Considering its well-earned reputation for dramatic fjords and steep mountains, it probably comes as no shock that hiking is pretty much a national pastime in Norway. With hundreds if not thousands of options to choose from, we’ve put together a list of the most spectacular day hikes, from north to south and everywhere in between.
The Lofoten Islands is one of the most popular destinations in Norway. The moment you arrive, you'll understand why, as this stunning archipelago features jagged mountain peaks, colorful hamlets that cling to rocks, and a coastline dotted with islands. If you're looking for outdoor adventures, this is the place for you! Enjoy scenic drives, kayaking, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, sailing, and more.
A thousand years ago, Norway's influence stretched across all of Europe — did you know that even Dublin was a Viking town? Now, its surprisingly global past can still be seen in its landscape, museums, and churches. Here are just a few of Norway's best historical experiences.
Chasing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and something that draws many travelers to Norway's upper reaches. The country is the perfect setting to spot the colorful aurora borealis. This bucket-list experience can be easily combined with snowshoeing, dogsledding, reindeer feedings, cultural activities, or simply relaxing under the polar night sky.
Set in Southern Norway, Stavanger offers the best of all worlds: stunning natural scenery, picturesque coastlines, charming historic streets, connections to cities like Oslo and Bergen, and easy access to the fjord region. The city is an excellent hub for some of the most popular activities in Norway, including hikes to Kjerag and Pulpit Rock, cruises in Lysefjord, and day trips to charming towns like Flørli.
Many visitors plan an entire trip to Norway for its famed fjord region, which offers various experiences, such as fjord cruises, kayaking excursions, hikes, biking trails, scenic lookouts, historic train routes, wildlife viewing, waterfalls, glaciers, and national parks. You can explore charming wharf villages, peruse museums like the Glacier Museum, or find old wooden stave churches.
Norway is one of the most scenic countries in the world, with over 60,000 miles of coastline, towering mountain peaks, incredible fjord landscapes, endless islets, and a mix of marine wildlife. So if you're looking for a trip that will take your breath away, Norway is it. Discover the unique beauty of the Arctic Circle, explore the dense forests and tall cliffs of the fjords, and embrace some of the country's famous scenic viewpoints.
Norway is an outdoor paradise, and one of the most popular activities is hiking through the lush forests, jagged mountain peaks, and rocky fjords. From Troll's Tongue to Pulpit Rock, Norway is home to famous hikes that offer outstanding views of the country's iconic landscapes. You don't have to be an experienced trekker to enjoy the scenery, either. You'll find various trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, for all interests.
Norway has a unique culture, influenced by its centuries-old history and distinct geographic location. You'll find bustling cities with fascinating origins, a quaint culture in fjord villages and coastal fishing towns, and unique customs like dogsledding and reindeer rearing, and mountainside farming. Not to mention, a thrilling Viking history that ties it all together.
Tromsø is Norway's "Gateway to the Arctic," as the city sits above the Arctic Circle and offers easy access to the renowned Lofoten Islands and the country's northernmost reaches. But despite being so remote, the city is a vibrant, lively metropolis, lovingly referred to as the "Paris of the North." Enjoy the annual Bukta open-air music festival or visit one of the famed breweries. Discover the area's wildlife with whale safaris or watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky on a dinner cruise.
Dogsledding is one of those quintessential Norwegian activities that you can enjoy throughout the country's northern reaches in wintertime. From the charming eastern village of Røros to the city of Tromsø or the northern hub of Alta, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy this cultural experience. Even in the summer months, you can still hike with the Huskies and learn about their lives outside of winter.
As an idyllic and colorful harbor city, Bergen is one of the most popular hubs in Norway. It sits on the North Sea coast with access to the county's famous fjord region. But Bergen is much more than just a hub, as it's filled with famous sites, including the historic Bryggen area, Gamle Bergen, several museums, art galleries, churches, and abundant Viking heritage.
It's no secret that Norway is an outdoor oasis offering every type of recreation you can think of! From climbing some of the most famous trails in the world (like Troll's Tongue) to kayaking through the iconic fjords, there's an outdoor adventure in every corner. And since the entire landscape changes with the seasons, you have a new set of active experiences for each visit.
