Norway: Chasing the Northern Lights + Oslo

Norway is a perfect combination of urban charm and Arctic wonder, and my adventure, “Norway: Chasing the Northern Lights + Oslo,” brought these two elements together.

For those looking to combine culture and natural beauty, this Norway itinerary offers an unforgettable trip.

As usual, I’ll begin with some general information about the country, then dive right into the itinerary—with a map!

Remember also to check out my post, The Magic Behind the Northern Lights. It will prepare you to enjoy the spectacle even more.

This is the list of everything you will find in this article:

A. Information of Interest

Location

The Kingdom of Norway is located in the northeast of Europe and the Scandinavian Peninsula, sharing borders with Sweden, Finland and Russia.

It is bordered by the Barents Sea, Norwegian Sea, North Sea, and the Skagerrak Strait, which separates it from the Danish peninsula.

Tromsø is situated in northern Norway, 350 km inside the Arctic Circle. It ranks as the seventh-largest city in Norway and the second-largest in the Lapland region.

Area

Norway is the sixth largest country in Europe, with 384,482 km², including the Svalbard Islands (60,299 km²).

The maximum distance from north to south is 1,752 km, and 430 km from east to west. In addition, it has a coastline of 25,148 km, including the fjords.

Its highest mountain is Galdhøpiggen, at 2,469 metres (8,100 ft).

Population

Demonym

Norwegian.

Language

Currency

In my post Currency exchange, cards and cash abroad (Complete Guide), there is a table that allows you to see the currency used by entering the name of the country you are interested in. Additionally, this article provides all the essential information you need to know about money and travelling.

Plugs and Voltage

Remember that you can refer to my post Plug Types by Country to find out about the different types of plugs used in each country and the corresponding voltage. This will help you determine if you need an adapter and the specific type required. 

This information is available in the Travel Logistics section, along with everything else you need to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

Best time to visit Norway and How long you should stay

*️⃣ Best Time to Visit

• If you want to see the Northern Lights in Norway, the best months to visit are from late September to March, as it needs to be nighttime to view them clearly.

• On the other hand, if you intend to sail through the Arctic or experience the midnight sun, the best time to go is in summer, between June and August.

• The ideal time to visit Oslo is from May to September when temperatures are milder.

I travelled in September because my trip combined Oslo and Tromsø to see the Northern Lights.

If you want to pick a different travel destination based on the most suitable time to visit, see my posts Best Time to Go and Where to Travel Each Month. It will help you plan your trip better.

*️⃣ How many days do you need

Regarding the number of days required, I’ll break it down by activities:

• Oslo: Between 2 and 3 days.
• Northern Lights: This is more of a personal preference, as it depends on how many days you want to enjoy the spectacle. However, I recommend staying for at least 3 days to ensure you have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights, especially in case the weather prevents visibility on your first day.
• Fjord Cruise: At least 7 days.

In my posts, How Many Days I Need to Visit Each Country and How Many Days I Need to Visit Each City, I explain the number of days needed to visit each country and the most tourist cities.

Flag

The flag of Norway, established in 1821, closely resembles that of Denmark, a country with which it was unified for four centuries.

It has a red background and a Scandinavian cross in white with a blue interior. These colours (red, white and blue) traditionally symbolise freedom.

Origin

To really get to know a country and its people, it’s essential to learn a bit about their history. For this reason, I will provide a summary of the history of Norway and its capital, Oslo, below.

Norway’s Brief History

• Early Settlements. Inhabited since the end of the last Ice Age, with early Norse culture developing around 2000 BCE.

Oslo’s Brief History

The statue “Christian IV’s Glove” is dedicated to King Christian IV, who rebuilt the city after the fire of 1624. Legend has it that he pointed to this spot and said, “The new city will be here”.

• Founded Around 1049. Established by King Harald Hardrada, Oslo is one of Scandinavia’s oldest capitals.
• Medieval Trade Hub. Grew as a centre for trade and governance in the Middle Ages, with a fortress and cathedral.
• Destroyed by Fire in 1624. Rebuilt and renamed Christiania by King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway; later returned to “Oslo” in 1925.
• Union with Sweden. Oslo remained Norway’s capital during the union with Sweden (1814–1905), gaining prominence as Norway pursued independence.
• Modernisation and Growth. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Oslo expanded rapidly with industrialization, modern architecture, and cultural landmarks.
• Contemporary Capital. Today, Oslo is known for its green initiatives, cultural diversity, and thriving arts scene, symbolising modern Norwegian identity.

Interesting Facts about Norway

• High Standard of Living. Norway consistently ranks high on global quality of life indexes, thanks to its strong economy, excellent healthcare, and robust social welfare systems.

• Over 98% of Norway’s electricity comes from renewable sources, primarily hydropower, making it one of the world’s leaders in sustainable energy production.

B. How to Get Around Norway

Between Cities

Norway is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to travel by train, boat, bus, or plane. The best option depends on your trip type:

How to Get Around Oslo

The best way to navigate Oslo is by using public transport, which is efficient, safe, and reasonably priced.

The easiest way to buy tickets is to use the company’s mobile app, Ruter, which manages the transportation system.

For more information about routes, prices, and schedules, visit the official Ruter website.

C. Itinerary – Norway: Chasing the Northern Lights + Oslo

Below is the map of my itinerary for visiting Oslo and Tromsø in 6 days. Each day is colour-coded and numbered to indicate the order of the sites to be visited.

The trip began in Oslo, a city that blends modern design with a rich history. Strolling along its waterfront, I discovered contemporary architecture alongside Viking heritage, and I quickly understood why Oslo is considered one of Europe’s hidden gems. 

Furthermore, Oslo surprised me with its contemporary design, extensive cultural offerings and cosy cafés, offering endless opportunities to explore and relax.

1. Oslo – Day 1

1.1 Norwegian National Opera and Ballet

The first stop on my route is the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, located in the port of Oslo on the shore of its fjord.

This impressive and modern building, which opened in 2008, has become a symbol of the city. Its design is reminiscent of an iceberg rising out of the water.

In addition to being Norway’s most significant musical and performing arts institution, it allows visitors to walk on its roof, offering panoramic views of the Oslo fjord and the city skyline.

Inside, it has a main auditorium with a capacity for 1,369 people, a smaller one with a capacity for 400 spectators and the ‘Studio’, which can accommodate 200 people.

1.2 Munch Museum

Less than a 5-minute walk southeast from the Opera is the new Munch Museum.

The new museum opened in November 2021 and is much larger than the previous one.

The Munch Museum, which used to be next to the Botanical Garden, opened its doors in 1963 to feature the art of Edvard Munch that he left to the city of Oslo in his will.

One of Edvard Munch’s most famous works is The Scream. This museum has three versions of the piece: a painting, a drawing, and a lithograph. Only one version is displayed at a time, rotating throughout the day. However, the most renowned version, created in 1893, is not shown here; it is displayed at the National Museum.

It features nearly 28,000 original pieces and showcases both permanent and temporary exhibitions, along with panoramic views and interactive areas.

1.3 Barcode Project

About a 5-minute walk north, we find a group of buildings called the ‘Barcode Project‘.

It started as a redevelopment project for this area, which was once an industrial dock; this striking architectural development along the Oslo waterfront consists of 12 high-rise buildings. Each is designed to look like barcodes from above, creating a distinctive and modern skyline for Oslo.

1.4 Tiger Statue (Tigeren)

Continuing northwest, just in front of the entrance to the train station (Oslo Central Station), is the ‘Tigeren’. 

This famous tiger has a fascinating history that ties into the city’s identity.

The bronze tiger statue, created by artist Elena Engelsen and installed in 2000, pays tribute to Oslo’s nickname, Tigerstaden, which means “Tiger City.” This nickname originates from a 19th-century poem by the poet Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, who used the term “tiger city” to emphasise the dangers of urban life in contrast to the countryside.

Over the years, this nickname has shifted from being viewed negatively to becoming a source of pride, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Oslo. Today, the 4.5-metre (15-foot) statue is a well-known symbol of the city and a popular gathering spot for people to take photos.

1.5 Karl Johans Gate

Next to the tiger, we’ll take one of the most famous streets in the city, Karl Johans Gate.

This lively main street runs from Oslo Central Station to the Royal Palace. It has numerous shops, cafes and some of the most famous buildings in Oslo.

It was named after the King of Sweden and Norway, Charles III John.

1.6 Oslo Cathedral (Oslo Domkirke)

Just a 5-minute walk down the famous street (Karl Johans Gate), we find the Oslo Cathedral on the right.

Built in the late 17th century, Oslo’s main cathedral is known for its beautiful baroque interior. It is still used for royal and state ceremonies, including weddings and official events. It is also known as the Church of Our Saviour.

I must admit I was a bit disappointed, as it felt more like a neighbourhood church than a cathedral.

