Tourist Attractions & Monuments Norway

Polar Tours offers tours all year round, departing from the Hurtigruten pier. Guided tours to the Saulstraumen Strait; the tour is done by bus and then by zodiac boat on the current. Also offers excursions to discover the Northern Lights in winter, it's the hunt for the Northern Lights. A hot drink will be offered to warm you up during the observation of the sky. Think of taking a blanket and why not a small mattress like an insulated camping mattress, it could be useful!

Oslo Hiking offers a wide range of half-day and full-day tours around Oslo. Hiking, snowshoeing, cycling with or without yoga, you can choose as a group or tailor-made. An experienced guide will take you on trails that are less traveled and, above all, on paths you might not have taken on your own, as some are located a little outside the city, such as the superb Marka forest or Maridalsvannet lake. A great opportunity for those who want to discover Oslo from a different angle.

Brim is based on a simple and revolutionary concept: the hybrid boat. On the company's vessels, you can explore the fjords around Tromsø in complete peace and quiet, an extraordinary way to discover what nature has to offer, while respecting it. Brim offers year-round excursions, in line with the seasons. In winter, travel through breathtaking landscapes in search of birds and whales, or try to spot the Northern Lights. In summer, expeditions are made to the Lofoten Islands from Svolvaer.

Oyvind is a photographer. He offers to take you into his world, looking for beautiful views. From a two-hour walk in Trondheim and its points of interest to a three-hour hunt for the Northern Lights (remember to bring warm clothes!), on the coast or in the forest, Oyvind adapts to your tastes and desires and will be able to share techniques and advice. A pleasant way to discover the region and the opportunity to come back with nice pictures.

Qualified, friendly guides offer a wide range of activities in all seasons, with packages to suit all levels: from simple hiking to sporting excursions (climbing, caving, safari, bungee jumping). Here are just a few examples: a day trip in a canoe, a day climbing excursion on the Hamarøyskaftet, a 6-hour hike to Hovdsundet, a sublime beach, a day glacier hike on the Svartisen, or a ride with sled dogs, either as a passenger or with your own sled.

It stretches along the water's edge like a long ship of stretched canvas and steel. The Vardø memorial was inaugurated in 2011 in memory of the victims of the witch hunt. One enters a long dark corridor. On the walls, the names and history of each of the victims are inscribed, lit by a small flame. Next door, the second part of Louise Bourgeois' Flammehuset"burns" silently: a flaming chair symbolizing the witch hunt is placed in a rounded hall designed by Peter Zumthor. A gripping visit. Not to be missed.

This bakery is a real institution in Å. It is not only a place that serves good cinnamon buns, it is also part of the history of the village. It serves paint baked in a stone oven dating from 1878. Built in 1844, it was rebuilt after the fire of 1888. At the time, guest workers for the fishing season were housed here. Today, the listed building opens its doors every summer for demonstrations!

Not in Stryn exactly. A very small museum which is however worth the detour (especially if you pass by there in fact!) mainly for the 13 minutes film on the glaciers which is proposed. Very informative, clear and with very well done models. It is also available in 8 languages, including French. Nice view on the lake next to the museum and the snowy peaks. A welcome cultural stop. A café offers tea and coffee, muffins, etc. Wifi. Souvenir shop.

The majestic Finnkirka cliff comes into view as you enter the Kjøllefjord. It's often compared to a cathedral, because it certainly looks like one. This imposing work of nature has withstood the test of time, cold and waves. For many years, it served as a sacred site for the Sami people. The lucky ones can discover it at night, when it is illuminated. Others can try their hand at climbing. One thing's for sure: from up there, the view is breathtaking. Don't forget your equipment.

This 3,560 km² national park was established in 1973 and covers the north-western part of the island of Spitsbergen. It is home to Svalbard reindeer (a smaller species than in Norway), walrus and numerous colonies of pelagic birds. The park also includes the island of Magdalenfjord. Virgohamna, on Danes Island, was the starting point for engineer S. A. Andrée's (failed) 1897 expedition to reach the North Pole in a hydrogen balloon.

