Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Norway 2025

From the remotest frozen shores and towering mountain peaks, through Scandinavian architecture and esoteric music festivals, nautical history to the high point of the Northern Lights – planning a Norway trip is a pretty monumental task. Norwegians adore nature, so you can always find your nearest bit of nature. If only you had some time for a city break, still there are quite a few things to try on. We summed up 25 best places in Norway for your inspiration.

Norway is one of the Scandinavian countries famous for its breathtaking fjords, Northern Lights, and Viking history. This place provides an amazing blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Norway is a destination that no traveller would like to miss out on.

Norway has cemented its way into the bucket list of each enthusiastic traveller around the globe. With beautiful mountains, glorious fjords, and plentiful churches and lighthouses, the options for places to visit in Norway will surely prove to be a good trip for all: it’s perfect for friends, family, and couples. Above everything else, it is the dream of many to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking Northern Lights once in their lifetime.

Your Top Destination To Visit In Norway: “Powered by Nature”

1. Svalbard

Because of its twenty-four-hour darkness in winter, and being the northernmost inhabited place on earth, Svalbard is known for being the best place to witness the the northern lights. 

Things to do: boat, kayak, snowmobile, northern lights or dog sledging

2. Tromsø 

The area around Tromsø is wild and raw, but the city center is urban and modern. Popular attractions within the city limits include Polaria, the world’s northernmost aquarium, The Polar Museum, the Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden and the famous Arctic Cathedral.

Things to do: Arctic Cathedral, Telegrafbukta, Storsteinen, Perspective Museum, Northern Norwegian Art Museum, Troll Museum

3. Lofoten

Lofoten is an archipelago in Norway. The landscape features dramatic scenery with peaks, such as the Svolværgeita pinnacle, jutting into the sky. Himmeltindan Mountain sits on Vestvågøya Island. Just nearby is the Lofotr Viking Museum with a reconstructed Viking longhouse. Cycle routes cover the islands, including all those fishing villages, such as Henningsvær, with its colourful buildings lining the waterways.

Things to do: hiking, skiing, ski touring, climbing, fishing, diving, snorkelling, kayaking, surfing and photo safaris.

4. Bergen + Westfjords 

Bergen is Norway’s second biggest city and is an old coastal pearl in Fjord Norway. Surrounded by seven mountains and famous fjords such as Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord, it is the ideal base for discovering Norway’s stunning fjord landscapes.

Things to do: Mount Floyen and the Funicular, Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, Day Cruises, Nature and Wildlife Tours.

5. Geirangerfjord

Geiranger Fjord is one of the fjords in Sunnmøre of Møre og Romsdal county, Norway. It falls completely within Stranda Municipality. It’s a 15-kilometer branch of Sunnylvsfjorden which is a side arm of the Storfjorden.

Things to do: Seven Sisters Waterfall, Friaren, Brudesløret (Bridal Veil)

6. Pulpit Rock

The eight-kilometre hike begins at the Preikestolen Fjellstue mountain lodge. Plan on about four hours total for this moderately challenging roundtrip. Combine a guided tour with a sightseeing boat cruise on the fjord to see the cliff; some tours offer combined hikes and cruises. Daily guided tours are available from April to October, weather permitting. If you feel a bit queasy about spoiling Preikestolen with too many tourists, start your hike at night. You’ll experience a pretty magical sight as the sun rises over the rocks. Or simply hike in the afternoon. Your closest options for sleeping are Preikestolen Fjellstue and Lilland Hotell. For an even longer hike and great views of Preikestolen, try a night spent in Stavanger, where you can board a boat for a trip through the Lysefjord.

Things to do: Guided hike to Pulpit Rock Preikestolen, Ports of Call Tours, The Pulpit Rock Air, Port Transfers, Lysefjord RIB Safari from Stavanger.

7. The Atlantic Road

The Atlantic Road connects Averøy with the mainland across a chain of small islands and islets covered by eight bridges in total of 8274 meters. The road was opened in 1989 and is toll-free. The Atlantic Road has National Tourist Route status and the whole section between Bud and Kristiansund is one single, winding experience along the coast, culture, and history.

Things to do: Thrilling Atlantic Road trip with hiking, beach and driving

8. Bear Island

Bear Island is the southernmost of the islands forming the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago. The island lies at the boundary between the Norwegian and Barents seas, about equidistant from Spitsbergen and the North Cape. Bear Island was discovered by Dutch explorers Willem Barentsz and Jacob van Heemskerck on 10 June 1596.

Things to do: swimming, sunbathing on the beach, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, exploring the natural landscape, primitive camping, birdwatching, and wildlife observation

9. Træna

The municipality of Norway consisting of around 500 islands, islets, and skerries lies in the Nordland county. It belongs to the traditional region of Helgeland. Træna is proof that one does not need to go to the tropics to find heaven. It offers mountains and sea, plenty of fish, as well as many different birds and tranquillity along with drama, sunny weather, and storms-often during the same day. The Arctic Circle cuts through the islands, which means that from late May to mid-July you can enjoy the midnight sun – and savour Træna’s natural attractions around the clock.

Things to do: sauna and swim in the Arctic Sea, or visit the caves, trails, and beaches

10. Nærøyfjord

Nærøyfjord is the wildest and most beautiful branch of the Sognefjord. Small farms clinging to the lien. The fjord is 17 km long and at its narrowest point is 250 meters wide. Boat trip through Nærøyfjord- one of Europe’s most spectacular fjord tours. There’s a year-round boat route for sightseeing- between Gudvangen-Aurland and Flåm.

Things to do:  Fjord cruises, Flåm Railway, kayak tours, Viking village, biking, hiking, zipline and many more adventures

11. Kristiansand and Southern Norway

Southern Norway is the summer paradise of the Norwegians, who, apart from picturesque beaches and thousands of islands, can bask in more sun hours every year than most of their countrymen. Breathe a bit of the spirit in narrow streets between white traditional wooden houses like in charming coastal towns Risør, Arendal, Grimstad, Mandal, and Flekkefjord, or get to know the cradle of Norwegian folk traditions at the wonderful Setesdal valley.  The largest city in Southern Norway is Kristiansand, which allows you to stroll through its old town, Posebyen, indulge in fresh seafood, spend lazy days on the city beach, and enjoy several fun festivals. Dyreparken Zoo and Amusement Park is sure to be a winner with the little ones.

Things to do: Dyreparken, Kristiansand Kanonmuseum, Hiking Trails, History Museums, visit the old fish quay Fiskebrygga

12. The mountains and valleys of Eastern Norway

Eastern Norway’s dense forests, deep valleys, and massive mountain plateaus offer just the best nature adventures. This is where you will find some of Norway’s biggest ski resorts, for example, Geilo, Trysil, and Hemsedal, which give year-round fun since they turn into world-class cycling and outdoor activity destinations once the snow melts. This includes the long valleys of Valdres, Hallingdal, and the Gudbrandsdalen Valley, which feature all the tasteful theme parks, quaint farms, and excellent hiking trails for an unforgettable family trip. On a similar note, the Telemark region is where you can cruise up the Telemark canal to view the most magnificent scenery in Eastern Norway from the top of Gaustatoppen mountain.

Things to do: Mountain biking in Hallingdal, Hafjell or Trysil – or go airborne on one of the many zip lines or wind tunnels across the region

13. Tonsberg

A Viking’s old town, Tonsberg, is one of the most visited summer tourist places in Norway, renowned for its breathtaking coastline, lush forests, sandy beaches, museums, and cultural events.

From the world-known Oseberg ship, Mount Slottsfjell to Slottsfjell Museum and Slottsfjell Tower and onwards to Haugar Art Museum each site has an attraction, it is just something that gives reflections of a glorious past and wonderful culture. A winter destination skis; for long sandy or rocky coast and watersport activities and beach attractions, it attracts the hearts of nature enthusiasts.

Things to do: Castle Rock Tower, Brygga i Tønsberg, Playgrounds, Monuments & Statues

14. Longyearbyen

Longyearbyen is a small Arctic town considered one of the best places to visit in Norway, where arctic weather and adventures create great excitement. This is essentially the gateway to the most thrilling nature-based experiences and arctic wilderness as well as snow adventures in Svalbard.

The winter period represents Polar Nights with great vistas of dancing Northern Lights and exciting snow activities such as concerts, festivals, sports events, and a torch-lit Christmas parade. The polar summer is largely dominated by the Midnight Sun that stays high up in the sky 24/7 and is thus ideal for taking snowmobile tours, dog sledging, hiking, skiing, and taking boat tours.

Things to do: You will find a broad range of attractions, cultural events, festivals and activities all year round.

