extraordinary architectural creation of a road that winds its way between the sea and the land and passes between wild landscapes.

The length of the Atlantic Road is eight kilometers and it stretches between the cities of Kristiansand and Moleda, which belong to the area of Møre og Romsdal.

The Atlantic Road connects small towns and islands, using seven bridges.

The famous bridge is Storseisundet, where there is a particularly dramatic curve.

The lucky ones among the hikers on the Atlantic Road will get to see whales and seals in the seawater. Along the road, there are four stopping points for a panoramic view of the landscape, which combines the beauty of nature with the architectural sophistication that characterizes the Atlantic Road.

Some people choose to walk here during the autumn season, which is characterized by storms, which make traveling on the road a unique experience, even if dangerous.

Final thoughts: Endless beauty and nature

There are very few places in the world where the landscapes are simply not tired and Norway is without a doubt at the top of this list.

Even after long days of hiking and countless photos you have taken, you will still stop at any lookout point to admire fjords, glaciers, waterfalls, and mirror lakes scattered throughout the country.

If you are a nature lover, you must come to Norway at least once in your life and if you come you are likely to come back here again.

If you have already come here, visit the Lofoten Islands which are in my opinion, one of the unique places in Norway.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about Norway is the unimaginable amount of spectacular natural spots.

Alongside familiar and touristy places like Flam, Troll Road, and Geiranger Fjord, there are countless fjords, lakes, scenic trails, lookouts, and equally beautiful and impressive hiking trails. In general, Norway has some extremely touristy places (mainly because crowds of tourists come every day who do day trips as part of cruises) and other places, no less beautiful, that you will be there almost alone.

We drove for example in 3-4 impressive roads no less than the Troll's road, but the branding does its thing and most tourists will only reach the famous road.

The abundance and amount of spectacular scenery in Norway is something you probably won’t find anywhere else in Europe (and in very few other places in the world).

Thanks for reading my blog about the most beautiful places in Norway!

My travel resources.

Here are some websites I use whenever preparing for my next journey anywhere around the world.

• Book affordable flights on Skyscanner , a great website that show the best routes and flight deals to your destination.
• Find a budget-friendly deal on all sorts of accommodation types on Booking.com .
• Buy the most flexible and budget-friendly travel insurance at SafteyWing .
• Check the best tours in Norway to maximize your trip.

Read My Other Blogs:

5 day barcelona itinerary: the perfect guide

2 weeks norway road trip itinerary

How to plan the ultimate norway road trip

15 most amazing places in Norway

3 Day Madrid Itinerary

how to spend weekend in Amsterdam

2 weeks in sicily: the perfect sicily road trip

how to spend 3 days in prague

scotland road trip Itinerary for 14 days

2 days in bergen norway

Annapurna Circuit Solo: The Detailed Itinerary

The complete guide to solo travel in nepal

3 Days In Kathmandu: The Ultimate Kathmandu Itinerary

12 best reasons to visit nepal

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Visiting Norway in Summer – 18 Must-Visit Places & Bunch of Things to Do (!)

Going to Norway at any time of the year is always so exciting. But visiting Norway in summer provides more opportunities to get into the depths of nature and explore some of the most beautiful places. 

Before setting off on a journey to this gorgeous country, it is smart to prepare financially, but also to organize a lot of things and answer the main question of where to go in Norway from June to August since this is when the country truly comes alive with lush striking landscapes, extended daylight hours, and abundance of outdoor activities waiting to be explored.

Thus to make it easier, here is a list of Norway’s best places where to go, based on my own experience. They are a good starting point for people who have never been to Norway before and for others who are returning to the country and want to see its best locations.

Visiting Norway in Summer & Not Sure Where to Start?

Here Are 5 Top Places for a Norway Summer Trip:

• Lofoten Islands – some of the most beautiful landscapes in Norway with fishing villages & glacier-carved mountains sticking out of the sea
• Bergen – a must-visit city and its area, a truly Norwegian landscape
• Flåm – small but popular Norwegian village nested within fjords. There is a scenic train here.
• Tromso – the largest city behind the polar circle and is best destination for the northern lights. But it is very popular in summer as well
• Svalbard – the most unique Norwegian island at the North of the Artic Circle where you can see polar bears!
• Nordkapp – Have you ever wanted to see “World’s Edge”? That’s the place!
• For more places and inspiration, scroll below!

5 Top Awesome Things to Do in Norway in Summer:

• Hike at Midnight! – with extra long daylight hours, summer is a perfect time to see the fjords, beaches, and go sea fishing at night when there is a day actually!
• Take a Cruise Between the Fjords – this is one of the must-do things in Norway in summer! Easy, affordable, and gorgeous tours are a route along the Mostraumen strait , from Alesund to Geirangerfjord , and a full-day cruise to Nærøyfjorden, Flåm & Stegastein .
• Walk on the Largest Glacier in Europe – and that is the Jostedalsbreen glacier near the town of Sogndal. It stretches for 60 kilometers in length and has around 50 glacial arms. Here is the resource to plan this trip.
• Go on a Road Trip! – yes, Norway has very good public transportation which allows getting places easily, but this country was made for road trips. Start with these awesome road trips in Norway’s south and then see what’s there in the north .
• Ride the Scenic Flam Railway – it is one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world with breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and fjords.

5 Top Places Where to Stay in Norway From June to August:

• Unstad Arctic Resort – a magical gem in Lofoten for the ultimate experience
• Håkøyveien 151, Tromsø – one of the top vacation homes in Tromso at reasonable prices
• Walaker Hotel – a beautiful old Bed & Breakfast hotel within fjords for a perfect retreat
• A Delicate Cottage – a modern vacation home for Winter and Summer times
• Britannia Hotel – a classic and the best 5-star hotel with modern comfort in Trondheim Area

Do you want to see as much as possible? Then rent a car in Tromso, Bergen, or Narvik and maximize your time!

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase or booking by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

What Is Summer in Norway Like

Summer in Norway is truly one of the best seasons to travel. However, keep in mind that Norway is a fairly large country with a very long rugged coastline, plateaus, and mountain ranges. Each region has its own unique factors that determine the weather conditions.

Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the climatic zones and your specific destination when visiting Norway from June to August.

Overall, summer is characterized by cool days when 20°C above zero is already the height of the summer heat. Even though the air temperature stays low throughout the entire season, the sun shines brightly all summer long. July in Norway is the warmest month when the temperature reaches its peak and swimming is possible in shallow water.

