8 Best Places to Visit in Norway

Begin your Norwegian adventure amidst the grandeur of the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, traverse the Arctic wonders of the Svalbard islands, immerse yourself in the historical elegance of Trondheim, and soak in the vibrant urban life of Oslo and Bergen. There are so many unique places to visit in Norway that you will want to return again and again.

Here's a curated list of the most iconic destinations from which to start your exploration.

The capital city deserves a spot among the best places to visit in Norway, thanks to its ability to seamlessly blend modernity and cutting-edge facilities with a rich historical heritage. From the striking Oslo Opera House, a contemporary architectural masterpiece rising from the cold waters of the North Sea, to the neoclassic grandeur of the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Norwegian monarch set in the lush landscape of Slottsparken, discover the magnetic energy of the “Tiger City” on an Oslo tour.

Highlights:

• Marvel at the ancient vessels housed at the Viking Ship Museum, a must-see for Viking history lovers.
• Ascend to the medieval Akershus Fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Oslo Fjord.
• Wander through the scenic Vigeland Park, one of the top 10 places to visit in Oslo, adorned with over 200 dramatic human sculptures by Gustav Vigeland.

Insider Tip: Oslo boasts one of Europe’s most efficient public transportation systems, including buses, trams, and ferries. Consider purchasing an Oslo Pass for unlimited travel on public transport and free admission to many of the city's most popular attractions.

Nestled between the majestic fjords and snow-capped mountains of Scandinavia’s Western Coast, Bergen is the second-largest city in Norway after Oslo. Prepare to be captivated by the relaxed, serene atmosphere of this picturesque coastal town, whether you are strolling around the colorful houses of the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, a reminder of the town's importance as part of the Hanseatic League's trading empire, or simply getting lost in the sounds and aromas of the iconic fish market.

Highlights:

• Take the Floibanen funicular railway to admire the city and surrounding fjords from a privileged position.
• Visit the Hanseatic Museum for a glimpse into Bergen's trading past.
• Indulge in rich fiskesuppe (fish soup) and scrumptious raspeballer (a sort of potato dumpling), two iconic dishes of the Vestland region.

Insider's Tip: During a trip to Bergen you will experience milder winters than the rest of the country, making it an ideal year-round destination.

Not far from Bergen in Vestland County is the town of Sogndal. Sognal’s charm lies in its breathtaking landscapes, etched by the majestic Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. The town is a postcard-perfect vision with traditional Norwegian architecture complementing the stunning natural backdrop. Highly suggested are a scenic boat trip to nearby Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its narrow passages and towering cliffs, and a visit to the Utgard Viking Fortress, an ancient strategic outpost overlooking the fjord.

Highlights:

• Discover the wonders of Jostedalsbreen, mainland Europe's largest glacier, located just a stone's throw away from Sogndal.
• Take a day trip to Sogndalstrand, a charming village with cobblestone streets and well-preserved wooden houses.

Insider's Tip: Take advantage of boat trips on the Sognefjord to access nearby villages and attractions.

Located right in the middle of Northern Norway, within the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is widely known as one of the best places to visit in Norway to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the northern lights in winter and the midnight sun in summer. In addition to its obvious natural beauty, the city offers a plethora of cultural and leisure activities for all ages and desires. Art and history lovers will fall in love with the picturesque Tromsø Domkirke, built entirely of wood, and the iconic Arctic Cathedral, with its distinctive structure reminiscent of both the shape of blocks of sea ice colliding with each other, the tip of an iceberg or a Sami tent. Kids and wildlife enthusiasts will love a once-in-a-lifetime experience participating in a whale safari around the city’s fjords.

Highlights:

• Walk across the Tromsø Bridge for stunning views of the city and surrounding Arctic landscapes.
• Tackle the majestic Sherpatrappa (Sherpa Staircase) and reach the outstanding Fjellstua viewpoint.
• Unearth the hidden gems of Tromsø's outskirts by exploring the captivating isles of Senja, Kvaløya, and Sommarøy.

Insider's Tip: A trip to Tromsø offers optimal Northern Lights visibility from September to March. On the other hand, summer months provide extended daylight hours for exploring the outdoors.

