The Best Places in Norway – 13 Beautiful locations that will take your breath away!

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I think we can all agree that Norway is home to some incredibly beautiful destinations. Whether they are cities or villages, mountainous areas or farmland, there are so many beautiful places to visit in Norway.

Naturally, I have my own opinions when it comes to the best places in Norway, but at the same time; I haven’t been everywhere. That’s why I decided to call out for some help from some fellow travel bloggers who have all been to Norway!

They have all sent me their photos and opinions on what are the best places to visit in Norway, and so I hope this post can be a great guide for anyone wondering where to go in Norway.

Side note: if you want a post more specifically aimed at the Norwegian fjords, here is my guide to the best fjords in Norway!

Some of these destinations are absolutely breathtaking, and I believe they should all be on your bucket list. Out of all the places in Norway you should visit, these are some of the most breathtaking destinations. So, whether you are currently planning an upcoming trip to Norway, or just want to spend some time dreaming away to this beautiful country, I know you’ll like this post.

Read my complete travel guide to Norway here

This post has been published in Norwegian here.

The 13 best places to visit in Norway, according to travellers who have been there

What makes me extra excited about this post is that every single one of these bloggers are avid travellers who love to explore and find new places. Having grown up in Norway myself, it is often difficult to see the country from a visitor’s side, and I tend to take many of Norway’s beautiful places for granted. That’s why I truly believe that this post shares the absolute best places to visit in Norway!

Read this next: My step-by-step guide to planning the perfect Norway vacation!

So, without further ado, I give you some of the most stunning destinations in Norway to add to your bucket list!

The Best Places in Norway

Please bear in mind that the list is numbered, but that does not mean that these Norwegian destinations are ranked. They are listed at random, and each are unique in their own way. All together, they make up the ultimate list of the best places in Norway! 

Did you know that I have written an eBook about Norway? It’s a travel guide to Aurland, Flåm and the fjord where I grew up, and I wrote it to help you plan your perfect trip to the area I call home! Find out more here!

#1 Tromsø

Located in the northern part of Norway, Tromsø is tucked in a maze of stunning fjords that create a unique scenery. Its favorable geographic position (close to the Arctic Circle) make it one of the most preferred spots for Aurora Borealis viewers. It is possible to watch the Aurora even walking the streets of Tromsø (if there’s a strong Aurora), while for better Light displays it’s preferable to go out of the town on a tour to avoid light pollution.

In addition to this, the Sami culture is still very present in the Lapland region and you can witness some of their traditions while exploring a reindeer farm, or even join a dog sledding activity. Eventually, the seals from the Polaria Center will try to befriend you for a piece of bread.

Many other fishermen villages are spread throughout the fjords around Tromsø (i.e Kvaløya Island). Their little red wooden houses create a colorful scenery, having the serrated line of the mountains as a dramatic backdrop. It is very possible to drive the car and suddenly see a reindeer walking down the road – yes, this is something very normal for Lapland!

— Iuliana from Authentic Travels

Popular Tours in Tromsø:

#2 Aurland

You didn’t think I’d publish a list of the best places in Norway and not include my own hometown? The village where I grew up is one of the most beautiful places in Norway (in my humble opinion), and I love telling people about it and showing photos from home when I’m out travelling.

Aurland is a village located just a 10-minute drive from the better-known Flåm, where you can find the famous Flåm Railway. What most people don’t know is that Aurland is actually the name of the municipality of the whole area, and that technically, the village of Flåm is located in Aurland. What I love most about growing up here is that there are so many great things to do in Aurland, in addition to several sustainable experiences!

Visiting Aurland will allow you to get close to the beautiful Sognefjord, yet away from the hustle of Flåm, where it can get quite busy in the summer. From Aurland you can also jump on a fjord cruise to Gudvangen, which will take you through the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Nærøyfjord.

If you are hoping to see Aurland and the Nærøyfjord, and are flying into Oslo or Bergen, my Norway itineraries will help you plan your trip!

— Myself, Lisa from Fjords and Beaches

#3 The Nærøyfjord

It would be a crime not to visit the Nærøyfjord when in Norway. There, I said it. UNESCO has listed it as a World Heritage Site for a reason.

As an arm of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, the Nærøyfjord is the wildest and narrowest fjord in Norway. The Nærøyfjord cruise takes you through striking cliffs, forest-clad steep mountainsides, never-ending cascading waterfalls, marine wildlife, and quaint fjord villages. The fjord is bordered by towering cliffs on both the sides making the passage utterly narrow that you can even reach out the waterfalls.

There are many ways to experience this lovely fjord viz. cruise, boat tours, and kayak tours. Kayaking is hands-down best way to explore the Nærøyfjord. I’d recommend taking a fjord safari tour if you are traveling with kids. Most of the tours depart from the Flåm and Gudvangen harbors. Hit one of the well-marked hiking trails to enjoy the exquisite fjord views from the mountaintop lookout points.

The dramatic and beautiful Nærøyfjord settings inspired the kingdom of Arendelle in the movie Frozen. The Nærøyfjord is sure to take your breath away no matter what time of the year.

