5-Day Norwegian Adventure and Culinary Exploration with Friends
Norway
5 days
About Norway
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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering the Beauty of Bergen and its Fjords
Morning
Start your second day with a trip to Bergen, known for its beautiful fjords. Take a guided tour of the city, exploring its historic wharf and vibrant fish market.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant, trying out traditional dishes like Fårikål (mutton stew with cabbage) and Kjøttkaker (Norwegian meatballs).
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon on a Fjord Cruise, experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Norwegian fjords. Don't forget to take plenty of photos!
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood feast for dinner, with fresh catches of the day like salmon, cod, and king crab.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a local pub, sampling some of Norway's finest craft beers.
Day 3
Adventure and History in Stavanger
Morning
On your third day, head to the city of Stavanger. Start your day with a visit to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, a unique museum showcasing the oil industry's development.
Lunch
Enjoy a hearty Norwegian lunch at a local restaurant, trying dishes like Sodd (a traditional soup) and Klippfisk.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon hiking to the famous Pulpit Rock, a natural rock formation with a 604-meter drop. The view from the top is simply breathtaking.
Dinner
After a day of adventure, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Raspeballer (potato dumplings) and Fenalår (salted, dried, and cured lamb's leg).
Evening
End your day with a leisurely stroll around the city, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Stavanger.
Day 4
Arctic Wonders in Tromsø
Morning
On your fourth day, head to the city of Tromsø, known as the gateway to the Arctic. Start your day with a visit to the Polar Museum, which showcases the region's polar exploration history.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery, trying out traditional dishes like Boknafisk (semi-dried fish) and Lutefisk (dried fish treated with lye).
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon on a Whale Watching Tour, where you might see orcas, humpback whales, and fin whales. It's a truly unforgettable experience.
Dinner
Enjoy a dinner of local specialties, including reindeer and king crab, at a local restaurant.
Evening
End your day with a Northern Lights Tour. If you're lucky, you'll witness this natural phenomenon lighting up the Arctic sky.
Day 5
Experiencing Sami Culture in Karasjok
Morning
On your final day, explore the Sami culture in Karasjok. Visit the Sami Parliament and the Sami National Museum to learn about their history and way of life.
Lunch
Enjoy a traditional Sami lunch, which might include dishes like Bidos (reindeer stew) and Leipäjuusto (Finnish squeaky cheese).
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon on a Reindeer Sledding adventure, experiencing the traditional Sami way of life.
Dinner
For your final dinner, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, trying out dishes like Røkt laks (smoked salmon) and Klippfisk.
Evening
End your Norwegian adventure with a visit to a local pub, sampling some of the country's finest craft beers and reflecting on your unforgettable journey.
Attractions in Itinerary (13)
1Oslo
Oslo is the capital of Norway and is known for its green spaces and museums. It's also famous for its modern architecture.
2Vigeland Sculpture Park
The world's largest sculpture park made by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland.
3Bergen
Bergen is a city on Norway’s southwestern coast. It's surrounded by mountains and fjords, including Sognefjord, the country’s longest and deepest.
4Fjord Cruise
A breathtaking cruise through Norway's stunning fjords, offering views of towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
5Norwegian Petroleum Museum
A unique museum in Stavanger offering insights into the oil industry and its impact on Norwegian society.
6Pulpit Rock
Pulpit Rock, also known as Preikestolen, is a steep cliff which rises 604 metres above the Lysefjorden. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway and offers breathtaking views.
7Tromsø
Tromsø, a city in Norway, is a major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle. It’s famed as a viewing point for colorful Northern Lights that sometimes light up the nighttime sky.
8Polar Museum
A museum in Tromsø dedicated to the history of Arctic exploration.
9Whale Watching Tour
Whale Watching Tour is a popular tourist activity in Norway. Tourists can see different species of whales in their natural habitat.
10Northern Lights Tour
Northern Lights Tour is a must-do activity in Norway. Tourists can witness the spectacular natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights.
11Sami Parliament
The Sami Parliament in Norway is the representative body for people of Sami heritage. It's a significant cultural institution for the Sami people.
12Sami National Museum
The Sami National Museum provides insight into the Sami culture, history, and art. It's an important institution for understanding the Sami people.
13Reindeer Sledding
Reindeer sledding is a traditional Sami way of transportation, offering a unique and fun way to experience the beautiful landscapes of Norway.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Fårikål
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.
Rakfisk
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.
Klippfisk
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.
Lefse
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.
Krumkake
Krumkake is a Norwegian waffle cookie made of flour, butter, eggs, sugar, and cream. It's traditionally made during the Christmas season.
Raspeballer
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.
Pinnekjøtt
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.
Rømmegrøt
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.
Kjøttkaker
Kjøttkaker are Norwegian meatballs made with ground beef or pork, and served with mashed or boiled potatoes, gravy, vegetables and lingonberry sauce.
Aquavit
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.
Solbærtoddy
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.
