For a small country, Norway punches well above its weight as a vacation destination. It is one of the most spectacular and jaw-droppingly beautiful countries in the world, thanks to its enchanting landscapes of mountains, forests, wild coast, and breathtaking fjords.
It also boasts a rich cultural heritage and fascinating history, with Viking myth and legend making it a fascinating and mysterious place to discover.
As a result, it is a wonderful place to explore as a family. From magnificent wilderness and exciting wildlife to art, culture, and cuisine, there is a huge array of experiences to be had as a family in Norway. So whether you are sailing from Southampton to see Norway’s most spectacular fjords or just dropping in for a city break to Oslo, here are some of the greatest things to see and do in this magnificent Nordic country.
Exploring Viking Heritage and Museums
Norway’s Viking heritage is one of the most exciting parts of the country’s history and is always a hit with kids. Museums like the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo are fantastic places to dive into the past and explore this gruesome, magical period, with well-preserved Viking ships, brutal weaponry, and fascinating archaeological artifacts. The interactive exhibits offer children the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of history’s most famous warriors, try on helmets and armor, and learn about Norway’s incredible seafaring history.
Visiting Fairytale-Like Old Towns
Norway is full of picture-postcard fairytale towns, from hidden towns in the mountains to gorgeous wooden fishing villages in a range of wonderful pastel colors. Strolling through places like Bergen’s Bryggen or Stavanger’s Gamle Stavanger is like stepping out of everyday life and into a storybook. Cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a range of charming street markets make exploring Norway’s smaller settlements a wonderful option for families.
Sampling Traditional Norwegian Cuisine
Norwegian cuisine is not always heralded as one of the main attractions of a visit to the country, but it is worth exploring. A blend of fresh local produce and flavors and influences from the sea and the mountains, it tends to be zesty, authentic, and simple, with fascinating flavors that adventurous eaters will love. Norwegian waffles served with fruit jam or local cheese are usually a hit with younger kids, while traditional dishes like lutefisk (dried fish soaked in lye), rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge), or the world-famous kjøttboller meatballs will delight more advanced palates.
Outdoor Adventures in Norway’s Scenic Landscapes
Of course, no trip to Norway would be complete without an appreciation of the country’s staggering natural beauty. Its scenic landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking in the fjords to skiing down mountain slopes. Kids will love the chance to explore the countryside by dog sled or walk across frozen glaciers, all the while surrounded by some of the most extravagant and beautiful landscapes around.
Local Festivals and Celebrations
One of the best ways to get to grips with Norway’s fascinating and delightful culture is by taking part in local festivals and celebrations. Throughout the year and across the country, various family-friendly festivals take place around a wide variety of themes. From the Norwegian Constitution Day or “Syttende Mai,” on May 17th to the pagan magnificence of the summer solstice celebrations, these events give families a chance to have fun and enjoy themselves while also getting a little more insight into the traditions and customs of the country.
Norway is not just somewhere to visit for outdoor adventures but also a treasure trove of art, culture, heritage, and amazing cuisine. For families, the chance to combine beautiful scenery and exciting wildlife with interesting history, great cooking, and fascinating traditional crafts and customs makes Norway an amazing vacation destination!
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