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Norway Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, norway - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. 

Exercise normal precautions in Norway.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Norway.  

If you decide to travel to Norway:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive travel alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Norway.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Norway

• 1. Norway is a Scandinavian Country

2. Polar Bears do not Walk in the Streets

3. the norwegian currency is nok (norwegian krone), 4. most norwegians speak english, 5. norway is a safe country to visit, 6. winter, spring, summer, fall, 7. always bring an extra layer of clothes, 8. wild camping is allowed in mostly all of norway, 9. national parks and most outdoor locations are free to use, 10. norway has the best salmon, 11. traveling in norway can be expensive if you only eat out.

• 12. Northern lights aren't visible everywhere
• 13. Norway is a Long Country
• 14. There aren't Many Dangers in the Wild

15. Norwegians eat a lot of Taco

16. the difference between southern norway and northern norway is huge.

• 17. The Midnight Sun Isn't a Different Sun

Are you dreaming of visiting Norway one day? Perhaps you've already booked a flight and have begun planning the trip. Regardless of where you are in the process, here are 17 things you should know before visiting Norway:

1. Norway is a Scandinavian Country 

We Norwegians tend to believe that Norway is the center of the earth and everyone knows who we are. The truth is that Norway isn't as large as we want to believe and everyone doesn't even know that Norway even is a country. 

Norway is a Scandinavian country with approximately 5.2 million people and has numerous times been named one of the best places to live and/or visit. 

(For those who don't know: Scandinavia consists of Norway, Sweden and Denmark; 3 nordic countries located in Europe)

A common misconception is that Polar Bears walk the streets in Norway. This is, fortunately, not the case. In fact, there are no wild Polar Bears on mainland Norway. 

Norway is actually a really civilized country and you would be surprised to see how modern it is. We even have cars driving in the streets...!

Svalbard, however, is a Norwegian archipelago between mainland Norway and the North Pole where there are more Polar Bears than people. Still, it's rare that there are any incidents between the inhabitants and Polar Bears.

The currency we use in Norway is the Norwegian Krone. So, if you're traveling with only Euro you won't come far. The Norwegian Krone was recently weakened which means that if you're traveling to Norway in the near future it will be cheaper than what it was only one year ago. 

It should be mentioned that Norway is using less and less cash. You can mostly anything with a credit card, even taxis and hot dogs! That means that it's not a crisis if you forgot to bring cash.

Don't know Norwegian? No problem! The majority of Norwegians speaks English. Even though some are a bit shy to have a full conversation, they are able to understand most and to help you with any questions you might have. 

So, don't be afraid of saying hi to a stranger! 

Norway is known to be one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are extremely low even in major cities such as Oslo , Bergen , Trondheim , and Stavanger . 

As with any other urban areas, you should take certain precautions but there's not much to be afraid of. Even walking alone during the night is relatively safe and the chances are small that you'll become the victim of a crime.

Most crimes in Norway are related to home and office burglaries. There are some groups of pickpocketers traveling around the most touristic areas during summer so keep an extra eye on your wallet when you're in a crowd (still, the possibilities of anything happening is low).  

There are 4 seasons in Norway: winter, spring, summer, and fall. Be sure to take this into consideration when you're planning to visit Norway . Some attractions are only open during a specific season and certain hikes are unreachable during winter. If your main purpose is to visit one specific location figure out what season is optimal for that. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that the weather changes a lot between seasons. Make sure that you always bring enough clothes when traveling to Norway as it does get cold! Keeping an eye on the weather forecast  is always a good idea.

The weather, as mentioned above, changes a lot between seasons in Norway so you always want to bring enough clothes. Most importantly, if you're planning to go on some hikes during your visit, you need to bring an extra layer of clothes. Even during summer, it's wise to bring a rain jacket and a fleece in your backpack in case the weather changes or the temperatures drop when you reach a higher altitude. 

Due to " Allemannsretten " (every man or woman's right of public access), you can pitch a tent wherever you want in Norway (unless anything else is stated at a specific area). The outdoors is very important for us Norwegians and we do our best to maintain the right of using the outdoors freely. So, make sure that you leave no traces behind and don't do any damage to nature.

There are also several campsites all over Norway that are cheap to stay at. At these sites, you often have the possibility to take a warm shower, clean your clothes and charge any batteries.

Also, due to "Allemannsretten", all public lands are free to access. This means that you don't have to pay an entrance fee for a national park and you're free to go mostly wherever you want. All we ask is that you treat nature with respect and do your best not to leave any traces behind.

It's true, Norway has the best salmon. In fact, it was Norwegians who introduced the Japanese to Salmon Sushi in the 1980's. That's how good our salmon is. 

While salmon isn't cheap, make sure that you have at least one proper salmon meal in Norway even if you're traveling on a budget.

It's no secret that Norway is an expensive country to visit. Even though it's less expensive now that the Norwegian Krone is weak, it's not cheap. One way to avoid spending too much money during your travels in Norway is to eat less at restaurants. Purchasing your own food at a supermarket is much cheaper than going out every day. Unlike many other countries, Norway doesn't have a culture of going out to eat. 

If you are traveling on a budget make sure that you read through our Norway on a Budget Guide .

12. Northern lights aren't visible everywhere

Are you dreaming of seeing the northern lights? Well, Norway is the right place to do it!

There's something magical about watching the sky turn into a green and purple formation dancing all over. I still remember the first time I saw it for myself, it was a moment that changed my life...

Many tourists come to Norway with the intent to see the northern lights . However, the northern lights (or Aurora Borealis) isn't visible all over Norway.

Since Norway is a long country you're normally only able to see the lady in green in the northern parts of Norway. The further south you go, the fewer lights you will see. Places such as Lofoten, Bodø and Tromsø are popular areas to watch the northern lights .

You should also remember that the northern lights won't be visible during the summer as it is too bright during that season. Typically, you've got the best chance of seeing some activity between October and April.

13. Norway is a Long Country 

Another large misconception about Norway is that it's a small country which is easy to travel around. This isn't the case. Even though only 5 million people live here, it’s a large country by area (148 718 square miles) that stretches from 57° to 81° North. This means that you're not able to spend a couple of days in Norway and see both the west coast, capital and northern parts. In fact, driving from Kristiansand in southern Norway to Nordkapp in Northern Norway takes about 38 hours non-stop.

Therefore, you should plan your trip carefully and look at the distances between the places you want to go. If you want to see places in all regions I strongly suggest you spend some days extra or plan more than one trip. 

• Press here for self-drive itineraries in Norway
• Press here for self-drive tours in Norway

14. There aren't Many Dangers in the Wild

Besides the Polar Bears on Svalbard, there are no dangerous animals waiting to attack you in the Norwegian wild. Either you're in the woods, on a mountain or on a glacier, you have nothing to fear. 

There are animals that you want to avoid but they will typically run away before you even see them. You can read more about wildlife and animals in Norway here . 

If you visit a Norwegian family on a Friday evening the possibility is high that they are having Tacos for dinner. As a joke, it's said that Tex-Mex is Norway's national food. Yes, it really is that popular - even my grandma makes Tacos on Fridays!

(Ok, you might not have  needed  to know this but it's a fun fact that might work as an awkward icebreaker!)

Since Norway is such a long country it goes without saying that the differences are quite significant. In the southern Norway, you have beautiful coasts and warm (not tropical!) weather, the East has large areas of woods and the capital, the West has the fjords and mountains while the north has the arctic landscapes. 

You might also notice that the dialects spoken throughout Norway are quite different and if you're just learning to speak some Norwegian it might be a bit confusing. 

17. The Midnight Sun Isn't a Different Sun

During winter, northern Norway has polar nights; a period where the sun never rises above the horizon and you have 24 hours of dark. During summer, however, it's the exact opposite; the sun never sets. 

You might have heard of the  Midnight Sun  before. Unlike what a few tend to believe, the midnight sun is actually not a different sun...it's just the same sun as during the rest of the year but it doesn't go down; meaning 24 hours of daylight. 

• Press here for things to do in Oslo
• Press here for things to do in Lofoten
• Press here for things to do in Tromsø

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23 Things You Really Need to Know Before Visiting Norway

June 14, 2021 by Silvia 5 Comments

Last week I finally finished a project I have been working on for  years . The Southern Norway Travel Guide is a 93-page ebook that covers my top recommendations for places to visit in southern Norway (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and a sample itinerary that covers my personal favorite route through the south.