In November 2008, the North Pole Expedition Museum opened its doors. It highlights the heroic efforts made by the men, pioneers of aviation, to reach the North Pole. A museum rich in documentation (films, photos, voice recordings and aviation equipment). You will also find a small souvenir shop with many items related to the Far North. A café welcomes you with hot drinks, so try the chai latte!

A small museum explaining the history of the Russian town, its geological appeal and, more generally, the discovery of Svalbard. Please note that the visit is in Russian only! Although the museum is located on Norwegian territory, it belongs to Russia, which built it in 1963. In fact, the place was sold to the Soviet Union by the Dutch in 1932, which is why it is still run by Russia today. The museum was founded to trace the history of the Pomors, the original Russian settlers who lived here and explored the area.

Mount Wallenberg (or Wallenbergfjellet) is a 375 metre summit. He owes his name to Knut Agathon Wallenberg, a Swedish politician who contributed to the expeditions in Svalbard.

In Hamsund, you can see the small peat-roofed farmhouse where the future great writer spent his childhood. In the family photo album, you can follow Knut Hamsun's life from cradle to grave. All his works are on display, along with numerous personal objects. The barn also houses an exhibition of images taken from the films inspired by his books. A must-see is the Hamsun Museum, a superb modern-architecture building in the midst of nature and rich in content. There's also a small café.

Trollstigen, the famous Norwegian troll road, offers a different view of the mountains at every turn. The rock formations that frame it are visible at every panorama. The highest point, Store Trolltind (the highest) is perched at 1,788 m above sea level. The most beautiful part of the road is called Ørnevegen (the eagle road). From here, you will have the most beautiful view of the region. The difference in altitude is so important in some places (more than 9%!) that it can give some cold sweats to the most experienced drivers and motorcyclists!

The Atlantic Highway (or Atlanterhavsveien) is a must for motorcyclists planning a trip to the northern countries. It's a very long road made up of bridges winding across the water, linking islands and small isolated towns. Don't hesitate to stop off at Mount Aksla for a breathtaking view of the fjords for miles around. But beware of the weather: this route is difficult in the rain, especially if it's windy!

A unique and professional company located in the center of Oslo. Viking Biking offers group and private guided bike and hiking tours on a variety of themes. Its guides are true experts on the city, but also passionate about nature. While the majority of tours take place in summer, Norwegians are not deterred by the cold: with a bike fitted with studded tires, you can visit the capital like a local even in winter! Discover Oslo and its history in a fun way.

Open all year round. The Norsk Tindesenter is an activity provider, a museum on the history of the development of climbing/mountaineering and a climbing gym. In summer, you can book a variety of guided nature activities such as hiking, via ferrata, climbing, kayaking and paddling to enjoy the extraordinary surroundings. On bad weather days, the climbing gym is an interesting alternative (bouldering and routes).

Hovedøya features the ruins of a Cistercian monastery as a reminder of its history. The monastery dates back to 1147, and was founded by English monks from Kirkstead Abbey. Very prosperous during the medieval period, it also belonged to the Norwegian army and was the scene of armed conflicts linked to the succession to the Danish-Norwegian throne. Later, it was used as a stone quarry to build the Akershus fortress. At the heart of the island of Hovedøya lies Klosterkroa. Set in the heart of nature, this timeless café is ideal for a break.

This museum complex brings together three sites: a manor house (Herregarden), built in 1673 for the viceroy of Denmark who had taken up residence in Larvik, it is a typically Norwegian wooden construction; the marine museum (Sjøfartsmuseum), which tells, among other things, about the construction of a polar ship and the maritime history of the area. There are also temporary exhibitions and activities. A section on geology and the ore industry is located in Verkensgarden, on the road to Stavern. A nice visit to make with the family if you pass by Larvik.

