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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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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 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 July 2012 and updated March 2024

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THE 10 BEST Norway Tours & Excursions

Norway tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Guided Tour To Nærøyfjorden, Flåm And Stegastein - Viewpoint Cruise

2. Aurora Hunt Tour with Citizen Science from Tromso - Professional Photos Included

3. Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

4. Geiranger Shore Excursion: Mt. Dalsnibba and Eagle Road

5. The North Cape, Reindeer and Sami Families Tour

6. Guided day tour - Premium Nærøyfjord Cruise and Flåm Railway

7. Olden Shore Excursion: the Amazing Briksdal Glacier

8. RIB Fjordsafari Geirangefjord

9. Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour

10. Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls

11. From Stavanger: Lysefjord Sightseeing RIB Boat Tour

12. Tour from Alesund to Trollstigen, The Land Of The Trolls

13. Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present

14. The Best Fjordcruise: Bergen fjord by Zodiac or Pontoon Boat

15. Northern Lights Big Bus Chase

16. Bergen Highlights: Bryggen, Fløibanen, and Fortress Tales

17. Guided Oslo Fjord Cruise by Silent Electric Catamaran

18. Haugesund Shore Excursion: Åkrafjorden & Langfoss waterfall

19. Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R

20. Bergen: Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

21. Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour

22. Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso

23. Guided Fjord & Glacier Tour - From BERGEN

24. From Flåm, Stegastein, Snowy road, Leardal & Borgund stave church

25. Oslo Highlights Bike Tour

26. Lofoten Island: Silent Trollfjord Cruise from Svolvær

27. Oslo Combo Tour: Grand City Tour and Oslo Fjord Cruise

28. Aurora Chase with professional photographers (Northern Lights)

29. Food and Culture walk

30. Northern Lights Chase

What travelers are saying.

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Norway Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Norway is a gorgeous Scandinavian country with sprawling mountain ranges, beautiful glaciers and diverse wildlife. It’s a nature lover’s paradise! Tromso in the north offers spectacular views of the Northern Lights - or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous you can visit the archipelago of Svalbard near the North Pole! Of course, a walking tour of Oslo is essential for getting to know Norwegian culture.

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83 Trips in Norway with 106 Reviews

• Starts Bergen, Norway
• Ends Oslo, Norway

Magic of the Fjords - 7 days

• Best price guaranteed
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• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Glaciers 'data-more-tripid='16035'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Train, Boat, Coach & Taxi
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,445
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 611
• Total Price from: US$ 1,834
• May 31 10+ seats left
• Jun 14 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Bergen, Norway

Walking the Fjords

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Ferry, Coach & Train
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Sep 28 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 07 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Oslo, Norway

Best of Norway

• Activities Chill out & City sightseeing Chill out , City sightseeing , Alternative tours & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='24172'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Villa
• Transport Coach & Train
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,475
• Special Deal (16%): - US$ 564
• Total Price from: US$ 2,911
• May 31 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 14 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Geilo, Norway

The Fjordland

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking
• Transport Train, Ferry, Bus, Boat & Taxi
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jul 01 10+ seats left
• Jul 02 10+ seats left

• Starts Kvitavatn, Norway
• Ends Kvitavatn, Norway

Norway Cross-country Skiing

• Activities Skiing and Snowboarding & Winter adventure
• Accommodation Lodge
• Age Range 14-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,998
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 298
• Total Price from: US$ 2,700
• Jan 18 Only 8 seats left
• Feb 08 Only 8 seats left

• Ends Tromso, Norway

Northern Norway Explorer

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture
• Transport Train, Ferry, Bus & Boat
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,610
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 461
• Total Price from: US$ 4,149
• May 11 Only 6 seats left
• May 25 Only 6 seats left

Norway Fjords and Northern Lights

• Activities Northern lights tours
• Accommodation Hut, Tent & Hotel
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle, Train & Coach
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,905
• Special Deal (12%): - US$ 342
• Total Price from: US$ 2,563
• Oct 19 10+ seats left
• Nov 10 Only 7 seats left

Fjords, Charms & Traditions - 8 days

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Transport Ferry, Coach, Taxi & Train
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 726
• Total Price from: US$ 2,179
• Jun 07 10+ seats left
• Jun 21 10+ seats left

Highlights of Norway

• Activities City sightseeing
• Transport Train & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 1-95 yrs

Norway: Fjords and Glaciers

• Activities Glaciers & Geysers
• Transport Coach, Train & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,579
• Special Deal (3%): - US$ 100
• Total Price from: US$ 3,479
• May 16 Only 8 seats left
• May 30 Only 1 seat left

• Starts Venabu, Norway
• Ends Venabu, Norway

Cross-Country Skiing in Venabu

• Transport Bus & Train
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Dec 21 Only 8 seats left
• Dec 28 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Copenhagen, Denmark

A Taste of Scandinavia

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cultural, religious and historic sites Sightseeing Tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Active and outdoor 'data-more-tripid='5504'>+2 more
• Transport Train, Bus & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,670
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 267
• Total Price from: US$ 2,403
• May 26 Only 3 seats left
• May 30 Only 2 seats left

Magic of Norwegian Fjords

• Trip customizable
• Activities Explorer
• Transport Bus, Train, Boat & Coach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs

• Ends Helsinki, Finland

Scandinavia Explorer

• Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3059'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Hut
• Transport Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat & Ferry
• Brochure Price: US$ 6,530
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 653
• Total Price from: US$ 5,877
• May 18 Only 2 seats left
• May 22 Only 5 seats left

Traveling to Norway? Chat with a local travel specialist in Norway who can help organize your trip.

Norway Tour Reviews

• David Betzler

Norway - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

A holiday to Norway should find its way into your bucket list for one single reason - it is one of the most enchanting and beautiful countries. From extraordinary fjords and dramatic glaciers to exotic coastlines and snaky icefields, each known for its unique wildlife, Norway is a world unlike any other. Of course, a trip to Norway would not be complete without viewing the Northern Lights, which always act as a major temptation for travelers visiting Norway.

Tour Highlights

• Go fishing off the coast of the Lofoten Islands
• Overcome your fear of heights at Pulpit Rock
• Cycle through the scenic Flåm Valley
• Take in the Northern Lights from Tromsø
• Explore the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo
• Hike the mountains of the Geiranger Fjord
• Ride the funicular up Mount Fløien

Travel Tips

• Norway has four very distinct seasons with weather to match. To avoid disappointment, always research whether your trails or other attractions are open during your visit.
• Don’t worry about learning Norwegian before you visit. Most people living in Norway have a great command of the English language.
• If there’s one thing you can’t miss during your stay in Norway, it’s their salmon.
• Visiting Norway as part of a spa holiday? Be aware of etiquette and always shower before entering the sauna. Some hotels also hire ‘washing women’ to clean you!
• Be sure to plan your days in advance, as travelling around the country’s near 150,000 square miles isn’t always easy or fast.
• Are you outdoorsy? Norway is the perfect holiday for you. “Allemannsretten (freedom to roam)" is a traditional Norwegian right, which means you can pitch your tent just about anywhere for an overnight stay.

Norway has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Norway   before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Norway, do check out our Norway Travel Guide for more information.

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9 Day Norway Tour of Oslo, Bergen, Geiranger and Lillehammer

9 days, 1 country and 9 cities

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8 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners

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Relax into the simplicity of life along the king and queen of the fjords. Soak up the cosmopolitan vibe of Oslo and the Hanseatic heritage of Bergen as you travel through some of the most spectacular scenery on earth, including views of continental Europe's largest glacier. Viking tales and a visit to a winter Olympics hub round off this epic Norway trip.

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9 days itinerary trip from Oslo to Oslo visiting 1 country and 9 cities

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Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Oslo with a Local Specialist

Discover Bergen

Visit Hardangerfjord, Geirangerfjord, a medieval Stave Church and Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo

View Voringfoss, Steinsdalsfoss, Haakon's Hall in Bergen, Akershus, the Opera and Royal Palace in Oslo

See Sognefjord, Boyabreen Glacier and Hamar Olympic ice arena

Travel highlights

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Fjords, Glaciers, Coastlines

With a rugged countryside of mountains, fjords, and glaciers, travel in Norway is filled with natural wonders. Part of its allure is its rich history and seafaring culture that reaches back to the days of the Vikings who inhabited Norway throughout the 9th century. Known as the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun,’ you can explore even longer with its endless summer days. Some of the best ways to tour Norway is to explore by bike, boat, car, skis, or even by husky-drawn sled.

Destination Must-See's

One of Norway’s most historic and colorful cities, Bergen is sure to charm even the most season traveler. At the picturesque old Bryggen Wharf, you’ll feel like you have stepped into the pages of a storybook with its rows of tiny wooden houses sitting on narrow streets. The outdoor fish market sets the stage for a glimpse into local life and gives you a taste of the culinary delights important to this seafaring city.

Nestled between the Oslofjord and forested hills lies Oslo, Norway’s capital since 1814. Oslo is the center of Norwegian government and home to its royal family. You’ll find a vibrant, emerging cosmopolitan hub with an abundance of world-class museums, restaurants and art. Norway’s King Harald V and Queen Sonja reside here, and the UN considered it to be one of the best places in the world to live.

The Flåm Railway Museum:

Learn about one of the steepest, most picturesque railways in the world at the Flåm Railway Museum. Located in Flåm’s former train station, the museum features exhibitions about the day-to-day life of the engineers who built this unique line and tells the story of the railway’s history through pictures, text, historic artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

Glaciers and fjords:

Norway is known for its massive glaciers that feed its deep blue fjords. There are so many to see, from the largest glacier in Europe to the one of the narrowest fjords in the world. Two of these natural wonders are recognized by UNESCO World Heritage and are simply incredible.

Destination Must-Do's

Arctic Circle Crossing:

Here is a bucket list item you can check off your list – take a cruise that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Norwegian Coastal Voyage not only does just that but it is considered the world’s prettiest coastal route. Gaze at the distant rugged peaks and to the infinite sky…keep an eye out for sea life as you pass through fjords and by sleepy fishing villages.

Flam Railway

In the quaint village of Flam, nestled at the entrance to the stunning Aurlandsfjord, embark on one of the world’s steepest train rides — the renowned Flam Railway. Ascend 3,000 feet, passing mighty waterfalls, towering mountains and amazing valleys on your way to the mountain plateau of Myrdal. Make your way to the edge for the best view of the fjord of Flam below and the breathtaking surrounding landscape.

Geirangerfjord Cruise:

Board a ferryboat for an exhilarating cruise on Geirangerfjord. Known for some of the most beautiful scenery in Norway, you are sure to be awed by one of the most famous fjords in the world. You will find Norway’s mighty waterfalls: the Seven Sisters, the Bridal Veil and the Suitor here. See charming homes that sit on the steep hillside beside acres of farmland that have been cultivated for centuries.

Bergen Railway:

Europe’s most scenic rail journey is not to be missed. An engineering marvel built at the turn of the 20th century, you will be stunned at the effort it must have taken back then to make the 182 tunnels through mountains of sheer rock. Have your camera ready as this legendary ride takes you by Norway’s most tranquil and stunning landscapes, including a breathtaking fjord.

Expert Advice

Just ask a Norwegian and they will tell you “there is no such thing as bad weather in Norway – only bad clothes.” So be sure to bring the right clothing. Layers are key. The weather in Oslo is much different than the weather in the mountains and even in Bergen. Just be prepared, and you will enjoy any weather.

Norwegians love their seafood. You will be able to try all types of fish prepared in many different ways. Don’t worry about it being too spicy, Norwegian food is light on the spice and heavier on the herbs and dairy.

Norway is known for making the best woolen handmade sweaters. If you are in the market, keep an eye out in particular for Selbu and Dale of Norway.

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My Top 30 Norway Itineraries – Two Days to Two Weeks in Norway

April 20, 2023 by Silvia 49 Comments

I’ve made so many trips around Norway in the past six years I’ve been living here, so I thought it could be helpful for me to gather all of my itineraries in one place. I also find that I often get questions from people trying to organize their Norway trips that I’ve already answered in past itineraries, so I wanted to make it easier to find all the information in one place.

Okay, so here’s a collection of all my top Norway itineraries, organized in order of length.

I’ve started with weekend trips, where I’m just giving suggestions for single places to visit, but if you scroll farther down I’ve linked my longer one and two week+ itineraries later in the post.

And of course if you have lots of time you can mix and match these destinations and itineraries to fit your schedule! Just keep in mind that Norway is really big. Like I think people way underestimate its size because we’re only five million people here.

