Norway’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and endless outdoor adventures make it a must-visit destination this year. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, exploring majestic fjords, or experiencing Viking history, this Nordic gem offers something for every traveler. With sustainable tourism on the rise and more unique experiences available than ever before, now is the perfect time to plan an unforgettable journey. From hidden scenic routes to vibrant city life, the best activities in Norway cater to nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and history enthusiasts alike. Keep reading to uncover the most exciting things to do in Norway for an unforgettable adventure.
Hike to Trolltunga for a Jaw-Dropping Cliffside View
Sheer cliffs, glacial lakes, and one of Norway’s most iconic viewpoints make this adventure unforgettable. The 28-kilometer round-trip trek to Trolltunga isn’t for the faint-hearted, but the reward is a panoramic scene unlike any other—an overhanging rock suspended 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. Starting from Skjeggedal, the well-marked trail winds through rugged terrain, crossing streams and offering glimpses of dramatic fjords. Weather conditions shift quickly, so proper hiking gear is a must. Summer months provide the best experience, with extended daylight and safer paths. For those seeking a less strenuous option, guided hikes with shorter routes via Mågelibanen funicular are available. Camping near the summit is an option for early risers eager to witness sunrise over the breathtaking cliffside. Reaching the edge of Trolltunga is an exhilarating moment, perfect for capturing a once-in-a-lifetime view of Norway’s untamed wilderness.
Sail Through the Geirangerfjord and See the Seven Sisters Waterfall
Towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls define Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most picturesque UNESCO-listed sites. A fjord cruise is the best way to experience its grandeur, offering unobstructed views of steep mountain walls and lush valleys. The highlight of the journey is the legendary Seven Sisters Waterfall, where seven distinct streams plunge 250 meters into the fjord below. Opposite stands the Suitor waterfall, adding to the folklore that captivates visitors. Kayaking provides an even closer encounter with the fjord’s pristine beauty, while hiking trails like Skageflå offer panoramic vantage points. Visiting in late spring or summer ensures the falls are at peak flow, fed by melting snow from surrounding peaks. Photographers will find endless opportunities as the fjord’s landscape shifts with light and weather changes. Whether aboard a ferry or a private boat, sailing through Geirangerfjord remains one of Norway’s most breathtaking natural experiences.
Ride the Flåm Railway, One of the World’s Most Scenic Train Journeys
Steep gradients, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain landscapes make the Flåm Railway a marvel of engineering and scenery. This 20-kilometer train route climbs nearly 866 meters from the fjord-side village of Flåm to Myrdal, passing through 20 tunnels and offering views that seem almost unreal. One of the most striking sights along the way is Kjosfossen Waterfall, where passengers can step out to witness the roaring cascade up close. Built in the early 20th century, this railway was originally designed to connect remote regions but has since become one of Norway’s top travel experiences. The journey is especially enchanting in summer when lush greenery surrounds the tracks or in winter when snow blankets the landscape. For an even more immersive adventure, pair the ride with a fjord cruise through Aurlandsfjord or a cycling route back down to Flåm. Every turn delivers a postcard-perfect view of Norway’s rugged beauty.
Walk on the Arctic Circle’s Saltstraumen Bridge and Watch the World’s Strongest Tidal Current
Nowhere else on Earth do ocean currents rage as powerfully as at Saltstraumen. This narrow strait near Bodø witnesses the world’s strongest tidal whirlpools, where over 400 million cubic meters of seawater rush through a 150-meter-wide channel every six hours. Standing atop Saltstraumen Bridge provides a front-row seat to this natural phenomenon, where swirling maelstroms form as tides collide. Best viewed during peak tidal shifts, the currents reach speeds of up to 20 knots, creating vortexes up to 10 meters in diameter. Local boat tours offer an even closer look, navigating the surging waters safely with experienced guides. For fishing enthusiasts, Saltstraumen is also known for its abundant cod, halibut, and coalfish. The Arctic landscape surrounding the bridge adds to the allure, with rugged coastlines and mountain backdrops making this a must-see spectacle in northern Norway.
Explore the Colorful Wooden Bryggen Wharf in Bergen
History and charm come alive at Bryggen, the historic Hanseatic wharf lining Bergen’s waterfront. With its vibrant, leaning wooden buildings, this UNESCO-listed site dates back to the 12th century when it served as a key trading hub for the Hanseatic League. Today, its narrow alleyways lead to boutique shops, artisan workshops, and museums that preserve the city’s maritime heritage. The Hanseatic Museum provides insight into the lives of medieval merchants, while hidden courtyards reveal remnants of centuries-old architecture. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, where seafood restaurants offer local delicacies like fresh salmon and Bergen’s famous fish soup. Rain or shine, Bryggen’s colorful facades reflect beautifully against the harbor, making it one of Norway’s most photographed locations. Nearby, the Fløibanen funicular transports visitors to Mount Fløyen, offering sweeping views over Bergen’s cityscape and fjords. Walking through Bryggen feels like stepping into a living piece of Norwegian history.
