In 2017 Norway was named the happiest country in the world, based on criteria such as caring, freedom, generosity, honesty, health, income and good governance. If Norway, with its magnificent landscapes, historic cities, friendly population and endless options for enjoying nature, isn’t on your bucket list for must-see destinations, you might want to consider adding it.

Here are 8 things you’ll want to experience when you travel to Norway:

1. Northern Lights. Also known as aurora borealis, the northern lights are a colorful display of dancing lights in the sky. The northern towns in Norway are great places to see them and the best months are September, October, March or April.


2. Troll Tongue. Called “Trolltunga” in Norwegian, this cliff – 2,300 feet above the lake Ringedalsvatnet – is one of the most amazing views you’ll ever see. It’s a 10-12 hour round trip hike, so it’s no easy feat and should be reserved for experienced hikers, but if you fit that description and feel up to the challenge, the reward at the end is spectacular.


3. Cities. From the modern bustling city to the quaint fairytale village, there are several stand-outs in Norway to consider exploring. Oslo, the capital, is one of Europe’s fasting growing cities. Its cutting-edge architecture and sculpture parks make it visually stunning. And the relatively new café culture and hipster neighborhoods have injected an exciting energy into the city. Other cities worth visiting include Trondheim, Norway’s oldest major city (1,020 years old!), known for its creative and high-tech culture; Henningsvaer with its gingerbread-looking houses neatly placed in a row along the water; Alesund, another charming coastal town with views for days and incredible hiking opportunities; and Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords with a big foodie scene and Instagram-worthy colorful wooden houses.


4. Fjords. Formed during the Ice Age, fjords are created when the ice cuts through mountains and creates a passage of water. This exquisite sight is usually surrounded by waterfalls and is home to a variety of wildlife such as seals, whales and eagles. They are the perfect place for camping, kayaking and hiking.


5. Wildlife. Norway is home to one of the few places in the world where you can see polar bears in the wild, in the Svalbard archipelago. Classified as a vulnerable species, polar bears are amazing to see, but never forget they are wild and dangerous animals, so you should only view them with an experienced guide.


6. Traditional red fishermen’s cabins. These historic cabins are usually located on remote beaches and some are available to tour or stay in overnight. For a simple vacation with peace and calm, many Norwegians spend their holidays on the lake in these restored cabins.


7. Summer skiing. Norway is an ideal place to ski in the winter, but it’s also possible (and incredible!) to ski in the summer. Some ski resorts are open only in the summer. Don’t forget your sunscreen!


8. Stave churches. When you think of beautiful old churches in Europe, you might think of ones made of stone. In Norway, there are many stave churches, which are intricately designed and made of wood. One of the most well-known is the Heddal Stave Church, which was constructed in the 13th century.

In 2018, Norway will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of their king and queen, and the Oslo Opera House is celebrating its 10th birthday, so it’ll be a celebratory year. Maybe this is the year you visit Norway!

Contact a AAA Travel Consultant  to help you plan a visit to this spectacular country.

Photo credit: Yuriy Garnaev