From trendy and historic cities to sandy beaches, the Northern Lights to the Midnight sun Norway is one of the most unique holiday destinations on Earth. The country is of course most famous for its fjords, which stretch along its entire coast and someway inland too. Discover polar bears on the Arctic island of Spitsbergen or a cultural enlightening the charming city of Stavanger.
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Best Places to Visit in Norway
Norway is a country that certainly has something for everyone. If you love water sports (including canoeing, white water rafting, and sailing) then a trip to the fjords may well be in order.
You can also take to the coastal regions of Norway for a sport of bird watching or whale watching: highly rewarding activities that will take your breath away.
Or, head down to chic, elegant Oslo for some wonderful bars, classy restaurants, and galleries that will expand your mind.
Norway is also a very good starting point for anyone who wants to explore the Arctic further, including those who are keen to see the Northern Lights as they play dramatically across the sky.
10 of Norway’s best-loved regions
Here’s a look at ten of Norway’s best-loved regions and why visitors keep coming back for more.
Bergen Area
Bergen, Norway’s second biggest city, has a rich maritime heritage. Once the HQ of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire, you can find out more at the Hanseatic Museum.
The colourful historic waterfront at Bryggen is a UNESCO world heritage site and thanks to it’s central coastal location, the city is often referred to as the Gateway to the Fjords.
Oslo Area
The hip, historic capital of Oslo is home to some of Norway’s best museums and galleries, as well as a happening nightlife. It’s also located on its own fjord so by visiting the capital you don’t even miss out on taking a famous fjord boat trip. Unlike most European capitals, Oslo is full of vast green spaces and fresh air.
Highlights include the Royal Palace, the Nobel Peace Centre, the Viking Ship Museum, the Museum of Oslo, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Akershus Fortress. Despite the city’s reputation for being expensive, it is home to a good choice of budget accommodation in the form of hostels.
Alesund
The charming port city of Alesund was largely rebuilt in the early 20th century after a fire and as a result the city boasts some of Norway’s finest Art Nouveau architecture. It’s also excellently located for sea safari trips.
When it comes to accommodation Alesund has the advantage of being cheaper than Oslo or Bergen too.
Trondheim
It may be the third largest city in Norway, but by most standards it’s not that big making it easily explored in just a couple of days. The city has long been considered one of the best places to sample traditional Norwegian cuisine.
Excellently located in the centre of the country, it’s easy to reach Oslo to the south along the famous Green Shortcut, as well as the Central Fjords and northern Norway.
Northern Norway
Northern Norway is home to some of the country’s most scenic towns and regions. This includes the Lofoten archipelago, home to a Viking Museum and plenty of opportunities to take a ‘sea safari’.
Tromso, the largest city in northern Norway is an excellent place to view the famous Northern Lights, as well as enjoy the midnight sun in midsummer. The Nordkapp region at the far east of the country borders with Finland and is an excellent place to base yourself in if you want to include day trips to Finland as part of your trip.
Visitors flock to the Nordkapp region to see the Knivskjellodden monument, marking the most northerly tip of Europe and the famous glass domed visitor centre located on the North Cape itself.
Kristiansand coastline
The Kristainsand coastline is the most southerly point in Norway, which means it enjoys the sunniest weather. The town itself is found within a bay where arguably the best beaches in the country are found.
These crystal blue waters are warm enough to swim in for much of the year, whilst the beaches themselves play host to events such as the annual Palmesu Beach Festival. Accommodation books up fast at festival time so be sure to book in advance for the best prices.
Norwegian Fjords
The Norwegian Fjords are globally renowned for their awesome, jaw-dropping beauty. Created by glacial retreats, Norway is left with these fjords that run the entire length of its coast.
There are many boat trips available, both extended and day trips, especially from major coastal towns such as Bergen and Stavanger. Whilst it’s hard to ever say which are the best fjords, amongst those frequently cited as top options include Geirangerfjord, Preikestolen, Nærøyfjord and Trolltunga.
Stavanger
The city of Stavanger in southwest Norway is often overlooked in favour of Oslo and Bergen, but it is well worth a visit or even worth basing yourself at on an exploration of the southern fjords. As a one-time European Capital of Culture, the city plays host to a bursting calender of cultural events each year.
Many hotels, including budget options, are located a short walk from the compact and well preserved medieval city centre. Other accommodation options can be found in the white houses dotted all along the coast which are typical of this region of Norway.
Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen is the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. Located within the Arctic Circle, Spitsbergen enjoys midnight sun in summer and endures polar nights during winter.
The island is home to just a few thousand people who share this unspoilt glacial landscape with polar bears and reindeer.
Jotunheimen National Park Area
Located to the south of Norway, Jotunheimen is the most visited national park in the country. Some of the most popular trails include the peaks of Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind to the north of the park, (Norway’s two highest mountains) and the Besseggen Ridge to the south which includes spectacular views of glacial lakes.
Wildife enthusiasts flock to the Jotunheimen National Park to view animals including elk and even wolverine. Popular also with cyclists, alpine skiers, climbers, horseriders and ramblers, this park offers year-round activities. Those looking for accommodation will find a wide choice of lodge style hotels and mountain chalets.
