Information about Norway

Geography and history Regions and resorts Nature Climate Transport Money and shopping Attractions Tourism Accommodation Kitchen Culture Weather Map

Geography and history Norway

Norway stretches out as a long, narrow strip of land in the northernmost part of Europe, sharing its eastern borders with Sweden, Finland, and Russia. To the west, the country meets the vast North Atlantic Ocean with a coastline that seems to go on forever, broken up by countless inlets and islands. This land is rugged and dramatic, filled with high mountain plateaus and deep valleys where thick forests grow. You can still find massive glaciers here that are leftovers from the last ice age, such as Folgefonna and Hardangerjøkulen. Among them is Jostedalsbreen, which holds the title of the largest glacier on the mainland of the European continent.

The fjords are perhaps the most famous part of the Norwegian landscape, and they really are a sight to see. These narrow, winding waterways were carved out by ancient glaciers and are surrounded by incredibly steep cliffs that drop straight into the water. There are nearly 1,200 of these fjords scattered along the coast and around the Svalbard islands. The Sognefjord is the deepest and most impressive of them all, plunging down to a depth of 1,308 meters below the surface. This unique geography makes Norway one of the most mountainous places in all of Europe, with the Scandinavian Mountains running like a spine from the north to the south.

Galdhøpiggen stands as the highest peak in the country and in the whole of Scandinavia, reaching up 2,469 meters into the sky. Besides the mountains, the country is home to several major rivers that have shaped the land over centuries. The Glama is the longest river in Norway, but others like the Dramselva, Lågen, and the Tana way up north are just as important to the local geography. Oslo serves as the bustling capital and has been the seat of power since 1814. It is the largest city in the country, housing the government and the national parliament. If you walk down the main street, Karl Johans gate, you will eventually reach the Royal Palace at the very end.

When people think about Norwegian history, the Viking Age usually comes to mind first, spanning from the 9th to the 11th centuries. These people were incredible sailors and explorers who expanded their influence across Northern Europe through both trade and raids. They didn't just stay in Europe, though, as they settled in large parts of Greenland and established presence in Britain and Ireland. Things began to change in the 11th century when Olav I became the first Christian king of the country. He played a huge role in moving the nation away from old Norse beliefs and toward Christianity.

By the end of the 14th century, Norway joined a union with Denmark and Sweden, but this alliance didn't last forever. Sweden left in the early 1500s, leaving Norway as part of the Danish Kingdom for several centuries. Following the Napoleonic Wars, the country was handed over from Denmark to Sweden under the Treaty of Kiel in 1814. It wasn't until 1905 that Norway finally regained its full independence as a sovereign nation. During the First World War, the country managed to stay neutral, but it was occupied by German forces during the Second World War. After that conflict ended, Norway became a founding member of the United Nations, though it has chosen not to join the European Union.

Regions and resorts Norway

Nature Norway

Norway is famous for having some of the most striking natural scenery on the planet, with views that can take your breath away at every turn. It is also a sanctuary for some truly beautiful animals, many of which are quite rare and hard to find anywhere else in the wild. The country takes nature conservation very seriously, which is why there are 44 national parks protecting these wild spaces. A bit more than a quarter of the land is covered in thick forests, mostly made up of hardy conifers. However, you will also find trees like lime, hazel, elm, maple, ash, and oak growing in different regions.

Up in the northern tundra, the landscape shifts to smaller plants like juniper and willow, along with various types of ferns. While the winters are long and dark, the Norwegian summer brings a sudden burst of life and vibrant color to the land. The beaches, mountain slopes, and meadows become covered in a blanket of flowers, bushes, and trees. During these warmer months, thousands of insects emerge to find food and shelter among the lush vegetation. There are actually about 2,000 different types of flowering plants that call this country home.

