It’s no secret that Norway is cold! That’s why the best time to visit the breathtaking Scandinavian country is during its warmer summer months, when it often even reaches 70 degrees. What’s even more special about the summer is how long the days are — in the northern regions of the country sometimes the entire day is lit in the summer months. Here are six Norwegian destinations to consider journeying to this summer.
Best Summer Destinations in Norway
1. Norway
Norway’s capital and most populated city, Oslo is the best of both worlds — breathtaking nature and a cultural hub for the nation. Oslo is located on one of Norway’s famous fjords and surrounded by mountains and forest. For those who like their nature a little more landscaped, the city also abounds with large, green parks. And for those who’d rather stay in doors, Oslo is undoubtedly the museum center of Norway. Check out the Munch Museum to view The Scream, learn more about the country at The National Museum, and imagine what life used to be like at the Viking Ship Museum, which is home to three Viking ships.
2. Norway
While Oslo is king of the south, Tromso is the biggest city in Northern Norway. The city center, which is mainly located on the island of Tromsoya, is famous for having the most wooden houses in Northern Norway, making it an idyllic setting. What makes it even more beautiful, however, are the Northern Lights that can often be spotted from the city. While you’re there, make sure to take in the surrounding fjords, mountains, and birch tree forests.
3. Stavanger
If you’re looking to improve your tan, Norway probably isn’t the summer vacation destination for you. However, Stavanger, in the southwest of the country, does have some beautiful white beaches. There’s many other things to see in the town, such as the nearby Preikestolen, a flat rock with a breathtaking view.
4. Norway
The Lofoten Islands might be one of the most picturesque destinations in an already altogether picturesque country. The green isles, which form an archipelago in the north of the country, have everything from quaint fishing villages to fjords to peaks. And though it’s quite far north, the islands often have a temperate climate due to the Gulf Stream.
5. Norway
One of the most famous images that comes to mind when most people think of Norway are rows of colorful wooden houses. Bergen is where these structures can be found, in the Bryggen waterfront district, famous for its delicious, fresh seafood. Bergen, which is often called the gateway to the fjords, is also a scenic journey away from Oslo on the Oslo-Bergen rail line. The train passes through forests, plateaus, and fjords in one of the most beautiful railroad trips out there.
6. Jotunheimen National Park
Though not a city, Jotunheimen National Park is a worthy destination in itself. Hikers flock to Norway every year, and this makes clear why. With the country’s 29 highest peaks all located within it, as well as the highest waterfall, Jotunheimen is a site to behold, and the top destination for adventurers traveling to Norway.
This article was written by Isabella Sayyah.