Norway Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Norway

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End the adventure with three nights in the Lofoten Islands

Best of Summer in Norway Tour - 12 Days

Check off a number of stunning summer gems in southern and northern Norway with this 12-day adventure. After kicking off in Oslo, you'll take a train and ferry to Balestrand to kayak in the Sognefjord. From here, ferry to Bergen and visit a glacier before boarding a Hurtigruten cruise for several days of fjords, charming ports, and rare wildlife under long days of sunshine. Finally, make your way to the Lofoten Islands and explore a series of gorgeous islands by rental car at your own pace.

The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord where you'll spend three nights

Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 12 Days

Steer a relaxing 12-day course through the highs and lows of Norway's spectacular landscapes from Jotunheimen National Park to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore the wonders around you. Buckle up and pack your camera—this is going to be one gorgeous drive!

Bergen's waterfront UNESCO World Heritage Site after a snowfall

Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø Winter Adventure - 7 Days

Escape the summer crowds with this winter trip highlighting both southern and northern Norway. Starting in Oslo—Europe's fastest-growing capital—you'll take one of the steepest trains in the world towards the fjords. Then train to Bergen, a UNESCO-listed city loaded with culture and restaurants. Finish with two nights at a resort in the Arctic where you'll dog sled and search for the Northern Lights.

A branch of the Sognefjord in early autumn

Classic Autumn Fjord Adventure - 7 Days

This classic and incredibly scenic itinerary checks off several key Norwegian highlights in the span of a week after the summer crowds have left. Start off in Europe's fastest growing capital with a day in Oslo. From here, travel via the Flåm Railway, one of the steepest trains in the world, and stay a night in Aurland before taking a cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. You'll then travel to Bergen and spend a few days exploring this colorful wharf city surrounded by seven mountains before returning to Oslo for one more night on the town.

Snowcapped mountains in the Lofoten Islands

Romantic Autumn Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 9 Days

This autumn-themed trip for two explores Norway's snowy Arctic with a variety of travel modes and cozy accommodations. Start with great culture and restaurants in Tromsø before heading to Lyngenfjord, where you'll stay in a glass-topped igloo—prime for spotting the Northern Lights. Then, take an overnight cruise to the Lofoten Islands where you'll pick up a rental car to explore the dramatic landscapes at your own pace.

One of many trails in the mountainous area near Geilo

Ultimate Summer Hiking Adventure in Norway - 20 Days

This 20-day Nordic journey is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who want to maximize their time in the country's stunning mountains and fjords. Start off with an authentic cabin-to-cabin trek in a wilderness area halfway between Norway's two largest cities: Oslo and Bergen. You'll stay in Norway's great hiking lodges with fellow trekkers, ending each day in a different staffed abode that serves dinner and breakfast. The latter hiking portion of this trip takes place in the Lusterfjord where you'll stay in a charming guesthouse with access to 30 hiking trails in the area. It's not all about hiking, though: you'll get urban culture, restaurants, and nightlife in the two aforementioned cities to round out this awesome adventure.

Senja offers plenty of drool-worthy vantage points

Senja Island Summer Hiking Excursion - 5 Days

Hiking enthusiasts who seek jaw-dropping scenery will find plenty to gawk at on this five-day road trip. Norway’s second largest island, called Senja, is just as magnificent as the more traveled Lofoten islands. Driving from Tromsø, you'll make your way to the island for two full days of hiking. Finish with a night in Norway's buzzing capital to round out this awesome adventure.

Senja's craggy peaks attract photographers from around the globe

Tromsø & Senja Winter Excursion - 5 Days

This quick-paced yet relaxed Nordic itinerary hits two key spots above the Arctic Circle for travelers keen on skipping high season crowds. You'll start in Tromsø with two days to explore the 'Paris of the North' by foot. From here, travel to Senja, Norway's 2nd largest island, where a local guide who will show you otherworldly coastline, wildlife, fishing villages, and inland lakes and forests. Finish with a Hurtigruten ride through the Norwegian Sea to complete this off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Autumn Road Trip in Norway's Arctic - 7 Days

This relaxed road trip explores an area of Norway's Arctic rarely visited by tourists. Start in fjord-side Alta and drive inland to experience indigenous culture while staying in a cozy wilderness lodge. You'll then make your way toward the northernmost tip of the continent for hiking trails, colorful villages, and breathtaking views. Spend each night looking for early glimpses of the northern lights—they usually start in October.

