Norway is a land of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless adventure. Whether you want to witness the majestic northern lights, explore the breathtaking fjords, or hike the scenic trails, Norway has something for everyone.
But where to stay in Norway to make the most of your trip in 2023? How can you find the best places and hotels that suit your preferences and budget? That’s what this article is all about.
In this article, I will share with you the 10 best places and hotels in Norway that you can choose from, depending on what you want to see and do in this amazing country.
So, if you are planning to visit Norway in 2023, and you are wondering where to stay in Norway, then keep reading.
1. Oslo – The Capital City
Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway, and a great place to start your journey. Oslo is a modern and vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions, such as museums, parks, monuments, shopping, nightlife, and more.
If you want to experience the urban side of Norway, then Oslo is the place for you.
You can visit the famous Oslo Opera House, the Royal Palace, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, the Akershus Fortress, and many other landmarks.
Oslo is also a good base for exploring other parts of Norway, as it has excellent transport connections by train, bus, ferry, or plane.
You can easily take day trips to nearby destinations such as Bergen, Lillehammer, or Tromsø.
Pros:
- A lot of things to see and do in the city
- Good transport links to other parts of Norway
- A wide range of accommodation options for all budgets
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other places in Norway
- Crowded and noisy at times
- Not very close to nature or wilderness
Best time to visit Oslo
Oslo is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
If you want to enjoy the snow and winter activities, then visit between December and March.
If you want to see the flowers and greenery, then visit between May and September.
If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, then visit between October and November or April.
What to do and see in Oslo
Some of the best day trips from Oslo are:
- Bergen: The second-largest city in Norway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bergen is famous for its colorful wooden houses, its historic harbor, its fish market, and its surrounding mountains and fjords.
- Lillehammer: A charming town that hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics. Lillehammer is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, as it offers skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, sledding, and more.
- Tromsø: The largest city in northern Norway and a gateway to the Arctic. Tromsø is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway, as well as whales, reindeer, huskies, and polar bears.
Where to stay in Norway, Oslo
Oslo has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Oslo are:
- The Thief: A luxury boutique hotel located on an island in the Oslofjord. The Thief offers stylish rooms with stunning views, a rooftop terrace with a pool and a bar, a spa with a sauna and a hammam, a restaurant with a Michelin star, and an art collection with works by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, and Jeff Koons.
- Saga Hotel Oslo: A cozy and elegant hotel located in a quiet neighborhood near the Royal Palace. Saga Hotel Oslo offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a garden with a terrace, a lounge with a fireplace, a fitness center with a sauna, and a restaurant with a Nordic cuisine.
- Citybox Oslo: A budget-friendly and eco-friendly hotel located in the city center near the central station. Citybox Oslo offers simple rooms with private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a lobby with vending machines, games, and books.
2. Bergen – The Gateway to the Fjords
Bergen is the second-largest city in Norway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bergen is known as the gateway to the fjords, as it is surrounded by some of the most spectacular fjords in the world, such as the Sognefjord, the Hardangerfjord, and the Nærøyfjord.
If you want to experience the natural beauty of Norway, then Bergen is the place for you.
You can take a cruise, a train, a bus, or a car to explore the stunning scenery of the fjords, the waterfalls, the glaciers, and the mountains.
You can also enjoy some of the best hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and skiing opportunities in the country.
Bergen is also a charming and historic city that offers a lot of culture and heritage. You can visit the iconic Bryggen, the old wharf with colorful wooden houses that date back to the 14th century.
Pros:
- A lot of natural beauty and outdoor activities nearby
- A lot of culture and heritage in the city
- A moderate climate with mild winters and cool summers
Cons:
- Rainy and cloudy most of the year
- Limited accommodation options during peak season
Best time to visit Bergen
Bergen is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
If you want to see the fjords at their best, then visit between May and September. If you want to enjoy the snow and winter activities, then visit between December and March. If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, then visit between October and November or April.
What to do and see in Bergen
Some of the best day trips from Bergen are:
- Sognefjord: The longest and deepest fjord in Norway and one of the most beautiful in the world. Sognefjord offers a variety of attractions, such as the FlĂ¥m Railway, the Stegastein Viewpoint, the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, and the Urnes Stave Church.
- Hardangerfjord: The second-longest fjord in Norway and one of the most scenic in the world. Hardangerfjord offers a variety of attractions, such as the Trolltunga Rock, the Vøringsfossen Waterfall, the Folgefonna Glacier, and the Hardangervidda National Park.
- Nærøyfjord: A branch of the Sognefjord and one of the narrowest and most dramatic fjords in the world. Nærøyfjord offers a variety of attractions, such as the Stalheim Hotel, the Kjosfossen Waterfall, the Undredal Village, and the Gudvangen Viking Village.
Where to stay in Norway , Bergen
Bergen has a moderate range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Bergen are:
- Opus XVI: A luxury boutique hotel located in a historic building near Bryggen. Opus XVI offers spacious rooms with elegant decor, a rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi and a fireplace, a fitness center with a sauna, a library with a piano, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Zander K Hotel: A trendy and eco-friendly hotel located near the central station. Zander K Hotel offers cozy rooms with smart features, a rooftop terrace with a bar and a view, a fitness center with a yoga studio, a lounge with a fireplace, and a restaurant with a Nordic cuisine.
- Marken Gjestehus: A budget-friendly and family-friendly guesthouse located near Bryggen. Marken Gjestehus offers simple rooms with shared or private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a garden with a playground.
3. Tromsø – The Capital of the Arctic
Tromsø is the largest city in northern Norway and a gateway to the Arctic. Tromsø is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway, as well as whales, reindeer, huskies, and polar bears.
You can take a cruise, a bus, or a plane to explore the stunning scenery of the islands, fjords, mountains, glaciers, and forests.
You can also enjoy some of the best winter activities in the country, such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more.
Tromsø is also a lively and a cultural and historical city that offers a lot of attractions, such as the Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, the Tromsø Bridge, the Tromsø Cable Car, the Tromsø Museum, and many others.
Pros:
- A lot of opportunities to see the northern lights and other Arctic wildlife
- A lot of winter activities and adventures nearby
- A vibrant and friendly atmosphere with a lot of festivals, events, and nightlife
Cons:
- Cold and dark most of the year
- Expensive compared to other places in Norway
Best time to visit Tromsø
Tromsø is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
If you want to see the northern lights, then visit between September and March. If you want to enjoy the midnight sun, then visit between May and July. If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, then visit between April and August.
What to do and see in Tromsø
Some of the best day trips from Tromsø are:
- Sommarøy: A small island with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and colorful houses. Sommarøy is a paradise for nature lovers, as it offers a lot of hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling opportunities. You can also see whales, seals, eagles, and puffins in the area.
- Senja: The second-largest island in Norway and one of the most diverse and scenic in the world. Senja offers a variety of attractions, such as the Segla Mountain, the Husfjellet Mountain, the Ă…nderdalen National Park, and the KrĂ¥keslottet Art Gallery.
- Lyngen Alps: A mountain range that stretches along the Lyngenfjord and forms part of the Arctic Circle. Lyngen Alps offers a variety of attractions, such as the Strupbreen Glacier, the Jiekkevarri Mountain, the BlĂ¥vatnet Lake, and the Lyngen Lodge.
Where to stay in Norway, Tromsø
Tromsø has a moderate range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Tromsø are:
- Clarion Hotel The Edge: A luxury hotel located in the city center near the harbor. Clarion Hotel The Edge offers modern rooms with panoramic views, a rooftop terrace with a bar and a view, a fitness center with a sauna, a conference center with a concert hall, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Enter City Hotel: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located in the city center near the cathedral. Enter City Hotel offers comfortable rooms with wooden floors, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a sauna, a bike rental service, and a breakfast buffet with organic products.
- Tromsø Camping: A budget-friendly and family-friendly camping site located in a forest near the river. Tromsø Camping offers cabins with private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a playground with trampolines, mini golf, and volleyball.
