Tourist Attractions & Monuments Norway

It is an 18th and 19th century manor house surrounded by two gardens, one baroque, the other English. The interiors and furniture have been preserved in their original state. The manor and its tour are managed by the Halden Historical Collections Association(Halden Historiske Samlinger). A visit rich in history. There is a small shop and above all a great café next door where you can take a break and enjoy a savoury dish or simply a pastry.

In a green site, this classic park offers attractions, such as Russian mountains and roundabouts, as well as cafeterias, kiosks and shops.

The old foundries at Baerums Verk were established in 1610 by order of the Danish King Christian IV, when Norway was a mere Danish province. Restored in 1987, the inn (where the restaurant is located) is today under the protection of the Historic Monuments, as well as the museum including the large ovens, the workshops, the workers' houses and the bakery. An interesting visit which may be worth the detour if you are in the area.

This museum, unique in Europe, presents all the animals living in the Arctic. One can admire specimens of whales from Antarctica and the Arctic, including a life-size model of a very impressive blue whale. It also shows the techniques used for whaling, from the rudimentary weapons of the Sami to the formidable guns of modern times. In addition, the museum has several boats, including the Southern Actor, a whaler from the 1950s, and a copy of the drakkar "Gaia", which still sails every day.

Exhibiting interesting contemporary art paintings. The museum is housed in the former Naval University, a brick building constructed between 1918 and 1921 by architects Bjerke & Eliassen, in collaboration with sculptor Wilhelm Rasmussen. Year-round activities for young and old. Guided tours for babies, for example! A small souvenir store offers fun things to take home. Great postcards!

This museum houses various exhibitions on archaeology, traditional fishing, whaling and includes an open air museum composed of 13 buildings. Activities proposed for children all year long (see on their website), temporary exhibitions sometimes, guided tours including in English, in short, a museum that knows how to propose nice things for the happiness of the visitors! Also a small café (open only in summer) that offers small snacks. A souvenir shop that sells jewellery, books and costumes.

Beautifully located on the tip of Høvikodden, a great sculpture of Henry Moore in the park. This contemporary art centre was founded by the world's first figure skater, Sonja Henie. There are large temporary exhibitions of international stature, as well as all the trophies it has earned. Pirouetten catalogues and coffee shop with terrace and view of the fjord.

5 km from Karasjok is a nature park with barbecues, a rain shelter, toilets and a children's playground. Of course, you should check the weather conditions (or just look at the sky!) before venturing into a nature area, even if this one is equipped and is really not far from Karasjok. Not very well signposted but the tourist office will be able to explain the route. Bring something to light the barbecue!

Library specialized in the Saami universe. A unique collection of Saami literature in several languages.

At 6 km, this lighthouse is a landmark on the steep coast overlooking the Arctic Ocean. It is one of the most mythical lighthouses on the entire coast. Since its automation in 1994, it also serves as an accommodation for visiting groups. The view is breathtaking and it is hard to imagine a better place to be if you are looking to get away from the crowds and reconnect with nature. This lighthouse has been classified as cultural heritage since 1998. It used to run on kerosene around 1900 and then suffered the hazards of history, particularly the Second World War.

Stabbursdalen is a valley on the western shore of Porsangerfjord. The pine trees lining the shoreline are very old, some as old as 500 years. The valley narrows inland to form a narrow gorge, before widening again into gentle hills where bare rock outcrops. The landscape, with its extensive moraine deposits, is reminiscent of the Ice Age. The Stabburselva River, which irrigates the park, is a good salmon river.

Nordic Safari offers you the possibility to discover the region by sleigh or boat. A beautiful hike along the coast to the Nordkyn Cape, which is home to splendid and rare birds, with a view of the Northern Cape, the northernmost cape in Europe, is also proposed to you! Possibility of salmon fishing or partridge hunting. Information from the commune of Gamvik or the commune of Mehamn. The establishment also offers youth hostel, camping and rorbuer rentals.