Did I originally expect this ebook to be so long? No. But I guess after all these years living and traveling in Norway I’ve gathered a lot of advice for how to plan an epic trip to Norway. So if you’re planning on visiting Norway, this one is for you. You can get more details and purchase the Southern Norway ebook here .

Update: I’ve now also published my Northern Norway ebook here . 

To celebrate, I thought I could also share a few highlights with my top tips for things you should know before visiting Norway. Again, I originally thought this would be a list of seven or eight tips, but it was so hard to narrow them down.

Norway is a big country with small roads

The number one mistake I see people make when planning a trip to Norway is underestimating the distances here. Norway is a big country with a small population, which means that the distances here are long but the roads are still quite small with low speed limits and public transport doesn’t run that often.

So if you want to visit several different parts of the country you’ll either have to account for long drives or include some domestic flights in your itinerary.

You can skip the big cities

Visiting Norway without seeing Oslo is not the same as traveling to France without visiting Paris. While Norway does have some charming cities, the main attraction here is the nature, so you really won’t be missing out on much if you skip the cities and head straight to the countryside.

And if you do want a taste of Norwegian city life, I’ve compiled a ranked list of my favorite cities in Norway here .

Not all fjords are equal

Norwegians use the term fjord  to refer to any long, narrow bay, whereas the international geological definition of a fjord is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, created by a glacier. This means that you can’t simply look at a map of Norway and randomly choose a fjord to visit – at least not if you’re looking for steep cliffs and deep water.

If you want to see those classic fjords you’ve been dreaming about, head to western Norway. I run through my favorite fjords in the ebook, including a sample itinerary through the prettiest ones, and I’ve also compiled a list of the fifteen most beautiful fjords in Norway here .

Book your fjord hotels early

If you’re planning to visit the fjord region in the summer, book your hotels as soon as possible. Often the hotels here get fully booked, and if you want to stay at one of the special historic hotels here you’ll need to book far in advance.

Public transport is slow

If you’re planning to travel Norway by public transport, be aware that it will take a lot longer than by car and some bus routes to remote areas only go once or twice a day. If you can, I would at least try to rent a car for a few days to explore the countryside. Read my guide to driving in Norway here .

The winding roads can be brutal

Even if you don’t usually get motion sickness, the roads here might do a number on you. This is another reason I prefer driving or taking trains to being in a bus – getting stuck sitting in the back of a bus on really winding roads is the actual worst. I also highly recommend getting some Sea-Bands for your trip. You can buy them at any pharmacy in Norway, but they’re about a third of the price on Amazon .

Drive the National Scenic Routes

Norway has a lot of absurdly scenic roads, but it also has its fair share of boring highways. And you definitely don’t want to spend the bulk of your epic Norwegian road trip driving through tunnels, which Norway has a  lot of. An easy way to find Norway’s most scenic roads is by using the  National Scenic Routes map . These eighteen roads have been deemed Norway’s most scenic, and having driven down fifteen of them I have to say I agree.

Book your train tickets in advance

You can book your train ticket up to three months in advance, and tickets tend to be a lot cheaper the earlier you book. The cheapest tickets are non-refundable so you’ll want to be sure of your travel dates, but as soon as you know for sure you should go ahead and buy those train tickets!

No one uses cash here

It’s been years since I paid for anything with cash here, and in fact many places won’t even accept cash. So definitely don’t bother taking out any kroner when you arrive in Norway.

Ask a local for the best hiking route

I get so many emails from people asking where the best hikes are in places in Norway I’ve never blogged about (so presumably have never been). And I totally get the desire to plan out your trip before arriving in Norway, but in this case it’s actually much better to wait to ask locals about the best hikes.

Because even if you can find information online, usually it will just be for the super popular, super touristy hikes, whereas only locals will know about the hidden gems. Instead simply stop in the local tourist information office or ask at your accommodation. They’ll know what’s best for the current season, plus there’s no better way to engage a Norwegian in conversation than asking for hiking tips.

And don’t worry about not having a firm plan in advance – there are so many hikes all over Norway (even in the big cities) that you’ll be sure to find something that suits your timeframe and fitness level, as well as the local conditions.

But if you do really want to try to plan out your Norway hikes in advance, Ut.no has all of the hiking trails in Norway marked on a map here , including both the summer and winter trails (winter trails are usually for cross-country skiing). The website is unfortunately only in Norwegian, however Google Translate should at least help you to get a rough idea of the hikes.

I’ve written more tips for hiking in Norway here .

The weather is crazy

No like actually crazy. One moment it can be warm and sunny and the next you’re in a snowstorm. I’ve learned never to fully trust the weather forecasts here and always be prepared for a drop of temperature or some unexpected precipitation. So throw a wool sweater and rain jacket in your daypack, even if the skies are blue.

Wool will be your new best friend when visiting Norway

Norwegians wear a lot of wool, so you’ll want some wool to fit in here. But the reason for all the wool is that it’s really practical! Wool is super warm, plus it doesn’t retain odors, so it’s great for traveling.

The Kari Traa wool leggings and shirts are especially popular here and you’ll often see women wearing them in photos.

The dress code is casual

Norwegians dress really casually here, even in the cities. While you might see some women in high heels on a night out in Oslo, you’ll see a lot more women wearing sneakers with their dresses. So leave the fancy footwear at home, because I can pretty much guarantee you won’t want to wear it here.

Choose your season wisely

Different seasons in Norway offer quite different travel experiences. In the summer and early autumn you can go hiking, in the winter we have lots of fun snow activities and the northern lights in the Arctic, and in the spring you can avoid the tourist crowds and often get better travel deals.

But then you have to remember that from November to January Norway gets very little daylight, so you won’t have as much time to see the sights, and even in the summer nice weather is never guaranteed.

You can buy cheap food at the supermarket

You’ll hear a lot about how expensive food in Norway is and it’s true, meals at a restaurant or even convenient store will cost a lot. At the same time, not  all food in Norway is expensive. It’s totally possible to find affordable food options at supermarkets here. So if you’re on a budget skip the restaurants and convenient stores and head to a supermarket.

It’s easy to find plant based food options at a supermarket but can be difficult at restaurants in the countryside

It’s quite easy to eat plant based in Norway now, but you still might struggle to find plant based options on menus outside of the big cities. You can usually just ask for a vegan option, or again, buy something at a supermarket.

Eat the chocolate

I’d say the best food in Norway is the milk chocolate. Definitely don’t visit Norway without trying it!

Don’t drink the aquavit

I mean do what you want, but you’ve been warned.

Buying rounds at a bar is not a thing here

If you buy a round for your new Norwegian friends they will all be super happy, but no one will reciprocate.

Never skip a hotel breakfast buffet

I swear nowhere does better hotel breakfast buffets than Norway. When traveling I usually always choose to sleep a few extra minutes instead of getting breakfast, except when I’m in Norway.

Gasoline is expensive

Okay you probably guessed this, but it’s important to remember when budgeting out your trip. If you’ll be driving a lot you’re going to be spending a lot on gas. You can check the current average price in Norway here .

If you want to see the northern lights or Midnight Sun you need to visit northern Norway.

While southern Norway will sometimes get glimpses of the northern lights, if you want to see them you need to head north of the Arctic Circle. I’ve compiled a list of the best northern lights hotels here , and I have a full guide to everything you need to plan a northern lights trip here .

If you want to see polar bears you need to visit Svalbard

No, polar bears aren’t roaming around all of Norway. If you want to see one, head to Svalbard !

And as a special thank you for making it to the end of this blog post, you can get 20% off my Southern Norway Guide ebook with the code  20hearts . 

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June 14, 2021 at 4:02 pm

Ooh! A book that I might actually use if I make it to Norway this summer! Will go and buy it straightaway.

About the cash: true, but if you haven’t bought an electronic travel card and suddenly want to take a bus, you probably will need cash (at least you did in the Oslo area during the last Christmas before Covid).

Melissa says

June 14, 2021 at 5:24 pm

I am so tempted to visit Tromso for the Summer solstice as well as the Winter solstice. I will skip the Summer one though as flight are still being cancelled a lot from Ireland where I live.

