Norway Things To Do

This superb museum, dedicated to Norway’s most famous artist, holds the largest collection of Munch’s work; the highlight is The Scream, returned to the museum in 2007 after a much-publicized theft.

Fans of Scandinavian design and boat-lovers alike will not want to miss Oslo’s most fascinating attraction, an exhibit of three remarkably well-preserved Viking ships that were found in 9th-century burial grounds near Oslo Fjord.

A trip back in time and a wonderful place to spend a day, this open-air folk museum features some 156 historic Norwegian buildings, from grand old manor houses to ramshackle wooden grocery stores. Take a picnic lunch.

Home to the Nobel Peace Prize, there’s an impressive space dedicated to Peace Prize Winners, where 96 flat screens, displaying the portraits and biographies of the Nobel laureates, rise like flowers from a garden.

A must for sports fans, Oslo’s oldest ski jump dates to 1892. Just 25 minutes from the city centre, it offers spectacular views of Oslo. There’s a very realistic ski jump simulator beneath the actual jump and a ski museum with intriguing exhibits, including a wooden ski dating to 600AD!

One of Oslo’s (and Norway’s) most popular sights, this splendid park features over 200 sculptures carved from stone, bronze, and cast iron by the revered Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland (1869-1943), who also designed the park.

Join in the biggest party in town as the whole population gathers near Karl Johan Gate, Oslo, every May 17 to celebrate the country’s constitution. Many wear traditional costumes (bunad) and all cheer enthusiastically as a huge parade marches to the palace, where the Royal Family waves to the crowd from a balcony.

Norway is a hikers’ paradise, with beautiful mountain scenery, well-maintained trails, and welcoming huts for overnight camping. Jotunheimen is home to Galdhøpiggen, Norway’s highest peak (8,100 feet), and you’ll find many popular walks in the area, including Besseggen. Glacier excursions can also be organized here.

Voted best new trip for 2008 by National Geographic Adventure, this four-day safari highlights the best of Norway’s northern wilderness and includes dog-sledding, northern lights hunting, a snowmobile ride, and a swim in the Arctic Ocean (in a survival suit) to catch king crabs – giants that can reach 6.5 feet in size and weigh up to 33 pounds.

The largest of its kind in the Nordic countries, the Bergen International Festival comprises over 150 events taking place over two weeks in late May and early June. The festival showcases a mix of contemporary and classical art forms, including music, literature, theater, dance, opera, and visual arts, and attracts many local and international artists.