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Norway - Land of the Midnight Sun
Norway is a country of stunning natural beauty, offering visitors an unparalleled experience with its dramatic fjords, majestic mountains, and vibrant cities. A must-visit is the Geirangerfjord, one of the country’s most famous UNESCO-listed fjords. To experience Norwegian culture, try traditional dishes like Lutefisk or Raspeballer. For adventure seekers, Norway is the birthplace of skiing, making it perfect for winter sports. In the summer, activities like hiking Trolltunga or experiencing the Midnight Sun in northern Norway should not be missed.
Oslo:
Kyststi
The National Museum (entrance fee €16.95)
How cool is this spinning dice we got from the National Museum? It’s made from wood and bone. We’ll be using it for our game nights.
Oslo City Hall
Akershus Fortress
Glory glory with crutches
Oslo Cathedral
Karl Johans gt. (notable street)
Carl Heftye (store)
University Square
Nationaltheatret (entrance fee €11.88)
The Royal Palace
Illums Bolighus - Vikaterassen (department store)
Aker Brygge Clock Tower
KOK Oslo Sauna, Aker Brygge (floating sauna)
Astrup Fearnley Museet (entrance fee €12.72)
The Oslo Tree (art installation)
Will we live in a world where trees are just mere art installations and no longer real?
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Parking in the city center of Oslo cost us 126.50 NOK (11 euros) per hour.
At nearly 11 euros per hour, this is officially the most expensive parking fee we’ve ever paid. Driving in Scandinavian countries, I appreciate that Finland has no traffic, while Sweden, Norway, and Denmark have far too many cars. In Japan (Tokyo), you can’t own a car unless you have designated parking within a few meters of your home. In Europe, you can often park your car on the street for free, except in city centers like Oslo, where you have no choice but to pay for parking.
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Fredrikstad:
Fredrikstadbrua (bridge)
Gamlebyen (old town)
Mormors Cafe
PAPER AND CARDWARE SALE In The Old Town
Gamle Fredrikstad kirke
Fredrikstad Museum (entrance fee 100MOK)
Galleri Biedilæ & Vedvik
Gamlebyen Geit Og Fjærkreavlslag (zoo)
Old Town Model Train Center
Isegran fort
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Drøbak:
Tregaardens Julehus (Christmas store)
Drøbak Church
Drøbak Akvarium (entrance fee €10.13)
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Limastranda Beach
Stensgård church
Hadeland Glassverk
Terrace View Waterfall
Gledeshuset Hønefoss (restaurant)
8 Must-Visit Places in Norway
Norway is known for its stunning natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and unique cultural experiences. Here are 10 must-visit places in Norway, each offering a unique experience:
1. Geirangerfjord
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fjord is famous for its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls (like the Seven Sisters), and deep blue waters. The surrounding mountains are perfect for hiking.
Key attractions:
Flydalsjuvet
Ørnesvingen (Eagle’s Bend)
Seven Sisters Waterfall
Geiranger Skywalk (Dalsnibba)
Skageflå
2. Lofoten Islands
Known for its rugged landscape, dramatic peaks, sheltered bays, and small fishing villages. A popular spot for seeing the Northern Lights and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
Key attractions:
Reine
Haukland Beach
Svolvaergeita
Nusfjord
Kvalvika Beach
3. Tromsø
Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø is one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights. It also offers great hiking in summer and dog sledding in winter.
Key attractions:
Fjellheisen Cable Car
Arctic Cathedral
Polaria
Tromsø Botanical Garden
Tromsø Ice Domes
4. Bergen
The picturesque city of Bergen, with its colorful houses along the waterfront in Bryggen (a UNESCO World Heritage site), is the gateway to the fjords. The surrounding mountains and the Fløyen funicular offer beautiful views.
Key attractions:
Bryggen
Mount Fløyen
Mount Ulriken
Bergenhus Fortress
Fish Market
5. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
A dramatic cliff rising 604 meters above Lysefjord. The hike to Preikestolen is one of the most famous in Norway and offers stunning panoramic views from the top.
Key attractions:
Preikestolen Plateau
Lysefjord
Refsvatnet
Skjeggedal
Tau
6. Oslo
Norway’s capital is known for its modern architecture, museums, and green spaces.
Key attractions:
Vigeland Sculpture Park (Frogner Park)
The Oslo Opera House
The Viking Ship Museum
Akershus Fortress
Munch Museum
Karl Johans Gate
The Royal Palace
The National Museum
Holmenkollen Ski Jump
Bygdøy Peninsula
7. Svalbard
A remote archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, Svalbard offers a unique opportunity to see polar bears in the wild, explore glaciers, and experience the midnight sun in summer or polar nights in winter.
Key attractions:
Longyearbyen
Barentsburg
Pyramiden
Svalbard Global Seed Vault
Nordenskiöld Glacier
8. Trolltunga
One of Norway's most famous rock formations, Trolltunga (the "Troll's Tongue") juts out over a 700-meter drop. The hike to Trolltunga is long and challenging, but the reward is a spectacular view.
Key attractions:
Trolltunga Rock
Ringedalsvatnet
Tyssohallen
Skjeggedal
Folgefonna Glacier
Must-visit waterfalls, fjords, and mountains in Norway
Waterfalls:
1. Vøringsfossen – A majestic waterfall in Hardangervidda National Park.
2. Langfossen – A powerful waterfall dropping into Åkrafjord.
3. Steinsdalsfossen – Famous for the path allowing visitors to walk behind the fall.
4. Mardalsfossen – Known for its long free fall in Romsdal.
5. Kjosfossen – A scenic waterfall visible from the Flåm Railway.
6. Låtefossen – A twin waterfall near Odda with a striking appearance.
7. Tvindefossen – A picturesque waterfall near Voss, easily accessible from the road.
8. Feigefossen – A 218-meter waterfall in Luster, near Sognefjord.
9. Hengjanefossen – A waterfall that cascades into Lysefjord, visible on fjord cruises.
10. Rjoandefossen – Located near Flåm, known for its beautiful vertical drop.
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Fjords:
1. Geirangerfjord – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its cliffs and waterfalls.
2. Sognefjord – The longest and deepest fjord in Norway, surrounded by dramatic landscapes.
3. Nærøyfjord – A narrow and scenic fjord listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Lysefjord – Famous for Preikestolen and Kjerag boulder hikes.
5. Hardangerfjord – Known for its beautiful orchards and waterfalls like Vøringsfossen.
6. Aurlandsfjord – Part of the Sognefjord system, offering stunning views near Flåm.
7. Hjørundfjord – A less touristy fjord surrounded by the Sunnmøre Alps.
8. Nordfjord – Known for its glaciers and picturesque villages.
9. Trollfjord – A narrow fjord with steep cliffs, accessible only by boat.
10. Romsdalsfjord – Offering scenic views of mountains and fjord landscapes.
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Mountains:
1. Trolltunga – A famous cliff formation with breathtaking views over the Ringedalsvatnet lake.
2. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) – A flat-topped cliff with incredible views over Lysefjord.
3. Galdhøpiggen – Norway’s highest mountain, located in Jotunheimen National Park.
4. Besseggen Ridge – A scenic ridge hike in Jotunheimen, offering views of turquoise lakes.
5. Kjerag – Famous for the Kjeragbolten boulder, suspended between cliffs.
6. Romsdalseggen – A dramatic ridge with views over Romsdal valley and fjords.
7. Segla – A striking mountain on the island of Senja, offering panoramic views.
8. Dovrefjell – A mountainous area with great hiking trails and a chance to spot musk oxen.
9. Gaustatoppen – Offering expansive views across southern Norway, accessible via a scenic hike or funicular.
10. Lofoten Peaks – The jagged mountains of Lofoten offer incredible views over the archipelago.
These destinations showcase Norway’s stunning natural beauty, from cascading waterfalls to serene fjords and towering mountains.
