settled by the Vikings hundreds of years before its official founding in 1070 AD. The capital of Norway until 1300, it f
The Viking guide to
Norway
“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” - Henry Miller
Explore Norway on our Scandinavia & Northern Europe cruises
Discover Norway with Viking
Anyone who’s ever visited Norway will be hard pressed not to remark on its staggering natural beauty. From magnificent mountains and glorious glaciers, to craggy coastlines and quaint fishing villages, every corner of this extraordinary country has something to offer. For those wanting to stay active in nature, the opportunities are endless. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, cycling, and fresh water swimming,
whilst in the wintertime, dog-sledding is a popular pastime. If you’re hoping for a more relaxing experience, head to the coast for a spot of whalewatching - specifically humpback, sperm whales and orca - or make your way up towards the mountains to spot reindeer and Arctic foxes. Of course, when it comes to the wonders of nature, there’s no forgetting the spectacular Northern Lights. Find yourself in Tromsø between September and early April, and you might be lucky enough to
witness this breathtaking natural event. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Norway’s cities are a testament to the country’s reputation for innovation, efficiency and laid back urban sophistication. Combining wide open spaces and striking landmarks with a luxurious wellness spa, Oslo is an exercise in living well. Away from the capital, Bergen charms visitors with its stunning views, colourful 18th century buildings and rich sea trading roots.
Oslo
Perched upon the northernmost point of the Oslofjord, Oslo is surrounded by rolling emerald mountains. This artistic city is full of energy, and its people treasure their connection to the natural world.
Experience the scenic beauty of Oslo on our Majestic Fjords & Vibrant Cities cruise.
Oslo is home to many parks and open spaces. Numerous lakes, islands and forests blanket the countryside and coast. The city boasts a myriad of museums, cultural attractions, architectural sites and landmarks that celebrate Norway’s mastery of the sea. Its residents cherish a high quality of living, while its visitors enjoy an enlightening and enriching experience. Oslo is a global city designed to give its citizens room to stretch out and enjoy the great outdoors. This makes it an ideal place for a walk.
A world of wellness Oslo now hosts one of Scandinavia’s largest wellness centres. Located at
Kolbotn, just outside the city centre, The Well is 10.500 sqm of dreamlike paradise for adults. The impressive spa is made up of 11 pools, 15 saunas and steam rooms and over 100 showers. If it’s too cold to appreciate Oslo’s natural beauty, the spa even has its own waterfalls. The ritual of alternating hot and cold bathing runs deep in Nordic culture and forms the core of the LivNordic Spa wellness experience on board our ocean ships. Moving from the hot sauna or steam room to the cold detoxes the body, relaxes tired muscles and boosts circulation, leaving you feeling energised and composed. Its health-giving benefits are invaluable.
Saunter among the sculptures The Vigeland Sculpture Park is a wonderful place to start your explorations. All 212 sculptures in this green space were carved by beloved artist Gustav Vigeland to represent the various stages of the human condition. Its stunning centrepiece is a monolith of human figures that seem to be clamouring to the heavens.
Olympic glory North of Oslo, the Lillehammer Olympic site hosted the luge and bobsleigh events during the 1994 Winter Games. Its tracks stretch some 1,710 metres and include a harrowing vertical drop of 114 metres. The track is still in use today.
Bergen
Named as one of the secret capitals of Europe by Time magazine, the spirit of the Vikings lives on in this ancient Norwegian city known as the “Gateway to the Fjords”
Visit Bergen and tour scenic fjords, towns & cities on our Viking Homelands cruise.
Nestling between mountains and spectacular fjords, Bergen was settled by the Vikings hundreds of years before its official founding in 1070 AD. The capital of Norway until 1300, it flourished as a city of commerce and trade. For four centuries, merchants of the Hanseatic League worked on the Bryggen wharf, trading stockfish, and today the timber buildings that remain from the 18th century are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Protected from the North Sea’s winds by a collection of islands, Bergen’s climate is never overwhelmingly cold and the views from Mt. Fløyen nearby are breathtaking.
