Norway
Norway is nature on a scale that makes other countries’ scenery feel modest. The fjords alone would be enough to justify the trip: massive inlets of deep blue water cutting between sheer cliff faces that rise thousands of feet, often topped with waterfalls plunging straight into the sea. But Norway also has the Northern Lights dancing across Arctic skies, the midnight sun that refuses to set in summer, the Lofoten Islands with their red fishing cabins and dramatic peaks, and some of the most spectacular coastal and mountain drives in the world.
The country stretches from the temperate south to well above the Arctic Circle, and the variety between those latitudes is enormous. Bergen in the southwest is a colorful harbor city surrounded by seven mountains. Oslo is a modern, design forward capital with world class museums. Tromso in the Arctic north is the gateway to Northern Lights viewing and one of the most charming small cities in Scandinavia.
Where to Go
Bergen is the gateway to the fjords and one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. The Bryggen wharf, a row of colorful wooden buildings dating to the Hanseatic League, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Floibanen funicular takes you to the top of Mount Floyen for panoramic views. Day trips to Sognefjord and the Flam Railway are among the most popular excursions in the country.
The Flam Railway is one of the steepest standard gauge rail lines in the world, descending from mountain plateaus to the fjord village of Flam past waterfalls, valleys, and mountain farms. The 20 kilometer journey is widely considered one of the most scenic train rides on Earth.
The Lofoten Islands, above the Arctic Circle, are a chain of dramatic peaks rising from the Norwegian Sea, connected by bridges and surrounded by fishing villages. The scenery is jaw dropping year round, with midnight sun in summer and Northern Lights in winter. Hiking, sea kayaking, and visiting traditional fishing villages are the main activities.
Tromso is the Northern Lights capital of Norway. Guided Northern Lights tours depart nightly during the season, heading into the countryside in search of clear skies. The Arctic Cathedral and the Polaria aquarium are daytime highlights, and the city has a surprisingly vibrant bar and restaurant scene.
Where to Stay
The Frogner House Apartments in Oslo offer stylish self catering in a residential neighborhood. Hotel Nerlandsoy on the Norwegian coast is a remote design hotel on a tiny island. In Lofoten, Hattvika Lodge offers renovated fishing cabins with fjord views and modern comforts. In Tromso, the Scandic Ishavshotel sits on the waterfront with views of the Arctic Cathedral.
Let Us Plan Your Norway Trip
Norway is a destination that rewards advance planning, especially for fjord cruises, scenic train reservations, and Northern Lights timing. The country is spread out and getting between regions takes time, so an efficient itinerary matters. We will help you choose the right season, the right route, and the right experiences to match your interests.
