Overview
Norway is a Nordic gem renowned for its dramatic scenery, from vast fjords and glacial peaks to picturesque coastal towns and vibrant, modern cities. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering unforgettable experiences like hiking through national parks, witnessing the Northern Lights, and cruising along UNESCO-listed fjords. With its rich Viking history, cutting-edge architecture, and warm hospitality, Norway offers the perfect blend of adventure and culture.
Just a short flight from the UK – around 2 hours from London to Oslo, Norway is surprisingly accessible for a long weekend or a full itinerary-packed escape. While it’s often considered a high-cost destination, you can absolutely travel smart here. Using public transport, staying slightly outside major city centres, and mixing in supermarket meals with occasional treats can make a big difference to your overall budget.
Norway is ideal for nature lovers, solo travellers, couples, and families alike. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring Viking ships, kayaking on a fjord, or soaking in the midnight sun, there’s something here for everyone.
📍 Top Places to Visit:
Oslo – Cultural capital with museums, parks, and fjord-side charm.
Bergen – Gateway to the fjords, with colorful waterfront houses and mountain views.
Tromsø – Best for Northern Lights and Arctic adventures.
Lofoten Islands – Dramatic coastal scenery and fishing villages.
Geirangerfjord – UNESCO-listed fjord with incredible viewpoints.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, great for hiking and fjord cruising.
Winter (December–March): Best for snow sports and Northern Lights.
Shoulder seasons: Fewer crowds, but variable weather.
💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
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Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
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Credit cards widely accepted.
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Norway is expensive – consider budget-friendly tips like buying food from supermarkets or using public transport.
🧳 Good For:
Outdoor enthusiasts
Adventure travelers
Nature photographers
Slow travel / scenic train lovers
Families (especially in summer)
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try:
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Rakfisk – Fermented fish (for the brave!)
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Lutefisk – Dried fish in lye, a Christmas delicacy
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Kjøttkaker – Meatballs with gravy and potatoes
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Brunost – Brown cheese with a sweet, caramel taste
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Skillingsboller – Norwegian cinnamon rolls
✈️ How to Get There:
Major airports: Oslo (OSL), Bergen (BGO), Tromsø (TOS)
Flights from most major UK cities; direct from London to Oslo
Scenic train and ferry routes also available from neighboring countries
🚍 Getting Around:
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Excellent train network (e.g., Oslo to Bergen line)
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Ferries along the coast and between fjords
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Rental cars useful for rural areas or Lofoten Islands
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette:
Language: Norwegian, but almost everyone speaks English
Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up is appreciated
Punctuality and personal space are valued
My Norway Highlights
I visited Oslo in August, and the city greeted me with a mix of sunshine and rain – typical for the season, so I definitely recommend packing layers and a waterproof jacket if you’re visiting at that time of year! For my stay, I chose an Airbnb in Grorud, a residential district just outside the city centre. It was a bit more affordable than staying in central Oslo, which really helped stretch my budget.
What I loved about Grorud was how well-connected it was by public transport – the trains and buses made it easy to get anywhere in the city quickly. There was also a local supermarket nearby, so I could pick up groceries and prepare simple meals, which is ideal if you’re travelling on a budget or want a more local living experience.
From Oslo Airport, I took the Flytoget Airport Express Train to Oslo Central Station, which cost 240 NOK (~£18) for a one-way ticket. After arriving, I switched to a local train to reach Grorud. To navigate the city, I downloaded the Ruter app, which was incredibly helpful. I used it to buy tickets and plan my travel on buses, trams, trains, and ferries – all within the same app. A 24-hour travel pass cost around 121 NOK (~£9), which was great value for unlimited rides.
One of my favourite experiences was walking on top of the Oslo Opera House, a stunning piece of architecture where you can walk up the sloping roof and enjoy panoramic views over the Oslofjord. Another standout moment was kayaking on the fjord. The activity cost around 590 NOK (approximately £45) and offered a completely different perspective of the city from the water.
I also spent a day island hopping using the local public ferries. The ferries are included in the Ruter travel pass and are a fantastic way to see more of the Oslofjord. I visited Hovedøya, known for its monastery ruins and scenic trails; Gressholmen, which is quieter and great for nature walks; and Lindøya, a picturesque island dotted with colourful wooden cottages. Just make sure to check ferry times in advance – schedules can be limited, especially outside of peak season.
Frogner Park, home to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, which features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, is also another must see. It’s open all day and completely free to visit. Oslo offers a variety of museums – a great way to spend your time if it’s raining! The Bygdøy Peninsula, includes the Viking Ship Museum (was under renovation when I visited), the Fram Museum, which showcases polar exploration history, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, an open-air museum featuring historic buildings and Norwegian folk traditions.
No trip to Oslo is complete without a stroll through the Old Town – a quieter district full of charm, cobblestone paths, and remnants of the city’s medieval past. For a quick snack, I couldn’t resist trying a Norwegian classic at Haralds Vaffel – a waffle topped with sour cream, brown cheese, and jam. It may sound like a strange combination, but it was absolutely delicious!
You’ll find a curated selection of the best activities and tours in Norway below – from fjord cruises to Northern Lights safaris.
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