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Norway has become a popular travel destination for tourists from all around the world, and it comes as no surprise. From stunning fjords to lively cities, there’s certainly no shortage of famous and beautiful places to visit in Norway!
Whether you fancy a city break, a Northern Lights hunt or an adventure to the Norwegian islands, Norway has something for you. Wondering where to visit in Norway? Let’s discover our curated guide to the best places to visit in Norway. From the most beautiful natural sights to Norway’s best cities and everywhere in between!
Perfect for City Breaks: The Best Cities to Visit in Norway
Oslo
Norway's capital is a perfect place to start your Norwegian adventure. One of the best cities to visit in Norway, the vibrant center is bursting with cultural and historical attractions to keep you busy. Here, you can wonder at some art in the Munch Museum, enjoy the fascinating Viking Ship Museum and even catch a show at the Oslo Opera House.
You’ll be spoiled for choice with Oslo’s excellent food, shopping and nightlife. Take a peek into Norway’s past at the 13th century fortress turned tourist attraction: Akershus Castle. Oslo is also surrounded by beautiful parks and forests, including the iconic Frogner Park. It features more than 200 bronze, granite and cast iron sculptures by the Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland.
It is always a good idea to rent rent a campervan or a motorhome in Oslo and start your Norwegian adventure.
Bergen
Located on Norway's west coast, Bergen is a picturesque city. It is known for its colorful wooden houses, fish markets, and UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf. You can explore the city's rich history at the Hanseatic Museum. Or you can take the funicular (similar to a cable car) up to Mount Floyen for stunning views of the city and surrounding area.
Bergen is one of the best cities to visit in Norway for amazing views, potentially including the famous aurora borealis. It is an optimal place to view the Northern Lights in Norway due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. Just make sure to bring a rain jacket when you visit this beautiful city, which is fondly known as the 'heart of the fjords', as you will be able to see the best fjords of Norway.
Tromso
Known as the ‘gateway to the Arctic’, Tromso is a lively city located in northern Norway. In Tromso, you can explore museums and galleries. You can also enjoy some fun outdoor winter activities in Norway. The best ones are dog sledding, snowshoeing or even snowmobiling in the surrounding mountains.
Your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are very high in Tromso, due to its location inside the Arctic Circle. One of the best places to visit in Norway, Tromso offers something for everyone. Whether buzzing nightlife is your thing or you prefer to relax in the tranquility of nature, you can tick every box in Tromso.
Stavanger
Located on Norway's southwest coast, Stavanger is a charming city known for its historic wooden houses. The city has a lively cultural scene and is close to some of Norway's most famous natural attractions. The most famous ones are the Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten mountain.
As Norway’s fourth-largest city, Stavanger is home to a stunning cathedral that dates back to the 12th century. If you’d like to learn more about the oil industry, you can check out the Norwegian Petroleum Museum on the harbor. When exploring the city, be sure to check out the famous Ovre Holmegate shopping street, famous for its colorful houses.
Trondheim
Norway's third-largest city, Trondheim, is one of the best places to visit in Norway as it offers something for everybody. It is known for the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, which is built over the burial site of King Olav II.
You can spend time touring Trondheim’s many museums and galleries, or take a scenic boat tour along the nearby Trondheim Fjord. You’re sure to have a brilliant time in this beautiful Norwegian city.
Foodies will be well at home in Trondheim, which was named the European Region of Gastronomy in 2022. Sample some delicious Norwegian eats as you take a stroll around the magical center of one of the best cities to visit in Norway.
Alesund
The cultural center of the Sunnmore region, Alesund is a charming coastal city. It is located across several islands on the western coast of Norway. Less well-known, Alesund is one of the best places to visit in Norway to experience a relatively undiscovered city.
With a rich history and awe-inspiring landscapes, Alesund is one of the most beautiful places in Norway. From exploring the vibrant streets to reaching viewpoints for an outstanding view, there’s plenty to see and do in Alesund.
For Nature Lovers: The Most Beautiful Places in Norway
Geirangerfjord
One of Norway's most famous fjords, Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty. You can take a cruise along the fjord to enjoy the spectacular views, or visit the nearby waterfalls by foot if you fancy a challenge.
Surrounded by steep mountains and vast glaciers, Geirangerfjord is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Norway. For sure, one of our must-see places in Norway. You’ll be changing your phone wallpaper to Geirangerfjord as soon as you snap your first picture of this awe-inspiring natural wonder!
Lofoten Islands
Located above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are a remote collection of islands. They are known for their dramatic landscapes and picturesque fishing villages. These islands are definitely of the best places to visit in Norway to experience the country’s incredible natural beauty. From majestic mountains, white sandy beaches to turquoise waters. Furthermore, the islands are famous for viewing the Midnight Sun during winter.
