2 Weeks in Norway Itinerary: My Northern Odyssey

Oh, Norway – land of jaw-dropping fjords, mythical auroras, and the friendliest vikings you'll ever meet. I embarked on a two-week adventure in 2015 through this enchanting country, and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster of experiences, emotions, and oh-so-stunning landscapes. So grab your virtual Viking helmet, folks, as I take you on a whirlwind tour of my epic escapade through Norway. So let me now show you my 2 Weeks in Norway Itinerary.

2 Weeks in Norway

Week 1: Oslo – A Hostel and a Few Surprises

Viking Ship

I kicked off my Norwegian adventure in the bustling capital, Oslo. To make my budget-conscious heart happy, I stayed at Anker Hostel – a clean, comfy spot with a price tag that won't make you cry into your pickled herring. It set me back around $60 USD a night for a private room.

Oslo was a treasure trove of experiences. From the mesmerizing Vigeland Park and its quirky sculptures to the mind-blowing Viking Ship Museum (where I secretly hoped to find a lost ancestral horned helmet), I had my fair share of cultural immersion. And oh, the food! I became best friends with Norwegian waffles, salmon, and brunost cheese – a delightful combo that should come with a "Warning: Addictive" sign.

Week 2: Tromsø – Chasing the Aurora Magic

Aurora Borealis

With the taste of Oslo still on my lips, I hopped on a plane to Tromsø, the Arctic Circle's jewel, to chase the elusive Northern Lights. I checked into Smarthotel Tromsø – a cozy haven with a view of the harbor, setting me back about $100 USD per night. Pricey, yes, but Tromsø's magic was worth every krone.

Tromsø, oh Tromsø! I wandered through snowy streets, met reindeer (yes, actual reindeer), and sipped on hot chocolate as I gazed at the Arctic Cathedral. But the highlight? Dancing with the Northern Lights. On a cold, clear night, I watched in awe as green and purple curtains painted the sky. Worth every chilly toe and sleepless night.

2 weeks in norway

Week 2 (Continued): Bergen – Fjords, Flam, and Frozen Scenery

Norwegian Forest Cat

Next up, Bergen – a plane ride followed by a scenic train journey that left me with my jaw on the floor. I explored the city's charming wooden houses and, of course, sampled Bergen's famous seafood. But the real adventure was yet to come.

A boat tour took me through the stunning Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where I felt like I'd sailed right into a fairy tale. And then there was The Flam Railway (Flåmsbana) – a train ride that plowed through snow-covered landscapes, making me feel like I was riding the Polar Express (sans Tom Hanks).

“Above all, the Flåm Line is a technical masterpiece. Due to the steep ascent from 0 to

Flåmsbana Train

866 metres above sea level, two locomotives are required – one in front and one behind the train, and every carriage is rigged with a special brake system,” says Jan Helge Østlund has written several books on Norwegian train journeys and railway history.

Week 2 (Continued): Back to Oslo – A Final Toast to Norway

The journey ended with a train ride from Bergen back to Oslo. I needed a little R&R before the long flight back to NYC. Oslo welcomed me with open arms for one last hurrah, and I raised my glass (of that addictive brunost cheese) to the land of fjords, Vikings, and Northern Lights.

Two weeks in Norway – a whirlwind of adventure, beauty, and moments that will forever be etched in my travel diary. Norway, you've left your mark on my heart, and I'll be back for more Viking hugs and waffles sooner than you can say "skål"! 🇳🇴❄️🌌