But, the ‘no cash’ thing? That will be difficult because I share one credit card with other family members and they won’t be in Norway wth me. Is there some kind of temporary cashless solution for tourists? Like a temporary card we can put some credit on?

What types of places do take cash? Supermarket’s? Cafes? Tour guides?

Samantha says

June 16, 2021 at 11:59 am

Can’t wait to visit again sooon!!! Also can confirm Norway has the best milk chocolate. Fully plan on stuffing my face with it!

Andreas Moser says

June 22, 2021 at 6:15 pm

Very useful tips and to the point, thanks!

In addition, I would be curious about hitchhiking in Norway. Maybe someone has some experience and can chime in.

Silvia says

June 25, 2021 at 10:58 am

I’ve written about hitchhiking in Norway here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/budget-travel-transportation/

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Find out if you need a Visa to visit Norway: A Quick Guide

Planning a trip to Norway? In that case, you might wonder whether or not you need a visa to enter Norway.

A regular visitor’s/tourist visa to Norway grants you entry for up to 90 days. If you are a citizen of a Schengen area country, you don’t need to apply for a visa. The same applies to over 50 countries Norway has visa-free travel agreements with, including the UK, USA, and Canada. If you live in countries without an agreement, you need to apply for a visa.

In this article, we will take a look at the visa requirements for visiting Norway and who needs/doesn’t need to apply for a visa.

Visa Requirements in Norway

Eu/eea citizens (schengen area), countries that have agreements with norway, individuals with a residency permit in an eu/eea country or county with a visa agreement, countries from which a visa is required, visit family member, partner or friend, business or event, norwegian visa application (and how mich it costs), is it hard to det a norwegian travel visa, can you work in norway with a tourist visa.

Whether or not you need a visa to visit Norway depends On the purpose of your trip as well as your citizenship. 

If You travel for business or Leisure with an intended stay of fewer than 90 days, chances are you won’t be needing a visa to come to Norway.

The reason is that Norway, as an EEA member is a part of the Schengen area. a European zone consisting of 26 countries where internal borders have been abolished, allowing the area to function as a single jurisdiction for international travel purposes.

This means that is no citizen of a Schengen area country you can travel visa-free to Norway.

In addition, no way to have agreements for visa-free travel with many countries, including the United States, Canada, the UK, and many more.

If you happen to be a citizen of a country Without an agreement for visa-free travel to Norway will have to apply for a Schengen travel visa.

If you are traveling here as part of a work or study program with a duration of more than 90 days, you have to get a residency permit.   

Norwegian Visitors Visa

As mentioned, citizens of Schengen area countries and countries Norway has agreements with can travel visa-free to Norway for up to 90 days.

If not, you will have to apply for a visitors/tourist visa (Schengen visa). This Visa will allow you to travel not only to Norway but all of the countries within the Schengen area for up to 90 days.

There is one exemption. If you are a citizen of a country that requires you to have a visitors visa, however, you have permanent residency or a residency permit in a Schengen country or a country with which Norway has a visa agreement, you can still travel without applying for a Visa.  

All citizens of Schengen area countries can travel Visa-free to Norway for up to 90 days.

 If you wish to stay longer, you have to provide a valid reason for your stay and register with the police. alternatively, you can leave Norway then re-enter for another stay of 90 days.  

There aren’t any restrictions on how long you must stay outside of Norway before re-entry, but you must be able to document that you left the country.  

These rules apply for all Schengen area countries, which include:

Even though you may not be required to have a visa to enter Norway, there are a few requirements. 

If asked, you should be able to provide documentation that shows your reason for entry, such as an invitation, and documentation that shows where you will be staying while you are in Norway.  

Additionally, you may not become an unreasonable burden for the public welfare systems, meaning that you must provide proof of income or the financial means to fund your stay.  

Norway has agreements with many countries for visa-free travel for up to 90 days. These include.

If you are a citizen of Albania, Herzegovina, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia, you must hold a biometric passport then in order to gain entry into Norway through the agreement. 

If you have a residency permit in a Schengen country or any other country that Norway has a visa agreement with, you may travel to Norway for up to 90 days without applying for a Visa.  

In order to do so, make sure to bring your residency permit from the country that has a travel agreement with Norway, as well as your passport from your native country. 

In addition, you should have the appropriate documentation required that shows your reasons for travel and intended place of stay.  

If you reside in a country that is outside the Schengen area and does not have a visa agreement with Norway, you have to apply for a visitor/tourist visa. 

Because Norway is a Schengen area country you have to apply for a Schengen visa. This is because once you are granted entry to Norway, your visa is valid for all Schengen countries.

Countries that require a visa to travel to Norway include:

How to apply for a Norwergian visitor/tourist visa

If you have to apply for a visa before traveling to Norway, make sure you have enough time in order to get approved before you are scheduled to travel.

Start by gathering all the necessary documentation for your application. This includes:

• Must be valid for 3 months after the intended stay and contain atelast 2 blank pages
• A copy of your passport (biopage and used pages)
• Should not be older than 6 months and are not to be edited
• Signed cover letter from the online application
• Has to be valid for the entire trip and have a coverage of atleast 30 000 EUR
• Copy of your flight reservation
• Can be bank statement, salary or pension slips from the last 3 months.
• Copy of your latest tax returns.
• Hotel reservation, rental home, proof of accommodation by host/reference person)
• Close family relations such as marriage and children.
• Occupation/studies, incvluding employment contract, proof of enrollment in school. If self employed a copy of your business registration or latest tax return or financial statements.
• Financial commitments such as ownership of property and savings.

Depending on the intent for your visit, you should also provide some additional documents.

If you are visiting a friend, relative, or partner, you should have an invitation letter signed by your host. If visiting a partner you should also be able to provide some proof of your relationship.

This can include marriage certificates, proof of cohabitation, etc, or other proof of your relationship documenting time spent together. 

Finally, you might also be required to provide a copy of the passport of your host/partner/reference person. This includes the bio page and used pages.

If you travel for business or a sports/cultural event, you should include a certificate from your company/organization verifying the purpose of the trip.

You should also have an invitation from your host in Norway. The documentation should detail the role and length of service, the place, and duration of the trip, as well as a short company profile with contact details.

There should also be some documentation on who will guarantee the travel expenses and bear the day-to-.day living expenses.

If you are applying for a tourist visa, you should provide an itinerary of dates and places you intend to visit during your stay in Norway. 

This should be as detailed as possible and include means of transport, attractions you intend to visit, and if you are attending any events.

If you are traveling as a part of a tourist group, you should attach a copy confirming your participation in the tour package, as well as contact information to the travel agent/agency.

Once you have all the documentation gathered, you can continue by filling out an online application and paying the application fee.

The visa fee is EUR 80. Children under six years do not pay a fee. Children from the age of six years and below the age of 12 years shall pay a visa fee of EUR 40.

After filling out the form and paying the fee, you can schedule an appointment for handing in your application and all the necessary documentation at the Norwegian embassy in your country, or at a Norwegian Visa application center.

If your application has all the necessary documentation, the processing time is usually up to 15 days. However, it might take up to 45 days.

In general, it is recommended to hand in your application at least 4 weeks before your trip. You can apply up to 6 months before your intended arrival.

Once the application is processed, you will receive an email and SMS with the result of your application. If granted, you can pick up the passport with your visa at the embassy/application center, or have it delivered by a courier service.

When processing your application, one of the most important factors determining if you will be granted a visa is the likelihood that you will return to your home country once your visa expires.

Each application is considered individually, however, the general situation in your country is also considered.

In general, it is harder to be granted a visitor’s visa if you are from a country known for having a higher number of migrants and work migrants.

Such countries include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. However, your chances of being granted a visa are higher if you can document strong ties to your home country.

In addition, you have a better chance of being granted a visa if you take a trip organized by a tour operator.

If you want to start the process of applying for a visitors visa to Norway you can start by visiting the website of The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).

If your application is rejected, you have the possibility to appeal the decision by submitting an appeal to the Embassy or Visa application center.

If you want to appeal a rejected application you can read more on UDI’s website here.

No, you cannot work in Norway if you visit on a tourist visa. In order to be able to work in Norway, you will need to apply for a residence permit.

In addition, you cannot come to Norway on a visitors visa to apply for work a residency permit. However, if you are currently residing in Norway on a student permit, you can apply in Norway.

To apply, head over to the portal on the website of The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI). Here you can also find the rules and regulations that apply to you.

