Norway is a country that is hard to describe in a single word. It is both a raw land of ice and rocks, and at the same time a place full of life, modernity, and culture. Located in northern Europe, it impresses with its contrasts: from incredible fjords cutting deep into the land, through snow-capped mountain peaks, stunning waterfalls, to green valleys and peaceful coastal towns.
It is the landscape that is Norway’s greatest treasure. Famous fjords such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attract travelers from all over the world with their monumental scale and wild beauty. In summer, the sun barely sets, offering the phenomenon of the midnight sun, while in winter the sky is illuminated by the magical northern lights, one of the most spectacular natural displays.
Norway, however, is not only about nature. It is also home to modern cities that harmoniously combine tradition with innovation. The country’s capital, Oslo, impresses with its architecture, museums, and proximity to nature. Bergen, with its characteristic colorful houses along the waterfront, is the gateway to the fjords and one of the most picturesque cities in Scandinavia. In the north lies Tromsø, known as the capital of the Arctic, an ideal place to observe the northern lights.
We have visited Norway twice. The first time, in 2002, we traveled through almost the entire country from the south all the way to Trondheim. The photos from that trip were taken before the digital era, and I wrote a full account back then on an old blog > Geoblog. The second time we visited this wonderful country was in 2025, but only for a short time, not enough to explore more than what you can read about here.
MAP OF PLACES DESCRIBED IN THIS GUIDE
Hover over the place you are interested in, and the link below will take you to the specific guide. Each individual guide is marked with a different color. The link will redirect you to the guide in Polish – just change the language to English.
NORWAY – DETAILED GUIDES
BERGEN – THE BIGGEST ATTRACTIONS >
SOGNEFJORDEN – TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF THE REGION >
FØRDE – ATTRACTIONS OF THE CITY AND SURROUNDING AREA >
NORWAY – A BRIEF HISTORY
The history of Norway is a story of courage, the sea, and a constant պայք struggle for independence. The earliest signs of settlement in these lands date back thousands of years, but the true turning point came during the Viking Age. It was then that Norwegian sailors and warriors set out on distant expeditions, reaching as far as the British Isles, Iceland, and even North America. One of the most famous rulers of this period was Harald Fairhair, who in the 9th century united scattered tribes, creating the foundation of the Norwegian state.
In the following centuries, Norway lost its independence and came under Danish rule, forming a union known as the Danish-Norwegian union, which lasted until the early 19th century. After its dissolution, the country entered a new union—this time with Sweden. It was not until 1905 that Norwegians chose full independence, peacefully ending the union with Sweden. The 20th century brought further challenges. During World War II, Norway was invaded and occupied by Germany. After the war, the country quickly rebuilt, focusing on economic and social development.
A breakthrough moment came with the discovery of oil deposits in the North Sea in the 1960s, which transformed Norway into one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Today, it is a modern constitutional monarchy, combining strong traditions with innovation and a high standard of living.
NORWAY – BASIC INFORMATION
- AREA – approximately 385,207 km²
- POPULATION – approximately 5.5 million inhabitants
- CAPITAL – Oslo
- FLAG AND COAT OF ARMS – The flag of Norway features a red background with a blue cross outlined in white (the so-called Scandinavian cross). The coat of arms depicts a golden lion holding an axe on a red background.
- SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT – constitutional monarchy. Norway is an independent state, a member of NATO, but not a member of the European Union (although it cooperates with it economically through the EEA).
- MONARCH – the current King of Norway is Harald V
- CURRENCY – Norwegian krone (NOK)
- ECONOMY – Norway is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Its economy is mainly based on the extraction of oil and natural gas from the North Sea. The country is also a leader in renewable energy (especially hydropower), fisheries, and modern technologies. Revenues from natural resources are managed by a state sovereign wealth fund, one of the largest in the world.
- LANGUAGES – Norway has two official written standards of the Norwegian language: Bokmål and Nynorsk. In the northern part of the country, Sámi languages are also used. English is widely spoken and commonly used in international communication.
NORWAY – PRACTICAL INFORMATION
WEATHER AND CLIMATE
Norway has a very diverse climate. Along the coast, thanks to the Gulf Stream, winters are milder than one might expect at this latitude. Inland and in the north, it is significantly colder. The weather can be very changeable. In a single day, you may experience sunshine, rain, and wind. It is always worth bringing layered clothing and a waterproof jacket.
- Summer (June–August): 15–25°C, the best time for sightseeing
- Winter (December–February): often below 0°C, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts
TYPICAL NORWEGIAN CUISINE
Norwegian cuisine is simple, hearty, and closely connected to nature and the climate. It is mainly based on fish, meat, potatoes, and dairy products. Many dishes have their roots in fishing and pastoral traditions.
- Norway is especially famous for high-quality fish: salmon (fresh, smoked, pickled), cod – particularly dried as stockfish, klippfisk (salted and dried cod), herring in various marinades.
- Traditional meat dishes: fårikål – Norway’s national dish (lamb with cabbage), reindeer meat – popular especially in the north, kjøttkaker – Norwegian meatballs served with potatoes and gravy.
- Dairy products. One of the most characteristic products is brunost – a brown cheese with a sweet, caramel-like taste.
- Bread and sides: crispbread (knäckebröd), potatoes as a basic side for meals, jams and preserves from wild berries.
- Holiday and regional dishes: lutefisk – fish prepared in a special way, popular in winter, rakfisk – fermented fish with a very intense flavor.
Norwegians often eat simply and quickly, but they pay great attention to the quality of ingredients. Coffee breaks and light meals during the day are common. Due to high restaurant prices, many Norwegians often cook at home or take food to work.
HOW TO GET TO NORWAY?
- BY PLANE. This is the fastest and most popular way. Direct flights from Poland go, among others, to Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger.
- BY FERRY. You can reach Norway by ferry, for example from Denmark or Germany. Popular routes include: Copenhagen – Oslo, Hirtshals – Kristiansand / Stavanger. This is a good option for people traveling by car.
- BY CAR. You can drive via Germany and Denmark or from Sweden (using bridges or ferries). The route is long but very scenic.
This is what Norway looks like from the plane on the way to Bergen airport:
HOW TO GET AROUND THE COUNTRY?
- PUBLIC TRANSPORT. Norway has a well-developed transportation system: trains (e.g., the famous Oslo–Bergen route), buses, and local ferries, as well as urban transport in major cities.
- CAR. The best option if you want to explore the fjords and less accessible places. Roads are in very good condition, but tolls and tunnel fees apply, and fuel prices are high.
- LOCAL FERRIES / BRIDGES / TUNNELS. In many areas, they are part of the regular road network — especially in the fjord regions. Some of them are paid.
- HIKING / TREKKING. Norway is a true paradise for walkers. Hundreds of trails lead through mountains, valleys, and along fjords. Thanks to the Allemannsretten law, you can freely move through natural areas and camp (while following the rules). Trails are well-marked and maintained, often managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association. Popular routes include, for example, the hike to Preikestolen (the famous “Pulpit Rock”) or Trolltunga. You can also go on glacier hikes.
- CYCLING TOURS. Norway is very bicycle-friendly, but more suitable for those with good fitness. The landscapes are spectacular, but the terrain is often mountainous and demanding. In cities like Oslo, you will find well-developed cycling infrastructure. There are special cycling routes, e.g., along fjords and through mountains. Some roads and tunnels are not accessible to bicycles.
VALUABLE TIPS AND ADVICE
- High prices. Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. It is therefore worth shopping in supermarkets and using accommodations with a kitchen.
- Payments. Payment cards are widely accepted — cash is rarely needed.
- Thanks to Allemannsretten, you can freely camp in the wild (while following the rules).
- Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, but in the mountains you should exercise caution and check weather forecasts.
NORWAY – FUN FACTS
Norway is a country full of extraordinary phenomena and unique solutions. Here are a few fun facts that may surprise you:
- POLAR DAY AND NIGHT – In the northern part of the country, especially around Tromsø, the sun does not set for several weeks in summer (polar day), and in winter it does not rise for a long time (polar night).
- NORTHERN LIGHTS – Norway is one of the best places in the world to observe the northern lights, especially in the northern part of the country.
- COUNTRY OF ELECTRIC CARS – Norwegians are world leaders in the use of electric cars; in many cities, most new vehicles are zero-emission.
- FIORDS LISTED BY UNESCO – Famous fjords, such as Geirangerfjord, are among the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
- PROXIMITY TO THE ARCTIC – Norway also includes the Svalbard archipelago, where there are more polar bears than people!
- HIGH STANDARD OF LIVING – Norway regularly ranks among the top countries in the UN’s quality of life index.
- THE WORLD’S LARGEST FUND – Oil revenues go to a state investment fund, which is the largest of its kind in the world.
- LAERDAL TUNNEL – Norway is home to the world’s longest road tunnel. The Laerdal Tunnel is over 24 km long!
- BIRTHPLACE OF SKIING – Norway is considered the cradle of modern skiing.
- OLYMPIC POWERHOUSE – Norway is the most successful country in Winter Olympic history. It has won more medals than any other nation, demonstrating its dominance in winter sports.
- CONSTITUTION OF 1814 – Norway has one of the oldest constitutions in the world, adopted in 1814.
ACCOMMODATION IN NORWAY
Norway offers a very wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to wild camping in nature. However, it is worth remembering that this is a relatively expensive country, so it is a good idea to plan your lodging in advance.
- HOTELS. In larger cities, such as Oslo or Bergen, you will find many hotels of varying standards, from budget to luxury. Prices are much higher than in other European countries.
- CABINS AND APARTMENTS (HYTTE). A very popular form of accommodation is the traditional Norwegian cabin, called a “hytte.” They are often located in beautiful, secluded places, by fjords, in the mountains, or near lakes. This is a great option for those seeking close contact with nature.
- CAMPING AND WILD CAMPING. Norway is famous for the Allemannsretten law, which allows you to freely pitch a tent in the wild (with certain rules, e.g., away from buildings). This is one of the cheapest and most unique forms of accommodation.
- HOSTELS AND LODGES. For budget travelers, there are numerous hostels and tourist lodges, often run by the Norwegian Trekking Association. They offer affordable prices and good locations, especially in the mountains.
- MOTORHOMES AND VANLIFE. Traveling by campervan is very popular in Norway. The country has well-developed infrastructure for caravanning, and the scenery along the way is among the most beautiful in Europe.
- UNUSUAL ACCOMMODATIONS. Norway also offers unique experiences, such as staying in ice hotels in the north of the country, for example around Tromsø.
When booking, we recommend using the trusted and repeatedly used portal Booking.com. Through any link on this page you can book a stay with a 15% discount!
