last edited Aug 14, 2020
Things to Do in Norway
Beaches and Seaside Resorts
Water Activities
Canoeing and kayaking:
Diving: Even if it’s not the usual image associated with the country, diving is practiced in Norway along the coast, in the fjords, and even under ice in the Svalbard Archipelago. The Lofoten Islands or even Narvik and its shipwrecks offer great opportunities.
Sailing:
Thalassotherapy and Wellness
Hiking
Hiking
There is an extensive network of marked trails with around 500 more or less staffed and managed huts by the Norwegian Trekking Association. You can hike in the mountains, plains, along the fjords, on the coastline, and of course in the country’s various national parks. In short, there are plenty of options for all durations and levels, including guided hikes for those who prefer it.
The hiking season generally runs from June to October, peaking in July-August when the destination attracts the most visitors. However, this varies by location. In the south and along the coast, the hiking season is longer, while in some northern or mountainous areas, it’s limited to the summer months. Regardless of the time or journey, it’s best to be self-sufficient with good equipment and plan accommodations in advance, booking if you want a spot in a hut. In all cases, caution is essential regarding nature, the climate, and the elements.
Cycling
Given its size, Norway offers countless cycling or mountain biking routes, whether you bring your own bike or rent one on-site. For all levels and durations, on routes of varying difficulty, in cities, the countryside, along the coast, by the fjords, or in southern or Lapland parks, the options are vast. Generally, the best season for cycling is from June to mid-September, though the further north you go, the shorter this ideal period becomes.
Practically speaking, as always, it’s best to be well-equipped. For accommodations, Norway, like other European countries, has implemented a "Cyclists Welcome" system, ensuring a warm welcome, information, and various services for cyclists passing through selected locations. Additionally, you can take your bike on Norwegian trains and buses, usually for half the price of an adult ticket.
Horseback Riding
Fjord Cruises
The Coastal Express
A true Norwegian institution for over a century, the Coastal Express (Hurtigruten in Norwegian) continuously connects 34 ports from Bergen to Kirkenes (2,700 km) in an 11-day round trip. Each year, over 400,000 passengers discover the stunning Norwegian coast thanks to this service, despite the cost.
Winter Sports
Skiing
Other Winter Activities
Snowmobiling: The Norwegian Lapland is an excellent area for snowmobiling across vast spaces. It’s also a popular winter activity offered by travel agencies, from beginner initiation to multi-day expeditions for experienced riders.
Ice skating:
Snow kiting: A snow-based variant of kitesurfing. Beyond ski resorts that offer this "extreme sport," the Hardangervidda National Park remains a world-renowned hotspot for the activity.
Dog sledding: The Norwegian Lapland is a well-known destination for dog sledding excursions. Local providers offer routes for all levels, distances, and durations. However, the activity can also be practiced elsewhere in the country, and it’s even possible to replace dogs with reindeer.
Igloo stays and ice hotels:
Outdoor and Nature Sports
Golf
Hunting and Fishing
Whitewater Activities
Canyoning:
Rafting: Several Norwegian rivers offer rafting with descents for all levels and audiences.
Other Activities
Paragliding and aerial sports:
Climbing and mountaineering: Whether in "outdoor climbing parks" or, more commonly, on cliffs or in winter on frozen waterfalls like the one at Rjukan and its surroundings, there are plenty of opportunities for climbers.
Caving: