Norway Travel Guide: Top 14 Places to Visit in Norway, from Oslo and Bergen to the Fjords and Beyond
Top 14 Places to Visit in Norway - Top 14 Norway Travel Guide (Includes Oslo, The Fjords, Bergen, Tromsø and More)
Norway is a stunning country with a rich and diverse culture, history and nature. It offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for urban attractions, scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. In this article, we will explore the top 14 places to visit in Norway and what makes them so special. Whether you are planning a short trip or a longer vacation, you will find plenty of inspiration and tips to make the most of your time in this amazing country.
Top 14 Places to Visit in Norway - Top 14 Norway Travel Guide (Includes Oslo, The Fjords, Bergen, Tr
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Introduction
Why visit Norway?
Norway is a land of contrasts, where you can experience the midnight sun in the summer and the northern lights in the winter. It is a country of breathtaking fjords, mountains, glaciers, forests and islands, as well as charming towns and cities with colorful architecture and vibrant culture. Norway is also a country of innovation and creativity, with a strong focus on sustainability and social welfare. It is home to some of the world's best museums, galleries, festivals and restaurants, as well as some of the most friendly and welcoming people you will ever meet.
When to visit Norway?
There is no bad time to visit Norway, as each season has its own charm and attractions. However, depending on your preferences and interests, you may want to choose a specific time of the year to enjoy the best of what Norway has to offer.
If you want to see the northern lights, the best time to visit is between September and March, when the nights are long and dark enough for the aurora borealis to be visible. The best places to see them are in the northern regions of Norway, such as Tromsø, Alta or Svalbard.
If you want to experience the midnight sun, the best time to visit is between May and July, when the sun never sets above the Arctic Circle. The best places to enjoy this phenomenon are in the northern and western parts of Norway, such as Lofoten Islands, Nordkapp or Ålesund.
If you want to explore the fjords, the best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is mild and sunny enough for hiking, kayaking or cruising. The best places to see the fjords are in the western and southern parts of Norway, such as Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord or Sognefjord.
If you want to experience the culture and history of Norway, the best time to visit is any time of the year, as there are always plenty of events and festivals to enjoy. The best places to learn about the Norwegian heritage are in the major cities and towns, such as Oslo, Bergen or Trondheim.
How to get around Norway?
Norway is a large and diverse country, so getting around can be a challenge. However, there are many options to choose from, depending on your budget, time and preferences.
If you want to travel by air, Norway has several international and domestic airports that connect the major cities and regions. The main airport is Oslo Airport Gardermoen, which is the hub for Norwegian Air Shuttle and Scandinavian Airlines. Other airports include Bergen Airport Flesland, Stavanger Airport Sola, Tromsø Airport Langnes and Trondheim Airport Værnes.
If you want to travel by train, Norway has an extensive and scenic rail network that covers most of the country. The main operator is Vy (formerly NSB), which offers regular and high-speed trains, as well as scenic trains such as the Flåm Railway, the Bergen Railway and the Dovre Railway. You can also take the Arctic Circle Train, which runs between Trondheim and Bodø.
If you want to travel by bus, Norway has a reliable and affordable bus system that connects the major cities and towns, as well as some of the rural areas. The main operators are NOR-WAY Bussekspress, Nettbuss and Flixbus. You can also take the Hurtigruten Coastal Express, which is a combination of a ferry and a bus service that runs along the Norwegian coast from Bergen to Kirkenes.
If you want to travel by car, Norway has a good road network that allows you to explore the country at your own pace. However, driving in Norway can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain, narrow roads, tunnels, bridges and tolls. You will also need to pay attention to the weather conditions, especially in winter. You can rent a car from various companies such as Hertz, Avis or Europcar.
Top 14 Places to Visit in Norway
Oslo
Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway, as well as its cultural, political and economic center. It is a modern and cosmopolitan city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for all tastes and interests. Whether you are into art, history, nature or nightlife, you will find something to enjoy in Oslo.