Connect to nature as you enjoy some time in this beautiful place away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. You can take a hike in the mountains, go fishing or kayaking, or simply enjoy the peace and tranquility of this stunning area.
Preikestolen
Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is a steep cliff located in the Lysefjord near Stavanger. Of all the Norway sights to see, Preikestolen is perhaps the most popular hiking destination in the country. It offers panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding landscape.
The hike to Preikestolen is challenging, but worth the effort. If you don’t fancy the walk, you’ll be happy to know that you can also take a boat tour of the fjord to experience its beauty from the water.
Sognefjord
A popular destination for travelers, Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Famous for its extraordinary views, Sognefjord is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seals.
Known as the ‘King of the fjords’, Sognefjord stretches over 200 kilometers inland to the north of Bergen. Located on the west coast of the country, Sognefjord is a guaranteed attraction on every list of Norway's best sights to see for very good reason.
Svalbard Islands
If you fancy a trip further afield, the remote Svalbard Islands are the perfect place for you. These islands are located in the Arctic Ocean, around 2000 kilometers from Norway’s mainland. Svalbard is home to a variety of wildlife, including polar bears and reindeer.
The islands offer a unique opportunity to experience the Arctic region and Norwegian culture in a remote setting. What’s more, you have an amazing chance to see the Northern Lights at Svalbard!
Lysefjord and Kjeragbolten
Located in southwestern Norway, Lysefjord is a remarkable fjord. Its dramatic cliffs and beautiful views are well-known around the globe. Another of the best places to visit in Norway, this fjord is a popular destination for hikers and adventurers. It offers a fantastic way to experience Norway’s marvelous landscapes.
Kjeragbolten is an iconic rock formation in the Lysefjord region, famous for its unique shape. Kjerag is the highest peak in the majestic mountains of Lysefjord. Kjeragbolten is the famous boulder lodged between two towering mountains. It’s certainly a fantastic photo opportunity!
Svartisen Glacier
Svartisen glacier is one of the largest glaciers in Europe. Svartisen is in the Saltfjell mountain range in northern Norway, next to the beautiful Holandsfjorden. It extends to an impressive 370 square kilometers.
This mammoth glacier is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Norway. It has over 60 glacier tongues extending from Svartisen into the surrounding valleys. So, we recommend taking a guided glacier hike to enjoy the wondrous landscapes of Svartisen.
Jotunheimen National Park
Located in the eastern part of Norway, the Jotunheimen mountains are home to some of Norway’s most stunning peaks. The mountains offer incredible views. They are certainly an unrivaled opportunity to explore southern Norway’s natural beauty.
Jotunheimen is Norway’s most popular national park and contains two of Norway’s highest mountains. Why not spend a day exploring Jotunheimen’s beautiful lakes, rivers, valleys, and glaciers?
Flam Railway
The most famous of Norway’s rail routes is the scenic Flam Railway, which runs from Oslo to the town of Flam. The route is known for its breathtaking views of the Norwegian countryside. You can take the Flam Railway makes for a relaxing and beautiful day experiencing Norway’s landscape from the comfort of a train carriage.
Called the world’s most beautiful train journey, this 20 kilometer long route takes you through some unbelievable natural scenery and historical areas. An unmissable Norway sight to see, your day on the Flam Railway is one you’ll not soon forget!
Top Tips for Visiting Must-See Places in Norway
- Pack for all seasons – Norway has a temperate climate, but the weather can be famously unpredictable. Make sure to pack clothes that are suitable for all seasons, including layers to keep you warm, sunglasses, T-shirts and hiking shoes.
- Bring along water and snacks for day trips – When visiting cool places in Norway, make sure to bring a bottle of water along for the adventure. This is especially important when venturing out into natural spaces. Also in more remote areas where water may not be readily available. Pack some snacks too – you’ll be glad you did!
- Plan your accommodation and rental vehicle in advance – Norway is a popular destination for travelers. It’s then important to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment. Why not make it easier for yourself by combining your accommodation and vehicle and renting a campervan in Norway? Traveling by campervan is one of the most popular ways of seeing Norway. It's a amazing way to get around the country and experience all the beautiful sights in your own time.
- Learn a few words of Norwegian – Get into the holiday spirit by learning a few words of Norwegian before your trip. Some basic phrases will help you get around and make your trip more enjoyable and fun!
Explore the Best Places to Visit in Norway For Yourself
Enjoyed our list of the best places to visit in Norway and fancy taking your own trip to one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world? We’re not surprised!
Dive into planning your dream Norwegian vacation today! Exploring our range of affordable campervan rentals in Norway. Offering the ultimate flexibility and freedom to explore Norway’s best places and sights to your heart’s content, traveling by campervan is definitely a desirable option to consider for your Norway adventure.
Get excited for your vacation by planning your perfect itinerary and creating your own list of Norway sights to see. Then, all that’s left to do is take to the skies, roads or seas! We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful country soon!