A summer evening in the village of Reine

Summer Road Trip: Norway's West Coast - 7 Days

This lightly-trafficked, summertime road trip is a great way to experience Northern Norway's stunning coastline from late May to early September. The adventure starts with a half-day in Tromsø—"Paris of the North"—before you continue to Sommarøy, the first of many islands. You'll then take car ferries to Senja island and Andoya island to enjoy remote nature where fewer travelers venture. Finish the adventure in Lofoten's stunning, and yes, more popular, islands for hiking and kayaking while based in the charming village of Reine.

Stay a night along the Geirangerfjord between Bergen and Trondheim

Summer Road Trip: Oslo, Bergen & Trondheim - 12 Days

This journey highlights Norway's three biggest cities with scenic detours along the way. Start off in sophisticated Oslo before traveling by train and ferry to UNESCO-listed Bergen. From here, drive through fjord-side villages to Ålesund, known for its art nouveau architecture, and Kristiansund. Finish off in Trondheim with colorful wooden homes, café culture, and tree-lined streets for cycling.

A pretty snowfall in the historic waterfront city of Bergen

Norway in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December attracts Christmas and New Year travelers looking to spend the holidays in Norway's festive villages and cities—or perhaps the snowy north, where you can search for the northern lights, hit the slopes, or take a reindeer safari. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Autumnal colors and crisp air in Oslo's Vigeland Sculpture Park

Norway in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Take advantage of the last fall colors in November, a month offering fewer crowds, northern lights, great whale watching, and the cozy feeling of "kos"—the Norwegian version of the Danish "hygge." There's even a culinary festival featuring a favorite local delicacy. Read on to learn more about visiting Norway in November.

Take in the sweeping views of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord

Norway in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is an ideal time of year to enjoy Norway's colorful fall scenery in peace, as travelers are few and far between. This is also when days get shorter, temperatures drop, and the northern lights begin to reappear above the Arctic Circle. Find out what to do and where to go with this monthly guide.

September means crowd-free beaches north of the Arctic Circle

Norway in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September marks the end of the high season, with mild temperatures perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and iconic scenery without the crowds. This is also a great month to visit Bergen for its annual food festival. Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in Norway this month.

Take a guided kayaking tour in the western fjords during the warmer summer months

Norway in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Get here while it's still hot—August is the last full month of Norway's busy and expensive high season. With that comes spectacular weather, a sporty vibe from tourists and locals who spend as much time outdoors as possible, and loads of fun events like Bergen's Beer Festival and Oslo's Jazz Festival. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Pulpit Rock is a popular hike during summer months with incredible fjord views

Norway in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is high season for Norway. Expect long days of gorgeous summer weather, a lively vibe not only from foreign visitors but locals who spend as much time outside as possible, and loads of fun events like Scandinavia's largest food festival. This monthly guide will tell you what to do and where to go (and how to beat the inevitable crowds).

This is as close to a sunset as it gets in the Lofoten Islands during June

Norway in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

It's called the Land of the midnight sun for a reason, and June is the month that celebrates the longest day of the year—a time when the sun barely sets in southern Norway (and doesn't at all above the Arctic Circle). Thus begins, arguably, the best season of the year to experience Norway. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Norway's many waterfalls, like Huldefoss, are rushing during this time of year

Norway in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the best time to visit Norway if you want to feel like a local. A month ahead of the summer crowds, you can enjoy relaxed sightseeing, long days of bright-green scenery, and rushing waterfalls in the fjords from snow melting in the mountains. This is also the month of Norway's biggest holiday, Constitution Day, with celebrations all over the country.

