Exploring the best places to visit in Norway is a dream for travelers who love dramatic landscapes, serene fjords, and vibrant Nordic culture. From the iconic Northern Lights to the midnight sun, this Scandinavian gem offers captivating attractions year-round.
Whether you’re planning a peaceful nature retreat or an adventure-filled trip, discovering the best places to visit in Norway will leave you in awe. The country’s majestic fjords, charming fishing villages, and historic cities all show why these are the best places to visit in Norway for any type of traveler.
As you prepare your itinerary, you’ll quickly realize that the best places to visit in Norway combine natural beauty with unforgettable experiences. From the modern attractions of Oslo to the Arctic wonders of Tromsø, each destination stands out among the best places to visit in Norway. Embark on a journey where every moment feels magical in one of Norway's best travel destinations.
1. Oslo
Average Temperature (December): High: 1° Celsius/34° Fahrenheit Low: -4° Celsius/25° Fahrenheit
Sunrise and Sunset on December 21: 9:18 AM and 3:12 PM
Pros of Visiting Oslo in Winter: Usually snows, lots to do in the capital city, cross-country skiing options
Cons of Visiting Oslo in Winter: No Northern Lights or 'Arctic' feel, no dramatic fjords like Norway
I've lived in Oslo for over three years, and I know the city like the back of my hand (I still go back a lot, so I learn new things to do in Oslo).
While it may not be everyone's 'cup of tea' when it comes to visiting a magical winter wonderland, hear me out...
You can ski and snowboard in Oslo. Honestly... you take the T-Bahn (metro) right up the hill to Frognersätteren and you can ski, snowboard, cross-country ski and sled.
There are Christmas markets in Oslo that also give it a cozy feel during winter.
While visiting Oslo during winter may not be for travelers hunting down the northern lights, it definitely has its appeal.
In addition, Oslo has the best museums in Norway and you can find everything from the Nobel Peace Prize Center to Viking Museums.
2. Bergen
Average temperature (December): High: 5° Celsius/41° Fahrenheit Low: 1° Celsius/34° Fahrenheit
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 9:44 AM and 3:29 PM
Pros of visiting Bergen in winter: The fjords don't freeze over and you can cruise on them, mild temperatures, paperbacks
Cons of visiting Bergen in winter: Not much snow (if that's what you're here for), lots of rain, fewer travel options
Bergen holds a special place in my heart because it was where I first lived in Norway and the first place I visited in the country before I decided to move there.
However, Bergen is often overlooked as a winter destination in Norway. Is that reasonable? Not entirely. Bergen doesn't always snow in winter, and when it does, it often melts. But it will rain. At least 20 days a month.
So, what makes Bergen so attractive in the winter? I think it’s a great option if you want to take a few days off to explore other parts of the fjord country.
Some of my favorite road trips in Norway have been those that depart from Bergen in the winter. I really enjoyed Vøringsfossen, Kvamskogen (a winter wonderland!), Flåm, Folgefonna, and more.
If you rent a car for this trip, you’ll need to make sure you’re able to drive through inclement weather, but generally, the roads are clear enough to drive confidently (major highways).
However, if you’re planning on staying in the Bergen area, just don’t expect sunshine… or snow.
The city still offers great food (especially the Norwegian Christmas dinner with pinekjot, klarabistappe, and potatoes), breathtaking views, and cozy cafes. So, if you have the chance to visit Bergen for a winter vacation, do it!
3. Lofoten Islands
Average Temperature (December): High: 3° Celsius/38° Fahrenheit Low: -1° Celsius/31° Fahrenheit
Sunrise and Sunset on December 21: The sun doesn't rise
Pros of visiting Lofoten in winter: Lots of adventure activities available, fewer crowds, cheaper prices, Northern Lights visible (if the weather is favorable)
Cons of visiting Lofoten in winter: Probably no snow but lots of rain and winter storms, best to explore the islands by car
Visiting the Lofoten Islands in winter can be one of the most unexpected pleasures of Norway.
It was my first time visiting the islands in winter, and I was surprised at how beautiful they were and how many winter activities there were, even though all the tourists were flocking to Tromsø up north.
When I arrived in the islands, a huge winter storm was blowing in, making the bus ride from Narvik to Lofoten take several hours to get through the Vesterålen archipelago... but once I got to the islands, the weather was pretty calm throughout my entire trip.
In winter, activities on the islands range from sea eagle safaris through Trollfjorden to snowshoeing through mountain forests. You can also go horseback riding in Gimsøy under the northern lights.
Can you see the northern lights in the Lofoten Islands? Yes... and no. If you don't book a tour, I think they'll be hard to find because the weather patterns on the islands are a bit strange.
But with an expert tour guide and a private tour, you can drive until you see them, and it's a sight to behold.
However, I'm not sure I'd book a trip to the Lofoten Islands without renting a car, and I'm not sure I'd rent a car in Lofoten without being comfortable driving in any conditions.
4. Voss
Average temperature (December): High: 1° Celsius/33° Fahrenheit Low: -4° Celsius/24° Fahrenheit
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 9:42 AM and 3:22 PM
Pros of visiting Voss in winter: Skiing opportunities, can take the train there
Cons of visiting Voss in winter: You'll miss out on a lot of the cool summer activities if you don't see the northern lights
Voss has been aptly named the 'Adrenaline Capital of Norway' and for good reason. It's a small region with a lot of interesting activities and things to do.
Vossevågen (Voss) is known for its skiing opportunities and its proximity to one of Norway’s most famous ski resorts, Mirkdalen (25 kilometers away).
In winter? It will still feel adventurous… don’t worry! There are opportunities to go snowshoeing, visit an ice igloo near Mirkdalen, go snowmobiling and much more.
But what I loved most about Voss was its location. It is ideally located and close to other great regional attractions such as Steindalsvägen, Stalheim Hotel, Gudvangen and is halfway between Bergen and Flåm.
5. Alta
Average temperature (December): High: -3°C/33°F Low: -10°C/24°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: The sun doesn't rise
Pros of visiting Alta in winter: Adventure activities, ice hotels, and the northern lights
Cons of visiting Alta in winter: You have to get there
During one of my trips (which was in the summer), I had a meeting with the Northern Norway Tourism Board, and the woman I was meeting looked at me and said, "Alta is the best winter tourist destination in the region." She was serious, and she definitely meant it.
First of all, Alta is home to one of Norway's ice hotels, the Sorisniva Igloo Hotel. It offers the full experience and is a reason in itself to visit Alta in winter.
But... there's so much to do in Alta during the winter months that you'll have even more reasons to add the country's northernmost city to your winter Norway bucket list.
Some of the most popular sights in Alta are the petroglyphs located in Hemeluft Bay (you won’t be able to see them in the winter, but you can visit the museum that has some of them!), the Northern Lights Cathedral, and the stunning Altafjord that the city is located in.
In addition to the sights, there are many activities and excursions to keep you busy on your Alta trip. You can go whale watching, dog-sledding, snowmobiling, and more. Alta may be the best winter destination in Norway and is definitely an adventurer’s paradise.
6. Karmoy
Average temperature (December): High: 6°C/43°F Low: 3°C/38°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 9:33 AM and 3:41 PM
Pros of visiting Karmoy in winter: Not crowded, looks like a Norwegian fairy tale, lots of sights
Cons of visiting Karmoy in winter: You have to drive there, not much is open, no northern lights
I would say, it is a remote place for foreigners to visit in winter. But, if you can make it possible and the weather is friendly, it is quite magical.
Karmoy is an island located in Rogaland and is known as a summer vacation spot for Norwegians.
I first visited Karmoy about fifteen years ago and it easily became one of my favorite places in Norway.
It’s a great day trip from Haugesund (even the local airport is on the island) and you’ll find a variety of things to do on Karmøy. Below are some of my favorites:
Skudeneshavn: It’s a summer vacation destination… and while it lives up to the hype in the summer, there’s something so wonderful about its silence in the winter. There’s not much open, but you can wander around and it looks like a postcard.
Visnes: Visnes is a small village that played a big role in US history. This village is where the copper for the Statue of Liberty came from. The property was owned by a French merchant and the rest is history. There’s a museum and a small replica of the Statue of Liberty.
Vikinggården: So, technically, it’s located on a small island off Karmøy called ‘Bukkøy’, but it’s only accessible from Karmøy. Head to Avaldsnes, a historic area with Viking roots. There is a huge open-air museum there and although it is only open in the summer, you can also visit in the winter.