15. Atlanterhavsveien

Take an experience of exciting winter storms, or long stretches of sunshine with the summer while at Atlanterhavsveien-an engineering marvel. The experience of car rides, cycles, or buses is not something beyond imagination and lets you appreciate the beauty around you.

Said to be the most beautiful car ride in the world, Atlanterhavsveien consists of seven superb bridges connecting many islets and provides angling, diving, hiking, and cycling for experiences to observe breathtaking natural landscapes. Several viewpoint stations, also showing the avant-garde architecture, are en route and strategically located to boost this scenic drive.

Things to do: Scenic Drive, Bridge viewpoints, Island exploration, and Fishing

16. Bodo

Known as the “Little Brother of Tromsø”, Bodo is amongst the most vibrant and lively tourist places in Norway, replete with diverse culture, delectable cuisine, unspoiled views, fascinating street art, and awe-inspiring sights.

Hiking to Keiservarden Hill is family fun, a stroll on Moloen Pier is truly romantic, and the Norwegian Aviation Museum is an attraction for all ages. From trekking, and witnessing whirlpools at the Saltstraumen to capturing the Northern Lights or the polar sun, the city has so much to offer but still is a hidden gem.

Things to do: Exploring the natural beauty, visiting museums, and enjoying the local food and drink.

17. Alesund

Located on the west coast of Norway, Alesund is a tiny hamlet by the waterside and one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Norway. Its incredibly beautiful land and seascapes are not only worth witnessing but adventures like hiking and kayaking can keep you busy and amused for a long.

Its fairytale art nouveau architecture draws in history lovers and holds a historical value too. Stroll along the waterfront and appreciate this incomparable architecture that makes the town stand apart from all other Norwegian cities. The story behind this architecture is told by Jugendstilsenteret Museum while restaurants and cafes serve the local cuisines at their best.

Things to do:  Enjoy an architectural walk · Art nouveau centre · Climb the steps to Aksla · Atlantic aquarium

18. Briksdalsbreen Glacier

An arm of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, this Briksdalsbreen Glacier is fascinatingly scenic as well as among the most sightseeing places within Norway. Glaciers feature an attractive appearance between thundering waterfalls as well as great peaks and the glacier falls inside the Jostedalsbreen National Park.

The views of the glacier dropping from a height of 1200 meters into the beautiful Briksdalen Valley are spectacular. Watch the dramatic elegance or venture into the wild on foot or on one of the peculiar Troll Cars. The Briksdals glacier is also one of the hiking destinations that attracts hikers, trekkers, and nature lovers from around the globe.

Things to do: Learn about Norway’s Briksdalsbreen Glacier in Olden, Nordfjord, including spectacular glacier hikes you can enjoy

19. Isterdalen

Isterdalen is one of the picturesque Norwegian valleys famous for its dynamic nature and wonderful scenes of beauty that attract visitors everywhere. Located within the Møre og Romsdal county, Isterdalen captures the attention of every lover of the wondrous beauty found in nature. The valley, in particular hosts the Trollstigen or the Troll’s Path, which features a mountain winding road with strong inclines featuring eleven hairpin bends.

Things to do: From surfing, hiking, skiing, fishing, and ocean rafting to scuba diving. Other than exciting adventures, the region is famous for its fishing villages.

20. Geiranger

A jewel in the crown of Norway, Geiranger offers gorgeous landscapes of snow-covered peaks, abandoned verdant farms, thunderous waterfalls, and a majestic azure fjord. The Geirangerfjord is its major attraction for its scenic beauty, fresh environment, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Along the side of the fjord are the lavish farms, (Skageflå, Knivsflå, and Blomberg), waterfalls like Friaren & De Syv Søstre. Altogether they boost up the loveliness manifold times of that place. But for coming this close with such majestic wonder or sight in Norway either, visit through the cruisefjords, drive Ørnesvingen, Flydalsjuvet or even to Dalsnibba.

Things to do: RIB tours, ski touring, hiking, snowshoeing, climbing park and rafting.

When is The Best Time To Go And Visit Norway?

As you start planning a trip to the Scandinavian getaway, you may find it important to know when is the best time to go visit Norway. The truth is this Nordic nation is beautiful enough of a travel destination for any time of year; you could hardly go wrong!

Each season comes with its perks. For fjord cruises and road trips, the summer is excellent. The northern lights in norway can best be seen in winter, during which one may participate in all forms of snow-related activities.

