Norway

What are the most recommended things to do in Norway?

Explore the world-famous fjords such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.
Visit the Northern Lights in Tromsø or Svalbard during winter.
Take a scenic railway ride on the Flåm Railway.
Hike iconic trails like Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Trolltunga, and Romsdalseggen.
Discover Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum, Opera House, and Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Go on a Hurtigruten coastal cruise to see the dramatic landscapes.
Experience the Midnight Sun above the Arctic Circle in summer.
Try winter sports in Lillehammer or Hemsedal ski resorts.
Explore Lofoten Islands’ fishing villages, beaches, and dramatic peaks.
Enjoy whale watching in Andenes or Vesterålen.

Introducing Norway

The Kingdom of Norway, abbreviated as "Norway," is a long, narrow nation near the Norwegian Sea. Its coastline is lined with fjords, earning it the nickname "The Way to the North." As one of the five Nordic countries, it is located on the western side of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Norway's territory stretches from north to south, with a long, winding coastline and numerous islands, earning it the nickname "The Land of a Thousand Islands." It borders Sweden, Finland, and Russia, and also includes the Svalbard Archipelago and Jan Mayen Island. Its capital is Oslo.

Norway is a highly developed capitalist nation and one of the wealthiest countries in the world. It also boasts one of the highest living standards, the most stable society, the most developed economy, and the highest level of happiness. The 2017 World Happiness Survey ranked Norway as the happiest country in the world, ranking it the world's happiest. Due to its pleasant environment, Norway has been ranked as the most livable country for many consecutive years.

Climate and best time to travel

Best time to travel: June to September

Starting in June, temperatures rise, daylight hours lengthen, vegetation flourishes, and the snow on most mountain roads has melted. The temperatures here are very comfortable, making it a great time for a vacation. July and August are prime sunshine season for Norwegians, and most choose to take vacations during this period.

If you want to experience the Norwegian winter, Oslo is a very good choice. Among the many places in Norway, the temperature here is relatively warm.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Norway has a charming natural landscape. There is Oslo , known as the "Valley of God" , Bergen , known as the "Gateway to the Fjords" , Stavanger , the cultural capital of Europe , and Tromsø, one of the best places to view the aurora borealis .

Norway is also renowned for its fjords, earning it the nickname "Fjord Country." From the Varangerfjord in the north to the Oslofjord in the south, these endless winding fjords and countless glacial remains create a magnificent and exquisite fjord landscape. While Norway's western coast boasts numerous fjords, the four most famous are Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord, and Lysefjord.

Recommended number of days for visiting: about 10 days

Most Popular FAQs for Norway

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Norway has a rich Viking heritage, with a history rooted in seafaring, exploration, and trading. It transitioned from Viking kingdoms to a unified nation in the Middle Ages, later joining unions with Denmark and Sweden before achieving independence in 1905. Today, it’s known for its democratic society, natural landscapes, and maritime culture. The fjords, stave churches, and Viking sites are globally significant as part of UNESCO’s heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Norway is located in Northern Europe, on the western part of the Scandinavian Peninsula.
Major entry points include Oslo Airport (OSL), Bergen Airport (BGO), and Tromsø Airport (TOS).
Public transport is excellent: trains connect major cities, buses reach remote villages, and ferries link fjords and islands.
Taxis are widely available in cities, though expensive, while walking is ideal for compact towns like Bergen.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Best times: May–September for hiking, fjords, and Midnight Sun; December–March for skiing and Northern Lights.
Norwegian attractions generally open from 10:00–18:00, but fjords and natural landscapes are accessible year-round.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

National parks and natural fjords are free to access.
Museums (e.g., Viking Ship Museum, Munch Museum) typically cost NOK 100–200 (~10–20 USD).
Tickets can be purchased online via official websites or at ticket counters.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for popular hikes like Trolltunga shuttle buses, Hurtigruten cruises, and Northern Lights tours.
Museums and city attractions generally don’t require advance reservations, except during peak summer.

Are there any free entry days or discounts (students, seniors, children)?

Yes, many museums and cultural sites offer free entry on certain days or discounts for students, seniors, and children. Oslo Pass also provides free entry to multiple attractions.

What documents are required (ID, passport, vaccination, etc.)?

Valid passport (Schengen visa required for some nationalities).
EU/EEA citizens can enter with a national ID card.
No vaccination requirements, but travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Is the attraction open all year round or closed on certain days/holidays?