If you are lucky, you might spot some of the iconic animals that live in these wild areas, like the arctic fox or the sturdy musk ox. In the far north and on the islands, polar bears roam the ice, and reindeer are a common sight across the snowy plains. The waters are just as full of life, with rivers and coastal areas teeming with salmon, trout, pike, and herring. Commercial and local fishing often focus on cod and mackerel, which are staples in the region. The oceans surrounding the coast are home to dozens of large marine mammals that are fascinating to watch.

If you spend time near the water, you might see one of the six species of seals or even some of the 30 different types of whales that visit these shores. Dolphins and porpoises are also very common and can often be seen jumping through the waves. For bird lovers, the Atlantic puffin is one of the most colorful and beloved sights along the rocky cliffs. You might also spot the white-tailed eagle soaring high above the fjords looking for its next meal. Even though it is quite far north, Norway still has a small population of reptiles and amphibians.

There are six types of land reptiles and six species of amphibians that manage to survive in this climate. Every now and then, a massive leatherback sea turtle might wash up or visit a coastal beach, which is a rare but amazing event. Loggerhead sea turtles also occasionally make an appearance along the shoreline. In certain areas, you can even find the northern crested newt living in small ponds and wetlands. All of these creatures, from the tiny insects to the giant whales, make the Norwegian wilderness a truly diverse and special place to explore.

Climate Norway

The weather in Norway can be incredibly different depending on where you are, mostly because the country covers such a long distance from south to north. You might find that flowers are starting to bloom in the southern regions while a fierce winter is still holding on tightly in the arctic north. The entire coastline benefits from the Gulf Stream, which brings warm water and prevents the sea from freezing. This current gives a large part of southern Norway a relatively mild climate with winters that are cold but manageable and summers that feel quite comfortable.

One of the most magical things about being here is the chance to see the northern lights, a season that runs from October until the end of March. Many people believe that you haven't truly experienced the heart of the country until you have seen how it changes through every season. Summer is definitely the time when most travelers choose to visit, especially between June and August when the sun is out. Even though it is the warmest time of year, many places actually get the most rain during these months, so you should expect some cloudy skies.

During the summer, the average temperatures usually sit somewhere between 13 and 18 degrees Celsius. When January rolls around, the mercury often hovers near 2 degrees, which is actually perfect for people who love skiing and other winter sports. In most cities, the typical winter temperature stays right around freezing or drops just a little bit below. The coastal towns sometimes stay even warmer than that, keeping their averages above zero. However, it can get much colder in the inland areas, where temperatures have been known to plummet to minus 40 degrees.

If you head to the west coast, particularly around the city of Bergen, you should probably bring an umbrella because it rains there throughout the year. For the rest of the country, especially the areas away from the sea, the wettest months are usually September, October, and November. Rain can happen at any time, of course, but that autumn period is consistently the dampest. The amount of daylight you get is another thing that changes drastically based on the calendar and your location. In the far north during the winter, the sun might not rise at all for a while, a phenomenon known as the polar night.

In the summer, those same northern areas get to experience the midnight sun, where the sun stays up for a full 24 hours. Down in the south, the difference isn't quite as extreme, but it is still very noticeable to visitors. Southern residents enjoy about 16 hours of daylight in the peak of summer, while winter days shrink down to just about six hours. Most people find that the best time to plan a trip is during the early summer months of June and July. The weather is usually at its best and the days are long, though this is also when the most tourists are around. Even in the colder months, there is plenty to do if you don't mind the short days and the biting chill.

Transport in Norway

Getting around Norway is surprisingly easy thanks to a very reliable public transportation system that reaches almost every corner of the country. You will find an extensive network of buses, trains, ferries, and even planes to help you move between cities and remote villages. There are many different companies operating these services, with some focusing on local routes and others handling long-distance travel. Every city has its own local bus network, and there is a huge web of express buses that connect the major hubs. These express routes are great for getting to airports, ferry docks, and different city centers.

If you are looking for a subway system, you will only find one in the entire country, and that is the T-bane in Oslo. However, several cities like Oslo, Trondheim, and Bergen have great tram systems that make it easy to get around downtown. In Bergen, there is even a famous funicular that takes people up the mountainside for a great view. The railway network is also very well-developed, running all the way from Kristiansand in the south up to Bodø, which sits above the Arctic Circle. Many of these train journeys are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, passing through mountains and along the edges of fjords.

