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Norway
Sustainability Politics
✈️ Travel Guide

Norway

Norway's Fjords and Northern Lights

Capital
Oslo
Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Language
Norwegian
Best Time
May–Sep
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2)
Flag of Norway
👋 Overview

Welcome to Norway

Welcome to Norway, a Scandinavian country of dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and the mesmerizing northern lights. Deep glacial fjords like Geirangerfjord cut through sheer cliffs, offering some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Oslo, the capital, blends sleek modern design with easy access to forests, fjords, and islands just beyond the city. In winter, the aurora borealis dances across northern skies above Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands.

Norway's coastline stretches through countless fishing villages, where colorful wooden houses cling to rocky shorelines. Summer brings the midnight sun, illuminating mountains and fjords late into the night. Traditional Sami culture in the far north offers a fascinating connection to reindeer herding and Arctic tradition. Norway invites travelers to experience some of the most dramatic natural scenery on Earth.

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📍 Where to go

Popular Cities

01

Oslo

Oslo mixes fjord-side nature with a compact, walkable capital, its Vigeland Sculpture Park displaying more than two hundred bronze and granite figures by Gustav Vigeland spread across Frogner Park. The Viking Ship Museum houses remarkably preserved ninth-century Viking vessels excavated from Norwegian burial mounds.

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The Oslo Opera House, its sloped white marble roof designed to be walked on, offers views over the harbor and has become a symbol of the city’s modern waterfront redevelopment. Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle overlooking the harbor, traces Oslo’s history back to the thirteenth century. Ferries from the harbor reach the wooded islands of the inner Oslofjord, popular for summer picnics and swimming. Oslo’s blend of Viking history, modern architecture, and easy access to nature makes it an approachable Scandinavian capital.

02

Bergen

Bergen, gateway to Norway’s fjords, is centered on Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage wharf of colorful wooden Hanseatic buildings dating to the fourteenth century. The Fisketorget fish market offers fresh seafood and local specialties along the harbor just steps from the old town.

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The Floibanen funicular climbs to Mount Floyen for panoramic views over the city and surrounding fjords, with hiking trails continuing further into the hills. Bergen serves as the starting point for fjord cruises to Naeroyfjord and Geirangerfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage sites among Norway’s most dramatic landscapes. The city’s covered market halls and narrow wooden alleys of Bryggen give Bergen a distinct maritime character shaped by centuries as a Hanseatic trading post. Its rainy reputation is offset by some of Norway’s most spectacular natural scenery just beyond the city limits.

03

Tromso

Tromso, well above the Arctic Circle, is one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights, with dark winter skies and relatively accessible infrastructure for aurora tours. The Arctic Cathedral, with its striking triangular glass facade, has become a symbol of the city.

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The Polaria museum introduces visitors to Arctic wildlife and polar exploration history, while the Fjellheisen cable car climbs to a viewpoint over the city and surrounding fjords. In summer, Tromso experiences the Midnight Sun, with daylight lasting around the clock for weeks. Whale watching tours depart from the harbor in winter months, when orcas and humpbacks follow herring migrations into nearby fjords. Tromso’s combination of Arctic wildlife, aurora viewing, and midnight sun makes it one of the most distinctive cities in the far north.

🍴 On the menu

Local Food to Try

Discover some of Norway's most popular flavors, traditional dishes and memorable local treats during your visit.

Fårikål

Fårikål is a signature Norway specialty known for its distinctive local ingredients, seasoning and traditional preparation.

Kjøttkaker

This popular Norway dish brings together familiar regional flavors and is commonly enjoyed in homes, markets or local restaurants.

Lapskaus

A well-loved part of Norway cuisine, Lapskaus reflects the country's culinary traditions and locally available ingredients.

Rakfisk

Rakfisk is a comforting regional favorite, prepared in styles that may vary between families, cities and different parts of Norway.

Gravlaks

Visitors often seek out Gravlaks for an authentic taste of Norway's everyday cooking and food culture.

Rømmegrøt

This traditional favorite highlights the bold, savory or gently spiced flavors associated with cooking in Norway.

Lefse

Lefse is widely recognized in Norway and is often served at casual meals, celebrations or community gatherings.

Krumkake

A memorable choice for travelers, Krumkake offers a flavorful introduction to the ingredients and techniques used across Norway.

Skillingsboller

This classic food is an important part of Norway's culinary identity and is best sampled freshly prepared.

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💡 Did you know?

Little-Known Facts

1

Norway's coastline, including its fjords and islands, is one of the longest in the world, and if fully straightened out it would stretch far enough to circle the Earth more than twice. The country pioneered the modern use of hydropower and now generates nearly all of its domestic electricity from renewable sources, even as it remains one of the world's largest exporters of oil and natural gas, a paradox often noted by energy analysts.

2

Norway established a sovereign wealth fund from its oil revenues that has grown into the largest of its kind in the world, holding stakes in thousands of companies globally and worth well over a trillion dollars, funds largely set aside for future generations rather than spent on current government budgets. The country also experiences the midnight sun in its northern regions, where the sun doesn't set at all for weeks during summer, and conversely endures weeks of near-total darkness in winter above the Arctic Circle.

3

Norway is credited with popularizing modern skiing, and the sport's name derives from the Old Norse word "skíð," while the country's Holmenkollen ski jump near Oslo has hosted skiing competitions since 1892, making it one of the oldest ski venues still in operation.

🧳 Before & during your trip

Travel Tips

Tap a topic to open it.

Before You Go
  • Confirm passport validity and entry requirements.
  • Check whether a tourist visa is required.
  • Keep digital copies of important documents.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance.
Money & Payments
  • Review the local currency and exchange rate.
  • Carry some cash for small businesses and markets.
  • Check for international bank transaction fees.
  • Learn the country's customary tipping practices.
Stay Connected
  • Review your mobile carrier's international plan.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM or eSIM.
  • Download maps for offline use before traveling.
  • Avoid sensitive transactions on unsecured Wi-Fi.
Transportation
  • Research public transportation before arrival.
  • Use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare services.
  • Check which side of the road vehicles use.
  • Confirm whether an international permit is needed.
Electricity
  • Check the country's voltage and outlet type.
  • Bring the correct plug adapter for your devices.
  • Use a voltage converter when required.
  • Pack a portable charger for longer excursions.
Weather & Clothing
  • Review the seasonal weather before packing.
  • Bring layers for changing temperatures.
  • Pack rain protection when appropriate.
  • Use sunscreen even on cool or cloudy days.
Food & Water
  • Research whether tap water is safe to drink.
  • Communicate food allergies clearly.
  • Try traditional dishes from reputable vendors.
  • Observe local dining customs and meal times.
Safety
  • Secure valuables in crowded tourist areas.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
  • Review current government travel advisories.
Language & Etiquette
  • Learn a few polite words in the local language.
  • Respect dress requirements at religious sites.
  • Ask permission before photographing people.
  • Follow local traditions, laws and social customs.
Emergency Planning
  • Save the country's emergency telephone number.
  • Locate your nearest embassy or consulate.
  • Keep medication in its original packaging.
  • Store emergency contacts offline and on paper.
Smart Packing
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking and tours.
  • Keep essential medication in your carry-on.
  • Bring a reusable bottle where appropriate.
  • Leave room for locally purchased items.
Local Research
  • Check attraction hours and reservation policies.
  • Review national holidays and local closures.
  • Download important addresses before departure.
  • Leave flexibility for unexpected discoveries.

Important: Entry requirements, transportation rules, weather conditions and safety guidance can change. Verify important information with official sources before traveling.

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