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15 Bucket List Things To Do In Norway: What To Do In Norway? 2024

Norway, with its breath-taking landscapes and unique things to do, beckons adventure seekers from around the world. While the country boasts countless wonders, we've created the top 15 bucket list items that you absolutely cannot miss. Whether you're travelling Norway on a budget like us or happy to spend a little more we have something for you. And guess what? This is just the tip of the iceberg—our Ultimate Norway Bucket List Guide (a downloadable PDF with printable list) has 76 extraordinary Norge adventures waiting for you!


So, let's get into it, what can you do in Norway on a budget? And what are the best things to do in Norway?


Contents

Over 70 hand-picked adventures and things to see, checkout our Full Bucket List


Bucket List Norway Adventures

A country with endless hikes, waterfalls and scenic views, Norway is one of our favourite countries in the world. We've put together a Complete Bucket List Norway Guide, to help you plan your dream trip to the land of the trolls and giants!


Witness the enchanting dance of the Northern Lights. The magical green and pink lights are caused by charged particles colliding with the Earth's atmosphere, creating a mesmerising display that is best enjoyed in Norway's remote, light-pollution-free areas. The best time to see the Northern lights is between October and February.

It also comes with a printable list to tick off your adventures
Northern Lights Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Drive To Nordkapp

A great one if you have a motorhome or camper. Stand at the northernmost point of mainland Europe, where the vast Arctic Ocean meets the sky. Nordkapp offers a surreal experience of the midnight sun in summer and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in winter, making it a year-round bucket list destination.

This Norway Bucket List also has a printable list to tick off your adventures!
Nordkapp Northernmost point Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Wild Swim in a Glacial Lake

Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of a glacial lake for a truly invigorating experience. These pristine lakes, often surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature while taking a refreshing dip in some of the world's purest waters. My favourite was Lovatnet. A glacial lake so icy it takes your breath away. You can swim in the green waters underneath the glacier. This place is truly magical and one of my favourite in Norway.

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Lovatnet Glacial Lake Swim Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Paddle through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Kayaking allows you to get up close to this natural giant. We managed to do this in our inflatable kayaks but you can also get guided tours that will take you down to the famous Seven Sister's Waterfall.


Visit Saltstraumen

Witness the world's strongest tidal current at Saltstraumen, a natural phenomenon near Bodø. This is a great place for fishing if that is your thing!

From Northern Lights to Spotting Moose, find out The Best Things To Do In Norway
Saltstraumen Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Unlock The Full Norway Bucket List

Ready to elevate your bucket list experience? Get your Ultimate Norway Bucket List Guide with Printable List Now


Norwegian Bucket List Guide downloadable PDF

Polar Plunge

Embrace your adventurous side with a polar plunge into the icy Arctic waters. This daring activity is not only a test of courage but also a unique way to immerse yourself in the Arctic environment.


Svalbard Polar Plunge in the artic circle Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Stay In An Ice Igloo

While most of the items on our list are free this one is more expensive. Experience the magical atmosphere of sleeping in an ice igloo, surrounded by the stunning winter landscapes of Norway. Cosy up in a thermal sleeping bag and witness the Northern Lights dance across the sky.

Over 70 hand-picked adventures and things to see, checkout our Full Bucket List
Sleep in an ice hotel Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Sleep in a Cabin in the Woods

This for us was at the top of our list. You can read about our experience of staying in Badstua here. The remote cabin was exactly what we were looking for and it was free! Experience the tranquillity of the Norwegian wilderness by spending a night in a cosy (but sometimes creepy) cabin.



Hike Behind a Waterfall

Venture behind the cascading waters of a waterfall for a unique perspective. Norway's landscape is dotted with majestic waterfalls, offering an opportunity to get close to the power and beauty of nature. We visited Storsæterfossen in Geiranger. A steep 40-minute climb leads up to a stunning viewpoint. Follow the steps down and you can walk behind Storsæterfossen waterfall. You can feel the immense power of the waterfall as you get slightly splashed. A muddy but rewarding hike!


Tip: this hike was really busy so if you’re in a camper head up early before the cruise ships arrive.



Underwater Restaurant

We didn't fit this into our budget but we have heard great things. An experience we are sure is unforgettable. Indulge in a culinary delight at an underwater restaurant with panoramic views of marine life.

Find out all of our recommendations in our Full Norway Bucket List
Underwater restaurant dining Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Sauna on a Fjord

Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional sauna while enjoying the breath-taking views of a fjord. Sauna culture is deeply ingrained in Norwegian traditions, and combining it with the stunning fjord scenery creates a truly immersive wellness experience. We found a great little Sauna in Fjærland on the glacial lake. The perfect backdrop to relax and slow down.


Visit a sauna on a fjord Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Segla Hike in Senja

Conquer the heights with a breath-taking hike to Segla in Senja, a mountain known for its distinctive sail-like shape. The panoramic views from the summit are a reward for the challenging ascent.