Must-sees With 62 original timber-clad cottages painted in ocher, oxblood, mushroom and white, Bryggen is one of Bergen’s major attractions, and the Hanseatic Museum provides a fascinating glimpse of medieval life in the days of the Hanseatic League. The museum is located in a building owned by a local merchant during the late 19th century and features a re-creation of a trading room, along with the merchant’s office and sleeping quarters for sailors and guests. Opposite Bryggen is Bergen Fortress, once the royal residence and one of the oldest and best-preserved castles in Norway. Many of its buildings date
back to the 1240s, and one excavation has revealed structures from 1100, remnants of the Viking Age. The spectacular 13th-century Håkon’s Hall is the largest surviving medieval secular building in Norway. It was once the palace of King Håkon IV, one of the most important kings in Norway’s history, and is now a museum. Near the pretty Festplassen is Grieg Hall, a remarkable feat of architecture dedicated to the composer, and the centerpiece of Bergen’s cultural district. Just north of the Festplassen are two of Bergen’s old churches, built in a style unlike anything elsewhere in Europe—Domkirken, Bergen Cathedral, and Korskirken. It is well worth exploring the surrounding countryside, too. You can travel over to the city’s southern suburbs and see Gamlehaugen, the residence of the Norwegian royal family in Bergen. More of a castle than a palace, the seclusion of the building and the untouched nature around it makes for a spellbinding journey; you really feel as though you have stepped back in time to the Middle Ages. The majestic Hardangerfjord, located near Bergen, is known for its stunning Vøringsfossen waterfall and the 78-square mile Folgefonna glacier, the third largest on Norway’s mainland. Also, just outside Bergen, you can visit Troldhaugen, the garden house where Grieg lived for 22 years and composed many of his most renowned works.
For the best vista of Bergen, take the funicular railway (Fløibanen) up Mt. Fløien to 320m above sea level. From here, you can see Bryggen, the harbour and the nine-mile-long Byfjorden.
Shopping There are a lot of stores in Bergen. For distinctly Norwegian souvenirs, including trolls, ceramics, knitted sweaters and silver, head for Bryggen. Norway is known for its innovative design, and at Røst (Bryggen 15) you will find collectable design pieces and gifts for the home.
Eating From freshly made fish dishes to the cinnamon buns, Bergen is a feast for the taste buds. A glass of aquavit (Scandinavian vodka flavoured with herbs) is, of course, a must. Another delicacy worth trying is kjøttboller—meatballs seasoned with ginger and nutmeg, served with mashed or boiled potatoes and drizzled with a cream sauce or gravy. Christmastime in Scandinavia is a truly magical event. Gløgg and gingerbread are essential ingredients—not least on each advent, the four Sundays leading up to Christmas Eve. The weekly countdown is marked by the lighting of a candle on a four-candle candelabra while having adventsfika.
Stavanger
Steeped in rich Norwegian antiquity, Stavanger is a must for history enthusiasts. The best place to begin exploring is in the beautiful old quarter, Gamle Stavanger, which is comprised of 173 wooden buildings from the turn of the 18th century.
See spectacular Stavanger and much more on the Viking Shores and Fjords cruise. Twinned with Houston, Texas, and the Scottish city of Aberdeen, Stavanger is renowned in Scandinavia for its prominence in the oil industry. Unlike the other two cities though, this Nordic wonder isn’t home to any high-rise buildings. A port city, Stavanger is quaint, historic and very pleasing to the eye - especially in the summer months.
Top tip: Pay a visit to the award-winning Norwegian Petroleum Museum, which
tells of the dangers of offshore oil drilling—considered an important industry for the local economy.
preparation, animal care and crafts.
Another highlight is Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, jutting out nearly 2,000 feet above the fjord. One of Norway’s most famous natural attractions, it can be visited by a cruise on the Lysefjord.
When it comes to food, make sure you take advantage of Stavanger’s cafe culture. Serving soups, open sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas, Renaa Xpress Sølvberget is a great place to stop for lunch. Their sister branch, Renaa Matbaren, is more of an evening establishment, and the menu includes a good selection of classic, hearty dishes with an added bit of Nordic flare.
