Norway trip | Magical Norway with luxury cruise

Situated in the administrative centre of Gamvik Municipality in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway; the village of Mehamn is idyllically set on the small Vedvik peninsula which forms part of the greater Nordkinn Peninsula fringed by the Barents Sea. This small fishing village is rich in history and offers visitors an array of wonderful activities to enjoy. Visitors can hike to Cape Nordkinn, which is the true northernmost point of mainland Europe, or jump on tour on an 'Odd Tore', a 60-foot traditional wooden Norwegian fishing vessel. Other highlights include: the town of Gamvik, Slettnes lighthouse, Kinnarodden and the true pearl of the North. Don't miss the chance to spot dolphins and whales, view the midnight sun, or kayak on the Barent's Sea.

Hammerfest, located on Norway's northernmost coast, is set among mountains covered in green meadows in summer and white with snow in winter. Visitors can look forward to a range of activities, such as soaking up the sun at a harbour-side café and strolling through the charming city centre, playing a round of golf, or going hiking and mountain biking along the coastal paths. In winter, snowmobiling, skiing, ice fishing and dog sledding are popular leisure activities. Hammerfest is also an excellent place to see the magical northern lights - one of the most beautiful natural light shows in the world.

The city of Harstad is located on Norway's second largest island, Hinnoya, and is the gateway to Vesteralen and Lofoten Islands. It is a great base from which to explore the picturesque surroundings. Visitors can look forward to a range of cultural attractions, enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains, as well as fishing and kayaking under the midnight sun. Gourmets can indulge in the many top restaurants. Ocean lovers can take an exciting whale-watching safari and enjoy diving in the Norwegian Sea. Lucky visitors can catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights, enjoy excellent skiing in winter and go island-hopping on a collection of Norwegian islands.

Situated in the Sortland Municipality in Norway's Nordland county, the town of Sortland is set on the east coast of the island of Langoya, along the Sortlandsundet strait. Dubbed 'The Blue City of the north', the entire town was painted blue in honour of its maritime heritage and fishing history. Bjorn Elvenes, a local artist, inspired the idea to put this once unassuming town on the map. Visitors come here to see how the town has been transformed, enjoy some excellent cod fishing opportunities from Norway's 13th-longest bridge, and hikers can follow the trails up to the Steiroheia Mountain peak to soak up incredible views overlooking coastal scenery. Don't miss the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the elusive northern lights of Norway.

Set in Nordland county in Northern Norway, the town of Stokmarknes serves as the administrative centre of Hadsel Municipality. Situated on the northern coast of the island of Hadseloya as well as on the small, neighbouring island of Boroya, Stokmarknes is surrounded by Norway’s natural beauty. The famous Hurtigruten coastal ferry service was founded in Stokmarknes in 1893 and still has its headquarters there today. Visitors can learn about maritime history at the Coastal Express Museum. Don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Hadsel Church, located just 5 kilometres east of Stokmarknes. Other highlights include the Boroy Bridge and Hadsel Bridge, which connect Stokmarknes to the island of Langoya to the north. Don’t miss the chance to sample local Norwegian cuisine, witness the magical Northern Lights and see the midnight sun in summer.

Located on the southern coast of the Norwegian island of Austvagoya, and part of the Lofoten archipelago, the port city of Svolvaer is set among a spectacular backdrop of striking mountains and the dazzling Vestfjorden Sea. The town is a hub of activity in this quiet, remote region and provides an excellent base from which to explore the beautiful surroundings. Gourmets can enjoy scrumptious dishes in the many excellent restaurants, while history lovers can enjoy a tour of the fascinating Lofoten Krigsminne Museum, which provides insight into the events surrounding World War II. |There are also opportunities for rock climbing in the region. Bird lovers will enjoy the beautiful species in the area, especially the population of mighty sea eagles are spectacular to see.

Situated in the Vestvagoy Municipality in Nordland county, Norway. The town of Stamsund is located on the southern side of the island of Vestvagoy in the Lofoten archipelago, along the Vestfjorden. This little Norwegian fishing port is situated just 12 kilometres east of the town of Leknes. Stamsund is known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to the Norland Puppet Theatre. This popular tourist destination dotted with charming traditional fishermen's shacks, called Rorbuer. In winter, visitors can look forward to excellent skiing opportunities at the ski resort in Stamsund, which runs between January and March. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the network of hiking trails that traverse the surrounding mountains, enjoy fishing in the ocean and collection of lakes that dot the region and view the otherworldly midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter.

