Norway’s Top Attractions: 18 Must-Visit Places for Every Type of Traveller

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Norway’s top attractions, ensuring seamless communication while discovering 18 must-visit places that offer something for every type of traveler, from breathtaking fjords to vibrant cities and cultural landmarks.

Tucked away in Northern Europe, Norway beckons with dramatic natural landscapes, historic cities, and unique cultural experiences. This Scandinavian nation of just 5.4 million welcomed over 5.88 million international overnight visitors in 2022, drawn to its Norway tourist attractions like majestic fjords, the northern lights, and Viking heritage sites. If you’re wondering about the best places to visit in Norway, here’s an insider’s guide to 18 destinations that showcase the country’s diverse appeal.

1. Oslo: A Vibrant Capital City

As Norway’s capital and most populous city, Oslo is a natural starting point to explore the country’s places to visit. Spend a couple of days discovering these top attractions:

• Vigeland Sculpture Park: The world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist, with over 200 bronze and granite sculptures by Gustav Vigeland.

• Viking Ship Museum: See three well-preserved Viking ships dating back to the 9th century, along with Viking-era artefacts.

• Oslo Opera House: Admire the striking modern architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the city and fjord from the building’s angled roof.

• Akershus Fortress: Explore this medieval castle and fortress, which offers museums, guided tours, and great vantage points of the harbour.

Insider Tip: Many Oslo museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Purchase an Oslo Pass for free entry to 30+ attractions and free public transport.

2. Bergen: Gateway to the Fjords

Surrounded by seven mountains and fjords, Bergen is a picturesque city that’s considered a gateway to Norway’s fjords. Visit Norway and experience the best of Bergen:

• Bryggen: Walk along the old Hanseatic wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the colourful wooden buildings lining the waterfront. Pop into artisan shops, cafes, and museums.

• Mount Fløyen: Take the funicular railway up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views over Bergen. Enjoy hiking trails, playgrounds, and a restaurant at the top.

• Fish Market: Sample fresh seafood, fruit, and local delicacies at this lively outdoor market that’s been a meeting place since the 1200s.

How to Get There: Bergen is a 7-hour train ride or a short flight from Oslo. Alternatively, travel the scenic route from Flåm to Bergen on the Flåm Railway.

3. Geirangerfjord: Waterfalls and Fjord Cruises

Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its steep-sided fjords, gushing waterfalls, and lush vegetation. It’s one of the most iconic Norway places to visit.

• Fjord Cruise: Take a sightseeing boat tour to admire the fjord’s beauty up close, sailing past the famous Seven Sisters and Suitor waterfalls.

• Ørnesvingen Viewpoint: Drive or hike up to this viewpoint for an incredible vista over Geirangerfjord, the fjord landscape, and the hairpin bends of Eagle Road.

• Kayaking and Hiking: Get active and explore the fjord by kayak or on foot. Numerous hiking trails offer views of abandoned fjord farms and the fjord-mountain landscape.

When to Visit: Peak season is from June to August. Visit in May or September for mild weather and fewer crowds.

4. Lofoten Islands: Stunning Scenery Above the Arctic Circle

Located above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are known for their dramatic peaks, sandy beaches, colourful fishing villages, and the northern lights. Some of the best places to visit in Norway are found here:

• Reine: Often cited as Norway’s most beautiful village, Reine is surrounded by soaring peaks and the Reinefjorden. Stay in a traditional red fisherman’s cottage called a rorbuer.

• Henningsvær: This pretty fishing village has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, glassblowers, and potters’ workshops lining the waterfront.

• Lofotr Viking Museum: Experience life-sized reconstructions of Viking longhouses and learn about the Vikings who lived here over 1000 years ago through exhibits and live performances.

Getting Around: The E10 scenic drive connects the Lofoten islands. You can also travel by bus or rent a car.

5. Tromsø: Experience the Northern Lights

Tromsø, known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’, is one of the best places to visit in Norway to see the northern lights in winter and experience the midnight sun in summer.

• Northern Lights Tours: Join a guided tour to maximise your chances of seeing the aurora borealis. Options include bus, boat, and snowmobile tours.

• Arctic Cathedral: Marvel at this striking modern church, known for its distinctive ice-block shape and dazzling stained-glass windows.

• Fjellheisen Cable Car: Ride up Storsteinen mountain on this cable car for sweeping views over Tromsø and the surrounding islands, mountains, and fjords.

Fun Fact: Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost brewery, Mack Bryggeri, which has been crafting beer since 1877.

More Norway Places to Visit

Here are more incredible Norway tourist attractions to add to your itinerary:

6. Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen): Hike up to this cliff that towers 604 meters over Lysefjord.

7. Trolltunga: Trek to this scenic rock formation that juts out 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

8. Atlantic Ocean Road: Drive this 8.3-kilometre road that winds across islands and islets, with the open sea on one side and mountain scenery on the other.

9. Flåm Railway: Journey on one of the world’s most beautiful train rides, with stunning fjord and mountain scenery.

10. Sognefjord: Cruise along Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, stretching 205 kilometres inland from the ocean.

11. Svalbard: Spot polar bears and experience the midnight sun in this Arctic archipelago.

12. Kjeragbolten: Climb up to this iconic boulder wedged in a mountain crevice, 984 metres above Lysefjord.

13. Nigardsbreen Glacier: Take a guided tour on the blue ice of this glacial arm, an offshoot of Jostedalsbreen, Europe’s largest glacier.

14. Loen Skylift: Ride this new cable car up to Mount Hoven for incredible views of the fjord landscape.

15. Ålesund: Discover Art Nouveau architecture in this town that was rebuilt after a fire in 1904.

16. Trondheim: Visit the medieval Nidaros Cathedral and the colourful wharves of Bakklandet in Norway’s third-largest city.

17. The Telemark Canal: Cruise along this 105-kilometre long feat of engineering, built in the 1890s to connect the coast with the interior.

18. Jotunheimen National Park: Hike and climb in this mountain area known as ‘Home of the Giants’, including Northern Europe’s two highest peaks.

Stay Connected on Your Norway Trip with Airtel

To make the most of your visit to these incredible Norway places, reliable connectivity is key. You can easily stay connected with an international roaming pack from Airtel. Airtel’s Postpaid roaming plans offer generous data allowances and seamless coverage across Norway. With an active roaming pack, you can navigate with Google Maps, share your adventures on social media, and make hassle-free online reservations—all without worrying about connectivity or hefty roaming fees. Enjoy peace of mind and focus on soaking in every moment of your Norway trip!

From modern cities to rustic fishing villages, otherworldly fjords to the Arctic reaches, Norway offers an astonishing array of experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether you visit just a few or all of these incredible places to visit in Norway, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for this beautiful country. Start planning your Norway adventure today!