Architecture

Oslo stands out among European cities for its unique blend of modern architecture and historical landmarks. One must-visit is the Oslo Opera House, a striking building whose white exterior and sloping roof creates the illusion of an iceberg emerging from the fjord below. Down the waterfront, the medieval Akershus Fortress stands proudly as a testament to Norwegian history and strength. Take a guided tour of the fortress in the afternoon, then head to the Opera House to catch a performance.

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A post shared by Diana (@oslo4me)

Nature

The Norwegian capital also has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor experiences, thanks to its many parks and position along the picturesque Oslofjord. In the summer, the iconic Vigeland Park springs to life as a vibrant backdrop for hundreds of sculptures, while across the city, locals gather around the Sørenga waterfront for activities such as swimming and kayaking. Come winter, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to the Oslo Winter Park for some alpine skiing.

Culture

In addition to its impressive roster of parks and museums, Oslo is home to a rich cultural scene shaped by art, food, and music. Every year, the city hosts dozens of festivals featuring local and international musical artists, and over two dozen restaurants around the city have earned at least one Michelin star. For more casual fare, head to Mathallen Food Hall and try some Norwegian street food.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mathallen Oslo (@mathallenoslo)

The post 3 Reasons to Visit Oslo, Norway appeared first on Traveler Master.

Natural Wonders

One of Norway’s main attractions is undoubtedly its fjords. Carved by ancient glaciers, these deep, narrow inlets are a testament to the country’s geological marvels. Sail through the iconic Geirangerfjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, or venture to Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic beauty. The year-round appeal of Norway is enhanced by its winter wonderland. Chase the dancing Northern Lights in Tromsø or indulge in thrilling winter sports in places like Hemsedal and Trysil.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Visit Norway (@visitnorway)

Hiking

If you’re looking for a hiking opportunity, Norway is a haven. The rugged landscapes offer hiking trails that lead to panoramic vistas. The challenging trek to Trolltunga rewards hikers with a breathtaking perch high above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, while the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) offers a stunning plateau overlooking the Lysefjord.

Cities

Beyond its natural allure, Norway’s cities are vibrant hubs of culture and history. Oslo, the capital, boasts world-class museums like the Munch Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, while Bergen enchants with its colorful wooden houses along the historic Bryggen Wharf.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sølve Merkesdal (@bergeninnorway)

The post Have You Ever Been To Norway? appeared first on Traveler Master.

The Cold Weather

Okay, bear with us here on this one. Why would cold weather be an attraction for those seeking a fun vacation? We’re not necessarily saying that people enjoy being cold, but we are saying that people are looking for an authentic experience. Walking through Iceland in sub-zero weather is pretty shocking for most—but that just makes the experience of entering those hot springs all the more heavenly.

The Communities

With so much cold weather, the locals of Scandinavian countries are used to hard times. They tend to be built more of the salt-of-the-earth kind of character you normally see in small towns. You’re more likely to come across a quaint village in a country like Finland than you are in France. In addition, many surveys have also reported that the Scandinavian people are incredibly nice.

The Scenery

Backpackers are expanding beyond simple museum tours and opting for beautiful scenery. From the Northern Lights to the countless mountains of Norway, Scandinavian countries have some of the most breathtaking landscapes and hikes that you can imagine. Things are quieter up there, and a lot more peaceful too.

The post Why Scandinavian Countries Are All The Rage These Days appeared first on Traveler Master.

Norwegian Sweater

These unique sweaters are pretty pricey, but each one is unique. They are made from 100% wool and feature braid work, Viking era patterns, and silver buttons. Dale of Norway and Nordstrikk are two brands to take a look at. Their sweaters will keep you toasty and warm. 

Aquavit

Every country has its national liquor, and Aquavit is Norway’s. The direct translation of ‘aquavit’ is fire water. That should give you an indication of what it tastes like. It has a slightly herbal flavor to it and will remind you of hiking out to the fjords. 

A Solje Brooch

Every year, Norwegians celebrate Constitution Day on May 17th. The entire country wears traditional dresses and a special Solje brooch. These silver brooches are something that can be passed down through generations.

