Norway

Continent

Europe

Best States to Visit

Northern Norway
Trøndelag
Western Norway
Eastern Norway
Southern Norway

Best Cities to Visit

Nordland
Trøndelag
Agder
Vestland
Oslo

Size

385,207 KM²

Population

5,391,369

GDP

$366,000,000,000

Spending Budget

$366 - $1,903

Famous For

The natural landscapes are wonderfully diverse
You can see polar bears in the wild
It’s one of the world’s happiest countries
The sun doesn’t set in summer
Its capital is a modern art hub
Road trips in Norway are virtually unbeatable
You can hunt for the northern lights
Norway’s rail journeys are voted the best in Europe

Best Time to Visit

January
June
July
August
September
October

History

The first inhabitants were the Ahrensburg culture (11th to 10th millennia BC), which was a late Upper Paleolithic culture during the Younger Dryas, the last period of cold at the end of the Weichselian glaciation. The culture is named after the village of Ahrensburg, 25 km (15.53 mi) north-east of Hamburg in the German state of Schleswig-Holstein, where wooden arrow shafts and clubs have been excavated. The earliest traces of human occupation in Norway are found along the coast, where the huge ice shelf of the last ice age first melted between 11,000 and 8,000 BC. The oldest finds are stone tools dating from 9,500 to 6,000 BC, discovered in Finnmark (Komsa culture) in the north and Rogaland (Fosna culture) in the south-west. However, theories about two altogether different cultures (the Komsa culture north of the Arctic Circle being one and the Fosna culture from Trøndelag to Oslofjord being the other) were rendered obsolete in the 1970s. More recent finds along the entire coast revealed to archaeologists that the difference between the two can simply be ascribed to different types of tools and not to different cultures. Coastal fauna provided a means of livelihood for fishermen and hunters, who may have made their way along the southern coast about 10,000 BC when the interior was still covered with ice. It is now thought that these so-called "Arctic" peoples came from the south and followed the coast northward considerably later. In the southern part of the country are dwelling sites dating from about 5,000 BC. Finds from these sites give a clearer idea of the life of the hunting and fishing peoples. The implements vary in shape and mostly are made of different kinds of stone; those of later periods are more skilfully made. Rock carvings (i.e. petroglyphs) have been found, usually near hunting and fishing grounds. They represent game such as deer, reindeer, elk, bears, birds, seals, whales, and fish (especially salmon and halibut), all of which were vital to the way of life of the coastal peoples. The rock carvings at Alta in Finnmark, the largest in Scandinavia, were made at sea level from 4,200 to 500 BC and mark the progression of the land as the sea rose after the last ice age ended

Present Day

The first oil was discovered at the small Balder field in 1967, but production only began in 1999. In 1969, the Phillips Petroleum Company discovered petroleum resources at the Ekofisk field west of Norway. In 1973, the Norwegian government founded the State oil company, Statoil. Oil production did not provide net income until the early 1980s because of the large capital investment that was required to establish the country's petroleum industry. Around 1975, both the proportion and absolute number of workers in industry peaked. Since then labour-intensive industries and services like factory mass production and shipping have largely been outsourced. Norway was a founding member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Norway was twice invited to join the European Union, but ultimately declined to join after referendums that failed by narrow margins in 1972 and 1994. Town Hall Square in Oslo filled with people with roses mourning the victims of the Utøya massacre of 22 July 2011 In 1981, a Conservative government led by Kåre Willoch replaced the Labour Party with a policy of stimulating the stagflated economy with tax cuts, economic liberalisation, deregulation of markets, and measures to curb record-high inflation (13.6% in 1981). Norway's first female prime minister, Gro Harlem Brundtland of the Labour party, continued many of the reforms of her conservative predecessor, while backing traditional Labour concerns such as social security, high taxes, the industrialisation of nature, and feminism. By the late 1990s, Norway had paid off its foreign debt and had started accumulating a sovereign wealth fund. Since the 1990s, a divisive question in politics has been how much of the income from petroleum production the government should spend, and how much it should save. In 2011, Norway suffered two terrorist attacks on the same day conducted by Anders Behring Breivik which struck the government quarter in Oslo and a summer camp of the Labour party's youth movement at Utøya island, resulting in 77 deaths and 319 wounded. The 2013 Norwegian parliamentary election brought a more conservative government to power, with the Conservative Party and the Progress Party winning 43% of the electorate's votes. In the Norwegian parliamentary election 2017 the centre-right government of Prime Minister Erna Solberg won re-election.

Future

Usually when people mention Norway in particular in regards to future existence and prosperity, it has to do with our oil, and the global shift to clean, renewable energy. Some people think Norway will go belly up when we run out of oil, or stop extracting it. It has been stated as a “fact” with considerable schadenfreude by many American right wing people lately. As far as I can tell from the ignorance they reveal about Europe in general and Scandinavia in particular, their opinion is based only on said schadenfreude. Because of our oil, we are - in their expert opinion - more delusional than most other countries in our exitement over the Paris Climate Accord. Our dear neighbours, Finland, Denmark and Sweden, have managed to stay with us among the top of the annual rankings of the UN on high GDP and “best countries to live in”, despite them not having the oil we were forunate enough to find. I see no reason why we should fall behind them, or other prospering, “oil free” nations, when the oil loses its importance to our economy. My worries can at times render me sleepless, but the future of my country is not one of them: For all of our (mostly relatively minor) complaints about Norwegian governments over the decades, they have all been normal adults with the brains and ability to be forward thinking. They haven't frivolously spent the money from the oil industry as it has poured in. We have a substantial oil fund saved up for the future, exactly because they have known that we will some day have to replace this part of our income with other options. They have known that more people grow much older than just a few decades ago, and that people will need care longer and receive pensions for more years. When a responsible government knows what’s coming, they prepare. We have always had good federal governments in that sense; both the conservative and the social democratic ones. Our oil industry has been walking and chewing gum at the same time for many, many years. Clean and renewable energy would inevitably have to become the energy for the future at some point, and smart industry leaders spend years preparing for known, future changes. Scienctific research is not regarded as stupid in Europe, and investments in the future of a nation's economy is not considered a waste of tax payers money. And because they've made those investments in future energy tecnology here in Norway, they now have very real results to show for it. We will still have that very long coast of ours, with all its wind, waves and undercurrent ocean water. When Trump and his die hard base think of windmills, they seem to envisions those picturesque, centuries old mills that the Dutch countryside is known for; mostly used for milling crops of different grains into flour for the bakeries. The industry has been producing powerfull wind turbines for decades now, able to produce and store enormous amounts of electricity. They are working on solutions to stop birds from crashing into them, and promising results have arisen from that research. They are developing different options for harnessing wave/undercurrent energy as well. From what I understand, the Norwegian energy industries have secured some patents, and have other patents pending, in renewable wind and water/ocean energy constructions. Other countries without coastal lines have made similar progress in their own fields and nitches of renewable energy, and are doing well for themselves. Will Norway experience some pains and obstacles during this gradual shift from oil to clean, renewable energy? Yes, probably. It would be a surprise to me if we managed to get through the entire transition without a bruise. But the future is already arriving. We knew it would come, so our energy industry and governments invested and prepared for it. That’s all anyone can do, and we're not doing it alone. Norway is pulling, developing and progressing along side the rest of the world, and preparing for our common future.

Must Visit Places ------------

Sognefjord

The largest of Norway's fjords, Sognefjord reaches 204 kilometers inland from the coastal village of Skjolden and branches off into countless smaller inlets and fjords along the way. At its widest, the King of the Fjords (as it's known by Norwegians) is almost five kilometers across, and the cliff walls reach as high as 1,307 meters, making a breathtaking sight. The most popular way to visit the fjord is by boat, and fjord cruises and sightseeing tours are plentiful. Many of the best tour options depart conveniently from the attractive town of Bergen (be sure to allow a full day for your adventure). Tourists will also enjoy exploring the narrower branches like Naeroyfjord, a spectacular 17-kilometer stretch with cliff walls that are only 250 meters apart and tower more than 1,700 meters above the water.

Pulpit Rock

A tourist attraction best suited for the active traveler thanks to the arduous journey required to get there, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) is nevertheless one of the most popular sights in Norway. Located near Stavanger, the destination requires ferry and bus rides and then a two-hour uphill hike to reach the almost perfectly flat-topped cliff, which looks over Lysefjord, more than 600 meters above the water. Those visiting the Stavanger area will also want to stop by the surprisingly fascinating Norwegian Canning Museum, which is set up as the cannery was during WWII. Stavanger Cathedral is also a top tourist attraction in Stavanger. This 12th-century structure features multiple styles, including a Romanesque basilica, a Baroque pulpit, and a Gothic font.

Tromsø

Situated 349 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is best known for its important role as the base for many major Arctic expeditions since the mid 1800s. The Tromsø area was first settled in the 13th century as a fishing village, and the industry has been an integral part of life here ever since, contributing to the area's maritime charm. Also a result of its northerly position, Tromsø is a top destination for those hoping to see the spectacular aurora borealis, or northern lights. Tourists will find multiple attractions and fun things to do in town that explain and explore the phenomenon, including Polaria and the Polar Museum. An unexpected tourist attraction for an area deep within the frozen north, the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden is home to a plethora of flowering plants. Highlights include hardy rhododendrons and the gigantic Tibetan blue poppy, as well as a garden dedicated to the region's traditional medicinal plants.

Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands form an archipelago off the coast of northwestern Norway and are a popular tourist destination for Norwegians and foreigners alike. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the weather here is mild despite its location within the Arctic Circle. Tourists come here to enjoy the beaches, explore traditional fishing villages, kayak, hike, and see the wildlife. These islands are also one of the best places to visit for a glimpse of the northern lights. There are plenty of attractions and things to do on the islands, especially in Svolvaer, which is the largest town, located on the southern coast of Austvågøy island. Here, you will find the Lofoten War Memorial Museum (Lofoten Krigsminnemuseum), with its World War II collections, and the unique Magic Ice Lofoten, which displays ice sculptures depicting local life. The Lofoten Museum, which explores the history of the island's fishing industry, is also located on Austvågøy, as is the Lofoten Aquarium (Lofotakvariet), which features Arctic sea life.

Viking Ship Museum, Oslo

The largest of Norway's museums dedicated to their seafaring ancestors, the Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset på Bygdøy) in Oslo features three 9th-century Viking vessels, each of which had been laid to rest as burial chambers for prominent Vikings. The largest of these, the 70-foot Oseberg Ship, was built around AD 800. It contained a chieftan's wife and two other women along with many items that give insight into Viking life. The museum is also home to the Gokstad Ship, which is an impressive 23 meters long, and the Tune Ship. Visitors can also view several exhibits and films that focus on the importance of maritime life for that culture. The Viking Ships Museum is operated by the Museum of Cultural History, as is Oslo's Historical Museum, which contains artifacts from around the world and throughout history, from Egyptian mummies to the history of gold coins. One of Oslo's top attractions, it is also home to an expanding Viking Age exhibit, which contains a rare well-preserved Viking helmet.

Bygdoy Peninsula

Oslo's Bygdoy Peninsula is a suburb located only four miles west of the city, and is easily reached by car or public transportation. It is home to several of Oslo's top tourist attractions and also known for its many natural spaces including beaches, parks, and forests. Among its numerous museums, the Bygdoy Peninsula is home to the Center for Studies of Holocaust and Religious Minorities in Norway located in Villa Grande. Another top museum is the Fram Museum, which houses the ships Fram, known for its Polar voyages, and Gjøa (the latter famous for being the first ship to navigate the Northwest Passage). The popular Kon-Tiki Museum is just next door. This area is also home to the Norwegian Maritime Museum (Norsk Maritimt Museum). One of the top places to visit in Oslo for ship and history buffs, the museum explores the role of fishing and other maritime activities in Norwegian life.

Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, Bergen

One of the most popular sightseeing opportunities in Bergen is the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf. This vibrantly painted area was once the city's center of trade and was dominated by Hanseatic merchants. Today, tourists can find several historic buildings that portray life during the Middle Ages, as well as boutiques, restaurants, and the Bryggen Museum. Learn even more at the Hanseatic Museum, which has been open since 1872. This fascinating museum is housed in Finnegård, a 1704 home that was owned by one of the merchants. While in Bergen, visitors will also want to visit Troldhaugen, the former home and workspace of composer Edvard Grieg, as well as the Open Air Market.

Tromsø's Arctic Museums

Tromsø is home to several fantastic museums, two of which are dedicated to studying life in the far north. Polaria is the newest of these, and is home to exhibits about the aurora borealis (northern lights), the effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, and Arctic wildlife, including an Arctic aquarium. The Polar Museum focuses on the area's long history as a fishing community and its more recent status as a primary research base for polar studies. Exhibits include the findings of more recent expeditions and scientific studies, which delve into the world of the dark and cold deep sea of the Arctic.