Drive the Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway’s Most Dramatic Coastal Highway
Stormy waves, rugged islets, and serpentine bridges make this engineering marvel one of the world’s most exhilarating drives. Stretching 8.3 kilometers between Kristiansund and Molde, the Atlantic Ocean Road weaves through an archipelago, offering breathtaking views of the Norwegian Sea. The Storseisundet Bridge, with its dramatic curve, appears almost like a roller coaster, especially when seen from certain angles. Weather plays a huge role in the experience—on calm days, the ocean sparkles under the Nordic sun, while during storms, massive waves crash over the road. Several viewpoints and rest areas, such as Eldhusøya, allow travelers to pause and absorb the coastal scenery. Autumn is a prime time for spotting migrating seabirds and even whales offshore. Whether driving in a rental car, cycling, or taking a guided tour, this short but spectacular route showcases Norway’s raw beauty and remains a bucket-list road trip for travelers worldwide.
Stay in a Glass Igloo in Northern Norway and Watch the Northern Lights
Sleeping beneath the Arctic sky with the aurora dancing above is an experience unlike any other. Northern Norway offers glass igloos designed for uninterrupted views of the Northern Lights, combining comfort with nature’s most mesmerizing spectacle. Located in regions like Tromsø, Alta, and Senja, these heated domes feature panoramic ceilings, ensuring that guests can witness the auroras from the warmth of their beds. The best time for viewing is between September and March when the skies are darkest, and solar activity peaks. Some accommodations include husky sledding or reindeer safaris for an authentic Arctic adventure. Away from city lights, the remote locations maximize visibility, making it a photographer’s dream. Even if the auroras remain elusive, the serene landscapes of snow-covered fjords and frozen lakes create an unforgettable stay. Booking in advance is crucial, as these exclusive igloos are in high demand throughout the winter season.
Visit the Abandoned Mining Town of Pyramiden in Svalbard
Once a thriving Soviet settlement, Pyramiden now stands frozen in time, offering an eerie glimpse into Arctic history. Located on Spitsbergen in Svalbard, this ghost town was abandoned in 1998 after its coal mine shut down. Today, it remains remarkably preserved, with Soviet-era buildings, statues of Lenin, and rusting industrial structures still intact. Guided tours reveal fascinating details about life in this remote outpost, from the grand cultural center to the empty swimming pool once used by workers. The Arctic wilderness surrounding Pyramiden adds to its mystique, with polar bears occasionally seen near the ruins. Accessible only by boat or snowmobile from Longyearbyen, this isolated destination offers a surreal contrast between human ambition and nature’s dominance. Despite its abandonment, the settlement retains a small hotel where adventurous travelers can spend the night, experiencing firsthand what it’s like to stay in one of the world’s northernmost ghost towns.
Hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and Stand Above the Lysefjord
Standing 604 meters above Lysefjord, this dramatic cliff rewards hikers with one of Norway’s most breathtaking panoramic views. The 8-kilometer round-trip hike to Preikestolen takes about four to five hours, winding through rugged trails, wooden walkways, and rocky plateaus. The final stretch opens up to a sheer drop with no railings, offering an adrenaline-fueled moment for those who dare to sit at the edge. Best tackled between May and September, the hike requires proper footwear, as weather conditions can change rapidly. Sunrise and sunset hikes offer a quieter, more surreal experience, with golden light reflecting off the fjord below. For a unique perspective, boat tours along Lysefjord reveal the towering cliff from the water. With its combination of accessibility and jaw-dropping scenery, Preikestolen remains one of Norway’s most famous hiking destinations, drawing adventurers from around the world to witness its unforgettable viewpoint.
Discover the Snowhotel in Kirkenes and Sleep in an Ice-Carved Room
Carved entirely from ice and snow, this Arctic retreat offers a winter experience like no other. Located near Kirkenes in Northern Norway, the Snowhotel is rebuilt each year with new designs, featuring intricate ice sculptures, frozen corridors, and even a bar serving drinks in ice glasses. Each room maintains a steady temperature of around -4°C, but thick thermal sleeping bags ensure a warm and comfortable night’s rest. Guests can enjoy activities like king crab fishing, husky sledding, and northern lights tours. The hotel’s restaurant serves traditional Arctic cuisine, including reindeer and fresh seafood, making it a culinary highlight of the visit. For those who prefer warmth, cozy cabins styled after Sami hunting lodges offer an alternative stay. Operating from December to April, the Snowhotel provides an unforgettable overnight experience in one of the most remote and pristine winter landscapes in Norway.
