Plan an amazing trip to Norway
With an array of natural wonders on offer, a trip to Norway captivates all those who visit. Spoilt by all Mother Nature has to offer, it’s not possible to leave Norway without succumbing to its charm and beauty. While its black gold has allowed Norwegians to live in relative luxury, they certainly have not neglected to preserve their unique heritage: beautiful fjords, magical offshore islands, glaciers as far as the eye can see, sublime coastlines, privileged views of the northern lights and a rich and varied fauna where polar bears, reindeer and musk oxen live harmoniously side-by-side. Whatever you’re looking for, we offer tours, visits and all-inclusive or tailor-made holidays to help you explore the breath-taking beauty of Norway.
Paolo's tips, local guide
Best time to go to Norway
Despite its geographical location, Norway enjoys a temperate climate thanks to the warm Gulf Stream currents. Temperatures can be extremely cold in winter (-35°C in some regions) and very hot in summer (+ 25°C) but the average summer temperature is around 18°C. The best period to visit is from June to August, while winter, due to its icy cold weather, is best avoided unless of course you want to see the aurora borealis.
If you want to see the northern lights and witness the red-pink skies synonymous with these seasons, then my favourite months are October and March. If you want to experience the midnight sun and low season prices, then the May-June period is your best bet.
What to see and what to do in Norway
Paolo answers your most frequently asked questions
Given that any possible excursions are dependent on the season, my advice is to arrive at Bodø airport and take the 4-hour boat journey from Hurtigruten to my village, Stamsund (in the Lofoten archipelago). It’s also possible to fly to Harstad/Narvik airport in Evenes, rent a car and then drive the 230 km to Stamsund. Here you can rent a Rorbu cabin, old fisherman’s cabins built on stilts that have been renovated for tourists.
During the ''light'' period (March-October) activities are varied: from hiking in the mountains, for varying levels of ability, to fishing trips (cod, coalfish, halibut), kayaking, sea eagle safaris and visits to Trollfjord by boat. You can also spend a day in the southwest to discover some of the beautiful villages, such as Nusfjord, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Why not also consider spending a day in the north of the country to see the villages of Henninsvær, with its array of craft shops, and Kabelvåg, the oldest village in northern Norway.
After a lovely week here you can move on to the north, either by boat or rental car, and visit the Vesterålen islands, spending a couple of days in the port towns of Stø or Andenes where whale-watching excursions are available. From here you can travel onwards to Tromsø, the Paris of the North, and enjoy the museums, local excursions and nightlife. In summer, the midnight sun shines all day long, meaning there are things to do 24 hours a day.
In the ''dark'' period (November-February), I organise trips to see the Northern Lights and sea excursions to watch orcas on the Vesterålen Islands. Dog sled trips are also possible in the Tromsø area.
No, there’s nothing to worry about.
It’s always best to use professional companies when arranging bus/boat excursions to see whales, eagles, orcas and the aurora borealis.
Snow can be found between October and May, but the main roads are regularly cleared by snow ploughs. Rental cars are fitted with studded winter tyres.
Different types of fish, prawns, king crab, salt cod puree, lamb and…..whale.
RORBU cabins, old fishermen’s cabins, are newly renovated with underfloor heating, internet, and sometimes even jacuzzis.
Given the low population density in most of the villages, shops are almost non-existent. All villages have their own blacksmith, glassmaker and carpenter; it is possible to find some souvenirs to take home: carved painted wooden objects, Scandinavian goblins, reindeer skins ....
4G WiFi internet access is free in most bars and restaurants and also in fishermen's cottages. Public telephones have disappeared, although you will find telephones available at all hotel, holiday village and chalet reception desks.
-The high costs for tourists
- The climate, which is not always favourable for some activities
- The picturesque wooden villages
- The unspoilt nature
- Un voyage dans les magnifiques fjords,
- Travelling through the fjords
- The midnight sun