With its magnificent mountain scenery, impressive waterfalls, shaded forests, architectural masterpieces and delightful restaurants it’s easy to see why Norway has become such a tourist hotspot over the last few years. Below we highlight three cities not to miss on a visit to Norway.
Oslo
Known as Christiania until 1925, this seafaring city, which is Norway’s capital, showcases the Norwegian appetite for exploration and adventure. The stone medieval Akershus Castle and Fortress, which overlook the harbour, date back to 1299 and have withstood many sieges. Oslo’s Royal Palace elegantly dominates the view west along Karl Johans Gate past the Parliament and has beautiful state rooms. The city is also a shopper’s paradise with impressive department stores, charming boutiques and popular flea markets.
Bergen
Norway’s second largest city has long attracted travellers to its unique harbour setting and ancient medieval streets. Small wooden houses lie higgledy-piggledy, cobblestoned stepways climb steeply and a love of flowers can clearly be seen. It is no surprise that Bergen was named Norway’s cultural capital in 2000 as there are numerous galleries, museums and theatres offering a wealth of opportunities to discover something of Bergen’s rich and refined heritage.
Stavanger
This 900 year old city was named the ‘European Capital of Culture’ for 2008 (along with Liverpool). Stavanger boasts 26 museums and galleries, along with a Gothic cathedral, pristine waters, pretty fisherman’s cottages and a lovely mild climate. Interestingly, before Stavanger became Norway’s oil and gas capital, it was known for its exports of sardines in oil.
If you are considering a holiday in Norway or any part of Scandinavia this year why not check out our full selection of Scandinavian tours on our website.
Images courtesy of Moyan_Brenn and Matthias Ripp