Discover Norway: Six Norwegian destinations you must visit in 2025
Despite carrying the moniker of Norway's 'oil capital' Stavnager is a quaint and picturesque city packed with vibrant nightlife and charming streets.
The city will celebrate its 900th anniversary in 2025, and there will be plenty of events next year celebrating the milestone birthday.
Stavanger's small size makes it perfect for visitors who like to get their steps in and see everything on foot while on holiday.
Some of the city's biggest events will be held in the spring and summer. These include a city-wide festival in April, 900th birthday celebrations in June, and the emigrant ship "Restauration" repeating the voyage from Vågen to America it made in 1825 in July.
Even if you can't time your trip around one of these events, the charming old town with its UNESCO recognition is worth a visit in its own right.
Florø
Island-hopping has long been a favourite for travellers in the Mediterranean. However, given that Norway has the most coastline in Europe, it might be time to consider the Nordic country as an island-hopping destination.
The cosy town of Florø on Norway's west coast should prove to be a solid base to enjoy picturesque islands such as Kinn. Kinn is famous for its 12th-century church and the spectacular Kinnaklova mountain.
Svanøy and Batalden make great locations due to their Viking history and stunning scenery. Svanøy is said to be the birthplace of Eric Bloodaxe, the 10th-century King of Norway and King of Northumbria.
Florø is served by a small regional airport, making reaching via a domestic flight from within Norway easy.
Given that the weather in west Norway can't be relied on, a rain jacket would be a wise investment – just in case.
Kragerø
Kragerø is a small coastal town and a cluster of islands located in Telemark about three hours south of Oslo.
It has long been a popular summer holiday destination with Norwegians. For those who prefer a more relaxed holiday, consider a boat trip. Those who love to stay active won't be disappointed however.
Kragerø is great for both active and more relaxed holidays. Photo by Daniel Charles Hextall on Unsplash
The area is so beautiful in the summer light that it inspired Norway's most famous artist, Edvard Munch, to use similar tones in his works.
The Flåm Railway
Considered by Forbes and numerous travel mags to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, the Flåm Railway is on many people's bucket lists.
Spring is probably the best time to travel on this journey, which uses a classic green locomotive to complete the hour-long trip.
The journey takes you along mountainsides and passes the Kjosfossen waterfall. The train stops at the waterfall so people can enjoy the views, get some fresh air, and take pictures.
Another perk is that you will probably use the country's other famous train journey, the Bergen Railway, to reach the Flåm railway.
You can use either Bergen or Oslo as a base for this trip, although Bergen is probably the better choice overall as it will take less time to reach Myrdal.
Senja
Therefore, travellers are considering alternatives. Norway's second-largest island, Senja, is located in the Troms region of northern Norway. It boasts high mountains, white beaches, and a bright blue sea – reminiscent of the nature at Lofoten.
The island's inland areas are rich with mountains, lakes, and forests, while the coast features dramatic rock formations and charming fishing villages.
The long summer days in northern Norway give the town a hazy otherworldly feel.
Trollstigen
Due to a landslide, Norway's most iconic road, Trollstigen, was barely open in 2024. The road has a tentative reopening date of July 2025 – meaning you should hold off planning a trip until after these dates.
Famous for its 11 hairpin turns draped over a breathtaking mountain pass, Trollstigen is popular for road trips. One stop on such a road trip would be Geiranger, where visitors should consider taking a cruise through a UNESCO-recognised fjord.
The route is also becoming a popular destination for cycling holidays.
There are several viewing platforms where you can take in the views along Trollstigen. Photo by Paul Povoroznuk on Unsplash
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