A popular area in Oslo with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Oslo Fjord.

Aker Brygge is a vibrant waterfront district located in the heart of Oslo, Norway. This area is known for its bustling atmosphere and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The district is home to a wide range of restaurants, offering everything from traditional Norwegian cuisine to international dishes. In addition, Aker Brygge boasts a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to local artisan markets. /n The area is also a hub for entertainment, with a number of cultural events taking place throughout the year. These include music festivals, art exhibitions, and more. The district is also home to several notable landmarks, including the Aker Brygge Wharf and the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art. With its combination of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences, Aker Brygge is a must-visit destination when in Oslo.

A vibrant waterfront district in Oslo, known for its restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.

A bustling outdoor market in Bergen selling fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

The Fish Market in Bergen, Norway is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh seafood, from salmon and cod to king crab and lobster. The market is also a great place to buy local produce, with stalls selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade jams and honey. /n The atmosphere at the Fish Market is lively and energetic, with locals and tourists alike flocking to the stalls to sample the fresh produce and seafood. It's a must-visit for food lovers and those looking to experience local Norwegian culture. The market is also surrounded by a number of restaurants and cafes, where you can sit down and enjoy a meal made with the fresh produce from the market.

A bustling hub of activity, the Fish Market in Bergen is a must-visit.

A historic harbour district, known for its iconic wooden houses.

Bryggen district, situated in the heart of Bergen, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic area is renowned for its well-preserved wooden buildings that date back to the Hanseatic period. These buildings, which were once the homes and workplaces of merchants, are a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. /n Walking through the narrow alleyways and overhanging galleries of Bryggen district is like stepping back in time. The area also boasts a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums, making it a must-visit destination for any visitor to Bergen. The district's unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere truly embody the spirit of this historic Norwegian city.

Bryggen district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic wooden buildings.

A picturesque harbor area featuring historic buildings, museums, and a vibrant fish market.

Bergen's historic harbor is a major attraction, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's past. It's a bustling area filled with historic buildings, museums, and seafood restaurants. /n The harbor is lined with a series of historic buildings, known as Bryggen, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. These buildings, dating back to the 14th century, once served as the home of the Hanseatic League and are now home to a number of shops, galleries, and restaurants. /n The harbor is also home to a number of museums, including the Hanseatic Museum and the Bergen Maritime Museum, which offer a glimpse into the city's maritime history. The harbor is also known for its seafood restaurants, which serve fresh seafood caught in the surrounding waters. The historic harbor of Bergen offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine, making it a must-visit for any traveler to Norway.

Bergen's historic harbor is a major attraction, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's past.

A bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites that reflect the city's history and modern lifestyle.

Oslo's vibrant streets are a hub of cultural experiences and urban life. They are filled with a mix of historic and modern architecture, diverse dining options, and unique shopping experiences. /n The streets are lined with a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to local artisan shops, offering a unique shopping experience. The dining scene is equally diverse, with a range of restaurants serving cuisines from around the world. The streets are also home to a number of cultural institutions, including theaters, galleries, and music venues, offering a rich cultural experience. /n The architecture is a mix of historic and modern, with many buildings dating back to the 19th century. The streets are also home to a number of parks and green spaces, providing a respite from the urban hustle and bustle. The vibrant streets of Oslo offer a unique blend of urban life and cultural experiences, making them a must-visit for any traveler to Norway.

Oslo's vibrant streets are a hub of cultural experiences and urban life.

A well-preserved wooden house settlement with over 170 houses, offering a glimpse into the city's past.

Stavanger's Old Town, also known as Gamle Stavanger, is a charming area filled with historic buildings and cobblestone streets. It's a popular attraction for its preserved wooden houses and quaint atmosphere. /n The Old Town is home to over 170 wooden houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, making it one of the largest collections of wooden houses in Northern Europe. The houses, painted in white, are well-preserved and many of them are still inhabited. /n The cobblestone streets, lined with flowers and trees, add to the charm of the area. There are also several museums in the area, including the Stavanger Maritime Museum and the Norwegian Canning Museum, which offer a glimpse into the city's maritime and industrial history. The Old Town of Stavanger offers a unique blend of history and charm, making it a must-visit for any traveler to Norway.

