A seamless blend of the old and new, Norway is a country where you can find cutting-edge cultural venues next to natural attractions. Oslo is the capital city and it is a vibrant one, but you can also explore stunning gorges and snowy mountains in the country that’s also referred to as the Land of the Midnight Sun. This is due to the fact that during some parts of the year, the sun remains permanently in the sky and the day never ends. In addition, Norway is also one of the places in the world where people can spot the Northern Lights, which is one of the most spectacular shows of natural light on the earth.
One of the most affluent European countries, Norway offers high-quality facilities, along with a great range of public transport options. The country is also known for being safe and also has a fascinating history. There is no shortage of activities, from various attractions ranging from glaciers to museums. You can check out the modern aspects of Norway and also learn about the unique Viking culture. Some of the incredible things that you can do and see in the country are:
- Go on a train journey
There are some great rail routes in Norway that are easy to use and comprehensive, so you can set on a train journey to enjoy the country. With over 2,000 miles of tracks, you will have scenic journeys that allow you to take in Norway’s sights from a completely different perspective. Some of the highlights of your journey will include the Dovre Railways that take you from Oslo to Trondheim and the Bergen Railway that gives you views of the Hardangervidda plateau.
- Explore the beauty of Mount Floyen
A summit of 399 meters, Mount Floyen can provide you the best views of Bergen as it overlooks the city. If you feel lazy, you have the option of taking the funicular railway that takes eight minutes to reach the top and gives you views of Bergen, along with its prominent fjords. There is a lookout area close to the summit and if you don’t want to take the railway, you can always hike to the top and enjoy some mountain biking on the neighboring trails. The Floyen Folk Restaurant is another major draw here, which has local foods and traditional music recitals.
- Check out the Oslo Cathedral
One of the main draws in the city of Oslo is the Oslo Cathedral and was built in the 11th century in its original form. The church has a baroque style and it was the first one to have been established in Norway. As expected, there have been some iconic events in the church, such as those relating to the royal family and visitors can also all the entire history by taking a trip to the church. The colorful murals covering the ceiling, the ornate pulpit, and the large organ are some of the things to see here.
- Take a ferry
Another way that you can explore and take in the country of Norway is to take the Hurtigruten ferry that will take you to some of the less explored areas. Coastal steamers are the name for the ferries and you can take one in Bergen and go to Kirkenes, which will take around 12 days. You have the option of hopping off and on at some of the scenic ports for which the country is famous.
- Take a look at the Geirangerfjord Region
A part of the huge Fjord Norway Network, Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stretching across many miles, it includes Alesund in the north, which is known because of its icy Norwegian scenery. Sunnylvsfjord is also another great spot, which offers some of the prettiest views of the countryside. If you are interested in scaling a peak, then the Dalsnibba summit is the best option, as it stands at 4,905 feet. You can book a tour for enjoying the splendor and it will take you to some of the best spots in the region.
- Experience the glory of the Arctic Cathedral
Jan Inge Hovig was a Norwegian architect who came up with the Arctic Cathedral back in 1965. Therefore, this is considered one of the newer cathedrals in the country and has a dramatic style. The structure is designed to look like large blocks of ice and the inside also has sparkling mosaics, with the iconic façade made of glass with a large crucifix marking it. The cathedral appears spectacular during wintertime because it is lit up from the outside.
- Visit Akershus Castle
In 1299, during the medieval period, the Akershus Castle was built for keeping Oslo safe from an enemy invasion. It has served various purposes over the years, including a prison in these modern times and operating as a renaissance castle before. Currently, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense is using it and it can be visited to check out some of the pretty rooms, including the chapel. You will also find antique collections here that will help you experience the history of the castle.
- Go to the Arctic Circle
A lot of people don’t realize that most of Norway are situated in the Arctic Circle, which means that it is the ideal spot to search for the Midnight Sun. Every year, this natural phenomenon occurs around the summer solstice when it is permanently daytime and the sun never sets. The presence of the renowned Northern Lights is another key feature and these are made when the particles from the sun enter the earth’s atmosphere.
You can also ski in the Lyngen Alps, travel on the Atlantic Ocean Road, check out the Kon-Tiki Museum and Ibsen Museum, enjoy the Vigeland Sculpture Park and look at the paintings at the Munch Museum. There are plenty of other museums to enjoy, villages to explore, and buildings that represent the culture and architecture of Norway that you can add to your trip.
