Oh for Fjords Sake – The Best Summer Itinerary for 14 days in Norway

Land at Oslo Gardemoen Airport and take the Flytoget (airport train) into the City Center! With trains leaving regularly and the station being directly accessible from inside the terminal, it couldn’t be much easier. Check into The Thief Hotel and get off your feet after a long flight. The Thief hotel is located in the Tjuvholmen District near the harbor, and the hotel takes its namesake from the district, which translates to Thief Island (Why Thief Island? Ask me!). A unique property with a distinct modern Scandinavian design and a focus on contemporary modern art.

If you have the appetite for dinner, check out Døgnvill Burger Restaurant for an incredible burger nearby. And don’t sleep on the sweet potato fries, yum!

Alternatively, The Sommerro Hotel is another fantastic choice to base yourself while in Oslo and is also very centrally located!

Start your day off in true Norwegian Fashion with sauna and a swim. What better way to shake off the jet lag than to take a dip into the North Sea! This is honestly one of my favorite things to do, both summer and winter. Yes, even in the winter. There is a floating sauna located only a two-minute walk from the hotel called Mad Goats Tjuvholmen. My recommendation would be to book a morning time slot.

Afterward, stroll back to your hotel and get ready for the day. But before heading out, make sure to take advantage of the breakfast at the hotel, after all, it is an included perk since you booked your trip with me!

After breakfast, take a walk to the Royal Palace (about 20 minutes). Make sure to take Karl Johan’s Gate to get the Oslo vibe on your way. During the summer months, you can take a tour of the Royal Palace and it’s best to buy tickets in advance. No matter which season you decide to travel, you can always count on seeing the changing of the King’s Guard and their unique hats.

Next, make your way to Kaffebrennereiet for a delicious coffee and Norwegian pastry. Coffee culture is BIG in Norway, so embrace the coffee breaks!

Once you’re recharged and caffeinated, take a walk down to The Akershus Fortress (about a 20-minute walk). The fortress dates back to the 14th century and has an impressive history and an amazing view of the Oslofjord on a clear day. There are guided tours available in the summer, but even without one it’s worth a visit!

Head back to your hotel for some downtime and have the evening to yourself exploring the city. For one of the best cocktail bars in the world… seriously it was ranked #10. Go to Himkok (Him-Kook) on Storgata. Himkok translates to Moonshine from Norwegian. The bar is easy to miss, so make sure you reserve a table well in advance and look for #27 above the doorway.

For dinner, you can either try the Thief Restaurant in your hotel for a fantastic Nordic inspired menu. Or, jump on the trolley or metro and check out another one of Oslo’s neighborhoods, I’d recommend Grunerløkka!

Oslo is proud to host the presentation of the Nobel Peace Prize every year (December), so what better way to start the day than to check out the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo. The exhibitions are constantly rotating, but always inspiring. I recommend you buy tickets in advance, and you can enjoy the museum on your own, with an audio guide or a live guided tour.

After spending some time at the museum, hop on the ferry from the city center to the Island of Bygdøy. The ferry takes about 15 minutes or so and only runs during the summertime.

Once you arrive in Bygdøy, you can either check out another museum or two. My recommendations would be The FRAM Museum and/or The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History. The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History is a fascinating and interactive museum that features the Gol Stave Church dating back to the 13th century! If you want to see more than one of these museums while you’re in Bygdøy, you can purchase a multi entry ticket in advance.

Or if you’re pretty museumed out for the day, just take a walk in the beautiful Norwegian nature. There are several walking paths around the island and who knows what you might find along the way! Bygdøy also has several options for lunch and of course, a coffee.

Afterward, head back into Oslo proper and head over to the Bjørvika/Gamle Oslo neighborhood. Once you arrive, you’ll have no choice but to notice the gorgeous Oslo Opera House located right on the water. A true marvel of engineering and architecture, the opera house is supposed to be reminiscent of an iceberg and appears to be floating above the water’s surface. In truth, it actually is thanks to amazing architecture and several (ok more than several) support beams anchored deep underwater. You can take a guided tour of the opera house as well should you wish, or just climb up its roof for a great place to sit and relax – with or without a cup of coffee.

If you really want to set the bar high for your evening meal, Maaemo is the pinnacle of Norwegian cuisine. Maaemo translates to ‘Mother Earth’ from ancient Norse and the entire menu is focused on the Norwegian terroir. Ranked with three coveted Michelin stars, this is a world class dining experience that will not disappoint. The king crab in smoked reindeer broth is a must have.

Alternatively, if fine dining is not what you’re looking for, check out Vaaghals. Named after the ancient Norwegian boat that was excavated from the area, Vaaghals highlights only the best Norwegian ingredients with the option of a tasting menu or a la carte.