I can’t tell you how many people have come to me saying they have five days in Norway and will start in Oslo, then get the train over to Bergen and then drive up to Tromsø to see the Northern Lights. Um, Bergen is an overnight train journey from Oslo, and driving from Bergen to Tromsø will take you 28 hours  without stops .

And no, sadly Norway’s train line does not go all the way up to Tromsø – it ends in Bodø.

If you want more in depth advice, I’ve also gathered all my best tips for planning an incredible trip through southern Norway (from the far south up to Trondheim) in a 93-page ebook that covers my top recommendations for places to visit (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. You can purchase The Southern Norway Travel Guide here .

And if you’re coming to Norway for the northern lights, I’ve written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your northern lights trip, including the best places in Norway (and the Nordics) to see the northern lights, the best time to see the northern lights, my top northern lights accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the northern lights (including which apps I use), how to photograph and film the northern lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best northern lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here .   

Table of Contents

Norway Weekend Itineraries

If you’re coming to Norway for just a weekend I’d really recommend sticking to one place. Norway is a big country, public transport doesn’t run that often and can have delays, and moving around to a bunch of places in a short time frame can get expensive.

That said, you could also consider renting a car and exploring a bit of the area if you can, as the best part of Norway is getting out of the cities and towns and seeing some of the beautiful nature here. Norway is also an easy country to drive in, as there is so little traffic here.

Though if you get motion sickness definitely bring some tablets or Sea Bands , as the winding roads here can do a number on your stomach! I’ve written a more detailed guide to things to know when planning a road trip in Norway here .

Sometimes I feel guilty when I’m in Oslo because it’s such a fun city, but I am always telling visitors to Norway to skip it, or at least cut their time there short.

Oslo is fun for locals and the only city in Norway that actually feels like a big city, but there are a lot of other cities in Europe that do what Oslo does best even better. In other words, Oslo is a great city  for Norway , but I wouldn’t necessarily consider it one of Europe’s great cities.

And that’s totally fine, because Norway isn’t really about cities.

Okay, maybe I’m being harsh, and maybe it’s because I’ve received too many messages from people telling me how disappointed by Oslo’s “fjord.” Yes Oslo is technically on a fjord, but if you’re looking for those famous mountainous fjords you’re going to need to head west or north.

But if you do have your heart set on Oslo, it does have some great shopping,  amazing restaurants, sort of okay nightlife (lol), and lots of museums. You won’t be bored. I’ve written about things to do in Oslo here , the Oslo Christmas markets here , and a guide to finding the best Oslo accommodation for your budget here .

If you’ve found a cheap flight to Oslo for a weekend trip but now I’ve scared you off spending all your time there, consider spending a night or two in Rjukan! You can book a bus to Rjukan here , but I’d really recommend renting a car if you can, as the drive to Rjukan via Gaustatoppen is truly spectacular.

Rjukan is a quirky mountain town with an important World War II history. It’s also listed as a UNESCO Industrial Heritage Site and it’s really cool to see the old factories and worker accommodation.

But I also love that it’s at the foot of both Gaustatoppen, one of Norway’s most beautiful mountains, and Hardangervidda, Northern Europe’s largest high mountain plateau (which is also home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer).

I used to live half an hour from Rjukan so I visited the town many times (and even briefly considered moving there), and I’ve written a guide to things to do and where to stay in Rjukan here .

This would be an especially great place to visit with kids, with lots of fun sites like the Krossobanen cable car, the Gaustabanen funicular, and the Vemork WWII museum.

Bergen is probably the most popular destination for a weekend trip to Norway – and for good reason. The city is gorgeous (sorry Oslo, but Bergen is way prettier), and there are loads of international flights here.

This is also an easy base from which to take a day trip out to the fjords, and as it’s a big tourist hub there are lots of activities and tours organized out of Bergen. I’ve written a complete guide to Bergen here and a guide to planning a road trip from Bergen here . 

This is also where you can take the famous Norway in a Nutshell tour, which goes up the Flåm Railway and through the gorgeous Aurlandsfjord. But! Before you book the tour, read this to find out how you can save tons of money on Norway in a Nutshell. 

If you want any easy weekend destination in Norway, Bergen is perfect. You’ll get a very Norwegian experience and everything is set up perfect for tourists, from all the lovely hotels here to the unique activities and adventure tours offered here.

Hardangerfjord

If you fly into Bergen, you could also rent a car and drive down to Hardangerfjord to spend a night or two.

Hardangerfjord is beautiful and so peaceful, especially in the spring when the orchards are in bloom. I’ve written more about driving through Hardangerfjord here .

And if you do spend the night here, I can recommend staying at Utne Hotel, which dates back to 1722 and is perfect for anyone who enjoys unique, historical accommodation.  Check current rates and availability here

Or if you want something a bit cheaper but equally lovely, stay at Ullensvang Gjesteheim, which is in the prettiest part of Hardangerfjord. Check current rates and availability here

A lot of people head here to hike Trolltunga, or the famous Troll’s Tongue that you’ve probably seen all over Instagram and Facebook. Just be aware that it’s an advanced level hike and extremely popular – these days you’ll usually find a long line of people waiting to take photos on the rock. You can read more about hiking Trolltunga here .

Whenever someone asks me where they should go in Norway if they only have a few days, I tell them to go to Ålesund or Lofoten.

Ålesund really gives the best introduction to Norway, because you get to experience a Norwegian city and then you can drive up to Trollstigen for those amazing mountain views, and then over to Geirangerfjord to see Norway’s most beautiful fjord!

Ålesund is such a beautiful city, and the surrounding nature is seriously stunning. Like, I definitely think this is one of the prettiest corners of Norway, and I’m always shocked that most tourists choose to visit Oslo and Bergen instead. I’ll never understand.

But that’s also good news for you if you like to get off the beaten path a bit!

Ideally I would recommend spending a night or two in Ålesund and then renting a car and spending a night or two in a quieter area on the fjords. I’ve written a guide to things to do and where to stay in Ålesund here , and where to stay around Geirangerfjord here .

Another great weekend destination in Norway is Trondheim – my old home!

Trondheim has a rich history and in fact at over 1,000 years old Trondheim is the oldest of Norway’s major cities. It was the religious center of Northern Europe during the Middle ages and has a beautiful old town and Norway’s most impressive cathedral, Nidaros Cathedral.

It’s a really walkable city and the airport is just a short bus or train journey away, so it’s definitely one of the easiest places to spend a weekend in Norway.

Trondheim is a big foodie city with several award-winning restaurants, so if you like to go out to eat, Trondheim is perfect.

It’s also a university city so there’s a great young vibe here and lively night life. And then of course the old town area Bakklandet is one of the prettiest corners of Norway.

I’ve written a guide for things to do in Trondheim here , and where to stay in Trondheim here .

Trondheim – Oppdal

I’d say the only thing missing with a weekend trip to Trondheim is that you don’t really get to experience Norway’s beautiful landscapes. I mean, the city is on the coast and there is a lovely park area to go hiking in above the city, but it’s not the sort of dramatic landscape that Norway is so famous for.

But if you wanted you could spend a night or two in Trondheim (I’d say one full day in Trondheim is plenty to see the main sights) and then rent a car and drive down to Oppdal. I spent a weekend here while living in Trondheim and it’s one of my favorite memories from my time there.

The drive is beautiful and the scenery there is amazing as you climb up into the mountains. This is the perfect place to experience Norwegian cabin life, just relaxing inside at night and hiking or skiing during the day, and there are lots of cabins available on Airbnb, like this big cabin and this traditional Norwegian cabin .

This is the ultimate Norwegian experience, because this is how Norwegians spend their free time in Norway – in their cabins!

Trondheim – Røros

Another great combination with Trondheim would be to take the train down to Røros. This old copper mining town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and truly like nowhere else in Norway. It’s especially beautiful in the winter, as it gets lots of snow and is even known as Norway’s “Christmas town,” but I visited in late spring and loved it then too.

I’ve written more about visiting Røros here , including where to stay and eat.

Like I already said, when someone says they only have time to visit one place in Norway, Lofoten is one of my top choices.

I mean, Lofoten sort of has it all. Okay, it doesn’t have any big cities, but Svolvær is quite a large town with a lot going on, and then you’ll find mountains, beaches, fjords – you’ll even find people surfing here!

It also has a historical significance as a center for fishing, which is why the islands are covered in those iconic red fisherman cabins. You’ll get a great sense of Norway’s fishing history here, as well as the Viking history here.

But mostly, the Lofoten Islands are just really, really beautiful. In fact probably most Norwegians would say Lofoten is the most beautiful place in Norway, and I wouldn’t argue.

Lofoten has also grown in popularity in the past few years, and they’ve done a good job of keeping up with the increase in tourism by establishing more unique accommodation options and tour activities. There’s seriously so much to do here, and so many cool places to stay.

You could either fly into Bodø, rent a car there and take the ferry over to Lofoten, or fly into Svolvær and rent a car from there. It is possible to explore Lofoten by public transport, but you will be limited by bus schedules and will end up missing out on a few of the more off the beaten path areas.

I’ve written a guide to planning a Lofoten road trip here , a sea eagle RIB safari and Northern Lights chasing here , and horseback riding here . And here are 11 things to know before visiting the Lofoten Islands .

Helgeland Coast

I love the Helgeland coast and while you would need more than a weekend to properly explore it, you could very easily visit just one of the islands.

The Helgeland coast has the same dramatic landscape and fisherman cabins of Lofoten, without all the tourists. This is seriously such a hidden gem in Norway. I’ve also heard people say that the friendliest people in all of Norway are on the Helgeland coast. You will be warmly welcomed here!

You can fly or take the train to Bodø, and then from Bodø get the express ferry to Støtt. I’ve written more about Støtt, how to get there, and where to stay here .

Or you could get the express ferry to Lovund, another beautiful island on the coast. I’ve written more about Lovund, Norway here . Or if you have some extra time visit both Støtt and Lovund!

This would be a really unique weekend trip to Norway, as not many foreign tourists plan trips here. So if you like to get off the beaten path and discover the local culture, and if you love beautiful landscapes, definitely consider spending a weekend on one (or a couple) of these islands.

Tromsø, Senja & Dyrøy

After Bergen Tromsø might just be the second most popular weekend destination for tourists coming to Norway – at least in the winter during the Northern Lights season!

I’ve written more about things to do in Tromsø and where to stay here . To be honest I didn’t super click with Tromsø when I visited last summer and this past December, and I’ve heard so many locals complain that now it’s getting way too full of tourists. Then again I know a lot of people who absolutely adore Tromsø, so you might love it.

Update: it’s funny that I wrote that, because I’ve actually just moved to Tromsø!

But what I really loved was flying into Tromsø and then driving down to Senja and Dyrøy. The drive is beautiful and both islands are so magical.

You’ll probably only have time to go to one unless you take a long weekend (we had four nights so we flew into Tromsø and then spent two nights on Senja and two on Dyrøy). Senja has more dramatic scenery and famous hikes, while Dyrøy is the loveliest quiet escape into nature.

I’d say Senja will give you those big bucket list experiences with its Instagram famous hikes, whereas Dyrøy would give you a really authentic, off the beaten path local experience in Norway. I’ve written about visiting Senja here and visiting Dyrøy here .

There are lots of other nice places to spend a weekend in Norway as well, but these are the main ones I’d recommend, especially if you’re new to the country and want to see a highlight. I do include other spots in my longer itineraries for when you have more time to spend in Norway.

So I’m sorry if I missed out on your favorite spot – don’t be mad at me!

Five Days to One Week in Norway Itineraries

Bodø – helgeland – lofoten – vesterålen.

If you only have a week in Norway, I really recommend sticking to the north and skipping Oslo and Bergen altogether.

Okay, you might think I’m biased because I live in the north, but actually I chose to move to the north largely because it’s the most beautiful part of Norway and is the region I’m most excited to write about and photograph. I love the open spaces here, there are fewer people (and tourists), and the landscape is much more dramatic than in the south.

If you want to cover a lot of ground, this Bodø – Helgeland – Lofoten – Vesterålen itinerary will show you the best of Northern Norway. It’s a busy schedule, but if you want to see as much as you possible can in one week, this is for you! I did this in the winter, but it would be equally amazing in other seasons as well.

You’ll spend a couple of nights on a quiet island on the Helgeland coast, a day or two experiencing city life in Norway, you’ll get to explore the famous Lofoten islands with their mountains and fjords, and then go up to quieter Vesterålen to see reindeer and whales. So you’ll really get to see all of the highlights of Norway within one week.

Tromsø – Senja – Dyrøy

If you want to head even farther north,  I also loved my Tromsø – Senja – Dyrøy  trip.