For those who prefer to have their own wheels, you can rent a car in almost any city or at the larger airports. It is usually best to book these online ahead of time, but you can also walk into a rental office or go through a travel agency. Taxis are available as well, though they can be quite expensive compared to other options. Most people try to avoid them since the public transport is so good, but you can find them at stands or hail them on the street. In the bigger cities, you can also just call one up or use a mobile app to arrange a ride.

Because Norway has so many islands and deep fjords, ferries are often the only way to reach certain isolated coastal villages. Taking a ferry is also one of the best ways to actually see the landscape from the water, which is a highlight for many visitors. There are many different operators running both car ferries and high-speed passenger boats along the coast. If you are in a hurry or heading to the far north, flying is a very common choice. With over 50 airports across the country, even the most remote northern towns are just a short flight away. The three biggest airlines that handle these domestic flights are SAS, Norwegian, and Widerøe.

Money and shopping in Norway

The currency you will use while traveling through Norway is the Norwegian Krone. You won't have much trouble paying for things, as almost every shop and restaurant accepts major credit and debit cards. This is especially true in the areas where tourists usually go, so you don't always need to carry much cash. If you do need some paper money, ATMs are very easy to find in cities and towns. It is usually best to exchange your money at a bank to get a fair rate. While hotels often offer exchange services, they usually charge more or give you a less favorable deal.

Shopping here is a lot of fun because you can find items that are truly unique to this part of the world. One of the most famous things to bring home is a bottle of Linie Aquavit, a traditional spirit often called "firewater" by the locals. You can also find beautiful, authentic wool sweaters that come from the traditional valleys of the country. If you have a sweet tooth, you should definitely try the local chocolate or the interesting salty liquorice that people here love. Other popular souvenirs include Viking-style drinking vessels, small troll figurines, and even reindeer sausages for the more adventurous foodies.

You might also see Solje jewelry, which is part of the traditional folk costume, or items decorated with Rosemaling, a beautiful style of floral painting. Knitting is a massive part of the culture and has been for hundreds of years. Every region seems to have its own specific patterns that they are proud of. One of the most recognizable designs is the Selbu pattern, which you will often see on thick wool mittens. Viking-themed items are everywhere, ranging from simple trinkets to very high-quality jewelry. These pieces are often very stylish and elegant, making them a great way to remember the history of the region.

If you enjoy hunting for treasures, you should check out the many vintage and second-hand shops scattered throughout the country. You can find all sorts of cool old things, from leather suitcases and bags to classic kitchenware and home decor. When it comes to food, you absolutely have to try Gjetost, which is a special kind of brown cheese. It is made from a mix of cow and goat milk and has a naturally sweet, almost caramel-like flavor. Norwegians are very proud of this cheese, and it is a staple on many breakfast tables.

Another world-famous product is the smoked salmon, which comes from the cold, clean waters of the local fjords. It is prepared using traditional smoking techniques that have been passed down for generations. If you want something simpler, a high-quality t-shirt with a local design is always a good choice for a gift. For those who love stories, a book of traditional Scandinavian folk tales is a wonderful way to dive into the local culture. These stories are a huge part of the national identity and make for a perfect keepsakes or gifts for friends back home.

Main attractions Norway

When you first look at a map of Norway, you see a long and narrow stretch of land that seems to go on forever, reaching far into the cold north. It is a country of incredible contrasts, where sleek modern cities give way to some of the most dramatic natural landscapes you will ever encounter. From the southern coast up to the remote villages hidden far above the Arctic Circle, there is a constant sense of wonder. You can spend your days wandering through trendy urban neighborhoods and your nights watching the neon green swirls of the northern lights dance across the sky. It is the kind of place that rewards those who love to explore every corner, whether it is a quiet fishing harbor or a vibrant city square.

