Norway islands

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Start planning your island vacation in Norway

The land of the midnight sun, Norway has many beautiful islands worth exploring. And in summer, the long days offer an opportune time to make the most of an island vacation here. They are equally beautiful in winter, too, though, with prolonged sunrise and sunsets that color the skies all manner of yellows, pinks and reds. Expect to see and hear hundreds of seabirds, squawking throughout the day, and enjoy the salty scent of the ocean as you travel around the gorgeous island landscapes. 

What makes Norway islands unique?

Hundreds of small islands and islets dot the coastline of Norway, creating perfect little vacation spots. On Norway’s islands, hectic everyday challenges become distant memories—picture smooth bare rocks in the deep-blue ocean, boats bobbing on the water, and small wooden white-washed houses on the horizon. 

The best islands to visit in Norway

Norway’s islands are good enough for royalty—the Norwegian Crown Prince and Princess often spend their vacations island-hopping, enjoying the breathtaking rawness of this northern European landscape. Movement between the islands is easy, and visitors are free to travel at their own leisure between them using kayaks or small boats. Here are some of the best islands to visit in Norway.

Get away from it all on Sandøya

The small island of Sandøya has just 200 residents and has no road connection to the mainland, relying entirely on boats for getting around. Surrounded by rocky outcrops, smooth-faced and perfect for sunbathing, it’s a remote and beautiful place for a relaxing island vacation in Norway. Local artisans create souvenirs and gifts for bringing home, and clever island cooks whip up great fish soup and cinnamon buns at the island’s restaurants.

Go camping on Merdø

Long beaches, endless ocean views, and typically Norwegian painted wooden houses form enchanting backdrops at Merdø. A popular summer day out for locals and visitors alike, bring your picnic and towel for a day of sunbathing here. Visit the Merdøhus Museum to learn about the island’s history, and if you want to stay overnight under the stars, bring a tent to camp out by the ocean.

Explore the Old Harbor at Ny-Hellesund

Ny-Hellesund isn’t an island, but a village that’s spread across a cluster of three islands. Sitting on the shores of Kapelløya, Monsøya and Helgøya, this quaint little settlement is a fascinating insight into Norwegian island life. There’s also an old, historic WWII coastal fort, well worth a visit. 

Explore Tromsøya’s “Paris of the north”

Sitting on a strait between the mainland and a larger island, Tromsøya has one of Norway’s most captivating cities. Tromsø, nicknamed the “Paris of the north” in the 19th century, is the gateway to the Arctic and a fascinating place to spend a few days. Enjoy the slick city vibes, then get out into the countryside on the rest of the island where you can hike, cycle or try fishing. In winter time, the aurora borealis are often seen here. 

Tips for planning an island-hopping trip in Norway

Getting around Norway's islands is easy, with ferries and bridges connecting many of them. Cash is no longer king here, either, with most establishments accepting plastic. Note that in summer, the north of Norway experiences almost 24-hour sunlight, and in winter it can be plunged into darkness for days on end.

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.
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Traveller reviews of their trip to Norway

4.934 reviews
Steven & Jo
5
We travelled from Oslo to Voss onto Bergen then Tromso. Our guide Stig in Oslo was very good company , fantastic facts and knowledge about Oslo. The ski resort in Voss is very accessible and the young people who work up there are super friendly and helpful. The restaurant is gorgeous too. Tromso was amazing , we got to see the Northern lights with an arranged mini bus trip by Evaneos. The dog sledding trip was Tromso’s highlight, we went to the Villmarkssenter , the crew were super fun especially Lauris our guide for the morning. The boat trip was very special too on board The Capella with Captain Jack. The hearty warming Norwegian salmon chowder made by Marta was the best.
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Iris F
5
I had spent a few days in Copenhagen first and then made my way to Bergen by plane. From there, I followed Andre’s directions for travel to downtown Bergen, checked into my modern and central hotel, and spent time at an art museum. The next day I explored Bergen with a lifetime resident and learned so much about the history of the city. En route to Oslo I experienced travel via train, bus, and even a fjord cruise through the gorgeous Nærøyfjord. I appreciated that André understood how important it was to me to experience the sights and scenic routes Norway has to offer. I checked into another modern and central hotel in Oslo and spent the next day exploring town with another local expert and doing some Christmas shopping. I would love to come back to Scandinavia again in the future- maybe next time in the summer!
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Fgg Traveler
5
Anne helped up choose the itinerary. Bergen then Kalvag then Stryn then Oslo. 2 nights in each location. Hiking and sightseeing in each location. 1/2 day tour in each location
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