This Norway Bucket List also has a printable list to tick off your adventures!
Hike to segla in senja northern Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Norway is famous for its hikes. Of course Pulpit Rock, Trolltunga, and glaciers should be on your list but this less known hike is well worth a mention. After hiking up a mountain for around an hour you come to a cave system which can explore independently. Inside the cave is a stunning waterfall in what's nicknamed the Troll's Church. This is a hike that is otherworldly and one not to be missed.


Tip: Take a torch as the caves are pitch black.


Moose Observation Tower

Observe these majestic creatures from a specially designed observation tower. Get a close-up view of moose in their natural habitat, an experience that showcases the unique wildlife of Norway. If this is out of your budget you can pop over the boarder to Sweden and head to a Moose Farm. We can recommend Dalsands Mosse Ranch.


Moose observation tower Norway Bucket List Thing To Do

Visit Booktown - Fjærland

Lose yourself in the charm of Fjærland, a town where books take centre stage. Book lovers will find paradise in this picturesque village, home to numerous bookstores and a stunning backdrop of mountains and glaciers.

From Northern Lights to Spotting Moose, find out The Best Things To Do In Norway


Full Norway Bucket List

These 15 experiences are just a taste of what awaits you in Norway. But wait, there's more! Dive deeper into the wonders of Norway with our comprehensive Ultimate Norway Bucket List Guide. From Arctic adventures to cultural discoveries, this guide is your key to unlocking the full potential of your Norwegian journey. We include hikes, food to try, animals to see and the best experiences in Norway. Whether you're on a budget or treating yourself to a trip of a lifetime there is something for everyone on the PDF list.


Ready to elevate your bucket list experience? Get your Ultimate Norway Bucket List Guide with Printable List Now


Norwegian Bucket List Guide downloadable PDF

Top Things To Do In Norway 

Norway, the land of giants and trolls, meandering roads, epic fjords and much more is a prime destination for a road trip, holiday or cruise. After spending 2 months exploring this Nordic country, we share our top picks from our time on the Scandinavian road.


Top Hike: Pulpit Rock 

An outcrop extends over a deep fjord, as you stand on the edge of Preikestolen you’re above the clouds and high on life. A 3 hour trek that is worth every minute. 


Epic Viewpoint: Rampestreken 

Rampestreken is a 20m extended platform looking out over mountains and fjords, one section is even mesh so you can see the drop right below you. You can hike or catch a cable car here. 


Top Waterfall: Trollkirka or Låtefossen 

It was too hard to choose just one, so I’ve gone for two. Trollkirka is a waterfall inside a marble cave which involves hiking to a Trolls Church, and Låtefossen which is right on the road but just as spectacular. 


Off The Beaten Track: Sleep in a Cabin In The Woods 

Norway is a country of adventure, and what better way to experience this than sleeping in a traditional hiking or hunting cabin. 


Norway top hikes and waterfalls

Other Blogs On Norway 



Essential Travel Items You Need For Norway

Lifestraw filtered water bottle, great for backpacking asia

Lifestraw - Filtered Water Bottle  Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind, plus you’re helping the environment!

Jungle formula mosquito spray, great for backpacking asia

Sturdy Hiking Poles Norway is a hiker's destination and with challenging hikes such as Pulpit Rock, we were glad to have our poles. We would also recommend reliable Hiking Boots.

Water shoes, great for backpacking asia

Rechargeable Head Torch If you’re visiting in the shoulder seasons or winter a head torch is a must. The days are short and if you’re camping this is essential.

Portable charge worldwide, great for backpacking asia

Universal Travel Adaptor With Multiple USBs Life while travelling will never be the same again! Charge multiple devices all at once in any country... game changer.



Top Recommended Norway Activities & Excursions


Top Tips For Travelling Norway

If you’re visiting the Norway here are our top travel tips:


  • Book flights in advance - they can become expensive if you leave it last minute. Also don't forget Apple Airtags to track your luggage

  • Norway is vast, take it slow - don't feel the need to see everything if you only have a short time. Instead spend the time you have discovering the beauty and culture of the area you’re in… plus then you have an excuse to come back. 

  • Hire a car or motorhome - in our opinion this is the best way to really see Norway. You get to drive down hairpin roads such as Trollstigen and explore the lesser known nooks of the country.  

  • Be prepared for changing weather - it can be sunny one minute and snowing the next so pack for a range of temperatures and remember “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothing.”



Travel Tools To Help You Plan

These are some of the travel tools we love and use daily, by booking through our links you support our blog and help us grow, thank you.



Thank you for reading and enjoy your Norway adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!


*Some links in this article are affiliate meaning we may earn a small commission with no extra cost to you! It helps grow the blog so thank you for supporting us. A big thanks to Canva Media for some of the images.

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