There’s a Children’s Museum, and Jernaldergarden, a live exhibition in the form of an Iron Age farm. South of Stavanger town centre, the farm offers a real insight into life in the period, as visitors can witness displays of food
Food
Flåm
Nestled in the inland mountains of Norway is the charming village of Flåm. World-renowned for its breathtaking setting, the village is also the starting point of the Flåm Railway, a 12-mile train journey that takes travellers into the stunning Norwegian wilderness, past mountains, rivers, waterfalls and farms that embody the beauty of the country.
Discover breathtaking Flåm on our Iceland’s Majestic Landscapes cruise. On account of its popularity, Flåm is best visited off-peak during the autumn or spring, when the small village won’t be quite as busy. Nevertheless, whatever the time of year, it’s an ideal destination for travellers who love idyllic countryside and awe-inspiring natural wonders. There’s a good selection of local trails and walks, and bikes can be rented if you’d rather explore on wheels than on foot.
Top Tip: “Be sure to take a trip on the Flåm railway. You’ll be greeted by blossom at the bottom and thick snow at the top.”
Food Flåm Bakery in the village serves a scrumptious selection of freshly made pastries, cakes and traditional sweet treats. Be sure to stock up before heading out to explore
the surroundings - you won’t be disappointed. For something a little more substantial, hearty, filling classics dominate the menu at Bryggerestaurant. Fish and chips, burgers and a local dish of dried, salted cod - klippfisk - are served at this waterfront restaurant located by the marina.
Lofoten Islands
These islands are a place where the sculpting power of nature comes into sharp focus. This beautiful archipelago boasts outstanding natural attractions and excellent fishing. Separated from the mainland by a small network of bridges and tunnels, the main islands Austvågøy, Flakstadøy, Moskenesøy and Vestvågøy are best admired from the E10 road, where the view is simply incredible.
See the Lofoten Islands and experience nature like nowhere else on the Into the Midnight Sun cruise.
The islands are renowned in Norway for their long-standing fishing culture, as well as their magnificent beauty. Traditionally a very handson affair, the freshly caught fish are hung out to dry on large A-frame wooden racks (hjell) in the cold air and wind, then shipped to market.
time of year, but the summertime midnight sun illuminates their magnificent glory around the clock.
More recently, the fishing has been done from the traditional rorbuer, charming fishing cottages that hover above the waters on stilts. The Lofoten Islands also boast some spectacular sights for the green-fingered. The Arctic light gives the verdant pastures and pretty foliage a unique, atmospheric quality, the likes of which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
Must sees
The islands are beautiful place any
Though located 122 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the archipelago enjoys a temperate climate during the summer months.
Although the picturesque views are definitely one of the islands’ top attractions, the Viking Museum in Vestvågøy is a must for any history enthusiasts. Visit the exhibition itself for an insight into the Viking way of life, or set off to explore the surrounding hilltop trails that lead from the main building to a replica
Viking ship situated on the water. Henningsvær is home to Kaviar Factory, a factory turned contemporary art and design museum, and in Svolvær you’ll find Magic Ice, a sculpture space-come ice bar where you can admire the surroundings while warming up with a hot toddy.
Food On account of its rich fishing culture, the best thing to eat in Lofoten has got to be the local seafood. Whale carpaccio, citrus marinated halibut and trout caviar are some of the dishes on the menu at local restaurants, so any fish lovers will be spoilt for choice.
Geiranger
Cruising into the tiny village of Geiranger via the Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords, is a feast for the eyes, as it is surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, wild waterfalls and lush vegetation.
Geiranger is a passageway to some of Norway’s natural treasures. Discover it and much more on the Baltic Jewels & the Midnight Sun cruise. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Geirangerfjord is home to a number of spectacular waterfalls - the two most notable being de Syv Søstre (the seven sisters) and Friaren (the suitor). Facing one another across the fjord, the ‘suitor’ is said by locals to be attempting to ‘woo’ the sisters opposite.
Must sees
Food
Trollstigen mountain road is an absolute must for anyone with a sense of adventure. Winding its way up steep mountain sides, past stunning waterfalls and through lush greenery, the road, which opened back in 1936, is an extremely memorable way to reach the breathtaking fjord.
