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 world-renowned musician Kygo. Here, you can experience unique music, gain different feelings, and taste unique delicacies. Fresh seafood and other local cuisines complement the vibrant artistic atmosphere created by museums and galleries. Under the 'Seven Mountains,' the streets of this central city in the fjord region are lined with many fairy-tale wooden houses.

Tromsø

In the Arctic region, there are few main streets with such an international urban flair. Tromsø, located on the Tromshalvøya peninsula, is known as the 'Capital of the Arctic' and lives up to its name. The city boasts many attractions and activities, such as the Polaria Centre (Arctic Aquarium), the Polar Museum, the Mack Brewery established in 1877, as well as whale watching, experiencing the midnight sun, and admiring the Northern Lights.

Sognefjord

Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, with its branch Nærøyfjord listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding mountains are one of Norway's most popular hiking destinations. The Sognefjord region is applying for sustainable tourism destination certification, which recognizes destinations that have taken systematic measures to reduce the negative impacts of tourism.

Oslo

Oslo is a city embraced by nature. It was awarded the title of European Green Capital 2019 and was named 'Best in Travel for 2018' by Lonely Planet. The city offers a variety of gourmet foods, including the world's northernmost three-Michelin-star restaurant. Oslo is also home to some of the world's most awarded baristas and coffee roasters.

Lofoten Islands

Like fjords cutting into the land, the Lofoten Islands resemble arms encircling the sea. The high mountains on the islands point straight to the Arctic sky like church spires. Between these mountains lie traditional villages inhabited by fishermen and artists.

Stavanger

For nearly 50 years, Stavanger has been the oil capital of Norway, but this has not diminished the charm of this seaside city, nor has it affected its status as one of the best hiking destinations in Norway. Here, you can explore the Lysefjord region and famous landmarks such as the Pulpit Rock. The area boasts Michelin-starred restaurants as well as more understated eateries that also strive for excellence.

Flåm

A 20-kilometer mountain railway takes you through the innermost part of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, showcasing its beautiful scenery. Remember this most visited tourist attraction in Norway is not crowded at all in spring, autumn, and early summer.

Svalbard Archipelago

This is the largest island in Europe located at the northernmost geographical position. The wildlife on the island is incomparable to other places, and the local social order is also very good. Throughout the year, you can step into nature and participate in activities you have never seen before. Since most of the guides are locals, you can experience Svalbard like a local. The main city on the island, Longyearbyen, is a mini metropolis because it has services and excellent restaurants that are usually only found in large cities.

Geirangerfjord

Waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters cascade down steep cliffs, merging into the clear, blue waters of the 15-kilometer-long Geirangerfjord. Here, you can experience some of the world's finest natural scenery and feel a sense of peace and tranquility in nature. Geirangerfjord is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is mostly in the off-season for tourism. There are many activities available in the surrounding areas throughout the year.

Hardangerfjord

From Hardangerfjord to Folgefonna Glacier and the iconic Trolltunga, the Hardanger region boasts some of Norway's most beautiful and magnificent natural scenery, showcasing the splendid Norwegian culture to visitors. The orchards in full bloom are also a famous sight in this region that never fails to impress. This area also has a rich and colorful cultural tradition.