On the other end of the country, the quaint city of Stavanger awaits visitors with an enchanting fusion of coastal charm and dynamic urban life. Among pastel-colored houses, antics shops, and winding alleys, Stavanger one of the most unique places to visit in Norway. An example is the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, where you can wear a thermal suit to experience life on an off-shore oil rig or put on a pair of VR goggles to sail straight to the Viking Age in the innovative Viking House. Pair the exploration of the city with an exhilarating hike to Preikestolen, a spectacular cliff hovering above the mesmerizing Lysefjord.

Highlights:

• Stroll through the enchanting streets of Old Stavanger, adorned with white wooden houses that reflect the city's historic nature, and then turn the corner to find the colorful Øvre Holmegate, also known as Fargegata (“colorful street”).
• Relax on the pristine white sand of Solastranden Beach, once named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by the Sunday Times.

Insider's Tip: Stavanger hosts numerous festivals and events each year that celebrate local music, arts, and culture. Among the most popular are the Ranglerok, Maijazz, and Vaulen Open Air festivals, featuring local and international artists such as Jason Derulo and Tom Odell. Check the events calendar to see if any festivals occur during your visit.

As the third-largest city in Norway and the former capital of the country, Trondheim offers a captivating mix of historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and a lively cultural life. Start your exploration of the city by marveling at the Nidaros Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and Norway's national sanctuary, then cross the Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro), which leads to the Bakklandet district, known for its colorful houses and vibrant atmosphere. Other popular attractions are the Kristiansten Fortress, which dominates the city from a hilltop, and the Tyholttårnet, a 124-meter-tall radio tower featuring an iconic revolving restaurant.

Highlights:

• Discover the lively Solsiden neighborhood, a great place for leisurely walks and sampling local cuisine while enjoying the shy rays of the Norwegian sun.
• Take a boat trip to Munkholmen Island, a rich historical site with a monastery, prison, and fortress dating back to the Middle Ages.

Insider's Tip: Trondheim is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts and offers numerous hiking trails, bicycle paths, and water recreation opportunities along the homonymous fjord.

Experience the raw beauty of the Arctic in the Varanger Peninsula, a remote natural area nestled in Norway's northeastern corner. This stretch of land is home to the easternmost town in Norway, Vardø, as well as the Varangerhalvøya National Park, a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. While you are there, don't miss the opportunity to spend an unforgettable night in an ice hotel and learn more about the rich Sami culture of the people who have inhabited this area for centuries.

Highlights:

• Drive along the Varanger National Tourist Route, a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the Arctic coast, fjords, and vast tundra landscapes.
• Explore Hornøya, an island home to one of Norway's largest seabird colonies, including puffins, guillemots, and finches.

Insider's Tip: The peninsula's remote location and minimal light pollution make it one of the best places to visit in Norway for northern lights. Consider planning your stay between late autumn and early spring for the best chances of witnessing this natural spectacle.

The largest and world’s northernmost settlement of the Svalbard Islands offers a unique Arctic experience to all wildlife and adventure lovers. Although the city is home to only about 2,100 permanent residents, its strategic location provides an excellent vantage point for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights during the winter months and for hiking and outings during the summer months. At the same time, the region is famous for its prosperous history of coal mining, evidence of which remains in the form of several abandoned mines that can today be visited under the supervision of expert local guides. Find the list of Longyearbyen tours here.

Highlights:

• Explore the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, a secure seed bank located deep within a mountain, preserving the diversity of plant species worldwide.
• Take a boat trip to Isfjord Radio, an old radio station turned cozy wilderness lodge.
• Embark on an Arctic wilderness tour and enjoy seeing polar bears, walruses, and reindeer in their natural habitats.

Insider's Tip: The easiest and most convenient way to reach this remote region is by air, with the Svalbard Airport serving regular flights from mainland Norway. The most common route is from Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), which takes about three to four hours.

Prepare to fall in love with Norway's poignant beauty as you stroll the vibrant streets of Oslo, breathe in the Arctic wilderness of the Varanger Peninsula, admire the enchanting celestial dance of the Northern Lights, or discover the rich heritage of Sami culture.

Delve into our travel guides to find useful insights about the best time to visit Norway. Customize your trip to Norway by consulting our local travel specialists, who can help you design a personalized itinerary highlighting the best places to visit in Norway.