On the way back to Oslo, you can take the small road 156 on the right up the Nesodden peninsula to the church. 1.5 km to the north lies Røer, a well-hidden medieval farmhouse inhabited by the same family since 1600. This hilly, forest-covered peninsula was once so isolated that a medieval language survived here much longer than elsewhere. Today, the ferry between Nesodden and Oslo is very popular with tourists and bathers.

This is the farm of Knut Hamsun, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature following the publication of his book The Awakening of the Glebe. Like the main character in his book, he ran the farm for many years. Closed to the public, in an article published in 1910, the author accused tourism of "making the people servile, rotting the healthy life of the countryside and diverting the farmers from traditional values by making them forget their duty, which is to clear new land, replant the forest and colonize the virgin spaces of the Far North".

It is a very picturesque coastal village, which is located at the tip of the island of Karmoy. Approximately 3,500 people live here year-round. The ferry to the village of Skudeneshavn gives a taste of how to travel in the fjords. On the island of Karmøy, an alternative route leads past Mary's Needle, a curious obelisk with runic inscriptions. Further on, the port of Haugesund, which is revived by oil from the North Sea, hosts the Norwegian film festival. The wooden houses in Skudeneshavn are really beautiful.

This manor house dates from 1807. It was built for the then Minister of Trade Niels Aall. Apart from the fact that it is considered the finest example of empire architecture in Norway, it is also a place where important political decisions were made. Indeed, Aall was involved in the discussions that followed the signing of the 1814 constitution. The walk through the garden is pleasant and we recommend a guided tour, if possible with Elisabeth!

This is the road museum set up by the public body that manages roads in Norway, the NPRA. To know everything about bridges, vehicles that have crossed Norway, or the digging of tunnels. 3 buildings plus an open air museum for a total of about 5 000^{m2 of} visit! You can see for example machines which were really used for the construction of roads, the extraction of rocks. The museums are close to each other, you can go there by foot. Pets are allowed in the open air museum.

This medieval centre contains several buildings built as a set for the 1995 film Kristin Lavransdatter, based on the novel of the same name. A reproduction of a standing wooden church can be seen here. From the forges to the animal buildings, from the stable to the kitchen, this is a visit that will also appeal to the little ones. At the beginning of July, a folk dance festival is held here and other events are held from time to time, such as classical music concerts.

Three churches were built on this site. The one you can visit today dates from around 1130. It is a World Heritage Site because it is the oldest in Norway, and also one of the most decorated. You can see figures from the 12th century (the oldest in the country) representing a scene on Golgotha (Jesus on the Cross). Guided tours are available upon reservation. WC on the spot.

In a very short space of time, Oslo has become a modern and innovative city. The city is constantly changing, while retaining its authenticity. Modern buildings mingle with older ones, the city expands and new districts spring up, as in the case of Bjørvika. This area of central Oslo has undergone a spectacular transformation, from a former container port to a new, trendy and ultra-modern urban district. Bjørvika rose from the ground in just a few years and is now one of the city's most exclusive districts, as well as being a major cultural hub. The project is based on a desire for harmony between city and nature, which includes the creation of green spaces and beaches, such as Sørenga Sjøbad, in the heart of the city. In addition to the now famous Barcode, Bjørvika's development is far from over, with the opening of two huge cultural complexes in 2020 and 2021 respectively: the Deichman Library and the new Munch Museum.

The Barcode is part of a complex designed by Norwegian and Dutch architects. It consists of a row of narrow buildings, each different in shape and detail. This construction project has completely changed the profile of the city, which previously had very few tall buildings. In terms of architecture, Art Nouveau predominates. The buildings house major national and international companies, apartments, as well as restaurants, boutiques and galleries on the first floor.