My friends and I flew into Tromsø and then drove straight to Senja, where we spent two nights, and then we headed to the island of Dyrøy for another two nights. We left Dyrøy early so that we’d have the morning in Tromsø before our flight, but if you have a full week you could spend a night or two in Tromsø as well.

I wouldn’t spend more than two days in Tromsø, as there’s not a great deal to do there. The city center is small and there are a few nice restaurants and cafés but that’s sort of it. It’s also a big tourist destination for Northern Lights tours, so downtown is full of tour offices, so if you want to get away from tourist crowds I’d recommend getting out of the city. But the surrounding nature is breathtaking!

Again, I did this trip in the winter, but Senja is a great hiking destination in the summer, plus in the summer you could stop by Sommarøy to see the amazing beaches there.

If you want a less hectic itinerary without so much driving, just spend a week on Lofoten !

The first time I visited Lofoten I stayed one week, and even after returning several times over the past few years I still feel like I have so much left to see on Lofoten. So you definitely won’t get bored.

This way you’ll be able to really explore the island, go on hikes, and get into the nature. I’d actually love to spend a full month on Lofoten one day, as there really is so much to explore there.

Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten

If you’re looking for those big Arctic bucket list experiences, this Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten itinerary  is for you. You’ll get to see reindeer, huskies, and whales, and in the summer the midnight sun and in the winter the Northern Lights, and you’ll even get to sleep in an Arctic Dome – one of the best experiences I’ve had in Norway.

When my friend who hates the cold came to visit me in Norway in January, this was the itinerary I made to win her over – and it did!

Bodø – Helgeland Coast

The Helgeland coast is so dreamy, and still relatively undiscovered, especially amongst foreign tourists. Plus the people here are so, so friendly. It’s a totally different experience than visiting the super crowded and touristy areas of southern Norway (where the locals don’t always love all the tourists).

I still have so much of the Helgeland coast left to explore, so I’ll definitely be updating this with a couple of itineraries once I make some more trips here this spring and summer.

But for now I would suggest flying or taking a train to Bodø and spending a day there, and then getting the express boat to Støtt and a few of the other small islands along the coast. If you stick to the small islands you won’t need to rent a car, as you can get around them by foot or by renting a bicycle.

Plus the small islands are so special. You’ll get an immediate sense of Norway’s culture and history here, and the locals really are so friendly.

You can get the   Travel Pass Nordland  for 990 NOK, which gives you access to all of the buses and express boats (not the ferries) in Nordland for one week, so you can island hop as much as you want.

Alternatively you could get the train or fly to Mosjøen and then rent a car there and explore the coast by car.

I’m going to try to do this trip both with and without a car and report back this summer!

Mosjøen – Helgeland Coast

Like I said, I still have a lot more of the Helgeland Coast to explore, but I did recently take a trip from my home in Mosjøen out to the islands of Dønna and Herøy , which many locals had told me were two of the prettiest islands along the coast here. And they weren’t wrong!

I drove from Mosjøen to Sandnessjøen and then caught a ferry to Dønna from there, but you could also fly directly to Sandnessjøen and then you wouldn’t even necessarily need to rent a car, because the islands are so small. Or it would be really fun to rent a bicycle in Sandnessjøen to explore the islands by bike!

Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Kokelv – North Cape

This Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Kokelv – North Cape itinerary is one of my favorite northern lights itineraries, as it includes some of Norway’s best northern lights hotels .

Kiruna – Hammerfest – Hamningberg – Kirkenes – Rovaniemi

This is one of the most recent one week trips I’ve taken, and it was one of my all time favorites! And as a bonus, this will also take you through Sweden and Finland, so you get three countries in one trip.

This Kiruna – Hammerfest – Hamningberg – Kirkenes – Rovaniemi itinerary will take you to the very top of Europe, the border of Russia, and through some of the most beautiful spots in the Arctic. I did this trip in the summer under the midnight sun, but you would have an equally amazing trip in the winter under the Northern Lights.

Okay so while I personally prefer northern Norway, I know a lot of people want to see the iconic destinations of the south like Oslo, Bergen, and the most famous Pulpit Rock and Trolltunga hikes.

And the most famous of Norway’s fjords are in southern Norway, so it’s not like the north has  all the looks.

So don’t worry, I’ve made some itineraries for southern Norway too!

Bergen – Aurland – Jotunheimen – Fjærland – Balestrand – Bergen

If you want to see the best of fjord Norway, this is the trip for you. 

Spend one night at  Hotel Aurlandsfjord in Aurland, then take both the Aurlandsfjellet Scenic Route and Sognefjellet Scenic Route and drive up to Jotunheimen National Park and spend a night at  Leirvassbu Fjellstue . Add an extra night here if you want to take a day to hike in Jotunheimen.

Then drive down to Fjærland for a night at  Fjærland Fjordstue . Then take the Gaularfjellet Scenic Route and loop back to Balestrand for a night at Kviknes Hotel . Then drive back to Bergen the next day. 

Read more details about this itinerary here . 

Oslo – Rjukan – Odda – Hardangerfjord – Bergen

If you want to do the traditional Oslo – Bergen – fjord loop but add in some special stops along the way, this Oslo – Rjukan – Odda – Hardangerfjord – Bergen itinerary is probably my favorite one week itinerary for southern Norway.  This is the first itinerary listed in the blog post. 

You’ll start in Oslo, then spend a night in the lovely town of Rjukan, drive along Hardangerfjord, and get to see Bergen. This is a busy itinerary with quite a bit of driving, but I think you will love it!

Oslo – Kristiansand – Stavanger – Bergen – Hardangervidda

If you want to do the famous hikes like Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten (the rock stuck between two cliffs), then this  Oslo – Kristiansand – Bergen – Hardangervidda itinerary  is for you!  This is the second itinerary listed in the blog post.

You’ll take a train from Oslo to Kristiansand, which is known as Norway’s “riviera,” and then you’ll head through some amazing mountain and coastal scenery through Stavanger towards Bergen. Then from Bergen you’ll drive over Hardangervidda, Northern Europe’s largest high mountain plateau, and through Telemark back down towards Kristiansand. You’ll see a huge variety of landscapes, as well as both villages and cities, so it makes for a great introduction to Norway.

Oslo – Røros – Trondheim – Kristiansund – Alesund by public transport

Most of the itineraries I’ve mentioned require you to rent a car, partly because I always love a good road trip, and partly because a lot of areas of Norway don’t have frequent public transport. But this  Oslo – Røros – Trondheim – Kristiansund – Alesund itinerary  uses only public transport, with a combination of trains, ferries, and buses.  This is the third itinerary listed in the blog post. 

So usually when people want to see Norway by public transport they do the famous Oslo – Bergen Norway in a Nutshell route. But there’s a reason I’m not recommending that itinerary here.

I mean, if you really want to do it you can read more about how to plan Norway in a Nutshell here , but to be honest I really don’t think that route shows off the best of Norway, or the most beautiful sites. It’s a good route if you want something really easy, because you’ll basically be following the same route as everyone else on the buses, trains, and ferries, so you can just follow the crowd.

But if you’re a little more independent and want to get off the beaten path a bit and see even more impressive views, do this itinerary instead. It’s so much better, I promise!

You’ll get to see Røros, a really beautiful historic town, Trondheim and Ålesund, which are my top two favorite cities in Norway, and you’ll see some of the most stunning landscapes in southern Norway.

Ten Days to Two Weeks in Norway Itineraries

All of the one week itineraries I mentioned above could easily be stretched out longer. In fact the  Odda – Hardangerfjord – Bergen itinerary mentions an optional extension by adding Ålesund and the Atlantic Ocean Road .

But otherwise I recommend one of the itineraries below!

Bergen – Aurland – Balestrand – Fjærland – Jotunheimen – Geiranger – Trollstigen – Ålesund – Hjørundfjord – Stryn – Bergen 

Spend one night at  Hotel Aurlandsfjord  in Aurland, then take the Aurlandsfjellet Scenic Route and drive to Balestrand for a night at  Kviknes Hotel . From Balestrand take the Gaularfjellet Scenic Route and then drive to Fjærland for a night at   Fjærland Fjordstue . Then take the Sognefjellet Scenic Route and drive into Jotunheimen National Park. Spend a night or two at   Leirvassbu Fjellstue . 

Then drive to Geiranger and spend a night at Hotel Union Geiranger . Then take the Geiranger – Trollstigen Scenic Route to Åndalsnes and spend a night at   G rand Hotel . Then drive to  Ålesund and spend a night or two at   Hotel 1904 . Then drive along  Hjørundfjorden  to Sæbø and stay at  Sagafjord Hotel . Then drive to Stryn and spend a night at Hjelle Hotel . Then either drive all the way back to Bergen, or split up the drive with a night at ThonPartner Hotel Førde . 

Røros – Trondheim – Kristiansund – Atlantic Ocean Road – Molde – Romsdalsfjord – Hotel Union Øye – Hjørundfjord – Hoddevik – Stryn – Hitra – Golden Detour

This is one of my all time favorite Norway itineraries, but you’ll need at least two weeks for this – it will be even better with three weeks. This fjord and culture itinerary takes you through Norway’s most beautiful fjords as well as some Norwegian cultural heritage sites.

Oslo – Bodø – Helgeland – Narvik – Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Lofoten

I absolutely loved this Oslo – Bodø – Helgeland – Narvik – Tromsø – Lyngen – Alta – Lofoten itinerary . You’ll get to see a huge portion of the country on the train ride up from Oslo to Bodø, and all of the stops on the way are some of my favorite places in Norway.

And if you have any longer, I would definitely consider adding a detour to Senja and even Dyrøy to your itinerary when you’re driving from Narvik up to Tromsø. You could also stop for a day in Oslo and Trondheim on your way up north.

And then if you have even more time, drive all the way up to the North Cape from Alta. It’s an extra 3 and a half hours of driving, but since you’ve made it this far north in Norway you might as well go as north as you can get!

Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten – Bodø – Mosjøen – Trondheim

If you want to check off a bunch of arctic bucket list experiences like husky sledding, staying with reindeer, overnighting in an Arctic dome, and whale watching, take a look at this  Narvik – Kiruna – Vesterålen – Lofoten – Bodø – Mosjøen – Trondheim itinerary .

Plus you’ll get to go to Sweden as well!

This is the full trip that my friend Danielle and I did when she visited me in Norway, so if you’re wondering what I personally recommend to my friends coming to Norway for the first time, this is it!

I wanted to include Narvik for a stay in an Arctic Dome, which is Norway’s answer to the glass igloo, and then Kiruna has both the husky and reindeer Airbnbs which I love so much.

And then Vesterålen is amazing for whales, reindeer, and nature views, and Lofoten is one of the most beautiful places in Norway. The train ride from Bodø to Mosjøen is the most beautiful train ride in all of Norway, and you’ll end up in Trondheim to see big city life in Norway.

In Trondheim we went to a bunch of fancy restaurants and quirky cafés, and then Danielle flew straight out of Trondheim Airport instead of having to go back down to Oslo.

Trondheim – Mosjøen – Vega – Lovund – Lofoten

When my two travel blogger friends Sam and Sher came to visit I knew I had to put together an epic itinerary for us, and I think I succeeded with this Trondheim – Mosjøen – Vega – Lovund – Lofoten itinerary .

This trip covers the best of Norway, in my opinion, with one of Norway’s most beautiful big cities, Trondheim, gorgeous islands along the Helgeland coast, and then the iconic Lofoten islands.

Tromsø – Storslett – Kokelv – Hammerfest – Sørøya – Porsangerfjord – Vardø – Tana – Karasjok – Kautokeino – Alta – Lyngen – Tromsø (pet friendly!)

Okay this is a long one, but I actually did do it in two weeks and didn’t feel rushed. This Arctic itinerary includes stops in all of my favorite spots in the far north of Norway, including Lyngen, Hammerfest, and Vardø. It also takes you deep into Sami country in eastern Finnmark, to learn more about local Sami culture. Oh and this itinerary is totally pet friendly, as I did it with a dog!

Getting to Norway

Lots of airlines fly into Oslo, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding good flights.

And if you’re on a budget you’re in luck – Norwegian is a budget airline with some of the cheapest connections between the US and Europe.

I fly Norwegian all the time, but just remember that it is a budget airline so you’ll have to pay extra for checked luggage, meals on board, and even water during your flight. I always bring several sandwiches and lots of snacks and a big water bottle that I refill at the airport (after security of course!) to tide me over.

But the planes are really nice with big windows, lots of overhead space, and they’ve designed the lighting to help combat jet lag (not really sure how or if it really works, but I like to think that it does!). There’s also an option to fly their premium class, which I believe comes with meals and maybe checked luggage – I’ve never flown premium on Norwegian though so I can’t say if it’s worth it or not. I do know that it’s not as fancy as business class on other airlines.