Visitors visa to Norway – The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI)

Schengen area – Schengen visa info

Persons who do not need a visa to visit Norway – The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI)

Norway Tours & Vacations

Nature isn’t just a backdrop here, it’s the star of the show. From towering granite peaks to achingly beautiful fjords, Norway doesn’t hold back when it comes to unforgettable moments and landscapes.

Hike the rugged coastline under the otherworldly glow of the midnight sun or explore the Svalbard archipelago on an expedition voyage. Chase Tromso’s Northern Lights, explore the Lofoten Islands’ colorful fishing villages or take the Bergen Railway past alpine lakes and ancient glaciers. Discover a land of friluftsliv (open-air living), of koselig (feeling cosy and content), and find out for yourself why Norwegians rate themselves as some of the happiest people on this beautiful planet.

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Scandinavia Explorer

Northern Norway Explorer

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Norway vs Sweden: Which Scandinavian country should you visit?

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How to spend 48 hours in Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost city

The top 10 destinations for travel in August 2024

An icy encounter: meeting a polar bear in the Arctic

What to expect on an Arctic expedition

Why the Lofoten Islands are Europe’s most beautiful adventure travel destination

Norway at a glance

Capital city.

Oslo (population approximately 670,000)

Approximately 5.3 million

Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Norwegian, Sami

(GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Norway

Culture and customs.

A love of nature permeates every level of Norwegian society, from the freedom to camp on public land (known as the right to roam) to the old Norwegian joke about being born with skis on their feet. A history of farming and an enduring Viking culture that valued strength and hardiness has produced a society unified around values like independence, an active life and simple pleasures.

Speaking of simple pleasures, if you’re in Norway you’ll come across a phrase that has no direct translation in English: ‘koselig’ (pronounced coosh-ly). While ‘koselig’ means something different to each person, it’s best understood as the mental feeling of coziness and contentment that accompanies wholesome activities, like if a happy sigh was a feeling. You may also come across the term ‘friluftsliv’, which refers to the pure delight of splendid natural scenery, fresh air and an active lifestyle. This is perhaps why the country continuously tops the ‘world’s happiest’ lists.

Travelers may find that the locals seem a little shy or reserved at first. Generally speaking, small talk isn’t as big a part of social interaction as it is in places like the USA, Australia and Canada. Don’t take it personally – once you get to know a local, you’ll likely find them as helpful and kind as people anywhere.

History and government

The first people moved here some 10,000 years ago after rising temperatures created the perfect conditions for fishing communities to hunt the coastline’s blubber-rich marine life.

While the Viking Age is the most famous part of Norway’s history, it was actually a fairly short period. Scandinavian warriors traveled around the world to plunder, colonize and build alliances from around AD800 to AD1060. As a result of these invasions into   Scotland , England and Normandy, Saint Olaf unified the country for the first time under Christianity.

In the 14th century Norway was joined with   Denmark   through a royal marriage. Danish became the official language although Norway retained a strong sense of national identity. It was then given to   Sweden   in the early 19th century before finally achieving independence in 1905.

Twentieth century

Norway declared itself neutral during WWII but that didn’t stop the Nazis invading and occupying the country as a strategic military stronghold. Norway quickly recovered once the war ended in terms of infrastructure and economy, though the head of the government-in-exile did not. Vidkun Quisling, who encouraged Norwegians to submit to Nazi rule, was executed for treason in 1945. Fun fact: the word ‘quisling’ is still a colloquial term for ‘traitor’ in Norway.

Perhaps the most significant event in Norway during the 20th century was the discovery of a wealth of natural resources in the late 1960s. The extraction and export of oil and gas quickly became Norway’s dominant industry and continues to provide most of the country’s considerable wealth.

Norway today enjoys a high standard of living with political power generally held by either center-left or center-right parties. The country is renowned worldwide for its free and independent press and strong democracy.

Eating and drinking

Traditional Norwegian cuisine is simple, hearty and designed to keep you warm during those freezing winters. While the classic meat and potato offerings may not be the most exciting, they are plenty satisfying, and you’ll find diverse cuisine options from around the world in Norway’s larger cities. Many travelers to Norway are concerned about how much money they will have to budget for meals during their trip, and while it’s true that eating and drinking in Norway can be expensive compared to other parts of Europe, there are a few things you can do to make your meals more affordable.

Budget-friendly tips for eating and drinking in Norway

Picnic like a local

Eating outside in parks and squares is incredibly popular during the summer in Norway. You’ll even see locals with single-use barbecues grilling meat in the open during the warmer months, which is totally legal. These disposable grills are cheap, but they aren’t great for the environment, so we recommend stocking up on fruit, vegetables, lunch meats and bread for an eco-friendly picnic.  

Drink the tap water

With some of the best-tasting tap water in the world, there’s no need to splurge on bottled stuff. Bring a reusable bottle and fill it up each day. It’s better for your wallet and the environment.

Steer clear of sweets

A huge sugar tax means buying chocolate or candy is expensive everywhere in Norway. Junk heads may want to shore up some luggage space for treats, or simply prepare mentally.

Must-try food and drink in Norway

• Kjottkaker Basically a fried meatball, but flatter and with no breadcrumbs. Kjottkaker are ubiquitous in Norway so you won’t have to look to hard to find them. They’re delicious, filling and widely available – what more could you want? 
• Farikal Norway’s national dish is a perfect warmer for freezing winters (or even chilly spring or autumn nights). Simmered with cabbage and mild spices, pieces of lamb or mutton become fall-off-the-bone soft in this tasty and rustic meal.
• Linie Aquavit This Norwegian brand of aquavit – a botanical vodka – is aged in oak casks during a cruise. Here’s the reasoning given on their website: ‘It all started back in 1805, when the Norwegian trade family, Lysholm, shipped potato aquavit to the East Indies. Here people were totally uninterested in buying it, so the aquavit was sailed back to Norway. On its arrival in 1807, it was discovered that the sea voyage had vastly improved the taste.’
• Brown cheese Made by simmering a by-product of the cheese-making process (whey), then sliced and served on bread or crackers, sweet and salty brown cheese is an iconic lunch or breakfast accompaniment.

Plant-based options

Vegetarians and vegans will have nothing to be concerned about in cities like Oslo and Bergen, but we recommend stocking up on food in a supermarket if you’re traveling outside of the major cities, just in case you have trouble finding options on restaurant menus. Traveling with a local who speaks the language makes this all a lot easier. If you travel with Intrepid, you’ll have a local leader who can help you decipher menus and recommend plant-based choices.

Geography and environment

Sharing borders with   Sweden ,   Russia   and   Finland , Norway occupies the northern corner of the Scandinavian Peninsula, with the North Sea, Norwegian Sea and Barents Sea hugging the rugged northern, southern and western sides of the country.

Swaths of Norway sit within the Arctic Circle, including the popular mainland city of Tromso and the Svalbard archipelago. Due to its proximity to the   Arctic , large parts of Norway experience a subarctic marine climate, with cold winters and cool summers, as well as midnight sun and the Northern Lights.

Norway possesses more than 50,000 islands. These protect the rest of the country from North Atlantic storms, which is useful given the country’s proximity to the   Arctic . With a total of less than 10 percent of the land suitable for growing crops, things are already tough enough. 

The country's western fjord system is perhaps its most well-known landmark – or series of more than 1000 landmarks, to be accurate. Formed by retreating or melting glaciers, these deep ravines are now a symbol of Norway’s beauty and the country’s leading tourist attraction.

In a country where the great outdoors is a way of life, you’ll find less opportunities to buy trinkets and mementos in Norway than in other places. That being said, there are a couple of keepsakes and gifts to look out for while you’re there, namely items that represent the weird and wonderful folklore and traditions of this Scandinavian nation.

Solje jewelry

This silver jewelry is meant to keep the wearer safe from evil and monsters. Traditional solje jewelry comes in the form of brooches and necklaces that can be attached to bunad (folk) costumes. Does it work? Well, do you see any trolls around? Exactly.

Items adorned with rosemaling – delicate, floral folk art – make perfect gifts or decorative souvenirs. Practiced since the mid-18th century, rosemaling emerged when poor, traveling artists and muralists from Norway encountered the elaborate styles popular in Italy and France at the time.

