The best places to visit in Norway in 2024
Mar 14, 2024 • 8 min read
Stunning culture-filled cities are tucked away in Norway's incredible landscapes © BlueOrange Studio / Shutterstock
Simply put, Norway is spectacular. Along the west coast, shimmering blue fjords carve deep into the interior, with picture-perfect villages hugging the shores and gravity-defying farms clinging to the steep slopes above. Elsewhere, the coastline is less dramatic but still stunning with white-painted towns and countless islands, while interior Norway has some of Europe’s wildest, most beautiful mountains, interspersed with green agricultural valleys and stretches of deep forest.
Almost anywhere you go in Norway you’ll find scenery to take your breath away and abundant activities to inspire you. Here are the best places to visit in 2024.
Best for museums and architecture
Norway’s energetic, innovative capital boasts top-notch historical and cultural museums, a creative food scene, and cutting-edge architecture such as the striking new Munch Museum and the iconic opera house, designed to resemble a glacier. A stroll along the new waterfront promenade is a great way to get a close-up look at Oslo’s evolving cityscape. And after a year-long renovation the Nobel Peace Center reopened in November 2023 .
Planning tip : One of Oslo’s top attractions, the Viking Ship Museum , is closed until 2026, but the Fram Museum is another great ship-centered attraction that tells the fascinating story of Norwegian polar exploration.
2. Lofoten Islands
Best for astonishing Arctic beauty
The Lofoten archipelago is vivid, dramatic, and irresistibly photogenic, with jagged mountains rising from the sea and colorful villages hugging rocky shores that are moss-green in summer and blanketed in pristine snow in winter. Come for the hiking, the kayaking, the arts scene, the history, the wildlife, the seafood, or just to admire the incredible views on this outer edge of northern Norway. In summer, there’s almost endless daylight, while in winter, the aurora borealis often shimmer overhead in undulating waves of green, yellow, red, and purple.
3. Jotunheimen
Best for hiking and trekking
Home to Norway’s 29 highest summits, plus hundreds of other peaks over 2,000 meters, Jotunheimen – whose name means “home of the giants” – is rugged, wild, and an irresistible lure for hikers and climbers. Base yourself in a mountain lodge or cabin and go for day hikes, or embark on a multi-day wilderness trek through incomparable scenery. Much of the region is protected within Jotunheimen National Park , which is within easy reach of the fjord region and several cities.
Planning tip : Join the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) for discounts and special access to a large network of staffed lodges and unstaffed cabins throughout Norway, including many in and around Jotunheimen.
4. Sognefjord
Best for stave churches and pretty fjordside villages
The longest and deepest fjord, the Sognefjord carves into the interior from the west coast to the edge of Jotunheimen. Its many scenic arms include the stunning UNESCO–listed Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Several of Norway’s 28 surviving medieval stave churches are located around Sognefjord, including two of the most impressive, Urnes and Borgund. Also around the fjord are picturesque villages such as Fjærland, the book town; idyllic Solvorn; Undredal, known for its goat cheese; and Flåm, the lower terminus of the scenic Flåm Railway.
Planning tip : Sightseeing cruises on the UNESCO fjords operate between Flåm and Gudvangen, connecting to a bus to complete the round trip. If you’re driving another option is to take the car ferry between Kaupanger and Gudvangen.
5. Hardangerfjord
Best for waterfalls and cider
Norway’s second-longest fjord, the Hardangerfjord is known for its fruit orchards and many spectacular waterfalls. There are endless things to do here, from kayaking peaceful inlets to cycling the fjordside roads, hiking up to isolated Kjesåsen Farm, or trekking onto the glaciers of Folgefonna National Park. The Hardangerfjord is gorgeous at any time of year, but mid-May to mid-June brings an additional layer of beauty with the blossoming of the region’s many apple and cherry trees. Be sure to sample some of the locally produced cider and juice while you’re here.
Planning tip : Norled’s fast passenger ferry runs from April through October, making it possible to travel between destinations around the Hardangerfjord without a car. There are also a few car ferries that you can walk aboard for free.
Best mix of urban attractions and outdoor recreation
Norway’s second-largest city is a charmer, starting with its UNESCO-listed waterfront district, Bryggen, a delightful warren of colorful wooden buildings and narrow alleyways where merchants from the powerful medieval Hanseatic League once held sway. Though framed by mountains – there’s wonderful hiking within easy reach – Bergen is very much a maritime city, as reflected in its vibrant restaurant scene highlighting fresh fish and seafood.
Planning tip : The Bergen Card offers free or discounted admission to many of Bergen’s excellent museums and other attractions, as well as tours and transportation.
7. Geiranger
Best for panoramic fjord views
The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord is another of Norway’s most beautiful fjords, with sheer walls, impressive waterfalls, and abandoned farms clinging to high cliffs. The ferry journey between Geiranger and the quieter village of Hellesylt is stunning, as is the land approach to Geiranger from the north on Route 63, Ørnevegen (the Eagle Road), which makes 11 hairpin turns as it winds down the mountainside. Stop at Ørnesvingen, the highest switchback, for panoramic views.