1.7 Parliament (Stortinget)

As we continue down Karl Johans Street, we reach the Norwegian Parliament, known as Storting. Inaugurated in 1866, it serves as the seat of the Norwegian National Assembly.

Admission is free, and guided tours are available in Norwegian and English.

✳️ Recommendations for eating/drinking:

2. Oslo – Day 2

Today, I’ll begin my day in the Bygdøy neighbourhood, located on a peninsula west of Oslo, which is easily accessible by ferry.

It’s a popular leisure area for its extensive forest and park area and for being home to five national museums:

• Fram Museum
• Kon-Tiki Museum
• Viking Ship Museum
• Norwegian Folk Museum
• Oscarshall Palace (opened as a museum in the 1990s)

It is a very exclusive area, home to the most expensive properties in the country.

2.1 Fram Museum (Frammuseet)

The Fram Museum is home to the original Fram ship, which was built in 1892. This ship travelled closer to the North and South Poles than any other wooden ship in history, earning its reputation as the strongest ship in the world.

The explorers who led the expeditions are also honoured: Fridtjof Nansen (1893-1896), Otto Sverdrup (1898-1902) and Roald Amundsen (1910-1912).

It features exhibitions about the Arctic and the Northwest Passage, along with projections on polar history.

? Tip: Save money by purchasing the combined ticket, which includes admission to the Fram Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Norwegian Maritime Museum.

2.2 Kon-Tiki Museum

Adjacent to the Fram Museum is the Kon-Tiki Museum, which opened in 1949.

This museum displays the original Kon-Tiki raft, which explorer Thor Heyerdahl used in 1947 to sail from Peru to Polynesia. Heyerdahl’s journey showed that ancient cultures could undertake long sea voyages using only basic technology.

The Oscar-winning documentary Kon-Tiki, which won an Academy Award in 1950, is screened daily at noon in the lower-level cinema.

The museum is open every day of the year, although its hours may vary.

2.3 Viking Ship Museum

Located on the same peninsula is the Viking Ship Museum, which opened in 1926. It is currently closed for renovation until 2027.

It houses some of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world, including the renowned Oseberg ship, which dates back to the 9th century. This ship was discovered intact in the largest known ship burial ever.

2.4 Norwegian Folk Museum (Norsk Folkemuseum)

Just 400 metres from the Viking Ship Museum is the Norwegian Folk Museum.

It is an open-air museum showcasing over 160 traditional buildings from different regions of Norway, including a remarkable 13th-century wooden church from Gol: Stave Church.

In summer, there are many activities with traditional dances, animals, baking, etc. Additionally, it offers a large Christmas market every year.

2.5 Vigeland Park (Vigelandsparken)

Located in the west of central Oslo, about 3.2 km (2 miles) from the Folk Museum, is one of Norway’s most famous parks, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, with an area of ​​52 hectares.

Among the most famous ones are:

2.6 Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Ski Museum

The next stop is just outside Oslo, about 8 km northwest of Vigeland Park, the Holmenkollen Ski Jump.

It is one of the oldest ski jumps in the world, dating back to 1892. It offers 360º views of Oslo, its fjord, and the surrounding forest.

Additionally, it features a ski museum, shops, a ski simulator, and a café.

Tip: If you have little time and you are not a ski enthusiast, this may be dispensable.

3. Oslo – Day 3

3.1 Akershus Fortress (Akershus Festning)

The first visit of the day will be to one of the must-see places in the city, the Akershus Fortress, strategically located next to the Oslo Fjord.

It consists of a group of buildings built in the 13th century to protect the city. Since then, it has served as a royal residence, prison, and military base over the centuries. Today, it functions as a mausoleum for the kings of Norway, as well as a museum.

If you have little time, the main attraction of the complex is the castle.

3.2 Oslo City Hall (Oslo Rådhus)

Less than a kilometre to the northwest, we have the Oslo City Hall, a well-known monument with a lot of history.

Although it was inaugurated in 1950, construction began in the 1930s but was delayed due to World War II. The building has a unique brick exterior and two twin towers.

Oslo City Hall serves as a prominent symbol of Norwegian art, history, and culture, representing both the city and the country with pride.

3.3 Nobel Peace Center

Just a short walk of less than 5 minutes from city hall, you’ll find the inspiring Nobel Peace Centre, a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of peace.

This museum is dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize and its laureates. It also shares the story of Alfred Nobel’s legacy along with global peace efforts.

3.4 National Museum (Nasjonalmuseet)

Next to the Nobel Peace Prize Centre (100 m) is the National Museum.

