Welcome to Norway
In northern Europe, Norway, or the Kingdom of Norway, shares the Scandinavian Peninsula with Sweden and Finland. It is a Nordic country known as one of the most mountainous countries in Europe, while the coastline is known for its stunning fjords, sea inlets between cliffs, and stunning landscapes with natural beauty.Â
Despite being a relatively small country, Norway’s diverse landscapes and climates make it a truly unique destination. From the icy glaciers of Svalbard to the lush forests of the south, Norway offers something for every type of traveller.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to travel to majestic Norway depends on your travel preferences and the activities you desire during your trip. Norway’s climate is affected by its geography, with the coastal regions experiencing milder temperatures, while the inland areas have colder and drier weather, but Norway experiences four distinct seasons:
Summer
Summer in Norway lasts from June to August. This is the peak tourist season in Norway, with mild temperatures, long days, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The average temperature during summer is around 15-20°C, and it’s the best time to visit the country’s coastal regions and fjords.
Winter
Winter in Norway lasts from December to February. The weather can be harsh during this period, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. However, winter is an excellent time to enjoy winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, and obviously, the best time to see the Northern Lights. Remember, the weather can be pretty harsh during winter, and you must pack appropriately for the cold temperatures.
Spring
Spring in Norway lasts from March to May. During this period, the weather gradually becomes milder, with longer days and occasional rain showers. Trees and flowers bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit Norway’s countryside. Enjoy many outdoor activities, like hiking and cycling, and you may find lower prices and fewer crowds.
Autumn
Autumn in Norway lasts from September to November when it becomes cooler, and the leaves change colour, making it an excellent time to enjoy Norway’s scenic beauty. Autumn is also the best time to witness the Northern Lights in Norway.
How To Get There
By Air: Norway has several international airports, including Oslo Airport Gardermoen, Bergen Airport Flesland, and Stavanger Airport Sola. These airports are served by major airlines worldwide, making it easy to reach Norway by air.
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By Train: Norway is well-connected by train to other parts of Europe. The Oslo to Stockholm and Oslo to Copenhagen routes are popular train journeys. One could also opt to enjoy the beautiful scenery on the famous Bergen Line between Oslo and Bergen.
By Ferry: Norway is a country of fjords and islands, so taking a ferry can be hat a great way to reach some of the more remote parts of the country. There are regular ferry services to Norway from Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
By Road: If you’re travelling from Europe, you can reach Norway by car or bus. The E6 is the main road that runs through Norway from south to north, and several other major highways connect Norway to other parts of Europe.
Visa Requirements
Norway is a member of the Schengen Area, meaning that citizens of certain countries can enter Norway for tourism or business without a visa for up to 90 days within 180 days. If you are a citizen of a country that does not have a visa exemption agreement with Norway, you will typically need to apply for a Schengen visa before your trip.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, so it’s recommended to check with the nearest Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country or visit the official website of the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Getting Around Norway
We visited Norway in the month of April where the weather is out of the extreme cold but still cold enough to snow.
After landing at Tromso and going through all the visa and immigration formalities, we were surprised to see a very clean, modern airport with friendly and courteous people.
We had arranged a rental car from Hertz, so we had to make our way through the snow by walking to another location where then rental cars were located.Â
We would highly recommend hiring a car and booking ferry’s or small cruise tours to get the best out of the majestic Fjords of Norway.
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Where To Stay
We used a combination of Marriott Hotels and Booking.Com for all our hotel booking requirements.
Explore Norway's Seafood
As a seafood lover, Norway was a dream come true for me. From fresh shrimp to succulent salmon, the seafood in Norway is some of the best in the world. And let’s not forget about the famous Norwegian brown cheese, a unique and delicious treat I still crave.
Recommended Tours
Final Thoughts
Norway is a country that holds a special place in my heart. Having travelled to various destinations within Norway, I have experienced the stunning beauty of its natural landscapes, tasted its delicious seafood, and been immersed in its fascinating history and culture. I highly recommend Norway to anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Its friendly people, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to sustainability make it a destination that truly stands out. Norway will always be one of my favourite destinations.
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