Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, with dramatic fjords, rugged mountains, colorful coastal towns, and Arctic landscapes stretching far into the north. It’s also one of the most expensive countries I’ve traveled through, particularly when it comes to restaurants and everyday services.
I visited during winter, with much of my trip focused on the Arctic. My main goal was to see the northern lights, although I also wanted to experience the dramatic scenery and unusual activities that come with traveling so far north. I explored Tromsø during the polar night, watched humpback whales feeding in the Arctic fjords, and visited historic Trondheim around New Year’s. The northern lights never put on the spectacular display I’d hoped for, but the experience of traveling through Norway in winter was memorable nonetheless. Despite the high costs, the country offered enough extraordinary scenery and experiences to make the journey worthwhile.
Explore Tromsø
Located nearly 70 degrees north, well above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of Norway’s most popular gateways to the Arctic. Despite its remote latitude, the city has a lively center with restaurants, museums, shops, and a picturesque harbor surrounded by mountains and fjords. Major attractions include the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria aquarium, and the Fjellheisen cable car, which offers panoramic views over the city and surrounding waterways.
Tromsø is also an important base for Arctic excursions. During winter, visitors can join northern lights tours, whale-watching cruises, and other adventures through the snow-covered landscapes and fjords of northern Norway. The polar night creates an unusual atmosphere, with the sun remaining below the horizon for weeks, while summer brings the opposite phenomenon of the midnight sun. This combination of city attractions, Arctic wildlife, and dramatic natural scenery makes Tromsø one of Norway’s most distinctive destinations.
Explore Trondheim
Trondheim is one of Norway’s oldest and most historically significant cities, having served as the country’s capital during part of the medieval period. Its most famous landmark is Nidaros Cathedral, an impressive Gothic church built over the burial site traditionally associated with Saint Olav. The cathedral remains one of Scandinavia’s most important religious and architectural landmarks.
Beyond the cathedral, Trondheim is known for its colorful wooden warehouses along the Nidelva River, the historic Bakklandet neighborhood, and the Old Town Bridge. The compact city center makes it easy to explore on foot, with museums, traditional architecture, restaurants, and waterfront scenery providing plenty to discover. Trondheim offers a different side of Norway from the Arctic landscapes of Tromsø, emphasizing the country’s medieval history and cultural heritage.
