As a seasoned traveler with a few notches on my passport, I have to say, Norway holds a special place in my travels.
The mixture of dramatic scenery, fascinating history, and its importance to my Viking-obsessed child makes it a favorite.
In this post, I will share an 11-day itinerary in Norway. I'll help you navigate that preparation, covering the basics you'll need to travel. Let’s start!
1. Considerations When Planning Your Norway Travel Route
Before you set foot in the land of the Vikings (and trolls and fjords , it's worth thinking about several factors that will influence your trip. These include:
Budget: Know how much you want to spend as it influences your choices from dining to accommodations.
Accommodation Options: From cozy cabins to luxurious hotels, choose what enhances your stay.
Time of Year: Norway, not unlike Mother Russia, is a country heavily shaped by its seasons, so pick your battles.
Interests and Activities: Are you here to climb the highest peaks or just zoom in on the most northerly McDonalds? It matters.
Health and Safety: Stay updated on health advisories and ensure you have necessary insurance.
Travel Restrictions and Visas: Ensure your paperwork is in order, especially post-COVID-19 restrictions.
2. Explore Norway: 11-Day Journey
So, here you are. An 11-day whirlwind tour of the best that Norway has to offer – both the classic spots you should definitely pay a visit, and some lesser-heralded locales that dubiously deserve more acclaim.
Starting in – and looping back to – Oslo, the plan with this route is to ensure you get a good taste of some unmissable cultural and scenic highlights in just under a fortnight.
Norway 11 Days Trip Table:
Day | Destination | Recommended Activities/Route |
1 | Oslo | Attractions: Oslo Opera House, Munch Museum, National Museum, Shopping in the city center Stay: Central city location |
2-5 | Tromso | Day 2: Explore town, take cable car, view city lights Day 3: Day trip to Senja Island, Aurora hunting Day 4: Visit Kvaløya and Ringvassøya Islands, ferry to Torsvag Day 5: Visit Tromso Cathedral, boat to Lofoten |
6-9 | Lofoten Islands | Rent a car at Evenes Airport Day 6: Driving from Evenes to Svol Day 7: Drive to Hamnoy Accommodation: Beachfront room recommended Food: Arctic sweet shrimp and salmon Day 8: Town of Reine and A, and return to Svol Attractions: Mini Museum, Red Wooden House by the Sea Day 9: Drive back to Evenes from Svol and fly to Bergen |
10-11 | Bergen | Bryggen Pier, ride the funicular, enjoy local seafood Stay: Near the train station for convenience |
Day 1: Oslo
Touch down in Oslo and make your first stop at the Oslo Opera House. You may want to see a show here, or simply enjoy walking on its slanted outer roof.
Head to the Munch Museum to see a certain painting, walk the sculpture park, and hit the trendy bars and restaurants of Aker Brygge to feel like a local.
What to Do Today:
Oslo Opera House: Check out the architecture, and the city rooftop view.
Munch Museum: Explore more fine art, focusing on the oeuvre of the troubled Edvard Munch.
National Museum: Its new construction is recent – this place is full of Norwegian art, architecture and design.
Aker Brygge: The modern quayside is perfect for walking, eating and seeing everyday Oslo.
Where to Stay:
There are plenty of hotels close to Karl Johans Gate in the city center, providing easy access to attractions, nightlife and shopping options.
Consider the Oslo Pass to enjoy free entry to more than 30 museums and free transport.
Visit in late spring or early summer for maximal daylight to explore.
Days 2-5: Tromsø
Begin your Arctic adventure by flying from Oslo to Tromsø, a vibrant city located well above the Arctic Circle. Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø offers a blend of cultural and outdoor activities, set against a backdrop of dramatic fjords and mountain vistas.
Day 2: Arrival and City Exploration
Spend your second day in Tromsø orienting yourself with the city, wander the city center, browse local shops and appreciate the views of the surrounding ocean.
You can also take the funicular up to the cable car station on Mount Storsteinen to see the city bathed in the golden light of the midnight sun – or freezing aurora borealis in winter – before sunset.
What You Can Do Today:
Fjellheisen Cable Car: A trip to the viewing platform at the top offers panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding islands.
Evening City Lights: Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Tromsø at night, whether it’s under the midnight sun or the northern lights.
Where to Stay:
Stay in a hotel in central Tromsø for easy walking access to attractions and dining options.
Day 3: Senja Island Day Trip
Rent a car and take a day trip to the nearby Senja Island, known for its stunning landscapes and small, picturesque fishing villages. Explore the diverse scenery from lush forests to jagged peaks, and find a secluded spot for a peaceful hike.
What You Can Do Today:
Scenic Drives: Follow the National Tourist Route, a well-marked road that winds through some of Senja’s most beautiful landscapes.
Aurora Hunting: In the evening, join a guided group to chase the Northern Lights, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Where to Stay:
Stay at the Aurora Hotel or cabins on Senja Island and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Day 4: Kvaløya and Ringvassøya
Continue your adventure by exploring the islands of Kvaløya and Ringvassøya. These less-visited locations offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sea eagles and whales.
