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20 of the most Instagrammable places in Norway

With its glittering fjords, sandy white beaches and dramatic snow-capped peaks, Norway is one of Europe’s most spectacular destinations. From Geiranger to Loen to Svalbard, it’s packed with photo opportunities waiting to happen. So, grab your camera, and get ready to capture some unforgettable moments.


Don’t forget, book your flights with Norwegian

1. Loen

The picturesque village of Loen is nestled below the great Jostedalsbreen Glacier, in Nordfjord. Dubbed ‘Norway’s Instagram village’, it’s a photographers dream.

For the best views of the stunning landscape, head to the top of Mount Hoven. You can reach it via the Loen Skylift. One of the steepest cable cars in the world, it takes just five minutes to get to the top.

If you’re up for a challenge, there’s another way to get to get there – by the Via Ferrata. Italian for ‘iron path,’ a Via Ferrata is a route on a mountain face equipped with steel cables, ladders, and fixed anchors. These attachments make it possible for climbers to make their way up and down tough terrain. As part of the Via Ferrata route, you’ll cross Gjølmunne Bridge, the longest Via Ferrata bridge in Europe (at 120 metres long).

If you choose the Via Ferrata, be warned – it’s not for the faint hearted!

Once you reach the top of Mount Hoven, take some well deserved time to rest and refuel at the Hoven Restaurant.

If you don’t like heights, there’s plenty to do on the ground in Loen. Why not rent kayaks, rowboats or fishing equipment at the Sande campsite and enjoy some peace and quiet on the crystal-clear lake?

Fly to Ålesund and drive for 2.5 hours

2. ‘Under’: the world’s largest underground restaurant 

Looking for a once-in-a-liftetime culinary experience? Under is the place to go. Located in Lindesnes, in Southern Norway, this incredible Michelin-starred restaurant, (which doubles up as a marine research centre) is the world’s largest underwater restaurant. Submerged five metres below sea level, it offers diners a unique window onto the seabed.

The striking architecture, beautiful interior, and gourmet food have made it an international sensation, with Forbes magazine hailing it as “one the of most remarkable restaurants of newer time”, on their list of the 10 coolest places to eat in 2020.

If you manage to snag a table, (there’s a six-month waiting list), you’ll enjoy a mouth-watering, 18-course tasting menu comprised of the finest Nordic ingredients.

The perfect location for your next Instagram picture, Under is not to be missed.

Fly to Kristiansand and drive for 1.5 hours

3. Treetop cabins in the fjord of Oslo

Fancy a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city? These treetop cabins at Oslofjord are just the ticket.

Nestled 100 metres above sea level, there are five cabins to choose from. Each is unique in design but they all have spectacular views of the fjord and surrounding countryside.

If your Insta feed is crying out for some spectacular snaps of nature, wildlife, and amazing sunsets, this is the place to get them.

Book your stay in a “hyttetur” (cosy cabin in nature). Tip: One of the cabins, Ugleredet, is step-free, making it accessible for wheelchair users.

Fly to Oslo and drive for 1.5 hours

If treetop cabins aren’t your thing, maybe one of these spectacular hotels in Norway will float your boat. 

4. Geiranger

If you like the sound of snow-covered mountain peaks, wild waterfalls and lush, green vegetation, add UNESCO-listed Geiranger to your Instagram bucket list. Located at the end of the Geirangerfjord, it’s affectionately known as “the pearl of the fjords”.

Whether you fancy hiking, kayaking, canyoning or zip lining, you can do it all, surrounded by the most magnificent scenery. Or you can take a leisurely boat trip and watch the cruise ships make their way along the narrow fjords.

While you’re in Geiranger, be sure to visit Trollstigen. You can read about it below (tip number 11).

Fly to Ålesund and drive for 2 hours

5. Hovdsundet

Hovdsundet is a secluded beach in the pretty town of Bodø, just above the Arctic Circle.

A popular tourist destination, the scenery is breathtaking – we’re talking pristine white beaches, turquoise waters as far as the eye can see, and gorgeous mountain views in every direction. If you’re lucky you might spot an eagle or two.

Guaranteed to brighten up your ‘gram, Hovdsundet is not to be missed!

Tip: If you can’t get enough of the sandy stuff, check out the 15 best beaches in Norway.

Fly to Bodø and drive for 30 minutes. Then hike about 1.5 hours through hilly terrain.

6. Svolværgeita 

Another top spot for a picture is Svolværgeita (the goat): two rock formations shaped like goat horns that tower 150m above Svolvær and Vestfjord in the Lofoten Islands.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are a number of climbing routes up the mountainside, but it’s a challenging climb that requires equipment and a guide. If you brave it however, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of Svolvær and out across the sea. It makes for a spectacular photo.

