What to see in Norway: cities, regions, attractions and recommended itineraries

Norway is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Nature reigns supreme with its fjords dotted with picturesque villages overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where whales can be spotted. Not only that, here lovers of outdoor activities are spoiled for choice between excursions, trekking, and snowmobile trips. In addition, traditions rooted in millennia of history live in the country and the magic of Viking history can be felt almost everywhere. Without forgetting that this is the perfect place to spot the midnight sun in June and the Northern Lights in winter !
Therefore, if you are thinking of a trip to this country, here is a lot of useful information to better plan your holidays. Let ‘s find out what to see in Norway : cities, regions, attractions and recommended itineraries!

The main cities of Norway
In Norway there are many towns and villages worth visiting and often they are also the starting point for various excursions and trips in the surrounding area. Here are the main locations

1 – Oslo
Nestled between the mountains and the sea and surrounded by woods, lakes and hills, the Norwegian capital Oslo, with a population of over 650,000, is a colorful, fun and well-kept city.
Among the quietest European cities in the world, 3 days will be enough to get to know it as the main attractions are located in the historic center. Then you can dedicate ourselves to exploring its beautiful surroundings, including fjords and nature reserves. A must is definitely the cruise through the fjords.
It is a city for every type of traveler : especially suitable for those who love nightlife and sophisticated clubs, ideal for lovers of art and architecture and in any case also perfect for those with children.

SEE ALSO : What to see in Oslo

2 – Bergen
Considered one of the most beautiful port cities in Norway, inhabited by about 279,000 people, Bergen is surrounded by 7 hills and 7 fjords that make it fascinating and bewitching.
Characterized by fairytale log cabins, a medieval Hanseatic harbor and 60 historic buildings, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
Ideal for families with children looking for a place surrounded by nature, but also for those who love fresh fish, museums and galleries and those who want some nightlife, Bergen is a must see .
Here, too, one of the must-sees is a cruise along the Mostraumen strait, considered one of the most beautiful and scenic fjords in Norway. Among the recommended excursions, certainly that to the Hardangerfjord and the Troll’s Tongue, a sheer offshoot of rock 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, about 40 minutes from Bergen.

SEE ALSO : What to see in Bergen

3 – Tromso
Located on the Tromshalvoya peninsula, 400 km from the Arctic Circle, Tromso, inhabited by about 72,000 people, is the largest city in northern Norway , full of charm.
Surrounded by fjords and snow capped mountains for most of the year, it was once an important center for fishing, seal hunting and was thestarting point for polar expeditions .
It is the perfect destination both in summer and in winter : in fact, most of the Northern Lights Tours depart from here, tours to admire the Aurora Borealis and the Northern Lights. In this sense, the best time is from January to March for Aurora Borealis and snow activities. In June we witness the midnight sun and the Midnight Sun Marathon is organized.
Other recommended experiences are husky or reindeer sledding expeditions and whale watching in the Arctic seas.

4 – Andenes
More than a city, Andenes is a village of 2,178 people on the Andoya peninsula, characterized by a cluster of scattered houses,famous mainly for fishing and for the various excursions that can be done.
This location is the starting point for several wonderful excursions: for whale-watching (whale watching), for winter trekking on the frozen lake of Bleik, for the sighting of the auroras and for summer kayaking trips. In this sense, the best period is February and March for aurora sighting and excursions on the snow, summer for trekking and whale watching.
The village is characterized by a small harbor, a lighthouse from which to admire the magnificent panorama, a few shops and a museum.

5 – Bodo
Bodo is a town at the northern end of the wonderful Kystriksveien Coast, along the Arctic road andrepresents the entrance to the northern part of the country.
The town, which has 50,000 inhabitants, itself is not particularly attractive but its charm is represented by the nature that surrounds it , such as rugged mountains and numerous surrounding islands inhabited by the largest colony of sea eagles. It offers the possibility to do many fun activities both on the water and a few meters above the sea level.

6 – Alesund
In the central southern part of Norway, located on a peninsula in the shape of a hook, is the port town of Alesund which has about 48,000 inhabitants.
Renowned for art-nouveau, it is also the place where mountains and fjords meet the ocean, and these characteristics make it one of the most visited Norwegian destinations.
The historic center has several museums and attractions and the surroundings are ideal for nature excursions, walking and trekking.

7 – Stavanger
An ideal location for families, young people and couples, the city of Stavanger located in Fjord Norway is one of the largest in the country , inhabited by about 123,000 people.
Characterized by wooden houses, long, white beaches and breathtaking coves, it has a small center with narrow streets framed by pastel-colored houses.
Usually this town serves as a starting point for day trips, like the one on foot to Preikestolen, via an incredible path to the Pulpit Rock overlooking the Lysefjorden.