Stavanger's Old Town is a charming area filled with historic buildings and cobblestone streets.

Experience the magic of Norway, a Scandinavian gem renowned for its stunning fjords, Northern Lights, and vibrant cultural cities. Explore Oslo, the capital, with its blend of modern architecture and historic sites like the Viking Ship Museum. Venture to Bergen, the gateway to the fjords, and take a scenic cruise through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. Don't miss the charming coastal city of Stavanger, home to the famous Pulpit Rock. For outdoor enthusiasts, Norway offers exceptional hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights in Tromsø or journey to the North Cape, the northernmost point in Europe. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and friendly locals, Norway promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Aker Brygge

Start your day by exploring the vibrant streets of Oslo, filled with unique boutiques and local shops. You'll find a variety of Norwegian design, fashion, and home decor items that are perfect for souvenirs.

Enjoy a traditional Norwegian lunch at a local eatery. Try dishes like Klippfisk (dried and salted cod) or Rakfisk (fermented trout), paired with a local craft beer.

After lunch, continue your shopping spree at Aker Brygge, a popular shopping district with a beautiful waterfront view. Here, you'll find a mix of high-end brands and local designers.

For dinner, indulge in some fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Norway is known for its high-quality fish, so don't miss out on dishes like salmon or cod.

Experience Oslo's nightlife by visiting one of the city's trendy bars or clubs. Enjoy a cocktail while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Exploring Oslo's Shopping and Nightlife

Fish Market

Bryggen district

Start your second day in Bergen, known for its historic harbor and colorful wooden houses. Visit the famous Fish Market for a unique shopping experience.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional dishes like Fårikål (mutton stew with cabbage) or Lutefisk (dried fish with lye).

Spend your afternoon exploring the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district, known for its historic wooden buildings. This area also offers several boutique shops where you can find unique souvenirs.

Enjoy a hearty Norwegian dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like Pinnekjøtt (dried and salted lamb ribs) or Kjøttkaker (Norwegian meatballs).

Experience Bergen's vibrant nightlife by visiting a local pub or club. Enjoy a local beer or cocktail while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Discovering Bergen's Historic Charm and Vibrant Nightlife

On your final day, visit the city of Stavanger. Start your day by exploring the charming Old Town, filled with boutique shops and art galleries.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional dishes like Sodd (meat and vegetable soup) or Klippfisk (dried and salted cod).

Spend your afternoon exploring the city's shopping district, where you'll find a mix of high-end brands and local designers.

For your final dinner, indulge in some fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Try dishes like salmon or cod, paired with a local craft beer.

End your trip with a bang by experiencing Stavanger's vibrant nightlife. Visit a local bar or club and enjoy a cocktail while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Uncovering Stavanger's Boutique Shops and Lively Evening Scene

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

Norway has a well-developed domestic air travel network. Major cities and even some of the smaller towns have airports, with regular flights operated by airlines such as Norwegian Air and SAS. This is a quick and efficient way to travel long distances across the country.

Norway's train network is extensive and offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel. The Norwegian State Railways (NSB) operates most routes, including the famous Oslo-Bergen line which passes through stunning fjord and mountain landscapes.

Buses are a cost-effective way to travel in Norway, reaching many places not served by train. Long-distance express buses connect major cities, while local buses provide transport within towns and rural areas.

With its extensive coastline and many fjords, ferry travel is a common and scenic way to get around in Norway. There are numerous ferry routes, including those that cross fjords, connect coastal towns, and serve the many islands.

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Norway at your own pace. Norway has a good network of roads, including National Tourist Routes which are specially designed to showcase the country's natural beauty. Remember to follow the country's strict driving laws.

