What to do in Norway?

While admiring the Northern Lights in Norway is one of the top activities, there are many other things to do and discover in the territory! Considered one of the most incredible destinations, Norway knows how to combine wild landscapes with mysterious spaces, while maintaining a touch of magic with fairy-tale locations and traditional architecture. But what are the best activities to do in Norway, and which places are worth visiting? I invite you to read this guide thoroughly to discover the must-see attractions that you cannot miss during your stay!

Visiting Norway and its exceptional Scandinavian lands is a unique experience, as this destination shares nothing in common with the more populated countries. Norway is a long, narrow country, known for its colorful wooden houses and beautiful fjords! Although it is a less densely populated and more remote country where it can sometimes get very cold, you will enjoy its well-preserved natural spaces where you can recharge amidst breathtaking landscapes! By the way, if you don't know how to cope with the cold during your trip, feel free to check out my dedicated article for all the tips you need to prepare for your stay in Norway

Unmissable for its beauty and undeniable charm, Tromsø is the largest city in northern Norway. This must-see stop will take you to discover the colorful wooden houses and the fresh coastal air, even though the locals are quite warm If you really want to observe the Northern Lights, know that Tromsø is clearly the best place to enjoy the show during certain times of the year! Furthermore, if you don't know where to stay in Tromsø, feel free to consult my dedicated article to find incredible places. Most tourists who visit this city are impressed! On one hand, by the warm welcome of the locals, and also by the atmosphere that permeates the city. You won't find a more typical place than this charming village in the heart of the Norwegian cold If you're unsure of what to do in Tromsø, I strongly recommend booking a boat tour that will provide you with a unique view of the city. Despite the constant winter of the North, you'll be amazed by the twinkling lights and the boats docked at the harbor. Otherwise, if you prefer to engage in a typically Norwegian activity while enjoying nature, you can also take a day tour on a reindeer-drawn sled In addition to sharing a special moment with these extraordinary animals, you'll have the opportunity to feed the herd, enjoy a warm dinner, and meet the herders who will share interesting insights about this unique profession. Expect to pay about €153 per person to participate

Nestled between mountains and a picturesque fjord, Bergen is a lovely little village with unique charm, located in the southeast of Norway. You can stroll through the alleys of Bryggen, a historic district with colorful wooden houses that reflect the city's rich maritime heritage. To get a panoramic view of the city, I invite you to take the Fløibanen, the city's funicular, from which you can observe the harbor and the surrounding peaks from Mount Fløyen. To buy your tickets, I recommend going directly to the official Fløibanen website. One of the many advantages of this charming village is its proximity to nature. If you don't know what to do in Bergen, you will have the opportunity to take several hiking trails, like the famous Seven Mountains hike. If you prefer to explore the city and soak in the local atmosphere, you can also head to the harbor, where a fish market is regularly held. You can taste delicious fish and seafood, including king crab and dried cod. If you want to make sure you don't miss anything, you can join the guided walking tour of Bergen, starting at about €24. With a guide, you'll wander through the village to visit iconic places like the theater, the Rosenkrantz tower, the Bergenhus fortress, the Nostet district, and of course, Bryggen Moreover, if you're looking for a place to stay in Bergen, I invite you to read my article where I share my favorite addresses!

Oslo is not just the capital of the country; it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, known for its serenity, green spaces, and exceptional maritime setting! Although it belongs to Viking culture, Oslo is also modern with its ultra-modern buildings and numerous bike lanes. Are you wondering what to do in Oslo? Of course, you will find a plethora of activities to enjoy in the capital: bike tours, discovery of the Akershus Fortress, or shopping on Karl Johans Gate, there's something for everyone Winter sports enthusiasts will love exploring Holmenkollbakken, a ski jump offering a panoramic view of the capital and the fjord, while others may prefer to relax aboard a sailboat for an afternoon cruise. One thing is for sure, don't forget to book your activities in advance, as the capital is quite touristy regardless of the time of year. Additionally, the capital is also famous for its countless cultural activities. I particularly recommend visiting the Viking Ship Museum, which is perfect for children, and the Nobel Peace Prize Museum where you can discover fascinating exhibitions about the history of this coveted award and its founder, Alfred Nobel. Of course, you haven't truly visited Oslo if you haven't stopped by the iconic Oslo Opera House, located at the end of the Oslo fjord in Bjorvika. To find out where to stay in Oslo, check out my dedicated article! I share all my tips for finding the ideal accommodations in the Norwegian capital

