1. The Oslo Region
Oslo, Norway’s capital, has experienced significant transformation over the past decade, resulting in funky new neighbourhoods, floating saunas, a vibrant event calendar, and exciting new museums and attractions. Visitors can easily combine urban exploration with outdoor activities, as the neighbouring Oslofjord and expansive forests offer opportunities for cycling, hiking, and skiing at some of Norway’s premier ski resorts. The surrounding regions of Østfold and Vestfold are also worth exploring, with coastal gems like Fredrikstad and Tønsberg offering charm and relaxation.

2. Tromsø and the Land of the Northern Lights
Located in the heart of Northern Norway, Tromsø is renowned as the capital of the Arctic. It’s an ideal destination for those eager to witness the northern lights, go whale watching, experience the midnight sun, or embark on adventurous activities in breathtaking natural surroundings. The Lyngenfjord region is perfect for ski touring, biking, and hiking. Visitors can immerse themselves in Sami culture in towns such as Karasjok and Alta, and venture to the North Cape, Europe’s northernmost point. The Varanger peninsula offers exceptional birdwatching, while Kirkenes and Varanger provide king crab fishing, dog sledding, and the unique chance to stay in an ice hotel.

3. Lofoten and Nordland
Lofoten and Vesterålen captivate with their dramatic peaks, glittering fjords, authentic fishing villages, and pristine beaches. These regions are famous for their spectacular displays of the northern lights and the midnight sun. Travellers are encouraged to visit outside of peak summer to enjoy the scenery without the crowds. Narvik is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing, biking, and hiking. Helgeland, just south of here, features the scenic Coastal Route between Trøndelag and Bodø, considered one of the world’s most beautiful drives.

4. Bergen and the Western Fjords
Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, blends UNESCO World Heritage sites with a lively fashion, culinary, and music scene. The city boasts top museums, including the KODE art museums and composer homes, and invites exploration through its cobblestone streets and surrounding mountain peaks. Bergen serves as the gateway to the renowned Sognefjord in the north and Hardangerfjord in the south, the latter home to the iconic Trolltunga. Many side fjords are equally stunning yet less crowded.

5. The Geirangerfjord and the Northwest
Ålesund, with its art nouveau architecture, is the starting point for adventures in Norway’s northwest. This region draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round. From Ålesund, travellers can easily access the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, known for the Seven Sisters and other impressive waterfalls cascading down steep mountains. Åndalsnes, famed as the mountaineering capital, is surrounded by legendary peaks accessible by hiking or gondola. Nearby attractions include the Trollstigen mountain road and The Atlantic Road. The Rauma Railway, ending in Åndalsnes, is celebrated as one of the world’s most scenic train journeys.

6. The Stavanger Region
Stavanger, the largest city in southwestern Norway, offers Michelin-starred dining, historic wooden houses, acclaimed street art, and a multicultural atmosphere. It’s the perfect base for exploring natural wonders like the Lysefjord and Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock). The Jaren coastline is a dream for beach lovers, with some of Norway’s widest and whitest beaches, and excellent conditions for surfing and kitesurfing. Travelling along the North Sea Road towards Egersund reveals charming seaside towns such as Sogndalstrand, strung along the coast like pearls.

7. Trondheim and Trøndelag
Midway through Norway lies Trøndelag, renowned for its appeal to both history enthusiasts and avid outdoor adventurers. This region is a culinary destination, having been named European Region of Gastronomy in 2022. Activities abound, from fishing and cycling to skiing and hiking one of the nine St. Olav Ways pilgrim paths leading to the imposing Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. The city itself is vibrant and known for its Nordic flavours, offering experiences from Michelin-starred dining to trendy food bars and cosy cafés. The scenic Golden Road in Innherred is perfect for sampling fresh local produce, while the UNESCO-listed mining town of Røros offers a journey back in time. In the Dovrefjell mountains, visitors might spot the majestic musk oxen.

8. Kristiansand and Southern Norway
Southern Norway is a beloved summer haven for locals, featuring beautiful beaches, thousands of islands, and more sunshine than most other parts of the country. Picturesque coastal towns such as Risør, Arendal, Grimstad, Mandal, and Flekkefjord feature narrow streets and traditional white wooden houses. The Setesdal valley is the heart of Norwegian folk traditions. Kristiansand, the largest city in the region, has an old town called Posebyen, renowned for its seafood, city beach, and lively festivals. Families will enjoy Dyreparken zoo and amusement park. Lindesnes lighthouse, the southernmost point on mainland Norway, is nearby, adding to the region’s allure.

9. The Mountains and Valleys of Eastern Norway
Eastern Norway is characterised by dense forests, deep valleys, and vast mountain plateaus, making it an excellent destination for nature-based activities. The area is home to leading ski resorts such as Geilo, Trysil, and Hemsedal, which transform into world-class cycling and outdoor hubs during the warmer months. Long valleys like Valdres, Hallingdal, and Gudbrandsdalen offer family-friendly attractions, including theme parks, quaint farms, and scenic hikes. The Telemark region features the historic Telemark canal and spectacular views from Gaustatoppen mountain.

10. The Svalbard Archipelago
The Svalbard archipelago is located in the Arctic Ocean between Norway and the North Pole and offers extraordinary wildlife experiences year-round. The landscape is both rugged and fragile, providing a backdrop for dog sledding, ice caving, snowmobile safaris, and northern lights hunting. Svalbard is home to thousands of polar bears and nearly 3,000 residents. The main settlement, Longyearbyen, is a vibrant mini metropolis with cultural events and quality dining options typically found only in larger cities.