There are numerous wonderful destinations to visit in Norway. The Troms region is in the far north, Alesund is on the west coast, and wonderful tiny towns like Flm are nestled deep within the mountains. There are also magnificent fjords to visit. The entire country is a veritable treasure of sights that every tourist should see.
Norway’s amazing diversity extends beyond its breathtaking environment, as its culture is equally exciting and lovely to explore. Norway is a lengthy country packed with plenty of things to see and do, stretching from hip cosmopolitan capitals to stunning fjords, the northern lights, and solitary settlements at the Arctic Circle.
Let’s take a quick look at the facts:
- Language: Norwegian and Sami
- Population: 5.4 million
- Life Expectancy: 82
- Currency: Norwegian Krone (of course, Bitcoin is also accepted)
- Capital: Oslo
Now let’s dig deep for those “must-sees” on your next trip…
1. The Atlanterhavsveien
The Atlanterhavsveien also referred to as Atlantic Road, is a stunning route that passes through some of Norway’s most beautiful landscapes.
It’s a beautiful road trip destination that links the Norwegian mainland to the picturesque island of Averya. In addition, stop at Kvernes Stave Church which is Approximately 600 years old, making it one of the country’s oldest buildings.
Always keep an eye out for the Storseisundet Bridge.
2. Sognefjord
Sognefjord is the longest of Norway’s fjords, stretching inland for 204 kilometres from Skjolden village on the coast. All along the way, it splits into innumerable minor inlets and fjords. Norway’s “King of the Fjords” is about five kilometres at its broadest point and features towering cliffs that reach heights of up to 1,307 meters.
The fjord is best explored on the water. Consequently, fjord cruises and scenic trips abound and are the best options for easily departing from the charming city of Bergen. But plan on spending at least a day on your journey, no matter where it may take you.
The smaller tributaries, such as Naeroyfjord, are also popular tourist destinations. The cliff faces here are less than 250 meters apart and rise more than 1,700 meters well above water, making for a breathtakingly spectacular 17-kilometre length.
3. Alta
Alta is among the northernmost cities on Earth, located in the Arctic Circle in Norway’s far north. Located on a picturesque fjord, it is often regarded as a prime spot to view the Northern Lights. When the polar lights are active, they may transform the night sky into a kaleidoscope of dazzling colours.
Although this natural light show is a major draw for tourists to Alta, there are many other intriguing places to see in the city. Among these are the Northern Lights Cathedral, with its bold and original style, and the city’s renowned museum, which has prehistoric rock sculptures.
Moreover, Alta is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and amazing scenery, which are especially breathtaking when blanketed with snow. Cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and canoeing are all popular in Alta because of the stunning scenery, and no vacation would be complete without witnessing the dazzling Northern Lights.
4. Pulpit Rock
Despite the trek’s difficulty getting here, Pulpit Rock is among the most visited attractions in Norway. This also happens to be one of the most photographed places in all of Norway.
This near-Stavanger destination calls for a bus, a ferry, and an uphill two-hour climb. After climbing the nearly vertical 600 meters towards the cliff’s flat summit, you’ll be compensated with breathtaking views of Lysefjord.
Visitors to the Stavanger region should not miss the Norwegian Canning Museum. Fun and informative, this museum is housed in the old cannery that produced sardines for the country during World War II.
5. Oslo
Norway’s capital city of Oslo is located in a beautiful setting at the end of the Oslofjord fjord, with numerous islands and lakes in the immediate vicinity. The city’s history extends back over a thousand years, making it an important economic, political, and cultural hub.
Though modern, avant-garde structures dominate the city’s core, enclaves of historic timber structures may still be spotted here and there. The city is home to numerous museums and art galleries, including the interesting Viking Ship Museum, in addition to its active performing arts scene and jam-packed festival calendar.
In addition to the Folkemuseet, visitors to Oslo can also stop by the Munch Museum and see Edvard Munch’s The Scream as well as other masterpieces. The outdoor museum features approximately 150 historical structures from all throughout Norway.
6. Lofoten Islands
Visitors worldwide flock to see the stunning Lofoten Islands, which make up an archipelago off of the coast of northwest Norway. Despite being north of the Arctic Circle, the weather is pleasant here because of the Gulf Stream.
The beaches, quaint fishing villages, and kayaking and hiking opportunities draw visitors worldwide. The wildlife, which ranges from eagles and moose to whales, is another major draw for visitors. If you want to see the northern lights, the islands are a great site to do so.
Take Away
Norway is a country located in Scandinavia that is known for being the birthplace of the Vikings. Its borders include vast stretches of icy tundra, hip towns, and a long coastline. Norway is undoubtedly one of the most stunning countries in the world, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, which include both mainland and offshore islands, mountains, and fjords. Any time of year is a good time to go on an expedition in Norway, whether you desire to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the aurora borealis or the glow of the summer sun on a glacier that is miles across.