Top 5 Norwegian Islands You Must Visit

Ellie Green
Authored by Ellie Green
Posted Monday, August 28, 2023 - 6:13pm

When we talk about boat trips and island hopping, maybe the first pictures that spring to mind are of tropical destinations with palm trees and turquoise waters. However, imagine for a moment a country with 55,000 islands, and more than 25,000km of stunningly beautiful coastline, covered with unique geological formations. Norway is all that and much more. Come with us and explore the best islands to visit in the country.

Choose Your Port

Visiting the fjords and island hopping in Norway is a truly unforgettable experience. The best part of having so many islands and bays is choosing which ones you want to visit. And, thanks to  different cruises deals you can visit new ones every time you come back. The Land of the Midnight Sun also has fantastic port cities worth exploring along the way.

Here are just some of the most important ones.

Bergen

Bergen is so unique and historical that the docks are considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. The seafront is surrounded by traditional tall houses with triangular tops painted in various colours.

Trondheim

Trondheim is another historical destination often included in the itinerary of the best cruises Norwegian Fjords. It was the country’s capital until the early 13th century and still keeps most of its traditional architecture.

Tromso

Tromso is called “the Paris of the North” for a reason. The Arctic Cathedral is only one among many architectural gems in the city, nested on the lap of the majestic Mount Tromsdalstinden. While there, take some time to try the cable car ride for unique city views.

 

Top 5 Norwegian Islands

You’ll need more than one trip to visit everything worth seeing in Norway. However, some destinations are a must-see if it’s your first time there. Check them out!

Moskenes

Moskenes is part of the Lofoten Islands. While an Arctic island might not be the most intuitive choice for a beach vacation, Moskenes has mild weather. Reine is among the most important villages in the region. You’ll recognise it from its red-painted houses, surrounded by dramatic mountains.

Vestvågøy

While in the Lofoten archipelago, take some time to visit Vestvågøy. It’s a famous destination for surfers worldwide and is listed among the best places in Europe for the sport. The Lofotr Viking Museum is also a mandatory stop.

Hidra

Hidra is part of Vest-Adger County and has been inhabited for millennia. The island has seen everything from the Vikings to the Nazis during WWII. The place is split in half by the Rasvåg fjord, and it’s also a famous destination for its picturesque villages.  

Vågsøy

Vågsøy is also a popular site for surfers, especially those who love exotic destinations. You don’t need to be into surfing to fall in love with it, though. The place is also home to Kannesteinen, a striking rock rising from the sea.

Bragdøya

Bragdøya is only a few kilometres from Norway’s fifth-largest city, Kristiansand. The island is famous for its Mediterranean looks, with shallow waters touched by green fields. It’s a great place for camping and hiking.

Ahoy!

How could you not love Norwegian islands?

Unfortunately, this article couldn’t possibly mention all of the ones worth visiting. However, you can explore many more of them with many exciting cruises,  as well as enjoy culturally immersive excursions and unparalleled gastronomic experiences.

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