Opened in 1837, this museum covers an area of 55,000 m² and is Norway’s largest art museum, displaying works from antiquity to modern art.

It is home to Edvard Munch’s iconic painting, The Scream, the original version from 1893. The museum also features other works by him, such as Despair, The Dance of Life, and Madonna.

3.5 Royal Palace (Det Kongelige Slott)

Next, I walk to the Royal Palace, which is located less than a kilometre north of the National Museum.

Built in the early 19th century, this building is the official residence of the Norwegian monarch and is one of the city’s most significant landmarks. It offers guided tours during the summer months and features beautiful gardens that include sculptures of famous people.

Every day at 1:30 pm, the changing of the guard takes place. While it’s not as spectacular as the one in London, you can observe it closely, and it’s still interesting.

3.6 Grünerløkka Neighbourhood

To finish my route through Oslo, I visited its most alternative neighbourhood – Grünerløkka – which is located about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the palace.

It is a trendy neighbourhood in Oslo known for its artistic atmosphere and historic charm. Once industrial, it is now full of cafes, vintage shops and street art.

Highlights include Thorvald Meyers Gate, where you can shop in boutiques; Blå, where you can listen to live music by the river; Mathallen Food Hall, where you can taste gourmet bites; and Birkelunden Park, where a lively flea market is held on Sundays.

It is popular with young locals and is the bohemian and creative heart of Oslo.

4. Tromsø – Day 4

It’s time to travel to the Arctic to chase the long-awaited Northern Lights.

There are many places where you can see the Northern Lights. I chose Tromsø, a city in northern Norway, 350 km (218 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. It is recognized as one of the best places in the world to witness the fascinating Northern Lights.

If you are curious about the Northern Lights, read my post, The Magic Behind the Northern Lights. It will prepare you to enjoy the show even more.

Arriving in Tromsø felt like entering a different world, filled with snowy mountains, frozen fjords, and skies that danced in shades of green and violet.

The flight from Oslo took only two hours, giving me plenty of time to explore the city. My first stop was ‘Polaria,’ one of the most popular attractions.

4.1 Polaria

Polaria is an Arctic aquarium focused on science that opened in 1998.

Designed to resemble falling ice blocks, it houses bearded seals native to Arctic waters.

They also present a unique panoramic film about Svalbard and videos of the Northern Lights.

It is currently being expanded, but it remains open every day of the year. The new seal pool, which will be three times larger than the current one, is expected to open in 2025.

4.2 Prestvannet Lake

As it was a clear day and the app measuring geomagnetic activity indicated a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights, I decided to chase them.

To do this, I chose Prestvannet Lake. It is conveniently located near the city, making it accessible for a walk, and is a recommended spot for viewing the Aurora, as well as a beautiful place to stroll and observe birds.

In winter, locals use it for skating and cross-country skiing beneath the Northern Lights.

If, like me, you plan to spend hours at night photographing the Northern Lights, keep the following in mind:

1. Dress warmly: Temperatures can drop significantly at night, so it’s essential to wear layers to stay warm.
2. Bring a headlamp and reflective markers: These will help you navigate in the dark.
3. Carry a GPS device: Many trails are small and unmarked, which can make it challenging to find your way back. However, keep your GPS in a warm place, as my phone stopped working due to the cold temperatures.

By taking these precautions, you can have a more enjoyable and safer experience while capturing the beauty of the Northern Lights!

It was my first time seeing the Northern Lights, and I was nearly in tears from excitement. ¡They are pure magic!

5. Tromsø – Day 5

The cherry on top of the day today will be chasing the Northern Lights again. However, this time, I will be joining professionals on a tour I booked with a local company.

But that will not be until the evening, so I still have time to get to know the city of Tromsø.

5.1 Northern Norway Science Centre

Situated on the campus of the University of Tromsø, the Northern Norway Science Centre serves as an interactive science museum.

It is a popular place to explore topics such as the Northern Lights, climate science and local ecosystems.

It offers interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and educational programs focused on science, technology and the natural environment of the Arctic.

I had the chance to see a documentary with 360º images of one of the most famous aurora hunters, which was well worth the visit.

5.2 Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden

Near the Science Centre is the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden. As part of the University of Tromsø, this botanical garden opened to the public in 1994 and is recognised as the northernmost botanical garden in the world.

It showcases plants from the Arctic and mountains worldwide that bloom even during Tromsø’s brief summer.

It is open only from May to October, and admission is free.

5.3 Skansen

On the way to the Polar Museum, you will find the oldest building in Tromsø: Skansen.