Oh and be sure not to exceed the carry on luggage limit if you don’t pay for checked luggage with Norwegian, because they are super strict. My friend recently flew Norwegian to visit me in Norway and she had to pay $200 to check her bag at the airport, which was about how much her flight had cost! I mean, at least her flight had been super cheap to start with, but it was still a bit of a blow.

I do love Norwegian, but sometimes you can find even better deals with other airlines, and if you do it’s definitely nicer to fly a non-budget airline. Luggage fees add up and it’s so much nicer to fly an airline with meals and drinks included. I often fly KLM and Finnair as well.

I’ve also flown Icelandair directly out of Trondheim, though they’re also a budget airline and super strict with luggage – a flight attendant once really yelled at me for having two bags with me, even though my second bag fit under the seat in front of me and my larger bag was a backpack that was smaller than most of the suitcases other people had brought on as carry ons. I definitely hadn’t broken any rules but she was so mean about it anyway, and clearly I’m still feeling very bitter about the whole experience, haha.

So yeah, try to find a flight with a non-budget airline if you don’t want the added stress.

My go-to for finding flights are Skyscanner and Kiwi.com. Kiwi.com especially is a sneaky travel hack tool that can find great connections that other search engines don’t include – I’ve written more about Kiwi.com and how to use it here .

You’ll probably be flying into and out of Oslo Gardermoen Airport which seriously is one of the nicest airports in the world. And guys, I travel for a living so I spend a lot of time in airports.

Pro tip #1: if you want to look like a local, head straight to the Tax Free shop once you land. It’s always funny getting off flights in Oslo because every Norwegian will go straight to Tax Free to buy alcohol, and it’s only the tourists that skip it, haha. But seriously, if you do want to drink in Norway and are on a budget, you’ll save a lot of money by picking up something here.

Pro tip #2:  Don’t get the Flytoget, or Airport Express Train, into Oslo from the Airport. It’s only three minutes faster than the regional train and costs twice as much!

Again, it’s only ever tourists who get the express (“express”) train while all Norwegians get the Vy train. You’ll see the Vy (formerly NSB) ticket machines on your right once you exit customs and you can buy your tickets there. You can also check the train schedule at vy.no .

What to Pack for Norway

The most important thing about packing for Norway is to bring lots of layers. The weather here is really unpredictable so it’s important to be ready for lots of different temperatures throughout the day.

Oh and you’ll definitely want waterproof shoes here, whether that’s hiking boots in the summer or winter boots in the winter.

I’ve written a complete guide for what to pack for winter in Norway here, and a guide to what to pack for summer in Norway here.

It’s also a good idea to buy travel insurance for your trip to Norway, as storms can often cause delays and if you’ll be hiking or doing outdoor activities you want to be covered in case of an accident. Plus Norway isn’t exactly a cheap destination, so you don’t want to end up losing money due to weather delays or unforeseen events.

I always get travel insurance wherever I travel, as several incidents in the past have taught me that it’s always worth it.

I personally use World Nomads because that’s what I used as a backpacker and I’ve had to file claims twice with them now and they paid me promptly, no additional questions asked. They also helped get me to a hospital in Beijing when I was too overwhelmed/dying to find one on my own, so I am forever grateful to those guys.

You can find a quote on World Nomads here .

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Riley - Riley's Roves says

March 1, 2019 at 5:51 am

SERIOUSLY cannot wait to get to Norway one day. Thanks for posting these! It’ll help me plan when the time comes.

Silvia says

March 1, 2019 at 5:01 pm

I hope you love it as much as I do when you do come!

Alberto says

March 3, 2019 at 10:07 pm

Hi Silvia Hope this note finds you well

I have been reading your blog and I have to say that is really great, I love it, honestly speaking I am writing to you as even though your blog has plenty of information about different routes and places to visit taking into account the amount of time that a person will be spending in Norway, my case is a bit special as I am traveling:

For a whole week, from Saturday 8th to Saturday 15th of June (we are arriving in Oslo around 10am on the 8th, and we will be leaving around 12pm on the 15th) With my girlfriend and our son, who is nearly three years old He doesn’t do long car trips very well He does not do bus journeys very well either… He likes trains and planes though I would personally like combining the southwest with the north, if possible Basically our idea is to see Oslo (we’ll be there for a day), Bergen (I guess we should…), some fjords (obviously :)), and maybe go to the north (fly to Tromso…)

Bearing in mind those facts, what route – option would you recommend me? I don’t mind taking trains and flights (especially I prefer taking flights, if possible…)

Please let me know, and apologies for bothering you as I am sure you are busy with your blog and answering lots of questions from different people

Thanks very much in advance Alberto P.S.: By the way I also wrote to you an email just in case you would not read this comment… 🙂

March 5, 2019 at 2:02 am

These look great and are very helpful! I am heading to Norway solo for the second time in April. I decided to mix it up a little by spending 4 days in Bergen and then taking public transportation to Odda for three days. I didn’t want to stress my time too thin and travel too much by public transit, plus I wasn’t sure of all of the options, but it looks like you really can get around with your Oslo – Røros etc. route.

Francesco Trebbi says

March 17, 2019 at 2:38 pm

Absolutely great posting. I actually happy when i done this topic. I am excited world have a excellent author. Always i am waiting for next reading. Thanks a lot for great posting share.

Kym Channell says

March 23, 2019 at 9:19 pm

Thanks for all this info – it’s a fantastic blog! I’ve just booked for 11 days total in Norway, including flying in and out days in June and will be definitely taking into consideration some of the itineraries you have discussed. Wasn’t sure about booking to go there initially as only considered it when cheaper flights to Iceland got booked out, but after reading your blogs starting to feel super excited about it! Your efforts in doing the blog are much appreciated – thanks!

March 24, 2019 at 1:22 pm

I’m so happy to hear that – I personally prefer Norway over Iceland 🙂

May 14, 2019 at 6:41 pm

So I’m seeing mixed reviews. Is it bad to travel in mid May? I will be there from May 17-June 3 and after reviewing these itineraries I’m starting to get a bit nervous. I picked Norway because it was on the best travel destinations for May. If anyone knows anything please help me ease my mind.

May 15, 2019 at 6:17 am

I think that’s a perfect time to come! Just bring layers in case it’s still cold. It will be beautiful though, and far less crowded.

June 17, 2019 at 1:07 pm

Incredible pictures on this post! I have been to about half of these places, but totally inspired to go to the others. I wonder if you have a favorite.

Florencia Coldman says

June 20, 2019 at 12:19 am

Hello, how are you? We are a party of six, we where planning on going from Tromso to Senja and then Lofoten around Christmas. Do you think it’s too dangerous that Rout in late December taking into consideration that we would be driving a Car for six passengers? We would really appreciate your take on this matter Kind Regards Florencia

Amber Hill says

June 20, 2019 at 1:57 pm

Hi Silvia, your blog is amazing! I am sitting here at 10pm with many hours of reading ahead of me!! I am struggling to put together an itinerary for Norway so all your blog posts will be a great help. I am especially excited by all the ‘off the tourist trail’ information. This is what I am looking forward to exploring. We are a family of 4. Kids are great little travellers. We are looking at September (2020) as I want to avoid the crowds over June/July (when our winter school hol’s are). The Lonely Planet says that many places close down in September? Do you agree? Or will we be ok to find accommodation?? We are coming from Melbourne – it’s a long way!! Many thanks, Amber

Tamara D says

July 28, 2019 at 4:39 pm

Hi Silvia!!! Your blog is amazing!!!!! Thank you for taking the time to give so many details and tips! My friends and I plan to take a girls trip March 28-April 4, 2020. What towns do you recommend seeing with that time frame during that time of year?

August 3, 2019 at 9:13 am

Silvia, really great post with all details, pictures and very helpful to plan our tour to Norway. Thank you for such a wonderful article!

Anoushka Sivaraman says

January 22, 2020 at 6:34 pm

Really enjoyed reading your blog. I’m travelling in April and flying into Oslo. Can you please suggest a 5 day itinerary which would include public transport? Is it reasonable to do Oslo Bergen and Alesund in that time? Do let me know!

January 23, 2020 at 12:00 pm

Ålesund is quite far from Bergen so it would be hard to fit it in, unless you fly. Best 5-day public transport itinerary would probably be a diy Norway in a nutshell: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/nutshell-tour-diy-review/

Suzie S Russell says

February 4, 2020 at 11:09 pm

Hi Silvia, I am so jealous that you have gotten to travel all these places you’ve been. My daughter and I are hoping to come to Norway either this fall (early November) or next March. The things we want to see and do are 2-3 of the southwestern fjords, Sognefjord, Lysefjord, Hardangerfjord. I don’t know how far apart they are but is it possible to take a ferry to view these wonders? Is it possible to do just a day trip? Also, we want to do a husky sled ride , reindeer encounter/contact and possible sledge ride, spend one night in the arctic dome in Narvik, visit Lofoten with an overnight stay and head to Senja/Trosmo and if we have time maybe head to Kiruna, Sweden and maybe see the ice hotel. We have about 9 days and we’d like to fly in and out of Bergen. We are having a hard time coming up with a suitable itinerary because the distances are so vast and everything is super expensive. Could you help us?

February 9, 2020 at 1:17 pm

First of all I would map out how you are going to get between all of these places, as the distances are quite large – you might want to cut out a couple of places so you’re not super rushed. If I were you I might actually cut out the southwestern fjords altogether and just stick to Northern Norway/Sweden. You could fly into Svolvær in Lofoten, or Narvik, or Tromsø. Plus that way you’ll have more of a chance to see the northern lights!

Suzy Zid says

February 11, 2020 at 2:49 am

Thank you for the wonderful posts, what an amazing blog! I have a question; I saw a few times in different posts on your blog that if you’d have to choose between southwestern Norway and northern Norway, you’d prefer the northern part. However, I am curious because if I were to google the attractions in Norway, there are not much in the north compared to in the southwest – which has plenty!

I also read a lot on sites like TripAdvisor that locals would recommend a longer time in the north, but wouldn’t really go into specifics. The places that the locals actually mentioned are Lofoten, Senja, and maybe Vesteralen. Tromsø, Alta and Narvik are said to be meh, and nobody really suggested Bodø.

So the thing is, I want to believe the locals saying the northern part is better than the southwestern, because my friends and I are splitting our 17 day-roadtrip in Norway into these two parts and I want to convince my travel mates that we should spend more time in north than the other, but google searches are not really helping!

What ratio of days would you suggest we do? I was thinking 7 in southwest and 10 in north, but maybe you have a better advise. Also could you elaborate a little bit as to why you’d choose the northern part rather than southwestern part? Thank you so much if you decided to reply to my comment!

February 12, 2020 at 1:43 pm

Travel in Norway isn’t really about attractions. At least I find that the best experiences here are ones with nature, and honestly the entire country is beautiful. You can find a beautiful hike anywhere here, so the famous ones actually end up being the least appealing, because they’re filled with lots of tourists and souvenir shops. I think it depends a bit on what time of year you are visiting, but I think your plan to spend 7 days in the south and 10 in the north is perfect. I mean personally I would prefer spending all the time in the north, but the south is a bit different so it would be worth experiencing as well if you have the time. The landscape in the north is more dramatic – the mountains are more jagged and the beaches clearer – there tend to be fewer tourists, and then we also have more reindeer here. And if you come in the summer you can experience the midnight sun, and in the winter the northern lights – neither of which you can experience in southern Norway (unless you’re very lucky with the northern lights). Senja and Vesterålen are beautiful, as well as the whole Helgeland region. I also love the Lyngen Alps and Finnmark – you can find my posts from all of those places here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/life-travel-norway/ Hope that helps and have a great trip!

September 7, 2021 at 7:18 pm

Silvia, Thanks for maintaining this sight. Very informative. In 2022 summer I will be traveling Norway from USA for 2 weeks. This will be my first visit to the country and like to cover the key scenic spots along with hiking to the major picturesque rocks. Main purpose of the trip is nature photography. Mostly I like to drive (wherever possible) to explore the areas at my own pace. Can you pls suggest a feasible itinerary? Thanks

Suzanne says

July 6, 2022 at 12:06 am

Hello, I hope you trip goes great! I am traveling there for the 1st time in Oct. Did Silvia answer you? I would love to know if she did and share the info. Where are all the places you will see?

Bao Nguyen says

December 29, 2021 at 8:28 pm

Hi, I’m traveling to Norway 2022 for the End of Jan- early Feb. The Aurora Borealis is my main attraction so I’ll Be landing in Tromso, but wish to visit places like Sommaroy, Lofoten, and Bodo.

