Landscape of waterfall in Norway with cabin

NORWAY

From deep fjords and high waterfalls to quiet lakes and vast mountain plateaus: Norway is a land of raw nature, gentle light, and endless space. An ideal destination for hikers, photographers, and travelers who enjoy discovering in silence.

Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Time Zone
CET / UTC+1

Language
Norwegian, excellent English

Payment
Nearly cashless, cards everywhere

Power Plug
Type F (European standard)

Norway is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and photographers. From deep blue fjords and snow-capped peaks to the dramatic Lofoten Islands and magical Northern Lights – Norway offers landscapes found nowhere else on Earth. With more than 1,100 fjords, numerous glaciers, and endless wilderness, this Scandinavian country is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Norway’s iconic hikes are among the most spectacular in the world. Trolltunga (the Troll’s Tongue), a rock formation jutting 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, is legendary. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) offers breathtaking views 604 meters above the Lysefjord, while Kjeragbolten – a boulder wedged between two cliffs – provides a nerve-wracking photo opportunity. Lesser-known routes like Romsdalseggen near Åndalsnes and the Besseggen ridge in Jotunheimen also offer unforgettable experiences.

The land of the Midnight Sun (May-July above the Arctic Circle) and the Northern Lights (September-March) offers unique experiences year-round. Bergen, the colorful ‘Gateway to the Fjords’, is a perfect base for fjord cruises and train journeys on the famous Flåm Railway. The Lofoten Islands with their dramatic mountain peaks, picturesque fishing huts, and surf beaches are a must for photographers. And for those seeking true wilderness: the Hardangervidda plateau (Europe’s largest high mountain plateau) is home to wild reindeer and untouched nature.

Norway embraces nature with the unique ‘allemannsretten’ (right to roam) – the freedom to hike anywhere and wild camp for up to 48 hours. Crystal-clear tap water (bring a reusable bottle!), well-maintained DNT mountain huts, and a safe society make Norway an ideal destination. Yes, it’s expensive, but the natural beauty and adventurous possibilities are priceless.

travel stories

My Norway Stories

Read more about the destinations in beautiful Norway.

Landscape of waterfall in Norway with cabin
Between Silence And Stone

I’m a huge fan of the Nordic Countries. The landscape has something to it that [...]

Destinations in Norway

No locations found for this trip.

Frequently Asked Questions about Norway

What is the best time to visit Norway?
It depends on what you want to do. For hiking and fjords: June to September (July being warmest). Famous hikes (Trolltunga, Preikestolen) are only snow-free from June to September. For the Midnight Sun: June-July above the Arctic Circle. For Northern Lights: September to March in Northern Norway (Tromsø, Lofoten). For winter sports: December to April.
Do I need a visa to visit Norway?
EU/EEA citizens can enter Norway with a valid ID card or passport. Norway is not an EU member but is part of Schengen and the EEA, so there are no border controls from other Schengen countries. Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can stay up to 90 days without a visa. Note: ETIAS authorization may become mandatory from 2026.
Can I pay with euros?
No, Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK). However, card payments (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere – Norway is nearly cashless. Even small shops and mountain huts usually accept cards. Cash is rarely needed; ATMs are mainly found in larger towns. American Express has limited acceptance.
How do I get to Norway?
By air to Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, or Tromsø (about 2 hours from major European cities). By ferry: Color Line sails from Germany/Denmark; Fjord Line from Denmark. DFDS connects Copenhagen to Oslo. A rental car is recommended for exploring the fjords – roads are spectacular but winding. Trains (Vy) connect major cities, including the famous Bergen Railway (Oslo-Bergen) and Flåm Railway.
Do I need a power adapter?
For most European travelers: No, Norway uses Type F plugs (European standard with two round pins and grounding clips). Travelers from the UK, US, Australia, or other non-European countries will need an adapter. Voltage is 230V, same as continental Europe.
Is Norway expensive?
Yes, Norway is one of the world’s most expensive countries. Supermarkets cost 50-100% more than in most European countries. Dining out and accommodation are pricey. Budget tips: cook your own meals, use DNT cabins or campsites, and take advantage of ‘allemannsretten’ – you can wild camp for free! Tap water is excellent and drinkable everywhere.
What is ‘allemannsretten’?
The ‘allemannsretten’ (right to roam) is unique to Norway. You can hike anywhere – even on private land (if not fenced) – and wild camp for up to 48 hours, as long as you stay at least 150 meters from dwellings. You must respect nature: leave no trace, don’t make fires in dry conditions, and don’t disturb wildlife.

Climate & Best Time to Visit

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Norway has a much milder climate than you’d expect at this latitude. The coast is relatively mild; inland and northern areas are colder with more snow. Weather is changeable – especially on the west coast (Bergen receives a lot of rain). The south and east (Oslo region) have warm summers and cold winters. The temperatures below are averages for Southern Norway; the north is colder.

Month Temp (°C) Rainy Days Sun Hours Suitable For
January -5 to 1 10-15 1-2 Northern Lights, winter sports, husky sledding
February -5 to 2 8-12 2-3 Northern Lights, skiing, polar nights ending
March -2 to 5 8-12 4-5 Winter sports, longer days, Northern Lights
April 2 to 10 8-12 6-7 Transition season, waterfalls (snowmelt)
May 7 to 15 8-10 8-10 Spring, blossoms, first hikes
June 10 to 20 8-12 10+ Midnight Sun, hiking, fjords
July 13 to 22 10-14 8-10 Warmest month, all trails open
August 12 to 20 10-14 7-8 Hiking, berry picking
September 8 to 15 10-14 5-6 Autumn colors, fewer crowds, Northern Lights begin
October 3 to 10 12-16 3-4 Autumn, Northern Lights, cities
November -1 to 5 12-16 1-2 Northern Lights, winter sports begin
December -4 to 2 12-16 0-1 Christmas atmosphere, polar nights (north), winter sports

Tip for photographers: The Midnight Sun (June-July above Arctic Circle) offers endless ‘golden hour’ light. Northern Lights are best seen September to March in the north (Tromsø, Lofoten). Autumn colors in September are spectacular. Note: famous hikes (Trolltunga, Preikestolen) are only snow-free from June to September – outside this period, a guide is required.

Useful Links

A collection of helpful websites for planning your trip to Norway.

Official Tourism

National Parks & Nature

Hiking

Transport

Weather

  • Yr.no – Norwegian weather service, very reliable
  • Storm.no – alternative weather service

Accommodation