The Vigeland Sculpture Park
The Vigeland Sculpture Park is one of the most popular attractions in Oslo, and for a good reason. It is a vast park that features over 200 sculptures by Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland, depicting various aspects of human life and emotions. The sculptures are made of bronze, granite and wrought iron, and range from realistic to abstract. The park is also a beautiful green space that invites you to relax and admire the views.
The Norwegian Folk Museum
The Norwegian Folk Museum is an open-air museum that showcases the traditional and rural life of Norway from different regions and periods. It has over 150 buildings that have been relocated from their original sites, such as farmhouses, workshops, churches and schools. You can also see various exhibits of folk art, costumes, crafts and tools. The museum also hosts demonstrations of old skills and crafts, as well as cultural events and festivals.
The Holmenkollen Ski Jump
The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is a landmark of Oslo and a symbol of its passion for winter sports. It is a ski jumping hill that has hosted international competitions since 1892, including the Winter Olympics in 1952. It offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains from its top. You can also visit the Ski Museum and Simulator at its base, where you can learn about the history and culture of skiing in Norway and experience what it feels like to ski jump yourself.
Bergen
Bergen is the second largest city in Norway and one of its most charming and picturesque. It is located on the west coast of Norway, surrounded by seven mountains and facing the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its colorful wooden houses, its historic harbor and its lively culture. Bergen is also a gateway to some of the most stunning fjords in Norway.
Bryggen
a row of wooden buildings that date back to the 14th century, when Bergen was a major trading center of the Hanseatic League. The buildings have been restored and now house museums, shops, restaurants and cafes. You can also walk along the narrow alleys and courtyards behind them and discover the hidden gems of Bryggen.
Fløibanen Funicular
The Fløibanen Funicular is a fun and easy way to get to the top of Mount Fløyen, one of the seven mountains that surround Bergen. The funicular takes you from the city center to the summit in about seven minutes, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Bergen and the fjords. You can also explore the trails and attractions on Mount Fløyen, such as the Troll Forest, the Lake Skomakerdiket and the Fløyen Folk Restaurant.
The Fish Market
The Fish Market is a lively and colorful place where you can find fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, flowers and souvenirs. It is located on the harbor front, next to Bryggen, and has been operating since the 13th century. You can buy local delicacies such as salmon, cod, shrimp, crab and whale meat, or sample them at one of the stalls or restaurants. You can also enjoy the atmosphere and watch the fishermen unload their catch.
The Fjords
The fjords are the natural wonders of Norway and one of its main attractions. They are deep and narrow inlets of water that cut into the coastline, surrounded by steep cliffs and mountains. They were formed by glaciers during the Ice Age and have a unique and diverse landscape and wildlife. There are over a thousand fjords in Norway, but some of the most famous and beautiful ones are in the west and south of the country.
Geirangerfjord
Geirangerfjord is one of the most spectacular and visited fjords in Norway. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a part of the West Norwegian Fjords. It stretches for 15 kilometers and has a depth of up to 600 meters. It is known for its dramatic scenery, with waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, green valleys and farms. You can explore Geirangerfjord by boat, car, bike or foot, and admire its landmarks such as the Seven Sisters Waterfall, the Bridal Veil Waterfall and the Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint.
Nærøyfjord
Nærøyfjord is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a part of the West Norwegian Fjords. It is a branch of Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. It is only 17 kilometers long but only 250 meters wide at its narrowest point. It is considered one of the most scenic and unspoiled fjords in Norway, with steep mountainsides, waterfalls, glaciers and villages. You can experience Nærøyfjord by boat, kayak or train, and see its attractions such as the Stalheim Hotel, the Kjosfossen Waterfall and the Flåm Railway.
Sognefjord
and the Balestrand Village.
