12 Unique Places To Visit In Norway

If you love breathtaking nature, charming towns, and unique culture, then you’ll love Norway.

Norway may be an amazing place to visit, but it’s also increasingly popular. That’s why we recommend adding some of the more unique places to visit in Norway to your itinerary.

While visiting popular destinations like Lysefjord is on most travellers' agendas (and we agree it should be, which is why we have such an epic Lysefjord hike and kayak experience), getting off the beaten track is equally rewarding.

So, to help you experience the lesser-known side of the country, here are our top picks for unique places to visit in Norway.

When looking for unique places to visit in Norway, you can’t overlook Rjukan. It’s the perfect destination for anyone seeking a pretty Norwegian town and some awesome outdoor adventure.

Rjukan, located in the Telemark region, is a charming town known for its rich industrial history and stunning natural beauty. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its significant role in World War II and the development of hydroelectric power.

The town is nestled in a deep valley, surrounded by steep mountains and cascading waterfalls. During the winter, Rjukan becomes a mecca for ice climbers, with numerous frozen waterfalls providing challenging routes.

In the warmer months, visitors can take the Krossobanen cable car to the Hardangervidda plateau for hiking or ascend Gaustatoppen, one of Norway’s most beautiful mountains. At the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of one-sixth of Norway on clear days.

At Skyhook, we offer three exciting ice climbing adventures for different experience levels, based in Rjukan - check them out:

We all know that one of the main reasons to visit Norway is to experience the amazing nature, mountains, and fjords. Well, the Lyngen Alps have got to be one of the most spectacular, and underrated, places in Norway for this.

The Lyngen Alps, located in Northern Norway, is a mountain range known for its dramatic peaks and deep fjords. Just a short drive from Tromsø, this area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.

The Lyngen Alps offer some of the best skiing in Norway, with pristine powder snow and off-piste opportunities that attract skiers from around the world. It’s one of the best places to visit for winter activities in Norway.

In the summer, the area transforms into a hiker’s paradise, with trails that lead to glaciers, mountain lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints. Even though it’s a unique and “off the beaten path” place to visit, it still boasts some of the best hiking in Norway.

The Lygen Alps’s remote location will give any visitor a totally peaceful experience - allowing you to connect with nature in one of Norway's most beautiful settings.

Of all the unique places to visit in Norway, Svalbard is undoubtedly one of the best.

What makes it so unique is its remote location and Arctic environment. However, if you’re willing to brave the cold, then you’ll certainly be rewarded.

Svalbard is an archipelago located far north of mainland Norway. This island area offers a unique and unforgettable adventure, thanks to its rugged Arctic landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Visitors can explore glaciers, fjords, and mountains, often encountering polar bears, walruses, and reindeer along the way. The Midnight Sun in summer provides endless daylight for exploring, while the Northern Lights in winter create a magical display.

Activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and boat tours offer exciting ways to experience this remote region. Despite its isolation, Svalbard is surprisingly accessible, with regular flights from Oslo and Tromsø.

When planning a trip to Norway, most people try to fit in a visit to Pulpit Rock. And who can blame them? The Pulpit Rock hike is amazing. However, if you’re after a lesser-known (but still impressive) rock formation, then be sure to visit Marmorslottet, or "the Marble Castle".

This is a unique natural wonder located near Mo i Rana in the Helgeland region. The rock has been carved by the river over thousands of years, creating smooth, white marble formations that resemble a fairytale castle.

The hike to Marmorslottet is relatively short and accessible, making it a perfect day trip from Mo i Rana. The surrounding area also has a few other great attractions, such as the Arctic Circle monument and the stunning Svartisen glacier.

The surreal beauty of Marmorslottet and its serene setting make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and avid photographers.

Åna-Sira is a picture-perfect village situated on the border between Rogaland and Vest-Agder counties. This hidden gem is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect escape for those seeking absolute tranquillity and natural beauty.

The village is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Whether you want to go hiking or kayaking in Norway, then this is a perfect spot. Maybe you just want to sit back and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere? It’s ideal for that too.

One of the main attractions near Åna-Sira is the Brufjell Cliffs, where you can hike up to see unique rock formations and enjoy stunning views of the coastline.