Oslo is Norway's buzzy, multicultural capital, known for its eco-friendly initiatives and innovation. It houses some of the country's best museums and parks, making it well worth a stop. You'll find the renowned Viking Ship Museum, the Nobel Peace Center, art galleries featuring Edvard Munch, and the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. A vibrant city, Oslo draws crowds of all interests and ages.
This overnight excursion leaves from the city of Tromsø to a Sami camp in the nearby wilderness. The Sami are a northern Norwegian indigenous group who live on this part of the tundra above the Arctic Circle and enjoy a humble way of life. One cultural tradition that's an integral part of their...
Enjoy a scenic fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen. You'll sail through the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord while taking in some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. The Aurlandsfjord is known for being one of the most picturesque in Norway, while the Nærøyfjord is known for its steep...
There are few better places to enjoy an outdoor excursion than around the Hjørundfjord. This 20-mile-long (33 km) arm of the Storfjord is located in the Sunnmøre Alps and is surrounded by green valleys and jagged mountain peaks. The Hjørundfjord is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful...
Jostedalsbreen National Park is home to the largest glacier in Norway (and mainland Europe). It's so big, in fact, that it covers half the entire surface of this 510-square-mile (1,310-square-km) national park and divides two of the world's longest fjords: the Nordfjord and Sognefjord. The area...
The Sognefjord isn't nicknamed the "king of the fjords" for nothing. This is Norway's deepest and longest fjord, stretching 205 km (127 miles) from just north of Bergen, on the west coast, to Jotunheimen National Park. There are many arms to the Sognefjord, including the UNESCO World Heritage...
Located in the far north of Norway, above the Arctic Circle, you'll find the island of Senja in Troms County. This is the second-largest island in the country and is known for its untamed natural beauty. It's nestled among the coastal mountains dominating the North Atlantic and the green birch...
Let a local help you discover Bergen's historic Alrekstaðir, the Norse King's residence during the kingdom of Norway. The old estate sits dramatically at the base of Ulriken, one of the seven mountains surrounding the city. You’ll first follow your guide through Bergen, exploring the cultural...
The city of Stavanger is the jumping-off point for excursions into the Lysefjord, one of the most stunning fjords in a country abounding with them. The Lysefjord stretches for 26 miles (42 km) to the east of Stavanger, and its a prime destination for any number of outdoor activities. Hiking is...
This tour features a lovely cruise from Bergen to Rosendal, a small village on the southern shore of the Hardangerfjord, which is known as the "queen of the fjords." The journey isn't short on scenery either, as the ship sails through the fjords of Bergen and abounds with spectacular views of...
Oslo, the capital of Norway, is a city of endless possibilities. Located between the water and evergreen forests, it takes a mere 30 minutes to travel from one end to the other by metro. It's a metropolis known for its rich history and museums, some of which celebrate the macabre works of the...
With about 300,000 residents, Bergen is the second largest city in Norway. Rich in culture and seafaring history, this walkable city boasts a vast selection of cultural and outdoorsy activities. On a guided tour you'll get the highlights as you ride the Fløibanen funicular elevator (or hike the...
Located outside the small village of Skjeggedal (in Hordaland County, western Norway) is Trolltunga, otherwise known as the "troll's tongue." This is no mythical creature—rather, it's a vantage point situated 1,100 meters (3,608 feet) above sea level that looks out over some of the most stunning...
This is an opportunity to explore one of the geological gems of central Norway: Hallingskarvet National Park. This 170-square-mile (450-square-km) protected area was formed over various ice ages and, today, includes high plateaus, glaciers, and towering mountain peaks—the highest of which is...
In the center of northern Norway exist some of the most unspoiled alpine landscapes anywhere in the world. This is also where you'll find the Driva River. The Dovrefjell Mountains feed the Driva, and it runs 150 km (93 miles) north, down the mountains, and through Trøndelag and Møre og Romsdal...