Norway's discount cards and passes
1. Oslo Pass – This is the most popular card for tourists in Oslo. It provides free entry to more than 30 museums and attractions, free public transport, discounts on activities, restaurants, and even some tours. It’s available for 24, 48, or 72 hours.
• 24 hours: NOK 445 (adult), NOK 235 (child), NOK 335 (senior).
• 48 hours: NOK 655 (adult), NOK 325 (child), NOK 520 (senior).
• 72 hours: NOK 820 (adult), NOK 410 (child), NOK 655 (senior).
This pass includes free entry to many museums, unlimited public transport, and discounts at various restaurants.
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2. Bergen Car – Similar to the Oslo Pass, this card offers free or discounted entry to attractions and museums in Bergen, free public transport, and discounts on tours and cultural events.
• 24 hours: NOK 380 (adult), NOK 100 (child).
• 48 hours: NOK 460 (adult), NOK 130 (child).
• 72 hours: NOK 540 (adult), NOK 160 (child).
• 96 hours: NOK 620 (adult), NOK 190 (child).
This card includes free entry to museums, discounts, and public transport in the Bergen area.
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3. Tromsø Pass – This pass offers discounts on various attractions and activities in Tromsø, such as museums, tours, and cultural sites.
• Tromsø Pass Cruise: NOK 644 (adult), NOK 351 (child).
• Tromsø Pass Classic: NOK 1162 (adult), NOK 630 (child).
• Tromsø Pass Family: NOK 1420 (adult), NOK 732 (child).
• Tromsø Pass Culture: NOK 1906 (adult), NOK 935 (child).
These passes cover access to museums and attractions, as well as bus travel.
These passes are generally good value if you plan to visit multiple attractions and use public transport.
13 Day trip ideas from Oslo
1. Oslofjord Islands – Take a ferry to islands like Hovedøya or Gressholmen for a relaxing nature getaway, perfect for hiking, swimming, or picnics.
2. Drobak – A charming coastal town, known for its Christmas House and being home to the Oscarsborg Fortress.
Key attractions:
Oscarsborg Fortress
Drøbak Aquarium
Christmas House (Julehuset)
Drøbak Church
Drøbak’s Old Town
3. Lillehammer – Famous for its Olympic history and outdoor activities, including Maihaugen open-air museum.
4. Fredrikstad – Visit its well-preserved old town, a historic fortified city just a short train ride from Oslo.
Key attractions:
Gamlebyen (Old Town)
Fredrikstad Fortress
Isegran Island
Hankø Island
The Hvaler Archipelago
5. Kongsberg – Explore Norway’s mining history at the Silver Mines, or visit the Kongsberg Church.
6. Tønsberg – The oldest town in Norway, offering Viking history and coastal views.
7. Holmenkollen Ski Jump – Just outside the city, offering stunning views over Oslo and the chance to visit the ski museum.
8. Hadeland Glassworks – Learn about traditional Norwegian glassmaking and explore the galleries and shops.
9. Horten and Midgard Historical Centre – Discover Viking heritage and burial mounds at this fascinating museum.
10. Nordmarka – A vast forested area with plenty of hiking, biking, and skiing trails, easily accessible by public transport.
11. Kongsvinger Fortress (1.5 hours) – A historic fortress offering stunning views of the Glomma River.
12. Gaustatoppen (3 hours) – A stunning peak with breathtaking views; on clear days, you can see one-sixth of Norway from the summit.
13. Geilo (3 hours) – A beautiful mountain area perfect for hiking, skiing, and enjoying Norwegian nature.
Himkok: Discovering Oslo’s Jewel Among the World’s 50 Best Bars
Himkok
One of the world’s most famous bars, ranked No. 15 in 2023 and a winner of the Nikka Highest Climber Award.