It’s hard to overstate the importance of trolls in Norwegian (and wider Scandinavian) culture and folklore. These humanoid, mountain or forest-dwelling monsters are sometimes huge and sometimes tiny, but almost always up to some kind of mischief and trickery. Troll dolls, troll mugs, troll tea towels, troll underwear (why not?) and more are for sale throughout the country. It may seem a little touristy, but even locals keep figurines of these hideous creatures around the house for luck.

Festivals and events

Did you really think that the descendants of Vikings wouldn't know how to hold a celebration? Thankfully, modern Norwegians are more inclined to celebrate things like music and art, rather than seafaring raids, and these are some of the best:

Oya Festival

A summer festival that usually takes places in Oslo, Oya features artists – both local and international – from a number of genres performing in the great outdoors. This is a classic European music festival with a sustainable twist – you can dance to music powered by renewable energy while munching street food served on edible, biodegradable plates. 

Northern Lights Festival

Listen to compositional music performed in Tromso’s historic and modern architectural wonders. Timed to coincide with the Northern Lights (hence the name), this mid- to late-winter festival is a stalwart of Tromso’s impressive cultural calendar.

Bergenfest 

Bergenfest   is a five-day open-air music festival located in the stone walls of Bergenhaus Fortress in the UNESCO World-Heritage listed city of Bergen. It's one of Norway’s oldest, biggest and boldest music festivals featuring an eclectic lineup of electronic, pop, country, experimental, jazz, blues, rock and more.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Norway adventure, check out these books:

• The Almost Nearly Perfect People: The Truth About the Nordic Miracle   – Michael Booth
• Heimskringla   – Snorri Sturluson
• Growth of Soil  – Knut Hamsun
• The Ice Palace   – Tarjei Vesaas
• The Half Brother   – Lars Saabye Christensen
• Munch   – Steffen Kverneland
• The Snowman   – Jo Nesbo
• Into the Ice: The History of Norway and the Polar Regions   – Einar-Arne Drivenes and Harald Day Jolle

Norway travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Norway?

When deciding the best time for you to visit Norway, the main factors to consider are your tolerance for the cold and what you want to see most.

While the joys of the high summer are self-evident – long days! Mild weather! – both international and local tourists flock to Norway’s fjords and hiking trails during June and July. If you want to hike all day, stay up all night (because the sun pretty much doesn’t set) and don’t mind rubbing shoulders with other travelers, this could be the ideal time for you.

Winter in Norway is cold. November, December and January see average daylight temperatures between 30°F and 39°F (-1°C and 4°C) with the sun setting in the afternoon. That said, this is the only time of the year that you can glimpse the stunning Northern Lights. Even if you don’t see Aurora Borealis (you’ll have more luck the further north you go), the festivity of Christmas and the snow-covered mountains make winter a magical season to visit.

Spring and autumn are both crisp in terms of temperature. Think about 50°F (10°C) in May and September. These shoulder seasons may offer a good way to split the difference between winter and summer if you can handle a little bit of cold and a little bit of a crowd, but not too much of either. Just be aware that spring is the rainy season and pack accordingly.

Do I need a visa to travel to Norway?

Visas for Denmark , Norway,   Sweden   and   Finland  are not required for passport holders of the European Union,   Australia ,   New Zealand , the   USA   and   Canada   who plan to visit for 90 days or less. Please note that random passport checks occasionally happen at European borders and you will need at least six months validity on your passport to enter the country overland.

All other nationalities should check with the Norwegian embassy or consulate closest to them for information.

Is tipping customary in Norway?

Part of what contributes to Norway’s reputation as an expensive nation for visitors (but not locals) is that most workers, including waitstaff, are paid union-approved liveable wages. 

Because of this, tipping in Norway is not commonplace and is generally left up to the discretion of the customer. If the service in a mid- to high-end restaurant is particularly good, feel free to round up the bill.

What is the internet access like in Norway?

Internet access in Norway is fantastic, with almost 100 percent of the country having access to a connection. In Norway's major cities and towns, travelers will be able to access the internet on their phones with global roaming switched on (be careful of charges) and at cafes and free wi-fi hot spots. Even more remote and rural areas will have internet availability, though in towns like Tromso and Trondheim it may be a slow connection.

Can I use my cell phone while in Norway?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Norway. If you want to use your cell phone, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur).

What are the toilets like in Norway?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the standard in Norway.

What will it cost for a...?

Norway's unit of currency is the krone. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

Cup of coffee in a cafe = USD 3–4

500 ml beer in a bar = USD 10–13 

Takeaway supermarket sandwich = USD 10

Meal in a mid-range restaurant = USD 25–30

Can I drink the water in Norway?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Norway. In fact, it’s some of the best-tasting tap water in the world so pack a reusable bottle and take advantage. It’s always considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Norway?

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops and hotels. Smaller vendors may not accept credit cards, so carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Norway?

ATMs are commonly found in Norway's cities and urban areas. Remote regions will have less ATM availability, so prepare accordingly before traveling away from cities.

What is the weather like in Norway?

The climate in Norway is noticeably warmer than what would otherwise be expected at such a high latitude because of the Gulf Stream. Summer temperatures can reach up to 86°F, even in northern areas, but only for limited periods. The length of the winter and amount of snow varies around the country. There is more snow in the north and the winters are dark; on the southern and western coasts, winters are moderate and rainy, while further inland the temperature can get below -13°F. March, April, October and November tend to be the rainiest months. Snow usually starts to fall in October or November in the northern areas (and in higher altitudes) and generally melts by the end of April. The Northern Lights are visible from parts of Norway, with September to April usually presenting the optimal conditions for viewing.

What public holidays are celebrated in Norway?

1 January  New Year’s Day

March/April  Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday *

1 May  Labor Day

17 May  Constitution Day

May/June  Ascension Day *

May/June  Whit Sunday and Whit Monday *

25 December  Christmas Day

26 December  Boxing Day

*Please note these dates may vary. See the current list of public holidays in Norway.

Is Norway a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2009 and citizens have had the legal right to self determine their gender since 2016. Norway has strong anti-discrimination laws regarding LGBTQIA+ individuals and public opinion on LGBTQIA+ people is overwhelmingly positive.

You can find visible queer scenes in all the midsize to large cities. Oslo’s is the biggest and the official Oslo tourism website even has a section dedicated to   queer spaces and events   in the city. In other large cities, like Bergen, you’ll find no shortage of LGBTQIA+ friendly spaces, though fewer that cater to specific sexualities and genders.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Norway accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Norway is a fairly accessible destination for people with restricted mobility and other disabilities and is actively working to be more accessible every day. In general, travelers with mobility or other restrictions should be aware that the weather can adversely affect accessible travel in Norway. During December, January and February, snow and ice can make even the most well-maintained sidewalk difficult to navigate. 

New buildings are required to be accessible to wheelchair users, however many older buildings may not be accessible. Public buildings like museums that are not totally accessible will often have assistance buttons at their entrances that direct a member of staff to help you enter the building.  Public transport is a mixed bag. While new trams, trains and stations are accessible to wheelchair users, some are not. If you’re traveling on a regional train,   Tourism Norway   recommends calling the train carrier at least 24 hours before your journey to ensure you will be accommodated. The boats that we use for cruising fjords in Norway are accessible to wheelchair users.

Metro trains, trams and buses in Norway are outfitted with PA systems that can be of assistance to travelers with restricted vision. Many trains, buses and trams in major cities will also have screens helpful to travelers with restricted hearing. Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should consider bringing a stash of extra batteries or familiarizing themselves with the Norwegian equivalent of the batteries their devices need.

If you have a disability and are planning to travel with Intrepid, we recommend speaking with your booking agent about specific concerns that pertain to accessibility.

Is it expensive to travel in Norway?

The perception of Norway as a prohibitively expensive country stops a lot of folks from booking a journey, despite how badly they want to see the country’s incredible landscapes.

For locals, the cost of most goods and services aren’t that expensive relative to wages. However, there is no denying that Norway is more expensive for travelers than many destinations in Europe and will require more thoughtful budgeting than a trip to, say, Romania.

Prices of basic items like metro tickets, beer and takeaway meals will likely be higher than you would normally pay at home. There are, however, ways of making a trip to Norway a little easier on your bank account. Shopping at supermarkets for lunch instead of dining out, traveling with a reusable water bottle and limiting your alcohol consumption are just a few.