The nature here is really the main event, and nothing illustrates this better than the deep, winding fjords. These massive waterways were carved by ice long ago and are now recognized as a vital part of the world’s shared heritage by organizations like UNESCO. Among all of them, Geirangerfjord usually stands out as the one people talk about the most. It is worth taking the time to join a local guide who can show you the hidden spots along the water or, if you are feeling brave, driving the Trollstigen mountain road. This road is famous for its sharp bends and the incredible views you get from the top, looking down over the valley.

However, the landscape is not just about the sea and the cliffs. There is also an unbelievable amount of water falling from the sky in the form of waterfalls. It is quite a statistic to realize that almost half of the world’s twenty tallest waterfalls are located right here in Norway. Voringsfossen is perhaps the most iconic of them all, as it plunges down a series of drops for about one hundred and eighty meters. It creates a mist and a roar that you can feel in your chest as you stand nearby. The glaciers are another massive draw for visitors, with Briksdalsbreen being a site that truly humbles anyone who stands before its ancient blue ice.

Moving further north, you eventually reach the North Cape, which feels like the very edge of the world. Standing on this monumental cliff provides a perspective on the ocean that you simply cannot find anywhere else. Back in the city of Bergen, you have to take the funicular up Mount Floyen. It runs throughout the day and whisking you up to a height where the entire city and the surrounding sea open up before you. It is a perfect spot to just sit and take in the layout of the coastal landscape.

In the capital, there is a place called Vigeland Park that is truly unique because it was the lifework of just one man, Gustav Vigeland. It holds over two hundred sculptures made from bronze and granite, all laid out in a way that tells a story about human life. Further out at sea, the Lofoten Islands offer a different kind of beauty with their jagged mountain peaks and tiny fishing villages that look like they belong in a painting. This Arctic archipelago is home to white sandy beaches and a variety of wildlife that makes it feel like a wild, untouched paradise. Finally, there is Tromso, located hundreds of kilometers above the Arctic Circle. Since the 1800s, it has been the starting point for some of the most famous polar expeditions in history, and it still keeps that spirit of adventure alive today.

Tourism in Norway

Norway has a way of making history feel very alive, especially when you walk through its cities and see the grand buildings that have stood for centuries. The Royal Palace in Oslo is a great example of this, serving as a symbol of the nation’s journey through the years. Not far from there, you can find the Oslo Cathedral and the sturdy stone walls of Akershus Fortress, which has protected the harbor for generations. If you want to dig deeper into the past, the city is full of fascinating places like the Resistance Museum or the Historical Museum. One of the most special sites is the Urnes Stave Church, an ancient wooden structure that shows the incredible craftsmanship of early builders.

But beyond the museums and old buildings, the country is essentially one giant outdoor playground for anyone who loves excitement. It is a world-class destination for people who want to do more than just sit around and look at the scenery. Depending on the time of year, you can find people hiking through the mountains, cycling along the coast, or heading out onto the water in a boat or a kayak. When the snow starts to fall, the focus shifts to skiing and other winter sports that the locals are so passionate about. There is also plenty of room for those who enjoy the quiet thrill of fishing in a clear mountain stream.

If you are looking for a bit more adrenaline, the mountains offer some of the best spots in the world for hang gliding or paragliding. The feeling of floating over a deep fjord with the wind in your face is something that stays with you forever. The mountain scenery is dominated by high peaks, some of which are still covered by glaciers, while others are sharp rocky spires that challenge even the most experienced climbers. To protect these environments, the government has created numerous national parks that cover huge areas of the wilderness. These parks are very accessible, with well-marked trails that cater to everyone from casual walkers to serious explorers.

For those who want to experience the water from a different angle, getting into a canoe or a kayak is the way to go. It allows you to get close to the shoreline and see the details of the rocks and the plants in a way you can't from a large ship. If you prefer something faster, the rivers here are legendary among the international rafting community. There are dozens of routes that provide different levels of difficulty, ensuring that both beginners and experts can find a challenge. The variety of the river systems means there is always a new stretch of water to discover.