Tromsø
Tromsø is the largest city in northern Norway and the gateway to the Arctic. It is located on an island surrounded by mountains and fjords, and has a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is also one of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway, as well as to enjoy other winter activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing and skiing. Tromsø also has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with museums, churches and festivals.
The Arctic Cathedral
The Arctic Cathedral is a striking white church that stands out against the blue sky and the snowy mountains. It was built in 1965 and designed by Jan Inge Hovig, who was inspired by the shape of a glacier. The church has a 12-meter-high stained glass window that depicts the resurrection of Christ, as well as other artworks and organ pipes. The church is also a venue for concerts and events.
The Polar Museum
The Polar Museum is a museum that celebrates the history and achievements of the polar explorers and hunters who lived and worked in Tromsø. It is housed in a former warehouse that was used by the expeditions of Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, among others. The museum displays various artifacts, photographs and documents that tell the stories of these adventurous men and women. You can also join a guided tour or a polar walk to learn more about their lives.
The Northern Lights
The northern lights are one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world and one of the main reasons to visit Tromsø. The northern lights are caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with the earth's magnetic field, creating colorful curtains of light in the sky. The best time to see them is between September and March, when the nights are long and dark enough. The best places to see them are away from the city lights, such as on a mountain, an island or a boat.
Lofoten Islands
Lofoten Islands are a group of islands in northern Norway that offer some of the most stunning scenery and experiences in the country. They are known for their rugged mountains, sandy beaches, fishing villages and wildlife. They are also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, surfing and skiing. Lofoten Islands are also a place of culture and history, with museums, galleries and festivals.
Reine
Reine is one of the most picturesque villages in Lofoten Islands and Norway. It is located on a small island surrounded by majestic peaks and crystal-clear water. It has a population of about 300 people who live in traditional red and white fishermen's cottages called rorbuer. You can stay in one of these cottages and enjoy the views and the atmosphere of Reine. You can also explore the nearby attractions such as the Reinebringen Mountain, the Kirkefjord Bay and the Bunes Beach.
Henningsvær
the Lofoten Aquarium, the Lofoten Museum and the Lofoten War Memorial Museum.
Lofotr Viking Museum
Lofotr Viking Museum is a museum that recreates the life and culture of the Vikings who lived in Lofoten Islands more than 1000 years ago. It is based on the archaeological discovery of a large Viking chieftain's house that was excavated in 1983. The museum consists of a reconstructed longhouse, a boathouse, a forge and a pit house. You can also see various exhibits of Viking artifacts, weapons and crafts. The museum also hosts events and activities such as feasts, markets and games.
Stavanger
Stavanger is the fourth largest city in Norway and one of its most dynamic and diverse. It is located on the southwest coast of Norway, and has a long history as a fishing and oil town. It is also a cultural and artistic hub, with a vibrant street art scene, a modern concert hall and several museums and festivals. Stavanger is also a great base for exploring some of the natural wonders of Norway, such as the Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and the Kjeragbolten.
The Old Town
The Old Town is the historic and charming part of Stavanger, where you can see the largest collection of wooden houses in Europe. The houses date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, and have been preserved and restored to their original appearance. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets and admire the white, yellow and blue houses, as well as the flowers and gardens that decorate them. You can also visit some of the attractions in the Old Town, such as the Stavanger Cathedral, the Stavanger Museum and the Norwegian Canning Museum.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is one of the most famous and spectacular landmarks in Norway. It is a flat rock that juts out over the Lysefjord, at a height of 604 meters above sea level. It offers breathtaking views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains. You can reach Preikestolen by hiking a 4-kilometer trail that starts from the Preikestolen Mountain Lodge. The hike takes about two hours each way and requires a moderate level of fitness and good shoes. You can also take a boat or a bus from Stavanger to the lodge.
