Discover 12 unforgettable things to do in Norway

A suspension bridge that stretches across a lush, green forest in Puerto Rico, surrounded by tropical foliage.

 Sailing on the waters of Geirangerfjord and taking in its surrounding scenery should be on everyone’s Norway bucket list.

It’s difficult to pick just twelve things to do in somewhere as all-encompassing as Norway. In fact, it would be difficult to narrow it down to 100 or so, such is the wealth of what’s on offer. For starters, Norway is pure heaven for anyone interested in the natural world – glaciers, waterfalls and fjords are everywhere you look, and there are opportunities to see phenomena such as the Northern Lights. There’s also cutting-edge art and culture to be found in the many museums, galleries and sculpture parks, plus culinary greatness from Michelin-starred cuisine to Scandinavian pastries and world-class coffee. In short, there’s not much you can’t find here and you won’t run out of things to do in Norway anytime soon. As a place to start, here’s our pick of the best places to visit, with unforgettable sights and experiences from around the country.

Table of contents

1. Cruise through Geirangerfjord

Norway Geirangerfjord © Matt Lamers/Unsplash
Norway Geirangerfjord © Matt Lamers/Unsplash.

You’re never short on choice in Norway when it comes to fjords, but this marvelous example is probably the country’s most famous. You’ll understand why after you hop on a ferry that weaves through the area’s breathtaking landscapes. Dramatic mountains tower over you, waterfalls appear at every turn and lush greenery gives everything a verdant glow. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet – and a very calm and tranquil one at that.

2. See eye-catching outdoor art

The Vigeland Park in Oslo scenic view
The Vigeland Park in Oslo scenic view.

Vigeland Park in Oslo is the largest sculpture park in the world to exhibit works by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. It’s also widely considered one of the best places to visit in Norway, with people traveling from around the globe to get a look at the artist’s thought-provoking take on life. There are some brilliantly unique and eccentric creations to discover dotted around the park’s 80 acres, including The Monolith, a 17m-high tower carved from one stone block into 121 human figures. Find out more about Vigeland’s sculptures on a Princess guided walk of the park.

3. Explore bohemian Bergen

The quaint wooden shopfronts in Bryggen, Bergen © Millie Olsen/Unsplash
The quaint wooden shopfronts in Bryggen, Bergen © Millie Olsen/Unsplash.

You may hear it referred to as ‘Norway’s second city’, but there’s nothing second-rate about this handsome place. Maritime history runs deep throughout Bergen, which can be seen on a visit to Bryggen, the city’s former wharf, with its colorful wooden houses. But Bergen is also a thoroughly modern city offering numerous shops, top-notch art galleries, Scandi-cool coffee shops and first-rate restaurants and bars. Catch the highlights on a Princess half-day tour covering the best of the city.

4. Hunt out the Northern Lights

Perk up at Tim Wendelboe coffee house © Dorothee Brand
Perk up at Tim Wendelboe coffee house © Dorothee Brand.

If you’re visiting Norway during autumn, winter, or early spring, take advantage of your timing to witness the Norway Northern Lights, an incredible natural phenomenon. The regions and islands around northern Norway, including Tromsø, Lofoten Islands, Alta and Honningsvag, are your best bet for spotting the Northern Lights, which fills the skies with swathes of swirling colors.



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5. Sip some of the world’s best coffee

A winding trail through the Guánica Dry Forest, leading to the stone ruins of Fuerte Caprón with sweeping views of the coastline.
Step back in time on the Fuerte Caprón Trail, where history meets nature in Puerto Rico’s rare dry forest.

Norwegians take their coffee very seriously, so it’s no surprise that the capital, Oslo, is filled with fantastic cafés. If you want to sample something truly special, head to Tim Wendelboe, a cozy, super-stylish café where the coffee is hailed by some industry experts as the best on the planet. Former World Barista Champion Tim Wendelboe knows a thing or two about java and has created some exceptional brews that every coffee lover should try before leaving Oslo.

6. Combine nature and city style in Stavanger

Stunning views await across monumental fjords in Stavanger.
Stunning views await across monumental fjords in Stavanger.

Although it’s Norway’s fourth-largest city, Stavanger also boasts an amazing array of natural wonders. The imposing Lysefjord is nearby, and overlooking it from 604m above is the famous Preikestolen (‘Pulpit Rock’), which provides unrivaled views across the region. Enjoy both sights from the sky on a Princess helicopter tour, before investigating Stavanger’s other charms. These include some of Norway’s best beaches, Michelin-starred dining and excellent cocktail bars, where you can relax after all that outdoor sightseeing.

