Most of us are familiar with Europe, but may not have explored its northern part in-depth. Norway, in particular, is often associated with Vikings, fjords, and icy landscapes. However, this stunning country has much more to offer, including the mesmerizing midnight sun and northern lights. Visitors can also explore medieval towns, charming waterfalls, traditional wooden churches, and numerous hiking trails. To help you plan an unforgettable trip to Norway, we have compiled a list of the top 14 must-visit destinations in this beautiful country. Each one includes a video tour, so you can really get an impression of the place!
Watch a video of Voringfossen Falls
Nordkapp, also known as "Cape of the North," is situated on a peninsula in the northern part of Magria Island in Northern Norway. The local council named Nordkapp is also located in the same territory. If you love being under the midnight sun, then Nordkapp is the perfect destination for you as the sun does not set from May 14th to July 29th. It is also the northernmost point in Europe connected to the international road network. Although the weather conditions in this region are harsh for most of the year, Nordkapp is mainly a summer tourist destination. The place offers breathtaking panoramic views with numerous hiking trails under the Arctic sun, where you can spot exotic animals like puffins in their natural environment.
Watch a video of Nordkapp
A particularly impressive view and a lot of ice, this is probably the best description of the glacier - an ice dome located in the Sogen og Fjordtna county in the southwestern part of Norway. The ice dome covers an area of about 480 square kilometers, is 60 kilometers long and at its peak reaches a thickness of 600 meters, all of which make it the largest glacier on the European continent. Many years ago, the locals could cross the glacier on foot, but today this is almost impossible because it is significantly smaller.
In 1991, the Jostedalsbreen National Park was established around the ice dome, on an area of 1,310 square kilometers, which attracts many tourists all year round. Hiking and skiing are allowed in the glacier area, but adventure sports enthusiasts will have to be very careful because the shrinking of the glacier may pose a danger to those seeking challenges. It is highly recommended to take a walk in the national park, which offers comfortable trails and beautiful views no less than the glacier itself.
Watch a video of Jostedalsbreen Glacier
The Viking Ship Museum in Oslo offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the impressive ships used by Vikings during their invasions centuries ago. These ships, including Gokstad and Osberg, date back to the 9th century AD and are well-preserved for visitors to see. The Osberg ship, in particular, is a highlight of the museum, having been recovered in its entirety from where it had sunk. Alongside these ships, visitors can also view fabrics, tools, household items, and accessories found in Viking graves.
Watch a video of The Viking Ship Museum
The Heddal Stave Church, situated in Heddal, Norway, stands as the largest church in the country. It comprises three central halls that soar high into the sky, and it is located northwest of Notoden, which is a 45-minute drive from Oslo. The church, which is entirely built of wood, dates back to the 13th century AD and is said to have been constructed in three days by five local farmers - according to local legend. It underwent renovations in the 19th and 20th centuries and is still used for Sunday Masses and weddings during the summer months
Watch a video of The Heddal Stave Church
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway are its fjords, with the Jairangerfjord being among the most stunning ones. Situated in southwestern Norway, southeast of the coastal town of Ålesund, this fjord spans over 15 km and offers breathtaking views of clear and deep blue waters, surrounded by green mountains that rise up to 1,000 meters. Visitors can enjoy the sight of numerous waterfalls, such as "De Sive Sasterna" and "Broodslert", along with old agricultural farms scattered all over the place. The Yirangerfjord is connected by a ferry that crosses between the towns of Yiranger and Helsylt, attracting around 600,000 tourists and over 150 cruise ships to the area each year.
Watch a video of Geirangerfjord
The Lofoten Archipelago is situated in the northern region of Norway, surrounded by several fjords. This area is characterized by high mountains, and you can find small towns inhabited by local artists and fishermen. Lofoten Islands offer an array of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, fishing, rafting, and diving. It is also one of the best places for surfing in Norway. Apart from these activities, visitors can relish the breathtaking views, witness natural phenomena like the Northern Lights and midnight sun, explore museums, participate in Viking feasts, and many more varied activities.
Watch a video of Geirangerfjord
Today, Brigan is a lively entertainment area in the city and one of its attractions, where you can also find the Brigan Museum, which displays the remains of buildings from the first century of its existence of the city, along with various findings from the Middle Ages.In addition, you can go to the Maria Church in the city, which was built in the 12th century, and visit the Hanseatic Museum, which presents life during Bergen's membership in the Hanseatic League.
Watch a video of Bryggen
romsa is situated in the Troms county of northern Norway and is ranked as the seventh most populous city with around 70 thousand inhabitants. The city has the largest area in Norway and was officially established in 1794, however, its first church was built in 1250 on the same site. Tromsa is famous for its university, brewery founded in 1877, botanical garden, and the northernmost planetarium in the world. It's regarded as one of the world's tourist hubs for observing the northern lights and experiencing skiing in the snow using sleds pulled by husky dogs.
Watch a video of Tromsø
This group of islands is located in the northernmost part of Europe, and it seamlessly blends natural beauty with a well-established human society. The archipelago is situated in the Arctic Ocean, about halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Visitors can engage in unique activities throughout the year with the help of live-in guides. Longyearbyen, the main city and capital with a population of 1,700, is often referred to as a mini-metropolis due to its high-quality services, restaurants, and cafes that are typically found in larger cities.
Nestled in the heart of Norway's majestic fjord country, the picturesque village of Flåm welcomes travelers from around the globe to experience its breathtaking beauty and rich history. Surrounded by steep, lush mountains and perched on the edge of the magnificent Aurlandsfjord, Flåm is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the hustle of urban life.
Visitors flock to Flåm to embark on the world-renowned Flåm Railway, an engineering marvel that traverses the steep mountain landscape, showcasing awe-inspiring waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Norwegian stave churches along the way. The area's abundant hiking trails, including the scenic Aurlandsdalen Valley, beckon adventure-seekers to explore its pristine wilderness.
Flåm's history is deeply rooted in the Viking Age, and a visit to the nearby Otternes Farm Village offers a glimpse into its storied past. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Flåm's enchanting allure promises a memorable and inspiring journey.
Watch a video of Ålesund
Photo sources: bvi4092, serena_tang, Karen Blaha, Daniel Gillaspia, Guillaume Baviere, Hans Permana