Walk on the Stegastein Viewpoint’s Glass Platform Over Aurlandsfjord
Suspended 650 meters above Aurlandsfjord, this architectural marvel extends 30 meters from the mountainside, offering unobstructed views of Norway’s fjord landscape. The glass platform at Stegastein creates a thrilling sensation of floating above the valley, making it a must-visit for those seeking a panoramic perspective. Accessible year-round, the viewpoint is a short drive from Flåm along the winding Aurlandsfjellet National Tourist Route. In summer, lush green fjords stretch endlessly, while winter transforms the scenery into a snow-covered masterpiece. Tour buses operate regularly from Flåm, but driving allows for a more flexible schedule and stops at other scenic overlooks. Photographers will find this spot ideal for capturing Norway’s dramatic fjords, especially at sunrise or sunset. Despite its altitude, the platform is safe for all visitors, with a sturdy design that enhances the breathtaking experience of standing above one of Norway’s most picturesque fjords.
Paddle Through the Nærøyfjord on a Kayaking Adventure
Gliding across mirror-like waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, kayaking through Nærøyfjord offers an unmatched fjord experience. This UNESCO-listed site, one of the narrowest fjords in Norway, provides a serene yet exhilarating journey as paddlers navigate its calm waters. Guided tours depart from Gudvangen, ensuring a safe and informative trip through the dramatic landscape. Wildlife encounters, including seals, porpoises, and sea eagles, add to the adventure. Summer months provide optimal conditions, with extended daylight and mild temperatures, though drysuits are available for colder seasons. For those seeking a multi-day experience, camping along the fjord’s shoreline enhances the connection with nature. Kayaking offers a perspective impossible to achieve from a cruise, allowing travelers to appreciate the scale and silence of Nærøyfjord up close. Whether solo or in a group, this journey delivers an unforgettable immersion into Norway’s pristine wilderness.
Take the Loen Skylift for a Panoramic View of Fjords and Glaciers
Rising 1,011 meters in just five minutes, the Loen Skylift delivers one of Norway’s most spectacular aerial ascents. This cable car, located in the Nordfjord region, transports visitors from the village of Loen to the summit of Mount Hoven, revealing sweeping views of fjords, mountains, and glaciers. At the top, a network of hiking trails caters to all skill levels, with paths leading to viewpoints overlooking the turquoise waters of Nordfjord and the surrounding Jostedalsbreen National Park. The on-site Hoven Restaurant offers traditional Norwegian cuisine with an unbeatable backdrop. Sunset rides provide a golden glow over the landscape, while winter transforms the area into a snowy paradise perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. Open year-round, the Loen Skylift is an essential stop for travelers looking to experience Norway’s raw beauty without an intense hike, making it accessible for adventurers of all ages.
Explore the Underground Marble Caves of Bergtatt
Hidden beneath Norway’s rugged mountains, the Bergtatt marble caves offer a surreal underground adventure. This former mining site, now a guided attraction, features crystal-clear subterranean lakes illuminated by soft blue lighting. Visitors board silent electric boats to glide through the water-filled caverns, passing massive marble formations and hidden passageways. The caves maintain a steady temperature of around 6°C year-round, making warm clothing essential. Located near Molde, Bergtatt is accessible via a short drive and guided tours must be booked in advance. The tour includes insights into the cave’s geological history and mining past, adding depth to the visual spectacle. Some visits conclude with a meal inside the caves, where acoustic performances occasionally enhance the experience. The calm, reflective waters and towering rock walls create an almost otherworldly atmosphere, making Bergtatt a unique stop for those exploring Norway’s lesser-known natural wonders.
Experience the Midnight Sun in the Lofoten Islands
Golden light stretching across the horizon at midnight is a phenomenon few places on Earth can offer. In the Lofoten Islands, from late May to mid-July, the sun never fully sets, bathing dramatic peaks, fishing villages, and Arctic beaches in continuous daylight. This natural event allows for endless outdoor adventures, from late-night kayaking in Reine to hiking the iconic peaks of Ryten and Reinebringen under an ethereal glow. Photographers find the soft, never-fading light perfect for capturing the islands’ rugged beauty. Local culture thrives during this period, with festivals and seafood feasts adding to the experience. Evenings spent at Rorbu cabins—traditional fishermen’s huts—provide an authentic connection to the region’s maritime heritage. While the Midnight Sun is most striking in Lofoten, other Arctic regions like Tromsø and Nordkapp also offer spectacular views. Experiencing this endless daylight is one of Norway’s most unforgettable seasonal wonders.