5 Best City Breaks in Norway for a Unique Holiday

Norway is a country in the Scandinavian peninsula in northern Europe. Norway is an ideal destination for an unmatched holiday with magnificent mountains, magical natural phenomena, stunning towns, and plenty of things to do. 

This article lists five of the best city breaks in Norway, each offering unique attractions and adventurous activities. Let’s explore them!

1. Oslo

Norway’s capital, Oslo, is located on its southern coast and is renowned for its green spaces and cultural attractions. Thanks to its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining options, it offers plenty of entertainment options even after dusk.

Oslo strikes the ideal balance between city life and connection with nature, making it ideal for a relaxing yet possibly adventurous city holiday. It is an excellent starting point for a getaway into the Norwegian countryside.

Oslo is also a great starting place for a self-drive journey, with many well-liked train excursions. Due to its small size, the city is best explored on foot.

Oslo is a city that boasts many cultural attractions. The majestic harbour-side Opera House stands out among them. It overlooks the freezing sea waves from an angle, with banked white granite and marble windows. 

Many other historical attractions manifest Norway’s heritage and rich culture. The outstanding National Gallery, the 19th-century Royal Palace, the Fram Museum, and the world’s best-preserved Viking Ship are just a few of them. 

2. Bergen

Bergen is the second-largest Norwegian city, situated on Norway’s west coast. It is often called the heart of the fjords because it is the entry point to some of the world’s best-known fjords. 

Bergen is the perfect fusion of nature, culture, and vibrant urban life all year round. It combines a small-town atmosphere with a big-city vibe. No wonder it has been classified as a European City of Culture and a UNESCO World Heritage City.

The seven magnificent mountains surrounding Bergen give it its little-town atmosphere. Each offers fantastic hiking opportunities and a fantastic city view. 

If you want incredible panoramic views and unrivalled shots, we recommend taking the funicular to Floyen. This breathtaking scenery will last a lifetime in your memory. 

One of the top attractions in Bergen is the Bryggen wharf, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lovely row of colourful wooden houses facing the harbour is a sight to behold. In addition to the scenery, these stunning houses and the narrow alleys between them host plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and gift shops. 

3. Stavanger

Stavanger is a lovely harbour city and a cultural centre in Norway, famous for its breathtaking natural charm and rich history. It is one of the best city breaks in Norway, especially for outdoors fans. 

Stavanger offers various adventure activities, including sailing, surfing, and hiking. Above all, there is one of Norway’s most famous mountain treks, Preikestolen. Hiking this internationally renowned cliff, towering 604 metres above the Lysefjord, is a thrilling adventure, and you can enjoy the panoramic view from above.

For sightseeing, take a tour of the Old Town and the Cathedral. We recommend taking a street art tour to see some fantastic artwork while exploring the city. If you are a music fan, go to the Stavanger Concert Hall and spend quality time. 

To complete your trip with a rewarding meal, visit some of the city’s top restaurants. Choose between international and local cuisine options and enjoy a mouthwatering taste. 

Adding to its beautiful attractions, Stavanger boasts some exciting hikes, stunning lakes, hidden caves, and gorgeous beaches.

4. Tromso

One of the best city breaks in Norway is Tromso, a vibrant city located amid a group of islands spread 400 kilometres into the Arctic Circle off the northern coast of Norway. If you would love to see the lights of the north or go whale watching, then Tromso is your ideal Norwegian destination.

Tromso promises its visitors a great experience of witnessing some incredible natural phenomena. First, you can catch the sight of the polar night, which lasts for over 24 hours and can be seen between November and January. 

Another magical phenomenon to witness in Tromso is the northern lights. Between September and April, the city offers the most beautiful view of the swirling northern lights, a scene to be kept in memory for a lifetime. 

Another spectacular natural phenomenon in Tromso occurs from 18 May to 25 July: the midnight sun. During this event, the city witnesses continuous daylight, and the sun does not set for around two months.

Besides these unique experiences, there are many fun activities to enjoy in Tromso all year round. You can enjoy superb skiing in the winter and exciting hiking in the summer. One of the most fantastic activities to do in Tromso is going on a husky or reindeer sledging adventure. We guarantee that it will be one of the most memorable trips you will have.

5. Trondheim 

Trondheim is a stunning port city in central Norway on the Trondheim Fjord. It is often known as Norway’s capital of technology or knowledge, partly due to having the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the country’s largest university, making Trondheim a pioneer in innovation.

The “Old Bridge,” a stunning red bridge with a fantastic view over pretty buildings on the river bank, serves as the entrance to the adorable old town. It is a scenic spot for taking photos. 

The old town itself is a beautiful place with a genuinely delightful atmosphere. One must lose yourself in the cobblestone streets and buy souvenirs from the lovely shops. Its wide roads also connect to excellent cafes, restaurants, and outstanding museums.

You can tour to explore some ancient buildings, including the renowned Nidaros Cathedral, a remarkable work of architecture dating back to the 11th century and featuring enormous statues of Norwegian kings and biblical figures. If you’re a history buff, you will also love the Archbishop’s Palace, located south of the Nidaros Cathedral, with several outstanding museums.

If you are fond of music, you will likely love to visit the well-known Ringve Museum, Norway’s National Museum of Music and Musical Instruments. If your enthusiasm takes you further, check out Rockheim, another museum displaying Norwegian rock and pop music from the 1950s to now.

Final Thoughts

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. Norway has much more to offer, and you will never get bored there.

Go on one of the best city breaks in Norway to enjoy this gorgeous country’s magnificent scenery, vibrant culture, and legendary hospitality. Choose the destination you love the most (or maybe all of them), book your trip, and enjoy the experience to the fullest!