Take in a deep, juicy breath of fresh air while thinking of lush greenery and glass turquoise water. Now slowly exhale. That’s kind of what Norway feels like.
Unlike any other destination, the Nordic nation boasts unaffected natural beauty, with vast mountains, glaciers and fjords harmoniously weaving through the landscape together.
Shaped much like a tadpole, Norway lies on the outer edge of northern Europe, nestled up alongside it’s Scandinavian neighbour, Sweden.
You can travel to Norway by plane, train, boat or car and should allow at least 5 days to explore. Definitely stay for a little more if you have the time – say 10 days – to really immerse yourself in the country’s unique beauty.
To help you along your way, consider this your official Norway cheat-sheet and enjoy these 10 awe-inspiring things to do and see in Norway.
10 things to do & see in Norway
1 · Explore Bergen
As Norway’s second largest city (following the capital of Oslo), Bergen is known affectionately as ‘the heart of the fjords’. It’s an incredibly clean and charming city that sits snug between tumbling hillsides and some of the country’s most idyllic fjords.
Bergen is nestled beneath seven mountains, which means there’s an overwhelming view every time you look up. To get a vantage point looking down on the village-like city, a quick six minute train ride will see you at the top of Mount Floyen, one of the most accessible summits. Want to savour the view a little more? Opt for a cable car ride instead and head up the region’s highest peak, Ulriken.
Before you leave make sure to visit The Hanseatic Wharf in Bryggen, a beloved Bergen treasure and UNESCO World Heritage site that no doubt you’ve seen on Instagram or Pinterest.
2 · Soak in The Sognefjord
The Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, stretching 204kms inland, and honestly it’s beyond breathtaking.
Arguably one of the most picturesque locations in Norway, the glistening waters of the Sognefjord can be explored by boat and kayak. For the best view in the house, pencil in a hike up to Molden, the Sogn area’s finest viewpoint. It’s a little challenging and will take about 2 hours for the round-trip, but it’s so worth it, trust us.
For the less experienced hiker, take a journey to the base of Vettisfossen, Europe’s tallest free-falling waterfall.
3 · Hike to Trolltunga at The Hardangerfjord
Get set for another out-of-this-world panorama view with Norway’s second longest fjord, the Hardangerfjord.
Here you’ll find the famous rock formation, Trolltunga, where a spectacular plateau soars 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The most-travelled route to ‘the troll’s tongue’ is a 28km path that takes between 8 and 12 hours to complete. If you’re not confident hiking alone, there’s a number of guided tours you can join.
Once you’re all hiked-out, unwind with some of the world’s best cider made from locally-grown apples, pears, plums, and cherries. Norway’s unique climate creates the perfect conditions for growing these particular fruits, and come on, it’d be rude not to try a glass or two.
4 · Gaze upon The Geirangerfjord
Hopefully by now you’ve figured out that Norway is home to countless mouth-dropping fjords, and the Geirangerfjord is no exception.
To picture Norway’s most famous fjord, think lush greenery, snow-capped peaks and surging waterfalls (we’re looking at you, the Seven Sisters).
Take in the view from Geiranger Village or marvel from above with the Geiranger Skywalk in Dalsnibba.
5 · Be amazed by the Lofoten Islands
For me, the visual of Lofoten is basically what comes to mind when I think of Norway. Crystal waters, colourful fishing villages and rough-edged peaks put this archipelago on the must-visit list.
Known also for being one of the best places to experience the northern lights and midnight sun (where the sun doesn’t set), the Lofoten Islands is an arctic heaven. To make sure you’ve got your timing down pat, your best bet at seeing the otherworldly aurora borealis (northern lights) is between October and March, meanwhile enjoy the bizarre experience of sunlight 24-hours-a-day between April and August. September is just business as usual.
6 · Take in the views from a train
It’s not something you typically associate with the nation of natural wonder, but Norway is home to some of the world’s most beautiful train journeys.
Funnily enough, this one of the most peaceful and enjoyable Norwegian experiences, with the Nordland Line and Bergen Line in particular providing more than just a ride from ‘a’ to ‘b’.
The 729km-long Nordland Line connects Trondheim to Bodø crossing the Arctic Circle, while the Bergen Line tracks a much shorter – though equally scenic – 371km route.
For those with less time to spare, the 20km Flåm Line (a section of the Bergen Line) is more than satisfactory.
7 · Snap a pic at Pulpit Rock
Crystal-clear waters, long white beaches and incredible food are the main ingredients of the Stavanger region, which is also the home of Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock.
Pulpit Rock is a 604m high sheer cliff that rises above Lysefojrden, and the hike to get there is one of Norway’s most iconic. It’s 8km long and takes around 4 hours to complete.
8 · Dig into a bowl of Fårikål
Fårikål – which directly translates to ‘mutton and cabbage’ – is Norway’s national dish, and is sure to warm the soul after a long day of exploring and sight-seeing.
It’s basically a stew, and while very simple to make, has been cooked and enjoyed by Norwegians for generations.
Be sure to try it out at Art Café in Norway’s north, or Dovrehallen in Oslo.
9 · Cruise along the Atlantic Ocean Road
The Atlantic Ocean Road is an 8km stretch of highway that runs through a Norwegian archipelago and takes the term ‘scenic drive’ to the next level. Basically, it feels like you’re driving through the sea, curving around some of the most unique views of the coastline.
It only takes a few minutes to travel the whole snake-like route, but be sure to make time for stops at Troll’s Church Cave, Eldhusøya, and quaint fishing village, Bud.
10 · Tromsø
Coined the nation’s cultural hub, Tromsø is located at the top end of Norway and is another perfect location to catch the northern lights dance across the night sky. Meanwhile dog sledding, snowshoeing and seal-spotting will keep you busy during the day.