You filled this blog with so many insightful details! I was wondering if you a car was necessary for all these places or if the public transportation would suffice?

Lisa Rubin says

February 22, 2022 at 5:32 pm

Hi Silvia, I am planning a trip with my husband and two grown daughters. We would like to try and combine Fiords and Lofoten and possibly hike Kjeragbolten. This would be about a two week road trip. Do you have an itinerary you would recommend? Also, trying to decide between early July or mid August ? We want to see the best scenery, but in a less touristy way if possible. I would appreciate any advice. Thanks ! Lisa

Stamatis says

May 14, 2022 at 2:26 pm

Hello Silvia, I just bought your Southern Norway Travel Guide, which is very helpful, but now I’m torn between two itineraries, so I thought that you might be able to help. I arrive at Oslo and I will be using public transportation.

1) A version of your public transportation itinerary for 11 days.

Day 1: Oslo – Roros Day 2: Roros – Trondheim Day 3: Trondheim – Kristiansund Day 4: Kristiansund – Alesund Day 5: Alesund (Hjorundfjord Cruise) Day 6: Alesund  Day 7: Alesund – Geiranger – Andaslnes Day 8: Andaslnes (Hike Trollstigen) Day 9: Andaslnes – Oslo Day 10-11: Oslo

2) My original idea Day 1: Oslo – Andaslnes Day 2: Andaslnes (Hike Trollstigen) Day 3: Andaslnes – Geiranger – Alesund Day 4: Alesund (Hjorundfjord Cruise) Day 5: Alesund Day 6: Alesund – Stryn Day 7: Stryn (Glacier Hike) Day 8: Stryn – Lom (or Lillehammer) Day 9: Lom (or Lillehammer) – Oslo Day 10-11: Oslo

As you can see my two main goals are to visit Alesund and Trollstigen! The first itinerary allows me to visit Trondheim and Kristiansund (and the Atlantic Road) but the second is a little more relaxed and allows me to enjoy more of Norway’s nature. On day 9 I’ve added a stop to one of these two towns because I don’t want to travel for 8 hours straight and I’ve heard that they are charming. What’s your suggestion? 

P.S. I understand, having read your blog thoroughly, that Northern Norway is better but I have the impression that moving around in the north using public transportation is more difficult and that’s why I chose to visit the south. At least I took your advice and focused on your favourite fjords…

Thanks in advance and keep up the good work Stamatis

May 16, 2022 at 1:19 pm

You’ll see more with the first itinerary (I especially do love Røros) but if you would prefer a more relaxed itinerary I would definitely go with the second one! And you’re right, southern Norway has much better public transportation connections, so that’s a good choice for you.

May 16, 2022 at 7:25 pm

Thanks for the reply!

I think I’ll go for the second idea and try to be a little more relaxed, you can’t see everything in one trip after all. After my research, and reading your blog, I started planning a Helgeland road trip, I just need to persuade some friends to follow the plan, and Trondheim (and Roros) would be a great starting point for that…

May 28, 2022 at 2:47 pm

Hi Silvia! Have been reading most of your articles on Norway road trips (& I really want to thank you cause they are amazing and very informative!). You inspired me to organize a road trip at the end of June. I’m also planning to purchase your Southern Norway Travel Guide, but I’d first like to define a topline tour (cause I’m indecisive between the below and planning something around Lofoten). For now I’m planning: Day 1- visit Bergen Day 2 – drive to Hardangerfjord (& explore) Day 3 – Trolltunga Hike Day 4 – Drive until Stegastein (& sleep somewhere in the area) Day 5 – Drive to Geirangerfjord Day 6 – Explore from Geiranderfjord to Trolltunga (morning) & then drive to Ålesund (in the afternoon) Day 7 – Explore Ålesund Day 8 – not sure, potentially drive north until the Atlantic Ocean Road, or take a fjords cruise from Ålesund (though I’m not a fan of crowded cruises) Day 9 – Way back to Bergen (do you recommend taking the 7hours drive from Ålesund to Bergen? Any must-see spots that you’d suggest to stop by?)

Do you think this is a feasible plan? Any must-see spots that I have missed? Especially the last 2 days are not very clear how to best use the time.

Would love to hear your thoughts, it would help a lot! Thank you in advance, Ceci

Bhagya says

June 2, 2022 at 4:03 pm

Hi Sylvia, First off, Congratulations on this very extensive and eminently readable blog. Wish you many more journeys! I am thinking of spending twelve days in Norway, between the 30th of August and 12th of September. We are 3 of us, myself (57), my husband (62) and son (23) from India. We were wanting to do the Fjords and the natural wonders and the Great Atlantic Road in a car after visiting the Myskoxcentrum in Harjadalen. I will go through your blog for details and suggestions. There is one bit of information, I would be very grateful to have from you. I am recovering from a knee injury and so long hikes and walks to view points are not going to be possible. In this context can you tell me the places that need a lot of walking that we should or can avoid. This will help greatly in framing our itinerary. Many thanks

June 2, 2022 at 4:22 pm

You should be fine with your itinerary – the views will be beautiful from the road as well!

Nilesh says

March 22, 2024 at 5:57 pm

Can u send me ur Norway itnery for route this August I am planning for three weeks. Thanks in advance 🙏

July 4, 2022 at 8:23 am

Hey! Thanks for all this info! I’m trying to gauge the cost of a 10 day/2 week road trip in Norway. I haven’t planned any details yet, but I’d probably follow one of the itineraries posted above. Do you have any approximation for how much gas would cost? (Or around how many miles such a road trip would cover) thanks!

Nicole Wahlgren says

August 25, 2022 at 5:29 pm

Hello, I have been reading your blogs for three months now because I am going to Norway for two weeks in October. I want to see both some of the south and some of the north. Is it reasonable to cover Bergen, Alesund, Trondheim, Bodo, Lofoton, etc. all in two weeks? I am solo traveling, so my schedule is very flexible. Also, I am currently trying to find my family who lives in Norway via family contacts & ancestory. I know we had some family outside of Trondheim for awhile, but it would be cool to meet them if I get a chance. They were originally from the Namsos area. Just curious what your thoughts are because I want to see a lot of the country, but also not be overwhelmed by my schedule.

October 1, 2022 at 8:31 am

I just stumbled across your page and it is great to see you are not focused on the normal touristy things and more about seeing the “real” country. Which is the way I prefer to travel.

I have spent the last several hours trawling through your page and will no doubt spend a lot more time. But I wanted to ask: Can you recommend a place to do a horse trek or even just several days of riding.

I will be travelling in either May or June of next year, I am thinking I will stick to public transport and will more than likely be in the Southern region (as it is my first trip to Norway and treating this as a taster, because will be going back in winter at some stage to do Northern.

Ideally somewhere where I can ride to experience the beauty of Norway.

Also interested to hear what you think it would be like travelling solo in Norway.

Marlene LeGates says

November 22, 2022 at 8:22 pm

Your web site is awesome but now I’m totally bewildered as to where to go for our 3-week trip to Norway in June.We like to trave leisurely, so we don’t want to drive (rental car) more than 3 hrs per day (and hpefully many days with no driving at all) and we liike to do gentle hikes and perhaps some kayaking. Fly in and out of Bergen and stick to the south? Fly in and out of Narvik and stick to the north? It doesn’t seem reasonable to try to co a combo. (We are coming from Canada but it’s much cheaper to fly into the UK and then pick up Norwegian Air, kgives us more flexibility as well). Most itineraries are much too rushed. So, some specific questions: I guess you would rate the northern scenery as even more spectacular than int he south, right? I’ve heard that the Lofoten Islands are very poular now with long fery waits; is that true? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

November 25, 2022 at 1:43 pm

If this is your first trip to Norway I would recommend flying in and out of Bergen and sticking to the south. That way you can explore Norway’s most beautiful fjords, and you won’t have as long distances to cover as in the north. Have fun!

nwa-non says

March 20, 2023 at 9:14 pm

First of all, a wonderful blog and a fantastic resource for visitors to Norway!! Thank you!

I’m planning for an 8-day trip to Norway in August. Flying in and out of Oslo. Mainly want to visit Northern part (but realize that Tromso/Lofoton Islands will not be possible).

Here is my tentative itinerary. Will be renting a car and driving around everywhere.

Day 1 – Fly in to OSL, stay the night at Oslo Day 2 – Start for Lillehammer. Spend night at Oppdal. Day 3 – Start for Trondheim, spend night Day 4 – Start for Ålesund, spend night Day 5 – Visit Geirangerfjord. Spend night at Ålesund Day 6 – Start for Flåm, spend night Day 7 – Start for Oslo, spend night Day 8 – Fly out of OSL

Do you think this is doable without being overwhelmed? If I rent an EV, are chargers readily available? I’m used to driving long distances so that’s not a concern.

March 21, 2023 at 2:39 pm

Hm I think it would make a lot more sense to fly from Oslo to Bergen and rent a car there, but if you really I want to leave from Oslo I think the trip is doable. I would skip Trondheim and head straight to Ålesund instead. And it doesn’t really make sense to drive back to Ålesund after Geirangerfjord, so I would stay somewhere along the fjord instead (here are my suggestions: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/best-geirangerfjord-hotels/ ). Or you could stay somewhere along Hjørundfjord instead ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/hjorundfjord-norway-beautiful-fjord/ ). Instead of staying in Flåm I might consider the Kviknes Hotel in Balestrand or Fjærland Hotel, depending on if you like a big grand hotel (Kviknes) or smaller cute hotel (Fjaerland) as they’re both a lot nicer than Flåm. I’ve written about both here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/best-sognefjord-accommodation/ and here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/aurlandsfjellet-sognefjellet-bergen-road-trip/

April 3, 2023 at 4:44 pm

Thanks for your response!! I’ll look into your recommendations.

Aljoša Gabor says

April 27, 2023 at 10:52 pm

Hi! I tried to purchase your Southern Norway tour guide, but for some reason Gumroad does not want to accept my credit card. Is there any other way to purchase the guide?

Fisher Ahsan says

May 16, 2023 at 9:44 pm

Last year i visited Lofoten . a really lovely place

Holly Taylor says

July 29, 2023 at 5:53 pm

Hello thank you for this amazing blog!! I’m curious if we have 5 nights and are going to Norway on Nov 10 this year. I’ve read a lot about staying south due to the weather and shorter daylight. Would you have recommendations for 5 days in Nov? I want to be sure we plan where we can see the most. My husband & I are traveling with our 22 year old son and we are more interested in seeing all of the beautiful scenery and fjords etc. We will be coming from 7 days in Iceland.

July 31, 2023 at 11:44 am

If you want to see the fjords I would recommend flying to Ålesund and basing yourself there: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/alesund-travel-guide/ You could rent a car and explore Hjørundfjord: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/hjorundfjord-norway-beautiful-fjord/ . Or if you want a chance to see the northern lights, you could go to Lofoten: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/lofoten-road-trip/ or Vesterålen: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/vesteralen-whales-reindeer/ or Tromsø + Lyngenfjord: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/lyngen-alps-blaisvatnet-fjord-cabins/

November 12, 2023 at 5:02 pm

Hello Silvia! I appreciate all of information you’ve provided! My friends and I are in the early stages of planning a six-day trip to Northern Norway in February. We’re specifically interested in itineraries that rely solely on public transportation. Here are a couple of options we’re considering:

Option 1: Fly to Trondheim Take the Nordland line from Trondheim to Bodø Board the express boat Nordlandsekspressen (NEX1) from Bodø towards Sandnessjøen Explore various islands along the way Eventually reach Sandnessjøen for hiking and exploration Fly back to Oslo from Sandnessjøen

Option 2: Take a bus from Bodø to Hamarøy Continue by bus from Hamarøy to Narvik Travel by bus from Narvik to Tromsø Conclude the trip by flying back from Tromsø

Option 3: Start in Bodø Take a Hurtigruten ship to Tromsø Participate in organized trips/excursions from Tromsø

Considering our status as students and budget constraints, which option would you recommend? Your insights would be immensely helpful. Thank you!

November 14, 2023 at 8:58 am

Six days is such a short time, I think I wouldn’t try to do quite as much. I would maybe fly into Bodø, take the express boat down to Træna, Støtt, etc. Then return to Bodø and fly back to Oslo. If you really wanted to see another area as well you could take the ferry to Lofoten.

December 1, 2023 at 5:00 am

Hello! I am going to be visiting Norway for the first time in late April. I want to work from North to South with the end destination being Copenhagen. How difficult would it be during this time to take public transport from Trondheim to Oslo and see all the southern fjords along the way? Oslo to Copenhagen via ferry would be the final move.