Reservations: Himkok operates mainly on a walk-in basis. However, it may be possible to reserve for larger groups. Contact them via their website or social media.
Must-eat dishes, drinks, and desserts
Norwegian cuisine is deeply influenced by its natural surroundings, with fresh seafood, hearty meats, and simple flavors. Here are the must-eat dishes, drinks, and desserts from Norway:
Rakfisk
Fermented trout, typically served with flatbread, onions, and sour cream. This traditional dish is an acquired taste and is often eaten during winter celebrations.
Lutefisk
Dried fish, usually cod, soaked in a lye solution and then steamed or baked. It’s a traditional Christmas dish, often served with potatoes, bacon, and mustard.
Kjøttkaker
Norwegian meatcakes, made from minced meat mixed with flour, milk, and spices. They are served with brown sauce (gravy), potatoes, and lingonberry jam.
Smalahove
A traditional Western Norwegian dish of roasted sheep's head, usually eaten before Christmas. It's a unique cultural experience but not for the faint-hearted!
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Must-Try Drinks:
Akevitt (Aquavit)
A strong, flavored spirit, similar to Swedish aquavit but often aged in oak barrels. It’s commonly drunk during festive meals, especially with fish dishes like rakfisk and lutefisk.
Karsk
A traditional drink from Norway’s Trøndelag region, it’s a mixture of coffee and moonshine or vodka. This potent drink is popular in the colder months.
Gløgg
Like in Sweden, gløgg is a warm, spiced mulled wine enjoyed during the winter holidays.
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Must-Try Desserts:
Kransekake
A beautiful and iconic Norwegian dessert, this almond cake is shaped into concentric rings stacked to form a tower, often decorated for special occasions like Christmas and weddings.
Kvæfjordkake (Verdens Beste)
Known as the “World’s Best Cake,” this traditional cake consists of layers of meringue, sponge cake, and vanilla custard. It’s a must-try treat for cake lovers.
Risgrøt
A simple and comforting rice porridge, typically eaten during Christmas with a sprinkle of cinnamon, sugar, and a knob of butter. It’s often served with a glass of cold, red juice.
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Must-try Norwegian chocolate brands:
1. Freia – Freia is the most famous chocolate maker in Norway, known for its Milk Chocolate (Melkesjokolade), which has been a favorite since the 1960s. Another iconic product is Kvikk Lunsj, often compared to KitKat, which is a staple for Norwegians during hikes and ski trips .
2. Stratos – This chocolate bar is known for its light, bubbly texture, offering a fun and creamy chocolate experience .
3. Twist – A mix of individually wrapped chocolates with different flavors like caramel, fruit, and nuts. It’s popular for variety and sharing .
4. SMASH! – A unique snack combining salty corn chips with milk chocolate, offering an addictive sweet and salty contrast.
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Must-try Norwegian cookie brands:
1. Bixit – Oat-based cookies that are hearty and come in different varieties, often enjoyed as a snack or with coffee.
2. Gjende – Popular buttery cookies, often available in flavors like chocolate or vanilla.
3. Sætre – Known for their classic Norwegian biscuits, such as Digestive and Marie, as well as more indulgent varieties.
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Must-try Norwegian tea brands:
1. Solberg & Hansen – A premium Norwegian tea brand known for its high-quality blends, offering both classic and herbal varieties.
2. Black Cat – One of the oldest tea (and coffee) suppliers in Norway, with a wide range of traditional teas and specialty blends.
Some interesting facts about Norway
Fjord Country
Norway is famous for its breathtaking fjords—steep-sided inlets carved by glaciers. Two of the most famous, Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Midnight Sun and Polar Nights
Due to its location in the Arctic Circle, Norway experiences the phenomenon of the midnight sun in summer (24 hours of daylight) and polar nights in winter (24 hours of darkness) in its northern regions.
Home of the Vikings
Norway, along with Denmark and Sweden, was home to the Vikings, who explored, traded, and raided much of Europe during the 8th to 11th centuries. You can visit many Viking museums and historical sites across the country.
