Norway, one of the most beautiful Nordic countries known for its stunning natural landscapes, is located on the northwest of the Scandinavian Peninsula. It is impressive for its diverse geography, deep fjords, very high mountains and rugged coastal region.
With so many visit-worthy locations, such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, it inspired you to plan your one week in Norway stay to experience its charming beauty! The capital city is Oslo and some bigger cities that are worth your visit include Stavanger, Bergen and Trondheim.
Norway has a rich cultural heritage. Its traditional folk music, dance and literature are impressive. Examples of infamous figures are the playwright Henri Ibsen and the painter Edvard Munch were Norwegians.
Our full guide covers:
- Basic Introduction
- Where to stay in Norway
- How to get around
- What to see in Norway
- Things to do in Norway
- Tickets you have to buy before – must read
- Food and Restaurants
- Day Trips from Norway
- Itinerary for Norway
- Packing List
- City Map
If you have chosen to stay for one week in Norway, please note that it is heaven for outdoor activities addicts. Great skiing, hiking, snowboarding, fishing and kayaking are guaranteed. In addition, you will get to see The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) which can be seen only in winter months and the Midnight Sun phenomenon in the Arctic Circle, which is characteristic of summer.
In short, Norway is a country of natural beauty, rich culture and a high standard of life, blending in amazing tradition and delicious cuisine. Eager to start planning your Norway 7 day itinerary? Keep on reading!
1. Basic Introduction
We want to start with a simple intro to the things you need to know before coming to Norway.
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Language Spoken: Norwegian
Population: 5.408 million (2021)
Known for: Stunning Fjords; Northern Lights; Outdoor Activities; Rich History and Culture
Accommodation: Hotels, Hostels, Cabins, and Traditional Rorbuer
Find more details in our where to stay in Norway section below.
Public Transport: buses, trams and trains
More under how to get around.
Safety: Norway is the safest country in the world
Electricity: 230V/50Hz (European plug). Remember to pack your travel plug adapter.
2. Where to stay in Norway
Norway is one of the leading countries in environmental sustainability and is incredibly beautiful, with plenty to offer. It is hard to decide which places to go, especially when you get to spend only 1 week in Norway. I will do my best to help, but be mindful of your preferences, budget and the regions you are planning to visit. My guide features a variety of accommodations, made to fit your requirements and the type of travel companions you’re taking this trip with. You get to choose from city hotels to some charming cabins in the rural part.
So, if you want to feel and experience the authenticity of Norway, I suggest you stay at these places:
Each of these places will provide a pleasant stay and a lot to visit. Oslo, the capital, is famous for its vibrant atmosphere. Bergen offers picturesque surroundings and historical charm.
Tromsø, on the other hand, is known for the Northern Lights show. And lastly, Trondheim is a historic gem of Norway, while the Fjord region is a synonym for the stunning views.
So, not that I’ve listed the locations you should add to your Norway 7-day itinerary, let me guide you through choosing the accommodation.
2.1 Where to stay in Oslo
Oslo is an excellent destination for everyone looking for an immersive one week in Norway! A city with a dynamic and vibrant spirit, offering rich historical and cultural heritage. The Royal Palace, the home of the Norwegian Monarch, is located there. The Vigeland Park, with more than 200 sculptures made by Gustaf Vigeland, is a real open-air museum and the most important spot to visit.
The National Gallery, the Opera House, the National Museum of Norway, the Botanical Garden, the Oslo Cathedral and many more attractions are also located in the vibrant Oslo. The main street in the city, Karl Johans Gate, connects the Royal Palace with the Central Station. It is full of shops, cafes and restaurants, all inviting you to experience their energy.
Smarthotel, Oslo
Only a 5-minute walk from the Karl Johan shopping street, Smarthotel offers small double rooms and suites. You can enjoy breakfast on a terrace and use the kiosk to buy snacks or drinks. Families and couples like the accommodation, because all major city highlights are in its surroundings.
Citybox, Oslo
Citybox is in the very centre of Oslo. The rooms are very bright and have a private bathroom. There is a TV lounge and a seating area within the hotel, where you can relax. Vending machines are at your disposal, as a microwave is. This hotel is great for couples.
2.2 Where to stay in Bergen
If you decide to stay in this captivating, second-largest coastal city in Norway, you will enjoy the views of mountains and fjords. The Fish Market in the harbour and the Bryggen Wharf, as they call the waterfront, are perfect to visit, while the Fløibanen funicular can take you to the top of the mountain. Lots more to see and explore. Do not miss the Bergen aquarium.
