My Top 10 Favourite Things to Do in Norway
#10 - The Munch Museum - Oslo
If you’ve ever wanted to see The Scream in person, this is where you’ll find it. In fact, there are multiple “Screams” at the museum, and they’ll only be shown during certain hours to of day to maintain them. Not only that, but there are hundreds of paintings by Edvard Munch during his time as an artist. The museum is situated in a beautiful modern-style building complete with floor after floor of intriguing designs and artistry from Munch himself along with various other famous Norwegian and international artists.
#9 - Bergen Fish Market - Bergen
Considered one of the more touristy parts in all of Norway, the Bergen Fish Market is very clean and doesn’t feel overcrowded by tourists. The fish market has been around since the 1200’s, with various stalls ranging from clams, mussels, salmon, and even whale! There are several restaurants in and around the fish market serving up dishes straight from their catch. While there, you’ll get a glimpse of the famous Bergen wharf with the colourful houses lined up together that are roughly 900 years old.
#8 - Nidaros Cathedral - Trondheim
If you have the chance to explore central Norway, you have to visit Nidaros Cathedral. This gothic-style cathedral dates back to the the year 1300 (began construction in 1070). If you know your Viking history, then you will know that it was Olav the Holy (considered the “eternal king”) who christianised Norway - and his tomb is supposedly built under this mesmerising cathedral. I love spending time just looking at the entrance, where there are depictions of monk, knights, kings, and vikings all with various objects or surprising features. I’ll leave it a surprise for you!
#7 - The Fram Museum - Oslo
When you think of Norway, what do you think of? Many would say skiing, fantastic Olympians, Vikings… and explorers. Having a sense of adventure seems to run in the very blood of Norwegians. One of the best museums and examples of this is at the Fram Museum in Oslo. It showcases the Fram, a ship (replica) that holds the record for the farthest south and farthest north of any ship. The expedition in the late 1800’s was an attempt to reach the north pole by Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen. What’s really nice about this museum is it portrays the bravery, skills, and adventure that is representative of Norwegian culture and influence. It’s also super interactive for children too!
#6 - The Rail Track Between Oslo and Bergen - Oslo/Bergen
After being on countless trains, I’m not really a fan of them, especially for long distances. So, when I purchased my ticket to take the roughly 6-hour train ride from Oslo to the Bergen area, I was not looking forward to it. However, I was blown away by the beauty of what I would see on the train ride. Many hills, mountains, fjords, and waterfalls… small brightly coloured homes, village pubs, and Anderson-style hotels. It felt like a dream traveling through the landscape. It was one of my favourite experiences and gave me a better understanding of the natural and rustic beautiful of Norway. As a side note, the trains are clean and smooth. With the longer treks, cafes are on the trains, so you won’t starve.
#5 - Trolltunga - Odda
When you travel to Norway, you don’t usually go for the cities - you go to see nature. One of the best ways to take advantage of nature is to go on a hike, and one of the most famous hikes in Norway is the Trolltunga. Keep in mind this is not for the faint of heart. You need to have at least some experience hiking. It’ll take about 7-12 hours to hike in total, so you’ll need to be prepared for all kinds of weather in addition to bringing LOTS of food and water. You can either go solo (the markers are pretty good) or you can hike with a guide. We personally chose a guide and highly recommend it (via their website). Some people just want to go so they can have the coveted selfies and social media posts, but this is not the correct reason for going and many come unprepared. Also, be careful as it can sometimes be dangerous. A few people have died on this particular hike, so it’s always good to keep watching where you’re going and to be prepared. Once you actually see the Trolltunga, it might bring you to tears of joy… or fatigue.
#4 - Viking Valley - Gudvangen
Stereotypical, but many outside of Scandinavia think of these countries as the lands of the Vikings. It’s true, though, these were the places these ruthless warriors called home. In particular, Norway is the historical country that possessed the most intense Vikings from the Viking Age. If you’ve always wanted to see what a standard Viking village would have looked like, Viking Valley should be on your bucket list. It is a historical replica with volunteers actually living in the site. You can interact with them, learn about the culture and customs, and partake in activities, such as archery, axe throwing, and wood carving. And don’t worry, these are friendly Vikings… they’ll show you how to defend yourself!
#3 - Ægir Microbrewery - Flåm
This brewery feels like you’ve stepped in time to a Viking Tavern. There’s a wide selection of mead and beer, animal fur to cosy up to, and rooms lit by candles. Often there are people (drunk I might add) singing, dancing, and enjoying life. It’s a very fun moment with family or friends to just sit back, relax, and enjoy life and friendship. This place is very busy, so you really need to reserve in advance, even just for a drink. If you’re in Flam, this is a must-do.
#2 - Værnes Kirke - Stjørdal
If you’ve been following my other blogs, you’ll know all about this one. If not, go ahead and check it out. Essentially, this is an old Viking church that was erected between 1080-1100. Many of the faded frescos and art are original and have not been well-preserved. It’s amazing because this is completely original and what the newly converted Viking Christians would have seen all those years ago. There are some other interesting facts about the church itself, but I already wrote about that in my other blog, so feel free to check it out. What makes it in my top favourites things to see in Norway is how authentic and historical it is. It doesn’t hurt too that it has a personal impact on me, as many of my relatives are buried out by this church.
#1 - Nærøyfjord - Aurland
If you’re trying to find the best fjord to see in Norway, this is considered one of the best. We recommend taking a cruise so you can see and be absorbed by the fjords around you. The striking symmetry and the beauty of the cascading waterfalls is unlike anything you’ve seen before. What better way to see Norway than by seeing what makes Norway so famous: the natural fjords. It is truly remarkable that you’ll begin to understand why so many people globally view Norway as the most beautiful country in the world for nature. It is incredibly spectacular!