For those who love history and ancient architecture, I highly recommend visiting Fredrikstad, a small port city located at the mouth of the Glomma River in the southeast of the country. The uniqueness of this city is that it has original fortifications and a rather unusual aerial view! The best way to explore Fredrikstad is to wander through its centuries-old small alleys. It's ideal for discovering the city and its beautiful colorful houses A bridge about 1 km long also connects areas of the municipality while allowing you to observe the coastline. But like any respectable port city, don't hesitate to have lunch on-site to taste the delicious fresh fish and other local specialties at a bistro!

Unmissable and timeless, a cruise in Norway is a unique way to explore beautiful places, even the most remote areas like the fjords. In Norway's case, excursions into the fjords are the ideal solution to preserve the biodiversity of these protected natural areas, as you won't need a car to reach them. Generally, cruise ships make stops in the most well-known cities such as Tromsø, Bergen, Trondheim, and Ålesund. Most of these cities, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, harbor a large part of the country's fjords, allowing you to reach them quite easily without having to navigate for hours. From there, enjoy the immense waterfalls, mountains, and labyrinths of cliffs and rocks of the Arctic Circle

Although Norway has over 1,000 fjords along its coasts, there are a few that are particularly worth a visit. Among them, one of the most beautiful and famous in the country is Geirangerfjord. Located in the west of the territory, about a hundred kilometers from Ålesund, this fjord is visited every year by millions of tourists from around the world. If you too want to discover this extraordinary place, I invite you to participate in the guided bus tour of Geiranger and the UNESCO World Heritage area. Starting at about €69, you will be accompanied by a guide and will visit the most important spots like the Flydalsjuvet viewpoint, the Djupvatn lake, and the famous Dalsnibba mountain, and you will finish by taking the legendary Eagle Road. If you are more athletic or prefer to admire the fjord from the water, you can also opt for the guided kayak tour in Geiranger fjord, starting at €105 per person Besides offering a magical and fairy-tale atmosphere, Geiranger is home to the Norwegian Fjord Center, a multimedia center showcasing the region's history and its people. If you love hiking, you can take the trail leading to the Flydalsjuvet viewpoint, a steep little road that climbs into the mountains

For a moment of escape and disconnection, head to the Sognefjord north of Bergen, one of the most beautiful places to discover on Norwegian soil. In addition to being one of the most beautiful fjords, it is also the longest, nearly 200 km long, spanning the country from west to east, and the deepest (down to 1,300 meters!). Depending on the time of year and the weather, its waters take on an emerald green hue, which is a true fascination for every visitor . Furthermore, you can also enjoy a variety of activities in the area, both summer and winter. You'll find many hiking trails (on foot or on snowshoes depending on the season), as well as farms where you can participate in cooking workshops alongside locals For the more adventurous, the Sognefjord is also a prime location for extreme sports such as rafting, mountaineering, skiing on the Jostedalsbreen glacier, or even snowmobiling. Regardless of whether you are traveling alone, with family, or with friends, you are sure to find something that will captivate you!

Lyngenfjord is a great place for walks and hiking. If you want to escape for a few hours or days, you will be lucky enough to discover breathtaking panoramas It's also possible to admire the Northern Lights and even go bungee jumping! This peaceful spot will not disappoint if you love serenity and vast natural spaces. With the Sustainable Tourism label, Lyngenfjord is highly preserved and protected from mass tourism. Norway is renowned for emphasizing the balance of its biodiversity to preserve its riches and natural beauties.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Norway is still the Lofoten Islands! This archipelago offers a paradise-like setting close to the Arctic Circle. The islands are located off Bodø, between the Norwegian Sea and the Vestfjord, a fish-rich body of water that separates them from the mainland. The waters are crystal clear and the sandy shores have a lovely golden hue, perfect for observing crustaceans, fish, and other marine life. During the summer, you can enjoy constant sunlight, which can be pleasant during an excursion. Moreover, it's especially between June and July that it rains the least and the weather is mild! By the way, the Lofoten Islands are also an ideal spot to observe the Northern Lights above the waters To discover part of the stunning Lofoten Islands, I invite you to join the silent cruise to the Lofoten Islands and the Trollfjord Starting at about €119 per person, you will embark on a beautiful catamaran from the port of Svolvær, before heading towards Trollfjord. Accompanied by a guide, you will learn more about this magical place, as well as its flora and fauna. You will likely have the chance to observe the famous sea eagles, which come to fish nearby, as well as marine life through the underwater drone. If you're interested in this activity, I recommend booking in advance to ensure you can participate during your trip!