When planning your travel, note that central regions of Norway are warmer than southern and western regions by the coast, which are usually cooler a few degrees due to constant winds.

Mountainous areas during the day see the temperature between +9°C and +13°C. In the Arctic in summer, the air temperature does not rise above -5°C.

In Tromso, the light period lasts from May 17 to June 25, in Finnmark from the beginning of June to the end of July, and in Svalbard from April 20 to August 26. At night in summer, the air cools down to +6+10°C in almost any region.

My favorite part about traveling to Norway in summer is the length of the day. Thanks to short nights (especially in June and July), it is possible to squeeze more in a day and cover longer distances. Another advantage is the constancy of weather conditions because they are pretty stable throughout the entire season.

How to Visit All Norway’s Summer Destinations

The fastest and most convenient way to travel around Norway and see all the beautiful places in less time is by car. Gas prices are higher these days than before but having a rented vehicle will still cost less than paying for the train and bus together, particularly if you are traveling with two or more people. 

The best company where to rent a car in Norway is DiscoverCars . We rent through them every time and compared to all other aggregators, not only do they offer some of the best prices and a big variety of cars, but also different benefits included in the price. 

An alternative to a car (for budget travelers) is a train, bus, or hitchhiking option. Hitchhiking is a safe way to get places, although, in many remote areas, it takes a lot of time to meet someone who is ready to give a ride.  

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Norway in Summer

And now, let’s talk about the best places to visit in Norway in summer that should be on the list for any visit!

Nærøyfjord in Western Norway

I want to start my list with Nærøyfjord because it is an exceptionally beautiful place that you absolutely must see when traveling to the Flam area in summer.  

We visited it by accident while trying to find a secluded place for a picnic. On our way from Bergen to Aurlandsfjord, we decided to take a random turn in Gudvangen towards Tuftefossen. There, we got so blown away by the beauty of this place.

Only later we learned that it was Nærøyfjord, the smallest and narrowest fjord in the world , listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On the banks of the fjord, you can find a tiny village with farmers’ houses and a few tables to have a picnic at. The entire area around the village and along the fjord is so photogenic with the cleanest air and amazing scenery. 

To best way to get here is from Bergen to Flam or vice versa. In the summer season besides a car, you can hop on a ferry from Bergen to Gudvangen. Also, some cruises that depart from Flam go this way too. 

Geiranger Fjord Not Far From Alesund 

Chance are you’ve already heard about Geiranger fjord since it is one of the most touristic and famous places in Norway.

Every season more than 100 cruise ships come to the Geiranger village even though there are only a few hundred people who live there.

It is impossible not to get excited after seeing all the grandness of this fjord with your own eyes. The fjord is rather small with a length of about 20 km but the landscape is absolutely magnificent.

The most convenient way to visit is on the way from Bergen to Alesund. The road goes right by the fjord, so it is easy to stop and walk around. 

If you get more time and crave some activities, there are options to fish, go kayaking, or rafting . In summer, you can also horse ride and even go skiing.

I recommend spending some time in the area since besides the fjord there are numerous waterfalls to see. For the best view of the fjord go to the mountain Dalsnibba. You can get there by car or better rent a bike in the village and go all the way up the road to the viewpoint. It is such an unbelievable experience!! 

Voringfossen Waterfall

The Hardangerfjord, the fourth longest fjord in the world, offers so many sights and natural wonders. If you decide to come and spend time only in this part of Norway in summer, you’ll have plenty of things to see and experience during one long trip.

Among all the breathtaking places in the area, the famous waterfall deserves special attention. It is located in the county of Hordaland and its height is 182 m.

The flowing waters reach the river Bjoreio, which flows between forests. There is a viewing platform nearby, from which you can clearly see the waterfall and often a rainbow.

On one of our  road trips from Bergen to Hardangerfjord , we almost missed this waterfall, although the parking and viewpoint were right by the highway. If you are going to drive this road, make sure to add a checkmark on your map and see this waterfall with your own eyes. It looks like computer animation. Such a surreal place! 

North Cape (or Nordkapp)

If you want to get to the edge of the world (literally,) and witness how the sun doesn’t set at all then you need to travel to the Northernmost point of Norway (and Europe) called North Cape.

You’ll be surprised to see how well-developed the infrastructure is, how easy it is to get here, and how magnificent the local landscapes are.

Every tour guide in Norway considers it his duty to acquaint visitors with this magnificent place.

Located on the Magero peninsula, Cape Nordkapp is a large ledge of granite rock, completely covered with cracks. There is a convenient viewing platform from where you can contemplate a majestic view of the Barents Sea. For the overnight stay, look into the nearby Skarsvag town and check Airbnb. 

North Cape is definitely an interesting destination for any season but the easiest way to get there is in the summer.

If North Cape is the edge of the world, then what is beyond that? Svalbard, of course!

A unique northern Island partially split with Russia, and where it is “illegal to die” (the ground is too frozen for burial services).

But besides that, this Norwegian Archipelago allows you to do so much. For example, this is one of the best places on Earth to watch white bears in their natural environment. And so many other creatures like humpback whales, minke whales, belugas, arctic foxes, walruses, etc.

Add to that glacier hikes, kayaking, dog sledding, and many other activities.

Svalbard is far, cold (for example, in June the temperature fluctuates between -2 and +2 Celcius during the day), and expensive but it is a “different planet” and a unique experience with polar days for months (99 days in total imagine that)!

In winter, it is incredibly cold and you can’t do much due to the polar night (which lasts 89 days) but summer is just that season when to go!

Viking Ship Museum 

I know, going to a museum is not only a summer activity. You can visit it at any season. But if you love history or when traveling to Norway with kids, the Viking Ship Museum is one of the most interesting museums to visit in Oslo . 

On the Bygdoy peninsula, in the building from the 20th century, you can find real ships of Vikings.

Scientific studies show that all of them were built in the 9th century but stayed on the clay bottom for 1000 years. And only at the end of the 19th century they were discovered in the waters of Oslo and raised from the seabed.

All objects from ships also make up part of the museum collection. Today, anyone can see old wooden sleds and carts, dishes, household belongings, and tissue fragments. 

Stegastein Lookout in Flam Area

In Norway, the process of admiring nature is a serious matter. And no wonder why. With so much beauty around it becomes part of a routine.

In many spots around the country, you can find viewing platforms that look like pieces of art. The view from each of them is simply mind-blowing. 

