Iceland and Norway Tours
Iceland and Norway Tours
Gorgeous fjords, forests fit for fairy tales, surreal volcanic landscapes, and hypnotic Northern Lights. Embark on an awesome Nordic adventure with one of our Norway and Iceland tours. On your Iceland trip, venture into the surreal terrain of the Thorsmork Valley, hike across ancient lava fields, and soak in the rejuvenating geothermal hot springs. In Norway, cruise along the majestic Norwegian fjords, witness the thundering waterfalls of Voringsfossen, and explore the vibrant cities of Oslo and Bergen.
Scroll down to see our top Iceland and Norway tours.
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Traveling to Norway Iceland: An Overview
Here’s all the information you need for your Norway and Iceland tour, including the trip highlights, transportation options, and travel tips.
Ways to Get From Norway to Iceland
For combined Iceland and Norway tours, most travelers start in Oslo or other major Norwegian cities, as the country has several international airports and connecting flights from almost all parts of the world. Traveling from Norway to Iceland is possible by air or cruise. The quickest way is by flight, with airlines like Norwegian Air and Icelandair offering direct flights between the two countries, which take around 3 hours.
A cruise trip from Norway to Iceland takes 2-3 days. Several cruise lines operate these scenic voyages, with ships typically departing from ports like Bergen or Alesund.
If you wish to travel overland, you must take car ferries from Norway to the Faroe Islands and then to Iceland. This option allows you to visit the Faroe Islands, but the trip can be long and costly.
Best Time to Visit Iceland and Norway
The best time to visit Norway and Iceland on a combined tour package is during the summer months, spanning from June to August. This period offers mild temperatures, averaging between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F), ideal for exploring the stunning natural landscapes including glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords.
The long daylight hours provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Additionally, this season coincides with the peak of the midnight sun phenomenon in the northern regions.
Winter months from November to March can be harsh, with freezing temperatures and limited daylight, but they offer unique opportunities for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights and engaging in winter sports like dog sledding and skiing.
For more detailed information, check out our articles on the best time to visit Iceland and the best time to visit Norway.
Highlights of Iceland and Norway Trip
- Learn about the volcanic activity in the Thrihnukagigur crater, descending into the depths of this incredible natural wonder as part of your Iceland guided tour.
- Explore the iconic Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, two of Norway's most breathtaking fjords, designated as Unesco World Heritage Sites for their exceptional natural beauty.
- Opt for a Northern Lights tour of Norway's Tromso and Iceland's Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, especially during the winter months.
- Embark on thrilling whale-watching excursions, spotting majestic creatures like humpback whales and orcas in the waters off Iceland's Husavík and Norway's Andfjorden.
- Explore Reykjavik and Oslo, discovering their unique blend of modern architecture, rich cultural heritage, and lively culinary scenes, on your Iceland and Norway sightseeing tour.
- Indulge in the rejuvenating experience of natural hot springs and geothermal pools, soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Iceland's Blue Lagoon and Norway's Kvitåvatn Lake.
- Delight your senses on an Iceland and Norway culinary tour, savoring traditional Icelandic delicacies like hakarl (fermented shark) and kleinur (twisted doughnuts), and Norwegian specialties such as farikal (lamb and cabbage stew) and skillingsboller (cardamom-infused buns).
- Embark on glacier hiking and ice-climbing adventures, navigating the stunning blue ice formations of Iceland's Vatnajökull and Norway's Jostedalsbreen glaciers.
Iceland and Norway Travel Tips
- Pack for diverse weather conditions. Iceland and Norway’s weather can turn in a flash. So ensure you have warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear to accommodate the varying conditions.
- When visiting the northern regions of Iceland and Norway, the 24 hours of sunlight can hinder a good night's sleep for many. So bring an eye mask and earplugs to help you sleep through the bright nights.
- Carry some Icelandic krona and Norwegian krone. While credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, cash is still preferred in remote regions.
- It is important to check trusted sites for live updates on road conditions and weather advisories before heading out for the day in both Iceland and Norway.
At a Glance: Iceland Vs Norway
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FAQs
1. Is Norway colder than Iceland?
No, Norway is generally not colder than Iceland. Iceland has a maritime subarctic climate due to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, while Norway experiences a wider range of climates from subarctic in the north to temperate along the western coast.
2. Which is better to visit? Iceland or Norway?
Both Iceland and Norway are excellent destinations with stunning natural scenery including glaciers and fjords. If you're interested in dramatic landscapes with volcanoes, geothermal areas, and better opportunities to see the Northern Lights, Iceland is an excellent choice. If you prefer milder weather, easier hiking terrain, and more forested landscapes, Norway may be a better fit.
3. Are Iceland and Norway close to each other?
The North European countries of Iceland and Norway are around 1,448 kilometers apart. Norway is a Scandinavian country located along the coastline of the North Sea while Iceland is one of the Nordic island countries located in the North Atlantic Ocean.