Take a ferry ride to the remote village of Torsvag, where you can really feel the isolation and rugged beauty of the Arctic wilderness.
What You Can Do Today:
Wildlife Watching: Take a guided tour to spot local wildlife and learn about the Arctic ecosystem.
Ferry to Torsvag: Experience the local way of life and enjoy the stunning seascapes.
Where to Stay:
Local Guest Houses or Cabins: For a more immersive stay, there are various guesthouses and cabins on Kvaløya itself.
Often offering a more quaint and homey environment, with magnificent views of the local nature. Not only will an overnight stay truly give you a feeling for the stillness of Arctic nights, in the right season it’s also the best way to literally spot the Northern Lights.
Day 5: Tromsø Cathedral and Departure to Lofoten
Before you leave Tromsø, visit the iconic Tromsø Cathedral, the only wooden cathedral in Norway, known for its picturesque Gothic exterior. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to the Lofoten Islands, your next destination.
What You Can Do Today:
Visit Tromsø Cathedral: Explore this architectural gem and enjoy a quiet moment of reflection.
Boat to Lofoten: Board a local ferry or a fast boat for your transfer to Lofoten, watching the coastline of Tromsø fade into the distance.
Where to Stay:
Stay in Tromsø the night before your boat trip to Lofoten to ensure you are well-rested and ready for the next part of your journey.
Dress in layers, as the weather in Tromsø and the surrounding areas can change quickly.
If renting a car, ensure you are comfortable with potentially snowy or icy driving conditions, especially in winter.
Book your boat tickets to Lofoten in advance to secure your spot, as these can fill up quickly during peak travel seasons.
Days 6-9: Lofoten Islands
Fly to Evenes Airport and spend the next several days exploring the stunning Lofoten Islands. Rent a car at the airport – you’ll need it to fully explore the scenic sights and picturesque towns that dot the archipelago.
Day 6: Evenes to Svolvær
Drive from Evenes Airport to Svolvær, the unofficial capital of the Lofoten archipelago. The drive will introduce you to the first set of the stunning fjords and mountains that define the island.
Spend a relaxing evening exploring the harbor and tasting some of the freshest seafood in the world.
What You Can Do Today:
Explore Svolvær: Hike the Svolvær Goat, a famous rock formation offering adventurous hiking and spectacular views.
Harbor Dinner: Savor incredible Arctic prawns and other local seafood dishes.
Where to Stay:
Opt for a hotel or guesthouse in Svolvær for easy access to all local points of interest.
Day 7: Svolvær to Hamnøy
Drive on to Hamnøy, a charming fishing village viewed by most visitors to Lofoten, thanks to the iconic sight of red Rorbu cabins set against sheer cliffs and deep waters. The journey is spectacular in itself.
What You Can Do Today:
Camera Time: Hamnøy is one of Lofoten’s most photographed spots – you must have seen the pictures of Norway’s traditional fishing culture here.
Visit Local Museums: Engage with the history and art of the region through small, local museums.
Where to Stay:
Stay in a traditional Rorbu (fisherman’s cabin) to immerse yourself in the unique charm and history of Lofoten.
Day 8: Exploring Reine and Å
Head to Reine for another exploring day where the natural beauty is second to none, and the town is often cited as one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Follow up with a visit to end-of-the-road Å, an actually designated village at the very tip of the Lofoten archipelago.
What You Can Do Today:
Reine: Hike to Reinebringen for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and fjords.
Å: Visit the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum to learn about the traditional way of life in Lofoten.
Where to Stay:
Return to your accommodation in Hamnøy, or experience a different Rorbu in Reine for a change of scene.
Day 9: Return to Evenes and Fly to Bergen
Drive back to Evenes from Svolvær, lingering at viewpoints or exploring townships for final snaps or a long lunch before catching your flight to Bergen in the evening, preparing for the next leg of your journey.
Act fast to reserve a car – there can be shortages.
Check the forecast daily because, hey, you’re in the Arctic and the weather can be violent. It may affect outdoor activities, like hikes.
Don’t rush: Lofoten is a place to soak in and roam at a leisurely pace.
Days 10-11: Bergen
End your adventure in Bergen, the comfortable runner-up of Norway's cities. Wander around the UNESCO-listed Bryggen, ride the funicular to Mount Fløyen, or check out the lively fish market.
Activities Include:
Bryggen: Walk through the historic wooden houses of Bergen’s old wharf.
Mount Fløyen: Ride the funicular for aerial views of the city and access to extensive walking trails.
Bergen Fish Market: Sample freshly-caught fish or king crab and other local delicacies.
Where to Stay:
Opt for a stay near the city center, close to Bryggen and the funicular station.
Remember Bergen’s rainy reputation; pack an umbrella or weatherproof clothing.
The many museums in the city will often have free entry days throughout the month.
Tips for Modifying the 11-Day Itinerary:
Options for a longer trip: Add a day to Oslo and explore more of the surrounding natural sights like the Oslofjord.
For a shorter trip: Reduce time spent in either Tromso or Bergen.
3. Top 10 Norwegian Dishes to Try
As you move from those amazing Norwegian views to their awesome food, let's not forget one of the country’s great gifts: its food.