The Stegastein Lookout is made with laminated wood and steel and is located at an altitude of 650 meters above sea level and protrudes 30 meters out of a cliff.

From the top, there is a view of the Aurland Fjord. The site is located on the Bjorgavegen road connecting the cities of Laerdalsoyri and Aurlandsvangen.

If you have a car and visit Norway in summer, make a quick detour and head to the lookout. Oh, how dramatic the fjord views are! The town of Aurlandsvangen is very cute too, it is worth spending a little bit of time and walking on a boardwalk along the water. 

Flam Railway (Flamsbana)

When you are visiting Bergen , you need to see Flam Valley. The best way to do that is to take a scenic train .

The twenty-kilometer Flam’s railway, part of the Bergen Mainline, was built 65 years ago and operates to this day. But today it is mainly used for tourism purposes.

During the entire ride, you’ll be glued to the window since the landscape outside reminds you of a fairytale. The railway route goes through the picturesque Flam Valley, teeming with steep mountains, tunnels, and waterfalls.

The main part of the path passes under a slope of five and a half degrees. The entire ride lasts around one hour. 

The starting point is in Flam and the final one is Myrdal. From Myrdal, you can go on a gorgeous hike and/or grab a snack at the Rallaren cafe . 

Preikestolen in the Southern Part of Norway 

Hiking Preikestolen  in Southern Norway is definitely once in a lifetime experience. If you don’t know yet, let me tell ya. Preikestolen is a giant stone cliff, from where you get to see a Lisefjord, translated as “Pulpit Rock”.

It is one of the most famous places in Norway and definitely should be visited from late spring to early autumn when the weather is nice and pleasant.

The easiest way to get here is from the city of Stavanger , where you can catch a ferry to Tau. From Tau in the summer season, there are organized buses to the beginning of the trail where you start the ascent. You’ll need to walk 4 kilometers, but the view at the end is worth your effort.

The place is very popular, so keep in mind you won’t be alone. On average, about 1,000 people climb this rock every day. Usually, the climb takes 1.5-2 hours.

Another way to see the rock is from the cruise ship as well as a car ferry.

Jostedalsbreen Glacier 

One of the largest European glaciers covers an area of four hundred eighty-seven square kilometers and has about fifty independent glaciers diverging from it. The glacier is so huge that it covers the territory of several municipalities. Wow.

Summer is the only season when you can get close and see the unbelievable grandeur of the glacier and the amazing wildlife around it. 

Since 1991, Jostedalsbreen has been a part of the national park and today shares the same name. It is located between Bergen and Alesund and is easily accessible. The glacier accumulates snow due to abundant snowfalls each year. The best time to visit this part of Norway is in summer. 

Trolltunga 

A horizontal cliff jutting out of the mountain has been a point of interest for many thrill-seekers over the years. It rises at an altitude of 350 m above the level of Ringedalsvatnet Lake. I am sure you have already seen lots of photos on the Internet with people sitting or standing on the edge of this rock formation. It does look like a person is on the edge of the world. 

This place deserves the title of the most spectacular cliffs in Norway . More than that, Trolltunga is on the list of the most beautiful places in the world. 

It does look awe-inspiring from the distance but to conquer the rock you must have a lot of strength and physical stamina.

The most convenient way to get to the city of Odda and start the hike is from Bergen. Then expect a challenging ascent. 

Most people spend from 4 to 9 hours climbing to the top. The timing depends on the type of weather and physical readiness. That’s why it is highly advisable to pay a visit to this part of Norway in summer.

On the top expect to spend at least a few hours, so do not forget to pack food and water.

The most difficult part of the journey is the ascent along the funicular, which has not been operating for 10 years. There is an alternative way, but then the ascent time will increase.

Visiting the Trolltunga top is more suitable for those who enjoy challenging hikes. The total distance is 12 km.

Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall 

One of the most visited waterfalls in Norway is located in the west of the country, near the town of Norheimsund. This is also one of the most photographed places in the country which makes a great stop on the way from Bergen to Ulvik  or Odda. 

The 20 m water stream is part of the Fosselva River. A unique feature of this landmark is a narrow path in the form of a bridge that passes right under the rapidly falling water from the hill. Walking on it brings so much joy.

Mysterious, and somewhere even a fabulous atmosphere is created by searchlights illuminating the falling water.

The surroundings of Steinsdalsfossen such as emerald grass and lush forests are no less beautiful than the waterfall itself.

Bryggen in Bergen 

Not everyone knows that the formation of the city of Bergen started with Bryggen. It has been a central part of the city since the time of the Vikings.

Contemporary Bryggen represents a colorful series of houses dating back to the 14th century. Additionally, it serves as a meeting place for artists working in their workshops and tourists visiting local souvenir shops. This landmark of Norway is also included in the UNESCO list.

You’ll remember a trip here because of the large number of wooden houses, statues on their facades, and narrow streets with wooden pavements which are not that common in rest of Europe. Craft shops, small restaurants, and art galleries are other lovely additions that make a visit here interesting.

If you come to Bryggen, it means you’ll spend some time in Bergen. Use my guide with must-do things in Bergen to get the most out of a trip.

Modalen in Western Norway

Modalen is a very scenic municipality north of Bergen known for the beautiful river and impressive (but smaller) fjords with dramatic views. It is also quieter and less crowded which is a real delight in summer. Unlike the more famous and often crowded fjords, Modalen offers a quieter, more intimate fjord experience.

If you are visiting Norway for a very short period of time and flying to Bergen with a goal to see fjords, beautiful nature, and Norwegian countryside, you can easily plan a trip to Modalen municipality (mainly by car) for a day as the drive is only around 2 hours one way.

And if you go, see my post about Modalen as a hidden gem with the best activities and things to do.

Atlantic Road Between Alesund and Trondheim  

The road between Elde and Kristiansund is considered to be one of the most scenic in the world. If you plan to drive from Alesund to Trondheim, make a detour and take a ferry to Molde. From there, you’ll be able to go all the way to Kristiansund, and from Kristiansund all the way to Trondheim. 

The two-lane automobile highway is 8.5 km long and runs along the northern coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Twelve bridges over the water connect small islands with the mainland. 

For the best experience, it is advisable to drive on this road in Norway in summer when the weather is good and roads are clean from the snow. Also, on a sunny summer day, you can see seals and whales from the window of the car. 

Juvet Landscape Hotel 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Juvet Landscape Hotel (@juvetlandscapehotel)

If you are flying to Alesund and planning to be in the surrounding area, book at least one night at the Juvet Landscape Hotel .