Sandnessjøen is a nature- and history-rich Norwegian town located ten kilometres from Sandnessjøen airport on the breathtaking Helgeland Coast. Encircled in misty mountains, decorated by fjords and lapped by pristine ocean waters, the area is a treasure-trove of outdoor adventures. Innumerable hiking trails wind along grassy headlands and through the ancient Seven Sister crags, cycling routes pass atmospheric beaches and the pretty harbour, and idyllic coastal campsites make the most of the fishing, boating and swimming opportunities on offer. Delve into Viking history, pop into medieval churches, and make sure to visit the awe-inspiring Petter Dass museum at Alstahaug (dedicated to the life and works of the renowned priest and poet), housed in an impressive Avante-Garde building. Indulge in a day of hydro-therapy (and more) at the Civic Centre.

Located on a peninsula on the mainland of Norway, along the Nesnakroken strait, the village of Nesna lies just north of the Ranfjorden and south of the Sjona fjord. It serves as the administrative centre of Nesna Municipality in Nordland county, Norway. The Helgeland coast's spectacular archipelago is home to one of the world's largest populations of sea eagles, Northern Europe's largest bird of prey with an impressive wingspan of up to 2.5 metres. It serves as a great base from which to explore the nearby islands of Handnesoya, Hugla, and Tomma. Sample local Norwegian cuisine, soak up the spectacular landscapes and view the magical Northern Lights.

Spread over Kirkelandet, Innlandet, and Nordlandet Islands Norway's Nordmøre region, Kristiansund is an enthralling city known for its spectacular scenery, exciting culinary scene, exceptional architecture, and wonderful opera house. Coastlines include rugged rocky shores, pretty coves, and mesmerising fjords passing fascinating historic sites. Many argue that this is one of the top locations for architecture in the country, with a unique aspect that most of what is seen today was built after significant destruction in the second world war. Those interested in structures will also want to traverse the famous Atlantic Road, a magnificent feat of construction and the perfect platform for taking in the views, enjoying whale watching, or joining the locals in fishing. Make sure to try the local Clipfish and Bacalao, and visit the oldest opera house in the country.

Perched on the Romsdal Peninsula of More og Romsdal county, Norway, Molde is a magnificent destination of breathtaking vistas known for its vibrant jazz scene and flourishing, exquisite roses. Visitors can take in a total of 222 mountain peaks from the views at Varden (which is set a mere ten-minute car trip from the city centre) enticing photographers and artists to the destination. Decorated with numerous gorgeous rose gardens, the town was given the nickname 'town of roses' in the early twentieth century. The oldest annual jazz festival in Europe is held here - the Molde International Jazz Festival - creating a wonderful celebratory atmosphere and bustling artist population. Architecture enthusiasts should make sure to visit the mesmerising glass and stone Kjell Kosberg.

Known as the 'gateway to the fjords', Bergen is a delightful, picturesque city surrounded by the fjords of Norway's west coast and seven spectacular forested mountains. The landscapes offer an incredible wonderland for outdoor sports; for many visitors, however, the highlight is simply wandering the narrow, cobbled streets, having a drink in the bustling cafés, enjoying the excellent local food and mingling with the friendly locals. There is plenty to thrill history buffs with a plethora of museums and rows of beautifully preserved small wooden Hanseatic houses painted in an array of cheerful colours. With its dynamic cultural life, excellent range of restaurants, impressive art galleries and vibrant nightlife, it is almost impossible not to fall in love with this enchanting 'trebyen' (wooden city).

Located in north-eastern Norway, Kirkenes is a small town about 400 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle near the border with Russia and Finland. It is the capital of the Barents region and a gateway to Norway's picturesque east. The undeniable highlight of this charming town is the opportunity to view the breathtakingly beautiful Aurora Borealis, or northern lights, as they dance through the night sky. Visitors can look forward to a wide range of activities, including learning about local history at the Borderland Museum and visiting the Snowhotel made out of fresh snow every winter. Don't miss the chance to see the Russian Soldiers' Memorial that commemorates the area's liberation from Nazi occupation. Other popular activities include: king crab safaris, ice fishing, quad biking, dog sledding, snowmobiling, river trips and hiking.