Here are ten dishes you gotta try for a real taste of both traditional and modern Norwegian eats.
1. Rakfisk:
Whole fish fileted and fermented for months on end, served with sour cream and flatbread. Not for the faint of heart, but an unmissable taste of the country’s food scene.
2. Lefse:
A soft sweet flatbread made from potatoes, milk, and flour, commonly eaten rolled with butter and cinnamon sugar or berry jam. Comfort food, though mainly enjoyed around Christmas!
3. Kjøttkaker:
Norwegian-style meatballs, larger and less seasoned than Swedish clichés. Served with boiled potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry jam.
4. Brunost:
A uniquely Norwegian cheese, made by slowly boiling milk, cream, and whey, with a sweet caramel flavor as a result. Try it sliced on bread or waffles.
5. Bacalao:
A culinary nod to Norway’s seafood past, this tomato, onion, and potato pot is filled with salt cod; a meal in itself and common along the coast.
6. Fårikål:
Some consider this lamb-and-cabbage staple the national dish of Norway, a slow-cooked stew best served with boiled potatoes and whole black peppercorns.
7. Klippfisk:
The general term for dried and salted cod, used in other regional dishes (such as Bacalao). The fish soak used to rehydrate the fish is a miniature culture in its own.
8. Sveler:
Comparable to American pancakes, but frequently richer and sweeter, served either plain or with sour cream, jam, or sugar. A common treat on Norwegian ferries.
9. Pinnekjøtt:
Typically a Christmas meal, mutton ribs are dried and salted, then steam-cooked with birch branches to create a smoky flavor.
10. Multekrem:
A layer dessert of cloudberries (an Arctic fruit), sugar, and whipped cream, providing a delightfully creamy finish to any meal, and a demonstration of Norway’s native flora!
4.Additional Tips for Traveling in Norway
Packing Essentials
Norwegian weather is unpredictable at the best of times, and even more so when you're traveling through multiple geographies. Here's what you need to pack:
Layered Clothing: With a bit of luck, you might experience sun, rain, and snow in one day. Insist on breathable, windproof, waterproof attire to tackle the local climate.
Comfortable Footwear: Bring durable, waterproof hiking boots for trails and comfy shoes for wandering around the cities.
Sun Protection: Even in the Arctic Circle, the summer sun can be harsh. Don't rely on the weather to cool things off, bring sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.
Travel Adapters: Norway works on Type F plugs, so make sure you've got the right adaptor with you for your gadgets.
Cash and Local Apps
Even though most places in Norway don't use cash much, it's smart to have some just in case, like for smaller shops or spots out in the countryside.
It is recommended to download the local app.
Vipps: Norway's go-to mobile payment app, and the easiest way to share bills, or pay at farmer's markets.
RuterBillett: for those traveling in and around Oslo on public transport, this app is the ticket – literally, you can buy transport tickets on your phone.
Local Etiquette and Customs
Understanding the culture will help smooth your stay in Norway.
Greetings: Handshakes tend here to be firm, and the locals can be quite reserved. They appreciate a direct approach with minimal circumlocution.
Respect for Nature: Norwegians are fiercely proud of their country's natural beauty. They expect you'll treat it with respect, and that you'll observe guidelines on waste, camping, and keep to the paths when hiking.
Quiet and Privacy: The Norwegian concept of 'Janteloven' is full of dos and don'ts – the latter including making a scene drawing attention to oneself, or disrupting the peace. It might be a bit disconcerting to see a train carriage full of Norwegians swathed in silence, but it's considered good manners to keep chit-chat to a minimum.
Transport Options
Getting around Norway is pretty easy thanks to their good transport network:
Trains: Vy is the company that operates Norway's train routes, some of which pass through stunning gorges, like the line between Oslo and Bergen.
Buses and Ferries: When the tracks fail, Norway is serviced by an extensive bus network and some mighty fine ferries. The latter especially are a great addition, running between fjords and to various islands.
Flights: If you need to cover big distances fast, domestic flights are the way to go. They connect major cities and even remote spots like Svalbard.
Renting a Car or Scooter
Got a need for speed? Maybe take up chess. But if you want flexibility in your travel timetable, renting wheels is a handy option.Just keep in mind:
Driving Conditions: Roads can be narrow, unlit, and full of sharp reptiles in the form of ice in winter, so do adhere to the regulations for your safety.
Licenses: In addition to your home license, you may need an international driving permit.
Communication
Most people here are pretty fluent in English, so language shouldn’t be a problem for you, but a few Norwegian words and phrases can’t hurt, can they?
Bare Necessities: “Hei” (Hello), “Takk” (Thank you), and “Hvor er toalettet?” (Where is the toilet?) are all pretty useful.
Summary
Following the 11-day travel itinerary through Norway, this adventure is your cinema ticket to stunning scenery, exciting cities, and fascinating culture.
With everything from the Northern Lights in Tromso to the waterfalls of Bergen, you’ll return home bragging about every single day.
Go on, print this page, pack your bags and get psyched. You’re in for a real treat!