4. Lofoten – The Land of the Midnight Sun
Lofoten is an archipelago of islands in northern Norway that lies within the Arctic Circle. Lofoten is known as the land of the midnight sun, as it experiences 24 hours of daylight during the summer months.
Lofoten is also a rich and authentic place that offers a lot of culture and history.
You can visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, the Nusfjord Fishing Village, the Henningsvær Fishing Village, the KabelvĂ¥g Church, and many other attractions.
Pros:
- A lot of natural beauty and outdoor activities nearby
- A lot of culture and history in the islands
- A unique phenomenon of the midnight sun in the summer
Cons:
- Cold and dark most of the year
- Limited accommodation options during peak season
Best time to visit Lofoten
If you want to see the midnight sun, then visit between May and July. If you want to see the northern lights, then visit between September and March.
What to do and see in Lofoten
Some of the best day trips from Lofoten are:
- VesterĂ¥len: A group of islands north of Lofoten that offers a similar landscape but with less tourists. VesterĂ¥len offers a variety of attractions, such as the Andøya Space Center, the Bleik Beach, the Nyksund Ghost Town, and the Sortland Bridge.
- Bodø: The second-largest city in northern Norway and a gateway to Lofoten. Bodø offers a variety of attractions, such as the Saltstraumen Maelstrom, the Norwegian Aviation Museum, the Bodø Cathedral, and the Kjerringøy Trading Post.
- Røst: A small island south of Lofoten that is home to millions of seabirds, such as puffins, gulls, cormorants, and razorbills. Røst offers a variety of attractions, such as the Røst Church, the Røst Museum, the Skomvær Lighthouse, and the Røst Bryggehotell.
Where to stay in Norway, Lofoten
Lofoten has a limited range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Lofoten are:
- Lofoten Links Lodges: A luxury lodge located on a golf course near Hov Beach. Lofoten Links Lodges offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, a terrace with a view, a sauna with a jacuzzi, a golf club with a restaurant, and a shuttle service to the airport.
- Reine Rorbuer: A cozy and traditional fisherman’s cabin located on the waterfront in Reine. Reine Rorbuer offers comfortable rooms with wooden furniture, a balcony with a view, a kitchenette with a fridge, a lounge with a fireplace, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Lofoten Vandrerhjem KabelvĂ¥g: A budget-friendly and eco-friendly hostel located in KabelvĂ¥g near Svolvær. Lofoten Vandrerhjem KabelvĂ¥g offers simple rooms with shared or private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a garden with a barbecue.
5. Stavanger – The Oil Capital
Stavanger is the fourth-largest city in Norway and the oil capital of the country. Stavanger is home to many oil companies, such as Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and BP.
If you want to learn more about the oil industry in Norway, then Stavanger is the place for you.
You can visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, which showcases the history, technology, and challenges of oil exploration and production.
You can also visit the Oil Adventure Center, which offers interactive exhibits and simulations of oil operations.
Pros:
- A lot of information and education about the oil industry
- A lot of culture and history in the city
- A lot of nature and outdoor activities nearby
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other places in Norway
- Crowded and busy at times
- Not very close to the fjords or the mountains
What to do and see in Stavanger
Some of the best day trips from Stavanger are:
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): A massive rock formation that rises 604 meters above the Lysefjord. Preikestolen is one of the most popular and spectacular hiking destinations in Norway, as it offers a stunning view of the fjord and the mountains.
- Kjeragbolten: A large boulder that is wedged between two cliffs 984 meters above the Lysefjord. Kjeragbolten is one of the most daring and thrilling hiking destinations in Norway, as it offers a chance to stand on the boulder and take a photo.
- Flor og Fjære: A tropical island garden that is located in the Sør-Hidle island near Stavanger. Flor og Fjære offers a variety of attractions, such as exotic plants, flowers, trees, ponds, waterfalls, sculptures, and animals. You can also enjoy a buffet lunch or dinner with local ingredients.
