Whether you plan on island hopping, exploring the history of the Vikings, or taking in the sights of the Northern Lights, there’s no shortage of fun activities to take part in when you travel to the beautiful country of Norway. Here are 15 different things you can do to make this the most memorable trip ever.
1. Buckle Up and Drive Through Trollstigen
Trollstigen is one of the most famous roads in the world, so you can’t visit Norway without conquering it. Rent a vehicle and tackle the full 66 miles worth of narrow and sharp bends through the winding mountain road. Don’t forget to bring your camera along. There are various rest stops along the way where you can take some breathtaking panoramic views of Rauma Municipality.
2. Go Fishing at Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are known as a fisherman’s paradise. There’s a reason why the World Championships in Cod Fishing takes place right here. Nothing beats taking in the sights of the local fishing communities while gazing at the picturesque views of the mountains in the distance. If deep-sea fishing really isn’t your thing, there are so many other activities you can partake in, including hiking, island-hopping by ferry, and biking through the razor-sharp peaks of the mountains.
3. Explore the Fjords
One of the most popular things to do in Norway is to go on an excursion through the fjords. Many companies offer day cruises that will sail up close to these long, deep inlets between the cascading cliffs. You’ll see everything from plunging waterfalls jetting down the verticle faces of mountains to tiny farming communities scattered throughout the mountains.
4. Take Photos at Pulpit Rock
One of the most marvelous lookout points in Norway is Pulpit Rock – a steep cliff that rises 604 meters above the Ryfylke area fjord, Lysefjorden. Hiking tours will take you directly to the edge of the cliff, but don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights!
5. Watch the Wildlife
Norway is a prime destination to take in the sights of animals in the Norweigan wild. You’ll spot everything in its natural habitat, including an arctic fox, an abundance of bird life, and even reindeer.
6. Watch a Midnight Concert at the Arctic Cathedral
Tromsø is the home to the Arctic Cathedral and its stunning architecture. Dedicated in November 1965, you’ll be drawn toward the cathedral’s mosaic tiles as you make your way up the short path. Inside, you can enjoy midnight concerts full of Norwegian folk songs and traditional hymns performed by the cathedral’s choirs and orchestras.
7. Learn About the Sami Culture
Local tour guides will take you on an excursion through the Arctic area where the indigenous Finno-Ugric people reside. You’ll be taught all about Sami history and you’ll also get the opportunity to camp out in a traditional Sami tent in the rugged terrain. In a culture that’s rich in heritage, you’ll become one with the area’s 3,000 inhabitants, feast on their cuisine, and sing traditional songs with the natives.
8. Go Dog Sledding
Pile onto a sled and be guided through the snow by Huskies for an adventure you’ll never forget! All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride as you take in the Norwegian scenery. You can also rent a snowmobile to gain better access to remote mountains and valleys in Tromsø.
9. Enjoy the Northern Lights
Travel to Northern Norway to get the best view of the Northern Lights. This natural light show happens at 27-day intervals; and the months of October, February, and March are said to be the best to see the aurora borealis. You’ll be absolutely amazed and in wonder by the green and white lights that shift and move across the sky during the Arctic winter.
10. Hike the Jotunheimen
Head off to Southern Norway to hike the tallest mountains in the entire country. The Jotunheimen is also known as the Scandinavian Mountains. It’s full of national parks and world-renowned trails, like Hurrungane and Besseggen that follows the edge of the Besseggen mountain range. There are many traditional mountain lodges, hotels, cabins, and campgrounds to make overnight trips a breeze.
11. Brush Up on Viking History
You can’t visit Norway without gaining some knowledge on the history of the Vikings. The Viking Ship Museum is by far the most popular attraction where you can view preserved and excavated ships from this historical era.
12. Take in the Architecture at Ålesund
Ålesund, a port town in Norway, is known for its Art Nouveau style of architecture.The entire town was destroyed in a fire in 1904, and it was rebuilt during 1904-1907 using architectural elements inspired by Europe. The town is full of stone structures adorned in exquisite ornaments, spires, and gargoyles. You have to see it to believe it.
13. Take a Train Ride on the Oslo-Bergen Rail Line
There’s a reason why the Oslo-Bergen rail line is considered one of the most beautiful journeys in the world. Traveling through this rail line will take you through some of the best scenery, including Norway’s lush forests and steep fjords.
14. Board a Coastal Ferry
There are so many different ways to view all the magnificent sights Norway has to offer, but taking a coastal ferry is definitely one of our favorites. Travel to remote villages across the Arctic Circle, and get up close and personal to the countries stunning fjords.
15. Go Whale Watching
There are so many areas that are considered prime whale watching destinations. But if you really want to increase your chances of seeing more than a few whales in the wild, head on over to Stø, a deep-sea fishing village in Vesterålen. From May through August, Arctic whale tours will take you out onto the water along with tour guides and knowledgeable marine biologists. But don’t just have your heart set on seeing massive whales, these excursions are also perfect for bird watching, too!