It’s no secret that Scandinavian people have a reputation for being extremely attractive - something that the locals in Geiranger attribute to their cuisine. Restaurants in the area pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients and unique flavour combinations that combine to bring nature right to your plate.
Molde
Located on the northern shore of the Romsdalsfjord, Molde is an alluring city with a wealth of natural charms. It is known as the “Town of Roses” for its beautiful manicured flower gardens. You may choose to visit the fascinating open-air Romsdal Museum, which offers examples of old Norwegian architecture, from log houses to a small chapel.
See Molde’s stunning fjords whilst journeying IB See Molde’s stunning fjords whilst journeying Baltic Jewels & the Midnight Sun. nto the Midnight Sun.
Activities and must sees Top sights and attractions include the Varden viewpoint, which sits 407 metres above sea level. The viewpoint offers a stunning panorama of the area which features no less than 222 snow-clad peaks, and if you’re in need of some sustenance, the Varden restaurant serves refreshments and light bites.
The city is also home to the oldest annual Jazz festival in Europe, so if you happen to be visiting in July, be sure to join in with some of the weeklong celebrations. Another highlight - particularly for football fans - is the Aker Stadium, a striking piece of architecture that is hard to miss if you’re in the city. Created by local designer Kjell Kosberg, the building’s exterior combines granite, stone and glass.
Just a 10 minute walk from the city centre, is the Romsdal Museum, one of the largest folk museums in Norway. Opened in 1912, the site displays a selection of traditional buildings and interiors typical of the region. Bygata, ‘the town street’, features a collection of pre-war style wooden town houses in the classic Nordic design. The museum is situated in a pretty park area, with a duck pond and benches for picnics in the summer.
Tromsø
The entrance to the Arctic, Tromsø is Norway’s third largest city and is the ideal destination to explore its region’s history. Visit its famous Arctic Cathedral with its striking triangular shape, or take a stroll through the pathways of the world’s northernmost botanical garden. You might also enjoy touring the Polaria Museum and Husky Center to learn about Arctic exploration and dog sledding.
Discover Tromsø as part of the In Search of the Northern Lights cruise.
Northern Lights and buzzing nights One of the best spots in Norway for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, Tromsø is a lively city, known among locals for its vibrant nightlife and student population. The place proudly boasts more pubs per capita than any other Norwegian city, so be sure to visit a few of them to ‘drink in’ the atmosphere.
Compared to some Norwegian towns, there’s a lot going on in Tromsø. As well as the Cathedral, highlights include Mack Brewery, which dates as far back as 1877. Producing a variety of beer, the traditional brewery hosts tours and tastings that are well worth booking in advance. For souvenirs, Blåst is an excellent choice. You can stand by to watch the glass blowers at work in this fascinating factory, and even pick
up a few handmade items to take home. Make sure there’s room in your suitcase! To witness a breathtaking view of the city, take the Fjellheisen cable car right to the peak of Mt Storsteinen, which stands at 421 metres tall. There’s a restaurant at the top, so you can enjoy a bite to eat as you marvel at the spectacular surroundings.
Honningsvåg
Wrap up warm, the northernmost city in Norway, Honningsvåg is the place to go if you’re looking for an invigorating climate. The quaint fishing village offers restaurants with superb seafood and is an ideal place to catch the spectacular northern lights.
The threshold of Arctic marvels, visit Honningsvåg on the Baltic Jewels and the Midnight Sun cruise.
Pay a rare visit to the remote port of Honningsvåg, which has a population of approximately 3,200. From this tiny outpost town on the island of Magerøya, journey to the top of North Cape or Nordkapp. This dramatic rocky plateau looks over the Barents Sea from a height of 305 metres.
If you’re feeling particularly energetic, you could take a guided hike up to the plateau - the breathtaking views are definitely worth the trip. Otherwise, opt for a stroll around one of the nearby fishing villages, where you’ll be able to spend some quality time with the local Sami people, perhaps enjoying a spot of lunch and a drink.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy a bird safari, spotting the likes of guillemots, cormorants, puffins and kittiwakes.
Bodø
Breathtaking Bodø acts as the northernmost point of the Kystriksveien Coastal Route. It’s also the northern terminus of Norway’s historic railway system and a jumping-off point for the Lofoten Islands.