Eight laconic buildings that resemble boxes and are made of glass and wood are masterfully inscribed in the landscape of the Valldal Valley. Here, you will sleep on the most comfortable bed and get the best view this world can offer.

Because of the glass walls from the floor to the ceiling, the houses completely merge with the landscape, becoming almost invisible.

The interior is very minimalistic. In a room, you’ll find just a bed, a floor lamp, and an armchair. The hotel’s owners believe that nothing should distract guests from the contemplation of nature. But the place will feel upscale. 

Lodalen & Oldedalen Valleys 

Lodalen and Oldedalen in Western Norway recently became our go-to destinations as picturesque valleys with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and glaciers like Briksdalsbreen (the one you can see in the photo).

They both are a bit hidden from the famous points of interest but still lie on the main route between Bergen and Alesund.

Lodalen is more touristy in summer since it is easier to visit it from Stryn, but Oldedalen is quieter (except when there is a cruise ship in town) and bedroom views from the camping sites are just insane.

If you decide to go, make sure to include a hike to Klovane for an extra ordinary view of the Oldedalen Valley, definitely hike to Briksdalsbreen glacier to see it close (but it is quite busy in July and August), explore the lake by boat or canoe (rent is available in town), eat fresh waffles with jam at Yri Outdoor (that also rent kayaks and canoes), and stay in Olden Camping with beautiful territory and views.

Norwegian Petroleum Museum in Stavanger

If you are visiting the southern part of Norway and looking for the best things to do in Stavanger, definitely add the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to your itinerary.

The place is interesting for everyone, not only for kids. The expositions are built in such a way that both children and adults will find lots of value. 

Here you can learn how oil and gas were formed millions of years ago, and how they are produced along the Norwegian coast. You will get an idea of ​​technologies, volumes, difficulties, and tensions during the process.

In the museum, you can also “ visit the Northern Sea ” and see what type of advanced underwater technologies are used. Interactive stations and texts explain all the difficulties of the work of divers. The main element of the exhibition is a film that takes you to 1978 when divers had to dive to a depth of 72 meters.

The Petroleum Museum is recognized as not only one of the most interesting places to visit in Norway but also as one of the most beautiful museums in the entire world! Here is the link to their website with details.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Norway in Summer

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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13 Comments

Lovely places! Thanks for sharing 🙂 You should totally mention the north though, it is sooo beautiful up here! (a bit biased but still hahha).

You are absolutely right, I do have to mention the north. I was thinking to create another article where I would write only about it. I felt that everywhere in Norway was beautiful. Sometimes it didn’t really matter where to go 🙂

Omg love to visit Norway! Only this year I’ve visited Scandinavia for the first time!

It is such a magical place! We can’t wait to return!

Any advice on how to reduce costs? And is Norway as expensive as everyone says?

Hi Penny, Norway is really expensive as everyone says, even if you are not a tourist but living there. As for how to reduce costs, do you mean on a trip as a tourist or when moving and living in Norway? If you want to save on a trip, then the first thing to look at is accommodation – look for campers, they are usually the cheapest for daily rent. On average, a day in a camping cabin for four people without a private bathroom in a cottage costs between 50-60€, depending on the popularity of the place and season. If visiting in summer, you can live in a tent (camping is allowed anywhere) and that will save you much more. If you rent a car, to be able to save on gas, do not refuel on/near the main highways and big roads. It is better to do this in small towns where prices are lower. Also, often, cheap gasoline is offered by small automatic filling stations, where you can pay only with a credit card.

It is possible to significantly reduce the cost of food if you buy food in large supermarkets (like REMA 1000 and KIWI for example), and not eat in cafes and restaurants.

If cooking yourself is not included in your plans, then the best places to eat in Norway on a budget would be Asian restaurants that offer rather big portions at democratic prices or Turkish kebab/doner cafeterias.

For getting places, if renting a car is not an option, you should consider buses. The bus service in the country is developed at a very good level, thanks to which you can get to almost any corner and pay less than for the train. Also, in most cases, the cost of a bus ticket includes the cost of a ferry crossing.

As in the case of trains, public transport fares are considered high, but there are often different ticket sales and promotions, that can help to reduce the cost of a ticket. If you plan to travel a lot, look into tickets for 3, 7 or 21 days. They give the right to unlimited travel throughout the country during that time.

I hope it helps!

How do I get to the Norway Bucket List and Best of Norway in Summer that are shown above. BTW…this was a great read!!

Hi Joni, the best way to get around is by plane and by car. I updated my post and also added a few words about the company where to rent a car in Norway – DiscoverCars . We’ve rented from them many times and always had a very good experience. If you want to save time, it is best to travel within the country by plane and then rent a vehicle to go on day trips from main cities.

Anya was introducing Holmenkoll Resort in Oslo. I just want to add that the building of the Ski Museum, is underneath the famous Holmenkoll Ski Jump. It’s were all the big ski jumping competitions takes place. Very impressive.

Thank you for the input, Astrid!

Hi Please suggest a 10-12 days itinerary for Norway for a couple starting from 1st May 2024. I am from India and pure vegetarian.

I offer itinerary planning services for a fee. If you are interested, let me know and we’ll go from there.

Thank you for sharing. You’ve just provided some great inspiration as we plan our trip next year ❤️

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15 Best Places In Norway You Have To Visit

There are so many best places in Norway to visit. I mean, you’ve got the Troms region in the very north, Alesund on the west coast and lovely little places like Flåm that are nestled deep in the mountains.

Plus, don’t even get me started with all the incredible fjords you should visit.   The whole country is a proper goldmine of places that every traveller should see.

Obviously, Norway has an incredible diversity that goes far beyond its beautiful scenery, with its culture being just as exciting and beautiful to experience.

From the likes of the Sami people in the north with their historic cultural traditions to the cosmopolitan  culture of Oslo – there’s a little slice of Norwegian culture that everyone will enjoy. 

Anyway, without rambling on about just every cultural spot, I wanted to share some of the best places in Norway.

1.) Drive the Atlanterhavsveien (The Atlantic Road)

The Atlanterhavsveien, commonly known as the Atlantic Road in English is a gorgeous and impressive drive through one of the best places in Norway.

Connecting the mainland of Norway with the pretty island of Averøya, it’s a great place to drive for the day. Make sure to visit Kvernes Stave Church, too. It’s around 600 years old and one of the oldest in the region.

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Storseisundet Bridge, too.

2.) See the beautiful Hamnøy

Hamnøy in Lofoten has become known, the world over, for its impressive landscape and unspoilt charm… and it’s easy to see why.

Possibly one of the best places in Norway, it’s a spot you should definitely head to without hesitation.

Make sure to visit the tiny little fishing village of Hamnøy which is the oldest in Lofoten. Perched on the edge of the Reinefjord (fjord), it really is a place you shouldn’t miss.

Also, it looks just as impressive during the day as it does at night, especially if you see the northern lights.

See more places you have to see in Lofoten

3.) Visit the tiny village of Reine

Easily, one of the best places in Norway – Reine is picture-perfect.

Nestled on the island of Moskenesøya it is actually part of the Lofoten set of islands and archipelago that’s made this region so gorgeous.

For a stunning experience, wrap up warm (with plenty of layers) and head to Bunes Beach, especially at night. Find a nice spot, lay back on the sandy beach and watch the dancing Northern Lights above you. It really is a special experience.

See some of the best Fjords to visit in Norway

4.) Explore Bergen

Bergen is a great city to explore and one that’s steeped in history. Make sure you wander through the wooden buildings and crooked wharf that is Bryggen (a UNESCO-protected site).

Ride the Fløibanen (funicular) to see the best sunset over the city and wander around the trails and walkways that crisscross the mountain tops.

If it’s a sunny day, make sure to take a picnic with you. It really is one of the best places in Norway to explore.

Read more on what to see in Bergen

5.) Find the best coffee in Oslo

Oslo is a surprising city, to me at least.

The centre of the town is surprisingly small (if you’re coming from places like London) but it’s actually filled with a whole heap of unique shops, gorgeous art and some iconic buildings you shouldn’t miss.

Make sure to visit The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet which looks incredible when the sun is setting. Visit the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and head out on a boat for the afternoon on the Oslo Fjord.

For the best coffee, head over to Tim Wendelboe, they literally know everything and anything to do with good-quality roasts. Just be warned, if you visit at peak times, you’ll likely have to take your coffee to go; there’s limited seating inside.

Read more: Best things to do in Oslo

6.) Explore the Arctic Circle on a Spa Boat

Yup, you heard that right!

There’s a dedicated spa boat in the Arctic Circle that you can hop on and discover more of the best places in Norway.   Moored in Tromso , it’s best to book your tickets online and arrive in plenty of time before the boat leaves.

The best thing about the boat, called the Vulcana is that it’s totally luxurious and one of the best Spa breaks I could ever have wished for.

I mean, where can you dip into a piping hot tub, bathe in a steam room, relax in a sauna and watch whales from the deck – all whilst cruising through the Arctic Circle?

Without sounding too cheesy, it really is magical. Make sure to take a dip in the almost freezing sea too. As you can see from my face, I let out the biggest scream once I hopped in!

Read more on the Spa Boat in Tromso

7.) Hike Pulpit Rock

You’re almost guaranteed one of the best views of Norway from the top of Pulpit Rock . I mean, it’s one of the best places in Norway – especially with the vistas you’ll see across the fjord . Now, the hike itself (return) takes around 4-5 hours but it depends on how fast and fit you are.

The hike itself is pretty amazing too, just be prepared for changing weather conditions and be extra careful once you reach the top. Hikers have died falling off the ledge, especially during high winds.

Don’t risk getting too close to the edge. After all, it’s a 600+ metre (2000 ft) almost vertical drop! Without sounding too much like a parent, always be sensible and safe on these hikes – it’s no fun to anyone if you cause yourself an injury.

Read more on how to hike Pulpit Rock

8.) Spot puffins on Runde Island

Runde Island is one of the prettiest and best places in Norway to visit – especially for a tiny little island. You can actually sail directly on a RIB boat from the city of Alesund , which is great if you’re short on time.

If you want to keep your feet on dry land, you can also drive across one of the bridges, too. Make sure to visit when the puffins are home. If you’re lucky you’ll spot thousands in and around this unspoilt landscape.

Read more about getting to Runde Island

9.) Visit the Briksdalsbreen Glacier

Possibly one of the easiest glaciers to visit around Stryn, the Briksdalsbreen Glacier is truly one of the best places in Norway you should see.

The Glacier itself is an ‘offshoot’ or arm of the much larger, Jostedalsbreen glacier which is also amazing to see (but harder to get to). So if you’re looking for a challenge, maybe look for another route/glacier.

As I mentioned, It’s a pretty easy glacier to see if you’re struggling with some of Norway’s more challenging hikes, especially due to the troll cars that will take you up to the top. If you do decide to hike, it’s a pretty short 45-60 minutes to the glacier.

10.) Find polar bears in Svalbard

Perched on Spitsbergen Island in Svalbard, Longyearbyen is a cosy little place that is pretty remote (even by Norwegian standards). Perched high within the Arctic Circle, it’s a pretty wild and awe-inspiring place to visit.

From here you’ll be able to join a few designated and responsible tours that’ll take you deeper into the islands in the search for polar bears.

Make sure to also include a visit to the North Pole Expedition Museum and see the intimate Galleri Svalbard showcasing local art.

For some tasty grub, head over to Gruvelageret who are known for their delicious dishes.

11.) Explore Alesund

Alesund is one of the West Coast’s bigger cities (though, again, pretty small by international standards). Stay in the town and hike to the top of Fjellstua Viewpoint, visit Aksla Mountain and gorge at Sjobua for some amazing local foods.

Don’t forget to see the gorgeous accommodation at Molja Lighthouse , too.

For a great brunch or light lunch, pop into the Invit Espresso Bar. They make an epic chocolate cake that I still long for to this day!

Read more on what to see in Alesund

12.) See the Geirangerfjord

There are many beautiful fjords in Norway. They’re a dime-a-dozen but some just really stand out, don’t they? For me, that’s Geirangerfjord .

Make sure get to the  highest viewpoint at Dalsnibba , it’ll take you around 40 minutes to drive but well worth it. Just make sure to pack some thick coats… it gets chilly when you’re this high up.

Much lower down, you can also take a boat over to Seven Sisters Waterfalls and Friaren Waterfall. They really are gorgeous to see.

For a lovely afternoon hike, make sure you visit Storseterfossen . A waterfall that you can actually walk behind. It’s one of the best places in Norway, that’s for sure.

