7 stunning and iconic things to do in Norway

Norway is the kind of destination that doesn’t just fill a photo album; it shifts your perspective. It is a rare, otherworldly intersection of Viking heritage, avant-garde architecture, and a culinary scene that manages to be both ancient and experimental.

Even after exploring over 38 countries solo, Norway remains anchored at the top of my list. My journey through the Land of the Midnight Sun involved a mix of high-alpine railways, fjord cruises, and more smoked salmon than any one person should reasonably consume. If you’re planning your own pilgrimage, here are the absolute best things to do in Norway to build your itinerary around.

Wander in the Old City of Bergen

I’ve made my love for Bergen quite clear—few places in Europe (or the world, for that matter) have left such a lasting impression on me. Tucked between seven hills and seven fjords, Bergen is Norway’s atmospheric heart. It is a city that feels both ancient and alive, wrapped in a moody coastal drizzle that only adds to its cinematic charm.

• Bryggen Wharf: Walk through the leaning, colorful wooden tenements of the old Hanseatic wharf. These 14th-century colourful wooden buildings—crooked, weathered, and utterly photogenic—tell stories of Bergen’s seafaring past, and now house small museums, artisan boutiques, and cozy cafés.
• The Fløibanen Funicular: For the best orientation, take the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen. The panoramic view of the fjords and the city’s red roofs is the ultimate reward.
• Local secret: Wander the cobbled lanes of Knøsesmauet. It’s one of the most photogenic residential corners of the city, lined with white-washed houses and overflowing flower boxes. You’ll also find small coffeeshops offering strong brews and even stronger shelter from the famously temperamental weather.

Cruise in the Norway fjords

Skipping he fjords on a trip to Norway is like visiting Paris and ignoring the Eiffel Tower—just not something that can be done. They are the country’s vein system. A cruise through the Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO World Heritage site) or the Sognefjord is the most immersive way to experience the sheer scale of the cliffs.

Unlike crowded European landmarks, the fjords offer a profound sense of solitude. You’ll find yourself sailing past vertical rock faces and waterfalls that feel like they belong in a myth. It’s the kind of place where you can really pause, breathe, and soak in how incredible nature can be.

And the best part? No crowds, no noise—just quiet moments of awe and wonder.

Ride the iconic Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana)

The journey from Flåm to Myrdal is often cited as one of the most iconic train ride in the world—and I have to agree. Though the track is only 20 kilometers long, the elevation gain is staggering.

As the train chugs upward, the landscape undergoes a dramatic metamorphosis: you’ll leave behind the lush, emerald valleys of the lowlands and arrive in a rugged, windswept terrain that feels lunar. Keep your eyes glued to the window for the Kjosfossen waterfall—the train makes a brief stop specifically so you can feel the mist on your face.

It’s a small slice of Norway’s wild beauty condensed into a magical hour—and one I still find myself daydreaming about. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking.

Discover the capital, Oslo

Norway’s capital is a masterclass in urban walkable design. Oslo seamlessly blends its Viking past with a futuristic waterfront that houses the Opera House and the Munch Museum; and indeed, the city is packed with museums, which are great for diving deeper into Norwegian culture and art if you have the time.

• Grünerløkka: This is the city’s creative engine. Expect a laid-back “hipster” vibe, vintage boutiques, and an incredible natural wine and coffee scene.
• Harbour photowalk: The light along the Oslofjord at sunset is a dream for photographers. The mix of sleek glass architecture and traditional wooden boats creates a striking contrast.
• Akershus Fortress: Stroll the castle grounds for a dose of medieval history and a commanding view of the harbor.

Put on your walking shoes and see where Oslo takes you!

Chase the Arctic magic in Tromsø

If you want to feel the true pulse of the North, you head to Tromsø. Perched 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, it’s a place where civilization feels like a cozy outpost against a vast, wild frontier. Tromsø offers a surreal blend of urban comfort and extreme nature. Depending on when you visit, you’ll either experience the 24-hour glow of the Midnight Sun or the mystical, violet-hued Polar Night; I visited during the latter.

• The northern lights: Tromsø sits directly under the Aurora Oval, making it one of the most reliable places on Earth to witness the Aurora Borealis.
• Arctic culture: From the striking Arctic Cathedral to local galleries, the city’s art scene is surprisingly sophisticated for its remote location.

If you have 72 hours, use Tromsø as your base for dog sledding, whale watching, or simply soaking in the “Blue Hour”—that brief, magical moment of light that defines the Arctic winter. Either way, Tromsø is where your most vivid Norway memories are made.