Take a morning flight from Oslo’s Gardemoen Airport to Tromsø Airport (about a two-hour direct flight). Disembark from your flight and be welcomed officially to the arctic circle! Catch your transfer from the airport to your hotel, The Clarion Hotel The Edge. Located right on the water’s edge, settle in and marvel at the beautiful views of the capital of the arctic circle.

Get out and take a stroll in downtown Tromsø! During the summer months, the streets of Tromsø are very alive with the locals taking advantage of the long days filled with sunshine. While you’re wandering around town, make sure you try the local seafood delicacies including Cod, Halibut, Shrimp from Lyngen and Atlantic Wolffish. And last but not least, an absolute must try is the traditional stockfish! Seafood isn’t the only delicacy in Tromsø during the summer though, keep your eye out for the local strawberries as well. Rumor has it, they are considered by some experts to be the world’s best!

Swing by Mack Ølbryggen for a pint of beer at the world’s northern most brewery. Or if you’d like something a bit craftier, check out Bryggeri 13.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then meet your guide for a Husky Puppy Training Experience at a Husky Farm! It takes about half an hour by car to get to the farm (provided) and once you arrive, learn about how the new puppies are in one of the more traditional modes of transportation in the Arctic circle, dogsledding! Get a guided tour of the dog yard and then go on a one to one-and-a-half hour hike with your new found canine companions. The whole time, you get to be an active part in their training. Lunch will be included as part of the experience, and you’ll be transported back to the original meeting point.

Go back to the hotel, grab some dinner, and relax a bit before your night activity. Then at 10 p.m., head out on your private catamaran to see the midnight sun. Sail through the Arctic fjords on your guided cruise for a truly unforgettable experience. During the midnight sun period (May-July) the Arctic transforms allowing nature and wildlife to thrive in the everlasting sunlight. Teas and coffees are complimentary while on board with alcoholic beverages available for purchase. There is also a bathroom on board should you require one during the journey.

Jump on a morning flight from Tromsø and head south to the beautiful city of Ålesund! Ålesund has been consistently ranked as Norway’s prettiest city, boasting a unique architectural style called “Jugenstil.” Ålesund’s architecture is quite unique for the region as it was rebuilt by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany following a devastating fire in 1904 that destroyed much of the city.

Check into the Hotel Brosundet, in my opinion the best hotel in Ålesund, and you will very quickly fall in love with the cozy esthetics of the property. Well located near the center of the city, the Hotel Brosundet is an icon that has been part of the fabric of Ålesund for decades.

Drop off your bags and take a walk to Aksla, the picturesque viewpoint overlooking Ålesund and its surrounding islands. If you end up walking through Byparken (Ålesund’s city park), keep an eye out for the statue of the famous Viking raider, “Rollo” who is well known today from being a character on the popular Netflix series, “Vikings.” Rollo is said to have been born and raised on the nearby Island of Giske, at least that’s what local legend says, and this statue is only one of two statues of him in the world.

Make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes as Aksla has quite a few stairs 418 to be exact, but the view is absolutely worth it!

Once you’ve taken in the view, head back down to the city for a coffee at Dråpe Ålesund Kaffehus and the obligatory pastry. Then head over to the docks to catch your evening two-hour Wildlife Sea Safari. The sea safari will take you out to the storied Runde Island, home to the Puffin! You’ll have the opportunity to see Norwegian marine life up close and feel like you are in your own National Geographic series!

Once you arrive back on the docks, grab a bite to eat at Molo. This local spot is serving up some delicious burgers and craft beers (made on site).

Day 7 - Ålesund

Go on a half day tailor made outdoor guided tour of the Sunnmøre region, including kayaking, hiking and biking through the breathtaking Norwegian landscape!

Then board your next experience right outside your hotel. A fjord cruise through the world renowned Geirangerfjord. Geiranger is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the deepest fjords in the world. The route to get to Geiranger is beautiful on its own, but once you arrive, Geiranger has a tendency to take your breath away. Since you’ll be on a smaller boat, you’ll be able to explore more of the fjords that the larger cruise ships can’t manage. Less crowds and more peaceful magic all to yourself.

The cruise will take you back to the Hotel Brosundet afterward where you can enjoy the rest of the night to yourself.

For dinner, may I recommend Sjøbua. A casually elegant seafood restaurant that blurs the lines between bistro and fine dining. What a better way to end the perfect day!

Reservations are strongly recommended.

How does taking a boat to your next hotel sound? Amazing, I thought so too! Board your luxury cruise and begin your adventure through more of the jaw dropping fjords you didn’t see yesterday, culminating in your arrival at your next hotel, The Union Øye Hotel. In this part of Norway, boat travel is in many cases the fastest and easiest form of transportation. However, if you prefer, there is also a land transfer option available.

The Union Øye Hotel, tucked in the Sunnmøre Alps, has been catering to European Royalty since 1891. Notable travelers who have stayed at the property are Kaiser Wilhelm, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Roald Amundsen just to name a few. It was within the walls of the Union Øye that these historical figures fell in love with Norway. You will quickly feel that same magic after you check in. Ask for the Climber’s Book from the reception staff and read the entries from many world-famous mountaineers about their adventures!