December 1, 2023 at 10:18 pm

The most direct public transport from Trondheim to Oslo would be by train, but then you’d miss all the fjords. You could instead take the express boat to Kristiansund and then take buses and/or ferries down to Bergen, and then the train from Bergen to Oslo. Buses in Norway are a bit of a pain and expensive, but certainly doable!

January 21, 2024 at 5:45 pm

Hello Silvia, Thank you for all the useful information on your blog. I would appreciate some advice on journey times to get to Tromsø. I’m visiting Norway with my family this August for 19 days, including returning to Hoek Van Holland. We are driving our campervan from the UK (via Harwich / Hoek van Holland overnight ferry), and want to head straight to Tromsø, with some time for stopping to sleep/eat on the way. We’ll spend a few days there and then head back, stopping to camp, explore the countryside and also possibly visit Bergen/Oslo/beaches. Would it be best to head up to Tromsø via Sweden, then back down through Norway with more time to explore? Can you recommend some route ideas with rough travel times/good places to stop on the way? Thank you 🙂

January 24, 2024 at 12:05 pm

Driving up through Sweden will be quicker, and much less scenic, so I think driving back down through Norway is a great idea. Spend some time on the Helgeland Coast ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/helgeland-coast-road-trip/ ) and then you can drive down the west coast through Ålesund ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/alesund-travel-guide/ ) and Bergen ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/top-29-things-to-do-in-bergen-norway/ ) as well. From Tromsø to Bergen, via Ålesund, is about 30 hours of driving. You can follow this road trip plan for the west coast, except in reverse (ending in Bergen instead of beginning in Bergen): https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/aurlandsfjellet-sognefjellet-bergen-road-trip/

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5 Top Norway Road Trips: A Local Expert’s View

Embarking on a road trip around Norway is a great way to see what this breathtaking Scandinavian country has to offer. And making the most of your time away is all about getting your itinerary just right.

After all, you’ll want to catch sight of those incredible fjords and sweeping Arctic landscapes. But you’ll also need time to wind your way through UNESCO-listed Norwegian towns and cities such as Oslo and Bergen.

So what is the best way to do a driving tour of Norway ? Glad you asked! 

Expert-approved Norway road trip routes 

There are plenty of routes to choose from. That’s why we asked one of our Norway specialists, Sindre Matthíasson, if he could give us a breakdown of his favourite Norway driving routes. Whether you’re an intrepid road tripper, or are just starting out, let’s dive in. 

Sindre has recommended journeys ranging from 5-day express tours where you'll see some of Norway’s best attractions, to comprehensive 16-day itineraries that’ll take you across large parts of the country. Plus, there are lots of other options in between.

Top driving itineraries in Norway:

• 5-day tour around Lofoten Islands
• 7-day Norway round trip from Bergen
• 10-day tour from Oslo with fjords and waterfalls
• 10-day tour from Bergen with fjords and glaciers
• 16-day grand tour of Norway

1.  Express Lofoten – 5-day road trip in Northern Norway

A 5-day driving tour of Norway may seem ambitious, but it is wholly achievable, especially if you set your sights on the gorgeous and scenic Lofoten Islands . This itinerary is ideal for birdwatchers, hikers, and travellers wishing to see the untouched northern terrain of Norway.

Experience the rugged wilderness of the Lofoten Islands, and explore the Arctic fjords, marvel at the majestic mountains, spy seabird colonies, and step off into beautiful villages like Henningsvær.

What’s the drive like?

The driving for this itinerary is light, roughly 158-252 kilometres (98-157 miles). And, you can drive it in two major stretches, each of which takes around 2 hours. For more information, see our guide to  driving in Norway .

What itinerary is best for a 5-day Norway road trip?

Day 1 – Start in Svolvær, the hub of the Lofoten Islands, where you can spend the day investigating the delightful shops and cafes in the main town, and if you’re feeling adventurous, hike Svolværgeita, the mountain that overlooks the town.

Day 2 – On your second day in Svolvær, bring your camera and head to Trollfjord, known for its watersports, fishing villages, and incredible birdlife. Make time especially for Henningsvær, affectionately known as the “Venice of Lofoten” because of its pretty maritime looks.

Day 3 – Drive to Reine today, where you can take the national tourist road that runs through the islands. Prepare for some excellent stopovers at places like the Lofotr Viking Museum for a little Norse history, and to Gimsøya and Haukland beach for seaside views and fun.  

Day 4 – In Reine, make the most of the fjords, by enjoying watersports in Reinefjorden, and panoramic views with a hike to Reinebringen. You can also duck into the local Norwegian Fishing Village Museum to learn about the culture and heritage of these islands.

Day 5 – Hop in your car and head back to Svolvær, where you can extend your trip, or fly to Oslo and investigate the charms of Norway’s capital. 

Best Norway road trip for: A short break with incredible scenery.

• Have it organised for you: experience the Lofoten road trip tour
• Explore: Lofoten Islands tours & vacation packages
• Related: My Lofoten: charming villages & dramatic landscapes

2. The Norway Express Route – 7-day driving tour of Norway

If you’ve got a whole week to plan a Norway self-driving tour , then your best bet is to travel along the central part of the country’s coast, starting and ending in Bergen. This itinerary brings you face-to-face with some of the nation’s most glorious fjords, and gives you a chance to wind your way around some of Europe’s most exciting roadways.

The route is circular and perfect for coastal, lakeside and inland exploration, without making you feel like you’re racing from attraction to attraction. Plus, the extra days give you enough time to step away from the wheel and head out to sea on a spectacular overnight cruise.

This is a mid-level road trip, with drive times varying between 2-hour and 4-hour stints. Total driving for this trip is around 554 kilometres (344 miles).

What itinerary is best for a 7-day Norway road trip?

Day 1 – Kick off your trip in Bergen , the second-largest city in Norway, and home to the incredible UNESCO-listed Bryggen . This historic part of the city is an old wharf, filled with museums, markets, cafes, and shops. You could also pop up the funicular railway, the Fløibanen, to see Bergen from above.

Day 2 – On your second day, head to Voss and seek out the famed Tvindefossen waterfall nearby (see image). Driving on will take you past several gorgeous coastal towns, and panoramic views of Aurlandsfjord .

Stop off in Flåm , where you can ride the jaw-dropping Flåmsbana railway to Myrdal . Then take a short ferry ride to Sogndal which sits on Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord .

Day 3 – Today, make for Loen . This is a short drive, so you'll have more time to enjoy at each stop – see mainland Europe’s largest icecap, the Jostedal glacier , and pop into the Norwegian Glacier Museum. Once in Loen, take the skylift, so you can see both the town and the spectacular Nordfjord.

Day 4 – Next up, is Geiranger. To get there you'll board a ferry and sail through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord . Here you will see celebrated waterfalls like the Bridal Veil and the Seven Sisters .

Day 5 – In the morning, drive up the winding slopes of  The Eagle Road , and hop on a short ferry to Linge before winding your way around the Trollstigen  – The Troll Ladder. In the afternoon, board a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise and head south towards Bergen.

Top tip : in the summer months, you could enjoy coastal views from the ship deck under the midnight sun before returning to your private cabin.

Day 6 – Today, you’ll reach the endpoint of the cruise and road trip in Bergen . Rounding off your trip here means you can either spend time hiking the seven (that’s right, seven!) mountains that surround the city, or see attractions like Håkon’s Hall in Bergenhus fortress.

Day 7 – It’s time to set your sat nav for the airport. If you still have some time, you can stroll down to the harbourside and grab breakfast or lunch at one of the delightful cafes in town, and grab some souvenirs. 

Best Norway road trip for: A whistlestop tour of the north

• Sound good? Ask us about Scenic Norway - Express
• Related: In brief: what to do in Bergen
• Related: Best Time to Go and Visit Norway

3. The Classic Norway Route – 10 day driving tour of Norway

This classic route is for any traveller who wants to tick off all the main attractions during their holiday across Norway . This scenic drive includes the cities of Oslo and Bergen, plus national tourist routes that go past stunning fjords such as Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord.

And let’s not forget world-famous waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters and the Bridal Veil.

For a bucket list driving tour of Norway, this is your ticket. Beyond the charms of the attractions, 10 days here allows for a few days away from the wheel, so you can bask in the atmosphere of the country’s rugged landscape.

This is a circular route starting in Oslo, with a total driving distance of 1,344 kilometres (836 miles). Spread across the 10 days, you’ll find that you shouldn’t have to drive more than about 4 hours at a time.

What itinerary is best for a 10-day classic Norway road trip?

Day 1 – Oslo is your starting point, and you should head into the city centre before you rent a car, to enjoy this sophisticated capital. See the Royal Palace, the Norwegian Maritime Museum, and the incredible Akershus Fortress.

Day 2 – On your first driving day, go north to lovely Lillehammer , set inland, and the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics. Visit the Olympic Museum and arena, but don’t forget to pop your head into the Maihaugen open-air museum, which is made up of 200 buildings, some of which date back to the 1400s!

Day 3 – On your third day, you’ll swap cultural attractions for natural ones, as you sweep into the Gudbrandsdalen valley, which is flanked by several national parks. On your way to Geiranger, stop off at the Dalsnibba skywalk where you can gaze at magnificent views of Geirangerfjord and the Blåbreen glacier.

Day 4 – Indulge in a spot of kayaking or watersports along the Geirangerfjord in the morning, then take a ferry to Loen. Once you’re on the water you’ll be able to marvel at the Seven Sisters and the Bridal Veil, vaunted waterfalls of the region. 

Day 5 – From Loen, you can drive south to the Jostedal glacier, the largest in mainland Europe. You can learn all about it in the Norwegian Glacier Museum in Fjærland. Learn how the fjords of the region are carved, before getting to Sogndal, situated in Sognefjord, the deepest and longest fjord in the country.

Day 6 – Today, take another ferry, this time from Sognefjord to the gorgeous Aurlandsfjord. Once you’re back on dry land, pull over in Flåm to ride the legendary rails. Lastly, don’t forget to make time for Voss  –  the adventure capital of Norway  –  on your way to Bergen.

Day 7 – Stay in Bergen, where you can wander the ancient streets of the UNESCO-listed Bryggen, tour the delightful museums, or enjoy the views from the top of Mount Fløyen by taking the Fløibanen Funicular.

Day 8 – On the eighth day be swept away by the scenic charms of Hardangerfjord and the impressive natural sites of the Hardangervidda National park. Whilst heading to your end-point Geilo, make time for Vøringfossen, the highest waterfall in Norway.

Day 9 – Before you make that drive to Oslo, mark your map for Gol. Here, you’ll find the renowned Gol Stave Church, a Viking village, and if you keep your eyes sharp, you may even see trolls in the Trollkirka Caves.

Day 10 – It’s never a bad idea to spend another night in Oslo. Go to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, and the Norse Folkemuseum, before relaxing with a well-deserved drink.

Best Norway road trip for: Classic attractions.

• Have it organised for you: book the Norway Road Trip - Classic
• Related: Top romantic getaways to have in Norway

4. The Complete Norway Route - 10-day driving tour of Norway

If you’re interested in seeing the epic waterways, glaciers and fjords of Norway, this is the tour for you. It's 10 days-long, and starts and ends in Bergen From here you'll wind your way through Geirangerfjord, the gorgeous Balestrand region and pretty Loen. 

This is an ideal summer itinerary, as you'll have access to the fjords. This means plenty of time to try your hand at kayaking, swimming and cruising across those glorious fjords. Nature lovers will adore this road trip!

This is an exciting route that takes you on Trollstigen on the way to Ålesund, as well as on the Eagle Road. In total, the distance you’ll cover is 1,234 kilometres (777 miles), with each driving stretch achievable in 3 to 4 hour stints.

What itinerary is best for a 10-day complete Norway road trip?

Day 1 – Begin in  Bergen , the colourful coastal city, which is home to the UNESCO-protected Bryggen, an old wharf made up of beautiful heritage buildings. Explore the city by ducking into shops and dining in the hip restaurants in town.

Day 2 – There is plenty more to see in the “capital of the fjords”. Take the Fløibanen Funicular up to Mount Fløyen to see Bergen from above. Then, you can either hike within the mountains that surround the city – there are seven! – or investigate the museums, such as the Edvard Grieg museum and the KODE art museum.

Day 3 – Kick off your fjord tour by driving towards Voss, where you can witness the might of the Tvindefossen waterfall. Then head towards Sogndal, where you will pass by Flåm and its famous railway – hop on board for stunning valley views.