Our trips in Norway tend to be light on included meals so that you can decide whether you’d prefer to grab a supermarket sandwich for lunch or sit down to eat somewhere. You’ll also have the benefit of a local leader to help you find deals and a well thought out itinerary, which means less chance for expensive impulse buys. 

Embracing friluftsliv, a Norwegian word that loosely translates as a way of life that prioritizes time spent in nature, is the best way to reduce the cost of your trip. Basically, if you’re after an adventure where you can eat world-class cuisine all day and party all night, Norway might not be the right destination for you right now. But if you’re interested in unforgettable views, catching sight of the Northern Lights or hiking under the midnight sun, Norway may just be the best travel experience you’ve ever had.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

The best time to go to Norway in 2024

Mar 18, 2024 • 5 min read

The best time to visit Norway will depend on what you want to do when you get there © Everste / Getty Images

Norway is known for its spectacular landscapes and, as one of the most beautiful countries on the planet, there's no such thing as a bad time to visit.

However, certain seasons will impact the many big attractions and experiences on offer – prioritizing what you want to do and understanding these seasonal differences will be key to planning your trip.

Summer is the most popular time to visit: it has the best weather, long hours of daylight, prices are generally cheaper and everything’s open. Winter is a magical and popular time to visit if you’re on a quest to see the northern lights. And for those looking to follow their own path along quiet roads to find a Norway stripped of all tourist hype, spring and autumn may be for you.

Here's everything you need to know about picking the best time to visit for your trip to  Norway .

June to August is the best time for good weather and cheaper prices

There is no better time to visit Norway than in summer. Let’s start with the weather. This being a Scandinavian country with much of its territory within the Arctic Circle, we can’t guarantee sunshine every single day, but from June to August, clear, mild days with a piercing blue sky are the norm. This is the best time to see the fjords, the Lofoten Islands or Svalbard at their most pristine and glorious.

Summer days here seem to last forever: north of the Arctic Circle, there is at least one day every year when the sun never sets. The further north you go, the more of these days you get. Even in Norway’s south, there’s no such thing as complete darkness throughout summer as the sun’s light from just below the horizon bathes the night hours in a sepulchral glow.

Summer is, of course, high season in Norway. This can mean that everything – from all roads and campgrounds to tourist attractions like boat cruises on the fjords – gets busy. This is also when most of the festivals happen, and when the majority of locals take to the roads. But traveling at this time comes with an unexpected bonus: unlike high seasons just about everywhere else, high season in Norway means cheaper accommodation prices. While this may sound counterintuitive, the reason is simple: Norway is one of the most expensive countries on earth, and the only people traveling at other times are business travelers on expense accounts. In other words, prices drop so that tourists can afford to travel.

There is one further advantage to traveling in Norway in the summer. For much of the year, Norway’s wild landscapes are susceptible to the kind of unpredictable weather you just don’t want to get caught up in. With that in mind, the hiking season  only runs for the three summer months every year. It’s also the best (and, in some cases, the only) time for cycling, white-water rafting and whale-watching off the coast of Vesterålen .

December to February is the best time for the northern lights

Summer may open up a whole world of possibilities but the Norwegian winter has a special (and increasingly popular) call all its own. This is the time of year when the northern lights dance across the sky in great curtains and cascades of shape-shifting colored light. Truly one of the natural world’s greatest spectacles, the aurora borealis happens year-round, but Norway’s long winter nights provide the perfect conditions in which to see them.

Yes, you need clear skies, which is never something that can be guaranteed in the depths of a Norwegian winter. And you never quite know when or where they’re going to appear. But when they do, it’s the kind of experience that lingers in your memory with all of the magic of a fairy tale coming to life.

Winter is also when the polar night descends upon the country, casting it into darkness for months at a time; the sun doesn’t even appear above the horizon from late October to mid-February in Svalbard’s Longyearbyen . But seeing the country at this perspective-altering time can be almost as memorable as seeing the northern lights. If you’re lucky, you’ll experience both.

When the sun is shining in winter, as it does surprisingly often wherever daylight occurs, the snows that cover much of the country transform Norway into a land of singular and spectacular beauty. Even in the iciest conditions, most of Norway’s roads remain open throughout winter, and elsewhere Norwegians take to the paths – whether to the local shops or out into the wilderness – on cross-country skis. If you’re not inclined to join them, there’s always dog-sledding, ice hotels and snowmobiling for those looking to immerse themselves in Norway’s frozen winter world.

March to May and September to November are the best times for quiet roads

With so much going on in summer and winter, Norway falls relatively quiet during the spring and fall months. And therein lies the appeal of visiting at this time. Beyond city limits, Norway’s roads are quieter by a near-exponential magnitude. It’s also easier to come by your favorite hotel booking, while weekend accommodation prices can be the same as those seen otherwise only in summer.

If you time your visit right and visit in late spring (May, for example) or early autumn (September), you might also enjoy some of the benefits of summer – cheaper hotels, hiking trails still open – but without the crowds to share them with.

And yet, perhaps the greatest benefit of traveling at this time is something less tangible. In many ways, this is an ideal time to observe Norway, to look through a window into the world of local life as it goes quietly about its business. It can be a far (and deeply satisfying) cry from the world of busy tourist attractions and carefree summer months.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated March 2024

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Norway Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Norway. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Carnival and Mardi Gras June 30, 2021 This notice has been removed. Destination List: Lithuania, Malta, North Macedonia, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, United States

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Norway. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Norway.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Norway is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas

TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.

TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found. 

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Norway, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although Norway is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Norway include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Norway’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Norway, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Norway for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Find cheap flights to Norway from $173

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to norway departing on 8/26. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to norway.

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Best Norway Flight Deals

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Good to know

Faqs - booking norway flights, do airports in norway offer accessibility services to passengers with limited mobility.

Oslo Gardermoen, in Norway, is one of the best airports in Europe, offering care services to passengers with special needs. If you have limited mobility, the airport is configured to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility through facilities like accessible restrooms throughout the terminal. If you require a loaner wheelchair, ensure you request for same with your airline at least 48 hours before your travel date. You can take your wheelchair past security to the gates and aircraft doors. You can request accessibility assistance as well for ease of movement on your travel date.

Can I rent a car at Norway airports?

One of the ideal ways to get through the different parts of Norway is by renting a vehicle. When you fly into the country's airports, you can rent vehicles from the airports; there are on-site agencies that offer rental services to passengers needing the services. Most airport agencies are Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and SIXT. To rent a vehicle in Norway, you must be above 21 years old and a valid driver's license holder for at least a year.

Do Norway airports allow travelers to carry pets?

If you plan on traveling with your pet to Norway, three significant airports allow pets on the property. You could fly from the US to Oslo Gardermoen, Trondheim Værnes, or Bergen Flesland (BGO). Norwegian Air, the leading airline serving Norway, allows guests to bring up to two or three small pets in the cabins. The pets must be at least eight weeks old, and their combined weight with the carrier, about 17 lbs. traveling with a pet will cost you some additional fee.

Which airport in Norway should I fly into to access the fjords?

When visiting Norway, you can take advantage of the fjords as the country has the highest concentration worldwide. You can visit any of the fjords in the country. To access them, fly into Bergen International Airport (BGO), the leading international airport closest to the fjords. You can drive to the fjords from the airport or, for a cheaper means, join the fjord cruise with eco-friendly travel packages by local transit. To appreciate the beauty of the fjords, take a Flam Railway and Bergen Line train to the fjords from the airport.

Do I need a visa to enter Norway?

Norway is part of the Schengen area of Europe, which means that US nationals can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. However, the 90 days apply to the entire Schengen area, which includes most of the countries in western Europe.

Are there nonstop flights to Norway?

Nonstop flights are frequent from the United States to two of the major international airports in Norway: Oslo Airport (OSL) in the east and Bergen Airport (BGO) in the west. These flights can be found from major US cities, including New York, Fort Lauderdale, Oakland, Orlando and Los Angeles.

Where should I fly to if I want to visit Sognefjord?

Sognefjord, one of the most popular natural attractions of Norway, is most popularly visited by boat. If you’ll be traveling exclusively throughout western Norway, you can simply fly into Bergen and take a fjord cruise directly from the port. Many of these cruises stop at small villages along the way, making them a handy way to see much of the western coast.

