Image by adriandegonda from Pixabay
If you’re planning to tour Scandinavia, we’ve listed some of the best places in Norway you have to visit.
The country’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage is captivating.
Explore Norway’s fascinating Viking history by visiting historical sites, museums and viewing artifacts. Marvel at the stunning fjords, majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, all contributing to Norway’s undeniable charm.
Oslo
If you visit Oslo, don’t miss the Vigeland Sculpture Park located in Frogner Park. The park is home to more than 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland, including the impressive Monolith and Angry Boy.
Another must-see attraction is the Viking Ship Museum where you can view well-preserved Viking ships from the 9th century and other fascinating artifacts. The Oseberg ship, in particular, is exceptionally well-preserved.
For those seeking a vibrant atmosphere, the Aker Brygge waterfront district is the place to be. It offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or waterfront dining.
Bergen
Make sure to include Bryggen in your travel plans. This charming UNESCO World Heritage site features beautiful wooden buildings from the 14th century, providing a glimpse into the Viking Age maritime and trading history of Bergen.
If you’re interested in history, the Bergenhus Fortress is a must-visit. It is one of Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortresses, and inside its walls is the Rosenkrantz Tower. This tower showcases medieval artifacts and offers insights into the history of Bergen.
Fishing enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Norwegian Fisheries Museum in Ålesund. This museum highlights the significance of fishing in Norwegian culture and history, with exhibits on traditional fishing practices, boat building, and marine life.
Svalbard
Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean and well north of the Arctic Circle, is known for its untouched and pristine wilderness. The archipelago is six hundred miles off Norway’s mainland, so you’ll need to research when planning how to get to Svalbard.
Svalbard’s wildlife is diverse. Polar bears, in particular, are a significant attraction for visitors, especially during the warmer months from May to September.
During the summer, the sun never sets, which means more daylight hours for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife spotting, and boat trips. You can explore the surrounding area through marked trails like Platåberget and Sarkofagen, where you’ll get unforgettable views.
Tromsø
Tromsø is famous for its breathtaking Northern Lights and offers specialized tours and accommodations for Aurora enthusiasts. You can also visit the beautiful Tromsdalen Church, also known as the Arctic Cathedral, which has an ethereal ice sculpture-like design.
To get a stunning view of Tromsø, take a ride on the nearby cable car and enjoy the panoramic views. For those interested in Sailing Norway, Tromsø’s surrounding waters offer a unique opportunity to sail under the magical aurora borealis, providing an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of the Arctic. Additionally try dog sledding for an unforgettable adventure. Skilled huskies will lead you through snowy landscapes and enchanting forests, and if the conditions allow, you may even get to traverse frozen lakes or rivers.
Geirangerfjord
Norway’s Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtaking destination that boasts majestic waterfalls, picturesque villages, and serene reflections. The Seven Sisters waterfall, featuring seven cascading streams, is a must-see natural wonder that showcases the fjord’s beauty.
For an unforgettable experience, take a scenic drive along the Geiranger-Trollstigen National Tourist Route to reach the Geiranger Skywalk, also known as Dalsnibba. This route offers winding turns and incredible views, leading to a viewing platform that offers panoramic vistas of the fjord, mountains, and surrounding landscapes.
Lofoten Islands
Lofoten Islands is an Arctic archipelago boasting stunning mountains, rugged coastlines, and deep fjords.
Whether you visit during the midnight sun or the Northern Lights, you will be amazed by the breathtaking photo opportunities..
Explore scenic trails like Reinebringen and Munkebu, engage in outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and skiing, and visit picturesque fishing villages like Reine, Henningsvær, and Å.
This region has a rich fishing heritage where you can enjoy the charm of traditional wooden houses against the backdrop of mountains and the sea.
Stavanger and Preikestolen
Discover the charming historic district of Gamle Stavanger and take a trip back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries. You’ll be amazed by the well-preserved wooden houses, which have been converted into galleries, shops, and cafés for visitors to enjoy.
Make sure you visit Stavanger Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in Norway, which boasts impressive architecture and features medieval frescoes. For a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural and natural history, head to the Stavanger Museum, where you can admire artifacts from the Iron Age and Viking era.
Don’t miss the chance to take a day trip to the awe-inspiring Preikestolen, a towering cliff offering breathtaking views of fjords and mountains.
