Norway has to be one of the most magical places. I mean, spectacular fjords, colorful fishing villages, Viking history, trolls and folklore, the Northern Lights, the midnight sun, breathtaking scenic drives and some of the best hiking on the planet… what more could you ask for?!
If you’re planning a trip to this spectacular part of the world, here are 10 of the best things to do in Norway. Whether you’re visiting the country in summer or winter, you’ll find what you’re looking for on this list.
1. Take a cruise through the fjords
If you’re planning to explore Norway by sea, a cruise will give you a front-row seat to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Did you know that there are more than 1,700 fjords in Norway?!
Southern Norway, in particular, is woven with fjords and waterways that cut deep into the land. While you can take these roads or cross them by ferry, taking a Cruise in the Norwegian fjords allows you to glide straight into the heart of this landscape, passing steep cliffs, waterfalls and colorful villages.
Many of Norway’s most iconic viewpoints rise above the fjords, offering unforgettable perspectives from land… but from the water, the scale seems just as impressive, with imposing rock walls rising almost vertically from the sea, a perspective that only a fjord cruise can fully capture.
Norway cruises are for anyone who loves the outdoors. Imagine sailing legendary waterways like Hardangerfjord and the crown jewel, Geirangerfjord – it’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience Norway.
2. Go dog sledding
Being from Canada, I’m used to snow (and I’m not a huge fan of it!), but taking a trip through snowy lands while being pulled by adorable dogs? This is definitely something I might like!
A dog sled is a light vehicle mounted on runners and pulled by a team of dogs on snow and ice, called “mushing”. Once essential for transporting supplies and traveling long distances, dog sledding has now become a popular activity and sport among locals and tourists.
This much appreciated trip starts in Tromsø and takes you through picturesque landscapes. You can just sit back and enjoy the view, or try steering the sleigh yourself! Click here for more details.
3. Witness the Northern Lights
It’s a must-see when visiting a northern hemisphere destination near the Arctic – and Norway is no exception. With the long, dark winter nights, the spectacle here is spectacular.
If you don’t know what they are, the Northern Lights, or Northern Lights, are one of Norway’s most incredible natural wonders. They form when charged particles from the sun interact with gases in Earth’s atmosphere, lighting up the sky with ribbons of green, purple, and sometimes red.
During this tripyour guide will know the best places to go to see this show. Even if the weather is cloudy in Tromsø, they will travel to another region. They know the best spots, so having a guide is recommended. Click here for more details.
4. Go hiking
If you love hiking and visit Norway during the summer months, you’re in for a treat! The landscapes here are wild, spectacular and many trails are offered.
One of the best things about hiking in Norway is the diversity of hikes on offer. In the western part of the country, you can hike above glacier-carved fjords, admire the alpine landscape to the east, and stroll along coastal paths to the north with views of the Arctic Ocean.
Some of the most popular hikes in the country are Trolltunga, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten – all of which lead to viewpoints that will blow your mind!
Check All trails for hikes that you can do independently across the country. Of course, always wear appropriate clothing, hiking shoes, and bring enough water and snacks for the trail.
If you prefer, you can always join a tour with a professional guide to ensure a safe trip. This very popular tour picks you up in Stavanger and takes you to Pulpit Rock and back. It’s a 7 hour day with unreal views along the way. Click here for more details.
5. Learn about (and taste) Norwegian cuisine!
If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll love exploring all the culinary delights Norway has to offer. Norwegian cuisine is deeply connected to the landscape, seasons and traditions of the country. The emphasis is on using simple ingredients…done well.
Fresh seafood is in the spotlight here, particularly salmon, cod, arctic char and shellfish, all taken straight from the cold, clean waters. For red meat, you’ll find lamb, reindeer and game (like deer), all of which reflect Norway’s rural and arctic heritage.
Not surprisingly due to the location and climate, you’ll also find hearty foods like potatoes, root vegetables, flatbreads, and rich dairy products including brown cheese (brown cheese), which has a sweet, caramel-like flavor.
