Norway

North of mainland Norway, en route to the North Pole, lays the archipelago of Svalbard (formerly known as Spitsbergen). This group of islands enjoys significantly higher temperatures than other Arctic areas and provides a home for an impressive variety of wildlife - including the majestic Polar Bear. We offer a range of Arctic cruises of various durations and routes, providing an unbeatable opportunity to view polar bears in their natural habitat along with reindeers, whales and myriad seabirds. You will also experience the dramatic Arctic landscape of glistening glaciers, massive icebergs and deep blue fjords. Take a look at our Realm of the Polar Bear, Realm of the Polar Bear in Depth and Arctic Highlights polar cruises for all the available options.

• Capital city: Oslo
• Population: 5,165,802 (2013 census)
• Size of country: 323,802 sq km
• Currency: Norwegian Krone
• Power supply: 220 volts
• Sockets: round, two-pin European
• Language: Norwegian (Bokmal and Nynorsk are the two official versions of Norwegian)
• Time difference: GMT +1 hour
• Visas: Visas are not required for UK citizens to travel to Norway.
• Religion: Church of Norway (Evangelical Lutheran - official) 85.7%, Pentecostal 1%, Roman Catholic 1%, other Christian 2.4%, Muslim 1.8%, other 8.1% (2004)
• Popular dishes: Fish dishes are unsurprisingly very popular in Norway – particular made with salmon and cod. Norway’s smoked salmon is renowned the world over for its flavour and quality.
• Popular drinks: Aquavit is a potent potato and caraway liquor
• Did you know: There are more Norwegian descendants living in the United States than there are Norwegians in Norway (6 mill. vs. 4,8 million), this is in large part due to mass emigration to America in the late 19th century.
• FCDO advice: FCDO travel advice

When is the best time to travel to Norway?

Our climate charts will give you an idea of the weather conditions in Norway. The main tourist season runs from mid-June to mid-August, though many hiking routes do not open until late June-July. At this time weather conditions should be at their best, though it can be busy during the school holidays. Days are long. Above the Arctic circle, the Midnight Sun illuminates the scenery throughout the day and night, as the sun does not set during mid-summer.

In the winter, in the far north, the Northern Lights provide a dazzling display in the sky. Winter can be cold, particularly inland areas. Temperatures are milder on the coast.

If you can't make the dates of our group departures, then take a private departure on dates to suit you, or we can create a Tailor Made holiday to Norway, especially for you and your family or friends.