Experience the thrill of hiking one of Norway's most famous routes during the quiet winter season and while sleeping in a secluded dome. The Sunset/Sunrise Dome offers comfortable facilities and a see-through ceiling, perfect for stargazing at night. You'll start with a snowshoe hike to your...
Aurland is a popular tourist region in central-western Norway, as it's home to the Nærøyfjord, a stunning arm of the Sognefjord, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fjord is accessible from the nearby village of Flåm, which sits on the edge of the Aurlandsfjord. Flåm Harbor is a major port of...
This excursion amid the Norway fjords isn't any ordinary hike. On the contrary, it's an adventure unto itself—a moderately difficult trek up one of the most beautiful trails in the world. And the reward, once you reach the endpoint at Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), is a viewpoint the likes of which...
This guided hike sets off early from the city of Stavanger to beat the crowds. The destination is the top of Kjerag, one of the most famous mountains in Norway and one of the most beautiful hikes in Scandinavia. Known as the "majesty of the Lysefjord," it gets its name due to its location in the...
Discover Oslo on two wheels, zipping around Norway's capital city and hitting all the major sites. In total, you'll cover about 7 miles (12 km). This fun and relaxed experience navigates car-free bike paths and passes through lush city parks and the 700-year-old fortress. Explore the secrets of...
The Lofoten Islands are one of Noway's little-discovered gems, tucked away high in the Arctic Circle. The Lofotens are part of an archipelago comprised of five main volcanic islands and many smaller ones. Fishing is the predominant industry, but tourism is on the upswing, too, as more and more...
Enjoy a winter whale-watching cruise that guarantees whale sightings and takes you through the scenic waters near Norway's famous Andenes Lighthouse. Located between Lofoten and North Cape's tourist destinations, you'll join Norway's largest and most experienced whale-watching provider. You'll...
Experience an adrenaline rush on the Flåm Zip Line, the longest zip line in Scandinavia. You'll begin at over 2,600 feet (820 m) and fly nearly an entire mile (1,381 m) across the Flåm Valley. Your starting point is Vatnahalsen Station, and your endpoint is Kårdalen near the Rallarrosa Cheese...
Explore the Lofoten Islands at your own pace with a road trip! One of the best ways to appreciate the stunning natural scenery of the islands is to follow the famous E10 road, which runs along the archipelago. You'll find numerous places to stop and admire the dramatic landscape along the...
Experience the magic of Norway’s winter fjords on an excursion by inflatable RIB boat to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Enjoy captivating scenery of snowy peaks and frozen waterfalls as your guide shares stories of the region and its people. After reaching the...
Watch the summer midnight sun melt into the horizon on this hike in Lofoten's mountainous northern side. With a clear view of the sea, you'll climb up to the top of a grassy peak and find the perfect spot to watch the sun's rays fade into the night. The moderate route is a local hidden gem and...
Discover the craggy Norwegian mountains on a snowshoeing adventure in Lofoten. This easy route is a great way to enjoy nature and the fresh air without needing technical experience. From January to April, the region is often blanketed in snow and offers excellent conditions for snowshoeing.You...
Experience the Norwegian winter on snowshoes with a hike through the mountains near Flåm. Enjoy scenic vistas and local stories while hiking on traditional Norwegian snowshoes. Then, stop at Stegastein Viewpoint to take in one of the area’s most dramatic scenes: the panoramic landscape over...
If you're in Bergen, you can easily explore some of the region’s best scenery by visiting the Hordaland area. This fjord cruise starts in Bergen and sails through Osterfjord. You’ll venture deep into the fjord, passing steep mountains, powerful waterfalls, and colorful villages. Enjoy the views...
One of the best ways to explore the pristine Arctic wilderness and fulfill your dream of mushing a team of powerful Siberian Huskies is with a dog sledding experience. This sledding trip will bring you close to nature and show you Senja's most beautiful scenes.You'll start by meeting your local...
Go back in time 1,000 years and meet the inhabitants of Njardarheim, who will model how society functioned in the Vikings' time. In Viking Valley, you'll learn about the Vikings' history and gain insight into how they traveled, traditional boatbuilding, and how the era impacted Norway's modern...
