After exploring the incredible country of Norway, I put together a list of all my favorite things to do and places to visit. To help you get inspiration and ideas for your own Norwegian adventure, I’m going to share them all with you here. From jaw-dropping waterfalls and majestic glaciers to dramatic mountain peaks and stunning winding roads, Norway offers some of the world’s most beautiful and unique landscapes.
In this travel guide, we’ll explore:
- Geirangerfjord: Iconic Fjord and Waterfalls
- Skageflå Mountain Farm
- Geirangervegen: Scenic Mountain Pass
- Stryn: Picturesque Village
- Lovatnet: Turquoise Lake
- Oldevatnet: Glacial Lake
- Eggjenibba: Lakeside Mountain
- Romsdalen: Majestic Valley
- Trollveggen & Litlefjellet: Giant Rock Face
- Trollstigen (Troll’s Path): Winding Mountain Road
- Atlantic Ocean Road: Archipelago Drive
- Lysebotn: Village by a Fjord
- Pulpit Rock: Dramatic Viewpoint
- Trolltunga: The Famous Troll's Tongue
- Bergen: Historic City
- Ålesund: Charming Fishing Village
- Oslo: A Thriving City
- Tromsø & Lyngen Alps: Northern Alps
- Nordkapp (North Cape): Europe's Northernmost Point
- Svalbard: Artic Archipelago
- Lofoten Islands: Henningsvær, Reine, & Kvalvika
- Saltstraumen: Tidal Whirlpool
- Senja: See the Northern Lights
Geirangerfjord: Iconic Fjord and Waterfalls
Approximately six hours from Oslo, Geirangerfjord is one of Norway’s most sought-after destinations. This natural wonder boasts depths of over 260 meters, surrounded by towering mountains that create a breathtaking backdrop.
One of the fjord’s most iconic attractions is the majestic Seven Sisters waterfall. Comprising seven separate streams, this waterfall cascades down an impressive 410 meters down to the water below.
To fully appreciate the fjord’s splendor, consider taking a ferry or tour boat. This is the best way to witness the waterfalls and majestic fjord. While some visitors arrive by cruise ship, a guided boat tour provides a more immersive experience.
Skageflå Mountain Farm
One of the main reasons I wanted to visit Geirangerfjord was to hike to the historic Skageflå Farm. This ancient farm is perched on a cliff 270 meters above the fjord and offers breathtaking views. To access the hike, you’ll need to take a ferry, which costs around $50 per person. The ferry ride itself offers stunning views of the fjord.
The hike is challenging, with a steep incline up the mountain, but the scenery along the way is spectacular. When you reach the farm, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The traditional Norwegian cabins have moss-covered roofs, and the views from the top are simply astounding.
Skageflå Farm has a rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages. Despite its remote and sometimes treacherous location, the farm was able to support over 100 animals. Today, it’s one of Norway’s most beautiful and iconic hikes, and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Geirangerfjord.
Geirangervegen: Scenic Mountain Pass
As I drove south out of Geiranger, I embarked on one of the most breathtaking mountain passes I’ve ever experienced. The Geirangervegen mountain pass is a must-drive when leaving Geiranger, and for good reason.
One of the first stops I made was at a picturesque set of mountain cabins nestled beside a cascading waterfall. The scene looked like it belonged in a fantasy film. As I continued driving up the winding road, I entered a unique landscape characterized by exposed rock and sparse vegetation. The scenery was dotted with serene lakes, most notably Juvatnet and Lingvatnet.
The drive was punctuated by numerous lookout spots, each offering a unique perspective on the stunning landscape. One of the most impressive viewpoints was the Geiranger Skywalk, the highest fjord view in Norway. For a fee of around $25, visitors can access this platform and take in the awe-inspiring views.
Stryn: Picturesque Village
After exploring Geiranger, we headed to Stryn, a picturesque village about an hour and a half drive away. We spent several days soaking up the beauty of this charming village nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic mountains. The serene atmosphere is enhanced by the winding river that flows gently through the valley.
What makes Stryn an ideal base is its proximity to numerous attractions. You can visit the nearby Stryn Ski Resort, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The resort also provides a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Lovatnet: Turquoise Lake
Just 20 minutes from the charming village of Stranda, Luvatne is a stunning glacier lake with distinct turquoise water and a beautiful mountainous backdrop.
During our visit, we drove to the other side of the lake to Lovatnet, where we discovered the insane Ramnefjellsfossen waterfall. This natural wonder was one of the most impressive waterfalls I saw during my time in Norway.
Oldevatnet: Glacial Lake
Next to Lovatna lies another breathtaking glacial lake, Olevante. Here you can enjoy a scenic drive around the lake’s edge, and as you make your way to the end of the lake, you’ll be greeted by several impressive glaciers and waterfalls. One standout waterfall is Volefosen, which left me in awe. For the more adventurous, a 5-kilometer round-trip hike to the Briksdalsbreen glacier is a must.