Read more: Visiting the Geirangerfjord

13.) Drive the Trollstigen

Between the villages of Åndalsnes and Valldal is the gorgeous Trollstigen Drive. Possibly, the most well-known road in Norway, it really is a stunning route to drive.

Along your way, make a pit-stop at the Trollstigen platform for some epic views across the valleys.

14.) See Norway’s National Mountain, Stetind

Around 15 miles, or so, from Kjøpsvik – Stetind Mountain is Norway’s national mountain. Its look is quite different to many other mountains in the area, so you can’t miss it.

Best of all, if you’re feeling energetic or fancy a challenge, try climbing to the top with a professional guide. Narvik Guides are probably one of the best in the area with all their guides being IFMGA Mountain Guide certified.

15.) Hike to Trolltunga

Trolltunga is one of the best places in Norway for a scenic view. The views across the region are just stunning from the top.

The hike itself is pretty demanding and not for the faint-hearted and you should really consider if you fit enough before heading along the trail. The whole hike will take all day (if not, 12+ hours if you’re a little slower), so make sure you pack lots of supplies and dress responsibly. No one likes a reckless hiker.

Important: Between mid-October to mid-March, you should not hike on the trail. At this time of year, it’s very dangerous and not even recommended for the most experienced of hikers. Always listen to local and official advice.

See more on visiting Trolltunga

Read more: Best things to see in Oslo

12 Of The Best Things To Do In Oslo

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Safest Countries in the World 2024

Iceland has been the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row, according to the Global Peace Index.

The Nordic countries of Europe (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland) rank among the 25 safest globally, most of them also being among the top 10 happiest nations worldwide.

Common attributes of the world's safest countries include high levels of wealth, social welfare, education, effective criminal justice systems, and positive government-citizen relationships.

The Global Peace Index (GPI) ranks the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. This report is published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace, which defines itself as "an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to shifting the world's focus to peace as a positive, achievable and tangible measure of human wellbeing and progress." The report researches countries to determine which are the safest and which are the most dangerous .

A total of 163 countries are featured in the GPI report, which ranks each country's level of safety or danger based upon 23 different indicators. The indicators used to compile the GPI include the number of internal and external violent conflicts, level of distrust, political instability, potential for terrorist acts, number of homicides, and military expenditures as a percentage of GDP. These indicators are grouped into three broad categories—Ongoing International Conflict, Societal Safety and Security, and Militarization—and a score is calculated for each of the 163 nations featured in the report. The lower the score, the higher the nation is ranked in terms of safety.

Top 15 Safest Countries in the World (Global Peace Index — lower is better):

The United States ranked 129th in the Global Peace Ranking for 2022. The United States' ranking has fallen every year since 2016, a drop usually attributed to a decrease in life satisfaction, rising political division, and an increasing wealth gap.

Is the World Becoming More or Less Safe?

According to the 2022 GPI report, the world has become less safe over the past 14 years, with per-country scores deteriorating by 3.2% on average. The report further notes that safety and peacefulness have decreased for eleven of the past fourteen years. For example, global peace declined by 0.3% overall between the 2021 and 2022 GPI reports. While safety improved in 90 countries, it dropped in 71 countries (and remained stable in two), for a net loss.

The 2022 report also states that declines tend to happen more swiftly and precipitously than do improvements, and pointed out that the most significant deterioration occurred in countries in conflict, such as Russia , Ukraine , Guinea , Burkina Faso , and Haiti . Europe remained the most peaceful region in the world, a position it has held for all the 16 years in which the Global Peace Index has existed.

World peace also decreased between the 2020 and 2021 reports, though by a much smaller margin of 0.07%, with 87 countries improving and 73 deteriorating. The COVID-19 crisis and increasing tensions among major world powers were cited as two main causes for the decrease. A comparison of the 2020 and 2019 reports, to step back a year, reveals a total of 81 countries growing more peaceful and 80 deteriorating. The average country score deteriorated by 0.34%.

The Safest Continent in the World

A majority of the top 25 safest countries are European countries. Most notable are the Nordic countries of Europe. Norway , Sweden , Denmark , Iceland , and Finland are not only among Europe's safest countries , they are among the top 25 safest countries anywhere on Earth. This region is thus considered the safest in the world, with a homicide rate of 0.8 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants. These five Nordic countries are all in the top 10 happiest countries in the world as well. The second-safest region among the top 25 safest countries is Asia . Both Europe and Asia have the world’s lowest homicide rates of 3 or fewer per 100,000 inhabitants.

Qualities the World's Safest Countries Have in Common

There are some commonalities among the safest countries in the world. For instance, safe countries tend to display high levels of wealth, social welfare, and education. Additionally, safe countries typically have effective criminal justice systems and governments that maintain very healthy relationships with their citizens.

Profiles of the World's 10 Safest Countries

According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. Iceland is a Nordic nation with a relatively small population of 340,000. Iceland has a very low level of crime, which is typically attributed to its high standard of living, small population, strong social attitudes against crime, a high level of trust in its well-trained police force, and a lack of tension among social and economic classes. Iceland has no military, and the police do not carry firearms (only extendable batons and pepper spray). Iceland also has laws in place to guarantee equality, such as legal same-sex marriage and same-sex adoptions, religious freedom, and equal pay for men and women.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand is the second-safest country in the world. Like Iceland, New Zealand has a very low crime rate, and violent crime is especially rare. Theft is still worth guarding against, especially in tourist areas (which holds true in every country in the world), but overall risk is minimal. Unlike its neighbor Australia , which is known for its dangerous wildlife (box jellyfish, taipan snakes, stonefish, funnel web spiders, and more), New Zealand has no deadly animals. New Zealanders are generally open-minded and have laws in place to prevent the violation of anyone's freedom of speech or expression. As in Iceland, police in New Zealand do not carry personal firearms.

Ireland became notably more peaceful in 2021 and vaulted from 11th place to 3rd in the 2022 rankings as a result. Crime is quite low outside of a few city neighborhoods ( as in any country, one should be wary of pickpockets and scammers in tourist-dense areas), and there is little threat of cultural violence or terrorism. In fact, the Irish landscape may pose a greater safety risk than its people—the country's breathtaking cliffs and winding country roads must be treated with respect, especially during a sudden rainstorm or in areas with no cell reception.

Ranked fourth on the 2022 Global Peace Index, Denmark is another one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Denmark is one of the few countries where people report feeling safe at any time of day or night, even children. Denmark has a high level of equality and a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare — two qualities that contribute to its citizens' feelings of safety and happiness.

