Visiting Norway? Top Destinations For Your Best Trip Ever!
Published 2025From cool city vibes to stunning fjords, northern lights, and tiny villages way up in the Arctic—Norway’s crazy long and packed with stuff to do. But, where do you even start? Best bet: pick two to three areas to explore, so you don’t miss the good stuff. You can always come back, right? Here’s a quick look at some highlights.
Norway is the ultimate mix of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and outdoor adventures. It’s no surprise that tourism is booming.
I lived in Norway for years and love to go back every time I can. Here’s a quick snapshot of my top 11 recommended destinations in Norway for epic scenery, city vibes, and adventure—plus, a few hotel recommendations thrown in (because it does matter where you stay).
Let’s dive in and start crafting your dream Norwegian getaway.
Book before you go
Explore the best flight deals below. Use the filters to sort by location and date. You may also want to arrange a local pickup at the airport or a car rental in advance.
I list my recommended places to stay for each location in the article, but you can also explore hotel deals and availability via my interactive map at the bottom of the page. Norway can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to book in advance and save.
Top Destinations for Stunning Scenery
01—
Geiranger Fjord: Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
Geiranger Fjord is pure magic—sheer cliffs, crashing waterfalls, and endless views. Even when the weather is crap, it’s amazing.
As a UNESCO-protected site, it’s home to stunning falls like the Seven Sisters and the Suitor.
Soak it all in with boat cruises or hikes that reveal insane photo ops. This place has (serious) wild beauty and untouched nature.
Really fun things to do
See the best of Geirangerfjord on this RIB boat tour that’ll take you to all the famous attractions and waterfalls. So much fun.
Want to get more active? Do this guided kayak tour around Geirangerfjord. Totally unforgettable adventure.
Take this awesome e-bike guided tour and hike to Haugsetsætra. Get all the local insights. Soak up the beauty.
If you’re staying in Ålesund, consider taking this one-day boat tour to Geiranger Fjord and back. It’s epic.
Best places to stay around Geiranger Fjord
Hotel Union Geiranger is a lovely spa hotel boasting a rooftop garden, as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools with stunning water views.
Traditional cabins like these offer a serene getaway surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
Overvoll Farm is a wonderful homestay option. Check it out!
02—
Lofoten Islands: The Arctic Archipelago of Surreal Landscapes
Lofoten feels like stepping into a dream. You’ll be pinching yourself the entire time to see that you’re awake.
There are rocky peaks, turquoise water, old fishing villages, and both the midnight sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter draw visitors year-round. Here are some tips for when to visit the Lofoten Islands, the most iconic photo spots and the best beaches (yes, really!).
It’s an ideal spot for women who love the outdoors—try kayaking, fishing, or hiking. You won’t regret it.
My fave things to do on the Lofoten Islands
I have goosebumps all over my arms just writing about this experience! I highly recommend kayaking in the midnight sun around the gorgeous Eggum region.
See all the epic spots and charming fishing villages around the Lofoten Islands on this photo tour.
Soaring eagles? Epic mountains? Glide over sparkling water? Yes, Please! Explore Trollfjord on this guided RIB cruise.
A few hotel options around the Lofoten Islands
Cozy fisherman’s cabins, upscale eco-resorts, and luxury lodges dot the islands.
I highly recommend staying in a cozy glamping dome. It’s one of those bucket-list moments!
Other good choices are Rostad Retro Rorbuer or Nusfjord Village & Resort for authentic lodging.
03—
Trolltunga: Iconic Cliff and Hiking Paradise
Few hikes in Norway rival the challenge and reward of reaching Trolltunga. Perched 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, this cliff provides sweeping mountain vistas. The trek can take 8-12 hours, so prepare for a full day outdoors. It’s best to visit in late spring or early autumn, when the weather is milder.
Awesome adventures in Trolltunga
Take this epic 26-hour local guided trekking tour to Trolltunga via Ferrata, and then spend the night in a dome glamping tent. Sells out fast!
Want something a little less sporty? You can have a similar experience with less thigh-burn on this Trolltunga sunset and glamping dome tent experience.
Okay. I have something for you. What about a Trolltunga Helicopter Tour? Talk about a bucket list experience! Pricy if you’re traveling alone, but very affordable if you’re traveling with a small group.
Accommodation near Trolltunga
Most hikers stay in Odda or nearby towns, which serve as a perfect base for exploring.
Vikinghaug is a really good option. It’s a large traditional house turned hotel with views of the fjord, waterfall, and glacier. Nice!
I also really like Blue House Odda. The apartment is nice and has lovely views over the mountain and the city.
Vibrant, Safe & Cultural Norwegian Cities
04—
Oslo: Uber-Cool & Cultural Capital
Oslo is a seriously underrated city full of art, history, and uber-cool bars and restaurants. Top picks? The sleek Opera House, Viking Ship Museum, and Vigeland Park—and you can walk around central Oslo in one day.
Mathallen’s food markets serve up local eats, while trendy neighborhoods like Grunerløkka keep things lively (it kind of sounds like “Groonlerka”). It’s a city made for walking or biking with lovely boutique hotels.
Fun things to do in Oslo
If you’re a foodie who loves to explore, you’ll love this Norwegian Food & Hidden Gems of Oslo with a local guide.
Hop from island to island on the Oslo fjords, stroll along village paths full of flowers, and discover a 1,000-year-old abbey. So much fun.
If you’re visiting in winter, explore the stunning winter landscapes around Oslomarka with snowshoes on your feet!
Where to stay in Oslo
Oslo has loads of cool hotel options, but they book up quickly, especially during the European summer.
Stay at Sommerro House for understated Art Deco luxury. Love!
Live it up at the Grand Hotel. The name says it all.
The Clarion Hotel is a good all-rounder hotel option.
05—
Bergen: Gateway to the Fjords and Historic Charm
Bergen vibes with history and coastal charm. Walk Bryggen’s wooden wharf—UNESCO certified—with its quaint shops and inviting cafes.
Ride the Fløibanen for stunning panoramas of the city and beyond. Festivals here? Total magic, with music, art, and local culture buzzing all around.
Travel tip: It rains a lot in Bergen, so take an all-weather rain jacket.
Fab things to do in Bergen
Check out this full-day tour from Bergen: scenic bus ride, a fjord cruise through UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, a stop at Flåm, and panoramic views from Stegastein.
Take this full-day tour from Bergen to the Folgefonna National Park and visit the gorgeous Glacier Lake. You won’t regret it.
Good places to stay in Bergen
Book a stay at the iconic Hotel Oleana. It’s in a lovely classic building in a central location with a fab breakfast.
The Annehelenes B&B is a cute and cosy historic bed and breakfast in the city. Originality thrown in for free!
For a girls’ trip, the charming Bergen House is a great idea.
06—
Trondheim: Historic Center and Academic Hub
Where old meets new in a lively blend. Discover the awe-inspiring Nidaros Cathedral, stroll across the Old Town Bridge, and join in the fun at cultural highlights like the cherished St. Olaf Festival.
Trondheim is a university town, so expect some lively party vibes. The weather? Be prepared for four seasons in one day. Seriously. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
What to do in Trondheim? I recommend you take a customisable tour with a local guide and experience Trondheim like a local.
Where to stay in Trondheim
My top picks?
The Britannia Hotel is a lovely, upmarket place to stay.
The Clarion Hotel is a good, more affordable option.
07—
Stavanger: Blend of Nature & Culture
Stavanger’s got a laid-back vibe with a mix of cool stuff to do. Start with a hike to Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock—it’s got some of the most stunning views you’ll ever see. Back in town, the Stavanger Cathedral is super old and worth a look.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love Fargegaten. The colorful street is packed with cute cafes and unique shops. If you’re more into nature, the nearby Lysefjord is great for a boat trip. Seriously, the scenery is next level.
Really fun things to do in Stavanger
Enjoy this RIB Boat Tour around the stunning Lysefjord and check out the famous Pulpit Rock, Whisky Falls, and so much more.
Take a sunrise hike up the stunning Preikestolen with a local guide and enjoy a breakfast buffet with dramatic views.
Places to stay in Stavanger
The RoaldsPiren Stavanger is an amazing bed and breakfast on the waterfront.
Villa Eckhoff is a charming bed and breakfast, just a 10-minute walk from the harbor.
The waterfront Hotel Victoria is a great option if you like classic charm.
Best Places for Bold Adventures
08—
Tromsø: Where Nature Meets the Sky
Gateway to the Arctic, Tromsø has it all: whale watching, dog sledding, and Sami heritage, to name a few. Winter paints the sky with Northern Lights, and endless summer days are made for hiking trails and fishing spots.