Which city should I fly to for the ferry to Denmark?

Traveling around Scandinavia by ferry is popular due to the number of islands, and Norway is no exception. If you’re traveling on to Denmark after your time in Norway, you can board ferries to one of three ports in Denmark from the ports in Oslo, Bergen, Kristiansand, Larvik, Langesund and Stavanger, Norway.

How long is the flight to Norway?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Norway takes 12h 51m, covering a distance of 4354 miles. The most popular route is Newark - Oslo with an average flight time of 7h 25m.

What is the cheapest flight to Norway?

The cheapest ticket to Norway from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $125 one-way, and $322 round-trip. The most popular route is Newark to Oslo Gardermoen and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $464.

Which airlines fly to Norway?

Scandinavian Airlines & Norse Atlantic Airways fly the most frequently from the United States to Norway. The most popular route is from New York to Oslo, and Scandinavian Airlines flies this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Norway?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Oslo (85% of total searches to Norway). The next most popular destinations are Bergen (8%) and Tromsø (2%). Searches for flights to Stavanger (2%), to Trondheim (1%) and to Ålesund (0.6%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Norway

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Norway flight deals.
• Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) is the leading international airport in Norway, serving the country's capital, Oslo, and most parts of eastern Norway. OSL is about 25 miles (40 km) from north Oslo. Torp Sandefjord Airport (TRF), about 68 miles (110 km) south of Oslo, is a good alternative for flying to Oslo.
• Norway is served by the Norwegian Air Shuttle. This low-cost airline has Oslo Lufthavn international airport as its hub. When flying Norwegian Air, consider landing in OSL.
• When traveling to Norway from any part of the US, consider flying into Oslo Gardermoen Airport compared to Torp Sandefjord Airport, as the former serves many international flights from the US compared to TRF.
• Norway holds several events throughout the year. If you are traveling around June, the country holds a four-day Norwegian Wood Festival, while January to February is the Northern Lights Festival. The country has otter events spread throughout the year. Beware of flying into country-specific cities during events, as airport traffic may be slower.
• Out of all Norway's airports, Oslo Airport is the largest airport and is the one that handles about half of the air traffic in the country. For convenience, you can land in OSL from the US.
• When booking your flight to Norway from the United States, you’ll have a few different airports to choose from. Oslo Airport (OSL) sees most of Norway’s international air traffic, but there are also flights from the US available to cities in northern and western Norway, including Trondheim and Bergen.
• The only accepted currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone. While carrying a little bit of local currency is recommended, US debit and credit cards are widely accepted throughout Norway, even outside of the bigger cities like Oslo and Bergen. If you need cash, ATMs are available in both big cities and smaller towns.
• The entire country of Norway is only serviced by a few airports, which means that traveling throughout central Norway isn’t something that can be accomplished by plane. To explore this part of the country, or to transfer to and from the airport to your accommodation in central Norway, there is a dense network of regional and InterCity trains, as well as regional and long-distance buses with varied and frequent routes.
• Whether you’re flying into Oslo and later traveling to Bergen or the other way around, you’ll have several different regional flights to choose from. The route between these two cities is a popular one, and it’s served by three main regional airlines that feature flights several times per day: Scandinavian Airlines, Widerøe and Norwegian.
• If you’re one of the travelers looking to hike the famous Trolltunga rock formation in Norway, your best bet is to fly into Bergen. After your flight lands, you’ll need to either drive or take a bus to the city of Odda. From Odda, you can catch a shuttle bus operated by either Odda Taxi or Taxi/Bus Odda to the trailheads leading up to Trolltunga.

Top 5 airlines flying to Norway

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

This flight was ridiculous. I had to have a connecting flight from New York to orlando Florida??? The flight left late and because it was a short flight there was no first class amenities. I had one alcohol drink. The flight crew was fine, but it sure did not feel like first class. Delta to me dropped the ball by giving me a connecting flight. By the time we got to Raleigh we would have missed the next flight. Lucky for me the flight never came so now I was stuck waiting for a later flight that came in late also.

Our flight was delayed in Atlanta. The staff could have gave us an explanation for the delay and how long it would be.

I liked the ease of checking in, luggage check in, wheel chair assistance, boarding and flight.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

They did a fine job. Can't wait to use Delta in the future.

There was a loud squeaky sound the whole time we were flying.

Had a broken tray in business class. Crew just shrugged it off.

Overall a good experience. We were disappointed when we had to check our carry on due to the plane being full. KLM hadn’t notified us and we had valuable items in the carry on but they still made us check it. Some of the food was great and some was mediocre. Crew is really kind and funny.

I travel frequently. The flight was late again... KLM should really try and be on time

The plane was clean and the staff was friendly. Food and drinks as expected on international flights. The entertainment system was old style, with a pullout controller, and selections not as extensive as on other flights.

One of their staff was so rude with discriminative. Such a reputed airline shouldn't hire such kind of arrogant attendants.

The boarding was one of the worst I’ve ever experienced. The fault lays on Ohare Airport and not so much the airline. The waiting area by the gate was the size to accommodate a regional flight for 20-30 people and right next to a busy walkway. When you cramped nearly 300 passengers into that space is was unbearable.

The seats are too cramped in that plane. If you’re above 1,80m consider alternatives or first class I guess… There were no emergency exits to seat somewhere with more legroom

TERRIBLE! Staff was unfriendly, rude, and demeaning. One flight attendant touched me to grab the complimentary blanket off my neck because I couldn't take it home, while a bunch of other people took theirs home. I have never been so ill treated. I am not happy at all. And flight was delayed, no information until short notice for everything. Lost an entire day at my destination. I expect a full refund for that experience. Never will fly with them EVER again

My return flight has been changed to JFK from EWR without any notice or reason

They lost my luggage. Tromso in winter without warm clothes is not fun.

The flight was on time and loading was fine. I really disliked that all drinks other than coffee or tea had a cost. Deplaning was also an issue as people did not wait for those in front of them to get out before they pushed forward

Flight was delayed 3 hours. Pilot cancelled flight under 4 people volunteered to change their seats to economy from business class.

Overall, this flight team did a fantastic job. They came often with the water, coffee and tea. There was no meal choice in coach, but the lasagna lunch was decent. The sandwich snack just before landing was tasty. The baggage bins were large, so no trouble holding carry on luggage.

My seat was not the one I paid for, the crew was very curt, and the cabin was extremely warm.

Old plane with terrible business class seats - good food and service. Boarding was a joke with business class boarding last.

Best airline to travel on a budget- really like their reasonably priced access to the SAS lounges where available.

The flight was cancelled early on and messed up the whole vacation and hard to get a refund from Kayak as they owned the ticket and of course they did not believe that SAS cancelled the ticket. Definite bad side to third party. SAS had rescheduled but overlapped the connecting flights. That did not work. Flight was cancelled long ago but Kayak still has it. Like it was taken? Bad IT ? Or all assumptions and no follow up which is the whole IT world. It needs to wake up and be more efficient. Especially as the world is going, there will be no freedom to do anything. And we will be living like the Middle Ages. Yeah, go read up on that while you still can.

I will never fly this airline again. Checking in was poor , we had to go back to the check in counter at Raleigh - Durham international airport three times because they didn’t issue my boarding pass but rather duplicated my husband’s twice which caused a big headache at the passport control at the airport which triggered security alert and wouldn’t let us pass through we we had to wait for long time to be able to explain and clear everything after talking to the supervisor.. No food on the plane , not even crackers. No food was offered to buy ether . No ear phone was provided . Very little time to make from one plane to another and nobody to assist with smooth transition. Flight itself , we felt safe so thank you to the pilots . But customer service was terrible . We spent $ 2500 on 2 tickets, so I cannot say that service was consistent with the price .

Seats are way too much now with these new airplanes especially long flights like we had. I was 7 month pregnant and in a lot of discomfort due to small seats.

Food was horrible. This wasn’t business class. No leg space, can’t sleep in row position, huge delay

I liked how easy my transfers between flights in Keflavik were. I would have appreciated more food options in Keflavik.

The plane was flaming hot! Could not breathe. Everyone coughing from heat. Awful.

My biggest problem was the flight from KEF to DUB was delayed, which caused me to miss my connecting flight in DUB and we were forced into an unplanned 10-hour layover in DUB. Crew and boarding staff were all very friendly but this was a real inconvenience and especially uncomfortable for my disabled wife.