The northernmost lighthouse in the world, located at the same latitude as Alaska. Visits are organized in the summer. It can be reached by a trail from Gamvik (5 km). The lighthouse is located in the middle of the natural park. The road that winds through the park was built in 1930. It leads to Varnesovnen, a cave used during the evacuations in the autumn of 1944. The lighthouse is now a lodge where you can stay between June and August every summer. A great opportunity for lovers of the great outdoors, hiking or fishing!

"Hornet is a rocky, horn-shaped promontory on the northeastern side of the North Cape cliff, below and beside the sea. In pre-Christian times, Hornet was a sacred place for the Sámi people of Magerøya, who regarded it as the domain of the gods. "Hornet can only be seen from a distance. In Viking times, the area was subjected to Viking taxation and sometimes sacked. The chief of Håløy traded with the Sami as far as the White Sea in Russia. But Norwegian settlement of Finnmark probably did not begin until the 16th century. The abundance of fish attracted fishermen from northern Europe. To secure territory, the fortress of Vardø and several fortified churches were built. Hornvika, or Horn Bay, was the place where tourist boats docked before 1956 and the construction of the road to Nordkapp.

Finnmark was booming until the end of the 17th century, when fishing suffered a serious crisis. Several sites along the coast were abandoned by the Norwegians. The 18th and 19th centuries saw an influx of immigrants from northern Finland and Sweden, as well as farmers from southern Norway. This led to many conflicts with the Saami who had occupied the land for centuries. A contemporary novel by a Saami author, Alio Gaup, The Magic Drum, was translated into French by Editions du Rocher in 1992. A place full of history that is worth a visit if you pass by.

This geological formation is a feast for the eyes; it's a portal-like fault several metres wide in a rocky promontory. The midnight sun shines through this "portal" between midnight and 2 a.m., and it's quite impressive. From here, the Hornet is clearly visible in the distance. The walk to Kirkeporten is also very pleasant: 2.5 kilometers from the Kikeporten campsite or the Nordkapp Turisthotell. Allow 1 hour in all.

Hornøya Island is a jewel, a must for nature and bird lovers. For the thousands of birds that reside here, the island is a paradise. On the island the rules are strict and have to be followed to the letter, because here there is no joke with the preservation of the fauna and flora. We stay on the marked trails only, we do not pollute and we do not disturb the animals under any circumstances. It is possible to stay on the island.

Kirkenes is a town in northern Norway, known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This local travel agency offers a variety of exciting activities, such as king crab safaris, minibus tours with a local guide, Northern Lights tours, river boat safaris, dog sled rides and much more. The Booking Kirkenes team is made up of local residents who will be delighted to share their knowledge of the region with you. What's more, the agency is ecologically certified and committed to preserving the environment. By booking with them, you are supporting a local business and helping to protect nature. Don't hesitate to contact Booking Kirkenes to organize your Arctic adventure in Kirkenes.

This cave dug into the rock is located under one of the city's hills and sheltered the civilians who took refuge there during the German bombardments of the Second World War. The 25-minute tour focuses on the history of Kirkenes during this painful time, with the presentation of a film and photos. A must-see place that is part of the network of museums throughout Northern Norway. A good way to imagine the daily life of the population in these times of war, but also the reconstruction that followed.

The Kvens were Finnish emigrants to Ruija, "the Land of the Sea", settling there as farmers, miners and fishermen. The entire Varanger region still bears the imprint of their culture. Through the various elements of their habitat, the Ruija Museum shows the vestiges of this multicultural region, such as the Tuomainen farm, a typical Kvens farm from 1840; the Esbensen estate; the Kjeldsen fishing hamlet near a bird-nesting rock; and the Vadsøya park with its arctic flora and fauna.

Sheltered in a large glass building is the MS Finnmarkent, the former home of the region's coastal shipping company. At the initiative of a former captain, Sten Magne Engen, this historic ship dating from 1956 has been converted into a museum, enabling visitors to discover the company's history through documents and archive images, as well as tours of completely restored rooms (engine room, bridge, saloon).