The post The Top 3 Traditional Norwegian Souvenirs appeared first on Traveler Master.

Assistens Cemetery

This peaceful cemetery is found just off from Carlsburg station. It is home to the graves of Copenhagen’s most beloved writer, Hans Christian Anderson, and the city’s most accomplished philosopher, Soren Kierkegaard. You can find busts of their faces and memorial plaques devoted to their illustrious memories.

Andersen’s Nyhavn

The picturesque pastel-colored houses at Nyhavn is the most photographed spot in the city. Number 20 was inhabited by Hans Christian Anderson when he wrote “The Princess and the Pea”, later moving into number 67. Today this is the Anderson cafe, where you can enjoy a traditional Danish lunch.

The Little Mermaid

Gazing out to sea by the old military fort is the famous sculpture of Anderson’s Little Mermaid.

Bredgade 70

Number 70 Bredgade is the old house of the famous philosopher Soren Kierkegaard. A renowned early 19th-century philosopher and theologian, the young Kierkegaard’s family nickname was “the fork” because he could skewer other people’s vulnerabilities.

The post The Philosophers’ Guide to Copenhagen appeared first on Traveler Master.

What to Do

When people think of Norway, a lot of people think of the Vikings, which is a good connection to make. Even if you’re not a huge history buff, you need to visit the Viking Ship Museum. This museum hosts 3-9th century Viking ships, all preserved impeccably. It’s amazing to think about how these vessels were built without any modern technology, and the craftsmanship that went into each one is breathtaking.

One of the most famous attractions in Oslo is the Vigeland Sculpture Park. This site celebrates the Norweigan sculptor Gustav Vigeland, a late 19th century/early 20th-century sculptor, by displaying more than 600 of his pieces made up of all sorts of mediums.

Seeing these large sculptures up close and being able to interact with them outside, all year round is such a cool artistic experience. Also, the park is located inside Frogner Park, which you should definitely take advantage of after you go through the sculptures!

The oldest church in Oslo is called Gamle Aker Kirke, or Old Aker Church, and it is so stunning. This church was built in Medieval times, and it’s actually not only the oldest church but the oldest building in the entire city!

After you visit the church, continue onto Damstredet and Telthusbakken if you’re keen on seeing some incredible architecture! These small streets are secretly famous because they have tons of houses built in the 18th and 19th centuries that are fully functioning and totally unique. They’re built in a style called vernacular architecture, where only local materials are used, and each house is built in a completely different look, which is so unique.

Oslo is a city famous for its numerous flea markets, so if you’re into finding quirky antiques and artisan items, you’re in the right spot.

There are many different markets or markeds in Norweigan, but one of the best is Krakabøla Marked. This market is the oldest in Oslo and is held in the city’s Old Town, appropriately. The market has many items, old and new, with a big ecological focus. There are also tons of food stalls, live music, and activities, and really is an event that people of any age can enjoy!

What to Eat

There are so many cool foods to try in Oslo because Norway has such a cool gastronomical history. One thing that you can’t miss is something called brown cheese. This kind of cheese isn’t something you would have piles of, it’s a strong caramelized cheese that people use on toast, and often you’ll find it as flavorings to sweets like ice cream and more! One cool way to try it is on a sweet and savory waffle from Haralds Vaffel, it’s so worth it!

The post Oslo is an Objectively Cool City appeared first on Traveler Master.

While Norway’s fjords, cliffs, and ocean landscapes can be seen in a variety of ways, one of the most interesting options for those who are looking to experience this country’s unique geography is on the world-renowned Atlantic Ocean Road.

This five-mile stretch of asphalt, which connects the island and population center of Averøy with the country’s mainland, is a twisty, up-and-down route that takes you over a path containing some of the most impressive and extreme road engineerings out there.

The Atlantic Ocean Road consists of several bridges that twist and turn in order to dodge the elements and take cars from point A to point B. The thrill of driving on this sort of road is only eclipsed by the thrill of taking in the breathtaking landscape from the window as a passenger.