Cruise the Sognefjord for pretty views of budding wildflowers and coastal villages

Norway in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Norway's first month of spring brings warming temperatures, melting snow, and budding blossoms. This is a great time to get outdoors and hit the open road as the entire country comes of out hibernation for Easter tourism—yet it's still more affordable and less crowded than summer. Find out what to do and where to go with this April guide.

Sunset from above in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund

Norway in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Out of the dark and into the light: Travelers to Norway in March will catch the earliest glimpses of spring, and with that, longer daylight hours. This is a great month to hit the uncrowded slopes and festivals, explore the cities, and catch the northern lights before they hibernate until October.

Norway in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Norway's last full month of winter is a spectacular, snow-laden paradise with fun outdoor activities and local festivals, as well as fewer foreign travelers and lower prices. February is also a great time to catch the northern lights before they disappear in the spring. Read on to learn more.

Catch the northern lights in Norway's Arctic region

Norway in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January in Norway is a bona fide winter wonderland with snowy activities, fewer crowds, and lower costs than other times of the year. This is also one of the best months for viewing the northern lights above the Arctic Circle. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

7 National Parks to Visit in Norway

Norway has no less than 40 national parks spread across the mainland and the islands of Svalbard. Don't know where to begin? Get started with this list—you'll get to choose between Ice Age glaciers, verdant marshland, extinct volcanoes, and Norway's tallest peaks.

The Nordfjord between Ålesund and Bergen

Western Norway's Rivers, Islands & Fjords - 11 Days

Traveling by train, boat, and coastal steamer, this summertime tour covers areas of Western Norway that are often overlooked by tourists. Start with a local tour of Oslo before boating along the River Rauma to Ålesund, known for its Art Nouveau architecture. From there, bike and hike on coastal islands, explore bustling Bergen, and ferry through both the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord.

Tromsø Winter Adventure - 6 Days

This exciting and less-traveled itinerary takes you into Norway's boreal territory for spectacular snowcapped scenery in the Arctic region. Base yourself in the quietly sophisticated city of Tromsø (Northern Norway's largest), where you can sled with huskies and reindeer during the day and chase the Northern Lights after dark. At the end of the adventure, you'll take a guided overnight excursion in the Arctic wilderness before returning to 'Paris of the North' for one more night on the town.

Multi-Day Dogsledding Adventure from Tromsø - 7 Days

This arctic itinerary starts in the city of Tromsø before five days of adventure in Northern Norway, Finland, and Sweden. With the help of your private guide, get to know your team of huskies by name, drive your own sled, and enjoy traditional meals around the campfire. Fall asleep each night in traditional Sami tents—or stay up to look for the Northern Lights.

Picturesque villages in the Lofoten Islands

Ultimate Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 12 Days

This epic trip through Norway's wintry north includes a mix of travel modes and activities unique to the Arctic. Your adventure begins in the exciting capital of Oslo followed by the UNESCO-listed village of Røros where you'll dogsled in the mountains. From here, head to the historic city of Trondheim followed by a flight to Tromsø for an overnight in the wilderness. Cap it off with a coastal steamer ride to the Lofoten Islands to snorkel with whales and see the Northern Lights by horseback.

Hidden Gems of Western Norway - 6 Days

Check off two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, peaceful villages, and dramatic vistas on this self-drive tour through Western Norway. Kicking off in seaside Bergen, you'll make your way through the Nordfjord, Sognefjord, and Lusterfjord for hiking, history, and plenty of scenery—all while staying in some of Norway's best family-run hotels.

A Northern Lights display in the Lofoten Islands

Ultimate Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 11 Days

Ready for a wintry Northern Norway adventure? On this 11-day itinerary, you'll dogsled in the mountains, visit Røros and Trondheim, and stay overnight at a local farm. Then, take a coastal steamer to the dramatic Lofoten Islands where you'll snorkel with whales (yes, even in winter) and see the Northern Lights by horseback.