In 1940, as a strategic air base, Bardufoss was the scene of a major battle between Norwegian and German forces. Operation Narvik was launched by the Norwegians in an attempt to regain control of the region. The Narvik 1940 Memorial Park was created to honor the Norwegian soldiers who took part in this conflict. It is located near the former Bardufoss airport airstrip, close to the Andselva River.

Departure from the Tourist Information Centre. This excursion by river boat (a beautiful piece of wood) to the Russian border near Boris Gleb focuses on discovering (in German and English) the history and culture of the region. Other excursions are also offered throughout the region, as far as Finland, along the Russian border, for example by snowmobile. Beautiful adventures that allow you to discover the fascinating landscapes of the Far North in all seasons while having fun.

This small local museum provides information on the culture of a fishing civilization, its evolution and the special construction techniques used to build the breakwaters of the Svartoksmoloen harbor jetty. Numerous attempts to secure the harbour had all ended in failure, until a French solution involving the use of concrete tetrapods finally proved reliable. To be combined with the other museums on the coast.

The museum is housed in the former stockfish warehouse of the whaling station Brotkorbbruket. Through several exhibits, the museum presents Gamvik and its surroundings from every angle. From prehistory to the history of the coastal fishing villages, through the Second World War. A visit that is good for the family and that allows you to learn a lot about the history of local fishing and in general. A rich and well documented museum.

This archipelago of about 100 islands and rocky islets is home to huge colonies of breeding birds, including one of the largest colonies of Atlantic Puffins in Northern Norway. These birds coexist with other species such as gannets, white-tailed eagles, razorbills, eiders, great cormorants, fulmars and parasitic jaegers. The breeding bird population on these islands is estimated at some 3 million individuals.

It is the northernmost point in Europe (71º 11' 08"), the true North Cape. But it is true that this point has a much less dramatic appearance! With its marked path of 18 km round trip starting from the E69 road, it is an excellent point of view to admire the cliffs of the North Cape, and avoid the crowd! However, Magerøya remains an island connected to the mainland by a road. The Nordkinn Cape near Mehamn is actually the northernmost point of the European continent.

At the entrance to the town, this modern museum has a permanent exhibition on the history of World War II and the mining company A/S Sydvaranger. The staging is impressive and very clear. There are many documents. The part dedicated to Lappish history is fascinating to understand this different history, ignoring borders. The network of museums in Norwegian Lapland provides a better understanding of the northern communities.

Hamningberg(Hámmanbirgi in Saami) is a small fishing hamlet exposed to the fury of the icy Arctic Ocean. It still had 250 inhabitants in 1900, was spared during the Second World War and was finally abandoned by its inhabitants in the 1960s. This village is located at the eastern end of Norway, at the very end of the Varanger Peninsula, on the edge of the Barents Sea. The fauna and flora are nevertheless quite rich and you can see birds, red foxes, and other species typical of these latitudes.

The city has several museums that trace the significant events in the history of the region. The different exhibitions are spread out over the buildings of the city. We find for example: the museum of the Russian Pomors, the memorial of Steilneset or the monument to the witches burned during the XVIIth century, the fortress of the city which dates from the beginning of the XVIIIth century, Tuomainengården a traditional kvène dwelling, and many others! For the more curious, there are many monuments to visit to learn about the rich and little-known history of the region.

The small wooden castle that houses the museum was built in the purest dragon style at the end of the 19th century by a wealthy timber merchant. It has been open to the public since 1986, where you can see paintings of trolls, huldra and other elves that populate Norwegian fairy tales. In the afternoon, tea is served in the castle's ancient rooms. It is a superb visit that will appeal to young and old alike. Events are organised throughout the year.

This glass factory, which dates back to 1762, is located at the beginning of the Randsfjord. 150 workers still work there according to ancestral methods and the current production is sold there. The museum exhibits an important collection of old glass. In the main building there are also temporary exhibitions. The barn houses the Kokkestua restaurant and a shop selling homemade sweets. You can have a picnic on the terrace in front of the restaurant. There are games for children.