Nature (fjords, mountains) is open year-round.
Museums may close on major holidays (Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day, May 17th – Constitution Day).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Oslo: 2–3 days
Bergen and Fjords: 3–5 days
Lofoten Islands: 4–7 days
Whole country road trip: 2–3 weeks

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Fjords: Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord
Cities: Oslo Opera House, Bergen Bryggen Wharf
Nature: Northern Lights (Tromsø), Midnight Sun (Lofoten)
Hiking: Pulpit Rock, Trolltunga

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are widely available in English, Norwegian, and often German, French, Spanish, and Chinese. Audio guides are common in major museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) overlooking Lysefjord
Trolltunga cliff
Fløibanen funicular in Bergen
Reine in Lofoten Islands
Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø under Northern Lights

Are there restrictions (bags, cameras, drones, tripods, dress code)?

Drones often require permits in national parks.
Tripods are allowed outdoors but may be restricted in museums.
No strict dress code, but warm layered clothing is essential.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Southern loop: Oslo – Bergen – Stavanger
Northern loop: Tromsø – Lofoten – Nordkapp
Classic fjord route: Bergen – Flåm – Geiranger

Can I re-enter with the same ticket?

Most museums allow same-day re-entry with the ticket; natural sites don’t require tickets.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Northern Lights safaris in winter nights.
Midnight Sun tours in Arctic Norway during summer.
Occasional night concerts and cultural shows in Oslo and Bergen.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Fjords and hiking trails are busiest in July–August.
Visit in May–June or September for fewer crowds and good weather.
Winter is quiet except during Christmas and ski season.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Cities and major attractions have full facilities. Remote hiking trails may lack toilets and food, so visitors should bring supplies.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Cities, museums, and fjord cruises are accessible. Some mountain hikes are challenging and not suitable for the elderly or very young children.

Are baby strollers or wheelchairs allowed/provided?

Yes, in urban areas and museums. Hiking trails are generally not stroller/wheelchair accessible.

Are there cloakrooms or lockers for bags?

Yes, available in museums, train stations, and airports.

Is there Wi-Fi inside?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is common in cities, museums, and hotels. Rural areas may have limited coverage.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted. Cash is rarely needed.

Are there ATMs nearby?

Yes, ATMs are available in all towns and cities, but less common in remote villages.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Oslo: Mathallen food hall, Lofoten Fiskerestaurant.
Bergen: Bryggeloftet & Stuene, Fish Market eateries.
Lofoten: Anita’s Seafood.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, major cities offer vegetarian, vegan, and some halal options, though rural areas may have limited choices.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Luxury: The Thief (Oslo), Hotel Norge (Bergen).
Mid-range: Scandic hotels across Norway.
Budget: Hostels, Airbnb, and cabins.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

From Oslo: Akershus Fortress, Holmenkollen Ski Jump.
From Bergen: Flåm Railway, Hardangerfjord.
From Tromsø: Lyngen Alps, whale watching.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include Viking replicas, wool sweaters, trolls, reindeer hides, and Norwegian chocolates.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Domestic flights for long distances.
Scenic railways (Oslo–Bergen line).
Car rentals for fjords and countryside.
Ferries for island and coastal travel.

What cultural etiquette or rules should I be aware of?

Respect nature (leave no trace).
Punctuality is valued.
Norwegians enjoy personal space and quietness.

Are there dress codes or behaviors to avoid (e.g., no touching relics)?

No strict dress codes, but warm and waterproof clothing is recommended. In museums, avoid touching exhibits.

Are there ceremonies, performances, or seasonal events held here?

May 17th Constitution Day parades.
Bergen International Festival (music, culture).
Northern Lights festivals in Tromsø.

What are the local legends, stories, or fun facts about this place?

Troll folklore is widespread, often linked to mountains and rocks.
Norway is said to have inspired Disney’s Frozen landscapes.

What movies, books, or famous people are connected to this place?

Frozen (inspired by Norway’s fjords and stave churches).
Books of Henrik Ibsen (Norwegian playwright).
Famous Norwegians: Edvard Munch (artist), Roald Amundsen (polar explorer).

How does this site reflect the local culture or history?

Norway’s landscapes and fjords symbolize its Viking seafaring heritage and deep connection to nature. Its architecture, folk tales, and festivals reflect a culture built around resilience and outdoor life.