East Norway Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural attractions, food and drink scene, best things to do, hiking/biking routes, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options in East Norway with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to East Norway

Located in the Nordic countries of Europe, East Norway is a must-visit destination for travelers who are looking to experience the beauty of nature and the cultural heritage of Norway. This region is surrounded by the picturesque landscape of mountains, forests, and fjords, which makes it a perfect place for outdoor adventures. In addition, East Norway is home to some of the most historic and culturally significant attractions in Norway.

List of Places to Visit in East Norway

East Norway is a vast area that is home to countless attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top places to visit in this region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

East Norway is home to many culturally significant museums and historical sites that offer an insight into the country’s rich heritage and culture. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • The Viking Ship Museum, Oslo
  • The Munch Museum, Oslo
  • The Heddal Stave Church, Notodden
  • The Norwegian Mining Museum, Kongsberg
  • Norsk Folkemuseum, Oslo

Natural Attractions of East Norway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Norway is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and wilderness adventures. From scenic hikes to exhilarating water sports, you can find it all in East Norway. Some of the most famous natural attractions of East Norway include:

  • Jotunheimen National Park
  • Rondane National Park
  • Hallingskarvet National Park
  • Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park
  • The Geirangerfjord

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Norway

East Norway is renowned for its excellent hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Besseggen Ridge, Jotunheimen National Park
  • Rondane National Park Trek
  • Galdhøpiggen Summit Trek
  • Lofoten Islands Bike Tour
  • Sylan Mountain Trek

Best Things to Do in East Norway: Activities and Tours

East Norway offers plenty of activities and tours that will suit all kinds of travelers. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to leisurely sightseeing tours, there is something for everyone in East Norway. Here are some of the best things to do in East Norway:

  • Oslo Fjord Cruise
  • Snowmobiling in Rondane National Park
  • Kayaking in Geirangerfjord
  • Northern Lights Watching in Tromsø
  • Skiing in Hafjell

Week-Long Itinerary for East Norway

If you’re planning to visit East Norway, we recommend a week-long itinerary that covers some of the must-visit attractions in this region. Here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Oslo’s Museums and Historical Places
Day 2-3 Hike in Jotunheimen National Park
Day 4 Visit Heddal Stave Church and Norwegian Mining Museum
Day 5 Scenic Drive to Geirangerfjord and Kayaking
Day 6 Skiing in Hafjell and Evening Northern Lights Watching in Tromsø
Day 7 Explore Downtown Oslo and Norsk Folkemuseum

Food and Drink Scene of East Norway

East Norway is home to a rich food and drink scene that offers a range of delicious local specialties. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in East Norway:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Plattfisk (Flatfish)
  • Raspeballer (Potato Dumplings)
  • Pinnekjøtt (Lamb and Cabbage Stew)
  • Fårikål (Boiled Lamb and Cabbage)
  • Fiskesuppe (Fish Soup)

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit
  • Beer
  • Cider
  • Mead
  • Norwegian Gin

Where to Stay in East Norway: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Norway offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers’ preferences and budgets. Here are some of the top-rated places to stay in East Norway:

  • The Thief, Oslo
  • Scandic Holmenkollen Park, Oslo
  • Jo Hov Hotel, Beitostølen
  • Vestlia Resort, Geilo
  • Juvet Landscape Hotel, Valldal

What to Buy in East Norway: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

East Norway is home to many unique souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing back home. Here are some of the best things to buy in East Norway:

  • Norwegian Sweaters and Scarves
  • Traditional Sami Handicrafts
  • Handmade Glassworks and Pottery
  • Viking-Inspired Jewelry
  • Norwegian Cheese and Chocolates

Local Culture and Customs of East Norway

The people of East Norway are proud of their rich cultural heritage, and visitors must be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some of the customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of:

  • Norwegians value nature greatly and have strict laws regarding environmental conservation and sustainability.
  • Norwegians are punctual, and being late for appointments is considered disrespectful.
  • Tipping in restaurants is not mandatory as the service charges are already included in the bill.

Best Time to Visit East Norway

The best time to visit East Norway is from May to September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, then December to March is an excellent time to visit East Norway.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Norway

Here are some of the Do’s and Don’ts of East Norway:

Do:

  • Explore the great outdoors and the scenic landscape
  • Respect nature and the environment
  • Follow local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Be late for appointments
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in East Norway

East Norway is generally a safe destination, and visitors need not worry about safety concerns. However, as with any other destination, visitors should exercise common sense precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being alert in crowded areas.

Health in East Norway

Norway has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can access medical assistance easily. However, visitors should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on their trip.

Getting to East Norway: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Norway is well-connected by various transportation options such as flights, buses, and trains. Here are some of the main transportation options to get to East Norway:

Airports Near East Norway

  • Oslo Airport (Gardermoen)
  • Torp Sandefjord Airport

Bus Stations Near East Norway

  • Oslo Bus Terminal
  • Trondheim Bus Terminal
  • Bergen Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train Stations in Oslo and Trondheim
  • Ferry Services from Scandinavia and Germany

How to Get Around in East Norway

Getting around in East Norway is easy and convenient, with various transportation options such as buses, trains, and rental cars. Visitors can also enjoy scenic train rides and ferry trips to explore the beautiful surroundings of East Norway.

Where to Go Next from East Norway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Norway is surrounded by many other beautiful destinations that are worth visiting. Here are some of the nearby destinations that visitors can explore:

  • Bergen
  • Trondheim
  • Lofoten Islands
  • Geirangerfjord
  • Trollstigen

Conclusion

East Norway offers a unique travel experience that combines outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and a rich culinary scene. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, East Norway has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of East Norway.

Slidre lake in the Valdres uplands Slidre lake in the Valdres uplands Typical Typical "svaberg" (polished cliffs) at Tjøme, a popular summer resort. Fredrikstad old town is a fortress at the big river. Fredrikstad old town is a fortress at the big river. Hemsedal ski slopes. Hemsedal ski slopes. Krøderen lake with road 7 at the entrance to Hallingdal Krøderen lake with road 7 at the entrance to Hallingdal Arriving by ferry along the Oslofjord. Arriving by ferry along the Oslofjord. Road 15 at the mountain pass to Stryn and Geiranger. At these altitudes there can be occasional snowfall even in May. Road 15 at the mountain pass to Stryn and Geiranger. At these altitudes there can be occasional snowfall even in May. Train on Bergen line near Geilo heading for Finse Train on Bergen line near Geilo heading for Finse Jotunheimen range includes Norway's highest mountains and separates east and west. It is a the most popular hiking destination with hikes at all levels of difficulty. Jotunheimen range includes Norway's highest mountains and separates east and west. It is a the most popular hiking destination with hikes at all levels of difficulty. Perfectly groomed cross country trails near Gol, Hallingdal. Perfectly groomed cross country trails near Gol, Hallingdal. centre centre


    Buskerud
    Hedmark
    Oppland
    Oslo region
    Telemark
    Vestfold
    Østfold