Vigeland Sculpture Park, Oslo

The Vigeland Sculpture Park is one of Oslo's top tourist attractions, and is home to 650 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. These sculptures, which are formed out of wrought iron, bronze, and granite, are arranged in five themed groups. The most famous of these are in the fountain group, which depicts the cycle of human life, culminating in a 16-meter monolith. This collection is found within the large Frogner Park, which also houses the Vigeland Museum and the Oslo City Museum. Also located here are numerous recreational facilities, including Norway's largest playground and an expansive rose garden.

Akershus Fortress, Oslo

The Akershus Fortress (Akershus Festning) is a medieval castle commissioned by king Håkon V in 1299, later turned into a Renaissance royal residence by king Christian IV in the early 17th century. It sits on a promontory overlooking the Oslofjord, and the grounds have spectacular views over the harbor. Guided tours are available during the summer, and you can also find the Museum of the Norwegian Resistance (Norges Hjemmefrontmuseum) ) on the castle grounds. History buffs may also want to check out the Norwegian Armed Forces Museum (Forsvarsmuseet), which displays weapons and exhibits illustrating Norway's military history. The fortress grounds also provide a lovely backdrop for events including public ceremonies, concerts, and shows.

Lillehammer

Located above Lake Mjøsa at the south end of the Gudbrandsdal valley, Lillehammer is one of Norway's best-known year-round tourist destinations. In summer, it's all about attractions such as Malhaugen Park, an open-air museum consisting of more than 100 historic buildings, including 18th-century farmhouses, workshops, and a stave church. Another notable landmark is Peer Gynt's Cottage. Dating from the early 1700s, it's said to have been the home of the prototype of Ibsen's famed hero. But it's when the snow flies that Lillehammer really shines. Host to the 1994 Winter Olympics, the city's list of winter activities is endless: skating, curling, sleigh rides, more than 480 kilometers of Nordic ski trails, as well as alpine ski centers.

Geirangerfjord

Part of the spectacular Fjord Norway network - and regularly topping the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list - the Geirangerfjord region north of Ålesund offers some of the finest scenery anywhere in Norway. The eastward continuation of the Sunnylvsfjord, the Geirangerfjord boasts some of the country's most spectacular views. One of the best is from the summit of Dalsnibba. At 1,495 meters, the views of the surrounding mountains and the Geirangerfjord far below are simply breathtaking. Numerous cruises and tours are available, but if you're driving, be sure to take the winding Eagles' Road with its 11 hairpin bends and great views.

Scenic Rail Routes

There's no better way to see Norway's stunning countryside than by train. Perhaps surprisingly for such a mountainous country, Norway's rail lines stretch more than 3,218 kilometers, encountering along the way some 775 tunnels and more than 3,000 bridges. The best scenic routes begin in Oslo, including the Bergen Railway, which runs over the Hardangervidda mountain plateau. Other routes of note are the Dovre Railway from Oslo to Trondheim with its sideline, the Rauma Railway, between Dombås and Åndalsnes, and the famous Flåm Railway, the world's steepest. Norway's rail network also offers a number of other interesting diversions, such as classic steam trains, gourmet train excursions, and pedal-powered rail tricycles (draisines) for use on abandoned rail lines.

Atlantic Ocean Road

The Atlantic Ocean Road - one of 18 National Tourist Routes in Norway - is not only a vital connection for the maze of tiny islands it serves, it's also a lure for anglers, diving enthusiasts, and visitors wanting to get as close as possible to the sea. Although just over eight kilometers long, it has gained a reputation as one of the most spectacular stretches of coastal highway in the world, weaving through an archipelago in Eide and Averøy in More og Rømsdal. In addition to the excellent views - always spectacular, whatever the weather - you'll get a chance to visit lovely little fishing villages, quaint wooden churches, and the famous Trolls' Church Cave.

Jotunheimen

The largest Alpine region on the Norwegian high plateau, the Jotunheimen covers an area of 3,499 square kilometers and includes Scandinavia's highest mountains. It's also home to many spectacular waterfalls, rivers, lakes, glaciers, and wildlife, such as large reindeer populations. Two of this national park's mountains rise to heights of more than 2,438 meters, the highest being Galdhøpiggen. Despite its tremendous height, Galdhøpiggen can be climbed in about four hours. Although a guide is required, the incredible views over rocky crags and fields of ice from the summit make it money well spent. Another four-hour climb in the Hurrungane group is to the 1,349-meter Skagastølsbotn and the Skagastølsbre glacier.