Dog-sledding in the Norwegian countryside has to be one of the most unique and adventurous activities on earth. Moreover, it's the ideal way to experience the primal majesty of the Arctic terrain. This half-day excursion from the city of Tromsø starts by arriving at a dog-sledding camp where a...
Avoid the tourist crowds and opt for an adrenaline-pumping ascent to Trolltunga. This off-the-beaten-path route combines cycling, climbing, and hiking, producing the ultimate adventure to Norway's famous "Troll's Tongue." You'll start with a 3.7-mile (6 km) bike ride along the fjord until you...
The village of Utne is located in the heart of the Hardanger region of Norway, about 217 miles (350 km) west of Oslo, near Bergen. This unspoiled country has been a prime European tourist destination for over two centuries. People come from far and wide to witness its spectacular natural beauty...
Enjoy a beautiful hike along the popular Queen's Route near the fishing village of Stø on the Vesterålen Islands. You'll pass picturesque views along the coastline, crossing bridges and twisting through fjords and inlets.This moderate trek is called Dronningruta, also known as the Queen’s Route,...
This tour leaves in the morning by boat from the village of Andenes, which is the northernmost settlement of Norway's Andøya Island. It's also a winter migratory destination for orca, humpback, and fin whales who come to feast on the large schools of herring in the nearby Andfjord. This tour...
Cruise along Oslofjord on board a silent hybrid-electric boat while observing the area’s incredible scenery, wildlife, and city skyline. After departing from Aker Brygge, you’ll cruise by Oslo’s Akershus Fortress, Opera House, Hovedøya Island, and the famous lighthouse on a rock, Dyna Fyr. The...
Norway is renowned for its immense natural beauty, evident in the glacial landscapes, cascading waterfalls, ancient fjords, rugged mountains, and sweeping valleys. So naturally, this unspoiled beauty allows for some incredible nature hikes. Located in the northwest of Norway, in the county of...
Get ready to chase the Northern Lights! Leaving from Svolvær, you'll join a tour on a fun after-dark excursion and find the best locations to view the colorful Arctic sky. Your guide will lead you away from the city lights, securing perfect conditions to see and photograph this spectacular...
Discover some of the region's most beautiful scenery as you make your way to Stegastein Viewpoint, a platform standing 2,132 feet (650 meters) above the fjord below and jutting 98 feet (30 meters) from the cliffs. This is an attraction not to be missed and has won various awards for its...
Experience Preikestolen (Norway’s famous Pulpit Rock) in solitude on this sunrise hiking adventure. Most visitors make their way up to Preikestolen during the day, so an early-morning journey means you’ll have incredible views of Lysefjord all to yourself. You'll start with a drive to the...
Hit the road and enjoy a scenic route around Senja, embracing the truly breathtaking sights of the area. You can stop in one of the many notable points along the way to take photos, stretch your legs, or enjoy a hike! This road trip will take you to historic fishing villages, idyllic beaches, and...
Chase the Northern Lights and capture the beauty of Norway at night. Your hosts commit themselves to find the Aurora Borealis and will drive around in the pursuit of clear skies. Along the way, you'll learn about the science behind the colors and hear stories about local culture, folklore, and...
Enjoy a tour of Undredal, a humble fjord village known for its Norwegian traditions. The unique hamlet and its small population live amongst local customs and folklore shaped by its strong connection with nature. You’ll start with a stroll through the village with the help of a local and visit...
Enjoy a scenic hike and discover the hidden beauty and legend of Skomakarnibbå, a rocky outcrop once home to a traveling shoemaker. You’ll start the journey by transferring to the trailhead via the scenic Ryfylke National Tourist Road, enjoying views of mountains, fjords, and lakes. You’ll also...
Enjoy a gentle kayaking tour paddling down the UNESCO World Heritage Site Geirangerfjord. First, discover the region's beauty from a unique vantage point in comfortable double or single kayaks. Then, you’ll leisurely make your way to the viewing point of the area’s famous Seven Sisters Waterfall,...
