5 reasons to travel to Norway
Although people go to Norway more for its landscapes than for its cities, the landscapes are far from the only reason the country is worth a visit.
- 1Discovering the breath-taking landscapes
- 2Enjoying unique experiences
- 3Immersing yourself in the Norwegian culture
- 4Getting to know the Norwegian people
- 5Revitalising yourself
1. Discovering the breath-taking landscapes
The term "breath-taking" is appropriate. Norway stands out for what it has to offer: natural parks, fjords, glaciers that delight hiking enthusiasts, cross-country skiing, and any other outdoor activity you can imagine. Among the things you have to see, the Geiranger fjord is definitely a must, and the Hardangervidda plateau, Jostedal Glacier, and even the Lofoten islands are among the many places that will make your trip to Norway an unforgettable experience. Many cruises stop in several cities in the north and west, from Kirkenes to Bergen, allowing you to discover a completely different side of Norway.
2. Enjoying unique experiences
Seeing the midnight sun, observing the aurora borealis, or stumbling upon a herd of reindeer - there's no need to leave the continent to get the chance to experience these moments. Thanks to its geographic position and climate, Norway is a country that offers numerous possibilities when it comes to unique experiences.
3. Immersing yourself in the Norwegian culture
When it comes to language, you'll notice that Norwegian certainly has some similiarities to German, and therefore English as well. Fortunately, the Norwegian people speak English very well. Of course, culture isn't limited to just language, but also includes eating habits (meal times, most consumed products, etc.) and the way of life, which personally impressed me, Both modern and authentic, Norway has found the balance that pleases everyone. Overall, it's a very nice place to stay, and you easily get used to this way of life.
4. Getting to know the Norwegian people
Although Norwegians may seem distant at first, their kindness and willingness, which always include lots of discretion, make it so you never feel like you're alone. Politeness, trust, and solidarity are acquired values that are an integral part of Norwegian society. Be careful though, respect for others means respecting the rules, and that isn't something to take lightly. Discussion and bargaining really have no place there.
5. Revitalising yourself
Although many countries are experiencing intense tourist development, Norway has managed to retain its natural places, and somehow limit the mass influx of tourists. It is not uncommon to find yourself alone in nature, facing the vast openness, making you feel like you're at the end of the world. If you're looking for peace and tranquillity, then this country is for you. Of course, just like everywhere else, some places are crowded with tourists during peak season. This is true for Flåm, a small village served by both the Flåmsbana (a tourist train that runs from Flåm to Myrdal) and by many cruise ships.
Discover the destination
Why travel in Norway
Why go on a trip to Norway? What are the indisputable advantages of this unusual destination? What things might upset you or make you not want to go there?
You should go if...
- You like nature. Norway is quite simply one of the most beautiful countries in Europe with landscapes, depending on the region, of islands (Lofoten Islands), fjords (the west coast) or mountains and plains (the north).
- You dream about Lappland. This enormous, more or less undefined region, extends from Norway to Russia, via Sweden and Finland. It's a mysterious and attractive land which never ceases to fascinate.
- You love extreme seasons. In winter you can see the northern lights and in summer the midnight sun. In the north of the country night is almost non-existent in summer!
- You like open-air sports: fishing, rafting, trekking (on skis, on foot, on sled), cruises... Norway is paradise for sporty types.
- You love atypical destinations, like Svalbard, Spitsbergen, North Cape, Kirkenes... In Norway the cold is king. If you love winter, you will be in heaven.
- You want to know more about the Sami, the only indigenous people in Scandinavia, nomad reindeer herders who live in Lappland.
- You like wild camping. The right to roam is a basic right in Norway. Which means that you can camp (nearly) everywhere in the country!
You shouldn't go if...
- You are travelling on a limited budget. Norway is a very expensive place and the prices can shock (£6.50 for a pint in a pub, for example).
- You like enormous cities with lots of life. Norway is not exactly a place where you go to visit the towns (although Oslo and the other towns are very pleasant places).
- You don't like animals. There are lots in Norway - bears, elks, whales, dolphins, eagles - altogether a very varied animal life which will please everyone, big or small.
- You only speak English. The vast majority of the population are bilingual and speak English very well but it's still possible you may have a few communication problems.
- You're looking for a lazy holiday. The only way to explore Norway is to move, on foot, by boat or in a car.
Customize your perfect trip to Norway
Discover all our travel ideas for a trip in Norway.
When to go in Norway?
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The best time to travel to Norway is between May and September. With May comes the arrival of spring, totally transforming the appearance of Norway; the days are longer and the country is filled with flowers in full bloom. Between June and August, the weather can be a little unpredictable: nice, warm weather is as likely as chilly, wet weather. In May and September, the weather is quite mild, with clear skies. It's best to travel during this time unless you absolutely must go skiing no matter what or unless you plan to visit Lapland. The thing is, from October to April, it can be freezing cold and many places of interest are closed to visitors. You should also consider the differences in the climates of the various regions of Norway. For example, the southern part of the country isn't too cold so you can travel there throughout the the entire year. Go and experience fjords, dream archipelagos and the northern lights in this extraordinary country.
What to see in Norway?
Top places to discover.
See all places
Prepare your trip in Norway
Some useful tips to help you prepare for a trip to Norway.
What documents to travel with in Norway?
You will need a passport to enter Norway, and if your passport describes you as a British Citizen, you won't need a visa to enter. If you have another type of British nationality, you should check the current entry requirements on the website of the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).
For a stay in Norway, your passport is valid for the proposed duration of your stay; you don’t need any additional period of validity on your passport beyond this. Norwegian authorities will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.
Health advise
There are no particular precautions in terms of health to take in order to travel to Norway.
British citizens should carry an European health insurance card (EHIC) as this will allow access to state-provided healthcare at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free. You can apply for the EHIC at the NHS website, http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx.
Language
The official language is Norwegian.
Time difference
Norway's time zone is one hour ahead of the UK.
Phone and internet connection
Norway's phone country code is +47.
In general, all hotels have Wi-Fi. There are also free internet connections in municipal libraries. Finally, you'll find many cafes that are also equipped with Wi-Fi.
Electricity
Electrical outlets in Norway are different than those in the UK, so you'll need an adapter for outlet types C and F.
British Embassy in Norway
Thomas Heftyes Gate 8
0244 Oslo
Embassy of Norway in London
25 Belgrave Square
SW1X 8QD London, United Kingdom
Police: 02800 (in Oslo)
Emergency Police: 112
Ambulances/Medical Emergencies: 113