Where to stay in Norway, Stavanger
Stavanger has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Stavanger are:
- Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the city center near the lake. Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel offers elegant rooms with city or lake views, a rooftop terrace with a pool and a bar, a fitness center with a sauna, a business center with meeting rooms, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Thon Hotel Maritim: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located in the city center near the cathedral. Thon Hotel Maritim offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a sauna, a bike rental service, and a breakfast buffet with organic products.
- Stavanger Bed & Breakfast: A budget-friendly and family-friendly bed and breakfast located in a quiet neighborhood near the harbor. Stavanger Bed & Breakfast offers simple rooms with shared or private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a garden with a terrace.
6. Ålesund – The Art Nouveau Town
Ă…lesund is a small town in western Norway that is famous for its art nouveau architecture. Ă…lesund was rebuilt in this style after a devastating fire in 1904 that destroyed most of the town.
If you want to admire some of the most beautiful and unique buildings in Norway, then Ă…lesund is the place for you. You can take a walk, a bus, or a boat to explore the colorful and ornate facades, towers, turrets, and spires of the town.
Pros:
- A lot of art and beauty in the town
- A lot of views and activities nearby
- A mild climate with moderate temperatures and rainfall
Cons:
- Small and quiet compared to other places in Norway
- Limited accommodation options during peak season
Best time to visit Ă…lesund
If you want to enjoy the warmest and sunniest weather, then visit between June and August.
If you want to enjoy the snow and winter activities, then visit between December and February.
If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, then visit between March and May or September and November.
What to do and see in Ă…lesund
Some of the best day trips from Ă…lesund are:
- Geirangerfjord: One of the most famous and scenic fjords in Norway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Geirangerfjord offers a variety of attractions, such as the Seven Sisters Waterfall, the Bridal Veil Waterfall, the Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint, and the Dalsnibba Mountain.
- Runde: An island that is home to more than half a million seabirds, such as puffins, gulls, cormorants, and razorbills. Runde offers a variety of attractions, such as the Runde Lighthouse, the Runde Environmental Centre, the Runde Treasure, and the Runde Harbour.
- Hjørundfjord: A branch of the Storfjord and one of the most beautiful and secluded fjords in Norway. Hjørundfjord offers a variety of attractions, such as the Slogen Mountain, the Saksa Mountain, the Norangsdalen Valley, and the Hotel Union Ă˜ye.
Where to stay in Norway,m Ă…lesund
Ă…lesund has a limited range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Ă…lesund are:
- Hotel Brosundet: A luxury boutique hotel located in a former warehouse near the harbor. Hotel Brosundet offers stylish rooms with original features, a terrace with a view, a bar with a fireplace, a spa with a sauna, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Scandic Parken: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located near the park and the church. Scandic Parken offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a sauna, a conference center with meeting rooms, and a breakfast buffet with organic products.
- Ă…lesund Hostel: A budget-friendly and family-friendly hostel located near the art nouveau center. Ă…lesund Hostel offers simple rooms with shared or private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a garden with a barbecue.
7. Trondheim – The Former Capital
Trondheim is the third-largest city in Norway and the former capital of the country. Trondheim was founded in 997 by King Olav Tryggvason, and it served as the seat of the Norwegian kings until 1217.
Trondheim is also a vibrant and modern city that offers a lot of culture and innovation. You can visit the Rockheim, which is a museum dedicated to Norwegian rock music.
You can also visit the Ringve Music Museum, which is a museum dedicated to musical instruments from around the world. You can also enjoy some of the best restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafes in the city.
Pros:
- A lot of history and heritage in the city
- A lot of culture and innovation in the city
- A lively and friendly atmosphere with a lot of students, festivals, and events
Cons:
- Cold and rainy most of the year
- Expensive compared to other places in Norway
- Not very close to the fjords or the mountains
What to do and see in Trondheim
Some of the best day trips from Trondheim are:
- Røros: A historic mining town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Røros offers a variety of attractions, such as the Røros Church, the Røros Museum, the Røros Market, and the Røros Winter Festival.