Not much! This was my first flight with Iceland air and unfortunately it wasn’t what I have expected. My luggage is lost nothing as of yet where it was left. Not a good service at all!!

The seat size was more like a domestic than an international flight. In fact, i would compare the ammenities, quality and service to a short hall ryan air flight, which was unexpected for an international flight. The plane was extremely hot so sleeping was difficult. My biggest complaint was that they are very strict on carry on luggage only allowing it to weigh 10kg/22lb. I try to limit myself to a carryon so i don't have to mess with bagage claim, but the wieght restriction made it impossible. I have never had a carry on weight restriction (at least enforced) on an international flight. Will not be including them in future searches.

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

My baggage did not arrived with me. Took 3 days to get it after so may calls and follow up

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Terrible. Flight was 3 hours delayed and I missed my other flight to my final destination

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Not sure if the crew were experiencing something unknown to me,but the service of passing water was non-existent.In addition,please take consideration when providing yogurt as alternative for breakfast as some of us, could be lactose intolerant.. thanks

Very cramped seats in economy, difficult to get comfortable with your legs and feet and back. The seat width is ok but I’m average size. Food is HORRIBLE. Crew is friendly. Delays and very tight connections made it tough for navigating. We would have missed our connecting flight if it wasn’t delayed too. The terminal transit was slow and normally every 10 minutes before 8pm, after 8 pm is every 30 minutes!!!!! No free wine or drinks!! Below average attitude.

Leg room was better than expected. Lavatory’s were easy to access.crew was grea!

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Traveling To Norway From The US: Norway Travel Restriction

Last Updated : 28 Apr 2024

Last Updated : 28 Apr 2024 at

Norway is my number one destination. Everything about the country is magical, including its remarkable fjords, lakes, and obviously the Northern Lights. It's so easy for US citizens to travel to this magical country.

Let's take a look at how US citizens can travel to Norway, starting with:

Do U.S. Citizens Need A Visa To Travel To Norway?

No, U.S. citizens don't need a visa to visit Norway for up to 90 days , (much like the United Kingdom ). This means that you can travel to Norway with just your passport because of the visa exemptions. However, at the end of 2023, U.S citizens who want to travel to Norway must apply for a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

What Is A ETIAS Norway For U.S. Citizens?

Do i need a etias for norway.

Tourists and business travelers from the U.S. will soon need to apply for ETIAS to visit Norway. ETIAS is valid for Norway and the 25 other countries in the Schengen Area. From 2023, American passport holders will be able to get ETIAS for Norway online. The application is quick and straightforward.

With ETIAS, U.S. visitors can stay in Norway or anywhere else in the Schengen Area for 90 days per 180-day period. ETIAS is valid for multiple trips to Norway during its 3-year validity period.

Yes, every U.S. citizen must apply for an ETIAS for Norway from November 2023. If you want to know more about ETIAS and how it works, go to the Atlys webpage , everything you need to know about ETIAS is in that post. Including how to apply.

Do U.S. Green Card Holders Need A Visa To Visit Norway?

If you're from a country with visa-free travel to Norway, you don't need to apply for a Norway Visa, but if you're not from a country that enjoys visa-free travel, you need to apply for a Norway Visa.

What Are The Schengen Visa Requirements For US Greencard Holders And Permanent Residents?

To apply for a Schengen visa in the US, you need to submit the following travel documents:

Visa application form – completely fulfilled with the required information. You can get the application form online or at a U.S. Embassy.

A valid passport or Travel document with two blank pages.

US residence permit. Original of valid US alien registration card (residence permit aka. Green Card).

Photo – taken within the last three months.

A cover letter. You explain the reasons you wish to enter the Schengen Zone, the countries you are planning to visit, the amount of time you wish to spend in each, and other details about your trip.

Round-trip Flight Itinerary.

Proof of accommodation in Europe (hotel booking).

A document that proves you have enough money to financially support yourself during your stay in Europe.

Europe Travel Health Insurance.

What Are The Required Documents For Norway For US Citizens?

The required documents for traveling to Norway are very straightforward. All you need to enter Norway as a U.S. citizen is your US passport , valid for the length of your stay. I also recommend having your return flight ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Norway (bank statements). Although it's not always necessary, rather be safe than sorry.

I'll also share which documents you'll need for an ETIAS for Norway when the time comes. You'll need a valid passport (valid for the length of your stay) and a valid ETIAS waiver for Norway .

What Are The Covid-19 Entry Requirements For Norway?

The pandemic is an ever-changing thing. Unfortunately, we don't have any control over it. That's why I'm going to update you on the covid-19 entry requirements for Norway as it is today.

As of February 2022, the Norwegian Government lifted all the travel restrictions upon entering Norway. This includes regulations like:

Wearing a face mask (includes public transportation and airports).

Social distancing.

The duty to go into isolation when you're sick.

Only adults with symptoms need to test.

Provide a negative Covid-19 test before arrival. However, some covid-19 rules for Svalbard are still active.

Travelers should be careful when traveling to Svalbard unvaccinated. Remember that the restrictions can change at any given moment, keep up to date on the Covid-19 regulations for Norway

Advice For The Population

At the beginning of the pandemic, we heard about everything we needed to do to protect ourselves from coronavirus. Although covid restrictions are eased, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still recommends the following:

Practice good hand and cough hygiene.

Follow the COVID-19 vaccination program.

Get tested if you develop symptoms. Children are exempt from this. It is no longer necessary to get tested if you don't have symptoms, even if you're in close contact with a person with COVID-19.

Stay home if you develop new respiratory symptoms and feel sick. You should stay home until you feel well and until you're fever-free for 24 hours. Mild residual symptoms like a runny nose, hoarseness, or some coughing are acceptable

If you receive a positive COVID-19 test (rapid or PCR test), stay home for 4 days from the onset of symptoms or from the date of your positive test if you have no symptoms. Children are exempt from testing but are recommended to stay home if they are sick. They can return to kindergarten or school once fever-free for 24 hours.

Please contact your doctor if you are concerned about your health or your child.

If you're not vaccinated , they recommend that you avoid large groups or get vaccinated to receive a vaccination certificate to stay safe and healthy.

What Are The Covid-19 Entry Requirements For The United States?

Although Norway has no covid-19 entry requirements or entry restrictions, when you travel back to the United States, you need to show and do a few things before you can enter. Before boarding a flight to the United States, you must show a negative COVID-19 test result (not proof of vaccination) taken no more than 1 day before travel. There is also an option for people who have documented recovery from COVID-19 in the past 90 days.

Children under 2 years old do not need to test.

All air passengers (international travelers) to the United States must also provide contact information to airlines before boarding flights to the United States. This strengthens the travel process to rapidly identify and contact people in the U.S. exposed to an infectious disease, such as COVID-19. In addition, access to travelers’ contact information will allow U.S. federal, state, and local health departments and agencies to share appropriate health and public health information necessary to help keep the public safe.

What Covid-19 Restrictions Should I Follow After I Arrive In The US?

After you arrive in the US, there's a possibility that you were exposed to Covid-19. You might feel well and show no symptoms, but you can still infect other people.

Therefore, you need to do the following:

If you're not up to date with your Covid-19 vaccinations, stay home and self-isolate for 5 days.

All travelers, regardless of your vaccination status: Get tested for covid-19, self-monitor and test if you develop symptoms.

Remember that the covid-19 restrictions change, so keep up to date with the covid-19 restrictions for the United States .

I really recommend you visit this great country. My time in Norway is truly some of the greatest memories I have, and now you can go and make some memories of your own! So grab your passport (because that's all it takes) and experience the fresh air of the mountains, the great arctic villages of Norway or visit Bergen which always has some kind of event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on your purpose and length of visit in Europe – some specifications further clarify which Norwegian Embassy or Consulate in the US you should apply to.

If visiting one Schengen country: You must apply at the Norwegian Embassy or Consulate representing the particular country of your destination.

If visiting more than one Schengen country: You must apply at the Embassy or Consulate representing the country of your leading destination (the country of longest stay).

If visiting more than one Schengen country with equal stay duration: You must apply at the Embassy or Consulate representing the Schengen country you will enter first.

If you intend to stay in the Schengen Area for over 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa, not a Schengen visa.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
• The World's Top Treehouse Hotels
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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