Corruption is rare in Danish business or politics, as honesty and trust are top priorities. While Denmark has a high personal income tax , it funds social programs that ensure all people receive services and perks that help them live comfortable lives. For example, everyone in Denmark has access to tuition-free higher education and healthcare with no additional fees to them, and the elderly are provided at-home care helpers.

Austria ranked as the fifth-safest country in the world for 2022. While violent demonstrations in the wake of ongoing social unrest remain a concern, these are relatively easy to avoid, and otherwise, Austria is a very safe country to visit. Serious crimes are uncommon (with the usual caveat to watch for pickpockets and purse-snatchers). Additionally, Austria has been spared any major acts of terrorism in recent years.

6. Portugal

Portugal comes in sixth in the most peaceful countries rankings for 2022. In 2014, Portugal was ranked 18th globally and has since made significant strides. Unlike Iceland and New Zealand, Portugal has armed police; however, an increased police presence has resulted in a decreased crime rate in the country. In recent years, Portugal has experienced an economic resurgence, decreasing its unemployment rate from over 17% to under 7%. Portugal consistently ranks among the best countries for retirement , due in no small part to its high level of safety.

7. Slovenia

One of the former constituents of Yugoslavia , Slovenia has a high safety ranking that can be attributed to its excellent scores in three categories: travel security, medical risks, and road safety. Like many Slavic states , Slovenia installed a democratic government in the mid-1990s and is now focused on improving quality of life in many areas, including safety and sustainability.

8. Czech Republic

Crime rates in the Czech Republic have steadily decreased over the years, with rates of violent crime in particular dropping significantly. The Czech Republic also has a low incidence of terrorism and natural disasters. Finally, the country boasts many clean and efficient hospitals and a state-run health insurance system that offers affordable rates and enables near-universal coverage.

9. Singapore

Singapore ranks ninth on the GPI for 2022. In a Gallup report from 2018, Singapore residents felt the highest sense of personal security and had more positive experiences with law enforcement than did residents of any other country. Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, possibly due to the severe penalties that are issued for even small crimes. The government and police strictly control guns and other firearms, and violent and confrontational crimes are rare in Singapore.

As a city-state, Singapore also ranks as the second- safest city in the world according to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). In 2019, Singapore ranked first for infrastructure security and personal security, second for digital security, and eighth for health security.

The tenth-safest country in the world for 2022 is Japan. Japan has been in the top ten countries in the Global Peace Index for 14 years, consistently receiving high marks for low crime rates , minimal internal conflict, and virtually nonexistent political unrest. Japan's proximity to potentially hostile neighbors China and North Korea could become a threat to its safety at some point, but has not thus far.

Japan is known for citizens having limited access to firearms, as the Japanese do not view carrying a firearm as an individual's right. According to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit, Tokyo was the safest city in the world in 2019, ranking first in cybersecurity, second for health security, and fourth for infrastructure security and personal security.

IEP applies a rigorous research process to arrive at its GPI rankings. According to IEP , “The GPI covers 163 countries comprising 99.7 percent of the world’s population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources.”

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What is the safest country in the world?

Iceland is the safest country in the world, with a Global Peace Index of 1.124 .

What are the 5 safest countries in the world?

The 5 safest countries in the world are Iceland , Denmark , Ireland , New Zealand and Austria .

Frequently Asked Questions

• Global Peace Index 2022 - Institute for Economics and Peace
• These Are the Safest Countries - US News
• Most Dangerous and Safest Countries Index - TravelSafe Abroad

Ukraine war latest: British volunteer medic dies in Ukraine; Kanye West 'makes surprise visit to Russia

British volunteer medic Peter Fouche has died while fighting for Ukraine, his charity has confirmed. The Foreign Office has also said it is "supporting the family of a British man". Elsewhere, rapper Kanye West has reportedly travelled to Moscow on a private visit.

Monday 1 July 2024 15:51, UK

• Big picture:  What you need to know this week
• British volunteer medic dies in Ukraine  
• Ukraine to let murderers into army as prisoners offered freedom
• Kanye West 'makes surprise visit to Moscow'
• Russia claims further territory gains in Donetsk region | Ukraine 'repels attacks' near Moscow-claimed villages
• Explained : What's happening on new Kharkiv front?
• Your questions answered : Has the West been honest about Ukraine's failures?
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Andy Hayes, and (earlier)  Katie Williams and  Ollie Cooper

An intact guidance system from a long-range, US-made ATACMS missile has been captured by Russian forces, Russia's RIA state news agency has reported.

Video footage released by RIA showed an unidentified individual, his face concealed by a balaclava, examining what he said was part of an Army Tactical Missile Systems weapon.

He shows labels on the back of the missile's GPS guidance system, indicating it came from a US army store in Alabama. 

Capturing the hardware allows Russia to study how the missiles are controlled during flight, he said.

Sky News is unable to verify the footage.

Washington began to supply Ukraine with ATACMS several months ago.

They can hit targets up to 186 miles away - roughly double the range of the HIMARS systems that the United States began sending to Ukraine in 2022.

Moscow has described the supply of such weapons as an escalatory move.

Russia claims the US helps Ukrainian troops to fire them - something Washington denies. 

A British volunteer medic reportedly involved in saving more than 200 lives on the front line has died in Ukraine, his charity has confirmed.

Peter Fouche, who was born in South Africa, travelled to Ukraine in 2022 where he helped to build a field hospital, and then later served in the Territorial Defence Forces and Armed Forces of Ukraine.

He co-founded Project Konstantin, a Ukrainian charity supporting frontline Ukrainian troops, which confirmed his death in a post on social media.

The charity said Mr Fouche was "actively involved in saving more than 200 wounded Ukrainian soldiers" and bringing aid to people in affected towns and cities.

It praised his "bravery and selflessness" and called his death "the worst nightmare".

"We will honour Pete's memory by continuing the work he was so passionate about, carrying forward his legacy of courage and kindness," it said.

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Ukraine and are in contact with the local authorities."

These pictures were taken near Chasiv Yar in Donetsk, eastern Ukraine. 

In recent weeks, Russian attacks have focused on the town, with Ukrainian commanders in the area saying their resources remain stretched.

That is partly because of a recent gap in US funding, caused by deadlock in Congress.

The House of Representatives finally approved sending $60.8bn (£49bn) in foreign aid to Ukraine in April .

Sebastian Coe, the head of World Athletics (WA), has met Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.

