norwaytodo

Norway

Norway is a fascinating country with amazing landscapes. However, it is an expensive country so travel will need to be at lightning speed.

I will spend 1 day at Nordkapp, 2 days at Trondheim, 1 day at Lillehammer, 1 day at Fl�m, 1 day in Fj�rland, 3 days in Bergen, 1 day traveling to Oslo, and 2 days in Oslo. With a buffer this makes for 14 days.

                                                       Nordkapp

This is the northern most point in Europe. There is a tourist complex that you can wander around for a day. You might want to stay at Honnigsv�g.

                                                                      Trondheim

The ancient kings of Norway assembled here and it was the capital of Norway until 1217. Leif Ericson lived here around 1000 A.D. Trondheim had a profitable harbor until it silted in the 17th century. During WWII it was occupied by German forces.

Things to Do:

Nidaros Domkirke- This is the city�s most dominant landmark and Scandinavia�s largest medieval building. The oldest wing dates to the 12th century. This was also the site of Norwegian coronations.

Trondhjems Kunstforening- This museum has a nice collection of Scandinavian art.

Old Trondheim- Medieval ruins can be viewed in the basement of the Sparebank.

Kristiansten Fort- You can get a great view of the city from here.

Hjemmefrontmuseet- This is the home front museum. It chronicles the Nazi occupation.


                                                   Lillehammer

This area has been settled since the Iron Age. Lillehammer was first mentioned in the 14th century as having a council. In the 1850�s it became a merchant city. Then in 1994 the winter Olympics were held here.

Things to Do:

Norwegian Olympic Museum- This museum deals with the history of the Olympic Games. You can even try out a bobsled simulator.

Maihaguen Folk Museum- This museum is excellent. It is set up like a village.

Art Museum- One of Norway�s largest collections of national art this museum is worth a look. Edvard Munch is well represented here.

                                                                     Fl�m

The point of coming here is to spend a day exploring the Aurlands Fjord. A boat trip is the best way.

                                                                  Fj�rland

This is the time to be a package tourist. You will go on a ferry and then a bus will take you to the Norwegian Glacier Museum. You will even be able to touch it.


                                                      Bergen

Bergen began around the 11th century. It was Norway�s capital until 1299. At the end of the 13th century it became one of the Hanseatic League�s most important cities. Due to this there was a large German influence that didn�t end until 1536.   During the 15th and 16th centuries Bergen was the largest Nordic city. In 1850 Oslo overtook it. During WWII the Nazi�s occupied the city. There were a few allied bombing raids as well. Today this is one of the cities to visit while in Norway.

Things to Do:

Bryggen- This is the site of the old medieval quarter. Be sure to wander a bit.

Hanseatic Museum- This well done museum gives a glimpse at merchant�s lives.

Bryggens- This archeological museum was built at the site of Bergen�s earliest settlement. Remains have been incorporated into the exhibit.

Theta Museum- This was the hidden headquarters of the Norwegian Resistance during WWII. The Nazi�s discovered it. It is still a difficult place to find.

Mariakirken- This Romanesque church dates partly back to the 12th century and is Bergen�s oldest building.

Rosenkronte Tower- Climb up to get a great view of the city.

Cultural History Museum- This museum concentrates on Viking and medieval history.

Bergen Art Museum- This museum has a great collection of Norwegian art from the 18th and 19th centuries. European masters are also well represented.

                                                              Oslo � Bergen

Take the train during the day. The view is worth it.

                                                                     Oslo

Oslo was founded in 1048 by King Harald Hardr�de, however there is significant evidence of earlier settlements. In 1299 it became the capital of Norway. Then in 1624 it was destroyed by fired and then rebuilt across the bay. Around this time it was renamed Christiania, the name was changed back in 1925. Today it is growing like crazy.

Things to Do:

Akershus Castle- This 17th century palace still looks very medieval. Be sure to check out the dungeons. The chapel is also worth a look.

Bygdoy- This peninsula has some of Oslo�s best attractions. Check out the Viking ships and the open air museum.

Island Hoping- Fine the one with the rabbits!

Day Trip:

Fredrikstad- This is an old enclosed fortress town that was built in 1567 to protect Oslo from the Swedes. Be sure to check out the waterfront and the moat.