Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Norway for First-Time Travelers

Traveling to Norway is a wonderful experience of breathtaking sceneries, alive and colorful cities and an interesting culture. Whether you are an outdoor lover waiting to hike through the spectacular fjords, or a history lover willing to discover the Viking history of Norway, this country has it all. However, before you get to this magnificent region, it is wise to get your Norway Visa so that you have a easy time getting into the country. Getting a visa is easy and once you get one, you’re set to discover the wonders of Norway.

First-time travelers cannot plan their itineraries well because there are just too many places to visit. Starting from the busy capital city – Oslo and finishing in the serene islands of Lofoten, each place provides a breathtaking view into Norwegian geography and people. This guide aims at giving you the best 10 places to visit in Norway, so that your trip may be as fascinating as possible. Having your Norway Visa ready for you, it is time to experience the beauty of nature and history that Norway offers you.

Below are the top 10 must see attractions destinations that you should not miss to visit.

1. Oslo

Oslo is the capital city of Norway and is an excellent example of a city which combines the architecture of the most recent years with the architecture of the far past. Royal Palace, Akershus Fortress, and the modern Opera House should be the places to visit. Skylark do not visit Vigeland Sculpture Park and Museum of Munch where you can find world famous painting ‘The Scream’. There are also numerous food markets in Oslo that offer you an opportunity to taste Norwegian food.

2. Bergen

Bergen is called “The Gateway to the Fjords” and it is situated between mountains and fjords. The world heritage Bryggen with its gabled wooden houses painted in different colors is a place you should not miss. Visit Mount Fløyen by the Fløibanen funicular which provides a bird’s eye view of the city and the nearby countryside. The fjords are also easily accessible starting from Bergen.

3. The Norwegian Fjords

Of course, any tourist who has travelled to Norway cannot afford to miss the fjords. Of them, Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are the most popular and even included in the list of World Heritage. Enjoy a boat ride to marvel at the towering cliffs, awesome waterfalls and calm waters. Fjords are ideal for hiking, kayak and other water routes, and also for visiting picturesque villages.

4. Tromsø

Tromsø is positioned above the Arctic Circle and is therefore also often referred to as the ‘’Gateway to the Arctic.’’ It is among the best places to visit when it comes to the Northern Lights. Arctic Cathedral, Polar Museum, Fjellheisen cable car to see the top view of the city and mountains. Tromsø is also a good place to do winter activities such as dog sledding, snow mobile and reindeer sledding.

5. Lofoten Islands

In general, the Lofoten Islands are a dream for lovers of the great outdoors. Thanks to their steep rocky cliffs, charming fishing settlements, and nice sandy shores, they may boast of being the most beautiful district in Norway. The best ways to explore this natural reserve are through hiking the trails, visiting the villages and fishing. Lofoten Islands can be visited anytime of the year due to the midnight sun in summer and Northern lights in winter.

6. Ålesund

Ålesund has a special type of architecture known as Art Nouveau, most of which was constructed after a fire in 1904. The town is located on the water body and is enclosed with mountains; thus, the environment is scenic and good for any outdoor activities. The Ålesund town has 418 stairs to reach the top of Mount Aksla to have a birds eye view of city and the islands around it. Ålesund is also ideal for fjord tours and the Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest salt water aquariums in Northern Europe.

7. Stavanger

Stavanger is also famous for great cultural activities and the old part of the city with wooden houses. Take a tour to Stavanger Cathedral, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum and stroll through the region’s charming old town at Gamle Stavanger. Among the attractions worth visiting in Stavanger, the most popular is a trek to the Pulpit Rock and the scenery of the Lysefjord.

8. Trondheim

Trondheim is one of the oldest cities in Norway that offers its visitors an interesting experience of the city’s history and traditions. Tour the cathedral of Nidaros, Scandinavia’s largest medieval cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace Museum. Take a walk in the painted wooden houses of Bakklandet, and cross the Old Town Bridge. Trondheim is also famous for its active food culture, and it is also a student city.

9. Svalbard

Svalbard is an archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean providing quite an exciting experience. Located far north of the mainland, Svalbard features polar ice and mountains and is inhabited by polar bears, reindeer and Arctic foxes. Go to the glaciers, ice caves and the fjords. They can also take a guided tour that introduces tourists to the history of mining and the Arctic. Svalbard is also a perfect place for meeting midnight sun and polar night.

10. The Atlantic Road

The Atlantic Road is a tourist attraction where car lovers can drive on a road that links a number of islands off the coast of Norway by means of bridges and causeways. The road provides beautiful scenery, the ocean, rocky shores, and beautiful villages. Kvernes Stave Church, Bremsnes Cave, Ergan Coastal Fort. The Atlantic Road is also an excellent place for fishing, diving and hiking.

Conclusion

It could be noted that Norway is a country with marvelous nature and a deep historical background. From colourful metropolises to stunning outdoors and other interesting activities such as the Arctic, there is something for any tourist. Do not miss out these top 10 must visit places in your first trip to Norway so that you can fully maximize your trip.