Explore the Aurlandsfjord (a branch of the Sognefjord) before ferrying to Bergen

Norway's Cities, Mountains & Fjords - 6 Days

This fast-paced adventure covers several Nordic highlights in less than a week. Start off in Europe's fastest-growing capital and hit the ground running as you explore hip neighborhoods and cafés. Next, take a train to the mountain village of Geilo, near two national parks, before continuing to the Sognefjord. End the adventure in Bergen—a UNESCO-listed seaside city surrounded by seven mountains.

Get behind the wheel for stunning vistas, where driving is part of the adventure

Norway Mountains & Fjords Road Trip - 8 Days

Steer a relaxing weeklong course through the highs and lows of Norway's spectacular landscapes: from the dizzying zig-zag heights of the Trollstigen (Troll's Ladder) to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore the wonders around you. Buckle up and pack your camera—this is going to be one gorgeous drive!

Take in the vistas of the Hardangerfjord, near Eidfjord

Oslo to Bergen Scenic Road Trip - 6 Days

Perfect for families, this summer adventure combines exploration of Norway's two largest cities with a natural getaway, including a visit to Vøringsfossen Falls and its dramatic 600-foot drop. Begin in modern Oslo before driving westward to Eidfjord, home to the stunning Hardangervidda National Park. Top it off with a visit to charming Bergen, the historic Hanseatic city known as the gateway to the fjords.

Climb to Preikestolen, or 'Pulpit Rock'—a steep cliff above the Lysefjorden

Norwegian Fjord Road Trip - 11 Days

This active itinerary visits the best of Norway's fjords with plenty of chances to work up a sweat. See Bergen like a local before driving to Stavanger and beyond for endless scenery, hiking, and waterfall photo ops. Stop at villages along the Sognefjord—Norway's longest and deepest fjord—before visiting the glaciers of Jotunheimen National Park.

You'll have three days to get to know your own team of huskies

Norway Dogsledding Adventure - 6 Days

For dog lovers, this unique, hands-on experience in Norway's Finnmark County can't be beaten. You'll start off with two days in Alta for a chance to explore this small coastal city and take part in wintry activities before heading out for three days in the Arctic wilderness. With the help of your private guide, you'll get to know the Huskies by name, drive your own sleigh, and enjoy traditional meals (some served over a campfire). In the evenings, participate in taking care of the dogs before you fall to sleep in cozy cabins while searching for the Northern Lights.

Winter wonderland scenery in Northern Norway

Luxury Arctic Experience in Alta - 6 Days

The town of Alta lies in Norway's northernmost district, above the Arctic Circle, making it a prime location for winter fun. On this seasonal jaunt, you'll partake in dog-sledding, skiing, and other snow activities with views of mountain plateaus bathed in a brilliant blue light (distinctive to this part of Norway). At night, spend your evenings searching for the Northern Lights from cozy igloo hotels and luxury lavvu tents.

Oslo, Bergen & Southern Norway - 11 Days

This relaxing journey loops around Southern Norway to key summer spots for the ultimate mix of nature, history, and culture. Take a local tour of Bergen, visit the charming towns and islands along Southern Norway's coast, get to know Oslo, and take a scenic ride on the famous Flåm Railway. End your trip with a memorable ferry ride through Norway's longest and deepest fjord.

How kimkim Trips Work in Norway

When it comes to visiting Norway's fjords, cities, and hiking trails, one size does not fit all. In fact, it's the perfect destination for an adventure customized to your interests and tastes. Here’s some insight into how kimkim accomplishes that and helps you plan and book your dream trip.

Scenery on the banks of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord

Multi-Fjord Adventure in Norway - 7 Days

This week-long adventure checks off several fjords and two cities using a variety of travel modes. Start with a day in Bergen on the Sognefjord before driving to the heart of the Hardangerfjord. Enjoy free time for kayaking and hiking to waterfalls, and then ferry through the Nærøyfjord to Aurlandsfjord. Finish the trip with a scenic train ride to Europe's fastest growing capital for cultural sites and sophisticated dining options.