Discover the lovely charm of Bodø on the In Search of the Northern Lights cruise.
German troops invaded Norway on April 9, 1940, and during the remainder of World War II, around 50,000 Norwegians fled to Sweden, which preserved an armed neutrality during both world wars. After the war, much of the country - including Bodø - needed to be rebuilt, and
Norway was one of the first countries to join the newly created United Nations.
History You will also have the chance to see the majestic Customs House,
Norwegian Aviation Museum, opened by King Harald V in 1994, and the Gothic Bodø Cathedral with its detached steeple and 10 tapestries from Nordland. Rønvikfjellet mountain affords magnificent views over snowcovered roofs.
Narvik
With spectacular fjords surrounded by mountains, Narvik’s landscape is extraordinary. Founded in 1902, the historic town enjoys clear skies, making it another great destination for observing the northern lights.
Experience the dramatic landscape of Narvik on the In Search of the Northern Lights cruise.
The beautiful city of Narvik enjoys clear skies, making it an ideal spot to take in the Aurora Borealis. Home to a former Viking settlement, Narvik is situated on the innermost shores of the Ofotfjorden. The small
town enjoys a dramatic backdrop, encircled by mountains in every direction and the glacier that spills right to the water’s edge. During your visit, you will learn how the ice-free port helped the town prosper as an exporter of Swedish iron ore. At the
Polar Park, you can see some of the residents of the far north, including Arctic wolves and foxes. You might also enjoy the wilderness during an Arctic sleigh ride or meet the native Sami people.
Culture
“The reverence you feel when you are sailing through the Fjords... Seeing the Northern Lights is an experience everyone should enjoy.”
Norway boasts extraordinary natural beauty, and appreciation for nature is deeply ingrained in Scandinavian culture. Many natives see being outdoors as the best way to relax and regularly make time to enjoy country walks, canoeing or fishing trips with friends and family. Being close to nature is enabled partly thanks to the relatively low population density, but in Norway, it is also enshrined in law. The allemansrätt (“everyman’s right”) gives anyone access to public and private land
(except gardens attached to a home) for recreational activities, including camping and foraging for wild berries or mushrooms. The Norwegian love of nature influences its interior design, which favours minimalism, natural light and open spaces furnished with organic materials such as wood and leather. Due to their close affinity with nature, conservation and green living are hugely important to many Scandinavians. In fact, Sweden and Norway regularly top the list of
the most environmentally friendly countries in the world. The Nordic lifestyle is all about balance and healthy living. Cycling to work, hiking, skinny dipping in the summer, eating oily fish, using the sauna, having family time—these are all just a natural part of life, and you fit in just enough of each. It helps that many companies encourage their employees not to work more than 37 hours a week.
The most important day in the Norwegian calendar is still May 17. This marks the anniversary of the date in 1814 when Norway signed its own constitution after 400 years of Danish rule. The main event is a parade where families wearing the national dress walk through cities and towns waving the Norwegian flag, usually to a marching band.
a law at all, but a poem from a book about a fictional town in Norway called Jante, written in 1933. In essence, its message is ‘don’t think you are better than anyone else’. It urges the individual not to stand out from the crowd. The idea is to play down personal success and wealth, choosing modesty - whilst rejecting opulence.
Norwegian life, individually and in society, is often said to be governed by Janteloven or Jantelagen - the law of Jante. Despite its name, it is not
Koselig - or Hygge as it’s commonly known, has become a buzzword for modern Scandi-inspired living, prompting millions all over the world
Koselig (cozy)
to go shopping for knitwear, make blueberry oatmeal and stock up on candles. But the essence of hygge is not about consumption, it is about quality of life. It is best described as the feeling of being content in any particular moment. A gathering of friends can be described as hygge, as can a bike ride through fresh fall leaves, reading a book wrapped up nice and warm in front of a roaring fire, or drinking tea from your favourite cup. Hygge is making everyday events special by appreciating them in their simplicity.
What’s your favourite shop?
