Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Norway

It can be hard to pick the best sights and attractions in Norway, but if you’re planning a trip there, start with this list of 10 must-see sights and attractions.

The North Cape

Doug Pearson / Getty Images

For us, the top attraction in Norway is the North Cape. A quarter of a million tourists visit the North Cape each summer, making it one of Norway’s most popular sights. The North Cape is a monumental, natural experience offering breathtaking views, unusual climatic conditions, the dramatic cliff itself, and the chance to stand at Europe’s northern end. You’ll find the North Cape in the region of Finnmark.

The Geirangerfjord in Norway

Geirangerfjord
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The beauty of the Geirangerfjord, with its stunning waterfalls and cliffs, is hard to surpass. If you haven’t seen the Geirangerfjord, then you really haven’t seen all of Norway. This stunning location is included in many Scandinavian cruises itineraries. The Geirangerfjord is situated about halfway between Trondheim and Bergen. Popular activities include guided tours, hiking, fishing, and boating.

Changing of the Royal Guard in Oslo

Changing of the Guards in Oslo
iBestTravel / Taylor McIntyre

Address: Slottsplassen 1, 0010 Oslo, Norway

Phone: +47 22 04 87 00

This top attraction in Norway occurs regardless of the weather, making it a fantastic, free option in Oslo. Visitors can witness the “royal” event from 1:30 to 2:10 pm daily near the Royal Palace in Oslo. In summer, the event features mounted police officers and a Norwegian military band leading the guards through Norway’s capital.

The Town of Lillehammer

Lillehammer, Norway
Jorge CG / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

Most visitors to Norway remember Lillehammer from the 1994 Winter Olympics, but this charming town is a true gem even during the summer. Lillehammer attracts nature lovers year-round, offering outdoor activities and relaxation opportunities at Lake Mjøsa. If you’re driving to Lillehammer, simply follow the E6 highway in Norway. It’s a short 2-hour drive from Oslo, and it’s well worth it.

Vigeland Park in Oslo

Sculptures in Vigeland Park
iBestTravel / Taylor McIntyre

Address: Nobels gate 32, 0268 Oslo, Norway

Phone: +47 23 49 37 00

One of Oslo’s most beautiful public parks is Vigeland Park, which is also one of the top sights in Norway’s capital. Vigeland Park contains the life’s work of Gustav Vigeland, a renowned Norwegian sculptor, showcasing over 200 of his masterpieces. The park features a visitor center, souvenir shop, and café. To get to Vigelandsparken, use T-Bane Majorstuen or tram 12.

The Town of Trondheim

Trondheim
Mariamichelle / Pixabay

Founded in 997 A.D., Trondheim boasts numerous historic buildings. A self-guided walking tour starting from Trondheim’s prominent traffic circle is recommended. This circle is next to the Tourist Office and home to the Trondheim Torg, which features the world’s largest sundial made from granite.

Bryggen Wharf in Bergen

Bryggen Wharf
iBestTravel / Taylor McIntyre

Address: Bryggen, 5003 Bergen, Norway

Phone: +47 55 55 20 80

Our favorite attraction in Bergen is the old Bryggen wharf, which consists of 14th-century Hanseatic buildings. This location offers free access and serves as a fantastic photo opportunity. More than 60 buildings of the original wharf are still standing, and Bryggen is both a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top sights in Norway.

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Holmenkollen Ski Jump
Artur Debat / Contributor / Getty Images

Address: Kongeveien 5, 0787 Oslo, Norway

Phone: +47 22 92 32 00

The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is Norway’s most popular attraction for travelers, hosting FIS World Cup ski competitions yearly. However, it is not simply a sports venue; Holmenkollen is also a tourist magnet offering rich Norwegian ski history and breathtaking views of Oslo and the surrounding fjord.

The Snow Hotel in Kirkenes

Kirkenes Snow Hotel
Mark Edward Harris / Getty Images

Address: Sandnesdalen 14, 9910 Bjørnevatn, Norway

Phone: +47 78 97 05 40

The Kirkenes Snow Hotel is a top winter attraction in Norway. Starting in mid-December, this beautiful hotel offers “Snow Suites” for guests. The 20+ guest rooms are crafted from snow and ice, providing a unique experience with sleeping bags and mattresses. There is also a Snow Bar for socializing and a (snow-free) restaurant if you get hungry, along with a cozy sleeping area for guests who prefer warmth.

The Best Sights Are Free

Ice Skating, Oslo, Norway
Public Ice Skating rink in Oslo, Norway. Christian Aslund / Getty Images

Did you know you can enjoy many fantastic activities for free in the Norwegian capital and have a great time? Enjoy free events, access to maps, beaches, ice skating, parks, and much more. There are numerous options to choose from to experience the best of Oslo without cost.

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