Here’s how you can experience the Nærøyfjord by booking the Norway in a Nutshell tour on your own!

— Anjali from Travel Melodies

#4 The Atlantic Road

Unlike other parts of Norway, part of the “Wow” factor of the Atlantic Road is that it’s man-made.  This unique road is just 8 kilometres long but hugs the Norwegian coast in a series of stunning bridges. 

The Atlantic Road has National Tourist Route status and connects Averøy with the mainland over 8 bridges, which spans across a series of islands and islets. 

In spring and summer the road is calm with wild flowers flanking the verges but come the winter it is a different place completely.  When buffeted by a storm from the northwest it is wild with waves and foam breaking over the road.

The road extends beyond this small stretch and joins Kristiansund with Bud and Molde, a journey with nature and stunning scenery around every corner.  Take your time and stop at the well maintained parking and viewing spots.  Even though they are busy it is possible to escape and find your own corner and landscape.  

— Suzanne from Meandering Wild

#5 Trolltunga

Fancy sitting at the tip of a large rock formation with your feet dangling 700m above a crystal blue fjord? That’s Trolltunga, one of the most famous hikes in Norway!

Trolltunga, which means Troll’s Tongue in Norwegian, was my ultimate Norwegian adventure. I went just before the hiking season kicked up which meant there was a lot of snow still on the ground that made the hike all the more challenging.

Hiking Trolltunga pushed my body to the limits and gave me a black toenail for about a year afterwards! Gross, I know, but I called it my battle scar and was for a while a weird souvenir that reminded me daily of one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way!

The 23km round trip hike starts by taking you up a rather steep  hill before leading you up and over a mountain where you meet with the rim of an enclosed lake called Ringedalsvatnet. This magical spot here is just a taster of what’s to come later. It just gets better and better!

Following its edge around to the far end, your final destination is a massive rock formation hovering over above the fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountain. Be sure to allow a couple of hours here to enjoy the view over a packed lunch.

But don’t leave without this once in a lifetime photo opportunity. Put on a brave face and head out to sit or even star jump on the tongue itself!

Depending on the time of year, the hike will vary in difficulty. In May, thick snow will still be on the ground making the hike much more challenging and slower. The upside, of course, is there are significantly fewer hikers around. But don’t worry, the trail is well marked just look out for large red T’s painted on boulders along the way. For the best conditions, aim for late August-September.

The hike will take 9 – 11 hours depending onconditions and your fitness level so it’s advised you start the climb no laterthan 10am. Want to know more? Don’t miss my ultimate guide to Hiking Trolltunga.

— Michele from the Intrepid Guide

#6 Kjeragbolten

Kjeragbolten is a very unique and stunning place in Norway. People are always amazed when I show them pictures of me standing on top of the rock 1000 metres above Lysefjorden. It was one of the scariest experiences in my life to stand there, but it felt amazing! (However, if you are unsure or are very scared of heights you shouldn’t risk your life and comfort for a photo.)

The hike to the rock itself is beautiful, so I would highly recommend it. You will walk through a very diverse Norwegian landscape, and you will see waterfalls, meadows, snow and streams along the way. The water quality in Norway is great, so we had no issue refilling our water bottles from the streams. The 12 km round trip hike should take you about 7 hours and it can easily become your favourite, thanks to the stunning views you will get along the way.

— Eniko from Travel Hacker Girl

#7 Kvalvika, Lofoten

Kvalvika Beach is a beautiful beach on the Lofoten Islands in Norway, only accessible by foot or boat. This sandy beach is flanked by towering dark granite cliffs and overlooks the Norwegian Sea.

The hike to the beach takes approximately two hours and can be done in a loop, including a climb up the mountain Ryten. It is certainly worth the effort to get to Kvalvika Beach on any trip to the Lofoten Islands. Your efforts are rewarded with magnificent views and the opportunity for a dip in the sea!

Kvalvika Beach is a beautiful beach on the Lofoten Islands in Norway, only accessible by foot or boat. This sandy beach is flanked by towering dark granite cliffs and overlooks the Norwegian Sea. The hike to the beach takes under two hours. It is certainly worth the effort to get to Kvalvika Beach on any trip to the Lofoten Islands. Your efforts are rewarded with magnificent views and the opportunity for a dip in the sea!

To extend this hike continue on and climb the mountain peak, Ryten. The route up from the beach is strenuous but the views back down are breathtaking. This hike has all the ingredients of a perfect Lofoten hike: beautiful views across the mountains and fjords, a gorgeous white sandy beach, and a ‘mini Trolltunga’, an outcrop of rock for those perfect Instagram pictures! The entire loop walk takes approximately five hours.
Kvalvika Beach is a popular camping spot and many come for an unspoilt view of the midnight sun over the sea during the summer months.

— Nicky from Go Live Young

Planning your own trip to Lofoten? Here are some of my self-drive itineraries!

