Touring Norway is like stepping into a real-life fairytale. With its towering peaks, pristine waters, and charming small towns, it’s no wonder this country is a top tourist destination. And while there are many incredible places to see in Norway, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best, must-see attractions. From the world’s longest coastline to the stunning landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, read on for our top tourist attractions in Norway.
The Midnight Sun
1. The Midnight Sun
In the summer months, the sun never sets in Norway above the Arctic Circle. This natural phenomenon is a spectacular sight that attracts tourists from all over the world. If you want to experience the midnight sun, head to Tromsø, Kirkenes, or any other town located within the Arctic Circle.
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway. These natural light displays can be seen in the night sky from late September to early April. The best time to see them is between 10pm and 2am.
There are many ways to see the Northern Lights. You can go on a guided tour, take a boat trip, or even stay in an Aurora Dome. No matter how you choose to see them, the Northern Lights are an unforgettable experience.
The Fjords
The fjords are one of Norway's most iconic tourist attractions. These long, narrow inlets of the sea are flanked by towering mountains and dotted with picturesque villages. The best way to experience the fjords is on a cruise or ferry ride. You can also hike, bike, or drive along their shores.
Norway's fjords were carved by glaciers during the Ice Age. They are some of the deepest and longest waterways in the world. The Sognefjord, for example, is more than 200 kilometers (124 miles) long and 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) deep.
The word “fjord” comes from the Old Norse word “fjarðr,” which means “creek, inlet, or arm of the sea.” The first fjords appeared in English literature in the early 19th century. At that time, they were spelled “fiord.”
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway. The massive rock formation is located in the Lysefjorden fjord, about 604 metres (1982 feet) above the water. Visitors can hike to the top of Preikestolen for an incredible view of the fjord below.
The hike to Preikestolen is moderate to challenging, depending on which route you take. The most popular route is the 6-kilometre (3.7-mile) round trip from the car park at Preikestolhytta. This route takes you through a forest before reaching the open plateau with views of the fjord.
If you're looking for an even more challenging hike, you can try the 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) round trip from Stavanger. This hike includes a steep climb up to pulpit rock itself, so make sure you're prepared for a more strenuous hike before attempting this route.
No matter which route you choose, make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, and wear proper hiking shoes. And don't forget your camera – the views from Preikestolen are truly breathtaking!
Geirangerfjord
The Geirangerfjord is one of Norway's most popular tourist destinations. The fjord is located in the municipality of Stranda in Møre og Romsdal county, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Geirangerfjord is one of the world's longest and deepest fjords, and it is surrounded by towering mountains. There are several waterfalls along the fjord, including the Seven Sisters Waterfall and the Bridal Veil Waterfall. Visitors can take boat tours of the fjord, hike to the top of Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), or go skiing in the nearby ski resort of Geiranger Ski Resort.
The Vøringfossen Waterfall
The Vøringfossen Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway. The waterfall is located in the Vestfold region of southeastern Norway, and it is one of the tallest waterfalls in Europe. The Vøringfossen Waterfall has a total height of approximately 180 meters (590 feet), and it consists of two tiers. The first tier is approximately 90 meters (300 feet) high, and the second tier is approximately 60 meters (200 feet) high. The average flow rate of the waterfall is about 200 cubic meters per second (7,000 cubic feet per second).
The Old Stavanger
Stavanger is a picturesque city located on Norway’s southwest coast. The city is home to a number of historic attractions, including the Old Stavanger, Gamle Stavanger. This quaint neighborhood is made up of 18th and 19th-century wooden houses, many of which have been restored and are now used as galleries, shops, and restaurants. A walk through the Old Stavanger is a step back in time, and visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring this fascinating area.
Other must-see attractions in Stavanger include the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, which chronicles the city’s oil history, and theCanal Street, a pedestrian-only street lined with boutique shops and cafes. For stunning views of the surrounding countryside, hike to the top of Pulpit Rock or take a cable car ride up Mt. Floyen. And no visit to Stavanger would be complete without sampling some of the fresh seafood for which the city is known.
Bryggen in Bergen
Bryggen is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Bergen, Norway. The site consists of a row of colorful wooden houses that date back to the 14th century. Bryggen was once the center of the Hanseatic League's trading activities in Norway. Today, the area is a popular tourist destination, with many shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can also take part in various cultural events and festivals that are held throughout the year.
The Tromsø Cathedral
The Tromsø Cathedral is the northernmost cathedral in the world, located in the city of Tromsø in Norway. The cathedral was built in 1861 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway. The cathedral is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Conclusion
If you're looking for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure, Norway is the perfect destination. From world-famous fjords to towering mountains and pristine glaciers, there's so much to see and do in this beautiful country. And with so many incredible tourist attractions to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this list of the top 10 tourist attractions in Norway, to help you plan your trip. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Norway!