Norway Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Have you never visited Norway before? It's a dream destination for many travellers, but there's so much to know before you visit. Here's how to make the most of your first trip to the land of the fjords.

So, you've finally decided to whip out the credit card and book that dream trip to Norway? Welcome! This article is for you. I'm going to run through everything you need to know to make the most of a first-time visit.

Norway, with its dramatic landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique culture, is a bucket list destination for so many travellers from around the world.

Whether you're drawn by the allure of its mighty fjords, the chance to see the northern lights, or the charm of its historic cities, Norway offers an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors.

Who am I? My name is David Nikel, author of a guidebook to Norway, and the founder of this very website. I've spent more than 13 years living in Oslo and Trondheim, and traveling the length and breadth of this remarkable country.

I've lost count of how many international visitors I've bumped into on my travels who've had a burning question or a frustration, that could have been easily solved. That was partly the reason I wrote the guidebook, and partly the reason for this article.

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I’ll start by talking about the best places to visit whether you want to see cities, fjords or a bit of both. I'll look at when to come, and give lots of practical advice, as well as linking to other relevant articles I've written. Ready? Let's go!

Why Visit Norway?

First things first, perhaps you're not yet completely sold on the idea of visiting Norway? In that case, perhaps the Life in Norway YouTube channel can help.

Over there, you'll find videos covering lots of destinations in Norway. For example, check out one of my favourite videos all about the Norwegian coastal voyage in the winter.

Even if this video puts you off visiting Norway in the winter, I hope it gives you an idea of the spectacular nature you can expect, whenever you do visit.

From the best of the Norwegian fjords to the spellbinding Arctic scenery of Svalbard, Life in Norway's YouTube channel will help convince you one way or another.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Norway?

Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not need a visa to visit Norway. This also applies if you hold a residence permit in an EU/EEA country. You just show your passport/permit at the border control, and you're in.

If you're arriving from a Schengen area country, there are no passport checks.

Citizens of many other countries also don't need a visit because they hold a passport from a country that Norway has a visa exemption agreement with. This includes the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. You can see the full list here.

In all these cases, you can visit Norway for up to 90 days without any need to register. You can also visit countries within the Schengen area during this 90-day period.

Citizens from other countries will need to apply for a visitor visa. If you plan to visit Norway as a tourist, you can be granted a visa if you have strong ties to your home country. Your chances increase if you join an organised tour.

Other requirements include valid transport and money of at least NOK 500 per day you plan to spend in Norway. If granted, the visitor visa allows entry to the Schengen area for 90 days.

The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) will assess the probability of the applicant returning to their home country before granting the visitor permit.

When to Visit Norway

Great question! Norway isn't like say the Canary Islands where you can just book a flight and pretty much guarantee good weather anytime of the year. The seasons are very distinct and they can make a massive impact on travel.

For example, the fjords look absolutely stunning in the winter with a dusting of snow over the steep mountainsides. But the reason you don't see many photos? It's simply because many of the access roads are closed at that time of year!

The summer is generally regarded as the best time to visit Norway as its the warmest time of year, relatively dry, and tourist attractions are in full swing.

But you'll need to think again if you want to ski or see the northern lights. Read our full guide on when to go to Norway for the lowdown and our recommendations.

Where to Visit in Norway

Perhaps even more so than when to visit, the most common question I get is, “where in Norway?”

My answer, frustrating as it is, is that it depends. Simply put, my own preferences won't necessarily be the same as yours.

Norway is a large, diverse nation full of different experiences, so what I'm going to do next is run-through the major destinations one-by-one to help you decide which places are best for you.

One theme that threads runs all of these places is the outdoors. Norway has spectacular natural beauty even in its cities, and Norwegians are outdoors people. That is reflected in many of the attractions on offer.

Oslo

Norway's capital, Oslo, is the obvious starting point for many travellers, especially those flying into Oslo Airport. It's well worth dedicating at least a day to explore this dynamic city.

Renowned for its world-class museums and stunning sculpture parks, Oslo offers some of the best cultural experiences in Scandinavia. The Opera House, National Museum and Munch Museum are good places to start.

But even spending time in Oslo doesn't mean missing out on the great outdoors. Even on a short city break, you can immerse yourself in nature, with vast forests and the picturesque Oslofjord islands just a stone's throw away.

In the evening, Oslo tempts with its diverse dining scene. In recent years, many restaurants have earned Michelin stars, evidence of the thriving interest in gastronomy throughout Norway.

Bergen

Norway's second biggest city, Bergen is known as the gateway to the fjords, but it has a lot to offer as a tourist attraction in its own right. The best way to travel here? The world-famous Bergen Line railway from Oslo is a must-do travel experience.

From the UNESCO World Heritage site at Bryggen to the restored stave church in a leafy suburb, Bergen is a great place to spend a day. It also has its share of quirks, such as the leprosy museum and an enjoyable aquarium.