Combine a scenic fjord cruise with a visit to the area's famed Norwegian Glacier Museum. Starting in Balestrand, you'll sail along Fjærlandsfjord, where you'll pass by colorful villages, cliffs, snow-capped mountain peaks, waterfalls, and forested hills. Upon arriving in Fjærland, you'll make...
Enjoy an unforgettable trip in the Norwegian mountains with an iconic dogsledding excursion in Røros! With the help of a guide, you'll get acquainted with your equipment, learn a few pointers, and meet an energetic and adorable fleet of huskies. Keep your camera close as you make your way to the...
Enjoy an active excursion in Svolvær's beautiful scenery by combining road cycling with a mountain hike. You'll start by biking along the main road, E10. After about 45 minutes, you'll reach the trailhead, park your bike, and set off on foot. This moderate hiking path leads you to a mountain pass...
Combine Norway's glacier-carved mountains with a hike to the highest waterfall in southwestern Norway and visit some of the region's cultural landmarks. Your excursion begins with a drive into the mountains, passing pastures, meadows, valleys, and fjords as you make your way to the hike's...
Discover the beauty of Tromsøfjord and the area wildlife on this cruise aboard a silent hybrid-electric ship, which minimizes nature disturbances and amplifies your experience. From the fish in the sea to the birds above, you’ll observe different species from inside warm lounges and panoramic...
Combine a kayaking experience with a hike to one of the most famous abandoned fjord farms, Skageflå. You’ll start your journey with a gentle paddle through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Geirangerfjord, discovering the beauty of the region from a unique vantage point in comfortable double or...
Enjoy one of the most popular cycling routes in Norway. A bike ride down Navvies’ Road (Rallarvegen) offers iconic Norwegian nature, local culture, and regional history. The route takes about two hours and is great for cyclists of all abilities, although some biking experience is helpful.You'll...
Experience the magical evening landscapes of the Arctic while driving a snowmobile through wintry paths. If you're lucky, the Northern Lights will dance above you all evening! Enjoy driving in pairs with one driver and one passenger per snowmobile and plenty of opportunities to switch places...
Stretch your legs on a mountain hike to Nesahaugen, a viewpoint with stunning fjord and glacier landscapes. You'll start in the town of Mundal and conquer the first stretch, which is a bit steep. This moderate route weaves through a dense forest up to an old summer mountain farm at about 1,500...
Enjoy a cruise through Trollfjord, one of Norway’s most famous fjords, known for its stunning beauty, steep mountain range, and narrow inlets. Hop onboard a comfortable sailing catamaran, watching the incredible scenery pass you by. Along the way, you'll stop to learn the regional trade and catch...
Enjoy hiking in one of Norway's famed landscapes, complete with towering mountains, vast valleys, deep fjords, and historic farmland. The area around Valldal is a hiking paradise, rich in all that the country has to offer, plus incredible viewpoints. Many of the routes include off-the-beaten-path...
Discover historic Svolvær and Henningsvær on two wheels with a bike ride through the cities. You'll experience the history of these small villages and enjoy the area's beautiful scenery. Norway's Lofoten region is one of the most popular destinations in the world, and for a good reason.To start,...
Stavanger is a lively university city with a vibrant atmosphere. Its compact city planning makes it easy to explore, even in a short amount of time. Wander the city like a local, visiting beloved neighborhood spots, historic sites, artsy districts, or areas outside Stavanger on a day trip. Start...
Tour the vibrant and lively capital of Oslo with an enthusiastic and informed local leading the way. Although the city is fairly small—it takes only 30 minutes to travel from one end to the other—there's still a lot to see and do! Oslo is known for its rich history and museums, some of which...
Discover the history of Lofoten on this cruise and walking tour on and around Skrova Island. This particular area is rich in unique history, with human settlements dating back over 10,000 years! Lofoten is also home to Northeast Arctic cod's spawning grounds, so you'll enjoy the history of the...
Olso is one of the best Norwegian cities for culture! With several museums, art installations, and cultural hotspots in and around the city, you can easily spend an entire day exploring Norway's unique and distinct heritage. Enjoy discovering the city on your own or follow the suggestions...