In addition to all the sights mentioned above, you can still find trails and beautiful views all over Karmoy and if you find yourself in this part of Rogaland, I recommend visiting Karmoy in the winter (or summer).
7. Nordkapp
Average temperature (December): High: -2°C/29°F Low: -5°C/24°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: The sun doesn't rise
Pros of visiting Nordkapp in winter: Fewer tourists, Northern Lights
Cons of visiting Nordkapp in winter: Driving to Mageroia can be tricky (or require a convoy), so a tour may be needed, weather may be a factor
I must admit, I've visited Nordkapp in the summer and spring, not in the winter. However, I know several people who have visited in the winter and they said it was an incredible experience, even if it was dark and ominous.
One thing you should know about visiting Nordkapp in winter is that you may need a tour to get there. Or be prepared for a vehicle convoy.
Since you'll be dealing with a convoy there, you definitely need to plan your trip well in advance (and be flexible). It's dark and the weather in Magerøya is absolutely unbearable, but if you can visit Nordkapp in winter, I think it will probably be one of the highlights of your life.
Be sure to read about Nordkapp in winter before considering it as your travel destination.
8. Røros
Average temperature (December): High: -5°C/24°F Low: -14°C/7°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 9:49 AM and 2:39 PM
Pros of visiting Røros in winter: Christmas spirit (markets and festivals), snow
Cons of visiting Røros in winter: It's very remote and difficult to reach, very cold, no northern lights
If you're looking for the most beautiful places in Norway, you'll probably stumble upon the town of Røros in central Norway. It's one of the coldest places in Norway in winter, but easily the most charming!
Røros is a historic mining town famous for its wooden buildings and a sense of the past. It was even awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1980.
The mountain village is located in Trøndelag and is a kind of living, open-air museum, full of narrow streets and Norwegian charm. It is one of the oldest towns built of wooden buildings in all of Europe.
Founded in 1644, Røros is known for its stunning church, Røros Church, as well as a flat pastry called ‘pjalt’, which is traditionally served with brown cheese (brunost).
Røros has plenty of winter activities to keep you busy, from dog-sledding to skiing and more. They are also famous for their Christmas market, which is one of the best Christmas markets in Norway.
9. Kirkenes
Average temperature (December): High: -5°C/24°F Low: -11°C/11°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: The sun doesn't rise
Pros of visiting Kirkenes in winter: Snow hotels, northern lights, other winter activities
Cons of visiting Kirkenes in winter: Somewhat remote and likely requires a flight (or Hurtigruten ferry)
If you head north into Norway and keep going... you'll reach Kirkenes, a Norwegian town along the Russian border. Kirkenes is a great winter destination (you can find your way there while you're there!).
You can visit the Russian/Norwegian border, see the Soviet Liberation Monument, and stop at the Andersgroten bomb shelter, which today symbolizes how heavily Kirkenes was bombed during World War II.
In addition to learning about the city’s Soviet connections and history, you can also take part in a number of winter activities in Kirkenes. Some of the things to do in Kirkenes in winter include king crab safaris, snowmobiling, Northern Lights tours, dog-sledding, and more.
One of the best ice hotels in Norway, the Kirkenes Snow Hotel, is also located here.
This is a truly great place to visit in Norway in winter and a viable alternative to Tromsø. Hotels in Kirkenes are cheaper in winter than in Tromsø.
10. Rjukan
Average temperature (December): High: 1° Celsius/35° Fahrenheit Low: -5° Celsius/24° Fahrenheit
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 9:26 AM and 3:21 PM
Pros of visiting Rjukan in winter: See the sun mirror, lots of adventure activities
Cons of visiting Rjukan in winter: Hard to get to, no Northern Lights
If you're visiting Rjukan in winter, fear not - there's plenty to keep you busy! It's in a great location for winter activities and you can enjoy the winter on Gaustatöpen (a beautiful mountain), go cross-country skiing, or even one of the most famous winter activities - ice climbing.
Rjukan even hosts an annual ice festival, which attracts adventure tourists from all over the world!
