Norway
Norway, the name alone conjures up images of stunning fjord coastlines, majestic mountains, thundering waterfalls, glistening glaciers, abundant wildlife, midnight sun and the colourful Northern Lights, making it one of Europe’s most diverse and adventure-driven destinations. Whether you are looking for an epic adventure during summer or winter, or if you simply want to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery, Norway offers endless of possibilities for everyone.
Discover Oslo, the thriving capital city located in Eastern Norway. Known as a global city, Oslo is packed with numerous cultural attractions including world-class museums, galleries and annual festivals. Explore its famous landmarks such as the Viking Museum, features three Viking ships and other items from the Viking Age; the Munch Museum features the famous The Scream and other works of Edvard Munch; Vigeland Museum houses the works of Norway’s popular sculptor, Gustav Vigeland.
Head to north if you want to experience the incredible phenomena of midnight sun and Northern Lights. Admire the rugged beauty of North Cape – hike the natural arch of Kirkeporten, go bird watching at Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve, explore Skarsvåg, the world’s nethermost fishing village, or catch the incredible Northern Lights. In Alta, learn Norway’s Sami culture, explore the historic carvings in Hjemmeluft or stay in an ice hotel.
The southern region is probably Norway’s best-kept secret, from its mild climate, charming villages, wooden houses dotted along the coastline to the white beaches of Lista. Don’t miss, Under, the world’s largest underwater restaurant, offering local delicacies.
A trip to Norway is not complete without a visit to its renowned fjords. Explore the awe-inspiring Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Norway’s most visited natural attractions. Surrounded by steep, snow-capped mountains, this fjord is known for its fabled waterfalls including the Seven Sisters, Suitor and Bridal Veil, and deserted fjord farms.
Also located in Western Norway is Sogneford, dubbed as King of the Fjords, it is the largest and deepest fjord. Its famous and most beautiful branch, Nærøyfjord, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, replete with majestic mountains, waterfalls and farms perched on the mountainside.
Gear up for an unforgettable adventure in Svalbard Islands. Located between Norway and the North Pole, it is home to thousands of polar bears and other wildlife including the Arctic fox, Svalbard reindeer, whales, dolphins and walruses.
Helpful Information
Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe making it a year-round holiday destination. The best time to visit Norway depends on the activity you want to experience.
Spring – March to May
- Spring arrives early in Southern Norway.
- In Northern Norway, spring starts usually late May or early June.
- 17 May is Norway’s Constitution Day.
Summer – June to August
- Summer temperature is usually between 25 to 30C
- Experience the midnight sun in Northern Norway (The North Cape, Bodø, Storsteinen in Tromsø or in Alta).
- Enjoy activities such as kayaking, hiking, cycling, fishing and camping.
- Celebrate Midsummer Eve with the locals on 23 June.
Autumn – September to November
- You might experience a wide range of temperature and weather type.
- Summer season may last until October, while rain turns into snow in early November.
- Temperature is usually between 0 to 10 degrees Celsius.
- Autumn is usually harvest time in Norway.
Winter – December to February
- The average temperature is -6.8 degrees Celsius.
- Experience winter activities such as skiing, sledging, snowshoeing, ice fishing, skating or a fjord cruise.
- Witness the breathtaking Northern Lights (October to March are the best months).
- Visit Christmas markets and fairs during winter season.
Norway offers a well-established transport system with a large network of planes, trains, buses and ferries.
The Norwegian State Railways operates all railways from Kristiansand in the south to Bodø in the north. It also connects Oslo to other major cities with main lines running several times a day.
Car ferry is another authentic and scenic way to travel around Norway especially in Northern Norway and the fjords. The popular Hutigruten is a coastal streamer that travels along the Norwegian coast from Bergen to Kirkenes. Departures are daily with several stops along the coast.
Norway also offers an extensive range of express and long-distance coaches linking all major cities, towns, airports and ferry terminals.
Tipping is not common in Norway except for high-end restaurants and cafes where locals usually give tip if they are satisfied with the food or service. Tip is usually 5 to 15% of the total amount of the bill. Tipping is entirely up to you.