Discover the island of Svanøy with the help of a local. This peculiar island is said to be the birthplace of Eric Bloodaxe, the famous 10th-century Norwegian ruler. Learn about the island's history while visiting Viking graves, exploring traditional boatbuilding, and listening to stories about...
Enjoy a thrilling dogsledding experience followed by viewing the Northern Lights in the world-famous Alta region. You'll start by meeting an eager team of huskies waiting to take you into the wilderness. Get into your gear and learn how to manage your own dog team. Then, you'll travel into the...
Situated on Norway's west coast, this wharf city of about 300,000 residents (one of the oldest port cities in Europe) is surrounded by ocean, mountains, and fjords. Rich in culture and seafaring history, Bergen boasts a vast selection of cultural activities.Check out the Bryggen area of downtown...
Enjoy a hike through the countryside near Tromsø in the company of adorable Huskies and their pups. You can cater this family-friendly activity to your liking, choosing hiking routes that vary from easy to medium. As you walk with a guide, you'll learn about the kennel and what the Huskies do...
This cultural experience takes you on a quest to find the Northern Lights while feeding a herd of reindeer at a traditional lavvo hut. You'll have plenty of time to interact with the animals, feed them, pet them, and take photos. In addition, your guide will share the Sámi people's stories,...
Enjoy a quiet evening walk through the cultural center of Flåm with a local guide. Experience this humble village at night as you stroll along the fjord in the crisp winter air and watch the landscape change with the fading sunlight. Your guide will help you understand how life has transformed in...
Discover the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in the Arctic region of Norway on snowshoes. From early fall until mid-spring, solar storms light up the sky in various colors. In winter, amongst fresh snowfall, the experience is even more magical. The show draws tourists from around the world but...
Discover the humble village of Balestrand on a walk with a local guide. Your host will share stories of the town's history and its people—still today, a vibrant artist colony. The tour starts at Høyviksalen, also known as the Høyvik Hall, where you'll find furniture made by the famous (at least...
Enjoy time exploring the third largest fjord in the world at 111 miles (179 km) long. The Hardangerfjord region has been an important European tourist destination since the 19th century and offers spectacular nature opportunities.Choose from some of the most amazing hikes in Norway, all set in...
One of the best ways to enjoy the unique and beautiful wilderness surrounding Værlandet is on a bicycle. Cycling is popular in the region and offers an excellent sample of what the area has to offer. Start by biking through the Nordsjøporten (North Sea portal), a network of six bridges connecting...
Your journey to Flørli begins with a transfer to Høgsfjord, where a passenger ferry awaits. Then, you’ll cruise into Lysefjord as steep mountain walls emerge, passing waterfalls, abandoned farms, and Preikestolen, Norway’s famous Pulpit Rock, which towers nearly 2,000 feet (604 m) above sea...
Experience Oslo's waterfront by kayak with an eco-friendly company. You'll first get acquainted with your kayak and equipment and then learn a few basic techniques. Once you feel comfortable, your guide will lead you around scenic Oslofjord. "Tavaha" is the Nordic expression for taking care of...
Embark on a scenic fjord cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage Site Geirangerfjord. This 9-mile (15-km) stretch offers an incredible introduction to Norway’s famed fjord scenery. You’ll pass high mountains and spot abandoned farms that seem to cling to hillsides. As you cruise from Geiranger...
Explore one of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen with the help of a local. You’ll first enjoy an informative walk through Bergen, stopping to admire several historic buildings, monuments, and sites. Listen to stories about the city's history and how it has grown to its modern-day size. Stop...
Explore beautiful Tromsø, the "Paris of the North," with a local guide. You’ll start within the city’s original borders dating back to 1794, walking from Strandtorget to Skansen. Your guide will share the human history before the city became an official settlement, going back centuries and...
Discover the beautiful island of Skrova onboard a silent hybrid-electric ship, which minimizes nature disturbances as you enjoy your cruise. You’ll pass white-sand beaches and observe the area’s rich wildlife living alongside ancient fishing communities. Skrova is home to many of Lofoten’s famous...