Get plenty of fjord-side scenery in the Hardanger region

Oslo, Bergen & the Hardangerfjord - 8 Days

Check out spectacular Norwegian scenery via the nation's efficient network of ferries, trains, and buses on this 8-day tour. Start with a day in Oslo before making your way to Eidfjord, a village right on the Hardangerfjord. Then, ferry to Utne (another beautiful town on the fjord) for more outdoor activities before finishing the week in seaside Bergen—a UNESCO-listed city known for its seven surrounding mountains.

Preparing the sled in the Norwegian wilderness

Norway Dogsledding Adventure - 5 Days

This wintry experience in Norway's Finnmark region starts with a night in Alta before three days of dogsledding in the Arctic wilderness. With the help of a private guide, you'll get to know the huskies by name and drive your own sleigh before falling asleep in cozy cabins—or staying up to search for the Northern Lights.

A sunset ferry cruises the Hardangerfjord

Bergen, Flåm & the Hardangerfjord - 5 Days

This five-day jaunt highlights Bergen, where you'll explore hilly streets, UNESCO-listed architecture, and surrounding mountains on your own and with a local guide. Take a day-trip through the Hardangerfjord to a manor in Rosendal, ride the scenic Flåm Railway, and ferry through the longest fjord in Norway—all while returning to the city each night to enjoy a lively restaurant scene.

Norway Arctic Experience in Alta - 7 Days

Located in the northernmost county of Norway (Finnmark), the city of Alta lies in an area with a relatively mild climate. With this winter-themed adventure, you'll meet huskies and reindeer, see UNESCO-protected rock carvings, experience Sami culture, and enjoy snow activities. Easily reachable by plane, the area offers forests, mountain plateaus, and coastal landscapes bathed in distinctive blue light—perfect for star gazing and searching for the Northern Lights.

The 6 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Lapland & Northern Norway

With activities like dogsledding, whale safaris, and hunting for the northern lights, the Lappland and Northern Norway region is a natural destination for travelers with kids. Most area lodging readily caters to groups and families—here are four of the best options, from Tromsø hotels to traditional tents in the wilderness.

6 Best Cafés in Bergen

Laid back, charming, and full of students, Bergen is a great city for hanging out over a cup of coffee. You can expect an unpretentious café scene with a clientele to match. This list of Bergen's best includes both trendy newcomers and historic establishments—a perfect excuse to check out more than one.

Polar Bears, Puffins, and More: Tips for Viewing Wildlife in Norway

Norway is home to untamed wilderness, and its animal inhabitants—from reindeer to humpback whales—are some of the country's star attractions. It can take a little planning to come face-to-face with them, and usually lots of patience, but encountering these rare species is a great reward. Here’s your ultimate guide to spotting Norwegian wildlife.

Woman kayaking near Jostedalsbreen glacier

Getting Off the Beaten Path in the Fjordkysten & Nordfjord Region

Fjordkysten & Nordfjord, just north of Bergen, is where Fjord Norway still hangs onto its roots. This region is where mountains and glaciers scratch the sky and locals are counted in the tens of thousands—in other words, the perfect place to get off the beaten path.

Tips for Visiting Southern Norway: The Norwegian Riviera

Southern Norway is a nature lover’s paradise, and the region's nickname—the "Norwegian Riviera"—is perfectly suited to the waterfront towns that dot Norway's southernmost stretch of coast. Here are some tips for making the most of your stay.

A colorful row of restaurants and cafés in Oslo's Karl Johans gate

8 Best Cafés in Oslo

Oslo residents have a knack for making their indoor spaces cozy and welcoming—just as you'd expect from a country where chilly weather dominates for much of the year. These warm interiors extend to the city's chic cafés, and no matter where you are in Norway's capital, great coffee in a sleek setting is always just a few minutes away.

The 5 Best Family Friendly Hotels in Oslo

You'd be hard-pressed to find a European capital more suitable for families and kids than Oslo. A number of hotels cater to parents of both small children and teens—with the right lodging, you'll feel right at home in this booming heart of Scandinavia.

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