Oil-Rich Nation
Norway is one of the world’s wealthiest nations thanks to its vast oil and gas reserves in the North Sea. The revenue from oil is stored in the Government Pension Fund, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world.
Highest Human Development Index (HDI)
Norway consistently ranks at the top of the Human Development Index (HDI), which measures a country's well-being in terms of health, education, and standard of living.
Must-Bring and Wear for a (Mid-October) Campervan Trip
Norway's weather in mid-October can be even colder and more unpredictable than Sweden's. Here's what you should pack:
Clothing:
Warm layers: Even warmer layers than in Sweden are essential, including a thick waterproof jacket, multiple fleece layers, and thermal underwear.
Insulated pants: Waterproof, insulated pants are a must-have to keep your legs warm.
Comfortable shoes: Waterproof, insulated hiking boots are ideal for exploring the outdoors in cold weather.
Hats and gloves: Warm, waterproof hats and gloves are crucial for protecting your extremities.
Rain gear: A high-quality waterproof jacket and pants are essential due to frequent rain.
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Essentials for Your Campervan:
Sleeping bags: Choose extremely warm-rated sleeping bags suitable for cold Norwegian temperatures.
Heating: Consider a portable heater or ensure your campervan has a reliable heating system.
Cooking equipment: A stove, pots, pans, and utensils for preparing meals, as well as a wind shield for outdoor cooking.
Food and water: Stock up on non-perishable food items and plenty of water.
Camping supplies: A tent, sleeping pads, and camping chairs if you plan to camp outside your campervan.
First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any outdoor adventure.
Flashlights and batteries: Ensure you have enough light sources for nighttime activities.
Warm blankets: Extra blankets can be useful for added warmth in your campervan.
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Additional Tips:
Check the weather forecast: Keep an eye on weather predictions to adjust your packing accordingly.
Pack versatile clothing: Layers allow you to adjust to changing temperatures.
Consider a heater: If your campervan doesn't have a built-in heater, a portable one can be a lifesaver on cold nights.
Bring entertainment: Books, games, or a portable device can help you pass the time on rainy days.
Temperature variations: Temperatures in Norway can drop well below freezing in mid-October, especially in the mountainous regions.
Daylight hours: The days are even shorter in Norway than in Sweden during mid-October.
Camping conditions: Some campsites might be closed for the season or have limited facilities due to the harsh weather. It's advisable to check their websites or contact them in advance.
In Norway, you can generally park a campervan during the day in public parking areas unless signs state otherwise. However, for overnight parking, there are specific rules. Thanks to Norway’s “Right to Roam” (Allemannsretten), you can park and stay overnight on uncultivated land, as long as you are at least 150 meters away from the nearest house or cabin. Some restrictions apply in protected areas, and in cities or busy tourist spots, overnight parking might be limited to designated areas, like campsites or motorhome parking areas.
Make sure to follow local signs and regulations wherever you park.
Flying a Drone in Norway
In Norway, you can fly a drone weighing 249 grams in Oslo, but you must follow certain regulations set by the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority (Luftfartstilsynet). Here are some key rules to keep in mind:
1. Registration: If your drone weighs 250 grams or more, it must be registered, but since your drone is 249 grams, it does not require registration.
2. Pilot Certification: You do not need a specific certification for drones under 250 grams, but it’s important to understand safe flying practices.
3. Flight Restrictions: You must fly the drone within your line of sight, avoid flying near airports, and respect the privacy of others. Be aware of any local no-fly zones, especially in urban areas.
4. Altitude Limit: Drones should not be flown higher than 120 meters (394 feet) above ground level.
5. Insurance: While not mandatory, it’s advisable to have liability insurance to cover any potential damages.
Always check for any local regulations or updates before flying.