If Svolværgeita is too daunting, you’ll get some equally impresive pictures in Svolvær, a picturesque fishing village with old piers, traditional fisherman’s huts (‘rorbuer’), and an impressive number of restaurants, serving up delicious local delicacies.

Tip: Lofoten is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Norway. The jagged mountains, surf-swept beaches and rare wildlife will take your breath away.

Fly to Bodø and take a ferry to Moskenes. It takes just over 3 hours. 

7. Nidarosdomen

If you’re interested in architecture and history, Nidarosdomen in Trondheim, is a must-see.

One of the largest medieval churches in the Nordic countries, it’s built over the burial site of King Olav II, (the patron saint of Norway), making it an important place of pilgrimage.

This intricately decorated gothic masterpiece will have you snapping away. Be sure to get a shot of the sculpture of the winged archangel Michael at the top of the north tower. Its face is modelled on Bob Dylan!

Wondering what else there is to do in the city? Find some top tips in this article: Discovering Trondheim: 14 top things to do.

Fly to Trondheim

8. Røros 

UNESCO-listed Røros is an old copper mining town in central Norway. One of the oldest towns of wooden houses in Europe, it’s packed with history, and unique photo opportunities!

Take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the timber houses, numerous workshops (which sell locally made ceramics and handicrafts) and Røros Church. And a visit to one of the copper mines is a must. This guided tour of Røros museum and Olav’s Mine will walk you through 300 years of mining history.

If you’re peckish after the tour, make a beeline for Vertshuset Røros Restaurant. Røros is one of Norway’s leading regions for locally produced food, and Vertshuset serves up some of the best.

If you fancy a change of scenery after lunch, Northern Europe’s largest desert (Kvitsanden) is located just outside the town centre.

Fly to Trondheim and drive for 2.5 hours

9. Kjeragbolten

Kjeragbolten is a boulder wedged in a crevice in the Kjerag mountain, suspended above a 984-metre abyss. A picture-perfect geological wonder, it’s one of the most instagrammable places in Norway.

If you want a shot on the rock, be prepared for an 11km hike, 800 metres up the mountain. Bear in mind, you need to be reasonably fit, as the hike is steep in places.

Make it to the top and magnificent views over Lysebotn and Kjeragbolten will be your reward.

Allow between 6 – 10 hours for the round trip.

Fly to Stavanger and drive for 2 hours

10. Svalbard

Want an other wordly experience? Visit Svalbard. This unique archipelago, with it’s vast expanse of glaciers, ice fields and frozen tundra, is a magical arctic wilderness.

Home to arctic foxes, reindeer and more polar bears than people, it’s like nowhere else on earth, making it a popular destination for influencers.

There are loads of ways to experience arctic nature and culture in Svalbard. You can walk on a glacier, explore the magical ice caves and enjoy a thrilling snowmobiling adventure, to name a few. And if you’re hankering for a shot of the magnificent Northern Lights, there’s nowhere better to get it.

Fly to Longyearbyen

11. Trollstigen

If you’re in Geiranger, take a trip to Trollstigen (the troll path) – a hair raising mountain pass that twists through eleven hairpin bends up a steep mountain side in the Romsdalen valley.

If you’re brave enough to take on the pass, you’ll be rewarded with views of lush valleys, cascading waterfalls and colossal mountains in every direction. 

From the vantage point at the top, you’ll get a fabulous bird’s eye view of the road, and some awesome pictures for Instagram. 

Tip: The road is closed in the winter months. 

Fly to Molde and drive for 2.5 hours

12. Rampestreken 

If you’re visiting the beautiful alpine city of Åndalsnes (and have a head for heights!), set some time aside to hike up the Romsdalstrappa trail to Rampestreken view point – a 20-metre steel observation platform that juts out of the mountainside. Standing at the edge of the deck, 537 metres above sea level, you’ll feel like you’re hovering over Åndalsnes and the fjord below. It’s guaranteed to give you butterflies.

The hike is steep, but the views are worth it. Needless to say, a selfie is mandatory!

Once you reach Rampestreken, it’s another 15 – 20 minutes to Nesaksla, which offers more fantastic views.

The trip to Rampestreken is 1.7 km long and takes about 2 hours.

Fly to Molde and drive for 1.5 hours. Or fly to Ålesund and drive for 2 hours

13. Bergen

Another essential stop on your Insta tour of Norway is Bergen. Among the must-see attractions is the historic harbour district of Bryggen. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Northern Europe’s oldest port cities. 

A photo with the dock, boats and colourful buildings will make a fabulous addition to your Insta feed.

There are plenty of other things to do in Bergen. Check out this post for more great tips: The 15 best things to do in Bergen.

Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through the tiny passages behind the dock and you’ll discover a host of hidden treasures such as galleries, boutiques and ateliers.