Norway is a great country for cycling, with many well-marked cycling routes and the possibility to rent bikes in many locations. Note that the terrain can be challenging and the weather changeable.

Ridesharing services such as Uber are available in some Norwegian cities including Oslo and Bergen. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially in urban areas.

Norway's stunning landscapes make it a paradise for hikers. There are countless hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain treks. Always check local advice and weather conditions before setting out.

Norway's cities have good public transport networks, including buses, trams, and in Oslo, a metro system. Tickets can usually be bought on board or at stations, and often cover multiple modes of transport.

In winter, skiing is not just a sport but also a mode of transport in Norway. Cross-country skiing trails are plentiful and well-maintained, and in some areas you can even ski to work or school.

Fårikål is Norway's national dish, made from mutton with bone, cabbage, whole black pepper and often a little wheat flour. It's traditionally served with potatoes boiled in their jackets.

Fårikål

Rakfisk is a traditional Norwegian dish made from trout or char, salted and fermented for two to three months, or even up to a year. It's a speciality of Valdres in Eastern Norway.

Rakfisk

Klippfisk is dried and salted cod, which is a staple in Norwegian cuisine. It's often served with accessories like bacon, cream sauce, and vegetables.

Klippfisk

Lefse is a traditional soft, Norwegian flatbread made with leftover potatoes, flour, butter, and milk or cream. It's often served sweet, rolled up with butter, sugar and cinnamon.

Lefse

Krumkake is a Norwegian waffle cookie made of flour, butter, eggs, sugar, and cream. It's traditionally made during the Christmas season.

Krumkake

Raspeballer, also known as Komle, is a traditional Norwegian dish made of grated potatoes, where they are typically served with bacon, sausages or sheep meat.

Raspeballer

Pinnekjøtt is a festive dish typical to Western- and Northern Norway, made from rib of lamb or mutton. It's traditionally served at Christmas with puréed swede and potatoes.

Pinnekjøtt

Rømmegrøt is a warm Norwegian dessert made from sour cream, whole milk, wheat flour, butter, and salt. It's often served with sugar, cinnamon and butter, and a glass of cold milk on the side.

Rømmegrøt

Kjøttkaker are Norwegian meatballs made with ground beef or pork, and served with mashed or boiled potatoes, gravy, vegetables and lingonberry sauce.

Kjøttkaker

Aquavit or 'akevitt' is a distilled spirit that is principally produced in Scandinavia, where it has been produced since the 15th century. It's typically flavored with herbs like caraway seeds, anise, dill, fennel, and coriander.

Aquavit

Solbærtoddy is a warm blackcurrant toddy that's a popular drink in Norway, especially during the cold winter months. It's made from blackcurrant saft, sugar, and boiling water.

Solbærtoddy

Karsk is a traditional Norwegian cocktail made of coffee and moonshine or vodka. It's particularly popular in the Trøndelag region of Norway.

Karsk

New Year's Day

Maundy Thursday

Good Friday

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Labor Day

17 May Constitution Day (1814)

Ascension Day

Whit Sunday

Whit Monday

Christmas Day

Boxing Day

Sweden's second-largest city, known for its Dutch-style canals and leafy boulevards.

Gothenburg

A coastal city in southern Sweden, known for its modern architecture and diverse culture.

Malmö

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Stockholm

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Copenhagen

Denmark's second-largest city, known for its museums, historic sites, and vibrant culture.

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Scotland's capital, known for its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Edinburgh

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London

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Berlin

Netherlands' capital, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses.

Amsterdam

Oslo

Tromso

Western Norway

Norway is a Scandinavian country, and the official languages are Norwegian and Sami.

The currency used in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK).

Credit cards are widely accepted in Norway, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

Norway is known for its high cost of living. Expect to pay more for food, drinks, and accommodations compared to other European countries.

Tipping is not mandatory in Norway, but it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if you are happy with the service.

Norway uses the Type F power plug, so you may need to bring an adapter if your devices use a different type.

Norway is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

Norway has a temperate oceanic climate, with coastal areas having mild winters and cooler summer temperatures. The inland areas can have much colder winters and warmer summers.