8 – Longyearbyen
Gateway to discover the magical world of Svalbard, Longyearbyen is the only inhabited center in this region, although with a population of no more than 2,100 people.
This town, despite being dominated by two important glaciers, does not have much to see, but it represents the starting point for exploring the surrounding nature and the unspoiled nature that reigns in this area.
After visiting the main museums of the city and the brewery, we suggest you take part in birdwatching excursions, trips on icebreakers, sightings of polar bears and walruses and tours on snowmobiles. The best time is January and February to experience the long polar night and witness the Northern Lights. From June to August to experience the endless days and make many excursions.
But be careful, this is not the place for everyone but it is only for those who love adventure and are not scared when faced with nothing.

SEE ALSO : Svalbard Islands, Arctic: where they are, when to go and what to see

9 – Trondheim
Considered one of the most photographed towns in Norway, in the central south of the country, Trondheim is located on the fjord of the same name and is the third largest city with 190,400 inhabitants.
Characterized by a pedestrian center full of cafes and restaurants, it also has a very busy port, beautiful museums to visit and ideal surroundings for excursions and outings in the midst of nature. Furthermore, from the end of September to the end of March you can admire the beautiful Northern Lights.
Ideal for a holiday alone, as a couple or with the family, various events take place here throughout the year to enliven the atmosphere.

10 – Svolvaer
Port town that serves as an access for those who want to discover the Lofoten islands, Svolvaer which has 4,590 inhabitants, and one of the largest islands of the archipelagoas well as the only lively center of this area.
Surrounded by high mountains and overlooking the sea, its center is however characterized by tall buildings that spoil the atmosphere a little.
However this village is one of the oldest in Europe and represents the starting point for visiting the surroundings such as the long and beautiful beach of Haukland beach, the small harbor of Henningsvaer and for excursions to spot sea eagles.
The best time is February and March to spot the auroras and discover the snow-capped Lofoten, in March there is also the World Cod Fishing Championship. Summer is the right time to go on excursions and activities such as climbing and walking

One of the major attractions of the area are certainly the Lofoten Islands, an archipelago where nature is the mistress, where you can discover the small characteristic villages and reach the different islands by kayak!

SEE ALSO : Lofoten Islands, Norway: where to find, when to go and what to see

11 things to see: Norway’s most important sights
Geirangerfjord

Bryggen, Bergen’s oldest district

North Cape plateau with its cliff overlooking the sea

Aurlandsfjord fjord, a branch of the Sognefjord

Besseggen and Hurrungane trails

Lysefjord with the Preikestolen viewpoint

Excursions between icebergs and glaciers in the Svalbard islands

The whales to admire on an excursion between the Vesteralen islands

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1. Lofoten Islands , starting from Svolvaer and taking the E10 you will find the wonderful beaches of Haukland Beach, Vakstad and Vikten and picturesque villages such as Henningsvaer and Strovagen
2. The Geirangerfjord , to be admired sitting on a ferry departing from the port of Geiranger or Hellesylt
3. Bryggen , the oldest district of Bergen and a World Heritage Site and Kode, 4 art galleries in the city that house important collections and exhibitions
4. North Cape Plateau with its cliff overlooking the sea that rises 307 meters high and the North Cape visitor center, Nordkapphallen which hosts various exhibitions all year round
5. Aurlandsfjord fjord , a branch of the Sognefjord. In particular, to see the innermost part to be crossed on board the train
6. Besseggen and Hurrungane trails belonging to Jotunheimen NP to admire glaciers and spectacular peaks
7. Lysefjord with the Preikestolen viewpoint, starting from Stavanger on a walking excursion
8. Oslo , with the Nasjionalgalleriet, where the “Scream of Munch” is located, and the Akershus Festning, a beautiful fortress overlooking the harbor
9. Excursions among icebergs , glaciers, polar bears and walruses aboard boats and snowmobiles between the Svalbard Islands
10. Karasjok , Sami locality where the Sami parliament and the museum that houses a large collection that allows you to learn about the culture of this people are worth a visit
11. The whales to admire on an excursion between the Vesteralen islands aboard rubber dinghies or boats that depart from the port of Andenes

The main itineraries in Norway
Since Norway is quite large and the journeys, by sea or land, are long, those who decide to travel to this country will have to decide the area to visit , also based on the days available. Below we suggest some possible itineraries:

1. North-central coast and islands : a 14-day itinerary that starts from Trondheim, in the center of the coast, and ends in Narvik. In between, various stops to discover Rorvik, Bronnoysund, the Saltfjellet-Svartisen NP with beautiful glaciers, Bodo, the Lofoten islands, the Vesteralen islands and finally Narvik
2. Best of the fjords : A two-week winding journey through the fjords with a detour into the Norwegian mountains by car. From Stavanger visit Lysefjord and Preikestolen, then reach The Hardangerfjord, stopping in the villages of Utne and Eidfjord. Continue north stopping in Aurland, Solvorn and divert to the mountains of Jotunheimen NP Finally head towards the Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen to finish in Alesund
3. Norway in brief : an itinerary for those who have only 7 days available and want to see the best of the country.After spending a couple of days in Oslo, aboard the Oslo-Bergen train route, reach and stop in the following locations: Hardangervidda , the beautiful plateau with several hiking trails, and Myrdal. From here, take the Flam line train via Gudvangen, Stalheim and Voss. Finally, always by train, reach Bergen and discover the most picturesque port in the country
4. The great north : a 14-day itinerary with air travel to discover the most remote regions, which have always been destinations for explorers and lovers of boundless horizons. Starting from Tromso, after visiting it, we recommend that you move to Senja and the North Cape. Then take a few days to discover the interior and the Sami villages of Karasjok and Kautokeino. Back in Tromso aboard a plane you will reach Svalbard where we recommend staying 5 days, the ideal time to go on excursions by snowmobile and boat, admire glaciers and icebergs and spot bears and walruses.

The main tourist regions
Norway is a rather large country . The distances are enormous, the roads are not always fast-flowing and given the particular geography of the territory it is important to know the various tourist regions well if you decide to plan a trip to this country.
Here is a subdivision of Norway by zones, with all the information to reach them and to explore them using public transport or a rental car:

1 – Oslo and Eastern
Norway Eastern Norway is noteworthy especially because here is the capital Oslo, a city overlooking the sea and framed by the mountainswhere there is no shortage of splendid museums, art galleries and trendy clubs that make it one of the most cultured and lively Nordic capitals. In this part of the country, the county of Hedmark is
absolutely worth a visit , northeast of Oslo with large valleys, rivers and forests, while to the south, Oslofjord with forests and bucolic fields and the Skagerrak strait dotted with picturesque villages are not to be missed.

• Citta principali : Oslo (capoluogo e capitale), Skien, Fredrikstad, Lillehammer, Hamar
• Highlights : Oslo Old Town, Hvaler Islands, Drobak Village, Fredrikstad Fortress, Halden Fortress, Olympian Lillehammer Town
• Best time: summer, with longer days, many hours of light and temperatures between 20/25 °. For winter and ski activities from December to March. In December Oslo comes alive with the Christmas markets that illuminate the city

2 – Central Norway
Although not very touristy, this part of Norway, also known as Trondelag , gives those who decide to visit it unforgettable emotions.
Not very wide, it includes two very characteristic destinations: Roros , a mining city that is a World Heritage Site, and Trondheim , a city located on the fjord of the same name that offers wonderful views and is home to some of the most popular attractions of Trondelag.
But the surprises it reserves do not end here because central Norway is characterized by a wonderful nature , made up of lakes, woods and some beautiful wooden churches.

• Citta principali : Trondheim (capoluogo), Roros, Kristiansund, Oppdal, Otta
• Main attractions : mining town of Roros, spectacular road named “Sognefjellet”, Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella NP, Trondheim, island of Leka port town of Kristiansund, island of Vega, Atlantic road between Kristiansund and Molde
• Best time: summer when the hours of light are endless and temperatures with a minimum of 16 ° and a maximum of 24 °. In addition, numerous festivals and events take place during this period.

3 – Northern Norway
Spectacle of extraordinary beauty that leaves anyone speechless at any time of the year, the north of Norway and the region of the midnight sun is the ideal area for spotting the Northern Lights .
It is not only the place that preserves the ancient Lappish traditions and of the Sami people and here there are numerous fairytale villages. Finally, in Northern Norway, there is the famous archipelago of the Lofoten Islands and that of the Vesteralen Islands, as well as towns that serve as a base for numerous excursions.

• Citta principali : Tromso (capoluogo), Bodo, Hammerfest, Kirkenes, Karasjok, Alta
• Highlights : Town of Alta and Karasjok and Kautokeino to learn about Sami culture, North Cape, Narvik surroundings, Harstad, Lofoten islands, Vesteralen islands, Tromso, Senja coast, sleigh ride to Ovre Dividal NP, Lakselv
• Best time : winter to spot the Northern Lights and the enchanted atmosphere of the landscapes shrouded in snow and darkness. Summer to spot the midnight sun and enjoy nature excursions (comfortable temperatures, min16 °, max 24 °)

4 – Southern Norway
Characterized by a pleasant climate and stunning nature with lakes, waterfalls and forests, southern Norway is ideal for a summer vacation .
The south coast is very indented, it develops between the Oslofjord and the city of Haugesund, and is characterized by a succession of beaches and small quiet islands .
The interior, on the other hand, is occupied by a luxuriant nature. There is no shortage of characteristic towns and villages ideal for spending a few days in total relaxation.