Today, it is located in a historic quarter, but it dates back to 1789 when it served as a customs post.

5.4 Polar Museum (Polarmuseet)

Located in a former customs house, the Polar Museum provides insights into Arctic hunting, expeditions, and the lives of explorers such as Roald Amundsen.

It is a must-see in Tromsø.

5.5 Tromsø Cathedral

Tromsø Cathedral is located about 500 meters from the Polar Museum, in the heart of the city.

Built in 1861, it is Norway’s only wooden cathedral and the northernmost Protestant cathedral in the world.

The cathedral frequently hosts concerts during the Arctic Cathedral Festival.

5.6 The Northern Lights

At dusk, I went to the meeting point for the tour I booked to see the Northern Lights, which was a huge success.

I chose a small local company called Northern Soul Adventures after finding their brochure in the hotel. The owners, Jeff and Hannah, are a wonderful couple who are passionate about auroras and photography. There were only five of us in the group, which made it feel like we were all part of a family.

It’s difficult to express the wonders observed in the sky, so I’ll share the photos instead, as a picture is worth a thousand words!

After spending several hours enjoying the spectacle, it was finally time to return to the hotel, much to my regret. It was around 2 a.m., but I was still so excited that I found it difficult to fall asleep.

If you would like to learn more about the Northern Lights, check out my post, The Magic Behind the Northern Lights.

6. Tromsø – Day 6

Today is my last day in this fantastic city that has captivated me, and I still have places to explore, so I’m heading out.

6.1 Tromsø Bridge

The Tromsø Bridge, a distinctive landmark in the area, spans 1,036 meters and connects the mainland to the island of Tromsøya, where most of the city of Tromsø is situated.

The bridge, which opened in 1960, provides a stunning view of the Arctic Cathedral.

6.2 Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen)

Just across the bridge, you’ll find the famous Arctic Cathedral, a symbol of the city.

Built and consecrated in 1965, it can accommodate 600 people.

Renowned for its striking triangular architecture, the cathedral features one of the most extensive stained glass mosaics in Europe, which was added in 1972.

6.3 Tromsø Cable Car (Fjellheisen)

Note: This view is not from the top; it was taken from a point slightly above the cable car’s base.

I wasn’t able to go up there because it was closed for maintenance during my entire stay. I’ve heard that from that viewpoint, you get the best panoramic views of Tromsø, the surrounding fjords, and, if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights.

You can also climb the ‘Sherpatrappa,’ a stone staircase built by the Sherpas of Nepal, which has 1,200 steps! (I didn’t go up.)

6.4 Mack’s Brewery (Ølhallen Pub)

And to end the day, a stop at one of the most iconic places in Tromsø, the Ølhallen Pub.

Founded in 1877, it is the northernmost brewery in the world. It has a historic pub where you can taste unique beers inspired by the Arctic.

Other Things to Do in Oslo and Tromsø

If you have more time, here are some other things to do:

➡️ Oslo:

• Oslo Fjord. A stunning fjord filled with charming islands, each offering unique character, beaches, and hiking trails.
• Ekebergparken Sculpture Park. This park merges nature with art, showcasing sculptures by renowned artists like Salvador Dali and offering stunning views of Oslo and the fjord.
• The Botanical Garden (Botanisk Hage). Established in 1814, it is the oldest scientific garden in Oslo, featuring over 7,500 plant species from around the globe, including a Viking garden.

➡️ Tromsø:

• Sami camps offer reindeer sleigh rides in winter. You can meet the indigenous Sámi people and learn about their culture, experiencing reindeer sleigh riding, an ancient Sámi tradition.
• Sommarøy (Summer Island). It is a charming fishing village with white sandy beaches, perfect for scenic getaways. In summer, it experiences uninterrupted natural light, ideal for a midnight swim.
• Tromsø University Museum provides insights into Sami culture and the indigenous people of the Arctic. It features exhibits on Northern Lights research and Arctic archaeology, and it is the oldest scientific institution in Northern Norway.

Here, we end this adventure. Goodbye, Norway.

I hope you enjoyed this article.

Additional Information

? If you prefer to see them separated by continents, check them in Portfolios.

Alternatively, in the section Destinations, they are classified based on the type of trip:

• Amazing Experiences. It covers the most extensive and complete trips.
• Beach and Sea. For those who prefer quieter activities by the sea.
• City Breaks. Short trips with a single destination.

If you need any clarification, you can leave me a comment or fill out the contact form. I will be happy to help you ?

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