Day 4 – Sogndal could be the poster child for Norway, especially as it is located on the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in the nation. Swim or kayak in the fjord, or bike along the coast. Then go to Urnes to see one of the oldest stave churches in Norway , or visit the dazzling Nigarsbreen glacier.

Day 5 – A trip to the fjords of Norway wouldn’t be complete without going to magical Geiranger, filled with snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and towering waterfalls. But first, you’ll drive north along the celebrated National Tourist Route “Sognefjellsvegen”, the highest mountain pass in northern Europe which passes through the glorious Jotunheimen national park.

Day 6 – Today is made for road trip enthusiasts – wind your way up Ørnevegen, known as “The Eagle Road” to Eidsdal. Then, after a short ferry ride to Linge, you’ll be able to tackle the twisting Trollstigen, or Troll Ladder – one of the best-known roads in Norway. End in Ålesund , celebrated for its fantastic Art Nouveau architecture.

Day 7 – Hop on a ferry to Loen, where you’ll sail past beautiful fjords like Vartdalsfjorden, Østrafjorden and Voldsfjorden. Once you get to this lovely town, stretch your legs on a hike up Mount Skåla, which promises gorgeous views from the top.

Day 8 – Scenic roads and hairpin turns are on today’s agenda. The drive to arty Balestrand will take you past the lakes of Jölstravanet and Hakedalsvatnet, right up to the mesmerising Gaularfjellet route. You’ll find yourself wanting to stop often to take photos – we recommend Utsikten for a perfect snapshot of the scenery.

Day 9 – Take your time exploring the picturesque village of Balestrand, and then pick the leisurely route back to Bergen. For instance, take the ferry from Balestrand to Vangsnes and visit Vik, where you can duck into the oldest stone building in the region, Hove Church. Then cruise in the car along Vik mountain before getting back to the city.

Day 10 – On your last day, pop into the Bergenhus Fortress Museum, a fascinating window into the city’s past, and wander down to the Old Bergen Open-Air Museum, which can show you what life was like in days gone by. And lastly, stock up on Norwegian treats like multekrem and krumkake before you depart!

Best Norway road trip for: Fjords and incredible roadways.

• Have it organised for you: Norway fjord route by car - complete
• Related: Bergen, Norway: Gateway to the Fjords 

5. The Norwegian Grand Tour – 16-day driving tour of Norway

The saying might be “you can’t see it all”, but on this trip you will come pretty close. This 16-day itinerary focuses on showcasing the best of Norway, but also takes you to some lesser-known national attractions.This is a trip that also allows you to hop on trains or boats so you can see those incredible mountain passes via the railways, or marvel at the fjords from the water.

Visit stunning Oslo and beautiful Bergen, explore sweeping alpine landscapes, tour pretty fishing villages, and swim in pristine fjords all on this fabulous self-driven tour of Norway.

Whilst this is itinerary may be the longest in days, it’s not the longest when it comes to driving. This is because we’ve factored in trips on public transportation, scenic train journeys, as well as cruises. The driving distance in total comes to about 905 kilometres (562 miles), and is sectioned off in manageable 2-4 hour chunks.

What itinerary is best for a 16-day comprehensive Norway road trip?

Day 1 – Your adventure starts in  Oslo , the capital of Norway, and a great place to kick off a cultural tour. Stroll to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Oslo City Hall, and the Kon-Tiki Museum on your first day.

Day 2 – On your second, go to the stunning Akershus Fortress , and the Royal Palace, and then spend time in the Aker Brygge area, where you’ll find a seaside boardwalk, upmarket and cute boutiques, patio bars, and plenty of excellent restaurants.

Day 3 – From Oslo, take a train that weaves its tracks through the mountains of Norway, all the way to  Bergen . This city is home to the charming UNESCO-listed Bryggen, an old wharf filled with colourful clapboard heritage buildings. A must-see.

Day 4 – Today you should pick up your rental car in Norway, because you’ll be driving towards Voss to chase its Tvindefossen waterfall, and then onto the remarkable Aurlandsfjord and the lovely town of Flåm. If you fancy it, we recommend going on a return train ride from Flåm to Myrdal for sweeping views of the landscape – bring your camera! Then drive on from Flåm to Sogndal.

Day 5 – Sogndal is set on the Sognefjord , so exploring fjords is on the itinerary today. Drive the Fjærlands road to the Jostedal Glacier, and after that chilly stop, slide by Nordfjord, where cascading waterfalls, rising mountains, and sapphire lakes will greet you. End in Loen for the night.

Day 6 – Explore a little of lovely Loen, then take the ferry through the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord. This is where you’ll see the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil waterfalls , perhaps Norway’s most famous falls. At the end of the ferry ride, you’ll get to stay in the town of Geiranger, the stuff fairytales are made of. Think pristine fjords and sugar-topped mountains studded with emerald trees.

Day 7 – You couldn’t get all the way to Geiranger and not spend another night there. Soak in the magical atmosphere of this alpine haven, and kayak or take a boat safari across the fjord. You can also take your rental car up to the Dalsnibba skywalk for unparalleled views.

Day 8 – Why have a car if you can’t make the most of it? Climb the winding ways of Eagle Road , then cruise across, car and all, on a ferry to Linge. Once there, you can try your hand at the extremely fun, and gorgeous Trollstigen road, known for its 11 hairpin bends, before stopping for the night at Ålesund.

Day 9 – Keep to the coast today, as you’ll be heading to the harbourside Kristiansund down the Atlantic road. First, drive and ferry your way to beautiful Bud, a historic trading village, and then onto to the Atlantic Ocean Road, which is cradled by mountains that look out to the sea, a route which road trip dreams are made of.

Day 10 – Norway may be an adventure, but this country breeds adventurers too, and nowhere is this more true than in Trondheim , the capital of the Vikings. Explore this remarkable port city in northern Norway, and duck into its Trøndelag Folk Museum, the old wharf Bakklandet, and the Nidaros Cathedral.

Day 11 – Of course, why come to the Viking capital if you aren’t going to get to taste a little sea life?  Leave your rental car behind and go on an overnight cruise, where you can sail along the Trondheim fjord out to Hitra Island.

Day 12 – You’ll dock in Bergen, giving you a chance to see everything you might have missed first time around, such as the Old Bergen Open-Air Museum, and the Hanseatic Museum in Bryggen.

Day 13 – With so much to see, it’s worth another night in this city. We recommend going to the Bergenhus Fortress, where you can see King Håkon’s Hall, and the Rosenkrantz Tower.  And since you’re by the sea, why not try pickled herring? This ancient Viking favourite is still a local staple.

Day 14 – From Bergen you will board a coach that will take you down the rugged western coast of Norway, and on a couple of spectacular ferry rides, all the way down to Stavanger , a lively city known for its historical district Gamle.

Day 15 – Using Stavanger as a base, you can easily explore this majestic region of Norway, including Lysefjord and its surrounding terrain. You’ll also be able to see the iconic natural landmark known as Pulpit Rock .

Day 16 – On your last morning in Stavanger, spend time along the harbour, and investigate the restaurants and cute museums in the Gamle area. Relax, sit back, enjoy the atmosphere, you’re done!

Best Norway road trip for: Those who want to see it all.

• Have it organised for you: look into the Scenic Norway - grand tour
• Related: Hiking the Pulpit Rock in Norway

To set up your own Norway road trip with a little expert help from a Scandinavian travel specialist, contact us with your travel wish list.

Greg Perkins is from Edinburgh, Scotland, but he adopted Iceland as his second country when Scotland (typically) managed not to qualify for football's Euro 2016 tournament. His passions include travel, English literature, and board games. Among his top travel experiences are sailing along Geirangerfjord with classically trained singers providing the soundtrack, seeing Sólheimajökull glacier up close in South Iceland, and witnessing the unspoiled beauty of New Zealand's Doubtful Sound fjord.

Find Greg on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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With a Norway vacation package, you can forget about the stress of planning and focus on experiencing all this wonderful destination has to offer. The best way to plan your trip to Norway is to start with its most well-known cities, which include Oslo , Gardermoen and Ullensaker . From the moment you book your Norway vacation to the second you come back home, Expedia has your back every step of the way.

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Norway is as spectacularly beautiful as it is rugged. It’s home to more than 1,000 fjords, where majestic cliffs with waterfalls tower above still blue lakes.

Norway Hotel + Flights

The smartest way to save on your escape is to create a Norway Vacation Package with Expedia. With 5,703 hotels starting at $80 a night to choose from, you’ll get more bang for your Norwegian krone (the local currency) than if you booked separately. All you need for your trip — flights, hotels, car rental, tours and experiences — can be bundled into your package. The famous Geirangerfjord and those dazzling northern lights are only clicks away.

Your Norway Vacation Itinerary

Day 1-2: Oslo is the ideal place to begin your Norway adventure. Learn all about the region's rich history at the Viking Ship Museum and the Norsk Folkemuseum, then wander around the 200 sculptures at Vigeland Park. Wrap up your day with some shopping on Oslo's main street, Karl Johans gate.

Day 3-4: Drive northwest in a rental car through breathtaking scenery on the way to Geirangerfjord, arguably the world’s most impressive fjord. Take a scenic cruise or hike, bike, ski and kayak your way around the region.

Day 5-7: Fly north to the Arctic Circle to witness one of Mother Nature's most magical performances. The northern lights can be viewed from near Tromsø. Spend your days on the slopes and your evenings around a campfire, gazing at the dancing skies.

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Foodies shouldn't miss the biggest food festival in Scandinavia, Gladmat, held in Stavanger each July. Be sure to bring your appetite and an empty stomach.

If you’ll be spending most of your time in the capital, check out our Oslo Vacation Packages .

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in norway, kristiansand zoo.

Visit the native and exotic animals who live at Kristiansand Zoo during your travels in Kristiansand. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Geirangerfjord

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Geirangerfjord during your travels in Stranda. Discover the area's mountain views and waterfalls.

The famous cape on the island of Magerøya is known for its tall jagged cliff with viewing areas and a range of excellent facilities for visitors.

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Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise

• Visit the stunning Longyearbyen
• Discover Prins Karls Foreland
• Explore north west of Spitsbergen
• See Lilliehöök Glacier on Svalbard

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard (Northbound)

• Explore the rare northern fjords
• Paddle in a deep fjord
• Explore Lofoten Islands
• Visit the famous building in Tromso

Svalbard Odyssey

• Explore Longyearbyen
• Experience Camp Barentz
• Visit Svalbard Museum
• Look out for birdlife

Svalbard and the Northern Fjords

• Make for the wilder wilds
• Discover the islands and fjords
• Actively explore the scenery
• Explore the coves and inlets

Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard

The norwegian fjords, bear island, and svalbard.

• Explore coastal Norway
• Sail by Torghatten's ice sheets
• Visit the Polar Museum in Tromso
• Cruise in a Zodiac to Bear Island
• Search for Arctic wildlife
• View the fjords of Hornsund

Norwegian Fjords & Crossing the Arctic Circle

• Cruise through Sognefjord and Flåm
• Explore Art Nouveau architecture
• Sail through Geirangerfjord
• Cruise past Lofoten Islands

Svalbard in Depth

• Seek out Arctic wildlife
• Experience Arctic
• Discover Svalbard

Spitsbergen: Realm of the Ice Bear

• Discover Spitsbergen
• Enjoy tundra hikes
• Venture close to 80° north
• Discover Longyearbyen

Heart of Svalbard

• Explore Tromso
• Experience the North Cape
• Explore Svalbard
• Arctic Wildlife Encounters

Land of the Ice Bears: An In-Depth Exploration of Arctic Svalbard

• View polar bears on the pack ice
• Observe walruses and other wildlife
• Hike, walk, Zodiac cruise & kayak
• Enjoy superlative photos ops

Around Spitsbergen, In the Realm of Polar Bear & Ice

• Discover unspoiled wilderness
• Spot iconic arctic wildlife
• Explore the arctic's landscapes
• Watch for the elusive beluga whale

Classic Voyage North

• Cruise through Geirangerfjord
• Cross the Arctic Circle
• Explore small fishing villages
• Meet a local Sami family

Around Spitsbergen, In the realm of Polar Bear & Ice

• Spot minke whale
• Catch Arctic fox and bearded seal
• Discover Monaco Glacier
• See polar bears at Seven Islands
• Enjoy Bell Sund's flora and fauna

Alpine Peaks of Spitsbergen, Ski & Sail

• Watch for polar bears and walrus
• Visit Kongsfjorden and Isfjord
• Ski the snowy Arctic terrain
• Enjoy zodiac cruising and hiking

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• Explore Narvik
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Norway Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Norway by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Norway will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

25 Norway small group tours with 97 reviews

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Norway Fjord Trekking

I LOVED this tour!! It was pricey but that's just what Norway costs. We did four hikes in total throughout the trip and they all had different challenges and amazing scenery, and they were well spaced with a rest day before the final Trolltunga hike. I'd say anyone in reasonable shape should be fine for this tour - there were some spots with steep rocks and we had to use a rope to help pull ourselves up, but you definitely don't need any advanced hiking or climbing skills. Our guide, Karl, was really friendly and knowledgeable, giving us lots of fun facts about Norway and the regions we were in. 100% would recommend this tour!