• Citta principali : Kristiansand (capoluogo), Stavanger, Haugesund, Risor, Lillesand, Kongsberg
• Highlights : Stavanger town, Lysefjord boat or trek, Ryfylkevegen scenic route, Tou old mill, Preikestolen, Kristiansand, Kjeragbolten, Haugesund, Hardangervidda plateau, Telemark canals
• Best time: summer, with long days and temperatures between 18 ° and 26 °. February and March, on the other hand, are the perfect months for ice climbing, dog sledding and mountain skiing.

5 – Bergen and the western fjords
This part of Norway is the tourist heart of the country where in addition to the wonderful Bergen, a UNESCO heritage site, there are the splendid fjords, the undisputed treasure of the nation.
Nature reigns supreme , the mountains plunge into the ocean from hundreds of meters and here is the Sognefjord, the second longest fjord in the world.
In this area a cruise is almost a must to explore the most suggestive coves and discover the most popular ports.

SEE ALSO : Bergen and Fjords: what they are and how to visit them

• Main cities : Bergen (capital), Floro, Alesund, Kristiansund, Voss, Molde,
• Highlights : Bergen, Voss, Geirangerfjord boat trip, Trollstigen, “Loen Skylift” cable car, Flamsbana railway, “Atlanter- havsveien” road, Stegastein, Alesund, Borgund Stavkirke, Ona islet
• Best time: summer, with long days of light and temperatures between 20/26 °. In July there is a folk festival in Andalsnes and the Moldejazz in the town of Molde. In August Alesund celebrates a food festival.

6 – Svalbard Islands
Photo of patano. Remote islands in the Arctic Ocean, the Svalbard Islands, thanks to the proximity to the North Pole, are land of polar bears and walruses, characterized by majestic glaciers and immense icebergs floating in the blue water.
This postcard place is ideal for those who love nature and open spaces and for those who in winter want to experience the long arctic nights, illuminated by some aurora or enjoy summer days where the sun never sets.

SEE ALSO : Svalbard Islands Cruise, Norway: when to go, prices and itinerary

• Main cities : Longyearbyen (capital), Barentsburg, Ny Alesund, Sveagruva
• Highlights : Glacier walking in Longyearbyen, walrus spotting on Prins Karls Forlandet Island, cruise to Pyramiden, Ny Alesund, Russian village of Barentsburg, circumnavigating the islands by boat, Longyearbyen
• Best time: December to February to experience the long polar night, attend the jazz festival and spot the northern lights; from February to April to celebrate the return of light; June-August to be able to do many excursions and activities

Where is it
Norway is the northernmost state in Europe and occupies the westernmost part of the Scandinavian Peninsula; crossed by the Arctic Circle and one of the areas where it is possible to spot the famous phenomena of the Northern Lights and the midnight sun.
It borders Sweden to the east and Finland and Russia to the north-east, while the Skagerrak separates it from Denmark to the south. Finally, the Norwegian coasts characterized by the typical fjords overlook the Atlantic Ocean and the Barents Sea.

Best time to travel
The best time to go to Norway depends on the activities and things you want to see.
In generalsummer is the best time if you want to discover the fjords , Oslo and the Lofoten Islands, however do take into account the rains that can be frequent. But this is also the season to witness the phenomenon of the midnight sun and ideal to participate in the numerous festivals.
To practice winter sports or to admire the Northern Lights, the best months are between February and March , when the temperature is a little less rigid and the days longer. However, the Norwegian winter certainly has an undisputed charm, characterized by the absence of light that makes the landscape magical.

1. South Eastern Region (Oslo) : from June to August, when temperatures can reach up to 25 °. The worst time is autumn and winter with abundant rainfall and cold temperatures
2. Inland regions (Lapland border) : in summer, from June to August, when the light days are long and the temperatures mild. Winter is excessively harsh and makes any movement difficult, temperatures can even reach -40 °
3. Northern coast (Tromso and Svalbard) : in summer, to make numerous excursions and enjoy the long days of light. Winter is recommended for the Northern Lights. Autumn not recommended, as it is very rainy and humid
4. West coast (Bergen) : in summer, from June to August, being the least cold season. The less suitable periods are autumn and winter as it rains a lot and there is little to do and see.

Travel informed: useful information

• Inhabitants : 5.368 million
• Capital : Oslo
• Languages : Norwegian, English
• Local currency : Norwegian krone (NOK) / € 1.00 = NOK 11.51
• Climate : varies according to the area. Along the coasts, the gulf currents make winters cold but not icy (-5 / 3 °) and mild summers (9 ° / 16 °). The coldest region is the one that occupies the internal parts, where winters are freezing (-21 / -10 °) and summers are mild (8/16 °). Precipitation is snowy in winter while rains are frequent in spring and autumn
• Distance from Italy : 2.625 Km (3 hours and 10 min.)
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What to do in Norway: activities, excursions and tours

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