Coe, the British double Olympic gold medallist, met the Ukrainian president on Friday before attending the Ukraine athletics championships in Lviv.

WA said today that Coe "underscored World Athletics' unwavering support for the people and athletes of Ukraine as they defend themselves against ongoing Russian aggression".

He has also committed to the continued support of Ukrainian athletes through the Ukraine Fund.

The fund provides support to professional athletes, ensuring they can continue to train, qualify for and participate in World Athletics Series events and the World Athletics Championships.

The International Olympic Committee has suggested that Russian and Belarusian sportsmen and women could compete at the Paris Olympics as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems.

But WA is standing firm on a blanket ban.

A civilian has been killed in Ukrainian shelling of Russia's Belgorod region, according to the local governor. 

Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed Ukraine had attacked an agricultural facility. 

Belgorod, which borders Ukraine's Kharkiv region, has come under regular attack since Russia started its invasion. 

Rishi Sunak has claimed that multi-year support from the UK to Ukraine would be at risk if Labour were to come into power this week.

The UK prime minister told reporters three days ahead of the general election that his Conservative Party was backing up "words with actions" and "investing more in defence".

"You have to have strength to signal to your adversaries that we're not going anywhere. That's why under the Conservatives we're increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP. If Keir Starmer is in charge those plans are going to be cut," he said.

The Labour Party has pledged to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP - but has not set a timescale for doing so - and to undertake a strategic defence review within the first year of government.

Sir Keir has said his party will keep supporting Ukraine.

Dozens of glide bombs used by Russia to hammer Ukrainian frontline regions have mistakenly fallen on its own territory, according to a report.

An internal Russian document seen by the Washington Post reveals at least 38 of the bombs came down in the Belgorod border region between April 2023 and April 2024 - including at least four on Belgorod city itself.

Most of the bombs did not explode, according to the report. However, one detonated when it hit a road in Belgorod last year, causing a 65ft wide crater and causing damage to buildings and cars, the paper said.

The Washington Post cited experts as saying the Soviet-era munitions "often fail - resulting in impacts on Russian territory".

The internal report said most of the bombs were discovered by civilians, and in the majority of cases the Russian defence ministry could not identify when they'd been launched.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said yesterday that Russia has used over 800 glide bombs against Ukraine in the past week alone.

"A certain percentage of Russian bombs is defective," military expert Ruslan Leviev told the Post. He said it was believed the "accidental releases" were caused by the "unreliability" of the guidance systems they'd been retrofitted with.

However he noted that "only a fraction" of the bombs fail, meaning their overall effectiveness for Russia is not affected.

Russian forces have taken control of two villages in eastern Ukraine, the Russian defence ministry has claimed.

In a statement, it said Russian troops had taken over Stepova Novoselivka in the northeastern Kharkiv region, and Novopokrovske in Donetsk, in the east.

Kyiv has not yet responded to the claims.

It comes after Moscow said yesterday that its forces had seized two further villages east of the city of Donetsk (see 6.22 post).

Supermarket staff are working to remove debris caused by a Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro this morning.

Regional governor Serhiy Lysak said earlier that a ballistic missile attack on the central city injured seven people, including a teenage boy.

The attack also damaged a supermarket and nearby homes, he said.

Ukraine is "ramping up the production of drones" and other weapons in the face of increasing Russian attacks.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said "everything" was needed on the battlefield to save lives "through the power of technology".

In a post on social media, he said the war showed technology was an "effective defence against aggression".

Kyiv has increased its production of drones, "certain types of weapons, ammunition, equipment, demining machines and many other essential items", the president said.

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• Local & State

Cirque du Soleil, Greek Festival, Pete Davidson and more happening this weekend

See a Maine State Ballet performance and get your fill of lobster rolls.

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We know that this weekend’s forecast for the next several days is a bit on the sketchy side, with some rain forecasted.

But will that stop us from getting out there and doing a whole bunch of stuff?

Absolutely not, because it’s still summer in Maine. Plus, we all know that if you want the weather to change here, you just need to give it a minute.

Portland Jazz Orchestra performing with Katie Oberholtzer at Congress Square Park. Photo by Christopher Andrew

Fingers crossed for tonight’s free performance in Congress Square Park from the Portland Jazz Orchestra. The music starts at 6 p.m.

See Portland Jazz Orchestra for free on Thursday

Kal Sugatski, left, and Katherine Liccardo laugh while pausing to remember the next segment of a song while playing their instruments on a forested shoreside trail on Mackworth Island for a portrait. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

Vigorous Tenderness immersive performance on Mackworth Island is Friday from 6-7:30 p.m. (Original date was today, change due to weather forecast). Advertisement

Concert series Vigorous Tenderness celebrates the change in seasons and classical music

There’s plenty to eat at the Greek Festival in Portland. Gordon Chibroski/Staff Photographer

Thankfully, the Greek Festival in Portland is beneath a gigantic tent. The festival started today and runs through Saturday. It’s also the first entry on our annual list of can’t-miss summer events .  The La Kermesse Franco-Americaine Festival also starts today and runs through Sunday.

Make it your best summer yet with these 17 events

Sole Pane’s brioche knot on the double burger from Kennebec Meat Co. Courtesy of Kennebec Meat Co.

If Greek food isn’t your thing, maybe a burger is. But not just any burger. The Kennebec Meat Co. in Bath makes a legendary one, and it’s only available on Saturdays.

This Bath butcher shop’s burger is worth planning your Saturday around

The lobster roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset. Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer

Still not satisfied? We’ve got two words for you: Lobster rolls! Here are seven places to get a great one, including Red’s Eats in Wiscasset and the White Barn Inn in Kennebunk.

What do you look for in a lobster roll? Here are 7 of Maine’s best, for all different reasons

A scene from Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo show. Photo by Maja Prgomet

Let’s shift from food to Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo show at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. Performances start tonight and run through Sunday. Other weekend options include Pete Davidson Friday at Merrill Auditorium and “Dancer’s Choice” tonight and tomorrow at Maine State Ballet.

See Cirque du Soleil, Maine State Ballet and Pete Davidson, all this weekend

Lagers clink at Argenta Brewing. Photo by Amanda Bizzaro

Quench your thirst this weekend (or anytime) with a cold lager. We’ve got several ideas of where to enjoy one including Bissell Brothers, Argenta Brewery and Batson River. Cheers!

Lagers gain in popularity at Maine’s craft breweries. Here’s where to find them.

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