Norway is a stunning Scandinavian country with a wealth of natural beauty, including fjords, mountains, and glaciers. The country is also rich in history, culture, and heritage. There are many places to visit in Norway that will take your breath away. Here are the 17 best places to visit in Norway.
Oslo
Oslo is Norway’s capital and largest city. It has a lot to offer, including museums, art galleries, and historical buildings. The Viking Ship Museum is a must-visit, where you can see Viking ships from the 9th century. The city is also home to the famous sculpture park Vigelandsparken.
Bergen
Bergen is another popular city in Norway, located on the west coast. It is known for its charming old town, Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is surrounded by seven hills and offers stunning views of the fjords. Don’t miss the chance to ride the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen.
Tromsø
Tromsø is located in northern Norway and is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. The city has a vibrant cultural scene and is home to the Arctic Cathedral, a stunning modernist church. Tromsø also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and dog sledding.
Trondheim
Trondheim is a historic city located in central Norway. It was the country’s capital during the Viking Age and has many historical buildings and landmarks, including the famous Nidaros Cathedral. The city is also known for its vibrant student culture and nightlife.
Geirangerfjord
The Geirangerfjord is a stunning fjord located in western Norway, known for its majestic waterfalls and steep cliffs. The fjord is surrounded by picturesque villages and offers a range of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, hiking, and fishing.
Sognefjord
The Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, located in western Norway. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers stunning views of the fjord. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat trip on the fjord or hike in the surrounding mountains.
Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are located in northern Norway and offer some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country. The islands are known for their rugged mountains, white sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. The islands are also a great place to see the Northern Lights.
Ålesund
Ålesund is a picturesque coastal town located in western Norway. It is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and is a great place to explore on foot. The town also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing.
Stavanger
Stavanger is another coastal city in Norway, located on the southwestern coast. It is known for its charming old town and is a great place to explore on foot. The city is also home to the famous Pulpit Rock, a steep cliff that offers stunning views of the fjord.
Flåm
Flåm is a small village located in western Norway and is a popular destination for tourists. The village is situated at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord. The Flåm Railway is a must-visit attraction, which is one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The train journey takes you through steep mountains, waterfalls, and tunnels and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Preikestolen
Preikestolen, also known as the Pulpit Rock, is a famous cliff located in southwestern Norway. The cliff offers breathtaking views of the Lysefjord and the surrounding mountains. The hike to the top of the cliff is challenging but rewarding, and the view from the top is truly unforgettable.
Trolltunga
Trolltunga, or the Troll’s Tongue, is another famous cliff located in southwestern Norway. The cliff juts out over a stunning mountain lake and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to Trolltunga is challenging, but the view from the top is worth it.
Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park is located in central Norway and is home to some of the highest peaks in the country. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. The park is also home to the famous Besseggen Ridge, a challenging but rewarding hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Rondane National Park
Rondane National Park is located in central Norway and is the country’s oldest national park. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. The park is also home to the famous Rondane Massif, a range of mountains that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hardangervidda National Park
Hardangervidda National Park is located in southwestern Norway and is the largest national park in the country. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains. The park is also home to the famous Hardangerjøkulen Glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in Europe.
Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a natural light display that occurs in the polar regions. Norway is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, especially in northern Norway. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is from late September to early April.
Conclusion
Norway is a stunning country with a wealth of natural beauty, history, and culture. There are many places to visit in Norway that will take your breath away, from the stunning fjords and mountains to the charming cities and towns. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities or cultural experiences, Norway has something for everyone.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Norway? The best time to visit Norway is from late May to early September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
- What is the currency used in Norway? The currency used in Norway is the Norwegian krone (NOK).
- What is the official language of Norway? The official language of Norway is Norwegian.
- Do I need a visa to visit Norway? If you’re a citizen of the EU/EEA, you do not need a visa to visit Norway. If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, you may need a visa, depending on your country of origin.
- What are some traditional Norwegian dishes? Some traditional Norwegian dishes include lutefisk, rakfisk, and fårikål.