Overview
Norway is a country of dramatic natural beauty, known for its stunning fjords, rugged mountains, and vibrant cities. From the Arctic Circle to the southern coast, Norway offers a wide range of experiences, from outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing to exploring its rich history and culture. Oslo, the capital, is home to modern art and architecture, while the scenic beauty of the Norwegian coastline, including the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun, makes it a dream destination for nature lovers.
Quick Facts
- Language: Norwegian (Bokmål and Nynorsk), English is widely spoken
- Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
- Climate: Coastal areas have a temperate maritime climate, while inland and northern regions experience cold winters and mild summers
- Best Time to Travel: June to August for warm weather and outdoor activities, September to March for the Northern Lights and winter sports
- Visa: EU nationals don’t need a visa. Other nationals may need a Schengen visa for stays longer than 90 days
- Power Plugs: Type C, F, 230V
- Time Zone: CET (Central European Time), UTC +1, CEST (Central European Summer Time) during daylight savings time
Where to Fly Into
Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) is the main international airport in Norway, with flights to major cities worldwide. Bergen (BGO), Stavanger (SVG), and Tromsø (TOS) are also popular airports for domestic flights.
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget hostels range from $40-80 per night, mid-range hotels from $100-200, and luxury accommodations start at $200+ per night.
- Food: Casual meals at restaurants typically cost $15-30, while fine dining can range from $40-80 per person.
- Transport: Public transport is efficient, with train tickets ranging from $20-50 for longer routes. Local bus and tram tickets in Oslo cost around $3-6.
Climate
Norway has a varied climate: coastal areas are milder, while the inland and northern regions experience colder winters and cooler summers. Northern Norway is famous for the Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun during summer.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): -5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F)
- Summer (June to August): 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 2°C to 15°C (36°F to 59°F)
Safety
Norway is one of the safest countries in the world with a very low crime rate. As with any destination, always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist spots.
Top 10 Things to Do in Norway
- See the Northern Lights in Tromsø: Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle, offers one of the best opportunities in the world to see the magical Northern Lights.
- Go Whale Watching in Tromsø: Tromsø is one of the best places in Norway to go whale watching, where you can see humpback whales, orcas, and more in the wild.
- Reindeer Feeding in Tromsø: Experience the traditional Sami culture by feeding reindeer in Tromsø, a fun and unique way to connect with nature.
- Take an Arctic Swim in Tromsø: Take a dip in the Arctic waters or experience a more invigorating experience with ice swimming, a great way to experience the cold, crisp waters.
- Explore the Geirangerfjord: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Geirangerfjord offers stunning views, waterfalls, and opportunities for boat trips and hikes.
- Visit the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo: Discover Norway’s Viking heritage by exploring the beautifully preserved Viking ships and artifacts.
- Take the Flåm Railway: One of the most scenic train rides in the world, this journey through the mountains offers breathtaking views of fjords and waterfalls.
- Hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): A challenging but rewarding hike leading to a cliff with panoramic views over Lysefjord.
- Explore the Lofoten Islands: A stunning archipelago known for its dramatic peaks, picturesque fishing villages, and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking.
- Visit the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø: An architectural wonder in the Arctic city of Tromsø, famous for its striking triangular design and beautiful stained-glass windows.