Norway, the Land of Fjords and Northern Lights – Complete Travel Guide – 2024

Norway at a Glance

Norway is one of the Scandinavian countries situated in the Northern Europe and is widely famous for its glorious scenery, with its rugged fjords, towering mountains, and vast areas of unspoiled wilderness. This Scandinavian country is as historic as they come and as modern as today: the country is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world and a wealth of cultural landmarks to explore. Regardless if you are an adrenaline junky who wants to go explore steep mountains or if you are more of the quiet type that just wants to relax deep in the nature – there is something for everyone in Norway.

Why Visit Norway?

Breathtaking Natural Wonders

Norway is world-renowned for its stunning natural attractions, from the iconic fjords to the mystical Northern Lights.

• Geirangerfjord: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous fjords in the world, known for its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and deep blue waters.
• Trolltunga: A dramatic rock formation jutting out over a 700-meter drop, offering one of the most photographed viewpoints in Norway.
• Lofoten Islands: A rugged archipelago above the Arctic Circle, famous for its sharp peaks, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages.
• Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Visible from late autumn to early spring, the Northern Lights are a bucket-list experience, best viewed in northern Norway around Troms and the Svalbard archipelago.

Captivating Cities and Historic Sites

Norway’s cities are a blend of modern architecture, historical landmarks, and unique cultural experiences.

• Oslo: As the state capital, this city prides on it green areas, museum, and beautiful water frontage. Key attractions include:
  • The Royal Palace: The royal palace of Norway and a symbol of the nation’s entire royal household.
  • Vigeland Park: An open air bronze and granite sculpture garden containing over two hundred sculptures created by a single artist worldwide.
• Bergen: Cstad by the coast with plenty of colorful wooden houses is also called the Gateway to the Fjords and is famous for active art scene. Highlights include:
  • Bryggen: An example of a well preserved Hanseatic commercial buildings it is located on the old wharf and it was established in the 14th century.
  • Mount Fløyen: Located on a mount that is accessible by funicular which provides wonderful view of the city and the fjords.
• Trondheim: Originally founded as a Viking capital, Trondheim remains today the most significant religious centre in Norway:
  • Nidaros Cathedral: This beautiful Gothic building is the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world and has been a place of worship and pilgrimage long time ago.
• Gamle Bybro: A beautiful old bridge that any touristic would wish to take great shots of wooden houses of the city beside the river.

Norway’s Deep Cultural and Historical Legacy

Norway’s history is steeped in Viking tradition, maritime exploration, and royal heritage, evident in its museums and historical landmarks.

• The Viking Ship Museum (Oslo): Houses some of the best-preserved Viking ships ever discovered, showcasing Norway’s seafaring past.
• Heddal Stave Church: Norway is famous for its wooden stave churches, and Heddal is the largest, offering a glimpse into medieval Norwegian craftsmanship and religion.
• Røros: A UNESCO-listed town with well-preserved wooden buildings from the 17th century, known for its copper mining heritage.

Iconic Norwegian Landscapes

Norway’s landscapes are among the most awe-inspiring in the world, from snow-capped peaks to serene fjords.

• Sognefjord: The longest fjord in Norway which is more than 200 km long, with canoes and hiking paths to research for many days.
• Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): Standing 604 metres tall, is Lysefjord Pulpit, a flat cliff extending horizontally with a sheer drop to the fjord.
• Jotunheimen National Park: Famous as the ‘Home of the Giants’ this park is a walkers dream come true, with mountains and glaciers of Norway’s highest standards.
• Senja Island: Due to the stunning variety of the views that can be observed in the island’s area, it is often referred to as a miniature version of this country: Senja has everything from sharp rocks to calm bays.

Outdoor Adventures in Norway

Norway is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering a wide range of activities that take full advantage of its natural beauty.