If you’re lucky enough to end up in Norway, don’t hesitate and be sure to plan a drive on this spectacular route.

The post Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road is an Unforgettable 5 Miles appeared first on Traveler Master.

Midsummer

This is Scandinavia’s best known and most popular festival, a traditional celebration of the summer solstice. Midsummer, locally called “Midsommar,” marks the longest day of the year, June 21st, so the festival takes place over the weekend between the 20th and the 26th of June. The festivities are rooted in pre-Christian times and the traditions include a bonfire, folk music, and eating potatoes, fish, and fruit, and drinking fresh ale.

Rowing Trip

The beautiful all-year-round Scandinavian wild landscape is simply glorious in the summer. After the winter snow is thawed, the rivers and archipelagos are gushing and refreshing and can be enjoyed to the fullest in the long days. If you’re confident on a kayak or a canoe, rent equipment and go on your own otherwise take a rowing and camping tour with an experienced guide in one of the region’s many national parks.

The post Two Scandi Summer Ideas appeared first on Traveler Master.

Bikes

All over Europe bikes are a big deal. However, in a place like Denmark, it’s second nature. You might be tempted to use one wherever you visit, but beware in big cities like Copenhagen it’s not necessarily a place where tourists are invited to bike. If you’re not a city biker, you will be shocked by the way the flow of bike traffic is handled, and if you get flustered, you could potentially hurt yourself and others.

Jaywalking

Another traffic-related rule is to never jaywalk. This is something you might find in other European countries as well, but the Danes take it really seriously. Not only will you blend in more if you follow this rule, but you will avoid potentially getting a hefty ticket!

The Language

Normally it’s really polite to go to a new place and learn a few words to seem considerate. However, in Denmark, the language is so difficult that there’s really no use. Also, English is almost everyone’s second language, so you don’t need to know it out of courtesy.

The post Fit In With the Locals By Avoiding These Things in Denmark appeared first on Traveler Master.

Architecture

Oslo stands out among European cities for its unique blend of modern architecture and historical landmarks. One must-visit is the Oslo Opera House, a striking building whose white exterior and sloping roof creates the illusion of an iceberg emerging from the fjord below. Down the waterfront, the medieval Akershus Fortress stands proudly as a testament to Norwegian history and strength. Take a guided tour of the fortress in the afternoon, then head to the Opera House to catch a performance.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Diana (@oslo4me)

Nature

The Norwegian capital also has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor experiences, thanks to its many parks and position along the picturesque Oslofjord. In the summer, the iconic Vigeland Park springs to life as a vibrant backdrop for hundreds of sculptures, while across the city, locals gather around the Sørenga waterfront for activities such as swimming and kayaking. Come winter, you can’t go wrong with a day trip to the Oslo Winter Park for some alpine skiing.

Culture

In addition to its impressive roster of parks and museums, Oslo is home to a rich cultural scene shaped by art, food, and music. Every year, the city hosts dozens of festivals featuring local and international musical artists, and over two dozen restaurants around the city have earned at least one Michelin star. For more casual fare, head to Mathallen Food Hall and try some Norwegian street food.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mathallen Oslo (@mathallenoslo)

The post 3 Reasons to Visit Oslo, Norway appeared first on Traveler Master.

Natural Wonders

One of Norway’s main attractions is undoubtedly its fjords. Carved by ancient glaciers, these deep, narrow inlets are a testament to the country’s geological marvels. Sail through the iconic Geirangerfjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, or venture to Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic beauty. The year-round appeal of Norway is enhanced by its winter wonderland. Chase the dancing Northern Lights in Tromsø or indulge in thrilling winter sports in places like Hemsedal and Trysil.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Visit Norway (@visitnorway)

Hiking

If you’re looking for a hiking opportunity, Norway is a haven. The rugged landscapes offer hiking trails that lead to panoramic vistas. The challenging trek to Trolltunga rewards hikers with a breathtaking perch high above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, while the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) offers a stunning plateau overlooking the Lysefjord.