Like Oslo, Bergen also has great access to nature. Take the short funicular railway for a panoramic view of the city and access to miles of hiking trails.

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There's also a cable car farther out from the city centre. A popular activity among locals is to take the cable car up, hike for several hours, then take the funicular railway back down to central Bergen.

The Norwegian Fjords

While the Norwegian fjords were recently ranked by one travel publisher as the world's number one travel destination, it isn't really a destination. At least, not one you can go to and enjoy in one day, or even in a week.

The Norwegian fjords are spread all over the country, from the Trollfjord near Lofoten to the Oslofjord. Even what most people would consider as the main area–the region marketed as ‘Fjord Norway'–stretches for hundreds of kilometres along the west coast.

So if you want to see the fjords, there's two main strategies to consider. Firstly, plan a road trip around one or more of the biggest fjords, or secondly, incorporate a visit to a fjord that's accessible from another destination.

Fjords that fall into the latter category include the Lysefjord (Stavanger), the Hardangerfjord (Bergen) and the Hjørunfjord and Geirangerfjord (Ålesund).

Although some distance away from Bergen, the Sognefjord is also a good option from the city thanks to good fast ferry and train connections.

The Mountains of Norway

Norway has 47 national parks, of which 40 are on the mainland and seven on Svalbard. These parks protect diverse landscapes, ranging from dramatic mountains and deep fjords to vast forests and Arctic tundra.

Perhaps the best known of the mountainous national parks is Jotunheimen National Park. More than 250 peaks rise above 1,900 metres, including Northern Europe's two highest mountains.

At 2,469 metres, the summit of Galdhøpiggen is a popular destination for locals and foreign visitors. Despite its heigh, its relatively easy to climb given that roads wind their way up to well over 1,500m above sea level.

There' also plenty of places to stay in and around the park, such as this beautiful former farmstead, now hotel.

But that's just one option. The Scandinavian mountains stretch for hundreds of kilometres through the very heart of Norway, so hikers are not going to be disappointed.

Stavanger

Norway's oil and gas business capital offers visitors relatively easy access to the Lysefjord and its famous Pulpit Rock, but the city itself is worth exploring too.

That's especially true for fans of street art, as Stavanger is one of the world's premier destinations to see the art form. The city's warehouses, homes, even lampposts are a canvas, and are home to one of Europe's biggest street art festivals.

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum and the Maritime Museum are among the interesting museums. Cruise passengers in particular will enjoy the old town, as the white, wooden houses and cobbled streets are just steps from the port.

Trondheim

One of Norway's oldest cities, Trondheim is rich in history and culture. As a first-time visitor, you'll be captivated by the stunning Nidaros Cathedral, Scandinavia's largest medieval building, and the historic wooden wharves along the Nidelva River.

Explore the charming Bakklandet district with its colourful houses and cozy cafés. Trondheim is also known for its vibrant student life, contributing to its lively atmosphere.

Music lovers shouldn't miss the chance to visit the modern Rockheim museum of contemporary music and the historic Ringve Music Museum. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views from the Kristiansten Fortress and a boat trip out to Munkholmen island.

Arctic Norway

Norway's far north may as well be a different country. There's different dialects, different scenery and a very different feel to the place.

For example, in Kautokeino, Karasjok and to a certain extent Alta, there's a visible community of Sami. In Kirkenes, many of the street signs are bilingual, with Norwegian and Russian spellings.

The mountains of the Lofoten Islands are jagged and rise almost vertically out of the ocean, in stark contrast to the rolling mountain ranges farther south. In much of Finnmark, you won't see a person–or even a tree–for kilometres at a time.

Finally, the North Cape, Europe's northernmost point, is a popular destination for those exploring the region by car.

Other Cities in Norway

Norway's cities each offer unique attractions and experiences, making them well worth a visit.

Tromsø features the iconic Arctic Cathedral and offers a good chance to witness the northern lights–at the right time of year, of course. In the summer, the midnight sun prolongs the daylight hours available for outdoor activities.

Lillehammer, with its rich Olympic heritage, is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer, its great for hiking and learning more about the Olympic movement in general at the Norwegian Olympic Museum.

Kristiansand shines as a summer destination, boasting beautiful beaches and a lively cultural scene. It's a popular cruise ship port and also provides access to Europe via ferries.

For something different, explore Ålesund's striking art nouveau architecture, a testament to its post-fire rebuilding. This charming city also serves as a gateway to the stunning Hjørundfjord and Geirangerfjord, ideal for day trips into nature.

Cruise Travel in Norway

Cruising is one of the most scenic and relaxed ways to experience Norway's breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic fjords to the Arctic wilderness, cruises in Norway offer an unparalleled voyage through nature's wonders.

International cruise lines frequently include Norwegian ports in their itineraries, offering a mix of shorter coastal routes and extended Nordic and Baltic adventures. Dedicated Norwegian fjords itineraries are a popular choice.

