Norway is a land of picturesque mountain landscapes, deep coastal fjords and glaciers. Its attractions, created by nature itself, are harmoniously complemented by the architecture of cozy cities.
Norway's natural beauty is in balance with social and cultural life. There are cosmopolitan cities here that highlight modern Scandinavian life. Moreover, each of them traces a traditional past. You can get acquainted with this amazing country by visiting ten of the most picturesque places.
This city lies on a narrow peninsula on the west coast of Norway. Alesund is considered the gateway to the majestic northwest fjords and the Alpine mountains.
The city was rebuilt in Art Nouveau and Art Nouveau styles after a fire in 1904. You can learn more about the history of Alesund by visiting the Jugendstilsenteret Art Nouveau Center. A visit to the Fjellstua observation deck will open up absolutely amazing views of the mountains and nearby islands.
It is the largest city in northern Norway, famous for its 18th century wooden houses and picturesque nature. There are such historical and cultural places as the Polar Museum and the Marine Aquarium. In addition, Tromsø is suitable for those who dream of observing the northern lights.
Norway's third largest city is the ideal starting point for exploring the country. Trondheim has many faces - it is known for its culture, technology, students, food and cycling. It has a vibrant, modern city vibe that is inextricably intertwined with history. Perhaps this is due to the fact that it was Trondheim that was the capital of the country during the Viking Age.
The leading national park is located in the southern part of the country and includes the 29 highest peaks in Norway. Hundreds of hiking trails have been developed here that will lead travelers to fantastic glaciers, clear deep forest lakes and panoramic valleys.
The name "Svalbard" translates as "cold shores". The archipelago, located in the Arctic Ocean between Norway and the North Pole, is the northernmost permanently inhabited point. The pristine arctic desert, combined with rare wildlife, creates an environment that, while harsh, is incredibly fun for travelers. Most tourists visit Longyearbyen, which is the largest settlement in the archipelago. This tiny but vibrant city has grown from a traditional village to a modern venue with festivals, exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events. The adventurer here can see striking rocky mountains, pristine glaciers, polar bears, reindeer, caribou, whales, walruses and more.
Oslo is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. It is a cosmopolitan place with world-class restaurants and art galleries, but still retains the charm of a small town. Oslo is the capital and home of not only the royal family, but also major cultural institutions such as the Norwegian National Theater, the Nobel Peace Center and the Norwegian Academic Opera House.
Stavanger is distinguished from most Norwegian cities by its sandy beaches and warmer climate. Tourists who want to feel the taste of Scandinavia, mixed with sand and surf, love to visit here. Due to its location in the southwest of the country, the local harbor is the main stopover for tourist and cruise ships.
The beauty of the Lofoten Islands is so incredible that it is difficult to believe in its reality. This remarkable wilderness outpost highlights the unspoiled landscapes of deep fjords, majestic mountain ranges, unique seabird colonies and exquisite beaches. Despite the fact that it is located at about the same latitude as Greenland, the climate in this archipelago is quite mild thanks to the Gulf Stream. Here you can go kayaking between the islands, surfing, fishing, snorkeling, hiking, skiing and much more.
There are picturesque fjords all over Norway and each of them deserves attention. But the most famous and awe-inspiring are found in western Norway between Molde and Stavanger. Two of them, the Nrøyfjord and the Geirangerfjord, are the most unique and sought after fjords on the planet. Here are concentrated both ancient and modern glaciers and deep dank valleys, which are marked by rocky relief.
The city of the Northern Lights, Alta, is a popular destination for observing this natural phenomenon. At the end of the 19th century, the first observatory in history was built here to observe it. Also among the popular attractions of Alta are the rock paintings of the Sami culture, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. They date back to 4200-500 BC. BC NS. A visit to the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, completely made of ice, can be no less interesting.
