Norway – Destination Guide

Norway is a land of jaw-dropping natural beauty – where towering fjords meet glacial peaks and the Northern Lights dance across Arctic skies. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking remote mountain valleys, cruising dramatic coastlines, or exploring vibrant cities like Oslo and Bergen, Norway blends wild adventure with modern Scandinavian charm. With the Midnight Sun in summer and magical polar nights in winter, this is a destination for every season.

🏞️ Regions to Explore

🌆 Oslo & Eastern Norway

A cosmopolitan gateway surrounded by forested hills and the Oslofjord.

• Explore the Munch Museum and Oslo Opera House
• Stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park
• Day trip to ski resorts or lakeside cabins in Lillehammer

🗻 Western Fjords

Home to Norway’s most dramatic and iconic scenery.

• Cruise through Geirangerfjord or Nærøyfjord
• Ride the Flåm Railway for spectacular mountain views
• Wander Bergen’s colourful Bryggen wharf and fish market

🌌 Northern Norway & The Arctic

Remote and magical, this region offers unforgettable natural wonders.

• See the Northern Lights in Tromsø or Alta
• Explore the Lofoten Islands’ rugged beauty and fishing villages
• Try dog sledding, snowmobiling, or Sami cultural experiences

🎿 Central Norway & Trondheim

Historic, scenic, and full of charm.

• Visit Nidaros Cathedral and walk Trondheim’s wooden old town
• Kayak or cycle along the Trondheimsfjord
• Discover Viking history and local food traditions

🌦️ When to Go

• June to August – Long days, warmer weather, perfect for fjords and hiking
• September to October – Fewer crowds, autumn colours, Northern Lights begin
• November to March – Winter activities, Arctic adventures, best Northern Lights viewing
• April to May – Snow melting, waterfalls peak, spring blossoms in southern Norway

✈️ Getting There

Norway is well connected by air, with major international airports across the country offering direct flights from Europe, North America, and Asia. Here’s a breakdown of key airports and how to reach the nearest city:

Oslo Airport (OSL) – Gardermoen
Location: 50 km north of Oslo
Transfers:

• Flytoget Airport Express Train – 20 minutes to Oslo Central Station
• Regional trains – 23–30 minutes
• Airport buses and taxis also available

Bergen Airport (BGO) – Flesland
Location: 18 km southwest of Bergen city centre
Transfers:

• Bybanen Light Rail – 45 minutes to city centre
• Airport express buses – 20–30 minutes
• Taxis readily available

Trondheim Airport (TRD) – Værnes
Location: 32 km east of Trondheim
Transfers:

• Train to Trondheim Central Station – 35 minutes
• Airport buses – 40–50 minutes
• Taxis available at arrivals

Stavanger Airport (SVG) – Sola
Location: 14 km southwest of Stavanger
Transfers:

• Airport bus to city centre – 25–30 minutes
• Taxis or rental cars also available

Tromsø Airport (TOS) – Langnes
Location: 5 km northwest of Tromsø city centre
Transfers:

• Airport bus – 15–20 minutes
• Public buses or taxis available

These airports offer connections to most major cities in Norway, and several have direct routes to top destinations across Europe. Domestic flights are also frequent and efficient for covering large distances.

🚍 Getting Around

• Use trains for scenic routes (especially Bergen, Flåm, and Trondheim lines)
• Domestic flights for longer distances (e.g. Oslo to Tromsø)
• Ferries and express boats connect coastal towns and fjords
• Renting a car gives flexibility to explore remote areas

🍽️ Local Food & Drink

• Try reindeer, salmon, and lamb stews
• Sample brunost (brown cheese) and freshly baked lefse
• Enjoy seafood in Bergen and modern Nordic cuisine in Oslo
• Sip aquavit or local craft beer in a cosy bar

🎯 Top Experiences

• Cruise through Geirangerfjord or Sognefjord
• Hike to Trolltunga, Preikestolen, or Besseggen Ridge
• Watch the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun
• Explore Viking history and stave churches
• Kayak, cycle, ski, or dog sled through epic landscapes

🛍️ What to Buy

• Wool jumpers and Norwegian knitwear
• Hand-carved trolls, reindeer hides, and local crafts
• Traditional Sami jewellery and outdoor gear

📱 Connectivity & SIM Cards

• Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, hotels, and public transport
• EU roaming applies for most European SIM cards
• Buy a local SIM or eSIM. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

🧳 Practical Info

• Power – Type C & F plugs (Europlug) – 230V
• Internet – Fast and reliable, even in rural areas
• Water – Tap water is safe and delicious
• Vaccinations – No special vaccines required
• Travel Insurance – Highly recommended for outdoor activities
• Tipping – Not expected, but appreciated (round up or 5-10% for good service)
• Safety – Extremely safe, even for solo and female travellers

🌍 Visas & Entry

• Schengen Zone country – 90 days visa-free for many passport holders
• Check requirements at: https://www.schengenvisainfo.com

🧭 Why Visit Norway?

Whether you’re drawn by the serenity of its fjords, the thrill of Arctic adventures, or the sleek culture of its cities, Norway offers a once-in-a-lifetime mix of nature, comfort, and pure inspiration. It’s a country that rewards exploration – and one that will stay with you forever.