We earn commissions from some links, which funds our independent research. Our recommendations are never influenced by partnerships. Editorial guidelines

Norway Travel Guide

Quick Answer

Norway is a popular European travel destination with its capital Oslo. Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK). Language: Norwegian. Top cities include Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø.

Capital: Oslo
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK), ~11 NOK = €1
Language: Norwegian (English spoken fluently by most Norwegians)
Time Zone: CET (UTC+1)
Driving Side: Right
Emergency Number: 112

Plan Your Norway Trip

Book Everything for Norway

Compare prices from top providers.

Top Cities in Norway

Oslo

Modern capital with world-class museums, waterfront dining, and Nordic cuisine

Bergen

Gateway to the fjords with colorful Bryggen wharf and mountain funiculars

Tromsø

Arctic gateway for Northern Lights, midnight sun, and polar adventures

Lofoten

Dramatic Arctic islands with fishing villages, surfing, and mountain peaks

Stavanger

Gateway to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Lysefjord

Norway is nature on an epic scale. Its fjords — deep, glacier-carved inlets flanked by sheer cliff walls — are among the planet's most awe-inspiring landscapes. From the Arctic north to the gentle south coast, Norway delivers experiences that redefine what travel can be: Northern Lights dancing overhead, midnight sun illuminating mountain peaks, and vast wilderness stretching in every direction.

The western fjords are Norway's defining feature. Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are UNESCO-listed, while Sognefjord (205km long, 1,300m deep) is the country's largest. Bergen, the gateway to fjord country, is itself a highlight with its colorful Bryggen wharf, fish market, and surrounding mountains accessible by funicular.

Northern Norway is a world apart. Tromsø offers Northern Lights in winter and midnight sun in summer, along with Arctic Cathedral and a surprisingly vibrant bar and restaurant scene. The Lofoten Islands are among Europe's most dramatic landscapes — jagged peaks rising from Arctic seas, red fishing cabins (rorbuer), and empty white-sand beaches that would look at home in the Caribbean were it not for the snow-capped mountains behind them.

Norway is undeniably expensive, but much of its best content is free. The allemannsretten (right to roam) allows camping and hiking almost anywhere. Oslo's waterfront, Bergen's harbor walks, and countless mountain trails cost nothing. The Hurtigruten coastal voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes is one of the world's great sea journeys, combining transportation with spectacular scenery along the entire Norwegian coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Norway very expensive?

Yes, Norway is one of Europe's most expensive countries. Alcohol and dining are particularly costly. Save money by self-catering, using cabins (hytter), camping freely under allemannsretten, and packing lunches for day trips.

What is the best time to visit Norway?

June-August for fjords, hiking, and midnight sun. September-March for Northern Lights. May and September offer fewer crowds and still-good weather. Winter offers skiing and Arctic experiences.

How do I see the fjords?

Bergen is the fjord gateway. Options include fjord cruises, the Norway in a Nutshell tour, scenic driving routes, or kayaking. Flåm Railway and Geirangerfjord are the most famous experiences.

What is allemannsretten?

Allemannsretten (right to roam) is a Norwegian law allowing free access to uncultivated land. You can hike, camp, and swim almost anywhere as long as you respect nature and private gardens. It makes Norway incredibly accessible for outdoor activities.

Plan Your Complete Trip

✈️ Flights

🏨 Hotels

🚗 Car Rental

🛡️ Insurance

BTS

BestTravelScout Editorial Team

Our editorial team researches and verifies travel information across Europe, combining data analysis with on-the-ground experience.

Prices verified against official provider websites. We compare 25+ providers across 25 European countries. Data updated quarterly.

✅ Independently researched 🔄 Updated quarterly 🔍 Our methodology
About our team →