Travel Tips
Norway
Deep fjords, mountain railways and Arctic skies make Norway one of the most scenic countries anywhere.
What I love about Norway
People often ask me what I love most about a country. Every country has its good and bad sides, but here I share the positives I found on my travels.
The fjords, landscapes you can only see in Norway.
Norway also became independent from Sweden peacefully in 1905, unlike so many borders in the world that were drawn through war. Today the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo, while the other Nobel Prizes are awarded in Stockholm.
- Capital
- Oslo
- Currency
- Norwegian krone (NOK)
- Language
- Norwegian
- Best overall
- June to August, or September to March for the northern lights
- Emergency
- Police 112, fire 110, ambulance 113
- Electricity
- 230V, plug types C and F
Top Destinations
This country is in the Schengen Area. Many visitors can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, while others need a Schengen visa. Check the current rules for your passport, including the EES and ETIAS entry systems. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Summer is best for hiking and fjords, with very long days. Winter is prime for northern lights in the north.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Bergen
A colorful wooden harbor and a gateway to the fjords.
Geirangerfjord
A dramatic fjord with waterfalls and viewpoints.
Flam Railway
A steep, scenic train ride from the mountains to the fjord.
Lofoten Islands
Red fishing cabins below sharp peaks.
Tromso
An Arctic city for northern lights and midnight sun.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 2 Oslo
- Days 3 to 4 Bergen, via the Bergen Railway and Flam
- Days 5 to 6 Geirangerfjord
- Days 7 to 9 Lofoten Islands or Tromso, by air
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Combine trains, ferries and buses, or fly the long distances.
- Allow extra time for ferries and mountain roads. Some close in winter.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Norway is close to cashless and expensive. Budget extra for food and alcohol.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Fresh salmon and other seafood.
- Brunost: sweet brown cheese.
- Fish soup in coastal towns.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Check conditions before hiking, and tell someone your plan.
- Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly.
Planning a trip to Norway?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.