Planning tip : East of Geiranger, Route 63 continues along the north side of the glacial massif. Take the side road from Djupevatn (toll) to the Dalsnibba lookout for a stunning look back towards Geiranger.
Best for early 20th-century architecture and design
Regularly voted one of Norway’s most beautiful cities, Ålesund owes its special character to a devastating fire in 1904 that razed the town, leaving 10,000 people homeless. When the city rose from the ashes, it was with an entirely new cityscape in the Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) style, making it unique in Norway. For an incomparable panorama of Ålesund and its magnificent natural surroundings, climb the 418 steps to the Aksla viewpoint, overlooking the city center.
9. Trondheim
Best blend of history and innovation
Norway’s historic Viking capital, Trondheim is a lively university town, a medieval pilgrimage destination, a science and technology hub, a culinary hotspot (it was the European Capital of Gastronomy last year), and so much more. The Nidelva River flows through the city center, lined with colorful warehouses. Rent a kayak or take a sightseeing tour by boat for the best views. Trondheim’s star attraction is Nidaros Cathedral, a medieval masterpiece built over the grave of Norway’s patron saint, King Olav II Haraldsson, while across the river, the 17th-century Kristiansten Fortress played a major defensive role during the Scandinavian wars before being occupied by the Nazis during World War II.
10. Nordland Coast
Best for wild coastal road trips
In a country where gorgeous views are everywhere, Kystriksveien , the coastal road from Steinkjær to Bodø (the European Capital of Culture for 2024 ), stands out with its seemingly infinite views of mountains rising from the sea, sandy coves, pretty fishing villages, and countless islands including the birdwatching hotspots Vega and Lovund. The whole route stretches 400 miles (650 km) and takes a minimum of four or five days to drive, with several ferry crossings and numerous worthwhile detours along the way. Kystriksveien is also a wonderful cycling destination; guided tours and luggage transport are available.
Planning tip : Ferries along the route use the Autopass system for tolling. If you don’t have a transponder, register an account in the FerryPay system to avoid a surcharge for mailed invoices. Visit www.autopassferje.no for details.
Best city for year-round outdoor activities
Located 217 miles (315 kilometers) north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is northern Norway’s largest city and unofficial capital. In summer, you can hike, kayak, sauna-hop and savor the city’s urban delights under the midnight sun, while in winter, there are excellent chances of seeing the aurora borealis casting a magical glow overhead as you ski, snowshoe, dogsled and reindeer sled across pristine wintry landscapes. Winter is also the best time for whale watching, whereas summer is the prime season to take a birdwatching cruise in search of puffins and other seabirds.
Local tip: Since 2001 Tromsø has been twinned with Gaza City, a topic which is now being keenly discussed by locals.
12. Svalbard
Best for remoteness and Arctic wildlife
Tromsø not far enough north for you? Then head to Svalbard , an Arctic archipelago located roughly halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, and one where Norwegian, Russian and other citizens all inhabit in a visa-free zone. During the polar summer the islands come alive with migratory species such as whales and seabirds. Polar bears and reindeer wander across the landscape year round, while seals and walrus can often be seen hauled out on ice floes or island shores. In winter, the long polar night descends over the archipelago as the only natural light comes from the moon, stars, and the brilliant auroras that frequently dance across the heavens.
Planning tip : Despite its small size, Svalbard’s administrative center, Longyearbyen, has a surprising range of restaurants, making it a good place to sample the flavors of the Arctic.
This article was first published Jul 22, 2012 and updated Mar 14, 2024.
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Welcome to Norway
Harald Hognerud - DeHistoriske
Visit the amazing Norway Fjords
Fjord Norway - Robin Strand
Bryggen Wharf is one of Norway`s most historical sights
Øyvind Heen - Visitnorway.com
In Norway you will find architectural masterpieces
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Discover Norway by activities
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Visit Norway with the enchanting and famous Norwegian fjords and discover Norway's culture, cities, nature and much more...
Norway is world-famous for its beautiful nature, especially the Norwegian fjords . Also, the many national parks are impressive with mountains, ice-blue glaciers, deep green forests, lakes, and beautiful green valleys and pastures. Norway is one of the three Scandinavian countries; with Denmark and Sweden, Norway is ranked as one of the best countries to live in and has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
The Norwegian coastline is 25,148 km, but including the long fjords, mainland, and numerous small islands, the length is more than 100,000 km.
Every year in Oslo, the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony takes place by the Norwegian committee.
The northern lights and midnight sun
In the north of Norway , the sun never sets during the summer, so that you can see the sun 24/7. This fantastic view is called the midnight sun .
The sun never rises above the horizon in the winter, making northern Norway the perfect spot to watch the Northern Lights, and the season is from September to April.
