About Destination
Travel to Norway
Norway is a captivating destination of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled in the heart of Scandinavia, Norway offers a myriad of natural wonders and enchanting experiences.
Explore the iconic Norway fjords, where majestic mountains meet sparkling blue waters, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Immerse yourself in the charm of Bergen, a UNESCO-listed city adorned with colourful wooden houses at Bryggen. Experience the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Tromsø, an ethereal dance of vibrant colours across the Arctic sky. Discover the picturesque town of Ålesund, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and stunning coastal views.
Venture to the magical Lofoten Islands, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers, with its rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages. In Oslo, the capital city, delve into history at the Viking Ship Museum and be inspired by the unique sculptures at the Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Embark on a scenic journey on the Flåm Railway, witnessing awe-inspiring landscapes along the way. Don't miss the Geiranger-Trollstigen National Tourist Route, a breathtaking drive through cascading waterfalls and winding mountain roads. Norway invites you to embark on an unforgettable adventure, where nature's beauty and cultural treasures await at every turn.
Getting to Norway
Getting to Norway is relatively easy thanks to its well-connected transportation infrastructure. The primary means of reaching Norway are by air, sea, and land.
By air: Norway is served by several international airports, including Oslo Airport (OSL), Bergen Airport (BGO), and Trondheim Airport (TRD). These airports have direct flights from major cities around the world. Once in Norway, domestic flights and regional airports make it convenient to reach various destinations within the country.
By sea: Norway's extensive coastline is accessible through ferry services and cruise ships. Major ports include Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, and Tromsø. Ferry services connect Norway with neighboring countries such as Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, offering scenic and comfortable travel options.
By land: Norway shares borders with Sweden, Finland, and Russia. If you are traveling from Europe, you can reach Norway by train, bus, or car. The European highway network connects neighboring countries, and trains provide comfortable and scenic journeys. Buses also offer affordable options for travel within Scandinavia.
Once in Norway, the country has an efficient transportation system with trains, buses, and domestic flights connecting major cities and regions. Norway's well-maintained road network allows for self-driving exploration, with stunning routes like the Atlantic Road and the Trollstigen offering breathtaking views.
Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Norway
One alternative stay option is a farm stay, where you can immerse yourself in rural Norwegian life. Many farms offer accommodation, allowing you to experience traditional farming activities, interact with animals, and savor farm-fresh meals. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about sustainable agriculture practices and connect with nature.
For a truly remote experience, consider staying in a wilderness cabin. These cabins are often located in picturesque and secluded areas, providing an ideal setting for peace and tranquility. Some cabins are accessible only by hiking or skiing, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, wildlife spotting, and stargazing in these pristine natural environments.
Another unique experience is staying in a lighthouse or a historic coastal property. Norway's rugged coastline is dotted with charming lighthouses that have been converted into accommodations. These offer breathtaking views, maritime history, and a chance to witness the dramatic coastal landscapes up close.
If you're a nature enthusiast, consider exploring Norway's national parks and nature reserves. These protected areas boast diverse flora and fauna, awe-inspiring landscapes, and opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. From Hardangervidda National Park, known for its expansive plateaus and wild reindeer, to Jotunheimen National Park, home to Norway's highest peaks, there are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.
Furthermore, Norway's lesser-known towns and villages offer a glimpse into authentic Norwegian culture. Places like Røros, a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved wooden buildings, or the coastal town of Ålesund, known for its Art Nouveau architecture, provide a charming and cultural experience away from the crowds.
Top 10 things to do in Norway
- Explore the majestic fjords: Norway is famous for its stunning fjords, such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. Take a boat tour or go hiking to fully appreciate their breathtaking beauty.
- Experience the Northern Lights: Head to Tromsø or other northern regions to witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights across the night sky. It's an unforgettable natural spectacle.
- Visit Bergen's Bryggen Wharf: Discover the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf in Bergen, lined with colorful wooden buildings. Explore its narrow alleyways, shops, and restaurants for a taste of history and local culture.
- Discover the Lofoten Islands: This archipelago offers incredible landscapes with dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages. Go hiking, fishing, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere.
- Explore Oslo's cultural treasures: Visit Oslo, the capital city, and explore its cultural gems. Don't miss the Viking Ship Museum, the fascinating Fram Museum, and the iconic Oslo Opera House.
- Ride the Flåm Railway: Embark on one of the world's most scenic train journeys, the Flåm Railway. Traverse picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and mountain vistas as you travel from Flåm to Myrdal.
- Drive the Atlantic Road: Experience the thrill of driving the Atlantic Road, a winding coastal route connecting small islands with breathtaking views. It's a true engineering marvel.
- Cruise the Geirangerfjord: Take a cruise on the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, known for its sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and the Suitor. The scenery is awe-inspiring.
- Wander through the Vigeland Sculpture Park: Located in Oslo, this unique park showcases the works of renowned sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Admire the intricate sculptures and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
- Go hiking in Trolltunga: Challenge yourself with a hike to Trolltunga, a dramatic rock formation hanging over a cliff. The reward is a panoramic view of the stunning Norwegian landscape.
The climate of Norway
Norway experiences a varied climate due to its long coastline, mountainous terrain, and northern latitude. Generally, the climate can be described as temperate, but with noticeable regional variations.
In the southern coastal areas, including cities like Oslo and Bergen, the climate is relatively mild. Summers are usually pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F), while winters are cool with temperatures averaging around 0°C (32°F). The coastal areas benefit from the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, which moderates the temperatures and brings relatively mild winters compared to other regions at similar latitudes.
Moving inland and towards higher elevations, the climate becomes more continental and colder. In central and eastern parts of Norway, including cities like Trondheim and Oslo, the temperature range is greater, with warmer summers and colder winters. In winter, temperatures can drop well below freezing, while summers see temperatures between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
As you head further north, towards the Arctic Circle and into regions like Tromsø and Kirkenes, the climate becomes subarctic. Winters are long, cold, and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing, while summers are short and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) on average.
Norway also experiences the unique phenomenon of the Midnight Sun in the summer months. Above the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set for several weeks, creating continuous daylight. Conversely, during the winter months, these northern regions experience polar nights, with extended periods of darkness.
Rainfall varies throughout the country, with the western coastal areas receiving more precipitation due to the prevailing westerly winds. The interior and eastern regions are drier, with less rainfall.