Along an arm of the North Sea, Bergen's waterfront is recognizable for its colorful maze of wooden houses backed by forested mountains—you'll likely want to spend quality time here when visiting. These five hotels are directly on the harbor or steps from it, with easy access to outdoor cafés, a fish market, hiking trails (with sea views), and fjord excursions.
Norway's second-largest city has a growing hotel scene for travelers who want to explore major highlights like the UNESCO-listed wharf, hiking trails, and nearby fjords. We've hand-picked a few options in each category—standard, mid-range, and luxury—that are located in the city center with some unique perks, like a tranquility pool and a restaurant in a 400-year-old cave, to name a few. Read on to learn more.
Norway's capital gets more sophisticated by the year, and many of its best hotels have atmospheric lounges that draw locals and travelers alike for signature cocktails. These hotels—some are historic properties from the 19th century—are well located in the city center and pair easily with restaurants as well as cultural attractions like the National Theater and Oslo Opera House.
Many of Oslo's top hotels have added new polished restaurants in recent years that aim to draw locals and travelers alike, with unique draws like rooftop settings or large windows facing the Christmas market. These nine hotels—some are restored historic properties from the 19th century—are well located in the city center and pair easily with top attractions like Palace Park and the Munch Museum.
Norway's second-largest city has many unique hotels, big and small, for travelers who want to explore major highlights like the UNESCO-listed wharf and nearby fjords. A step above standard, these seven mid-range options are well located in central Bergen and offer modern rooms, free breakfasts, and comfy lounge areas or restaurants. Read on to learn more.
If you're looking for a splurge hotel in Norway's second-largest city—walking distance from the historic harbor—these four hotels have upscale interiors and possible amenities ranging from spas and tranquility pools to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are our top picks for the best luxury hotels in Bergen.
There are affordable hotel options in Bergen, despite being an expensive city. The accommodations on this list have welcoming lounge spaces, complimentary breakfasts, and surprising perks like a romantic restaurant in a 400-year-old cellar. Plus, you'll be within walking distance of all the city offers, including Bryggen's medieval wharf, hiking trails, and fjord excursions.
All family-owned, these three luxury hotel options offer beautiful views, elegant decor, and standout food and wine programs. Read on to find out more about our hand-picked luxury properties in Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord.
When choosing a hotel in the artsy and outdoorsy town of Balestrand, you'll likely prioritize views of the Sognefjord—Norway's longest and deepest fjord. These three hotels not only take advantage of their proximity to the surrounding mountains and sea but have easy access to galleries, challenging hiking trails, and fjord adventures.
These eight properties—many family-owned and operated for generations—provide plenty of local charm and hospitality after a day's adventures in the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord.
Choosing a mid-range hotel while exploring Norway's longest and deepest fjord is ideal for travelers who want a step above the standard category but don't want to spend on luxury. These eight properties offer comfortable interiors and perks, like renovated rooms with local bath products, a fireplace lounge, or an outdoor pool facing the fjord.
If traveling to Norway's fjord region, the small village of Aurland provides a charming base for exploring the incredibly scenic Aurlandsford (a branch of the Sognefjord). These three hotels—two of which are family-owned—offer easy access to hiking trails, fjord excursions, a beachfront for swimmers, and Stegastein Viewpoint.
When choosing a place to stay in Flåm—a village in Norway's fjord region—views are likely a priority. These four charming hotels are surrounded by steep mountains in the Aurlandsfjord (a branch of the famous Sognefjord) and offer direct access to hiking trails and fjord excursions, plus a vintage-style railway with one of the steepest train routes in the world.
Given the rugged, remote, and sizable setting in Norway's fjord region, choosing the right hotel (and location) can get tricky, but we're here to help. We've hand-picked a dozen options in the Sognefjord—the country's longest and deepest fjord—and have broken them down into three categories depending on your budget: standard, mid-range, and luxury. Read on for the best hotels in the Sognefjord.
Hotels near Oslo's up-and-coming waterfront offer easy access to a deluge of new museums, restaurants, shops, and architectural gems. We've compiled a list of properties that are a short stroll to either Aker Brygge or Bjørvika along the Oslofjord, making it easier to explore Norway's capital.
Norway's fjord region, like all of Scandinavia, is notoriously expensive, but the Sognefjord—Norway's longest and deepest fjord—has its share of affordable stays surrounded by spectacular scenery. We've hand-picked five simple but charming hotels that don't break the bank, leaving you extra spending money for the area's wide range of outdoor adventures and cultural activities.
When choosing a hotel in Oslo, consider that the most opulent options have a storied past from the 19th century for travelers who appreciate old-world charm. All the properties on this list have been restored in recent years with a spate of new features—like a full-service spa or underground jazz club—adding modernity to the historic surroundings. Read on to learn more.
These three hotels near Grünerløkka will get you close to the trendy arts district along the Akerselva river and keep you within walking distance of Oslo's city center when you're ready to explore more mainstream attractions. You'll find graffiti-lined streets, independent restaurants, and live music venues—lending to a Brooklyn, New York vibe.
The fast-growing city of Oslo offers plenty of glossy new architecture, but there are still charming hotels that have stood the test of time. Below is a compiled list of three mid-range options in Norway's capital dating back to the 19th century with renovated interiors that blend nicely with the buildings' original details. Read on to learn more.
With more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, this enormous park is one of Oslo's top attractions, but it's a healthy trek from the city center, where most tourists stay. Luckily, we've compiled a list of hotels with easier access to this veritable open-air museum (free of charge; open 24/7). Here are our top picks for the best hotels in Oslo, close to the Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Norway's capital is swiftly gaining new modern architecture, but there are still a surprising number of hotels that make use of their buildings' historical roots. That's not to say they are dated: all the properties on this list have been restored in recent years with fresh room decor and features like upscale lounges and restaurants that blend nicely with original 19th and 20th-century details. Read on for the best historic hotels in Oslo.
If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Oslo near the best attractions, these options—many with historic roots—have up-to-date, posh rooms, sophisticated restaurants, and possible amenities ranging from spas and indoor pools to piano bars and underground jazz clubs. Here are our top picks for the best luxury hotels in Central Oslo.
Deciding where to stay in Norway's capital can be a difficult decision, but the newly-developed Aker Brygge waterfront precinct is a great place to consider. Though the area really comes alive during the summer months, thanks to outdoor dining and fjord excursions, there are events and attractions for every season, including the new National Museum with the most extensive art collection in the country. Check out these five hotels within a 10-minute walk from the action.
These mid-range options are great for travelers who want contemporary furnishings and access to major highlights from Palace Park to the Oslo Opera House, not to mention outstanding breakfasts and cozy lounge areas. Here are the top picks for the best mid-range hotels in Oslo.
Oslo is an expensive city, but Norway's capital has its share of affordable hotels that have renovated rooms, contemporary lounge spaces, and healthy complimentary breakfasts, adding to the appeal. Plus, you'll be within walking distance of all the city offers, including fjord excursions and top attractions like Palace Park and the Nobel Peace Center.
This 13-day Nordic adventure delivers the highlights of western and central Norway in all their autumn glory. Begin in Bergen, a historic port city where you'll stroll cobbled streets and ride cable cars up to mountain lookout points. The next leg takes you to Norway's stunning fjords and on scenic hikes and train rides before wrapping up with food tours in Oslo, dinners at mountaintop restaurants, and day trips to rugged islands.
With a backdrop of colorful foliage and fewer crowds, autumn is the perfect time to see southern Norway. This 11-day itinerary follows a circular route through Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger, as you journey deep into the fjords by bus, train, and boat. By day you'll hike, kayak, or cruise to sweeping views and unspoiled wilderness, while evenings are spent discovering the Norwegian art of "koselig" in toasty saunas and cozy restaurants.
The best boutique hotels in Oslo are all within walking distance of Oslo's top attractions, like Palace Park, yet removed from the tourist crowds. Whether it's Nordic-meets-Balinese decor, elegant rooms with stand-alone tubs, or a tree-lined location near bookstores, you'll find it on this list.
Cross the Arctic Circle in comfort on this unforgettable 15-day journey up the Norwegian coast. Starting in Bergen, you'll cruise north through a breathtaking coastal landscape of alpine fjords, towering mountains, and colorful fishing villages. Explore the ancient city of Trondheim, discover the magic of the Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands, and visit the "Arctic capital" of Tromsø. Your trip of a lifetime ends in the far north as you disembark at Kirkenes—the most isolated town in Europe.
Hike through some of Norway's most spectacular landscapes on this 8-day trekking adventure. Based in the northwestern regions of Romsdalen and Sunnmøre, you'll scale the famous Troll Wall, kayak across tranquil fjords, find hidden waterfalls at Geirangerfjord, and summit the triangular peak of Slogen. With nights spent in historic hotels, local inns, and remote mountain huts, you'll have plenty of time for rest and relaxation between each day's exhilarating excursions.
Set in Southern Norway, Stavanger offers the best of all worlds: stunning natural scenery, picturesque coastlines, charming historic streets, connections to cities like Oslo and Bergen, and easy access to the fjord region. The city is an excellent hub for some of the most popular activities in Norway, including hikes to Kjerag and Pulpit Rock, cruises in Lysefjord, and day trips to charming towns like Flørli.
The Lofoten Islands is one of the most popular destinations in Norway. The moment you arrive, you'll understand why, as this stunning archipelago features jagged mountain peaks, colorful hamlets that cling to rocks, and a coastline dotted with islands. If you're looking for outdoor adventures, this is the place for you! Enjoy scenic drives, kayaking, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, sailing, and more.
Many visitors plan an entire trip to Norway for its famed fjord region, which offers various experiences, such as fjord cruises, kayaking excursions, hikes, biking trails, scenic lookouts, historic train routes, wildlife viewing, waterfalls, glaciers, and national parks. You can explore charming wharf villages, peruse museums like the Glacier Museum, or find old wooden stave churches.
Norway is an outdoor paradise, and one of the most popular activities is hiking through the lush forests, jagged mountain peaks, and rocky fjords. From Troll's Tongue to Pulpit Rock, Norway is home to famous hikes that offer outstanding views of the country's iconic landscapes. You don't have to be an experienced trekker to enjoy the scenery, either. You'll find various trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, for all interests.
Tromsø is Norway's "Gateway to the Arctic," as the city sits above the Arctic Circle and offers easy access to the renowned Lofoten Islands and the country's northernmost reaches. But despite being so remote, the city is a vibrant, lively metropolis, lovingly referred to as the "Paris of the North." Enjoy the annual Bukta open-air music festival or visit one of the famed breweries. Discover the area's wildlife with whale safaris or watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky on a dinner cruise.
As an idyllic and colorful harbor city, Bergen is one of the most popular hubs in Norway. It sits on the North Sea coast with access to the county's famous fjord region. But Bergen is much more than just a hub, as it's filled with famous sites, including the historic Bryggen area, Gamle Bergen, several museums, art galleries, churches, and abundant Viking heritage.
Oslo is Norway's buzzy, multicultural capital, known for its eco-friendly initiatives and innovation. It houses some of the country's best museums and parks, making it well worth a stop. You'll find the renowned Viking Ship Museum, the Nobel Peace Center, art galleries featuring Edvard Munch, and the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. A vibrant city, Oslo draws crowds of all interests and ages.
Norway has a unique culture, influenced by its centuries-old history and distinct geographic location. You'll find bustling cities with fascinating origins, a quaint culture in fjord villages and coastal fishing towns, and unique customs like dogsledding and reindeer rearing, and mountainside farming. Not to mention, a thrilling Viking history that ties it all together.
It's no secret that Norway is an outdoor oasis offering every type of recreation you can think of! From climbing some of the most famous trails in the world (like Troll's Tongue) to kayaking through the iconic fjords, there's an outdoor adventure in every corner. And since the entire landscape changes with the seasons, you have a new set of active experiences for each visit.
Dogsledding is one of those quintessential Norwegian activities that you can enjoy throughout the country's northern reaches in wintertime. From the charming eastern village of Røros to the city of Tromsø or the northern hub of Alta, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy this cultural experience. Even in the summer months, you can still hike with the Huskies and learn about their lives outside of winter.