Located east of Greenland and halfway between the far north of Norway and the North Pole, the Svalbard region (whose name literally means 'cold coasts') is a desert-like place where climatic conditions are very harsh and where more than half the territory is covered by glaciers! Unique and unusual, the Svalbard archipelago is known for hosting a large colony of polar bears and very few humans! For this reason, local authorities strongly recommend that visitors equip themselves with a rifle, primarily as a deterrent in case they encounter a bear. However, I want to clarify that this site is not a tourist destination. Few visitors venture here due to the harsh climate, and the area is protected. If you wish to explore the place, it is highly recommended to hire a guide! Of course, take the necessary precautions by dressing very warmly, as temperatures can be extremely low If you are a nature lover seeking tranquility and stunning panoramas, I can only recommend taking the time to discover this remote place. By the way, to not miss anything and to discover some of the wonders of the region, you will have the opportunity to join a boat excursion to explore the nature and wildlife of Svalbard during the midnight sun season, when the sun never sets. Starting at about €227 per person, you will embark on a closed and heated boat, searching for famous polar bears, seals, walruses, and even humpback and blue whales

Nestled between the Lofoten Islands and mainland Norway, the Vesteralen archipelago is another piece of paradise that can be visited any time of the year! The archipelago is made up of several large islands: Langøya, Andøya, Hadseløya, and the eastern part of Hinnøya. You can discover magnificent landscapes and enjoy a calm and relaxing atmosphere, making this place a haven for anyone dreaming of escape and change of scenery If you want to observe the snow-capped mountains and vast Norwegian valleys, it's better to enjoy a boat excursion. While it is possible to enjoy a little hike, the maritime route allows you to see some more secluded and discreet spots.

Norway, and Scandinavian countries as a whole, are filled with numerous stories and legends. You will certainly hear about the existence of trolls, mystical and invisible creatures that are always preparing mischief! Among the must-see spots, I propose a hike to Trolltunga, known as the 'Troll's Tongue'. It is a rock that seems to burst from the mountains, appearing as a tongue. This rock overlooks Ringedalsvatnet Lake and is accessible via a hiking trail of 15 kilometers, one of the most popular routes in the country! The more adventurous can also participate in a day of hiking and climbing at Trolltunga, for about €178 per person

While Norway is widely renowned for its breathtaking and unusual landscapes, it also hosts a rich diversity of flora and fauna. While traveling through the country, you can admire a myriad of birds To do this, you should head to the Vega archipelago, a region situated close to the Arctic Circle. Certified as an important bird conservation area (ZICO) by BirdLife International, it is home to hundreds of bird species and is a global reference for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts! Of course, don't forget the impressive backdrop of the archipelago with its towering cliffs bordering the waters of the North. It should also be noted that the archipelago comprises no less than 6,500 islands, islets, and reefs that have been inhabited for over 1,500 years, with some evidence of human presence dating back to the Stone Age, a true mystery!