• Northern Lights

Northern Norway Explorer

I enjoyed the days in Norway. It is a fast paced itinerary but you never get bored at one place. Despite the pace I had quite some hours at each place where we stopped and hiked around. The trip definition matched my expectations. My travel fellows are quite diverse in terms of culture background and age. I think intrepid did a good job to make a satisfying tour for such a diverse group.

Beautiful Norway

Tailor-Made Private Norway Tour to Scenic Sognefjord

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural

4 days in charming Alesund

Excellent - very informative

Follow Hollywood Celebrities on the Norwegian Fjords

Highlights Norway Hurtigruten Cruise Norwegian Fjords and Expert Tour Guide

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Norway in a Nutshell (Oslo to Bergen via Flam)

Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights

Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!! Jann was friendly and educated/answered all questions even with personal stories! We were very lucky and had a great viewing night and Jann had prepared us for the post that we would not see anything, would highly suggest the Jann experience to everyone!

Lofoten & the Fjords (by cruise and rail)*Lovely Lofoten & Fantastic Fjords*

Norway in a Nutshell (Bergen to Oslo via Flam)

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Walking the Fjords

This tour was so much fun. I can’t say enough about the beauty of Norway. Each of the five hikes provided a unique aspect to the rugged, unique terrain. Nes Gard, the accommodations, friendly staff and absolutely wonderful food each evening, far exceeded my expectations. My only regret was that I had not gotten in just a bit better shape physically. I would call this tour “Hiking the Fjords.” That being said, it is just moderately strenuous and every step up the mountain is worth what awaits!

Sailing, Northern Lights and Whales

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Active and rewarding trip.

This was a bit challenging for me The guide Shane was wonderful

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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

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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.

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Could Mexico's Chepe Express be the ultimate slow rail adventure?

Take an epic rail adventure into the Copper Canyon for river kayaking, zip-lining and opportunities to learn from remote Indigenous Rarámuri communities.

Travelling 220 miles through northwestern Mexico from the coastal city of Los Mochis in Sinaloa to the mountain town of Creel in Chihuahua, the Chepe Express is one of Mexico’s few long-distance passenger trains –– and an epic one at that. The train travels through ravines, deserts, gorges and rivers, via 37 bridges and 86 tunnels, to reach the Copper Canyon, a chain of six UNESCO-protected rocky canyons in the Sierra Madre Occidental. Often referred to as the Sierra Tarahumara because of the Indigenous communities that live here, combined they form a gorge that’s four times larger than the Grand Canyon in the US.

The Chepe Express has six modern passenger cars divided into three classes: First Class has panoramic windows, reclining seats and one on-board meal included in the train’s Urike restaurant, which serves traditional dishes from the states of Chihuahua and Sinaloa; Executive Class has spacious seating and access to its own bar; and Tourist Class includes basic, but comfortable upright seating and an on-board snack service.

The journey, which takes nine hours to complete, can be done in a day. However, a hop-on, hop-off ticket allows passengers to explore the Copper Canyon’s towns and sights at a slower pace, staying in hotels or Airbnbs along the route. Highlights include visiting vineyards and waterfalls around the 17 th -century Jesuit town of Cerocahui, located on the edge of the Copper Canyon’s deepest gorge, Barranca de Urique; riding the world’s second-longest zip-line at the Copper Canyon Adventure Park near Divisadero train station, where the mighty Urique and Tararecua rivers converge; and kayaking along the forested Fuerte River.

But perhaps the most singular experience in the Copper Canyon is spending time with the Rarámuri, an Indigenous group that’s lived in the state of Chihuahua for nearly 2,000 years. The arrival of the Spanish in the 16 th century pushed the Rarámuri –– also known as Tarahumara, the name given to them by the Spanish 400 years ago –– into the most remote parts of the Copper Canyon.

Today, the Rarámuri, which loosely translates to ‘runners on foot’ in the Rarámuri language, are best known for their ultra-running abilities, demonstrated in international races and local games like palillo , which involves carrying and throwing a ball over the Copper Canyon’s deep gorges and ravines for several days –– and several hundred miles –– on foot. But running isn’t the Rarámuri’s only skill: cooking with healthy ingredients like blue corn and weaving baskets from natural fibres are just some of the things you can learn while exploring this remote part of northwestern Mexico with them.

Three must-do Rarámuri experiences in the Copper Canyon  

1.   Huetosachi cooking & weaving class

In the small Rarámuri village of Huetosachi, 60 miles north of Divisadero station (the penultimate stop on the Chepe Express), the women offer traditional cooking and weaving classes in their homes. First, you’ll learn how to make pinole   –– an ancient drink made with ground corn that Rarámuri runners use to fuel their ultra-marathons –– and tortillas made with blue corn, also favoured by Rarámuri runners for the bread’s high-protein content and anti-inflammatory properties. Then comes the delicate art of basket weaving using the leaves of the yucca plant, which grows wild across the Americas, or sotol, a plant native to the Chihuahuan desert.

2.   The Giants Trail

The Copper Canyon’s rocky cliffs and deep ravines mean that, even today, numerous parts of it can only be accessed on foot. Generations of Rarámuri runners have carved hundreds of trails into the canyon, many of which carry their own legends. Take a guided hike of the three-hour Giants Trail, led by Rarámuri runners from the Bacajipare community, to learn about Los Ganoko –– mischievous giants that are said to roam the canyon near the Urique River. Additional one-hour hikes to nearby rock paintings and Rarámuri cave tombs can also be organised in Bacajipare.

3.   Museo Tarahumara de Arte Popular  

Located in Creel’s old train station, the Museo Tarahumara de Arte Popular traces the history and culture of the Rarámuri people from the beginning of Rarámuri life in Chihuahua 2,000 years ago through to the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century and up to the present day. The permanent exhibition includes displays of Rarámuri art and textiles, cultural celebrations and religious ceremonies, as well as a collection of 62 photos by French photographer Gérard Tournebize, who lived with and documented the lives of Rarámuri people in the Copper Canyon from 1989 to 1991. Attached to the museum is Casa de las Artesanías, a shop selling traditional Rarámuri arts and crafts.

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

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Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

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Go Norway provides guided e-bike tours in beautiful Kristiansand. Enjoy our top-rated tours, including e-bike rental and personalized group activities. Visit our cafe at Kommandantboligen on Odderøya in Kristiansand for a cup of coffee and a local snack and book your next adventure.

Last updated: 04/26/2024

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Denmark’s best vacation spot, as voted for by danes.

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The small town and fishing port Gudhjem is a highlights of Denmark's Bornholm Island.

Scandinavians don’t always need to board charter flights to enjoy a summer beach vacation. In fact, they don’t even need a car. Known as the sunshine island, Bornholm invites visitors to experience its beautiful beaches and rustic villages for an authentic Scandinavian summer vacation.

Accessible by ferry or fast catamaran from Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, this Baltic Sea island boasts an efficient network of cycle lanes and buses, making it possible to traverse its scenic routes without a vehicle.

Although off-the-radar to many international tourists, Bornholm is known among Scandinavians as one of the best places to visit in Denmark .

So much so, that Bornholm was crowned Denmark’s favorite domestic vacation destination in the most recent Danish Travel Awards for the second consecutive year. Votes are compiled by an independent research company from a panel of frequent travelers and industry experts.

Whether it’s cycling along coastal paths, sampling gourmet seafood in a charming village, or relaxing on pristine beaches, Bornholm offers family-friendly attractions a world away from the busy cities of Scandinavia.

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‘baby reindeer’ star says real martha searches need to stop, meet the new billionaires from petco breitling owner cvc, arrival in rønne.

Home to 13,000 residents, Rønne is the largest town on Bornholm and the arrival point for all the ferries. But those traveling without a car needn't restrict their trip to the town.

Upon arriving in Rønne, you can access convenient bus services provided by BAT . Buses connect the harbor to major towns and summer cottage areas, coordinating their schedules with ferry arrivals and departures.

You can board or alight the district buses at almost any point along the main roads; simply signal the driver clearly.

The cobbled streets of Bornholm’s oldest part are well worth a wander.

Before moving on from Rønne, it’s worth spending some time exploring. The town's well-preserved architecture, dating back to the 1800s, lines quaint cobblestone streets, inviting visitors to slow down.

Key sights include the Rønne Theater, one of the oldest in Denmark, and several local museums that delve into the island's maritime and wartime past.

Bornholm’s Historic Sites

For history enthusiasts, the medieval fortress of Hammershus provides insights into Denmark's past. Located on the northern tip of Bornholm, Hammershus is the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe and dates back to the 13th century.

It offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture and the island's strategic importance through centuries of conflict.

Visitors can explore the extensive ruins, which include massive walls and towers overlooking the Baltic Sea, and a visitor center with exhibits detailing the castle's history and the region's cultural heritage.

Østerlars Round Church is one of four famous round churches on the island. These circular designs were originally intended to serve a dual purpose: religious worship and defense against invaders, reflecting the turbulent times during its construction. Inside, there are ancient frescoes and a centrally placed baptismal font that dates back to the medieval period.

Beaches Of Bornholm

For beach enthusiasts, Bornholm does not disappoint. Dueodde Beach on Bornholm's southern tip is renowned for its exceptionally fine, white sand—once used in hourglasses—and expansive stretches that offer both solitude and accessibility.

The beach begins as a narrow strip by Snogebæk and widens significantly near the southern point. Clear, shallow waters near the shore deepen quickly, making it ideal for swimming.

Extensive dunes provide sheltered spots for privacy, and ramps from main parking areas make it accessible for bikes, buggies, and wheelchairs.

Dueodde, the white sandy beach on the south coast of Bornholm, Denmark.

The nearby lighthouse offers breathtaking views, enhancing Dueodde's status as a year-round destination, celebrated for its scenic beauty.

Farther to the east near the town of Nexø, Balka Beach is another popular choice among visitors to Bornholm. Known for its soft sand and shallow waters, Balka is particularly well-suited for families with small children, but keen swimmers will prefer Dueodde.

Beyond The Beaches

Svaneke, located on Bornholm's east coast, is known for its picturesque harbor that draws many visitors. Its well-preserved town center features quaint streets lined with red-roofed, yellow lime-washed, half-timbered houses.

Outdoor activities include extensive footpaths and cycle tracks, and nearby Joboland amusement park provides family entertainment with its waterpark and petting zoo.

Beyond the allure of sunshine, Svaneke and other quaint towns like Gudhjem are culinary hotspots where travelers can indulge in famed local delicacies such as smoked herring, exquisite ice creams, and locally brewed ales.

Gudhjem, in particular, is celebrated for hosting a prestigious national cooking competition, adding a flavorful layer to the island’s appeal.

The island also harbors a rich artistic identity with a creative spirit found in the various small workshops and galleries. This spirit is especially visible in Nexø, which is home to a renowned ceramics school.

How To Travel To Bornholm

For the most authentic Bornholm experience, join the Scandinavian tradition of traveling by ferry. For ferry fares, timetables, and booking, check the website of operator Bornholmslinjen .

The quickest way is to travel from Southern Sweden’s Ystad, from where several daily catamarans whisk passengers to Bornholm in just over an hour. Trains and buses are available from Copenhagen to Ystad.

A 5.5-hour night ferry operates from Køge, an hour south of Copenhagen, while a daily service also runs from Sassnitz in Germany.

It’s also possible to fly to the small airport on Bornholm, located just to the southeast of Rønne. The small Danish airline DAT operates several daily flights from Copenhagen, with less frequent services available from Aalborg and Billund.

Where To Stay on Bornholm

Although day trips to Bornholm are popular, you’ll get more out of your visit by staying at least a night to enjoy the long, summer evenings.

Bornholm features a variety of accommodation options, including the newly established Eco Beach Camp . This beachside glamping site provides a luxurious experience of waking up to the sound of the waves, with supper and breakfast included in rates.

For a more secluded stay, numerous summer houses are available for weekly rental through agencies such as Dancenter. These rentals generally require guests to bring their own essentials, including bed linen.

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