Norway
Fjords, northern lights and wide-open mountains
October 27, 2026
I loved Norway's Fjords, northern lights and wide-open mountains.
You should go if:
You want dramatic fjords, waterfalls and mountain hikes
You hope to see the aurora or the midnight sun
You like scenic trains and ferries
Must-visit places:
Bergen and the western fjords: Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord, both UNESCO-listed
Oslo: The Opera House, Viking Ship Museum and Vigeland Park
Lofoten Islands: Fishing villages beneath sharp peaks
Tromsø: The best-known base for northern lights
Preikestolen and Trolltunga: Famous cliff hikes
Must-try foods:
Salmon and fresh seafood
Brunost: Sweet brown cheese on waffles
Kjøttkaker: Norwegian meatballs
Skillingsboller: Cinnamon buns
Fun facts:
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo.
The sun does not set for weeks in the far north in summer.
Norway has some of the world's highest electric-car use.
Logistics:
Best time: June to August for hiking; October to March for aurora
Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK); cashless in practice
Getting around: Trains, ferries and the Hurtigruten coastal route; a car for remote areas
Tipping: Not required
Prices: Among the highest in Europe; self-catering helps
Must-learn phrases:
Hello: Hei
Thank you: Takk
Please: Vær så snill
Yes / No: Ja / Nei
Excuse me: Unnskyld
Cheers!: Skål!