Eggjenibba: Lakeside Mountain
Next, we visited the majestic Mount Eggjenibba and stopped at the serene lake Bergheimsvatnet . This perfectly shaped mountain peak is reminiscent of the iconic Matterhorn, and the tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery made for a wonderful spot to relax and take in the view. If the wind is calm, the lake’s surface reflects the mountain peak perfectly, creating a magnificent view.
Romsdalen: Majestic Valley
Next up, we visited the breathtaking Romsdalen Valley, five hours out from Oslo. This phenomenal valley is surrounded by some of Europe’s highest cliffs which left me in awe of their sheer scale and grandeur. The valley is also home to a ton of waterfalls, including some of the tallest in Norway. One of the most impressive waterfalls is Mongefossen which boasts a single drop of 773 meters making it the fourth-highest in the country.
Trollveggen & Litlefjellet: Giant Rock Face
When you’re in Romsdalen you have to visit Trollveggen, the tallest vertical rock face in all of Europe at an impressive height of 1,700 meters. One of the best vantage points to witness Trollveggen’s grandeur is from Litlefjellet, also known as Little Mountain.
To reach Litlefjellet, take the toll road which costs approximately $10 and embark on a relatively easy 20-minute hike.
During my visit, the clouds partially obscured the view, but Trollveggen’s majesty still shone through. Beyond Trollveggen, the panoramic views from Litleåsen are breathtaking. Take in the uniquely shaped Romsdalshorn peak, the winding river, and the valley below. Witnessing sunrise here is an unforgettable experience.
Trollveggen is undoubtedly one of Norway’s most remarkable natural wonders, and visiting this site was a highlight of my Norwegian adventure.
Trollstigen (Troll’s Path): Winding Mountain Road
Just 20 minutes from Trollveggen, Trollstigen is probably the most famous road in Norway. This serpentine marvel features 11 hairpin turns as it winds its way up the mountain. First opened in 1936 after an impressive eight-year construction period, Trollstigen offers an unforgettable driving experience.
As you wind your way up the road, keep your eyes peeled for two sites in particular: Stigfossen, with its impressive 320-meter height, and the picturesque bridge that arches over it.
At the top of Trollstigen, visitors can explore a modern Visitor Center and take a short five-minute walk to a lookout point. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the road and the surrounding landscape. Even on a cloudy day, the atmosphere is nothing short of magical.
Atlantic Ocean Road: Archipelago Drive
The Atlantic Ocean Road is another one of Norway’s most famous drives. This 8.3-kilometer stretch of road traverses an archipelago of islands, and boasts eight bridges and four viewpoints. Completed in 1989, the Atlantic Ocean Road is an impressive feat of engineering, earning it the Norwegian Construction of the Century award. If you’re planning a Norway road trip, a drive along this scenic road is an absolute must.
Lysebotn: Village by a Fjord
Down in southern Norway to visit Lysebotn, a small village about a three-hour drive from Stavanger. The scenic road leading to Lysebotn is what makes it truly special. With 27 hairpin turns, the road descends down the fjord to the village below.
When you reach the bottom, you’ll be amazed by the surrounding walls of the fjord. The scenery is breathtaking, making this drive a must-do for anyone visiting Norway.
Pulpit Rock: Dramatic Viewpoint
Next, we’re going to visit the iconic Pulpit Rock, located in the same fjord as Lysebotn. This famous flat-top cliff features a staggering 600-meter drop. To experience it firsthand, park at the base camp and embark on a scenic 6-kilometer hike. Be aware that Pulpit Rock can get crowded, so consider waking up early to catch the sunrise and avoid the masses.
Trolltunga: The Famous Troll’s Tongue
Now we’re off to the iconic Trolltunga. Located about six hours from Oslo, Trolltunga is Norway’s most famous rock formation. It dramatically juts out over 2,000 feet above the lake below.
Trolltunga is definitely one of the hardest hikes you’ll ever do – a 28-kilometer round-trip trek that takes anywhere from 8 to 12 hours to complete. While extremely strenuous, the views of Trolltunga are hard to beat.
Bergen: Historic City
Located on Norway’s southwest coast and surrounded by majestic fjords, Bergen is one of Norway’s most captivating cities. Founded in 1070, Bergen’s rich history is deeply rooted in its maritime trade dominance. In fact, it was Norway’s largest city until the 1830s.
Today, Bergen is famous for its vibrant, colorful wooden houses lining the historic wharf. For a panoramic view of the city, hike to the top of Mount Fløyen (also known as the “Flying Mountain”). The breathtaking views from the summit are simply stunning.
Ålesund: Charming Fishing Village
Next, we’re off to Ålesund, a picturesque fishing town located about seven hours from Bergen. Built on a unique archipelago, Ålesund is renowned for its beautifully colored buildings, which seem to defy gravity as they perch on the ocean’s edge.