- Stiklestad: A historic battlefield where King Olav Haraldsson was killed in 1030. Stiklestad offers a variety of attractions, such as the Stiklestad Church, the Stiklestad National Culture Center, the Stiklestad Hotel, and the Stiklestad Medieval Festival.
- Munkholmen: A small island that was once a monastery, a prison, and a fortress. Munkholmen offers a variety of attractions, such as the Munkholmen Tower, the Munkholmen Museum, the Munkholmen Cafe, and the Munkholmen Beach.
Where to stay in Norway, Trondheim
Trondheim has a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Trondheim are:
- Britannia Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the city center near the cathedral. Britannia Hotel offers elegant rooms with classic decor, a spa with a pool and a sauna, a fitness center with a gym, a conference center with meeting rooms, and six restaurants with different cuisines.
- Scandic Nidelven: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located on the river near the rock museum. Scandic Nidelven offers comfortable rooms with river views, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a sauna, a bike rental service, and a breakfast buffet with local products.
- Trondheim Vandrerhjem: A budget-friendly and family-friendly hostel located near the folk museum. Trondheim Vandrerhjem offers simple rooms with shared or private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a garden with a terrace.
8. Kristiansand – The Summer City
Kristiansand is the fifth-largest city in Norway and the summer city of the country. Kristiansand is located on the southern coast of Norway, and it has the warmest and sunniest climate in Norway.
If you want to enjoy some of the best beaches and islands in Norway, then Kristiansand is the place for you.
You can take a ferry, a bus, or a car to explore the sandy and rocky shores, the clear and blue waters, and the charming and cozy cabins of the coast.
Kristiansand is also a fun and family-friendly city that offers a lot of entertainment and activities.
You can visit the Dyreparken (Zoo and Amusement Park), which is one of the most popular attractions in Norway.
You can also visit the Aquarama (Water Park and Spa), which is one of the largest and most modern water parks in Norway.
Pros:
- A lot of beaches and islands nearby
- A lot of entertainment and activities in the city
- A warm and sunny climate with mild winters and hot summers
Cons:
- Crowded and noisy during peak season
- Expensive compared to other places in Norway
- Not very close to the fjords or the mountains
What to do and see in Kristiansand
Some of the best day trips from Kristiansand are:
- Lindesnes: The southernmost point of mainland Norway and a historic lighthouse. Lindesnes offers a variety of attractions, such as the Lindesnes Lighthouse Museum, the Lindesnes Bunker Museum, the Lindesnes Havhotell, and the Lindesnes Fyr Restaurant.
- Mandal: A small town that is known as the town of wooden houses. Mandal offers a variety of attractions, such as the Mandal Church, the Mandal Museum, the Sjølingstad Woolen Mill, and the Furulunden Nature Park.
- Setesdal: A valley that is known for its traditional culture and folk art. Setesdal offers a variety of attractions, such as the Setesdal Museum, the Setesdal Mineral Park, the Setesdal Railway, and the Setesdal Folk Music Festival.
Where to stay in Norway, Kristiansand
Kristiansand has a moderate range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Kristiansand are:
- Clarion Hotel Ernst: A luxury hotel located in the city center near the cathedral. Clarion Hotel Ernst offers modern rooms with art deco decor, a rooftop terrace with a pool and a bar, a fitness center with a sauna, a conference center with meeting rooms, and two restaurants with different cuisines.
- Thon Hotel Kristiansand: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located near the harbor. Thon Hotel Kristiansand offers comfortable rooms with wooden floors, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a gym, a bike rental service, and a breakfast buffet with organic products.
- Roligheden Camping: A budget-friendly and family-friendly camping site located near the beach. Roligheden Camping offers cabins with private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a playground with trampolines, mini golf, and volleyball.
9. Fredrikstad – The Fortress Town
Fredrikstad is a small town in eastern Norway that is famous for its fortress. Fredrikstad was founded in 1567 by King Frederick II, and it was fortified with a star-shaped wall and moat.
If you want to explore some of the most well-preserved and impressive fortifications in Norway, then Fredrikstad is the place for you.
You can take a walk, a bike, or a ferry to explore the old town, which is located within the fortress. You can also visit the Fredrikstad Museum, which displays the history, culture, and art of the town.
You can also visit the Kongsten Fort, which is a bastion that overlooks the river.
Pros:
- A lot of history and heritage in the town
- A lot of entertainment and activities in the town
- A mild climate with moderate temperatures and rainfall
Cons:
- Small and quiet compared to other places in Norway
- Not very close to the fjords or the mountains
What to do and see in Fredrikstad
Some of the best day trips from Fredrikstad are:
- Hvaler: A group of islands that are known for their natural beauty and marine life. Hvaler offers a variety of attractions, such as the Hvaler Church, the Hvaler National Park, the Hvaler Marina, and the Hvaler Gjestgiveri.
- Sarpsborg: A historic town that is known as the birthplace of Norway. Sarpsborg offers a variety of attractions, such as the Sarpsborg Church, the Sarpsborg Museum, the Sarpsfossen Waterfall, and the Borgarsyssel Museum.
- Moss: A coastal town that is known for its industrial and artistic heritage. Moss offers a variety of attractions, such as the Moss Church, the Moss Museum, the Moss Glassworks, and the Galleri F15.
Where to stay in Norway, Fredrikstad
Fredrikstad has a limited range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Fredrikstad are:
- Gamlebyen Hotell: A luxury hotel located in the old town within the fortress. Gamlebyen Hotell offers elegant rooms with antique furniture, a terrace with a view, a bar with a fireplace, a spa with a sauna, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Quality Hotel Fredrikstad: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located near the harbor. Quality Hotel Fredrikstad offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a gym, a conference center with meeting rooms, and a breakfast buffet with organic products.
- Fredrikstad Motel & Camping: A budget-friendly and family-friendly motel and camping site located near the river. Fredrikstad Motel & Camping offers cabins with private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a playground with trampolines, mini golf, and volleyball.
10. Alta – The City of the Northern Lights
Alta is a small city in northern Norway that is known as the city of the northern lights. Alta is located in the Finnmark county, which is the northernmost and largest county in Norway.
If you want to see some of the most spectacular and frequent displays of the northern lights in Norway, then Alta is the place for you.
Alta is also a cultural and historical city that offers a lot of attractions and activities. You can visit the Alta Museum, which displays the largest collection of rock carvings in Scandinavia.
You can also visit the Northern Lights Cathedral, which is a modern and impressive church that resembles the northern lights.
You can also visit the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, which is a hotel made entirely of ice and snow.
Pros:
- A lot of opportunities to see the northern lights and other Arctic wildlife
- A lot of winter activities and adventures nearby
- A friendly and welcoming atmosphere with a lot of festivals, events, and nightlife
Cons:
- Cold and dark most of the year
- Expensive compared to other places in Norway.
Best Time to Visit Alta
Alta is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between September and March and If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, then visit between April and August.
What to do and see in Alta
Some of the best day trips from Alta are:
- Hammerfest: The northernmost town in the world and a historic fishing port. Hammerfest offers a variety of attractions, such as the Meridian Column, the Polar Bear Society, the Museum of Reconstruction, and the Hammerfest Church.
- Nordkapp: The northernmost point of mainland Europe and a popular tourist destination. Nordkapp offers a variety of attractions, such as the Nordkapp Hall, the Nordkapp Monument, the Nordkapp Museum, and the Nordkapp Panorama.
- Kautokeino: The largest municipality in Norway and a center of Sami culture. Kautokeino offers a variety of attractions, such as the Kautokeino Church, the Sami Culture Center, the Juhls’ Silver Gallery, and the Easter Festival.
Where to stay in Norway, Alta
Alta has a limited range of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes. Some of the best hotels in Alta are:
- Scandic Alta: A luxury hotel located in the city center near the cathedral. Scandic Alta offers modern rooms with city views, a terrace with a view, a fitness center with a sauna, a conference center with meeting rooms, and a restaurant with a local cuisine.