Kjeragbolten
Kjeragbolten is another amazing attraction that you can visit from Stavanger. It is a large boulder that is wedged between two cliffs, at a height of 984 meters above sea level. It is a popular spot for thrill-seekers who dare to stand on it and pose for photos. You can reach Kjeragbolten by hiking a 10-kilometer trail that starts from the Øygardstøl parking lot. The hike takes about five hours each way and requires a high level of fitness and good shoes. You can also take a boat or a bus from Stavanger to the parking lot.
Trondheim
Trondheim is the third largest city in Norway and one of its oldest and most historic. It was founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, who made it the first capital of Norway. It is also a religious center, as it is the seat of the Archbishop of Nidaros and the site of the Nidaros Cathedral, where several Norwegian kings are buried. Trondheim is also a lively and youthful city, with a large student population, a vibrant music scene and several cultural events.
Nidaros Cathedral
the most important and impressive church in Norway. It is a Gothic-style cathedral that was built over the burial site of St. Olav, the patron saint of Norway. It was completed in 1300 and has been restored several times since then. It has a rich and intricate decoration, with stained glass windows, sculptures, paintings and carvings. It also has a 96-meter-high tower that offers a panoramic view of the city. You can visit the cathedral and join a guided tour or an organ concert.
Bakklandet
Bakklandet is the old town of Trondheim and one of its most charming and cozy areas. It is located on the east bank of the Nidelva River, opposite the Nidaros Cathedral. It consists of wooden houses that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, painted in different colors and adorned with flowers and signs. You can walk along the cobbled streets and browse the shops, cafes and galleries that line them. You can also cross the Old Town Bridge, a wooden drawbridge that connects Bakklandet with the cathedral.
Rockheim
Rockheim is a museum that celebrates the history and culture of Norwegian rock music. It is housed in a former grain silo that has been transformed into a modern and interactive exhibition space. It displays various memorabilia, instruments, costumes and records from different genres and periods of Norwegian rock music. You can also listen to music, watch videos and play games at Rockheim. The museum also hosts concerts and events.
Ålesund
Ålesund is a small but beautiful city on the west coast of Norway. It is known for its distinctive architecture, its scenic location and its maritime heritage. Ålesund was rebuilt in 1904 after a devastating fire that destroyed most of the city. It was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style, with colorful buildings that feature turrets, spires, ornaments and details. Ålesund is also surrounded by islands, fjords and mountains, offering stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Jugendstil Architecture
Jugendstil Architecture is the main attraction of Ålesund and one of its most unique features. Jugendstil is the German name for Art Nouveau, a style of architecture that was popular in Europe at the turn of the 20th century. It is characterized by organic shapes, floral motifs, geometric patterns and asymmetrical designs. You can see some of the best examples of Jugendstil architecture in Ålesund by walking along the main streets such as Kongens Gate, Apotekergata and Kirkegata. You can also visit the Jugendstilsenteret, a museum and center for Art Nouveau.
Atlantic Sea Park
Atlantic Sea Park is an aquarium that showcases the marine life of the Atlantic Ocean and the Norwegian coast. It is one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Europe, with over 40 tanks and pools that contain various fish, crustaceans, mollusks and mammals. You can see cod, salmon, lobster, octopus, seal and more at Atlantic Sea Park. You can also watch feeding shows, touch some of the animals and learn about their habitats and behaviors.
Sunnmøre Museum
, boathouses, workshops and a church. You can also see various exhibits of folk art, costumes, tools and boats. The museum also has a collection of old boats that you can rent and sail on the nearby lake.
Røros
Røros is a small town in central Norway that has a rich and fascinating history. It was founded in 1644 as a mining town, after copper ore was discovered in the area. It became one of the most important mining centers in Norway, and attracted people from different backgrounds and cultures. Røros was also the scene of several battles and conflicts during the Swedish invasions of Norway. Today, Røros is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.
Røros Church
Røros Church is one of the landmarks of Røros and one of the most beautiful churches in Norway. It was built in 1784 and funded by the local mining company. It has a Baroque style, with a red brick exterior and a white wooden interior. It has a