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Planning a trip to Norway but have no idea where to start? Then this is the blog for you! Places To Visit Norway tops the bucket lists of travelers from around the world. Whether it’s the magnificent Norwegian fjords, the historic cities, or the chance to see the Northern Lights Norway, Norway has something for everyone. But in a country with so much natural beauty to explore, where do you even begin?
Best Places To Visit Norway
I’ve done my best to bring you the top 8 places to visit Norway, ordered from north to south. This is not an exhaustive list, and there are, of course, many places worth visiting that I’ve not included this time. However, I hope this will give you some great ideas when planning your own Norway travel itinerary!
Tromsø
So, with that in mind, let’s start by heading to Tromsø. There’s plenty to see in Tromsø, the biggest city in Northern Norway, including the iconic Arctic Cathedral, the busy waterfront in the city center, and the modern architecture of the library. However, the number one must-do in this Arctic city has to be the Fjellheisen cable car, which takes people up to the mountain that overlooks the town from more than 400 meters above sea level.
You get a stunning view of the town, summer or winter. In the summer, the area is perfect for hiking, while in the winter, you’ll probably prefer to take advantage of the café and the view. The more energetic among you may prefer to hike up to Store Steinn, which has been made easier since the construction of the Sherpa stone staircase. Just be aware that there are almost 1,300 steps.
Lofoten Islands
Regular life in Norway followers will know I consider the Lofoten Islands to be one of the most visited Norway destinations on Earth, let alone in Norway. The towering mountains, clusters of wooden huts, fantastic hiking trails, and amazing beaches are just some of the reasons to visit this part of Northern Norway. The fishing village of Henningsvær, spread over several islands at the foot of a mountain wall, is one of the best spots.
The handful of arts and crafts businesses, including a couple of art galleries, provide interesting reasons to visit Henningsvær besides the landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy everything from rock climbing to kayaking, but for me, the best way to enjoy Henningsvær and anywhere in Lofoten is simply to walk around and take it all in.
Trondheim & Nidaros Cathedral
Trondheim’s Nidaros Cathedral: There’s lots to see in the historic student city of Trondheim, but one attraction stands above all others. Nidaros Cathedral draws people from all over the world to Trondheim.
This iconic structure holds a unique place in the history of Norway, its roots tracing back to a humble wooden chapel built over the tomb of St. Olav, the Viking king instrumental in introducing Christianity to Norway. Before going inside, take a few minutes to admire the remarkable west front. This façade is packed with intricate carvings of saints and other historical figures and was completely restored during the 20th century.
Inside sheer size of the cathedral will surely surprise you, especially its height. The main altar is set within an octagonal shrine, which you should walk around to appreciate the remarkable stonework. It’s also worth taking the time to visit the crypt, where you’ll find a collection of marble gravestones. Adjacent to the cathedral, the archbishop’s palace complex houses an interesting museum about the site’s long history and the crown regalia of Norway.
Røros
Røros, the former copper mining town, is known for its remarkably well-kept wooden buildings and industrial heritage. Just a few hours from Trondheim by train, Røros is a great day trip and is perfect for walking around and exploring. Visiting the former smelter, now a museum, is a must to understand the history of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site.
However, Røros offers much more than just a history lesson; the town is thriving today, thanks partly to tourism but also to its micro-industries, from Røros Tweed and the local dairy to the locally made pottery with its distinctive designs.
Ålesund
Olison offers fairy tale architecture in a simply stunning natural setting. Walking around the compact downtown area is the best way to appreciate the city, but if you have time, it’s worth climbing the steps to Mount Axa for this famous view. The more than 400 steps do make for a steep climb, but the result is more than worth the effort. You can always drive up, though, if you prefer.
To understand why Olison looks the way it does, visit the fascinating Yugan Still Center and the Art No Museum. The city’s aquarium is also worth a visit, especially if you have young children. But most of all, I recommend just hanging out on the waterfront in Olison and watching the world go by.
Trollstigen & Trollveggen
Trollstigen road trip Norway, the Serpentine Road, is one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions and has to be seen to be believed. The viewpoints at the top provide a memorable view of the road in context with the mountains and valley.
If the road isn’t too busy, stop at the Old Stone Bridge that crosses the Stigfossen waterfall; it’s the perfect photo opportunity, especially early in the season when the snowmelt feeds the waterfall. If it’s a rainy day, the Visitor Center offers some respite and the opportunity to buy some troll-themed souvenirs. Nearby, the imposing mountain face, Trollveggen (the Troll Wall), is also worth a stop on your road trip.
Vigeland Park, Oslo
Places to visit in Norway like Vigeland Park in Oslo are some of the country’s most famous attractions. Vigeland Park is home to over 200 fascinating sculptures showcasing the emotional and evocative work of Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Each sculpture in the park tells a story in stone and metal, symbolizing various stages of life, human relationships, and emotions, from love and joy to reflection and aggression.
At the core of the park is the impressive monolith, composed of 121 intertwined human figures reaching out for the sky. It is said to represent humanity’s desire to connect with the divine. Of course, there is so much more to see in the capital, including the Holmenkollen ski jump and the waterfront Opera House, among many other attractions. However, Vigeland Park should be your one must-do.
Stave Churches
Norwegian stave churches nothing documents the transition from the Viking Age to Christianity better than the stave churches. These outstanding constructions are full of remarkable carvings in which pagan iconography sits alongside Christian motifs. This particular example at Fantoft, just outside Bergen, is one of the easiest to access, but it was rebuilt after an arson attack. There are 28 original stave churches around the country, all of which are well worth seeing.
Conclusion
That was my own top 8 places to visit Norway. It wasn’t intended to be definitive, and I’m sure you will have plenty of ideas for your own Norway itinerary. Why not let me know what would make your list in the comments? Thanks for Reading!