These cruises provide a unique opportunity to explore Norway's charming cities, such as Bergen, Ålesund, and Tromsø, while enjoying the comfort and luxury of cruise travel.

Additionally, many cruises offer excursions that allow you to delve deeper into Norway's cultural and natural highlights, such as glacier hikes, northern lights tours, and visits to historic sites.

Whether you're embarking on a short voyage or a longer expedition, cruising through Norway is a memorable way to experience the country’s awe-inspiring beauty and rich maritime heritage.

Another intriguing option is the Norwegian coastal voyage, a ferry service that travels from Bergen all the way up to Kirkenes and back again in 12 days, calling in at 34 different ports.

The trip gives you the opportunity to explore some of Norway's most interesting cities like Ålesund, Trondheim, and Tromsø, and you can book optional excursions to see other highlights. Shorter trips are also available.

Hurtigruten and Havila are the two companies that operate services on the coastal route. In addition, Hurtigruten offers expedition cruise, and signature cruises to the North Cape and Svalbard at different times of the year.

Skiing in Norway

Norway is a skier's paradise, offering world-class slopes and stunning winter landscapes. Whether you're an experienced skier or a beginner, Norway has something for everyone.

The country boasts numerous ski resorts, with popular destinations including Trysil, Hemsedal, and Hafjell, which offer a mix of alpine skiing and family-friendly slopes.

For those seeking adventure, Norway's vast backcountry is perfect for cross-country skiing, with well-marked trails through forests and over mountains.

Thousands of kilometres of cross-country skiing trails are prepared at the beginning of every season by a dedicated nationwide team of volunteers. Not only that, but there's cabins available for use all around the country (joining DNT is recommended), meaning multi-day trips are possible.

Norway's ski season typically runs from November to April, with optimal conditions in the winter months.

How to Travel Around Norway

Exploring Norway’s incredible diversity, from its vibrant cities to its remote fjords and Arctic landscapes, requires some travel within the country.

Whether you're visiting cosmopolitan hubs like Oslo or venturing into the breathtaking countryside, getting around Norway is an essential part of the experience.

While Norway's cities typically have well-established public transport networks, and long-distance links between cities are made possible with planes and domestic flights, public transport gets a lot more difficult in the countryside.

Buses exist and cover much of the country, but they are infrequent and require meticulous planning. If you want to see the fjords, you can choose between an organised trip or renting a car and taking a DIY approach.

While there are obvious environmental considerations, having your own transport gives you the flexibility you'll want while exploring Norway.

In Lofoten for example, there's something new to see around every corner, and you'll quickly lose count of the number of stops you'll want to make for photos.

Practical Travel Tips

After 13 years of running this website, I've amassed a lot of travel advice! So, let's get going with some practical travel tips for those of you planning a first-time visit to Norway.

Generally speaking, Norway is a safe country to visit. Tap water is drinkable! Locals speak English, or at the very least understand it, and typically are happy to help a lost visitor. Engaging in conversation beyond that, however, may be difficult!

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When it comes to staying in touch, Norway is subject to the same roaming regulations as all EU member countries, so if you have a mobile phone from an EU/EEA country you can use it in Norway on the same terms. More here.

Planning to drive? If you have a licence from an EU/EEA country, it can be used in Norway with no hassle for as long as it is valid. Everyone else can use a valid driving licence for up to three months, but an international driving permit is required for some countries.

You may use your valid driving licence from any country for up to three months in Norway, whether you are just visiting or are planning to stay. Of course, it's your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the Norwegian rules of the road.

Finally, check out our recommendation for a VPN to keep your data safe while you travel. It's also essential to take out comprehensive travel insurance before you start your trip.

Cost of Travel in Norway

Ah, the million dollar question! I've sort of surprised myself by writing so many words without mentioning the cost. So, it's time to address the elephant in the room.

Because of the way currencies and exchange rates work, Norway is an expensive country for almost all foreigners to visit. That being said, at the time of writing, Norway's weak krone means the exchange rates are in your benefit as a visitor.

Even so, regardless of the exchange rates, your trip doesn't have to break the bank.

The two most expensive elements of a Norwegian holiday are accommodation and food. If you want to stay in high-end hotels and eat in fancy restaurants every night, then bring your credit card.

Staying in cabins (many located on campsites) where you can cook your own meals and enjoy Norway's wonderful nature is my top tip to save money, and get a true Norwegian experience thrown in too.

If you're sticking to the cities, there's a lot more budget hotels in Oslo now than when I first moved to Norway. This will help keep the costs down, and it's a trend that has spread to other cities too, particularly Bergen and Tromsø.

A Helping Hand

I hope this guide has pointed you in the right direction when it comes to planning your trip. For more inspiration and information, be sure to join Life in Norway for free.

You'll receive Norway Weekly, our free email newsletter packed with all things in Norway, in English. Subscribers also get access to our YouTube videos and podcasts, so you won't miss out on anything.

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