Cities

Beyond its natural allure, Norway’s cities are vibrant hubs of culture and history. Oslo, the capital, boasts world-class museums like the Munch Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, while Bergen enchants with its colorful wooden houses along the historic Bryggen Wharf.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sølve Merkesdal (@bergeninnorway)

The post Have You Ever Been To Norway? appeared first on Traveler Master.

The Cold Weather

Okay, bear with us here on this one. Why would cold weather be an attraction for those seeking a fun vacation? We’re not necessarily saying that people enjoy being cold, but we are saying that people are looking for an authentic experience. Walking through Iceland in sub-zero weather is pretty shocking for most—but that just makes the experience of entering those hot springs all the more heavenly.

The Communities

With so much cold weather, the locals of Scandinavian countries are used to hard times. They tend to be built more of the salt-of-the-earth kind of character you normally see in small towns. You’re more likely to come across a quaint village in a country like Finland than you are in France. In addition, many surveys have also reported that the Scandinavian people are incredibly nice.

The Scenery

Backpackers are expanding beyond simple museum tours and opting for beautiful scenery. From the Northern Lights to the countless mountains of Norway, Scandinavian countries have some of the most breathtaking landscapes and hikes that you can imagine. Things are quieter up there, and a lot more peaceful too.

The post Why Scandinavian Countries Are All The Rage These Days appeared first on Traveler Master.

Norwegian Sweater

These unique sweaters are pretty pricey, but each one is unique. They are made from 100% wool and feature braid work, Viking era patterns, and silver buttons. Dale of Norway and Nordstrikk are two brands to take a look at. Their sweaters will keep you toasty and warm. 

Aquavit

Every country has its national liquor, and Aquavit is Norway’s. The direct translation of ‘aquavit’ is fire water. That should give you an indication of what it tastes like. It has a slightly herbal flavor to it and will remind you of hiking out to the fjords. 

A Solje Brooch

Every year, Norwegians celebrate Constitution Day on May 17th. The entire country wears traditional dresses and a special Solje brooch. These silver brooches are something that can be passed down through generations.

The post The Top 3 Traditional Norwegian Souvenirs appeared first on Traveler Master.

Assistens Cemetery

This peaceful cemetery is found just off from Carlsburg station. It is home to the graves of Copenhagen’s most beloved writer, Hans Christian Anderson, and the city’s most accomplished philosopher, Soren Kierkegaard. You can find busts of their faces and memorial plaques devoted to their illustrious memories.

Andersen’s Nyhavn

The picturesque pastel-colored houses at Nyhavn is the most photographed spot in the city. Number 20 was inhabited by Hans Christian Anderson when he wrote “The Princess and the Pea”, later moving into number 67. Today this is the Anderson cafe, where you can enjoy a traditional Danish lunch.

The Little Mermaid

Gazing out to sea by the old military fort is the famous sculpture of Anderson’s Little Mermaid.

Bredgade 70

Number 70 Bredgade is the old house of the famous philosopher Soren Kierkegaard. A renowned early 19th-century philosopher and theologian, the young Kierkegaard’s family nickname was “the fork” because he could skewer other people’s vulnerabilities.

The post The Philosophers’ Guide to Copenhagen appeared first on Traveler Master.

What to Do

When people think of Norway, a lot of people think of the Vikings, which is a good connection to make. Even if you’re not a huge history buff, you need to visit the Viking Ship Museum. This museum hosts 3-9th century Viking ships, all preserved impeccably. It’s amazing to think about how these vessels were built without any modern technology, and the craftsmanship that went into each one is breathtaking.

One of the most famous attractions in Oslo is the Vigeland Sculpture Park. This site celebrates the Norweigan sculptor Gustav Vigeland, a late 19th century/early 20th-century sculptor, by displaying more than 600 of his pieces made up of all sorts of mediums.

Seeing these large sculptures up close and being able to interact with them outside, all year round is such a cool artistic experience. Also, the park is located inside Frogner Park, which you should definitely take advantage of after you go through the sculptures!