For a bird’s-eye view of the city, head to the Fjellstua Viewpoint or Mount Aksla Lookout. Both offer breathtaking panoramas of the fjord and surrounding islands. If you’re visiting during winter, you might be lucky enough to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dancing across the Norwegian sky.
Oslo: A Thriving City
Located on Norway’s southern coast, Oslo is a city that seamlessly blends history and modernity. Founded at the end of the Viking age in the 11th century, Oslo has evolved into one of Europe’s fastest-growing cities.
As you explore the city, you’ll be struck by the futuristic architecture and world-class museums. The Oslo Opera House is a standout landmark, resembling a gleaming iceberg that appears to slide into the water. Completed in 2007, this stunning building features slanted marble and granite surfaces that seem to defy gravity.
Tromsø & Lyngen Alps: Northern Alps
When you look at Tromsø on a map, it’s wild to see how high up it is. Located in the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is the northernmost city in the world with a population of over 20,000 people. Tromsø and the surrounding area are one of the best places in the world to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights.
From Tromsø, there are plenty of cool places to visit. You can head to the Lyngen Alps, about an hour and a half away, and hike to the crystal-clear Blåvatnet Lake.
Nordkapp (North Cape): Europe’s Northernmost Point
The North Cape, or Nordkapp, is the northernmost point of Continental Europe. This rugged headland stands atop a 370-meter cliff that plunges into the sea. Reaching the North Cape requires a journey: you can drive nine hours from Tromsø or fly into Honningsvåg or Alta airports. While it’s a long way to go, the experience is well worth it.
Svalbard: Artic Archipelago
Svalbard, located halfway between the North Pole and Norway, is the world’s northernmost inhabited area. The capital, Longyearbyen, has a population of just 2,000 people. What’s unique about Svalbard is that it’s a visa-free zone, allowing anyone to move and work there. However, the harsh Arctic climate and polar bears pose significant dangers. In some areas, it’s even mandatory to carry a gun for protection.
Lofoten Islands: Henningsvær, Reine, & Kvalvika
The breathtaking Lofoten Islands are our next destination. Located in Northern Norway, within the Arctic Circle, Lofoten feels surprisingly like a tropical paradise. I was fortunate enough to visit a few summers ago, and my road trip through the islands was unforgettable.
Henningsvær
Our journey through the Lofoten Islands began in Henningsvær, a quaint fishing village. This charming town is home to the world’s most scenic soccer field, which we couldn’t resist exploring. Although we didn’t have a ball, we enjoyed the breathtaking views of the village.
Reine
We continued our drive and arrived in Reine, a picturesque town that embodies the essence of Norway. The town’s iconic red houses, surrounded by majestic sea mountains, make it a sight to behold. Reine is one of the most beautiful towns in the Lofoten Islands.
Kvalvika Beach
For an unforgettable experience, I highly recommend hiking to Kvalvika Beach. This moderate 4-kilometer round-trip trek is rewarding to say the least. The beach boasts an incredible landscape, with mountains reminiscent of Switzerland, an ocean that rivals the Caribbean, and grass as green as a tropical island. The unique blend of landscapes will leave you in awe, especially considering its location within the Arctic Circle.
For more things to do in Lofoten and Northern Norway, check out this more detailed guide.
Saltstraumen: Tidal Whirlpool
To witness one of the world’s largest whirlpools, you can head to Saltstraumen. A three-hour ferry ride away from Lofoten, Saltstraumen is a natural wonder with over 110 billion gallons of water passing through the strait every six hours, making it one of the strongest currents in the world.
One of the coolest features of Saltstraumen is the whirlpools that form with the changing tides. While they aren’t the kind of whirlpools you’d imagine from movies, they can get over 33 feet in diameter and 16 feet deep when the current is at its strongest. You can take a boat ride through the current or witness the whirlpools from the ridge above.
Senja: See the Northern Lights
Located above the Arctic Circle, Senja is Norway’s second-largest island. I was drawn to Senja to hike to the iconic Segla mountain. From the town of Fjordgard, you can hike to the top and witness the breathtaking view of the rock formation rising hundreds of meters out of the ocean.
I was having the time of my life, and I decided to spend the night on top of the mountain to see the Northern Lights. With just a blanket and my camera bag as a pillow, I set up camp on a mossy cliff ledge and waited for the Aurora Borealis to appear. Around 11 pm, I witnessed the spectacular display above my head. The lights moved surprisingly fast, like snakes dancing across the Arctic sky.
Seeing the Northern Lights was a magical experience that made me feel like a kid again. It will forever be one of the most special nights of my life. Sometimes, you don’t need to fall asleep to start dreaming.
Norway is filled with endless beauty. For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts it’s hard to find a better country to visit, and I hope that this list of all my favorite spots can inspire your next adventure.
To take a closer look at my journey through Norway, you can watch this video right here:
