Things to do in Norway other than the Northern Lights

Grab your wool sweater and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If you decide to visit Norway, you will discover that it is unlike everywhere else you have ever been. Its stunning beauty will stay with you for a long time.

Where should you go, though? What should you do and see in Norway? You can’t possibly see the entire nation in one trip unless you plan on staying for several months.

Discover five fantastic sites and activities to do in Norway by reading our helpful recommendations guide.

Visit the fjords of Norway

With over a thousand fjords to choose from, where do you begin? For starters, our local experts offer three all-time favorites.

GEIRANGERFJORD

Naeryfjord rightfully included this Norwegian treasure on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2005. Geirangerfjord is a perennial candidate for “World’s Most Stunning Fjord.”

The famed Seven Sisters and the Bridal Veil may be seen as serene lakes, massive mountains, and tremendous waterfalls. With our Geirangerfjord travel guide, you’ll find ideas and inspiration for your trip.

NÆRØYFJORD

Naeryfjord, not to be surpassed by its UNESCO-listed cousin Geirangerfjord, has its unique attractions. This fjord was awarded co-status because of its breathtaking landscape, regarded as one of the world’s most fabulous.

Hike famous natural landmarks

Explore Norway’s natural beauty by hiking and climbing enormous mountains to reach picturesque locations. The view from the summit is guaranteed to be worth the effort!

PREIKESTOLEN

Preikestolen, often known as Pulpit Rock, is one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions. The climb to Pulpit Rock takes roughly 4-5 hours round trip (10 kilometers or 6 miles). You’ll reach the top of a 604-meter (1,982-foot) rock with panoramic views of Lysefjord below.

LOEN SKYLIFT

The Loen Skylift, opened by the Queen of Norway in 2017, is one of the latest contributions to Norway’s numerous excellent perspectives. The aerial tramway will transport you 1,011 meters (3,317 ft) to the top of Mount Hoven if you board the cable car here. 

From the peak, you may take in the breathtaking views of Nordfjord, participate in activities, or even get a bite to eat at a café with a view of the fjord.

Explore the cultural gems of Norway

Norway is home to a wide variety of cultural jewels and fascinating cities in addition to natural beauties. Consider metropolitan Oslo, Lillehammer, which hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics, and Bergen, home to the Unesco’s World heritage-listed Bergen Cathedral.

OSLO

Being Norway’s capital and cultural center, Oslo offers numerous attractions that should include on every travel itinerary.

 

The Vigeland Sculpture Park is where you may see the lifetime works of one of Norway’s most recognized artists, sculptor Gustav Vigeland. Take in the magnificent grandeur of the Oslo Royal Palace, the Norwegian Royal Family’s official residence.

 

There are also several museums to visit. Visit the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Munch Museum to learn more about Edvard Munch’s work.

 

Visit the Norwegian Maritime Museum while you’re in town to discover more about the country’s maritime heritage.

 

LILLEHAMMER

Lillehammer, which hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics, is still known for its outdoor sports.

The Norwegian Olympic Museum is a great place to learn about past games. Alternatively, go to the Lysgaard Bakken Ski Jumping Arena, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies.

Take a rail trip through Norway

Even if you don’t have a car, touring Norway is straightforward and pleasurable because of the massive train network. Some of these routes provide unique views of Norway’s breathtaking natural beauty and access to small communities.

FLÅM RAILWAY

The film is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, nestled between towering mountains and beautiful waterfalls within striking distance. 

Dovre Railway

The Dovre Railway takes you deep into Norway’s wilderness. The Dovre Railway, which runs from Oslo to Trondheim via the Gudbrandsdalen valley, passes through fjords, massive mountains, and flowing waterfalls.

Travel to the furthest reaches of the Arctic Circle

Visiting Norway’s northern regions is a must-do on every Nordic explorer’s bucket list. Prepare to see polar bears up close, chase the northern lights, and immerse yourself in Viking culture. 

TROMSØ

Travel north to Troms and experience a city brimming with culture, history, and easy access to nature.

Troms, sometimes known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is a natural stopover for those traveling to the Norwegian Arctic Circle. Try a drink of akvavit at a local bar, take a scenic trip on the Fjellheisen cable car, or try to find the northern lights in the winter.

CRUISES

Sailing to the Arctic Circle allows you to see Norway’s rocky coastline from a whole different perspective. You’ll see towering glaciers, beautiful fjords, and various animals along the route, including humpback and minke whales, walruses, puffins, and polar bears.

Conclusion 

These are the best locations to visit and things to do in Norway. Still, there are so many more amazing sites and activities to enjoy. Norway delivers a memorable trip packed with breathtaking scenery whether you go by road, train, or sea.