But, apart from its WWII history, what makes Rjukan so famous is that it is one of the darkest places in Norway in winter. Due to the mountains and the town’s location, it is truly dark.
So dark that they have made international headlines for installing sun mirrors to give the residents a little more light during these dark months.
Getting to Rjukan may not be that easy without renting a car, but it is still a must-see place in Norway in winter and one of the best weekend trips from Oslo!
11. Hammerfest
Average Temperature (December): High: 1° Celsius/34° Fahrenheit Low: -4° Celsius/25° Fahrenheit
Sunrise and Sunset: No sun on December 21
Pros of visiting Hammerfest in winter: Northern lights, adventure activities
Cons of visiting Hammerfest in winter: Difficult to reach, heavy snowfall
Hammerfest is the northernmost city in the world and was made famous by Bill Bryson's book many years ago.
In winter, the sun never rises above the horizon in Hammerfest and it is dark. However, Hammerfest has plenty of winter activities and is a great time to enjoy the city for brave souls.
Hammerfest is also located next to the Struve Geodetic Arc chain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can visit it in the town of Fuglens.
One of the best reasons to visit Hammerfest in the winter is that the town has a lovely little bar and restaurant scene, as well as some great museums. Don’t miss the Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society, a museum that chronicles the extensive history of hunting in the Arctic.
World War II certainly wreaked havoc in northern Norway, and you can learn more about the history of the impact of World War II on Hammerfest at the Reconstruction Museum (Gjenreisningsmuseet).
If you’re interested in Sami culture, Hammerfest is a great place to learn about it in Norway, and you can visit Mikkelgamen, a Sami turf hut, to learn more and have an interactive experience.
12. Bodø
Average temperature (December): High: 3°C/37°F Low: -2°C/29°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 11:36 AM and 12:26 PM
Pros of visiting Bodø in winter: Chance to see the Northern Lights, lots of local activities, cozy bars and cafes, good food
Cons of visiting Bodø in winter: The Northern Lights are not always visible.
If someone asked me which is the most underrated city in Norway, I would probably tell them Bodø. It took me years to visit Bodø and when I finally went there, I was completely shocked by how badly my Norwegian friends portrayed it.
Bodø is located in Nordland County and is the launchpad for some of the most beautiful places in Norway, such as Sjønhåten National Park and Raagø National Park.
It is also located near one of Norway's most famous glaciers, the Svartisen Glacier. But, what makes Bodø a great option for a trip to Norway in winter?
Well, the food... for one. I had one of the most incredible meals at Bodø’s List Pa and they offer seasonal ingredients with a unique twist and one of the best wine selections in Norway.
You can also go for a relaxing drink at Hundholmen Bar – a microbrewery with a bar overlooking the Atlantic. There’s no shortage of cafes and art spaces around town either.
Don’t forget to take a day trip to Kjerringøy for cultural heritage and the world’s largest maelstrom, Saltstraumen.
Yet, another advantage of visiting Bodø is that it’s accessible. It’s the last stop on Norway’s train line. And the train runs all year round.
13. Senja
Average Temperature (December): High: 0C/31F Low: -4C/24F
Sunrise and Sunset on December 21: The sun doesn't rise
Pros of visiting Senja in winter: Northern lights, adventure activities, whale watching
Cons of visiting Senja in winter: Can be challenging to get there depending on the weather
Senja has some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Norway... but I think this is the most amazing. It's one of the best places to visit in Norway in winter, and for many reasons.
If you're heading to Norway to see the Northern Lights, Senja has got you covered. It's one of the top Northern Lights destinations in Norway and a totally viable alternative to Tromsø (or you could visit both...).
There are a plethora of winter options for travelers to Senja. You can snowshoe through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, go snowmobiling, dog sledding, and more.
Another great thing to do in Senja in winter is a Northern Lights and whale watching tour. You have the opportunity to see both at the same time, and it is truly a unique experience.
14. Lillehammer
Average temperature (December): High: -3°C/26°F Low: -8°C/17°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: 9:31 AM and 3:01 PM
Pros of visiting Lillehammer in winter: Ski destination, easy to get to, family-friendly
Cons of visiting Lillehammer in winter: No northern lights, high season (more expensive)
My first memories of Lillehammer take me back to 1994 and the Winter Olympics held there. I believe these memories made me interested in the whole of Scandinavia and I never imagined, at least back then, that I would one day move to Norway.