In northern Norway, you can discover the Northern Lights from September to April, and the sun never rises above the horizon.
See more: Northern Lights and midnight sun in Tromsø
Norway´s major cities
Norway has borders with Finland, Sweden and Russia and the coastline face the North Atlantic Ocean. The Gulf stream runs along the Norwegian coast, and the climate here is mild and relatively wet, and to the north and east, the winters are longer and colder.
Oslo is the capital with about 635,000 inhabitants. Other major cities are Bergen, Trondheim , Tromsø and Stavanger . Europe´s northernmost point is North Cape .
See more: What to see and do in Oslo
The Norwegian fjords are world renown
Norway has the highest concentration of fjords in the world. The Geiranger Fjord and the Nærøy fjord is on the Unesco World Heritage List.
Norwegian nature can be just as wild as it is beautiful. The weather may change quickly in the mountains – from bright sunshine to rain, dense fog and strong winds.
See more: Experience the Norwegian Fjords
Norway is the home of skiing
A Norwegian proverb claims Norwegians are born with skis on their feet, and Norway is undoubtedly a winter sports nation, with skiing and cross-country in particular as the two most beloved sports.
Norway is undoubtedly a winter sports nation, with skiing and cross-country as the two most beloved sports. The Norwegians appreciate their family, friends and leisure activities, and on weekends they love hiking in nature, skiing, biking or other outdoor activities.
The best-known skiing areas are Lillehammer, Beitostolen, Dovrefjell, Rondane, Hallingdal and Valdres.
Many ski centres offer Alpine skiing and snowboarding, including Hafjell, Trysil, Kvitfjell and Hemsedal. The ski season lasts from November to Easter.
Extreme sports like freeskiing, kiteboarding, downhill and mountain bike racing, rock climbing, rafting, parachuting, and BASE jumping are becoming increasingly popular.
In 1957 The Outdoors Recreation Act (Allemannsretten) allowed everyone to access the open country, even private property. In Norway, there is a network of well-maintained trails and cabins.
Norway facts
King Harald V. has been the head of state since 1991. The king has no political power but performs ceremonial duties. Norway has a parliamentary democracy and is one of the most democratic countries in the world. The parliament is called Stortinget.
Essential values in Norway are economic, social and gender equality and openness and equal rights in general – such as financial, social and gender equality.
In Norway are living 5.300 million people live, and Norway is the third happiest in the world, according to the 2022 World Happiness Report. Other top countries are their Nordic neighbours, Finland (no.1) and Denmark (no.2).
Norway is the world’s largest exporter of salmon.
> See why visit the Nordic countries
Famous people from Norway
Edvard Munch and Henrik Ibsen are widely regarded as influential figures in the history of art and literature.
Today noway is the world’s biggest exporter of black metal music. The so-called Nordic noir literary genre has been prevalent in recent years. Here we will mention authors like Jo Nesbø and Karin Fossum.
Major industries in Norway
The country has a very high standard of living and a sound health system like the other Nordic countries . The major industries in Norway are chemicals, food processing, metals, gas and oil, shipping, pulp, and paper products.
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Stunning fjords. Cosy, compact cities. Magical northern lights. Plan your trip, discover great offers, and read our insider guides and inspiring feature articles about people, places and our quirky traditions. So that you get the most out of your trip!
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Norway is a big country! Find your favourite places and cities to visit with our guide. Discover top destinations, as well as some hidden gems and UNESCO-listed sites.
Top 10 destinations in Norway. From hip urban cities to glittering fjords, northern lights, and remote villages above the Arctic Circle – Norway is a veeery long country, packed with things to see and do.
1. Oslo. Best for museums and architecture. Norway’s energetic, innovative capital boasts top-notch historical and cultural museums, a creative food scene, and cutting-edge architecture such as the striking new Munch Museum and the iconic opera house, designed to resemble a glacier.
Welcome to Norway. Visit Norway with the enchanting and famous Norwegian fjords and discover Norway's culture, cities, nature and much more... Norway is world-famous for its beautiful nature, especially the Norwegian fjords.
Discover Norway through action-packed activities, romantic getaways, and adventures in stunning nature. Explore cultural highlights and family-friendly attractions. Here are the best tips on things to do in Norway!
Enjoy the Norwegian nature. Eat and drink local food. Explore the mountains. Experience the fjords. Learn more about holiday in Norway with guides and videos at Visitnorway.com. Explore the happy south, the wild west, the Arctic north, and the cultural east. Come and find your Norway.
Norway has some of the biggest, best and most beautiful fjords in the world! Visit the famous UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and the Geirangerfjord, and explore Sognefjord, Lysefjord, Hardangerfjord, and many more.
The international travelers main reasons to go to Norway are. Enjoy the Norwegian nature; Eat and drink local food; Explore the mountains; Experience the fjords; Learn more about holiday in Norway with guides and videos at Visitnorway.com