“The Dale of Norway”
Perfect for skiing, hiking or relaxing and practicing your koselig Dale of Norway has long been recognised as the leading Norwegian knitwear brand. It is known for its outstanding quality and important innovations.
Dale of Norway has a long and proud history of environmentally friendly products and production. Its knitwear is made with 100 % natural wool, and the wool fibre is one of the most ecofriendly fibres available. Its production is actually powered by sustainable hydroelectric energy generated by
local waterfalls in the Dale Valley, and only environmentally friendly materials are used in the production of all knitwear. The village of Dale is nestled between beautiful steep mountains, waterfalls and fjords on the west coast of Norway.
Food Its wealth of natural resources means that Norway offers a Smörgåsbord of exceptionally fresh and delicious cuisine. This ranges from enticing open sandwiches to inviting deserts.
Suksessterte This traditional Norwegian tart—comprised of a This traditional Norwegian tart—comprised of a light, macaron base and rich, buttery custard light, macaron base andfor rich, buttery custard topping—is often baked family celebrations topping—is often baked for familyEaster. celebrations and is especially popular during Naturally and is especially popular during Easter. gluten-free, suksessterte does not vary Naturally much gluten-free, suksessterte not vary aside from the addition of does chocolate andmuch the aside from the addition of chocolate and the
type of nut used for the base. Its history can be type ofback nut used for theFinnmark, base. Its history traced to eastern where itcan wasbe traced back totypical easterncakes Finnmark, wherefrom it was one of several originating this one ofYou several typical originating from this area. can try this cakes delicious cake at Mamsen’s area.onYou canViking try this delicious Mamsen’s deli board ocean ships,cake and at here is the deli onfor board ships, and here is the recipe youViking to try ocean at home. recipe for you to try at home.
Serves 6–8
Method 1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
For the macaron base: 4 egg whites 5 oz (150 g) confectioners’ (icing) sugar 5 oz (150 g) almond flour (ground almonds)
For the vanilla cream filling: 3.5 oz (100 g) caster sugar 3.5 fl oz (100 ml) heavy (double) cream 1 tsp vanilla extract 4 egg yolks 3.5 oz (100 g) butter, room temperature
To garnish: 3.5 oz (100 g) sliced almonds, toasted
Whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks, then fold in the sugar and almond flour.
2. Butter a medium springform tin
and spoon in the mixture. Bake for about 30 minutes until the cake is golden. Allow to cool (do not worry if the cake cracks).
3. For the custard, whisk together the
sugar, cream and vanilla in a saucepan over a medium heat. Gently bring to the boil, then strain over the egg yolks, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Allow to cool.
4. Whisk the butter into the cold custard, then smooth over the macaron base. Garnish with the toasted almonds.
Gløgg Gløgg is an essential part of Christmas in Gløgg is Similar an essential part of Christmas Norway. to mulled wine but within a Norway. Similar to mulled wine but with afestive Scandinavian twist, it’s has a deliciously Scandinavian twist, it’sinhas a deliciously fragrance. Serve warm smaller glasses festive with fragrance. warm in smaller glasses with raisins andServe almonds. raisins and almonds.
Serves: 4
Ingredients 1 bottle red wine (quality doesn’t matter) 1-2 sticks cinnamon 5g dried root ginger 5g dried Seville orange peel (or other orange if you can’t get Seville 7 green cardamom pods 15-16 whole cloves 80g/3oz sugar
To serve Flaked almonds and raisins Splash of either vodka, aquavit, rum or cognac (optional)
Method 1. Pour the wine into a pan, add the
spices and heat to around 80C/176F, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
2. Remove from the heat and leave to infuse for at least an hour
3. Strain the mixture and return the
gløgg to the bottle – use a funnel to make life easier for yourself. The wine can be kept for around a week.
4. To serve, pour the wine into a saucepan and heat it.
5. Place a few flaked almonds and raisins in the bottom of your serving cups, and pour the glögg over the mixture.
6. If you want to give your glögg a
kick, add a splash of either vodka, aquavit, rum or cognac just after you’ve reheated the wine.
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Your memories For full details of Viking Ocean cruises to Norway visit: https://www.vikingcruises.co.uk/oceans/destinations/norway