Traditional dishes tend to be rustic and comforting, but you’ll also find plenty of modern Norwegian restaurants serving cuisine that blends these classic ingredients with contemporary techniques.
A great way to experience it is on a Oslo food tour. On this tour you will walk a total of 3 km, which is great because you will eat a lot during your trip at 3 different restaurants! The menu looks amazing. Click here to learn more and reserve your place.
6. Join a walking tour
This is something we always do when we visit a new country. It’s the best way to learn a little more about the history, get a lay of the land, and discover the best places to eat and drink from your local guide.
You will find them in each of the main cities in Norway. If you wish, you can join a free walking tour (which isn’t actually “free”, it’s tip-based), or you can pay a very affordable amount and enjoy a small group tour.
If you are in Bergen, take advantage This affordable visit; if you are in Oslo, this walking tour won’t break the bank; And this walking tour in Tromsø even includes a cinnamon bun!
7. Chase waterfalls
As you can see, there are so many beautiful places to visit and things to do in Norway. Visiting waterfalls is another adventure you won’t want to miss – especially the spectacular Vøringfossen waterfall.
The waterfall plunges almost 600 feet into the Måbødalen Valley below! Standing on the viewing platforms or crossing the suspension bridge that stretches above the canyon, you really feel how wild this landscape is.
The good news is that the waterfall is not your reward after a very long hike, it is accessible with just a little effort – perfect for those days when you need to rest your legs!
You can visit yourself, but if you don’t have your own vehicle or prefer to go in a group, this trip covers waterfall and other amazing destinations. Click here for more details.
8. Spend time with the reindeer
If you’ve ever wanted to get closer to Rudolph, Norway is the perfect place! From Tromso you can take a tour to learn about reindeer, have a sleigh pulled by them and feed them. Did I mention there are 300 reindeer in this herd?!
But beyond simply observing reindeer, this experience consists of learning from Sámi the people themselves – who are the indigenous people of Norway. Traditionally, many Sámi engaged in reindeer herding, fishing, hunting, and small-scale farming, with reindeer herding now becoming one of the best-known aspects of Sámi life.
This is real culture, not a spectacle, and choosing Sami-led experiences like this means the stories are shared with honesty, respect and pride.
During this group tripyou’ll join your guide for reindeer sledding and feeding, before heading to a traditional tent for a hot meal and conversation and stories with locals and your guide.
9. Go fishing
Whether you come in summer or winter, fishing is one of the top things to do in Norway. And since the country is very coastal, this is no surprise.
If you fish during the summer months, you’ll have all day to do so – you can literally fish at any time. In the northern part of Norway, such as Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands, the sun does not set from May to July!
Expect to catch cod, mackerel, pollock and halibut if you’re deep sea fishing, and if you’re on the rivers you can catch salmon.
Most people don’t travel with fishing gear, so if you want to experience fishing in Norway (without bringing all the gear), you can join a tour that offers it all.
On this polar fishing adventure from Tromso you will have a real Arctic fishing experience. The guides head for Kvaløystraumen or Ryøyastraumen, areas that offer strong currents and big fish.
On this popular trip Departing from Tromso, you’ll equip yourself with warm gear and head out to sea. The cool thing about this trip is that you get to eat what you catch – right away. They make freshly made fish soup on the boat! It’s the perfect way to stay warm.
10. Ride a bike
During the warmer months, cycling is a great way to explore Norway. If you just want to explore the cities you can rent a bike during your stay, or if you are in Oslo you can join this 3 hour cycling trip which takes you to all the main highlights of the city (City Hall, Royal Palace, Frogner Park, etc.).
If you come in winter, you can still get around on 2 wheels with this fat bike trip in and around Tromso! Everything is included and it’s a fun thing to do in Norway in winter.
In conclusion
If you’re ready to get active f on vacation, there is no shortage of adventurous outdoor activities. If you want a mix of adventure, nature and relaxation, a cruise might be for you. If you prefer to just wander around towns and enjoy good food, that’s available too!
Whether you visit in summer or winter, Norway will surprise you at every turn. As you can see, there is something for every type of traveler. Scandinavian country.