Top 10 must-visit attractions in Norway

All year round, Norway has prepared a variety of tourist activities for you in different parts of the country. Among the top 10 hottest tourist destinations selected by visitnorway.com, there are both bustling cities like Oslo and Arctic-style islands like Svalbard. Choose your favorite place and even if you visit during the off-season, you can still have unlimited fun.

Bergen

Bergen is the hometown of the world-renowned musician Kygo, where you can hear different music, get different feelings, and taste different delicacies. Fresh seafood and other local cuisine complement the warm artistic atmosphere created by museums and galleries. Under the "Seven Mountains", many fairy-tale wooden houses line the streets of this central city in the fjord region.

Tromso

In the Arctic region, there are few main roads with such an international metropolitan atmosphere. Tromsø, located on the Tromshalvøya peninsula, is known as the "Arctic capital," and rightfully so, as there are many attractions and activities in the city, such as the Polaria Centre, the Polar Museum, the Mack brewery established in 1877, as well as whale watching, experiencing the midnight sun, and enjoying the Northern Lights.

Sognefjord

The Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, with its branch Nærøyfjord being listed as a World Heritage Site. The surrounding mountain areas are one of the most popular hiking destinations among Norwegians. The Sognefjord region is currently applying for sustainable tourism destination certification, which represents recognition for destinations that have taken systematic measures to reduce the negative impact of tourism.

Oslo

Oslo is a city surrounded by nature and it was awarded the 2019 European Green Capital. It was also recognized by Lonely Planet as the "Best in Travel for 2018". There are many delicious foods in the city, including the world's northernmost Michelin three-star restaurant. Oslo is also home to some of the world's most award-winning baristas and coffee roasters.

Lovetown Islands

Like a fjord cutting into the mainland, the Lofoten Islands resemble arms surrounding the sea. The high mountains on the islands point straight up to the Arctic sky like church spires, with traditional villages dotted in between where fishermen and artists live.

Stavanger

For nearly 50 years, Stavanger has been the center of Norway's oil industry, but this has not diminished the charm of this seaside city nor affected its status as home to Norway's best hiking spots. Here, you can explore the Lysefjord region and famous mountains like the Pulpit Rock. There are both Michelin-starred restaurants and smaller, understated restaurants that strive for excellence.

Fromm

A 20-kilometer-long mountain railway takes you through the deepest part of the branch Aurlandsfjord in the Sognefjord, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery there. Remember that this is the most popular tourist attraction in Norway, and it is not busy or crowded at all in spring, autumn, and early summer.

Svalbard Islands

This is the largest island in the northernmost part of Europe and the wildlife and plants on the island are incomparable to other places. Meanwhile, the social order here is also very good. You can participate in activities that you have never seen before throughout the year. As most tour guides are locals, you can experience Svalbard like a local. The main city on the island, Longyearbyen, is a mini metropolis, with services and excellent restaurants usually found only in large cities.

Garonnell fjord

The Seven Sisters Waterfall and other waterfalls cascade down steep cliffs and flow into the 15-kilometer-long clear and blue Geiranger Fjord. Here, you can experience peace and tranquility in the midst of nature's finest scenery. Geiranger Fjord is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is mostly in its off-season for tourism. There are many activities in the surrounding area throughout the year.

Hadange fjord

From Hardangerfjord to Folgefonna Glacier and the iconic Trolltunga, Hardanger is home to Norway's most beautiful natural scenery and showcases the vibrant Norwegian culture to visitors. The region's orchards, blooming with fruit trees, are also a famous sight to behold. The area also boasts rich and diverse cultural traditions.