Must-learn basic phrases in Norway
Here are some must-learn basic phrases in Norwegian with English translations to help you navigate conversations in Norway:
Greetings and Common Phrases
Hei! – Hi! / Hello!
God morgen! – Good morning!
God kveld! – Good evening!
Ha det! – Goodbye!
Takk! – Thank you!
Tusen takk! – Thank you very much!
Vær så god. – You're welcome. / Here you go.
Unnskyld. – Excuse me. / I’m sorry.
Hvordan går det? – How are you?
Det går bra. – I'm good.
Hva heter du? – What’s your name?
Jeg heter… – My name is…
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Getting Around
Hvor er toalettet? – Where is the restroom?
Hvor mye koster det? – How much does it cost?
Kan du hjelpe meg? – Can you help me?
Jeg trenger hjelp. – I need help.
Snakker du engelsk? – Do you speak English?
Jeg forstår ikke. – I don't understand.
Kan du gjenta det? – Can you repeat that?
Hvor er…? – Where is…?
…togstasjonen? – the train station?
…bussen? – the bus?
…hotellet? – the hotel?
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Eating and Ordering
Jeg vil gjerne ha… – I would like to have…
Hva anbefaler du? – What do you recommend?
Kan jeg få regningen? – Can I get the bill?
Er det vegetarisk? – Is it vegetarian?
Skål! – Cheers!
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Politeness and Essentials
Ja – Yes
Nei – No
Kanskje – Maybe
Vær så snill. – Please.
Jeg er turist. – I’m a tourist.
Jeg liker Norge. – I like Norway.
Wild mushroom picking in Norway
In Norway, the most commonly found and edible mushrooms that foragers frequently pick include:
Chanterelles (Cantharellus cibarius) – Recognized by their bright yellow color and trumpet-like shape, chanterelles are popular due to their rich, slightly peppery flavor. They are often found in mossy forests under trees like birch and pine.
Porcini (Boletus edulis) – Also known as "penny buns" or "ceps," these mushrooms have a thick brown cap and white pores underneath. Porcini mushrooms are prized for their meaty texture and are commonly found in coniferous forests.
Hedgehog Mushrooms (Hydnum repandum) – These mushrooms are easy to identify due to their spiny underside instead of gills. They have a sweet and nutty taste and are often picked alongside chanterelles in Norwegian forests.
False Chanterelles (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca) – While not as flavorful as true chanterelles, these mushrooms are sometimes picked by foragers due to their similar appearance. However, they have a darker orange color and a different texture.
Brown Birch Bolete (Leccinum scabrum) – This mushroom grows near birch trees, with a brown cap and a tall, sturdy stem. It has a mild flavor and is often used in soups and stews.
Yellowfoot (Craterellus tubaeformis) – Known as "winter chanterelle," this small mushroom has a brownish-yellow color and grows in damp mossy areas. It has a delicate, earthy flavor and is highly prized by foragers.
Horn of Plenty (Craterellus cornucopioides) – Sometimes called "black trumpets," these mushrooms have a dark, funnel-shaped appearance. They offer a strong, rich flavor that works well in sauces and soups.
Amethyst Deceiver (Laccaria amethystina) – These striking purple mushrooms grow in both coniferous and deciduous forests. They are mild in flavor and are often mixed with other mushrooms in dishes.
Black Trumpet (Craterellus cornucopioides) – These distinctive, dark, funnel-shaped mushrooms are a relative of chanterelles and have a unique smoky flavor. Despite their color, they are easy to spot once you know what to look for.
Russula (Russula spp.) - While many Russula species are edible, they can be challenging to distinguish from inedible or mildly toxic ones. The edible ones tend to have a mild taste when the flesh is sampled raw.
Lactarius Deliciousus (Saffron Milk Cap) - This mushroom is easily recognized by its orange color and the characteristic orange milk it exudes when cut. It is commonly found under pines.
These mushrooms are most commonly picked in the autumn months (August to October). Always be cautious while foraging as poisonous mushrooms are also widespread in Norway.