Inaugurated in 1988, this museum of Northern Norwegian art is dedicated to exhibiting works related to the culture of the Far North. These include romantic landscapes by Dahl, Tidemand and Gude and, of course, seascapes by Peder Balke. It also exhibits international artists on a variety of themes, from the political to the purely artistic, from social to ideological. The museum has a café and a store dedicated to Saami art.

This museum traces the history of this place which, during the Second World War, was the main maritime base for German soldiers, where the warships Tirpitz and Scharnhorst were stationed. Exhibition dedicated to these ships, many of which are illustrated with photographs. A museum in a beautiful location, rich in exhibits. It is an almost obligatory stop for lovers of local history and for the curious who wish to know more about the significant events that took place in the region during the Second World War.

According to Unesco's description, the Struve Arc stretches from Hammerfest to the Black Sea, crossing 10 countries over a distance of 2,820 km. The project was originally carried out by Friedrich Georg Wilhelm, and represents the first accurate measurement of a long meridian segment, helping to define and measure the exact size and shape of the Earth, and playing a key role in the development of Earth sciences and accurate topographical maps.

For more information, see the UNESCO website.

Isbjørnklubben, or literally the polar bear club, is dedicated to the preservation of history and culture at Hammerfest, including Arctic fishing, hunting and polar expeditions. You will learn how the people of the region have adapted to the changes the town has faced over the course of its history. You can also become a member of this world-famous club and receive the polar bear badge as a souvenir!

Exhibition devoted to post-war reconstruction, a time when everything had to be rebuilt after the almost total destruction of cities. We learn about the evacuation and living conditions in the region during the Second World War. This museum gives an idea of what life was like for refugees and people who had to rebuild their homes after the dramatic and forced evacuation of the population during the Second World War. Authentic rooms are displayed.

Opened in 1992, this new building in the shape of a grand piano, made of natural stone, metal and blonde wood, houses a large collection of Norwegian paintings from the period 1830-1930. There are important works from the Romantic period, represented by landscapes by Johan Christian Dahl, peasant interiors by Adolph Tidemand, and bucolic scenes by Hans Gude. Don't miss the few Munches, as well as Christian Skredsvig'sIdyll , the national pride.

A dive into the history of the Olympic Games, with many objects offered by the athletes. It's a quick tour, but it's still interesting and not to be missed! There are also temporary exhibitions and activities for children (see the program on the web or by phone). You can find nice things in the museum shop, like the little mirrors with the logo of the 94 Olympics! And if you are hungry, go to the café!

The main attraction is a large 14 m troll, sitting on the cave in which the tales and legends of Norway are presented. Filmed versions of the tales are shown continuously in the cinema. In the Trollsalen restaurant, these giants from the Norwegian imagination support the ceiling like a monstrous Atlas. More real and close to our modern concerns, the model of a drilling platform shows how oil is extracted in the North Sea.

This house once belonged to Sigrid Undset, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1928. She moved to Lillehammer in 1919. Among the estate's various buildings are two old houses from the large farm in the Gudbrandsdal valley, from which the author drew inspiration for her great medieval saga Kristin Lavransdatter (Editions Stock, 1986). One of the houses houses a collection of paintings by Sigrid Undset's husband, A. C. Svarstad.

It is a building that houses the only state-sponsored Sami theater. The research center of the Sami Nordic Institute is also located here. The building is to be admired for its original architecture, which was awarded the Northern Norway Prize in 1987. It is one of the first buildings to be designed to fit in with Saami culture and climate conditions. There is also a library, a café and a cinema.

The exhibits in this small eco-museum give an insight into the way of life of the Kautokeino people, past and present. The museum includes a small same farm, with a reindeer corral. Traditional architecture is on display. An exhibition tells us about the River Saami, who live from freshwater fishing and hunting. A pleasant place to linger and discover the local culture. In summer, take advantage of the sale of typical dishes to eat in or take away. You'll also find a souvenir store.