The small, bustling town of Tromso is located in the northernmost part of Norway, on a small island 349 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. Visitors are often surprised by Tromso: sophisticated art, fascinating history, sophisticated cuisine and noisy nightlife. Despite its northern location, the city enjoys a relatively temperate climate and numerous attractions. Most important are the arctic aquarium, home to bearded seals and a panoramic cinema showing films about the arctic wilderness. In addition, Tromso is also home to the world's northernmost botanical gardens, with arctic and alpine plants from all over the world and the Science Centre of Northern Norway, home to the country's largest planetarium. For panoramic views of the striking natural surroundings and the chance to see the mesmerising northern lights, take a ride on the city's popular cable car.

They have been called 'the islands of the gods' and 'the most beautiful place on earth' - and if you visit the Lofoten archipelago, you will realise why. Located just off the coast of northern Norway, this is a wonderland of steep, jagged peaks rising from a cobalt blue ocean. In winter, the mountains are covered in snow and the white sandy beaches glisten under rain showers. The summer months bring meadows of wildflowers and deep green valleys. For lovers of outdoor activities, the Lofoten archipelago is a veritable parade. You can go hiking, climbing, fishing, kayaking, horse riding, skiing or even whale watching, and if you are lucky, you can even catch a glimpse of the northern lights here. For a cultural experience, visit the picturesque fishing village of Nusfjord with its 19th-century wooden huts on the waterfront under rugged cliffs.

Located in central Norway on the southern shore of the Trondheimfjord, Trondheim is a fascinating historic city known as Norway's cultural, religious and technological centre. With its wide streets lined with bright wooden warehouses and stylish boutiques, cafés and restaurants, Trondheim offers a feast for the eyes and taste buds. The city's main attraction is the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, widely regarded as the most spectacular church in Scandinavia. Other must-sees include the National Museum of Decorative Arts, the historic fortress island of Munkholmen and the medieval Archbishop's Palace, which houses the incredible exhibition Norwegian Crown Regalia. Night owls will enjoy the vibrant, youthful nightlife, while outdoor and ski enthusiasts will enjoy the range of ski slopes in the city's beautiful surroundings.

Norway forms the western and northernmost part of the Scandinavian Peninsula and conjures up images of majestic fjords, marauding vikings, the icy landscape of the Arctic Circle and rich mystical folklore. The winter months offer visitors to the north the opportunity to traverse vast tundra by dogsled or catch a glimpse of the incredible aurora borealis, which colours the night sky. Summer brings the amazing spectacle of the midnight sun. Visitors can enjoy year-round boat trips to the Svalbard archipelago to visit seabird colonies or wander among the towering cliffs of the turquoise fjords. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a polar bear. This fascinating country is also home to a whole host of attractive, cosmopolitan and world-class metropolises that are well worth a visit.

Troms was previously its own province, but has recently been merged into one with Finnmark. It lies well above the Arctic Circle, allowing visitors to this area to experience the northern lights in winter and the midnight sun in summer. The capital of the province is Tromsø.

The northern reaches of Norway are known as Northern Norway. It is comprised of the two northernmost counties: Nordland and Troms og Finnmark. Stretching from mainland Europe's northernmost point near the North Cape to the Helgeland region in the south, the region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, the rich traditions of the ancient Sami people, and variety of activities. Visitors can view the midnight sun, spot the northern lights in the clear night sky, or jump on a whale safari. Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional reindeer stew or world-class seafood such as king crab, enjoy skiing or dog sledding in winter and surfing or hiking in the summer. Other highlights include the magnificent mountains Torghatten in Helgeland, Møysalen in Vesterålen, or the Lyngen Alps.

Located on Norway's breathtaking southern coast, surrounded by the lush, rolling hills of the Marka region and the rippling waters of the Oslofjord, Oslo is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts, with a diverse range of both winter and summer activities on offer. But Mother Nature is not the only artist in this vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Norway's capital is also home to a rich and productive art community and is filled with world-class galleries, such as the amazing National Gallery Norway and the intriguing Munch Museum. Other popular attractions include the Viking Ship Museum, home to the world's best-preserved Viking ships. Also located in the Norwegian capital is the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Europe's largest open-air museum. Olso also excels in a unique culinary tradition.