Karsk
Karsk is a traditional Norwegian cocktail made of coffee and moonshine or vodka. It's particularly popular in the Trøndelag region of Norway.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Norway largely depends on what you want to experience. For the Midnight Sun and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, the summer months of June to August are ideal. The weather is pleasant and the days are long. If you're interested in skiing or other winter sports, or if you want to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, then the colder months from November to March would be the best time for you. However, do note that it can get quite cold during this period. For a balance of mild weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October can also be a good choice.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
March 28 | Thu | Maundy Thursday |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 17 | Fri | 17 May Constitution Day (1814) |
May 19 | Sun | Whit Sunday |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Air Travel
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.
Train
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.
Bus
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.
Ferry
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.
Car
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.
Cycling
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
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.
Hiking
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.
Public Transport in Cities
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.
Skiing
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.
Important information
Currencykr NOK
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112, 110
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Norway as a first time visitor
1
Norway is a Scandinavian country, and the official languages are Norwegian and Sami.
2
The currency used in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK).
3
Credit cards are widely accepted in Norway, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
4
Norway is known for its high cost of living. Expect to pay more for food, drinks, and accommodations compared to other European countries.
5
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.
6
Norway uses the Type F power plug, so you may need to bring an adapter if your devices use a different type.
7
Norway is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).
8
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.
9
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).
10
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.
11
Norway has a high standard of healthcare, but it can be expensive for non-residents. Travel insurance that covers health is highly recommended.
12
Public transportation in Norway is efficient and reliable. It includes buses, trams, ferries, and trains.
13
Norway is a safe country to visit, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to take standard precautions to protect your belongings.
14
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.
15
Norway is a very eco-friendly country. Littering is frowned upon, and recycling is widely practiced.
16
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.
17
Norway has a law called 'allemannsretten' or 'every man's right', which allows everyone to roam freely in nature, including camping in the wild.
18
In Norway, the sun does not set in the summer (Midnight Sun), and in winter, there is a period of darkness (Polar Night).
19
Norway has a rich history and culture. Respect local customs and traditions, and try to learn a few basic phrases in Norwegian.
20
Norway has strict laws on drones. If you plan to bring one, make sure to check the current regulations.
Basic Norwegian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hei | hay | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Ha det | ha de | Saying goodbye |
Please | Vær så snill | ver so snil | Making a request |
Thank you | Takk | tak | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Ja | ya | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Nei | nay | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Unnskyld meg | uns-shild may | Getting someone's attention |
I'm sorry | Jeg beklager | yay bek-lager | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Snakker du engelsk? | snakker doo eng-elsk | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Jeg forstår ikke | yay for-stoar ik-ke | Expressing confusion |
Where is the bathroom? | Hvor er toalettet? | vor er toa-let-et | Asking for directions |
How much does this cost? | Hvor mye koster dette? | vor mye koster dette | Asking the price of something |
Help | Hjelp | yelp | Asking for assistance |
Call the police | Ring politiet | ring poli-ti-et | In case of emergency |
I'm lost | Jeg har gått meg vill | yay har got may vill | When you can't find your way |
Can I use my credit card? | Kan jeg bruke kredittkortet mitt? | kan yay bruk-ke kredit-kort-et mitt | Asking to use credit card |
Open | Åpen | open | When you want to know if a place is open |
Closed | Stengt | stengt | When you want to know if a place is closed |
Food | Mat | mat | When you're looking for something to eat |
Water | Vann | van | When you're looking for something to drink |
Packing List
Clothing
Warm clothing (thermal underwear, sweaters, fleece jackets)
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Waterproof pants
Warm socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Gloves
Scarf
Hat
Swimsuit (for hot tubs or indoor pools)
Sleepwear
Underwear
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license (if planning to rent a car)
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency (Norwegian krone)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Universal power adapter
Camera
Charger for camera
Headphones
Portable power bank
Laptop (if necessary)
Charger for laptop
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel guidebook for Norway
Maps of areas you plan to visit
Travel-size laundry detergent
Ziplock bags for keeping things dry
Weather Conditions
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.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 2° / -6° | 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 | 3° / -6° | 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 | 7° / -3° | 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 | 13° / 1° | 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 | 18° / 6° | 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 | 22° / 10° | 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 | 24° / 12° | 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 | 23° / 12° | 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 | 18° / 8° | 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 | 12° / 4° | 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 | 7° / -1° | 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 | 4° / -4° | 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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Norway
Gothenburg
Sweden's second-largest city, known for its Dutch-style canals and leafy boulevards.
Malmö
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Stockholm
Sweden's capital, known for its beautiful archipelago, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
Copenhagen
Denmark's capital, known for its historic sites, modern architecture, and vibrant culture.
Aarhus
Denmark's second-largest city, known for its museums, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
Helsinki
Finland's capital, known for its beautiful archipelago, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
Edinburgh
Scotland's capital, known for its historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture.
London
England's capital, known for its historic sites, modern architecture, and vibrant culture.
Berlin
Germany's capital, known for its historic sites, modern architecture, and vibrant culture.
Amsterdam
Netherlands' capital, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses.