Chasing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and something that draws many travelers to Norway's upper reaches. The country is the perfect setting to spot the colorful aurora borealis. This bucket-list experience can be easily combined with snowshoeing, dogsledding, reindeer feedings, cultural activities, or simply relaxing under the polar night sky.
Norway is one of the most scenic countries in the world, with over 60,000 miles of coastline, towering mountain peaks, incredible fjord landscapes, endless islets, and a mix of marine wildlife. So if you're looking for a trip that will take your breath away, Norway is it. Discover the unique beauty of the Arctic Circle, explore the dense forests and tall cliffs of the fjords, and embrace some of the country's famous scenic viewpoints.
Take in some of Norway's most impressive natural landscapes on this two-week adventure through the country's western fjords and northern islands. You'll start with a city tour of Oslo before you venture out into nature, riding the steep and scenic Flåm Railway. Dip back into city life in Bergen, then head to the wild Vesterålen and Lofoten islands to kayak, hike, whale-watch, and more.
Experience Scandinavian culture and dramatic landscapes at a slower pace on this two-week adventure. You'll start in Norway's charming capital, known for its architecture, museums, trendy restaurants, and cafés. Next, head into the fjords to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the country from above in the mountains and and below on the sea, with hikes, boat tours, and more. You'll end on the colorful and historic wharves of Bergen.
Stop dreaming of the fjords and experience them for yourself with this 10-day Norway road trip. Survey them from above on the famous Pulpit Rock hike, then explore from the seafaring city of Bergen. Tackle mountaintop hikes near the town of Voss before you cruise or kayak through the narrow Nærøyfjord, cycle alongside the scenic Flåm Railway, and visit one of the world's oldest stave churches. End your trip in Oslo, where world-class museums and hip cafés and boutiques await.
Take yourself on a 10-day journey through the Arctic landscapes of northern Norway with this glorious self-drive itinerary. You'll explore the craggy coasts, isolated islands, and extensive networks of hiking trails via boat safaris, kayak tours, and your own two legs. Learn about Norwegian history, try to spot eagles, and pet some dogsled huskies along the way.
Explore northern Norway at your own speed with this self-drive itinerary. Seven days allows you sufficient time to explore the city of Tromsø and its historic streets, hike around isolated islands like Senja and Sommarøy, and sea safari alongside the fjord wildlife on your journey.
Travel through history, nature, and culinary adventures to arrive at an understanding of both ancient and modern Norwegian life with this trip on the Viking trail. In ancient times, Viking was a type of adventurer, with people leaving their traditional settings for remote areas to learn from new cultures and trade. Later, the Vikings developed an image more associated with plunder and pillaging. But is this the whole story? Find out for yourself as you explore the old streets of Bergen, as well as ancient political gathering spots, isolated islands, and even a recreation of a Viking village.
It's hard to imagine a more quintessential winter wonderland experience than exploring snow-covered Norway by car, train, or boat with the Northern Lights dancing overhead. Norway's northern latitude, with a significant portion of the country above the Arctic Circle, makes for cold and short days, so careful planning is required to make sure the logistics of your Norway winter trip run like clockwork. Read on for great winter itinerary suggestions, and tips to help you make the most of your winter visit to the land of fjords.
Discover Norway's remote Lofoten Islands on this scenic 8-day itinerary. Set off from the northern mainland town of Bodø and make your way south across the magical archipelago to end your journey on the breathtaking shores of Værøy. Along the way, you'll explore the secluded beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages of this extraordinary region. With evenings spent in cozy, traditional accommodations and days devoted to a selection of memorable hikes and excursions, this relaxed itinerary is perfect for travelers looking for an intimate, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
![A Viking Village in Gudvangen with the village Chief standing beside his house. [Photo by redcharlie on Unsplash.]](https://cdn.kimkim.com/files/a/images/fea5accb7080bf51445bea913d99580e716483eb/medium-b19452e169f8bab9b4be945a2c25b812.jpg)