Fun things to do Tromsø
Chase the Northern Lights? Yes, please. Join Tromsø’s original Aurora hunters—20 generations!
Take a wonderful self-drive husky dog sledding adventure (the dogs and humans love it…promise!).
Enjoy a reindeer sledding and feeding tour led by a local Sami guide from the indigenous community.
Where to stay in Tromsø
Book Tromsø Lodge & Camp for boutique cabins and glass igloos. Chill under the stars with heated rooms and local style—Arctic vibes you won’t forget.
Want a more hotel experience? The Clarion Hotel The Edge is a good all-rounder hotel with a nice rooftop terrace.
09—
Ålesund: Explore Architecture and Seaside Magic
Alesund’s got that cool Art Nouveau vibe you’re going to love. After a fire in 1904, the city was rebuilt in this unique style, and it totally stands out. While you’re in town, stroll along the harbor and check out the colorful buildings.
Want a little more action? Hike up to the Aksla Viewpoint. The climb is totally worth it for panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands. Take in the natural beauty through kayaking coastal waters or hiking winding trails with epic views.
Great things to do in Ålesund
Uncover the charms of Ålesund with a local guide on this totally flavorsome food walk.
Explore the Viking heritage in the fjord region on this private tour around the Viking Islands.
Nice places to stay in Ålesund
Hotel Brosundet is a gem. It's set in an old warehouse and has a stylish, historic feel.
The Quality Hotel and Thon Hotel are excellent options at reasonable prices.
10—
Røros: Where Mining Meets Heritage Charm
Røros, a UNESCO World Heritage town, takes you back in time with its wooden buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. It’s like a living museum…and kind of like a movie set in real life.
Its festive markets are perfect for meeting artisans, enjoying traditional food, and soaking up the lively, historic vibes.
Where to stay around Røros
Røros offers boutique lodges and snug cabins with local flavor.
You can book the entire Per Amundsagården cottage at an affordable price. Great for small groups or families.
If you enjoy glamping, stay in this Arctic dome. Yes, really!
Røros Hotell is just 8 minutes outside the Røros town centre and has great amenities, including a spa and pool.
11—
Svalbard: Epic Polar Wilderness
Svalbard's got the ultimate Arctic vibes. Think polar bears, glaciers, and endless snowy landscapes. This place is perfect for anyone who’s into raw, untouched nature.
Want to see some epic wildlife? Join a guided tour—safety first when polar bears are around! Try out snowmobiling for a rush or take a boat tour to see the glaciers up close.
Exploring the ice caves is another mind-blowing experience. And if you’re there during the polar night, don’t miss out on the chance to see the Northern Lights—they’re absolutely magical.
Fabulous things to do on Svalbard
Explore glaciers, spot birds, whales, and walruses, and enjoy a short hike on the Arctic tundra on this six-hour open boat tour from Longyearbyen. Seriously epic.
Love taking photos of amazing nature? Take this Northern Lights photography tour with a local expert.
Best places to stay in Svalbard
Set in the Skjæringa area of Longyearbyen, Mary-Ann's Polarrigg is made from old rigs. Downtown Longyearbyen is just a 6-8 minute walk, and the airport bus stops right outside.
Gjestehuset 102 is a bit out of town but has a very cosy, social atmosphere and friendly staff.
Plan Your Perfect Holiday in Norway
Tips for planning an epic vacation to Norway
Norway is an incredibly safe country, but here are some tried-and-tested safety travel tips for women travelers.
Pick the season that works for you: summer’s long days shine bright, winter’s for snowy sports and auroras.
Find the right spot: urban vibes, nature havens, or adventure-focused stays.
Plan ahead: ferries are great for fjords, cars give flexibility, and flights save big on time.
Care for the outdoors—Norway’s beauty is precious. Stick to the paths, keep them clean, and leave the wildlife undisturbed.
Need more accommodation inspiration for Norway?
Browse the map below. Zoom in to see all accommodation options. Use the filters to sort by date, price, and number of people.
That’s a wrap! What do you think?
Whether you’re after epic outdoor action, cultural gems, or urban explorations, Norway’s got it all—and it’s one of my all-time favorite places to travel. Start planning now and book early for the best vacation ever.
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