Bjornevatn is located about eight kilometres south of Kirkenes in Finnmark province, close to the Russian border. It is a village with an interesting history and beautiful landscape. It is surrounded by lush green countryside, rolling hills and calm, clear blue fjords. It is peppered with hiking and cycling trails and is the perfect destination to explore this wild region of the country. Once a mining town, during World War II, thousands of people lived in the mines to protect themselves from the fighting above, and this is portrayed in the film Under a Stone Sky. Sports fans can enjoy games at the multi-purpose Sadness Stadium nearby.

Norway's traditional region of Akershus lies in the southern part of the country and borders on Sweden in one part. Arguably the top landmark of the area, after which it is named, Oslo's enthralling Akershus Festning is a must-see; where a Medieval castle, fortress, and other buildings stand watch over the harbour. Apart from the numerous well-known offerings of the capital, locations such as Asker and Sandvika provide thriving city centres known for their fantastic art galleries and excellent coffee, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes perfect for skiing, fjord activities and hiking. In the Follo area, just 20 minutes from Oslo, enjoy picturesque coastal towns, and in Romerike, head to the birthplace of the Norwegian constitution at the Eidsvoll 1814 visitor centre.

Nordland, situated in Northern Norway on the Scandinavian peninsula, is a county boasting both natural and historical riches. The Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park, known for its dramatic, glacier-filled scenes and rare Arctic Fox, is a must-see for nature lovers. At the UNESCO-listed Vega Archipelago, people managed to find a way to survive near-impossible conditions through the practices of fishing and eiderdown harvesting and continue to do so 1500 years later (Find out more at E-Huset Museum). Experience life as a Viking at the Lofotr Viking Museum in Vestvagoy, or delve into the life and works of renowned Medieval poet Petter Dass at the stunning avant-garde Petter Dass Museum in Sandnessjoen. Visitors wanting an adventure without the sweat of hiking or skiing should make sure to book the spectacular Nordland Railway trip from Bodo to Trondheim.

Set at the heart of Norway spreading out from the Norwegian Sea, the Sor-Trondelag region is blessed with an enticing combination of spectacular natural, historical and cultural drawcards. Delve into Viking heritage (this was one of their most important areas), see enthralling rock carvings at sites in Verdal, and discover the religious significance of Stilkestad in the country's past. The region continues to pay homage to its roots in the form of delicious traditional cuisine, especially in the city of Trondheim, where culinary enthusiasts can look forward to award-winning cheeses, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a smorgasbord of incredible coffee shops. Seven national parks, dense forests, fertile farmlands and awe-inspiring rivers offer a paradise of outdoor exploration. The river of Namsen, with its magnificent scenes and abundance of salmon, is a top destination for nature lovers.

Norway's magnificent Nord-Trondelag county is a rural, wild area dotted with several picturesque towns and villages in the northern part of Tondelag county, bordering Sweden and the Norwegian Sea. The site is famous for its rugged, diverse landscapes, which include photogenic fjords, pastoral scenes, and forests and mountains in the north. Several wonderful nature reserves are on offer. Two top choices include Blafjella-Skjaekerfjella National Park, where the culturally curious can visit the sacred sites of the Sami people, and the Borgefjell National Park to enjoy long, quiet hikes and spot the rare Arctic fox, as well as wolves, lynx, and bear. Cultural highlights of the county include the numerous ancient settlements, burial grounds, Neolithic cave artefacts and heritage architecture, such as the unique Tronderlag-style buildings.

Rorvik is located in the Norwegian province of Trondelag on the eastern side of the Vikna archipelago on the island of Inner-Vikna. This port town is known for its idyllic location and maritime charm. Surrounded by thousands of beautiful islands, Rorvik is a great base to explore the scenic area. There are more than 6,000 islands, islets and reefs to explore, interesting wooden buildings to view and a small-town atmosphere to enjoy. Visitors can also look forward to a range of activities, including boat trips, canoeing, kayaking and diving. Other highlights include fishing, tasting delicious locally caught cod and attending the cod festival held every March.