Norway 

Visiting Norway feels like stepping into a postcard that somehow manages to be even more beautiful in real life. From deep fjords to snow-dusted mountains, this country offers a unique blend of raw nature and simple living that pulls you in the moment you arrive. If you’re looking for a travel guide that mixes adventure with stillness, then Norway is going to feel just right for you. When I first visited, I wasn’t expecting to be so moved by the quiet. But there’s something about the way light hits the water in a place like Geirangerfjord or how a village seems to blend into the cliffs that makes you stop and soak it in.

One of the best things to do in Norway is to explore its natural landscapes, and you’ll want to do that at your own pace. Whether you’re hiking up to Trolltunga or riding a train through the mountains on the Flåm Railway, each experience feels like a personal moment between you and the world. There’s no rush here. You don’t feel pressure to tick off sights just to say you’ve seen them. You feel invited to take your time. That’s something I loved right away and something any good travel guide to Norway will emphasize.

If you’re into the idea of chasing the northern lights, winter is your season. I remember standing outside in total silence, wrapped in layers, watching green ribbons dance across the sky in Tromsø. There’s no photo that really captures what it feels like to see that kind of light in person. For me, it was one of the most memorable things to do in Norway. You might find yourself just staring at the sky, completely still, and that’s okay. That’s part of it.

Of course, summer in Norway is a different kind of magic. The midnight sun means longer days and more time to explore without watching the clock. You can kayak through fjords, climb coastal cliffs, or just relax in a quiet fishing village. One of the best things about using a travel guide here is how varied your trip can be. You don’t have to be an athlete or a serious hiker to enjoy it. Just being present is enough. Whether you’re riding a bike in Lofoten or walking through Bergen’s historic harbor, you’ll find beauty in small, simple moments.

And don’t skip the food. I wasn’t sure what to expect on my first trip, but fresh seafood, warm pastries, and hearty stews quickly won me over. Eating in Norway is often about comfort and freshness, which feels perfect after a day outdoors. Some of my favorite meals came from little cafes where no one was in a hurry, and you could hear the wind outside while sipping coffee.

What makes Norway stand out is the way it makes you feel connected, not just to nature, but to yourself. It’s a place that encourages you to slow down, look around, and just be. When building your own travel guide, focus on what moves you, whether it’s waterfalls, quiet forests, or stories shared with locals. There are so many incredible things to do in Norway, and they all seem to open up when you stop rushing and start feeling.

If you’re ready to breathe fresh air, see landscapes that make your heart skip a beat, and experience a kind of peace that’s hard to describe, then let this be your sign. Use this travel guide to plan your own journey and find the things to do in Norway that make it unforgettable for you.

Norway Travel Guide

  • If you're from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, or most of Europe, you don’t need a visa for visits under 90 days. It’s part of the Schengen zone. If you're not, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa online and through a consulate.

  • 90 days in any 180-day period, like the rest of the Schengen area.

  • Norwegian krone (NOK). Don’t expect to use euros here.

  • I never bother exchanging in advance. ATMs and cards are widely accepted. Even tiny shops take cards, and Norway is basically cashless.

  • No extra vaccines are needed. Just keep your regular ones up to date.

  • Yes, and honestly, it’s some of the best water I’ve ever tasted. I drink straight from the tap every time I visit.

  • Very safe. Norway ranks high for safety, and I’ve never felt uneasy even in remote areas. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so keep an eye on forecasts.

  • Winters are cold, especially up north. Summer (June to August) is mild and lovely, usually 15 to 25°C. Spring and fall are chillier but still beautiful. If you want the midnight sun or northern lights, time your trip right.

  • Trains, buses, ferries, and domestic flights all work well. Renting a car gives you more freedom, especially for fjords and national parks. I’ve done both and loved the road trips.

  • Tipping isn’t expected but appreciated. I usually round up or leave 5 to 10 percent in restaurants if the service was good.

  • Lots of seafood and meat, but veggie and vegan options are growing, especially in Oslo and Bergen. Grocery stores have good options too. You might just need to look a little harder in smaller towns.