We’d recommend staying at the Øvstefjellså farm for an authentic experience - complete with traditional Norwegian hospitality and breathtaking surroundings.

Gamle Strynefjellsvegen is a historic mountain road that stretches for 27 kilometres through some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes. This is not as much a destination as a detour, but if you’re on a road trip through Norway, then we highly recommend it.

This scenic route, originally built in the 19th century, winds through rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush valleys. To access the road, you’ll need to turn off the main route, making it a quieter and slower way to explore the region.

Feel free to go wild camping along Gamle Strynefjellsvegen to fully immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquillity of the mountains.

Visiting Norway is all about the fjords. While the list of the best fjords in Norway includes some seriously popular destinations, there are some more unique places like Hjørundfjord.

This lesser-known, but still stunning, fjord is located in the Sunnmøre region. Unlike the more famous fjords, Hjørundfjord offers a quieter and more secluded experience, making it ideal for those seeking peace among the natural beauty.

The fjord is surrounded by towering mountains that rise straight from the water, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Hiking trails in the area offer spectacular views, with routes suitable for all levels of hikers.

One of the highlights for any visitor is the historic Hotel Union Øye, situated on the Norangsfjord, an arm of Hjørundfjord. This charming hotel provides a luxurious base for exploring the region and enjoying the serene fjord views.

Mosjøen is a pretty little town in the heart of Northern Norway. It’s often overlooked by travellers, but we think that the town’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is well worth the visit.

The town’s historic Sjøgata Street features well-preserved wooden houses and vibrant arts and crafts shops. This gives you a great glimpse into Norway’s past. Mosjøen is also a gateway to the beautiful Helgeland region, with plenty of awesome opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby fjords.

The scenic Helgeland stairs, with over 3,000 steps, lead to spectacular views of the surrounding landscape (if you’re brave enough to reach the top!).

Hardangervidda is Europe’s largest mountain plateau and one of Norway’s most impressive natural areas. Even with this title, it’s still one of the more unique places to visit in Norway as far too many travellers miss it.

This vast and rugged landscape is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including one of the largest populations of wild reindeer.

The plateau offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities, from multi-day hiking trips to fishing and bird watching. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for hikers of all levels, while still offering stunning views and a great sense of remoteness.

Driving up over Hardangervidda or taking the ferry to Mogen provides easy access to this incredible wilderness, where you can truly escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Sørøya, Norway’s fourth-largest island, is a hidden paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Located in Finnmark County, this remote island offers pristine wilderness and dramatic coastal landscapes. The express boat from Hammerfest to Akkarfjord provides easy access to Sørøya, where you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and bird-watching in a serene setting.

The island’s rugged terrain and untouched beauty make it an ideal destination for anyone wanting to escape the crowds and experience the wild side of Norway. The friendly locals and traditional Norwegian hospitality add to the charm of this unique destination.

The Helgeland Coast, also known as Helgelandskysten, is a stunning stretch of coastline in Northern Norway. The coastline is dotted with thousands of islands, fjords, and picturesque fishing villages. It’s the ultimate Norwegian travel destination - yet it doesn’t get hit by the regular tourist crowd.

This area is perfect for a summer road trip or cycling adventure, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. Some highlights around the Helgeland Coast include the scenic Kystriksveien road, the UNESCO-listed Vega Archipelago, and the charming town of Brønnøysund.

If you’re interested in experiencing Norway’s coastal beauty without the summer crowds, then this is the place to go.

Grimstad, located in the southern part of Norway, is a beautiful seaside town known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and beautiful coastal scenery. It’s one of the most unique places to visit in Norway if you’re after a truly authentic Southern Norway experience.

This town is a favourite summer destination for Norwegians, with its relaxing atmosphere and variety of outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy boat rides to the many tiny islands dotting the coast, buy fresh seafood at the local market, and explore the charming downtown area with its cafes and shops. There are plenty of outstanding accommodation options available around the town.

Exploring these hidden gems allows you to experience Norway’s incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventures without the usual crowds, making your journey truly unique and memorable. We’d highly recommend adding any of these destinations to your Norwegian itinerary.

Looking for the best way to experience Norway’s exciting landscapes? Check out our expert-guided Norway tours for an unforgettable adventure.