The coastline is so long and complex that it creates a perfect environment for cold-water diving. With thousands of islands and deep inlets, the marine life is incredibly diverse and the water is surprisingly clear. Divers come from all over to see the underwater forests and the unique creatures that live in these northern latitudes. During the winter, the focus turns back to the slopes, where you can find some of the steepest runs and highest ski jumps in Europe. The vertical terrain is also a dream for ice climbers and mountaineers who enjoy the physical challenge of the rugged landscape.

Fishing is another major part of the culture here, whether you are out on the open Atlantic or sitting quietly by a lake. The variety of fish in both salt and fresh water is impressive, and it is a popular way for people to connect with nature. Whether you are looking for a massive catch in the ocean or just a peaceful afternoon by a river, the options are endless. It is this combination of historical depth and endless physical activity that makes the country such a compelling place for travelers who want to experience everything.

Accommodation in Norway

One of the most moving experiences you can have in this part of the world is a wildlife safari. The natural environment is so well-preserved that it remains a sanctuary for many majestic creatures. If you have ever dreamed of seeing a whale in its natural habitat, this is the place to be. Throughout the summer, several species of whales frequent the coastal waters, including huge sperm whales and acrobatic humpbacks. You might also spot pilot whales, minke whales, or even the highly intelligent orcas. It is not uncommon to see dolphins playing in the wake of boats along the coast, adding to the sense of wonder that the sea provides.

When it is time to find a place to stay, the options are just as interesting as the landscape itself. You are not just limited to standard hotel rooms. You can choose to stay in historic hotels that sit right on the edge of a fjord, or opt for a modern boutique hotel in the heart of a city. There is a huge range of prices and styles, from luxury resorts to simple mountain lodges. What is really interesting is that even the more budget-friendly options, like campsites, often come with views that would cost a fortune in any other country.

For those looking for something truly out of the ordinary, there are some very unique accommodations tucked away in remote areas. For instance, you could spend a night in one of the many lighthouses that dot the coast. About sixty of these historic structures have been converted into places where you can book a stay and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. Another popular trend in the north is the ice and snow hotel. These are built fresh every year and offer a chance to sleep on warm reindeer skins in a room made entirely of frozen water, often with the northern lights visible just outside.

If you prefer the forest to the sea, you might want to try staying in a treehouse. There are cozy cabins built high up in the branches in several parts of the country, allowing you to wake up to the sound of birds and the rustle of leaves. It is a great way to experience the total silence of the woods while still having a comfortable bed to sleep in. These kinds of stays help you feel much more connected to the environment than a typical city hotel ever could.

For travelers who are more focused on keeping costs down, there are hundreds of hostels and guest houses available. These are great for families or solo backpackers who want a clean and friendly place to rest without spending a lot of money. You can find these in almost every town, and they often serve as a hub for meeting other travelers and sharing stories about your journey. They provide a more social atmosphere that many people find more enjoyable than a traditional hotel stay.

Camping is also a huge part of the local culture, with around a thousand different campsites scattered across the land. Even near the bigger cities, you can find high-quality camping areas just a few kilometers from the center. Many of these sites offer small wooden cabins that you can rent, which is a great middle ground between a tent and a hotel. These cabins can range from very basic shelters to well-equipped little homes with their own kitchens and bathrooms. Glamping has also become popular, offering a more luxurious way to camp without giving up any modern comforts while you enjoy the great outdoors.

Kitchen and dishes Norway

The way people eat in Norway has been shaped by the rugged land and the cold sea that surrounds it. For centuries, people had to rely on what they could catch, grow, or preserve, which led to a very distinct culinary tradition. While you will see regional differences as you travel from the south to the north, there are some things that stay the same everywhere. There is a huge emphasis on fresh fish, and you will often notice a unique balance of sweet and sour flavors in many dishes. Modern Norwegian cooking is often a mix of these old traditions and newer international influences.

