No matter what time of year you choose to visit northern Norway, you will find a wealth of things to see and do. Travelling to Norway during the summer months gives you the best opportunity for hiking through the region’s stunning scenery and visiting the pretty coastal villages. However, if you are hoping to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, the best time to visit is between October and March. Wintertime also gives you the chance to have a go at other activities such as ice-fishing, snowshoeing, or taking the family to find Santa Claus. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not spend a night in one of Norway’s snow hotels?
Karasjok
Discover the past and present Sami way of life at the Sapmi Culture Park, where you can also see traditional glass-blowing at the Boble Glasshytte. If you want to learn more about the Sami people, you can visit Karasjok’s Sami museum. For an adventure with a difference in wintertime, try a husky safari.
Lofoten Islands
The breathtaking scenery of the Lofoten Islands is simply unforgettable. Hiking and cycling are both popular on the islands in the summer months, while from January to March you have the best chance of some dramatic shots of the northern lights against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Don’t forget to visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you can see a reconstruction of a Viking longhouse.
North Cape
The North Cape is as just about as close as you can get on dry land to the North Pole, with only the tiny islands of the Svalbard archipelago lying in between. The island of Magerøya is home to a remarkable cliff face at Gjesvaerstappen, where you can see huge numbers of sea birds, including puffins, cormorants and gannets.
Tromsø
The best way to view the Tromsø fjords is from the water. There are plenty of fjord cruises to choose from, with both day trips and longer voyages available, all giving you a chance to explore the magnificent scenery. This is also the perfect place to go whale-watching, with one of the highest levels of whale sightings in the world. You might also be lucky enough to see porpoises, seals and white-beaked dolphins, as well as a range of sea-birds. Other attractions in Tromsø include Polaria, the arctic aquarium, Tromsø University Museum, and the striking architecture of the Arctic Cathedral.
Travelling in northern Norway gives you a truly unique experience, whether you visit in summer or winter. Whether you want to go diving or skiing, watch wildlife or the northern lights, you are sure to create some magical memories when you visit northern Norway.
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