Citybox, Bergen
Charming and modern at the same time, Citybox offers you a self-service check-in and brightly decorated rooms. There is a shared microwave and vending machines for snacks and drinks. It is very close to the Art Museum and some other places worth visiting. Perfect for couples!
Moxy, Bergen
In Moxy, despite the nice room with a private bathroom, you can enjoy the terrace, bar and fitness centre. It is only 1 km from the Møhlenpris Baddeplas Beach and 3 km approximate distance from Haakon’s Hall. Couples and families prefer this hotel, given its quiet ambience.
2.3 Where to stay in Tromsø
The city of Tromsø is located in the Arctic Circle in North Norway. Famous for the Northern Lights, stunning landscapes and cultural life, it is a perfect place to add to your Norway 7 day itinerary. There are many things to enjoy while in Tromsø: Tromsø Bridge; Arctic Cathedral; Cable Car taking you to Mount Storsteinen, where you simply mesmerise in the panorama of the fjords; Polaria, the Arctic-themed centre offering interactive exhibits; Arctic aquarium, an outdoor seal pool and a panoramic cinema.
Moxy, Tromsø
Moxy offers a fitness centre, a terrace and a bar. The significant tourist spots are nearby. Even the airport is near, just a kilometre away, making it a convenient place to stay.
Skaret by Vander, Tromsø
Skaret by Vander offers sea views and a fitness centre. It is 400m away from Polaris. You can enjoy the restaurant in the hotel. Family rooms are available. Each unit has a seating area, a fully equipped kitchen and a private bathroom. In addition, if you’re travelling with kids, they can enjoy the playground of the property.
2.4 Where to stay in Trondheim
Famous for its mediaeval architecture, this city of vibrant neighbourhoods offers many interesting places to visit during your one week in Norway. Nidaros Cathedral, Old Town Bridge, Ringve Museum, Rockheim (a museum of popular music), Art Museum and Munkholmen Island are just a few locations you can’t miss out on. The most interesting district is Bakklandet, charming for its cobblestoned streets, wooden houses and bohemian atmosphere.
Clarion Hotel, Trondheim
It is a hotel with an exceptionally modern design. It has a rooftop restaurant & bar on the 9th floor with a great view of the Trondheim Fjord. Clarion Hotel offers entrance to the nearby 3T Fitness Center and discount tickets for Pirbadet, Norway’s largest indoor water park.
The Living Room provides a lounge setting and à la carte dining menu. There is a also Skybar where you can enjoy a nice view of the city.
Penthouse, Lerkendal
The apartment offers a bedroom, a kitchen and a bathroom. There are also family rooms and a fitness centre. The garden with city views, together with the patio, will make your stay pleasant and relaxing.
2.5 Where to stay in Fjords
The Norwegian stunning fjords attract millions of tourists every year. Some which are worth visiting during your 1 week in Norway include Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, Sognefjord, Lysefjord, Romsdalsfjord, Nordfjord and Storfjord. Exploring these natural beauties, you have an opportunity to witness and immerse in the most spectacular natural wonders.
Fjords View, Sjøholt
Fjords View, a fully renovated residence dating from 1870, provides a captivating view of the Storfjord. With the convenience of a reliable bus service, you are near many fjords in the area, making it an ideal base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes.
Olden by the Fjords of Norway, Bjørkelund
Olden by the Fjords of Norway presents a spacious apartment with 4 bedrooms, an equipped kitchen, and a bathroom. The complex enhances your experience with additional amenities like a picnic area and a garden, allowing you to fully embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings.
3. How to get around Norway
Once you decide on the accommodation, it’s time to figure out the way you will move throughout the country. Undoubtedly the best way to explore whichever country you visit is by car. However, due to the climate conditions and the part of the year when you decide to spend one week in Norway, the country will offer you diverse transportation options. Anyway, here are the most convenient ways to explore Norway:
Northern Lights Chase Minibus Tour with Campfire: Join the minibus tour and chase the enchanting Northern Lights. Experience the full Arctic magic with marshmallows and warm drinks by the fire. It’s a cozy adventure you won’t want to miss!
Domestic Flights are the most efficient time-consuming way to get to the desired destination, especially if you travel between the cities in different parts of the country. It is good to know that Norwegian airports are well-connected and local flights are very short.