Fly to Bergen

14. Preikestolen 

Preikestolen (or ‘Pulpit Rock’) is a steep cliff which rises 604 metres above the Lysefjorden. Described by Lonely Planet as ‘one of the world’s most spectacular viewing points,’ it’s a photographers dream.

If the scenery looks familiar, its because Preikestolen featured in “Mission: Impossible – Fallout”. 

The hike takes about two hours each way, so be sure to bring comfortable clothes, shoes and plenty of water.

The views at the top will not disappoint!

Fly to Stavanger and drive for 45 minutes

15. Flor & Fjære, Stavanger

If you’re into flowers, palms and exotic plants, be sure to visit Flor & Fjære, a 12.5 acre garden paradise on the windswept island of Sør-Hidle, in the county of Rogaland. 

Each spring, 50,000 flowers are planted. By the time the gardens open in May, the picturesque gardens are ablaze with colour.

But it’s not just the flowers that make Flor & Fjære worth visiting. The gourmet restaurant serves up mouth-watering dishes made from local ingredients, which diners can enjoy while admiring magnificent panoramic views of the fjord and mountains.

The photos are guaranteed to brighten up your Insta feed!

Tip: The gardens are open from May to September only.

From Strandkaien in Stavanger, it takes 30 minutes by boat to reach Flor & Fjære

Fly to Stavanger and drive for 10 minutes to Strandkaien

16. Ishavskatedralen

Ishavskatedralen, or ‘The Arctic Cathedral’ is one of Norway’s most photographed landmarks, and it’s easy to see why. One of the most stunning architectural structures in Tromsø, it blends in perfectly with the surrounding winter landscape.

In addition to being a functioning parish church, Ishavskatedralen is a popular concert venue thanks to its wonderful acoustics.

It’s most impressive when lit up, so visit at night for the ultimate Insta pic.

Need more inspiration for your trip to Tromsø? Take a look at these 12 best things to do in Tromsø.

Fly to Tromsø 

17. Jostedalsbreen

Jostedalsbreen National Park is home to the largest glacier in mainland Europe. Covering 500 m2, it separates two of the longest fjords in the world, the Sognefjord and the Nordfjord, and is spread over four municipalities. To give you an idea of its size, if you were to melt the ice of Jostedalsbreen glacier, it would supply the whole of Norway with water for 100 years!

You can walk on the glacier, but we recommend you do so with a knowledgeable guide on an organised tour.

If you’d rather stay on terra firma, you’ll get an awesome panoramic of the valleys and the glacier framed by soaring mountain peaks. It’s an awe-inspiring sight.

Whatever you do, make sure your camera is fully charged, as the photo opportunities are endless.

If you’re a fan of glaciers, another insta-worthy spot to visit on your Norwegian travels, is Svartisen Glacier in Bodø.

Fly to Ålesund and drive for 3 hours

18. Trolltunga

Hovering 700 metres above Ringedalsvatne lake, Trolltunga (or troll’s tongue) is one of Norway’s most awe-inspiring rock formations.

Carved by an icecap that once covered most of Scandinavia, travellers from all over the world come here to nab a picture of themselves on the edge of the world-famous cliff.

The hike to reach Trolltunga is long and demanding (allow 8 to 12 hours) and you need to be in good physical shape to attempt it, but the views are nothing short of spectacular.

Fly to Bergen and drive for 3.5 hours

19. Trones Eye Glass Igloo

If you enjoy glamping, be sure to spend a night at Trones Eye. An extraordinary glass igloo glamping experience on the edge of the shimmering Trondheim Fjord, it takes the phrase ‘getting back to nature’ to a whole new level.

After a long day of hiking and exploring, you can capture some incredible photos of the Trøndelag landscape as the sun goes down from teh comfort of youand fall asleep to the soothing sound of birdsong and water lapping against the rocks.

After a dreamy night’s sleep under the stars, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast of coffee, juice, and freshly baked buns delivered straight to your igloo.

The igloo sleeps up to four guests, and is equipped with luxury beds, lighting and heating.

Book your stay here and immerse yourself in nature.

Fly to Trondheim and drive for 1 hour

20. Stokkøya

Want to get away from it all? Take a day trip to Stokkøya – a picture-perfect island in Trondelag, Central Norway.

It’s the perfect location for surfing, diving, hiking or enjoying the tranquillity of the pristine beaches.

Whatever you do, there’s no shortage of Instagrammable photo opportunities, so bring a spare SD card!

When you’re had enough peace and quiet, head to Trondheim. Not only is this vibrant city packed with things to do, it was chosen as the European Region of Gastronomy in 2022, so is a haven for foodies.

Stokkøya is 2.5 hours from Trondheim by car

Fly to Trondheim

Feeling inspired to level up your Instagram feed with stunning pictures of Norway? Take a look at the destinations we fly to and start planning your trip!