Seafood is definitely the star of the show, and it shows up on the dinner table several times a week for most families. While fish like cod, salmon, and mackerel are the most common, you will also find plenty of shellfish on the menu. One of the most famous ways to prepare salmon is called gravlax, which is cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and plenty of fresh dill. Dill is actually a very important herb in the local kitchen and appears in many different recipes. You will also find that many meat and fish dishes are served with a side of lingonberry jam, which adds a bright, tart flavor that cuts through the richness of the food.

Bread is another essential part of the daily diet, especially the hearty, whole-grain varieties. When it comes to vegetables, the staples are potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and peas. These are often served simply, boiled or mashed, to accompany a main course of meat or fish. It is simple, honest food that is designed to keep you full and warm. If you visit the coastal areas, you will definitely encounter herring. It is prepared in every way imaginable, whether it is smoked, fried, or pickled in various sauces. People here have a deep love for herring that goes back generations.

One of the most interesting traditional foods is called torrfisk, or stockfish. This is unsalted fish, usually cod, that has been dried by the cold air and wind on large wooden racks. This method of preservation has been used since the 12th century and remains a major export today. For a warm and filling meal during the winter, many people turn to farikal. It is a simple but delicious stew made with mutton and cabbage, and it is considered a classic comfort food. There is also a famous fish soup from Bergen that is creamy and delicate, often compared to the best seafood soups in the world.

When it comes to dessert, there is a lot to get excited about. Norwegian cakes are often quite elaborate and are treated like pieces of art. The most common one you will see at celebrations is the blotkake, a soft sponge cake filled with cream and fruit. However, the one that many people call the best in the world is the Kvafjordkake. It is a delicious combination of sponge, meringue, vanilla cream, and almonds. It is so popular that some people consider it to be the unofficial national cake. These sweets are the perfect way to end a meal and are a big part of the local social life.

Culture and traditions Norway

The history of this land goes back to the time of the Vikings, and that ancient heritage still influences the culture today. While the people are known for being hardworking and perhaps a bit reserved at first, they have a deep connection to their traditions and their land. You won't often find loud or flashy public displays; instead, life tends to revolve around the home and the great outdoors. Families spend a lot of their free time together, whether they are out camping in the woods or hitting the slopes for a day of skiing. There is a real respect for nature that is built into the way people live their lives.

In terms of religion, the Lutheran church has the deepest roots in the country, but people are generally very open and tolerant of all different beliefs. This sense of openness extends to the way the society functions as a whole. The official language is Norwegian, which sounds quite similar to Swedish and Danish. It has two different ways of being written, known as Bokmal and Nynorsk, which reflects the different historical influences on the country. Even though the population is relatively small, the artistic output is surprisingly large and diverse, covering everything from classic literature and music to modern painting and electronic beats.

Folklore is another area where the culture really shines. Because different groups of people have lived here for so long, there is a rich collection of legends and myths. Most of these stories involve trolls or elves that are said to live deep in the mountains and forests. These aren't just old stories for children; they are a part of the national identity and you will see references to them everywhere. The music also draws on these long traditions, with folk songs and instrumental pieces that have been passed down through families for hundreds of years. You can still hear these traditional sounds in the work of many modern musicians.

Sports are a huge deal here, and as you might expect, winter disciplines are the most popular. It seems like everyone knows how to ski almost before they can walk, and the country has produced many world-class athletes in various snow sports. However, people also love team sports like football and handball, which draw big crowds and lots of participation at the local level. Whether it is a professional match or just a group of friends playing in a park, sports are a major way that people stay active and connected to their community.

Throughout the year, there are all sorts of festivals and events that bring people together. Some of these are dedicated to music, while others focus on theater or local heritage. You can find jazz festivals in the Arctic, film festivals in the cities, and even events dedicated to ice music where the instruments are carved from frozen blocks of water. There are also celebrations that honor famous literary figures or traditional crafts. These gatherings are a great way to see the creative spirit of the people and to experience the unique atmosphere that makes this country so special.