Trains are known for being punctual and modern. There is a very extensive train network, which makes your travel comfortable. Bergensbanen is the main train route and it connects Oslo with Bergen, while other major routes are Dovrebanen, between Oslo and Trondheim and Sørlandsbanen, between Oslo and Stavanger.
Buses are an essential part of Norway’s public transportation. There are public buses and long-distance buses, both known for being punctual and convenient.
Car Rentals, a few domestic and a few international agencies are on your disposal list. Renting a car is a very convenient and popular way to move throughout the country. Book your rental in advance, especially if you travel in the high season. You can use a driving licence from your native country, but it is preferable to have an International driving permit (IDP). Keep in mind that you can’t rent a car in Norway if you’re under 21 years of age. All the roads in the country are in great condition, but depending on the season, especially in winter, the conditions can be challenging.
4. What to see in Norway – The Must-Do’s
If you are wondering what to see during your 1 week in Norway, I will give you a suggestion of the most significant spots. Here is the list:
The Must Do’s are:
- Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigelandsparken)
- The Royal Palace (Det kongelige slott)
- The Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset)
More great sights to see in Norway are:
- The Munch Museum (Munch-museet)
- The Fram Museum (Frammuseet)
- The Oslo Opera House (Operahu
5. Things to do in Norway
Fjord Cruises
One of the most adventurous and unforgettable parts of your one week in Norway will definitely be the Fjord cruise. The stunning views, mesmerising surroundings and breathtaking natural wonders will be the best part of your trip.
The most iconic fjords are Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Lysefjord and Nærøyfjord. The fjord cruises can be focused on some specific fjords or include visiting some other natural wonders. Therefore, keep in mind that the cruises vary in duration, but are worth going to.
Hiking and Trekking
If you’re a hiking and trekking addict, then you have chosen a paradise for your one-week holiday. Due to its diverse landscapes, beginning from high mountains to deep fjords and lush valleys, you will find excitement in every step made.
The trails are convenient for all skill levels. Galdhøpiggen, Trolltunga, Preikestolen and Hardangervidda, are the most popular amongst many.
Northern Lights Chasing
This is a very exciting experience which is worth adding to your one week in Norway trip. You have to be in the northern regions for this because this is the best location to enjoy the Aurora Borealis magic.
Winter months, precisely from late September to early April are best as the nights are darker and longer. Chase for the clear sky, check the Aurora Borealis forecast and dress warm, taking a good camera with you.
I will suggest joining a Guided Northern Lights Tour because the operators have all the relevant info and know the best locations to spot the best views.
Oslo Opera House
It was opened in 2008 and its location in the Bjørvika district, near the centre of Oslo, gives you stunning views of the city and the fjord. I will again suggest a Tour Guide visit since your impression will be enriched with fascinating facts about its architecture.
Also, this will give you a unique chance to see some inside attractions that are not allowed for the public. Within this Opera House, there are some restaurants where you can enjoy and relax, perfect for catching a breath in the middle of your one week trip in Norway.
City Festivals
No matter when you are going to visit Norway, there are festivals throughout the year, so keep this in mind if enjoy events of this kind. Some important festivals are the Bergen International Festival in Bergen (May-June), St. Olav Festival in Trondheim (late July), Oslo Chamber Music Festival in Oslo (August), Molde International Jazz Festival in Molde (July), Kongsberg Jazz Festival in Kongsberg (July), The Northern Lights Festival in Tromsø(January- February) and many more.
These festivals expose Norway’s rich culture, enabling locals and tourists to enjoy music and arts and feel the vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Holmenkollen Ski Museum
This attraction is located in the Holmenkollen area which is only 20 min away from Oslo Center. It is close to the worldwide known Holmenkollen Ski Jump trail. When there, you will enjoy the great panoramic view of Oslo and the nearby fjord.
This is one of the oldest world museums of this type, offering artefacts about the history of skiing. You will learn about the skiing origins, development and achievements of domestic and international skiers.
The virtual reality experience that you can experience in the museum is unique. There is a ski simulator which gives you the feeling of skiing down a slope. Norway is a country with a rich history in skiing, so this is not just a suggestion, but a must-do visit to become closer to the cultural and sporting history of the country.
6. Tickets you have to buy before (Must Read)
You can’t always plan the dates for your tours, so it’s best to get things settled in advance if possible.