The Adolf Guns are the greatest guns in the world. They were built by the German occupiers during the Second World War and installed in the stronghold of Trondenes. Today, four are still in place but only one is fully preserved and maintained (in working order). These are the largest naval guns placed ashore during the Second World War in the whole of Europe. They formed Hitler's most powerful battery on his Atlantic Wall. Remembrance of a heavy and traumatic period for northern Norway as well.

The historic centre of Trondenes is a museum of regional history covering a vast period, from the Stone Age to the present day. An important part of the exhibitions are devoted to the Vikings and the Middle Ages. The museum is very interactive. It is situated in an absolutely beautiful setting by the water, 3 kilometres from the centre of Harstad. The place is ideal for a break after the visit; there is a restaurant, a café and a souvenir shop.

Norway's most famous explorer was born in Tomta, on the banks of the river that runs through Fredrikstad. Roald Amundsen, who mapped out the Northwest Route, i.e. the route over the American continent, was also the first to reach the South Pole. He died trying to rescue another explorer, Nobile, trapped in the Arctic ice. Here you can read about his life and the fascinating number of records and discoveries Amundsen made.

Tomba Emanuele is the name that Emanuel Vigeland, brother of the sculptor Gustav, gave to the building. He had decided to build a museum and then wanted to make it his mausoleum. When he died, the windows were walled up and his ashes were placed inside. The vaulted room without light that contains the Vita fresco is amazing. No daylight filters through this remarkable odyssey of existence, from birth to death, where erotic scenes and naked bodies follow one another to compose a piece that shocked contemporaries. This work of a lifetime, which covers more than 800 square meters, is impressive.

Established in 2004 in a former transformer station, the DOGA Museum is entirely dedicated to design and architecture. Debates, conferences, workshops, the program is vast. Each room is designed in a different style, where the modern Scandinavian touch can be recognized. Located on the river bank, next to the church, the building houses a café and a restaurant (Funky Fresh Food, organic & vegan!), perfect for taking the time to appreciate the banks of the Akerselva.

The Dominican monastery was built in 1216 in stone, but brick was the predominant material at the time of its renovation in 1300, and its aesthetics were subsequently modified. After the Reformation in 1537, the east wing of the structure became the residence of the Lutheran pastor in charge of the monastery. There is unfortunately not much to see, but these are among the few ruins of the original Oslo, before the new capital Kristiania moved in around the marina. A few meters further on, two other ruin sites are worth a walk.

This ancient residence was built in the 1720s on the remains of the so-called Bishop Castle (Bispeborgen), which dated back to the ^13th century. Today, one of the halls (Medieval Hall) still belongs to the old structure, but the rest of the building is Baroque. The mansion is located in the heart of the medieval park, which includes the Church of St. Clement. Guided tours are free. Coffee shop on site.

The cathedral was first built in 1100. In 1130, King Sigurd the Crusader was buried here. Built in Romanesque style as a basilica, it had two rows of columns, a transept and a central tower. It was enlarged in 1260 in a Gothic style and in 1639 it was replaced as a cathedral by the Church of the Holy Trinity. The building soon fell into disrepair and its stones were used for other buildings, including the Akershus fortress. Only the foundations of the cathedral remain visible.

A museum that deals with the history of the city, but also temporary art exhibitions according to the seasons. Free Internet connection throughout the museum. Fun activities are offered, such as making a miniature reproduction of the city out of cardamom and icing sugar shortbread in winter (for the snow!). It's also an opportunity for a nice walk through the old town and to take shelter in case of rain!

The manor house, built in 1804 in the style of Louis XIV, belonged to the Arbo family for a long time, and it was here that the painter Peter Nikolai Arbo grew up. It has been carefully renovated several times, and today you can still admire the original furniture inside and enjoy the magnificent 18th century park outside. A pleasant visit that children will also appreciate, as they will probably have a great time playing in the gardens.