Learn about the best time to visit Norway by reading this guide to the 4 seasons, followed by our travel experts’ answers to frequently asked questions. Know what to expect at each time of year, what activities are best, and when and where to go in Norway for a memorable trip.

1. Summer Season

Norway will be at its best between June and August – the best time to enjoy the country’s legend of the midnight sun. It will be a nice time during that period as long days and fine weather abound; greenery fills the landscape on all sides.

In the north, temperatures in places such as Tromsø are kept low, about 11°C (52°F), whereas southern parts are going up to 20s°C (68°F +). This is an ideal summer season to take pleasure in sightseeing. Warm weather, long days, and excellent road conditions make it a perfect time for taking a road trip! You can depart from the capital, Oslo, and drive west toward the fjords region.

2. Autumn Season

Between September and November, Norway changes. The greens of summer have been substituted by the bright yellows, oranges, and reds of autumn. At this time of the year, the landscape is between colorful foliage and the frost of the first snow.

This is the best time of the year if you are a hiker, and especially if you want a more quiet atmosphere. October and November see a decrease in visiting travelers, so you will have more of the sights to yourself.

How’s the weather?

This is the time of the year when the weather in Norway starts to change as the winter approaches. In Oslo, average temperatures go down to about 6°C (48°F) in October, while in the north, the temperature is only around 2°C (35°F). Cities are must-see places during this season since you have so many places to visit, like museums and attractions. You can travel between Oslo and Bergen and take on the iconic Norway in a Nutshell journey.

3. Winter Season

Norway’s winter is magical. Yes, this may be quite cold and dark during these months, but such landscapes are beyond the beauty of the compensation factor. The thick snow drapes over the whole country, making the fjords seem like ice kingdoms.

The best time to travel to Norway to view a beautiful white wonderland is winters. Some roads are shut over the winter months, although cruises and train journeys can be taken year-round. It’s just the perfect travelling time in such snow-topped mountains while at the same time keeping a watch out for darkening skies. Hopefully, you’ll be lucky and catch a view of colourful dancing lights in the sky as well!

How is the weather?

Temperatures are on average -3 or -4°C (25°F) in both the capital and the north. However, by the coast, which has a more temperate climate, it remains at 2°C (35°F). Not going north would be a pity: The Arctic Circle offers a true winter feel within.

4. Spring Season

March, April, and May are also good times to visit Norway. Spring showers give birth to beautiful fresh rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. Snow-entombed landscapes give way to waves of fresh greenery.

What’s the weather?

From April to May the weather rises between 0 and 11°C (32-52°F) in Oslo, and up to, on average, 4°C (39°F). As this is a transitional season, you never know as it may inch a bit higher or lower.

Best places to visit Norway in Spring Season

You will love the fjords in spring! The western fjords remains beautiful all year round, but in spring, the landscape changes from wintry to lush green. We recommend taking a coastal cruise from Trondheim down to Bergen, admiring the coast along the way. At this time of year, many summery activities reopen their doors so you can take advantage of these before the summer boom.

Where Can You See The Northern Lights in Norway?

The Northern Lights can be viewed in Norway in places like Tromsø, Svalbard, Alta, Kirkenes, Bodø, Senja, and Lofoten. These places are within the Arctic Circle and provide great views of the aurora borealis.

Northern lights activity is peaking. The aurora borealis activity is expected to reach its highest levels in 11 years from now until 2026.

Tromsø is one of the best destinations to witness the Northern Lights in the world. If you stay in Tromsø for at least five days in winter, then you might get a fair opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. You will enjoy some magnificent views of the city from Fjellheisen Mountain on the roof of Tromso. Under the right conditions, this is the perfect place to view the Northern Lights in action.

Kirkenes Here, with 200 nights of Aurora Borealis and perfect conditions, visitors do get ample chance to witness the lights.

Narvik The region Narvik has a perfect location under the oval of the Northern Lights. On board Northern Lights Express, you can follow the mystical light show at the northernmost rail line on Earth high up in the mountains away from the light pollution of cities.

Lofoten It is possible to see Northern Lights, because of its location and sight lines at Lofoten. Mountains abound in Lofoten, which can sometimes create gaps in the cloud cover, sometimes making it possible to see them on a cloud day.

Svalbard is Located between mainland Norway and the North Pole, this archipelago has exceptional Aurora conditions.

Bodø is within a short distance from Rønvikfjellit Mountain, a sublime place to find an open view of the sky. 

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