One thing's for sure, you haven't truly traveled to Norway if you haven't gone on a Northern Lights hunt! Although it's possible to observe them in various places depending on weather conditions and the time of year, some spots are known to be better than others. One such place is Bleik, a small fishing village located northwest of Andøya Island, in the northern part of the country. This area is an ideal spot for observing this phenomenon, particularly due to its beautiful coastal path that stretches along the shore to the hills This walk extends over several kilometers, but it is truly worth it, even in the cold! It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy some tranquility, work on your cardio while admiring the Norwegian landscapes. Of course, I recommend dressing warmly and hiring a guide to increase your chances of spotting the Northern Lights! If you are staying in Tromsø, the largest city in the north, you can also choose a guided excursion to hunt for the Northern Lights! Here are a selection of my favorite excursions:

To discover exceptional landscapes, sometimes it takes a bit of physical effort, especially when climbing Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock! This 600-meter-high cliff offers stunning views of the waters of one of Norway's largest fjords: Lysefjord. Reaching the cliff isn't easy. The trails and pathways leading to the summit are quite steep, sometimes narrow and steep! Plus, the summit promises to deliver strong sensations, with its breathtaking views of the clear waters of the fjord. Be cautious though, as the site has no safety structures such as barriers or railings. This enhances the raw and immersive character of the activity, but also makes it relatively dangerous! Make sure to take precautions by wearing good hiking shoes and avoiding getting too close to the edge For more safety, I recommend joining the guided hike to the summit of Pulpit Rock at Lysefjord, starting at about €104 per person. You will meet your guide in Stavanger, where you will board a ferry for a cruise along the strait to Lysefjord, before reaching Pulpit Rock. Expect about 2 to 3 hours of hiking.

The Hardangervidda Nature Reserve can quickly become your favorite spot, especially if you're seeking peace and tranquility! Far from the highly touristy natural spots like Trolltunga and Pulpit Rock, this national park is a paradise where tourists are fewer. You'll find numerous lakes, breathtaking views of glaciers, and lush maquis where reindeer roam freely If you prefer not to go hiking or are a bit tired of the other outings you've done in Norway, know that a scenic road winds through the park, from Eidsfjord in the west to Haugastøl in the east, allowing you to admire stunning landscapes from your vehicle.

Once again, the trolls are back! After discussing the troll's tongue, you can also explore Trollstigen, the 'Troll's Ladder' Built in the 1930s, this narrow and winding road allows you to cross a vast hill in a spectacular route. By renting a car or a motorcycle, I can promise you that you will experience thrilling moments during the ascent! Norwegian roads are known for an adrenaline rush, a feeling strongly contrasted with its exceptional landscapes If you have some time to spare, I highly recommend enjoying this must-see stop during your stay.

This activity is for the most seasoned hikers! Indeed, reaching the North Cape (Knivskjellodden in Norwegian) is no small feat and can be very dangerous if you're unprepared. Located on the island of Magerøya, it is one of the northernmost points in Europe, north of the city of Tromsø mentioned earlier in this guide, the sublime capital of Nordland The tip of the cape is symbolized by a cliff that rises 307 meters high! This height marks its extremity between the Norwegian Sea and the Barents Sea. The best time to undertake this activity is between May and October, when temperatures are at their warmest (although they still remain cool!). During spring, temperatures can reach up to 20 degrees, but that lasts only a day. In autumn, it's cold with a chance of snow! ❄️ Be careful not to confuse the North Cape, Knivskjellodden, and the tourist North Cape, Nordkapp. In fact, the tourist North Cape is merely a large parking lot with a shopping center, and it isn't even the true geographical North Cape! The latter is only accessible after a 9 km hike from the parking area (thus 18 km round trip).

Located in the south of Norway, the Vest-Agder archipelago comprises thousands of small islands! I must specify that this region is a lesser-known spot for tourists. In fact, it is usually Norwegians themselves who travel south to enjoy a few days of vacation. The fact that the locals go there proves it must be a beautiful area! The atmosphere that emanates from southern Norway is indeed unique. On one hand, it is slightly warmer, and the sun reflects beautifully off the waters of the Baltic Sea. The villages boast beautiful white wooden houses and picturesque alleys. You will have the opportunity to visit Tvedestrand before discovering Arendal, Grimstad, Lillesand, and Mandal. Still in the south, another area not to be missed is Setesdal, a vast valley punctuated by marked trails leading to the Rjukan waterfall. If you want to explore southern Norway, don't miss the visit to the village of Arasbko, a quaint little spot. We have now reached the end of this guide! I hope it inspired your next trip near the Arctic Circle. Norway is an incredible and unusual vacation destination, where you can only stand in awe of its spectacular landscapes! I hope this article has given you new ideas for activities if you weren't sure what to do in Norway