Plan your dream trip to Norway with help from people who live here.
Hello and welcome! My name is David Nikel, the author of the Moon Norway guidebook. From the world-famous fjords to the northern lights dancing overhead, Norway is full of incredible travel experiences.
I’ll show you how to see the best of this magnificent country, from the most interesting museums and galleries to the best hotels and campgrounds. The aim of this travel guide is both to inspire your trip planning and give you all the information you need to plan the trip of your dreams. Ready? Let's go!
Top Experiences: Norwegian Fjords – Northern Lights – Norway by Rail – Cruises – Hiking – Arctic Norway – Road Trips
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Something for everyone
Recent research done by the tourism authorities revealed the top reasons people travel to Norway. Top of the list was the Norwegian fjords. A surprise to absolutely no-one! Also listed by travellers as top reasons to come to Norway were the northern lights, exploring historic sites, and simply spending time out in nature. What's your idea of a perfect Norwegian vacation?
When & where to visit
The best time of year to visit depends on what you want to do, from enjoying a coastal village in the short summer to chasing the northern lights in the long winter, here's our advice on the weather and when to visit Norway.
Or are you looking for some inspiration on where to go? From the northern lights to the historic cities, it can be hard to decide on your priorities. Here are some articles to give you some inspiration:
- The 18 National Tourist Routes
- Norway's World Heritage Sites
- Norway's Ten Best Photo Opportunities
- The Norwegian Riviera in Pictures
- A Fjord Norway Road Trip
Where to stay
Given the relatively high cost of visiting Norway, securing your accommodation should be high on your list of travel planning priorities. Although there are plenty of chain hotels in the country, Norway offers a diverse range of accommodation to suit all budgets.
If you're planning on taking a road trip through the Norwegian fjords or the Arctic region, consider staying on one of the many campsites. You don't even need to stay in a tent or motorhome, unless you want to!
Many campsites have wooden cabins for rent, and fisherman's cottages known as rorbuer are a common sight throughout Lofoten. These can vary from simple wooden shelters to swish mountain lodges with all the conveniences of modern life.
Norway travel tips
Not every trip is going to be the same, as not every reason for visiting Scandinavia is the same. Even though we are all different, with unique needs and expectations, these travel tips should help to make the planning process easier.
Business Travellers: If you've never visited a Scandinavian country before, you may be shocked to find a very relaxed approach to work and office lifestyle. In most industries dress isn't very formal, and working hours are not long. While you're here, be sure to make some time to explore!
Healthcare: Tourists are entitled to urgent healthcare in Norway, but it’s vital to understand the rules and who pays. In an emergency situation, call for an ambulance by dialling 113 from any telephone. Is travel insurance necessary? Find out here.
Car Hire: Booking a rental car in advance is the best way to guarantee the best availability and the best rates. Avoid stress at the airport desks and reserve your car of choice today.
Sales Tax Refund: If you are planning on picking up some souvenirs on your trip, familiarise yourself with the tax refund rules. Most people will be entitled to a welcome rebate on any big ticket items you've bought in Norway when you leave the country.
Mobile Data: If you need access to data on your smartphone for more than a couple of days, it may be worth investing in a pre-paid Norwegian SIM. Here are your options.
Further reading
- The Ideal Time to Visit Norway
- Why I Can't Stop Visiting Norway
- Chris Does Norway on a Budget
- Best Travel Gadgets
Pre-travel checklist
Before you visit Norway, here's a quick checklist of important things to consider:
- Guidebook: The Moon Norway guidebook is the most up-to-date on the market
- Accommodation: Book your hotel in advance and save money
- Car Rental: Book in advance to get the best rates on your choice of rental car
- Travel Insurance: Don't run the risk of travelling to Norway without adequate cover
- VPN: Secure your laptop and smartphone's internet connection while you travel
- Tours & activities: Save money by pre-booking tours & activities
