Module 14:
Why should I visit Norway’s cities in winter?

Widely known as the Arctic capital, lively Tromsø is another given winter destination. Tromsø is a university town with a buzzing nightlife. And with a winter season that can be up to eight months long, the locals have learnt how to lighten up the atmosphere even when the sun stays below the horizon.

For everyone who prefers more quiet entertainment, there are lots of galleries and museums to explore. Those with an interest in the Sami are wise to set aside several hours at the Arctic University of Norway. Their ethnographic exhibitions cover everything from prehistoric times to contemporary Sami culture.

At the aquarium and experience centre Polaria, you can say hello to seals, catfish and sharks. The Polar Museum has a lot to tell about local hunting life, which is an important part of Tromsø’s identity.

The Arctic Cathedral is appreciated for many reasons, not the least for its concerts.

Tromsø has a thriving culinary scene. The city centre abounds with exciting places to eat, so it’s literally a piece of cake to find a fantastic meal. Why not try local treats such as grilled stockfish, reindeer sirloin, or – if you dare – seagull eggs?

Last but not least, nature is practically on your doorstep. Almost everywhere you go, there are grand views in all directions and unlimited possibilities for nature-based experiences.

A great winter tip is to go to Norway’s second biggest city Bergen on the Bergen railway line, with wonderful views along the way from Oslo. Along the way, many people take the opportunity to go for a detour on the spectacular Flåm railway. Get off at Voss and take the bus to Myrdal, where you can catch the train to Flåm. Guaranteed wow-moments also in the winter!

Top tips in Bergen include the KODE art museums, the aquarium, and of course Bryggen – the UNESCO-listed medieval wharf. Today, Bryggen is lined with small shops, galleries and restaurants.

Bergen’s massive gingerbread town deserves a special mention. Constructed before Christmas every year, it’s the biggest in the world!

Video: Sit back and relax

Ålesund in Fjord Norway is just as stunning in the winter as the rest of the year. Located across several islands by the Atlantic Ocean, it is surrounded by the snow-capped mountain tops of the Sunnmøre Alps.

Known for its architecture in Art Nouveau style, Ålesund is the cultural center of the region. Culture vultures will enjoy KHÅK Kunsthall, which has a wonderful collection of graphics by Norwegian artists. It’s also worth checking out the live music and festival scene. Those who visit at the end of November can enjoy the annual music festival Jugendfest.

Ålesund is also a foodie paradise, especially for fish- and seafood aficionados. Many local restaurants serve up platters of succulent treasures from the sea.

Wintertime is the season for skrei, a special type of Arctic cod that is served as more of a delicacy than its common cod cousin. Also worth a mention is klippfisk, dried and salted cod that makes up the base ingredient for Norwegian bacalao.

Trondheim in central Norway is perfect for history buffs and foodies. With some 40,000 students, there is always something fun going on. Enjoy live music or look for bargains in the many niche shops in the city’s charming neighbourhoods. The Nidaros Cathedral in the centre is an impressive building that dates back to medieval times.

Some of the city’s most popular museums include Trondheim Art Museum, National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design (Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum) and the Archbishop’s Palace (Erkebispegården). A museum with another kind of artistic expression is Rockheim, Norway’s national museum for popular music.

Trondheim has strong gastronomic traditions that can be enjoyed in numerous restaurants across the city. A new wave of microbreweries and several novel coffee shops completes Trondheim’s culinary scene.

Just outside the city centre, the vast outdoor area Bymarka is ideal for long walks and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Bodø is a real gem located just above the Arctic Circle. This fun city is currently gearing up to be the European Capital of Culture in 2024.

The city is famous for its spectacular light conditions, which gives a winter visit a special atmosphere. Even during the darkest month, glimpses of the sun create shades from dark blue through deep pink and pale yellow. Plus, there are great chances to spot the northern lights.

A top cultural attraction is the area known as “the culture quarter” (Kulturkvarteret Stormen), where you’ll find a concert hall and one of Norway’s best libraries. The Norwegian Aviation Museum right next to the airport (which is situated within walking distance to the city centre!) is also worth a visit. Keep your eyes open for cool street art, too.

Bodø is a great place to explore Northern Norway’s culinary traditions, including some of the freshest seafood you can imagine. Finish off the evening with a cocktail in one of the city’s beloved sky bars, where you have a panoramic view of the sea and mountains.