This beautiful white building houses many rare objects and crafts: furniture, church relics, folk art and baroque silverware. The museum's café is located here, where you can enjoy good pastries, salads, hot soup or a sandwich with shrimp. You can spend a good time sitting comfortably inside or on the terrace in the summer. This building follows the museum's opening hours. Free internet connection.

An interesting attraction for young and old alike as it is the only saltwater aquarium in the region. The underwater life of the Oslo Fjord is explained in detail and well illustrated. Fun activities are also offered for the little ones. You can even organise a birthday party! Their mascot is a very old wolffish named Hugo. He is almost scary to look at, but nature is beautiful and fascinating!

This museum of children's art offers a kaleidoscope of artistic works seen through the prism of children's eyes. The works come from all over the world (180 countries are represented!) and provide an opportunity to explore the sensibilities, perspectives and opinions of these seldom-seen beings. Internships and workshops are also available for children. Temporary and permanent exhibitions. A wonderful discovery.

For film lovers, it's THE Norwegian film museum, and also a cultural center for the country's cinematography. there are 5 screenings a week, all of which can be viewed on the website, plus a children's room. This is where you can buy DVDs of films not available in France. Themed festivals are organized on a regular basis, and you can find out more on their website or by phoning them directly.

Departing from Oslo or Bergen, embark on a trip to Norway's most beautiful fjords, the Geirangerfjord and the Naerøyfjord, both listed as Unesco World Heritage sites. You will be able to discover many treasures of this beautiful country. This unique trip is possible from Oslo, Bergen or Alesund. Day tours or multi-day tours according to your wishes and budget. Several itineraries are possible. Travelling with the company (FjordTours) allows you to discover a maximum of beautiful places without worrying about the organization.

Do you want to get some fresh air, walk in nature without going far from the capital? Do you like the idea of getting a great view of Oslo, the fjord and the surrounding mountains? Would you like to find a quiet place to have a drink/lunch/waffle/dinner with a great view (Grefsenkollen Restaurant!)? Or you just want to find a nice place to go for a jog? Then Grefsen is a small, unspoiled area of Oslo (off the beaten track but accessible) that is probably for you!

Visit Bodø is the official guide for the city and its region. It contains all information about the city and useful for the realization of a stay: accommodation, catering, advice and recommendations. The site is updated every day by a team of professionals passionate about the city and what it has to offer! Very useful.

You can't miss it during a stay in Lofoten. Located on the road that leads to Reine from Leknes, Ramberg beach is one of the most beautiful of the islands but also one of the most popular. Very popular for a stroll during the midnight sun. White sand, cove surrounded by mountains, turquoise water..., you would think you are in the Caribbean islands (without the palm trees and the heat!) or in New Zealand (without the giant ferns!). A superb place where it is good to stay several hours. Think of your hiking shoes to explore the area!

Less known than its big sisters, Haukland or Uttakleiv, the beach of Storsandes is a real little paradise. The place is ideal to admire the aurora borealis because there is no light pollution. If you are lucky enough to have a good goose down sleeping bag and a mattress, don't hesitate to settle down and fall asleep to the sound of nature and the stars. The beach is very large and you can see the mountains in the distance. Don't forget the thermos of hot water, it can be useful, even on a beautiful summer night!

A very beautiful gallery that pays tribute to one of the masters of the history of art in Norway, Kaare Espolin Johnson (1907-1994) and a great lover of the Lofoten Islands. A nice way to learn more about the maritime culture in the country. Exhibition and sale of some works. Located 10 minutes from Svolvaer and just outside Kabelvåg, the Espolin Gallery is connected to two other museums, the Lofoten Museum and the Lofoten Aquarium. So you can buy a combined ticket for all 3 museums, simple and convenient!