Today you have a choice of the type of day you would like to enjoy.

Either a more relaxed day where you can recharge with an outdoor swim and sauna in the fjords, followed by a guided wine tasting with the on-site sommelier. The wine room is split out into two, for red and white. Which one you start with is completely up to you!

Or a more active day.

Start your day on the water with a tranquil kayaking journey through the fjords. Norway is one of the only places on earth where you can have such a peaceful experience kayaking in the sea. Thanks in large part to the natural granite barriers provided by the surrounding fjords, it’s an experience unlike any other and one that connects you with nature. Afterward, jump on an E-bike to view the incredible scenery from another vantage point.

Even though you won’t want to, check out of the Union Øye Hotel and take your transfer back to Ålesund Airport (about two-and-a-half hours). Board your flight to Bergen (about 50 minutes) and check into your hotel, The Opus XVI.

After you check in and get settled, get out and explore the city! Take a walk to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, the Bryggen Hanseatic Warf. Take in the scenery and sea faring culture that embodies Bergen! If you are looking for a quick bite for lunch, or even a snack, you have to check out Trekorneren. This Bergen staple is serving up one of Norway’s favorite handheld foods, Pølse! But this isn’t just your run of the mill hotdog stand. With menu items such as currywurst and reindeer sausage with lingonberry sauce, this spot is a must try!

If you’re feeling up to it, take the Fløibanen (cable car) up to the top of the mountain overlooking Bergen for nice walking trails and more spectacular views.

For dinner, try a well-known local staple, Bryggeloftet & Stuene Restaurant. Located right on the water, they serve traditional Norwegian fare, including reindeer! Although the food and atmosphere is fantastic, for some it may be a bit touristy. Alternatively, if you are looking for more of a local spot, check out Baban. A Kurdish restaurant serving up grilled meats and freshly baked breads, what’s not to like!

Today is hiking day! There are dozens of great trails in and around Bergen, but the two that I can highly recommend that are suitable for almost everyone are: Kossdalsvingane and Skogsøyna. Both are located about 50 minutes’ drive from Bergen’s city center, and both are classified as easy hikes that are perfect for adults and children alike. Kossdalsvingane is accessible by the #900 bus that leaves from the city center and takes about an hour and 25 minutes one way, while the Skogsøyna hike is only available by car. Kossdalsvigane is famous for its 17 hairpin turns that ascend the mountain, which make for a great photograph. Skogsøyna on the other hand is a bit less well known and typically quieter, it also has a very different type of scenery as the trail runs right along the rocky outcrop along the water’s edge.

Afterward, make your way back into town and take some time to relax and refresh back at the hotel. Make sure to take a hot shower because the next stop is Magic Ice Bar! Everything in the bar is made from ice, including the glasses you will be drinking from! Inside you’ll also find an art gallery showcasing Norwegian and other international artists made entirely of ice. It is a really cool experience (pun intended).

For dinner, if you are looking for an upscale dining experience, then you must try Lysverket. Highly awarded with a Michelin star and located in the Kobe 4 Art Museum, this 10-course tasting menu will take you through only the best of Norwegian fine cuisine. Or if you are looking for something a bit more homey, check out Moon for a little piece of France in the heart of Bergen.

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and board your train for a quick trip to the scenic district of Voss. Followed by a comfortable and charming bus journey passing the Stalheimsfossen and Sivlefossen waterfalls. You’ll then arrive in Gudvangen where you will catch a ferry through the majestic Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the quaint village of Flåm will be waiting for you on the other side of the fjord. You will disembark from the boat and check into your hotel for the night, The Flåmsbrygga Hotel.

Take some time to relax after a day of traveling or just go down to the Ægir Brewpub for a local Viking inspired craft beer and dinner!

After breakfast, catch the world-famous Flåm Railway and ascend the steepest standard gauge railway in the world! This is one of the most scenic train rides in the world and truly a one-of-a-kind bucket list experience. Don’t miss a photo opportunity as you ascend past awe-inspiring scenery up the Aurlandsjford to the high mountain station of Myrdal. The train will climb nearly 3,000 feet during the hour journey, stopping briefly at the Kjosfoss Waterfall along the way. Once you arrive in Myrdal, you will transfer to the storied Bergen Line which will take you into Oslo’s city center.

Once you arrive, check into the Hotel Amerikalinjen located directly across from Oslo S. Head over to the Munch Museum for your final experience in Oslo. The museum showcases one of Norway’s most prolific artists, Edvard Munch, along with a rotating exhibition of other artists. Munch is famous for his painting titled, “The Scream,” which you can visit along with much of his other work in this 13-story art museum.

Take the rest of the day and evening to enjoy Oslo on your final day in Norway.

End of trip and flight home!