Here is a list of what you must buy before you set on your 1 week Norway trip:
- Museum Tickets
- Guided Tours
- Train Tickets
7. Food & Restaurants
The list below suggests some famous Norwegian dishes which are authentic and show the country’s gastronomic tradition.
- Gravlaks
- Rakfisk
- Rømmegrøt
- Lutefisk
- Koldtbord
- Raspeballer
Suggested Restaurants for You:
8. Day Trips in Norway
How to do the day trips? There are 3 options:
- Rent a car on your own and hit the road
- take public transport
- join a tour
Here are the list of sights that you might want to check out for your day trips:
- Oslo: Vigeland Sculpture Park (Vigelandsparken), The Royal Palace (Det kongelige slott), The Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset)
- Bergen: Bryggen Wharf, Fløibanen Funicular, Fish Market (Fisketorget)
- Tromsø: Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen), Tromsø Island
- Trondheim: Nidaros Cathedral (Nidarosdomen), Bakklandet, Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro)
- Fjords: Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, Sognefjord
9. Itinerary for 7 days
Here is a detailed itinerary for your one week in Norway. I hope I have made your stay relaxing and organised.
Day 1-3: Oslo
Once you arrive in Oslo, it will be nice to start by getting to your accommodation before you explore the city centre. In the morning hours, you can relax in the Vigeland Park and Museum. Having lunch in one of the nice restaurants on your way will be a great idea. Later, visit the Viking Ship Museum. In the evening hours, there are many restaurants on the Karl Johans Gate street, where you can enjoy some traditional Norwegian dishes with a glass of wine.
The next morning’s agenda is to visit the Farm Museum on Bygdøy Peninsula, have lunch there and come back to Oslo. Later, walk along the Aker Brygge waterfront, have dinner and enjoy the trendy Grünerløkka or Bjørvika districts.
Spend the third day visiting the Royal Palace and witness the changing of the guard ceremony and walk in the beautiful gardens. Oslo Opera House will be a delight to explore before you sit down for lunch. Afterwards, step into the Norsk Folkemuseum, an open-air museum of Norwegian cultural history.
Day 4-5: Bergen
As you arrive by train from Oslo, make sure to settle in your accommodation first. Then, begin by visiting the iconic Bryggen Wharf. The narrow alleys, the colourful Hanseatic buildings and small shops will refresh your spirit. Next, have lunch at the Fish Market, which is a unique experience. In the afternoon, you can reach the top of the mountain by the Fløbanen funicular. In the evening, choose one of the seafood restaurants on the waterfront.
On the second day in this city, you may plan a nature exploration by visiting Mount Ulriken. Walking or taking a cable car is up to you. Up there you can enjoy a lunch with a breathtaking view. In the afternoon don’t miss the Kode Art Museum and a diner in the Sandviken neighbourhood, after which you can choose a nightlife event.
Day 6-7: Fjords and Nature
It is best if you can start your day early and travel to the longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. Take a train from Bergen to Myrdal and after, board the very famous Flåm Railway. Settle for a relaxing lunch in Flåm village and try traditional food. In the afternoon join the fjord cruise and enjoy a dinner in Voss.
Next day, get to Hardangerfjord, well-known for its landscapes and orchards. Have lunch in Odda where you can get by train instead of taking a long hike. The afternoon can be spent in Hardanger, visiting the Nature Center there and taking a drive along the fjord.
Later get back to Oslo, so you can finish your one week in Norway being on time for your plane.
10. Packing List
Warm layered clothing for changing weather if travelling in Winter and light breathable clothes if you travel in Summer
- Hiking shoes
- Waterproof boots
- Wool socks
- Hat and gloves
- Swimsuit (if you visit in the summer season)
- Some Norwegian currency for small purchases
My advice is to check the weather forecast for one week in Norway, not long before your departure. And if you want to explore more exciting destinations, don’t forget to read the rest of my blogs.
11. Printed Guides & Map
These guides are best for the ones looking for a printed version.
Once you come to Norway, you will also receive a paper map of the city.
- Lonely Planet Guide for Norway
- Fodor’s Essential Norway
Here is again our map of Norway with the recommended hotels and neighborhoods.
Questions? Contact us
I tried to make this guide as useful and complete as possible. However, chances are you still have questions left.
Therefore, any questions? Anything not clear?
Please get in touch with us, I would be very happy to help. I want to make this guide as useful as possible for you.
You see, your question actually helps me as well.
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