• Hiking: With thousands of kilometers of marked trails,this country can really be considered a hiker’s paradise. Some of the most famous ones are the Bessingen Ridge in Jotunheimen and the hike to Kjeragbolten where a mountainous rock is embedded in huge cliffs.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: The country has some amazing skiing resorts like Trysil and Hemsedal that has been known to attract skiers of all ages with it sometimes, snowy slopes. Skiing is also an annual sport; most famous is the cross country skiing that is done on the Hardangervidda Plateu.
• Wildlife Safaris: Wildlife is equally distributed throughout Norway with musk ox observing in Dovrefjell National Park and polar bear in Svalbard. The northern coast of the island is also visited for whale watching.
• Fjord Cruises: A popular activity when visiting this country is taking a boat on a cruise where you get a close look at the beauty of the fjords such as Nærøyfjord or Hardangerfjord.

Norwegian Cuisine

Norwegian cuisine is a delightful combination of traditional and modern dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

• Rømmegrøt: A hot breakfast dish prepared with sour cream, milk and flour widely taken with sugar, cinnamon and butter.
• Rakfisk: Delicate combination of flavors in this dish: plump fermented trout, flat bread,a and sour cream, typical for Norwegian cuisine of Norway.
• Lutefisk: A boiled dish made specially from dried fish that has been soaked in lye, normally served with mashed potatoes, bacon and mustard.
• Kjøttkaker: Meat patties with boiled mashed peas, mashed potatoes and brown sauce – the true symbols of Fulbourn comfort.
• Norwegian Salmon: Renowned for its tenderness, Norwegian salmon can be prepared as an appetizer smoked or cured as gravlaks.

How to Visit Norway (Flight Options and Airports)

• Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL): Located near Oslo; the biggest international airport in this country.
• Bergen Airport (BGO): An important gateway for those wishing to visit the fjords and western Norway and with flights connections from many European cities.
• Tromsø Airport (TOS): It is one of the most widely used way to get to northern Norway and the Arctic.

Best Time to Travel to Norway

• Summer (June to August): The best time to visit for hiking, fjord cruises, and outdoor activities. The long daylight hours of the Midnight Sun make it perfect for exploring.
• Winter (December to February): Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and witnessing the Northern Lights. The winter months offer a magical atmosphere with snow-covered landscapes.
• Autumn (September to November): A great time for scenic drives and hikes, with the added beauty of fall foliage.
• Spring (April to May): Experience the blooming of wildflowers and the melting snow revealing stunning waterfalls.

Visas and Entry Requirements for Norway

• Schengen Visa: As a member of the Schengen Agreement, Norway allows visa-free entry for citizens of many countries for up to 90 days.
• Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Required for visitors from some non-Schengen countries.

Budgeting Your Trip to Norway

• Accommodation: this country offers a range of options, from budget hostels (starting at €30 per night) to luxury hotels (upwards of €200). Cabins in rural areas are a unique and often affordable way to stay.
• Dining: this country is known for being expensive, but budget travelers can still enjoy meals at cafes and food markets, with prices ranging from €10 to €20 for casual dining. Fine dining can cost €50 or more.
• Transportation: Norway’s extensive train and bus network is a scenic and efficient way to travel. Domestic flights are also popular, especially for long distances. Car rentals are ideal for exploring remote areas.

Practical Information for Your Trip to Norway

• Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
• Language: Norwegian, but English is widely spoken.
• Transportation: Norway’s public transport is highly efficient, with trains, buses, and ferries connecting most regions. Car rentals are common for road trips along the coast and into the mountains.
• Staying Connected: Wi-Fi is widely available, and SIM cards with data can be easily purchased for those needing reliable internet on the go.

Conclusion

Norway is a country of contrasts, where the rugged beauty of its wilderness meets the refined elegance of its cities. Whether you’re sailing through the majestic fjords, hiking up dramatic cliffs, or marveling at the Northern Lights, Norway offers unforgettable experiences at every turn. With its warm hospitality, rich history, and vibrant culture, this Scandinavian gem is a must-visit for any traveler seeking adventure and serenity alike.