7. Take in the views from Mount Fløyen

Admire the views of Bergen from atop Mount Fløyen © Robert Harding/Robert Harding
Admire the views of Bergen from atop Mount Fløyen © Robert Harding/Robert Harding.

One of the many great things about Bergen is its mini mountain, Mount Fløyen, which offers fantastic views across the city and beyond. It’s easily reached from the center via a hike through forest paths if you fancy stretching your legs, or simply hop on the Fløibanen funicular to zip right up to the top in just six minutes. Once you’re there, reward yourself with coffee and a heavenly baked treat from the mountain café, while the kids can run riot in the adventure playground. For further exploring, there are plenty of walking trails from the summit, which you can do on a Princess guided hike.

8. Go chasing waterfalls

Akureyri’s 35-foot waterfall tumbling into the Skjálfandafljót River below.
Akureyri’s 35-foot waterfall tumbling into the Skjálfandafljót River below.

Norway is a total heavyweight when it comes to waterfalls that wow. At 275m, the mighty Vettisfossen is the country’s highest protected waterfall and it makes for a striking sight, particularly if you hike through the Utladalen valley to see it from above. Langfoss, at over 600m, is another gem and it is often cited as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Take in the mesmerizing cascade as part of a Princess tour through scenic Åkrafjorden.

9. Get cultural at the Munch Museum

See more than just The Scream at the Munch Museum © VisitOSLO/Munchmuseet
See more than just The Scream at the Munch Museum © VisitOSLO/Munchmuseet.

There is more to Norway’s most famous artist than just his iconic work, The Scream, as you’ll discover at the extensive Munch Museum in Oslo. Learn how Edvard Munch led an often-troubled life but still achieved artistic feats by experimenting with photography, sculpture, film and drawing alongside his painting. The museum also houses the collections of Norwegian painter Amaldus Nielsen and writer and art collector Rolf Stenersen. In total, it has more than 42,000 objects, including almost 28,000 artworks. Make the most of all that Munch on a Princess day trip that takes you directly to the museum.

10. Drive over the sea

View of the Atlantic Ocean Road
View of the Atlantic Ocean Road.

Not all roads are created equal, as you’ll find out on the Atlantic Ocean Road (Atlanterhavsveien in Norwegian). This winding five-mile stretch was named as Norway’s ‘Engineering Feat of the Century’ and is thought to be one of the most stunning drives around, thanks to the dramatic ocean scenery. Needless to say, the best way to experience it is to let someone else do the driving (easily done on a Princess excursion from nearby Åndalsnes) while you gaze at the views.

11. Honor Norway's maritime heritage

Fram Museum and Norwegian Maritime Museum in Oslo, Norway.
Fram Museum and Norwegian Maritime Museum in Oslo, Norway.

Celebrate Norway's rich maritime history with a visit to three of its most iconic nautical museums on the scenic Bygdøy Peninsula. Start your journey at the Norwegian Maritime Museum, home to artifacts from the 9th-century Gokstad Viking ship and a wide range of maritime cultural treasures. Next, explore the daring expeditions of Thor Heyerdahl at the Kon-Tiki Museum, where his legendary 1947 Pacific voyage comes to life. Finally, step aboard the famous Fram at the Fram Museum, a polar ship that led some of the most remarkable Arctic and Antarctic expeditions in history. To delve deeper into Norway’s seafaring legacy, join our Fram, Kon-Tiki & Maritime Museums excursion an immersive maritime experience that will put you up close and personal with history.

12. See the gargantuan Troll Wall

A young woman enjoying the views over the amazing Troll Wall in Norway, Scandinavia
A young woman enjoying the views over the amazing Troll Wall in Norway, Scandinavia.

Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale of the Troll Wall, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, towering an impressive 3,600 feet above the valley below. Located in the Romsdalen Valley, this imposing natural wonder is a magnet for rock climbers and adventurers, but its dramatic presence can be appreciated by all. With its rugged beauty and legendary ties to Norwegian folklore, the Troll Wall is a testament to the raw, untamed nature of Norway's mountainous landscape. To experience this natural wonder up close, don’t miss our Best of Romsdal & The Troll Path excursion, where you’ll take in breathtaking views and discover the myths that surround this majestic site.

Norway is a land of endless wonders, from breathtaking fjords and towering mountains to vibrant cities brimming with culture. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, exploring Viking history, or sipping world-class coffee in Oslo, there's something for everyone to discover. Experience these unforgettable locations and more while enjoying the comfort and ease of our expertly curated excursions aboard Princess Norway and Iceland cruises. We’ll handle the details, you focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.

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