- Thon Hotel Alta: A cozy and eco-friendly hotel located near the museum. Thon Hotel Alta offers comfortable rooms with wooden floors, a lounge with free coffee and tea, a fitness center with a gym, a bike rental service, and a breakfast buffet with organic products.
- Alta River Camping: A budget-friendly and family-friendly camping site located near the river. Alta River Camping offers cabins with private bathrooms, a self-service check-in and check-out system, a communal kitchen with free coffee and tea, and a playground with trampolines, mini golf, and volleyball.
Conclusion
Norway is a wonderful country that offers a lot of diversity and beauty. Whether you want to see the northern lights, explore the fjords, hike the mountains, or enjoy the cities, Norway has something for everyone.
In this article, I have shared with you the 10 best places and hotels in Norway that you can choose from, depending on what you want to see and do in this amazing country.
I have also given you some tips and tricks on how to book your stay in Norway, and what to expect from each place and hotel.
I hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you did, please share it with your friends, family, or social media followers. Also, please leave me a comment below and let me know what you think about this article, or if you have any questions or suggestions.
FAQs
What are some of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway?
Some of the best places to see the northern lights in Norway are Tromsø, Alta, Svalbard, and Lofoten. These places are located in the northern part of Norway, within or near the Arctic Circle, and have dark and clear skies during the winter months. You can also enjoy other Arctic activities and attractions in these places, such as dog sledding, whale watching, glacier hiking, and ice hotels.
What are some of the best places to explore the fjords in Norway?
Some of the best places to explore the fjords in Norway are Bergen, Ă…lesund, Geiranger, and FlĂ¥m. These places are located in the western part of Norway, along or near the coast, and have access to some of the most spectacular and scenic fjords in the world, such as the Sognefjord, the Geirangerfjord, and the Nærøyfjord. You can also enjoy other outdoor activities and attractions in these places, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and cruising.
What are some of the best places to experience the culture and history of Norway?
Some of the best places to experience the culture and history of Norway are Oslo, Trondheim, Røros, and Stavanger. These places are located in different regions of Norway, and have a lot of museums, monuments, landmarks, and festivals that showcase the history, heritage, art, and music of Norway. You can also enjoy other urban activities and attractions in these places, such as shopping, dining, nightlife, and entertainment.
What are some of the best places to enjoy the nature and wildlife of Norway?
Some of the best places to enjoy the nature and wildlife of Norway are Lofoten, Runde, Nordkapp, and Jotunheimen. These places are located in remote and diverse areas of Norway, and have a lot of natural beauty and biodiversity that you can admire and explore. You can also enjoy other adventurous activities and attractions in these places, such as surfing, diving, golfing, climbing, and skiing.
What are some of the best places to stay in Norway for families with children?
Some of the best places to stay in Norway for families with children are Kristiansand, Hunderfossen, Hemsedal, and Beitostølen. These places are located in southern or central Norway, and have a lot of fun and family-friendly activities and attractions that you can enjoy with your kids. You can also find a lot of accommodation options that cater to families with children, such as cabins, cottages, and lodges.
What are some of the best places to stay in Norway for couples or honeymooners?
Some of the best places to stay in Norway for couples or honeymooners are Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø, and Lofoten. These places are located in different parts of Norway, and have a lot of romantic and cozy activities and attractions that you can enjoy with your partner. You can also find a lot of accommodation options that offer privacy, comfort, and luxury, such as boutique hotels, historic hotels, and igloo hotels.
What are some of the best places to stay in Norway for budget travelers or backpackers?
Some of the best places to stay in Norway for budget travelers or backpackers are Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Ă…lesund. These places are located in major cities or towns in Norway, and have a lot of cheap and convenient transportation options that you can use to get around. You can also find a lot of accommodation options that offer low prices, basic facilities, and social atmosphere, such as hostels, camping sites, and bed and breakfasts.