#8 Fornebu

The small beach, behind The Radisson Blu Hotel, Fornebu, Oslo has a serene and magical feeling to it. As I walked down the narrow pathway, between trees, to reach the sandy area I was amazed at the most crystal-clear waters I ever saw. The reflection of the white clouds upon the water looked like something from a postcard. The beach was empty, but I could watch ferries go by in the distance. All I could hear was the gentle movement of the still water and chirping of birds. I laid on the beach and lost all track of time in such a peaceful and relaxed state. One of the best moments of my life.

I would recommend Fornebu to people who are interested in a relaxing, laid back place….with not too many people around but so much beautiful nature. Fornebu has a small selection of bars and restaurants  and of course the huge Telenor arena which is a famous venue for music events and performances with the capacity for 23,000 people. Fornebu is only 20 minutes away by bus to Oslo city centre where you will find more shops, bars, restaurants, museums and attractions.

— Kelly from Travelling Mama

#9 Odda

If you are heading to Trolltunga, Odda is a lovely little town that you will no doubt pass through, if self-driving from Bergen. Located in the Southeastern Hordaland county of Norway and like many of the towns and cities in Norway, Odda has beautiful mountain vistas and waterfalls that leave every visitor in awe and I am sure the locals wonder just how lucky they are to have amazing backdrops to wake up to every morning.

We had the pleasure of waking up so such delights as our camping spot was just on the shores of Sandvinvatnet. Sandvinvatnet, a beautiful lake just east of Buerdalen valley and Buarbreen glacier. This means amazing waterfalls around the town and also along the roadsides resulting awe-inspiring journeys as you explore surrounding areas. If you are a lover of photography there is plenty to be captured. If you are a lover of adventure and the great outdoors this is a playground for all ages!

You can camp, bring a camper van or RV and set them right in front of mother nature’s amazing paintings. This is definitely a town not to be missed in Norway.

— Bianca from It’s All Bee

#10 Bergen

Bergen is the second largest city of Norway and the best gateway to explore Norway’s fjords. It was founded over 3 centuries ago and played an important role in the Hanseatic League. The old harbor of Bryggen dates to that time and is Bergen’s biggest attraction. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Norway’s oldest fort Bergenhus is also part of this inscription. Bergen has a small city center with plenty of museums, restaurants and other sights. From north to south or west to east is just half an hour by foot. You’ll for sure pass the fish market where, if you want, you can have a taste of whale. If you plan a visit to Norway, make sure to add Bergen to your itinerary.

Plan 3 days or even more if you want to go out of the city and hike one of the many easily accessible hiking trails. Bergen is best visited during late spring, summer, and early autumn as in winter daylight is short.

Head this way to read my complete guide to what to do in Bergen.

— Chris from Chris Travel Blog

#11 Hamnøy, Lofoten

The Lofoten Islands are a spectacular part of Norway. When the summer sunshine glistens on the clear, blue waters, you’ll wonder if you’re still in Norway or the Caribbean. White sand beaches cap coves tucked away between the fishing villages that dot these Norwegian islands. 

One of the most beautiful fishing villages in Norway and the oldest of the Lofoten Islands is Hamnøy. Red, yellow and green wooden fishing houses sit on stilts along the shore of the rocky outcrop of an island. It’s a place straight off a postcard and worth visiting when you’re in the Lofoten Islands. 

— Jennifer & Tim from Luxe Adventure Traveler

#12 Preikestolen

Setting off around 2am, we began the trek to the top of Pulpit Rock. This hike in the south of Norway offers beautiful views across Lysefjord, and we decided to start in the middle of the night to catch the sunrise at the summit.

The track is well-graded, mostly stone steps, but it can get muddy and slippery in bad weather so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. It’s only 6km, but after a gradual ascent to begin, the track then heads straight up. 

Sweaty, with our chests heaving as we slugged one foot in front of the next, we finally approached the summit, where the huge rock – Preikestolen – juts out over the fjord. Exhausted, we huddled together to keep warm as we watched the orange light rise above the hills, bathing the entire fjord in a magical glow.

The sky was clear. We overheard a nearby tour guide tell his group that, of the hundreds of times he had hiked this path, only twice had he seen both the sun and the moon in the sky at the same time. We smiled to ourselves – beyond grateful for our experience.

— Abbi from Spin the Windrose

Head this way to read my ultimate guide to the Pulpit Rock hike!

Want more? Preikestolen is on the list of top things to do in the Stavanger area!

#13 Geiranger

Geiranger is one of the most beautiful places on earth! I don’t say it easy, but as soon as I saw Geiranger, I realized that never seen anything like it. In summer, most of the fjord is green, with snow on the mountain tops. And all this has enormous proportions, a passing cruise ship looks tiny next to the nature.

In summer, it is very easy to organize a trip around one of the most beautiful places of Norway. Geiranger, Trollstigen and Alesund are all within one area, all within a few hours reach. But my recommendation would be – plan your stay in Geiranger!

— Alexander from Engineer on Tour

There you have some of the best places in Norway, as told by travel bloggers who have all been there. Have you visited some of these Norwegian destinations? Or did you add any to your list? Let me know in the comments below, and please share this post with your friends if you enjoyed it!