The hike takes about an hour, starting from Vinstad. Bunes is one of the most beautiful coves in all of Lofoten, with its white sandy beach and completely turquoise water and welcoming cliffs on both sides. The place is rather well kept from the crowds as it is a bit more difficult to get to (you can't get there by road). Be sure to check the ferry schedule before you leave so you don't get caught. It is possible to camp there with a good sleeping bag.

Allow 2 to 4 hours for the hike. Beautiful views from the summit. We recommend dry weather, however, as some sections can be quite slippery. Don't hesitate to stop by the tourist office to pick up hiking maps and let them know when you'll be leaving. Do as the locals do, and take a bar of Kvikk Lunsj with you - it's available everywhere! Check the weather forecast before you set off. Birch forest, small lakes, a few streams here and there. You can also go with a guide.

Count on two to three hours of hiking to get to the two summits. It is best to hike on a clear day, as the 360° view will be all the more impressive. It is the most accessible hike from Svoalver. It is also a good warm-up before the southern hikes. All public. And remember, in the mountains, (even if it is an easy hike) take a windbreaker and warm clothes, warn of your departure, check the weather, take a small snack, and above all, do not be ashamed to turn back if necessary!

The Aquarium will teach you more about the Atlantic Skrei cod which migrates every year from the Barents Sea to the Lofoten. Cod has been the foundation of the Lofoten fishery for centuries. We will of course know more about the arctic fauna (crustaceans and other marine animals of the Lofoten). Don't miss the feeding of seals and otters, as well as the exhibition on the art of coexistence, highlighting the importance of aquaculture, fishing and oil activities in Norway, on marine animals. Souvenir shop and coffee shop.

Only 15 minutes from the centre, the climb to the Salen mountain, which overlooks the town, is a must during a visit to Hammerfest. At the top, a viewpoint has been set up. From there, the view of the islands of Håja, Hjelmen and Saroya opposite is extraordinary. Electric bikes can be rented at the office for NOK 360 per hour. Ideal to ensure the climb and continue the walk to the next summit. Very easy walk if you are used to walking. Remember to take binoculars to observe the islands in the distance!

Rønvikfjellet offers the best view of the city and its surroundings and the best place to watch the midnight sun. There is a daily bus service from the city centre (information at the Tourist Office). An easy and accessible walk for everyone. Small paths start here and there and it is quite difficult to get lost because you can easily find your way by looking up. Small streams, pretty stones and a breathtaking view! We really enjoyed this little hike for the whole family.

Welcome to the national museum dedicated to pop/rock music. This ultra-modern museum was opened in 2010. Built on several floors, the Rockheim is both educational and interactive. You can learn about the history of music in Norway, the birth of pop music in the country and around the world. The Rockheim invites its visitors to be part of the visit. There is also a gallery that hosts many exhibitions throughout the year, and a media library with a very nice documentation. Superb view from the^5th floor.

Here is a colorful street that gives you a feeling of well-being. Don't miss the most beautiful street in Stavanger. Øvre Holmegate is probably a street like any other, with the nice difference that all the houses are painted in different colors. Some people compare it with Notting Hill in London and others say that it is the most colorful street in the whole country! Excellent meeting place to come and have a drink with friends, the street is full of beautiful addresses, by the fire in winter and nice terraces in summer!

The Nuart Street Art Walking Tour will take you through Nuart's impressive 20-year street art history and the evolution of Stavanger into one of the world's most important destinations for street art. The festival and the guided tours around the city allow you to learn more about the roots of the movement, from graffiti, to stencil art, to the murals that have inspired artists around the world! Of course, you can do the tour by yourself by following the map.

Albmi Adventures is the story of a human project. An ecological, responsible and unique project set up by a young couple of Sami culture, André and Outi. They will take you to the untouched lands of northern Norway. They have chosen Bodø as their base camp; Bodø, ideally located above the Arctic Circle, between sea and mountains, guarantees a dive in the heart of this still well preserved Lapland nature. On the program: northern lights, sunset hikes, multi-day treks, kayaks, climbing...