Norway Travel Advices

Norway Travel Advices

Expert tips for gear, clothing, and gadgets to enhance your travel experience.

As someone who has traveled to Norway multiple times, here’s some advice to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Embrace Norway’s Outdoor Adventures

Norway is known for its stunning natural landscapes, so outdoor activities are a must:

• Fjords: Take a cruise through the Norwegian fjords like Geirangerfjord or Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The dramatic cliffs and waterfalls are breathtaking.

• Hiking: Popular hikes include Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Trolltunga, which offer spectacular views. Just be prepared for the varying difficulty levels and weather changes.

• Northern Lights: If you're visiting in the winter, head to northern Norway (Tromsø, Alta, or the Lofoten Islands) for a chance to see the Aurora Borealis.

2. Plan Around the Seasons

Norway offers vastly different experiences depending on when you go:

• Summer (June to August): Enjoy long days with the Midnight Sun in the northern regions. It's the perfect time for hiking, road trips, and exploring coastal towns.

• Winter (November to March): This is prime time for winter sports like skiing and dog sledding, especially in Lillehammer or the Lofoten Islands. It's also great for Northern Lights hunting.

• Spring and Autumn: Shoulder seasons offer quieter, less crowded experiences with mild weather, but some attractions may be closed.

3. Pack for the Weather

Norwegian weather is unpredictable, even in summer, so packing layers is essential:

• Waterproof clothing: Norway’s weather can be rainy, especially along the coast, so bring a good waterproof jacket and shoes.

• Warm layers: Even in summer, evenings and early mornings can be chilly, especially in the mountains.

• Winter gear: If traveling in winter, pack warm, insulating layers, gloves, hats, and proper boots to handle the cold and snow.

4. Consider the Costs

Norway is an expensive country, so budgeting is key:

• Accommodations: Hotels and Airbnbs can be pricey, so consider staying in guesthouses, camping, or using Norwegian cabins (hytter), which are great for an authentic experience.

• Food: Eating out can be expensive, but you can save by buying food from supermarkets and enjoying picnics during hikes or scenic stops.

• Public Transportation: Trains, buses, and ferries are efficient and can be cost-effective if booked in advance. The Norwegian Scenic Routes are great for road trips if you prefer driving.

5. Get the Right Transportation

Depending on your trip, choose transportation that suits your itinerary:

• Trains: The Bergen Railway is a must. It offers stunning views from Oslo to Bergen and is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

• Car Rental: If you plan to explore rural or remote areas, renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit hidden gems like the Atlantic Road or Trollstigen.

• Ferries: Many fjord towns are connected by ferries. Norway’s ferry network is extensive and essential for exploring the coastal and island regions.

6. Learn About Local Culture and Customs

Norwegians value their privacy but are friendly and welcoming. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Respect for nature: Norwegians take environmental conservation seriously. Leave no trace when hiking or camping, and respect wildlife.

• Allemannsretten: This "right to roam" law allows you to hike and camp on uncultivated land, so you can enjoy nature freely, but responsibly.

• Tipping: Tipping isn’t expected in Norway, but rounding up a bill is appreciated in restaurants and taxis.

7. Don’t Miss Norway’s Scenic Drives

Norway is home to some of the most beautiful drives in the world:

• The Atlantic Road: This stunning stretch of road connects a series of small islands with bridges and offers incredible ocean views.

• Trollstigen: A famous serpentine road that winds through dramatic mountain terrain.

• The Golden Route: Takes you from Oslo to Bergen with stops in scenic villages and fjord areas.

8. Prepare for Limited Daylight in Winter

If you’re traveling in winter, be aware that northern Norway has very limited daylight during the Polar Night (from November to January). In contrast, during the summer, northern Norway experiences the Midnight Sun, with 24 hours of daylight.

9. Sample Norwegian Cuisine

Norwegian food is simple but delicious, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients:

• Seafood: Try salmon, cod, and seafood dishes like klippfisk (dried cod) or lutefisk.

• Local specialties: Don’t miss out on trying rakfisk (fermented fish), reindeer, and local cheeses.

• Cafés and Bakeries: Norway has excellent cafés where you can enjoy fresh pastries like skillingsboller (cinnamon buns) and lefse (sweet flatbread).

10. Get a Norway Pass

If you plan to visit a lot of museums, attractions, or use public transport, the Oslo Pass or the Bergen Card can save you money on entry fees and transportation within the city.