In winter, temperatures can drop to -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius) in the inland areas, while in summer, temperatures can reach up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

Norway is known for its outdoor activities, so pack accordingly. In winter, warm clothing, boots, hats, and gloves are essential. In summer, lighter clothing with a waterproof jacket is recommended.

Norway has a high standard of healthcare, but it can be expensive for non-residents. Travel insurance that covers health is highly recommended.

Public transportation in Norway is efficient and reliable. It includes buses, trams, ferries, and trains.

Norway is a safe country to visit, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to take standard precautions to protect your belongings.

Norway has strict laws regarding alcohol. It's only sold at certain times in stores, and the legal drinking age is 18 for beer and wine, and 20 for spirits.

Norway is a very eco-friendly country. Littering is frowned upon, and recycling is widely practiced.

If you plan on driving, remember that Norway drives on the right-hand side of the road. Also, be aware of the many tunnels and toll roads.

Norway has a law called 'allemannsretten' or 'every man's right', which allows everyone to roam freely in nature, including camping in the wild.

In Norway, the sun does not set in the summer (Midnight Sun), and in winter, there is a period of darkness (Polar Night).

Norway has a rich history and culture. Respect local customs and traditions, and try to learn a few basic phrases in Norwegian.

Norway has strict laws on drones. If you plan to bring one, make sure to check the current regulations.

January is the coldest month in Norway, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for winter sports, but make sure to pack warm clothes.

February is still very cold in Norway, but the days start to get longer. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter activities and want to see the Northern Lights.

March sees the beginning of spring in Norway, with slightly warmer temperatures. However, there's still plenty of snow for skiing and other winter sports.

April is a transitional month in Norway, with the last of the winter snow melting away. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack for both warm and cold conditions.

May is a beautiful month to visit Norway, with spring in full bloom and temperatures becoming more comfortable. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

June is the start of summer in Norway, with long days and mild temperatures. It's the perfect time to visit the fjords and enjoy the midnight sun.

July is the warmest month in Norway, with plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities. It's a great time to visit the beaches and enjoy the summer festivals.

August is still warm in Norway, but the nights start to get cooler. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the peak tourist season but still enjoy good weather.

September is the start of autumn in Norway, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the changing colors.

October is a cool and wet month in Norway, with the first snowfall in the mountains. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy quiet and solitude.

November is a cold and dark month in Norway, with short days and the start of the winter season. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and want to see the Northern Lights.

December is a festive month in Norway, with Christmas markets and plenty of snow. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the holiday season and winter activities.

Norway's weather can be quite variable, so it's important to be prepared for different conditions. In general, the country experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with coastal areas having milder winters and cooler summers compared to the inland areas.

Winter in Norway, from November to March, can be very cold, especially in the inland areas. Temperatures can drop as low as -40 degrees Celsius (-40 degrees Fahrenheit) in the northern regions. Therefore, it's essential to pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, scarves, and hats. Snow boots are also a must, as snowfall is quite common.

Spring, from April to June, sees a gradual warming with temperatures ranging from 1.7 degrees Celsius (35 degrees Fahrenheit) to 15.5 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Fahrenheit). It's a great time to visit as the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers. Pack a mix of light and warm clothing, as temperatures can still drop, especially at night.

Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures ranging from 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees Fahrenheit) to 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the best time to visit fjords and enjoy outdoor activities. Pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Autumn, from September to October, can be wet and windy, with temperatures dropping from 13.5 degrees Celsius (56 degrees Fahrenheit) to 3 degrees Celsius (37 degrees Fahrenheit). Waterproof clothing and warm layers are recommended.

Regardless of when you visit, it's a good idea to pack waterproof and windproof clothing, as Norway's weather can change quickly. Also, remember that the sun can be quite strong in the summer, especially in the north, so don't forget your sunscreen. Lastly, if you're planning to see the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is during the dark, clear nights of winter.

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About Norway