The oldest church in Oslo is called Gamle Aker Kirke, or Old Aker Church, and it is so stunning. This church was built in Medieval times, and it’s actually not only the oldest church but the oldest building in the entire city!

After you visit the church, continue onto Damstredet and Telthusbakken if you’re keen on seeing some incredible architecture! These small streets are secretly famous because they have tons of houses built in the 18th and 19th centuries that are fully functioning and totally unique. They’re built in a style called vernacular architecture, where only local materials are used, and each house is built in a completely different look, which is so unique.

Oslo is a city famous for its numerous flea markets, so if you’re into finding quirky antiques and artisan items, you’re in the right spot.

There are many different markets or markeds in Norweigan, but one of the best is Krakabøla Marked. This market is the oldest in Oslo and is held in the city’s Old Town, appropriately. The market has many items, old and new, with a big ecological focus. There are also tons of food stalls, live music, and activities, and really is an event that people of any age can enjoy!

What to Eat

There are so many cool foods to try in Oslo because Norway has such a cool gastronomical history. One thing that you can’t miss is something called brown cheese. This kind of cheese isn’t something you would have piles of, it’s a strong caramelized cheese that people use on toast, and often you’ll find it as flavorings to sweets like ice cream and more! One cool way to try it is on a sweet and savory waffle from Haralds Vaffel, it’s so worth it!

The post Oslo is an Objectively Cool City appeared first on Traveler Master.

While Norway’s fjords, cliffs, and ocean landscapes can be seen in a variety of ways, one of the most interesting options for those who are looking to experience this country’s unique geography is on the world-renowned Atlantic Ocean Road.

This five-mile stretch of asphalt, which connects the island and population center of Averøy with the country’s mainland, is a twisty, up-and-down route that takes you over a path containing some of the most impressive and extreme road engineerings out there.

The Atlantic Ocean Road consists of several bridges that twist and turn in order to dodge the elements and take cars from point A to point B. The thrill of driving on this sort of road is only eclipsed by the thrill of taking in the breathtaking landscape from the window as a passenger.

If you’re lucky enough to end up in Norway, don’t hesitate and be sure to plan a drive on this spectacular route.

The post Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road is an Unforgettable 5 Miles appeared first on Traveler Master.

Midsummer

This is Scandinavia’s best known and most popular festival, a traditional celebration of the summer solstice. Midsummer, locally called “Midsommar,” marks the longest day of the year, June 21st, so the festival takes place over the weekend between the 20th and the 26th of June. The festivities are rooted in pre-Christian times and the traditions include a bonfire, folk music, and eating potatoes, fish, and fruit, and drinking fresh ale.

Rowing Trip

The beautiful all-year-round Scandinavian wild landscape is simply glorious in the summer. After the winter snow is thawed, the rivers and archipelagos are gushing and refreshing and can be enjoyed to the fullest in the long days. If you’re confident on a kayak or a canoe, rent equipment and go on your own otherwise take a rowing and camping tour with an experienced guide in one of the region’s many national parks.

The post Two Scandi Summer Ideas appeared first on Traveler Master.

Bikes

All over Europe bikes are a big deal. However, in a place like Denmark, it’s second nature. You might be tempted to use one wherever you visit, but beware in big cities like Copenhagen it’s not necessarily a place where tourists are invited to bike. If you’re not a city biker, you will be shocked by the way the flow of bike traffic is handled, and if you get flustered, you could potentially hurt yourself and others.

Jaywalking

Another traffic-related rule is to never jaywalk. This is something you might find in other European countries as well, but the Danes take it really seriously. Not only will you blend in more if you follow this rule, but you will avoid potentially getting a hefty ticket!

The Language

Normally it’s really polite to go to a new place and learn a few words to seem considerate. However, in Denmark, the language is so difficult that there’s really no use. Also, English is almost everyone’s second language, so you don’t need to know it out of courtesy.

The post Fit In With the Locals By Avoiding These Things in Denmark appeared first on Traveler Master.