And yet, here we are many years later and Lillehammer is still a great winter destination in Scandinavia and Norway.
There is so much going on in Lillehammer that it really is the best place to visit in Norway in winter.
You can visit the Olympic sights in Lillehammer or hit the slopes. There are many downhill skiing opportunities and cross-country trails. You will also find the Hundertwasser Winter Park, which is a great place for a family trip.
If you are interested in more extreme activities, then Lillehammer is definitely for you. You can do bobsledding, snowshoeing and more during your trip.
If seeing the Northern Lights is not your priority and you are traveling with young children, then Lillehammer is one of the best winter destinations in Norway.
15. Flam
Average Temperature (December): High: 5°C/42°F: Low: 0°C/31°F: December 21 Sunrise and Sunset: 9:42 AM and 3:17 PM
Pros of visiting Flam in winter: Fjord tours, fewer tourists, mild temperatures
Cons of visiting Flam in winter: No northern lights
Flam may not be the most popular Norwegian winter destination, but I have visited several times during the winter months and I would have to say otherwise. It is so mysterious and charming during the winter months that I prefer it to the summer months when it is crowded.
One of the best things to do in Flam in winter is to take the Flamsbana, or the train that runs between Flam and Myrdal.
It is consistently rated as one of the best train journeys in the world and is a must-do when traveling to Flam.
You will be close to some UNESCO World Heritage fjords and you can take a cruise on the Norrøyfjord and the Øresundfjord from Flam. These are narrow and charming fjords and everyone should visit them on their winter vacation in Norway.
Another reason to visit Flam is that it is a great launchpad for some day trips. One of the best is to visit Stegastein and enjoy the epic views of Norway. You can also take a snowshoe tour to reach the viewpoint.
If you are not an active traveler, Flam is home to the Ægir microbrewery and restaurant... which should definitely be on your Flam bucket list!
If you are in the area, I highly recommend visiting Flam and if you don’t mind the shorter days, winter is a great time to visit.
16. Svalbard
Average temperature (December): High: -8°C/18°F Low: -14°C/7°F
Sunrise and sunset on December 21: The sun doesn't rise
Pros of visiting Svalbard in winter: Less crowds, Northern Lights, Unique travel option, Cheap
Cons of visiting Svalbard in winter: Long flights, not much activity depending on the month, very cold
Svalbard is warming up much faster than anywhere else in the world. It's true. Is it ethical to visit Svalbard?
I think if you plan your visit to Svalbard properly, it can be... but I definitely think you should be a bit more considerate about what you do in Svalbard, and visiting in winter is now a great option.
But, this darkness creates unique travel opportunities, and seeing the Northern Lights in Svalbard is one of them! While it may not be the best place to see the lights due to its location in the north, it is still possible and you can book a tour to do it.
There are also other tour options in Svalbard in the winter, such as visiting old mines and joining a Svalbard snowmobile tour.
Many people flock to Tromsø in the winter, but I think Svalbard is a great option if you want something a little different. Keep in mind that you will need a tour to do anything in Svalbard at this time of year, so plan your trip accordingly!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time to visit Norway?
The best time to visit Norway depends on your plans. Summer (June-August) is perfect for the fjords and long daylight hours, while winter (December-March) is ideal for the Northern Lights and snowfall.
2. Which city is the best to start your Norway trip?
Oslo is the best starting point as it easily connects to major destinations such as Bergen, Tromsø and the fjords.
3. Can I see the Northern Lights in Norway?
Yes. The best places to see the Northern Lights are Tromsø, Alta and the Lofoten Islands, especially from September to March.
4. Is Norway expensive for tourists?
Yes, Norway is known to be a bit expensive, but budget travel is possible with public transport, hostels and booking in advance.
5. Are the fjords worth visiting?
Absolutely. Fjord islands like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are UNESCO sites and one of the most captivating natural wonders in Europe.
Note
- Norway offers world-class natural experiences, so plan your routes early, especially during summer.
- Book accommodations in advance as peak seasons fill up quickly.
- Weather can change fast—always carry warm layers even in summer.
- For Northern Lights, choose dark, clear nights and avoid city lights for best results.