Deep fjords, Arctic light and some of Europe's most dramatic scenery.
Norway stretches far into the Arctic along a coastline cut by fjords. Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are UNESCO-listed, Bergen's wooden Bryggen wharf is a gateway to the west, and the Lofoten Islands rise straight out of the sea. Oslo has the Opera House and a strong museum scene, while Tromsø is a base for the far north.
Scenic journeys are part of the point: the Bergen Railway, the Flåm line and coastal ferries. Food is built on seafood, from salmon to skrei cod. It is expensive, so plan ahead. June to August brings long days and open mountain roads; from September to March the north offers northern lights, though days are very short in midwinter.
Best time to visit Norway
June, July, August.
Places to visit in Norway
Oslo: Norway's compact capital at the head of the Oslofjord, with striking modern architecture, Viking ships and forest trails on the tram line.
Bergen: Norway's second city, a rain-washed Hanseatic port of wooden wharf houses, fish markets and funiculars, and the classic base for the fjords.
Lofoten Islands: An Arctic archipelago of sharp granite peaks, white beaches and red fishing cabins, lit by the midnight sun or the northern lights.
Geirangerfjord: A narrow UNESCO-listed fjord walled by cliffs and waterfalls, reached by hairpin mountain roads or ferry from Hellesylt.
Tromsø: A lively university city well above the Arctic Circle, a favourite base for aurora hunting, whale watching and husky sledding.
Flåm: A tiny village at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, famous for the steep Flåm Railway and fjord cruises through the Nærøyfjord.
Preikestolen: The Pulpit Rock: a flat-topped cliff 604 metres above the Lysefjord, reached on a popular hike near Stavanger.
Trondheim: Norway's historic royal city, home to Nidaros Cathedral, colourful riverside warehouses and a strong university spirit.
Essentials
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Language: Norwegian; English widely spoken
Plugs: Type C / F, 230 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC+1
Tipping: Not expected; rounding up for good service is welcome
Getting around: Trains, ferries and coastal ships link the country; a car suits the fjords
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking