September 2022

The 10 Best Free Museums in Oslo

Leave a Comment / Art & Culture, Norway | Articles, Scandinavia /
Free Museums in Oslo

Oslo is a city with a rich cultural history and many beautiful museums to explore. Oslo’s museums are of great historical value, which makes them worth visiting for the stories they tell. But at first glance, visiting a museum in Oslo seems intimidating if you are on a budget. Many museums in Oslo have free entry, but some charge an entrance fee. To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of the best cheap or free museums in Oslo that won’t break the bank. The museums listed below will provide guests with plenty of entertainment. Because art in Norway is based on artists’ images, thoughts, and ideas, it plays a vital role in people’s awareness of the world. So if you have time, you should visit a free museum in Oslo. The Reasons Why you Should Visit Oslo Oslo is a city that’s been making many top ten lists lately, and with good reason. Beyond the charming cobblestone streets, fjords, and wooden rowboats that give it that quintessential Scandinavian feel, Oslo has a lot to offer. From the vibrant art scene and countless festivals to the fact that it’s one of the greenest capitals in Europe, there are many reasons why you should put Oslo at the top of your bucket list. The natural landscapes are particularly stunning, so you can enjoy the lush forests while hiking across trails and enjoying the majestic fjords. Finally, museums in Oslo offer a variety of exhibits. So, a visit to Oslo guarantees hours of fun, entertainment, and learning. Top 10 Free Museums in Oslo you Should Visit Oslo is one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia and is a perfect place to spend a holiday. The city has cultural attractions for all age groups. If you are a history lover on a budget, you will love this city because it is home to some of the best entrance-free museums in Norway. Moreover, Oslo has some of the oldest churches and buildings that have been preserved for centuries. Here is the list of the 10 best free Museums in Oslo: Intercultural Museum The Intercultural Museum is a migration museum located in the most diverse district of Oslo. The museum displays a wide range of visual art and documents. It is the most popular free museum in Oslo at the present time. It aims to increase understanding and respect for cultural diversity in Norway. The museum also offers guided tours around the historical, multicultural district of Grønland. The Intercultural Museum has been awarded by the Norwegian Museums Association for its work with minorities. It operates from Tuesday to Sunday and the entrance is free for everybody. Labour Museum The Labour Museum is the tiniest and most charming free museum in Oslo. It is located in a former industrial area and showcases the history of the industrial revolution in Norway. The exhibits related to the history of labor in Norway are the most impressive part of the museum. You can combine a quick visit to the museum with a pleasant walk by the Akerselva River nearby. This is a free-entry museum, but it only operates on weekends. The Film Museum This museum specializes in the history of cinema in Norway and its development over time. Therefore, it focuses on the evolution of technology in Scandinavian film-making. This museum is located in Filmens Hus and the entrance is free for everybody. The Kinematografteateret cinema is also nearby, where Norwegian films are shown every day. This museum offers guided tours related to Norwegian cinema, film-making, and photography. There are even some engaging temporary exhibitions at the museum that change every few months. Finally, clips from classic Norwegian and modern short films are shown non-stop! Juli-Senteret Museum Juli-Senteret (22 July Center) is a museum dedicated to the knowledge and memory of the 2011 terrorist attacks in Oslo and Utøya. The center has been open since 2015 for this purpose. It is located on the first floor of a building in Regjeringskvartaler and features permanent and temporary photographic exhibitions. This is one more free-entry museum in Oslo and operates daily. It is worth paying a visit since it is the only museum in Scandinavia on this subject. Norwegian Center for Design and Architecture The Norwegian Center for Design and Architecture is a hall, built to host exhibitions related to design and architecture. This building has many interesting design exhibits, as well as a design shop and restaurant. Doga’s purpose is to enhance cooperation between Norwegian talents, businesses, and the public sector. For that reason, the entrance is free for everybody. Oslo Cathedral Oslo Cathedral (Oslo Domkirke) is a Lutheran church which is located in the center of the city. It was built in 1697 and restored in 1950. This Cathedral features a richly decorated ceiling and a beautiful altar area. Presently, the art is one of the Cathedral’s main pillars, where visitors can see some unique religious artifacts. Also, it is open daily and the entrance is free for everybody. For these reasons, it is included in our list of free museums in Oslo. Museum of Architecture The Oslo Museum of Architecture is the best place to visit in Norway if you want to know about the country’s architectural history. The building was built by Christian Heinrich Grosch in 1830. But it started operating as a museum in 2008. This building is next to Stortinget metro station. It houses more than 300,000 artifacts and an impressive photo collection related to Norwegian architecture. It’s one of the best cheap museums in Oslo, and it’s free every Thursday! Olso City Museum The Oslo City Museum is another prominent museum in Oslo. It illustrates the history and the cultural and commercial development of the capital of Norway. Above all, the museum is famous for its library and impressive photo collection. It is one of the best museums in Oslo you can visit for free at the present time. The entrance is free every Saturday, so schedule a weekend visit and

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The Ultimate Trondheim Travel Guide

Leave a Comment / City Experience, Norway | Articles, Scandinavia /
Trondheim

With its charming cobblestone streets, world-class museums, and unique architectural style, the Norwegian city of Trondheim is a popular destination for tourists and students. The city is home to two high-quality universities and has some of the best schools in the country. With a population of fewer than 200,000 people, Trondheim is still small enough to explore it all on foot (or by bike if you are feeling adventurous). The city center is compact and walkable; most attractions are within the same neighborhood. It has everything from museums to music venues, cafes, and restaurants. Several parks are within walking distance of each other for those who enjoy strolling or having a picnic in the beautiful scenery. Trondheim also has a lot of unique traditions that make it distinct from other cities in Norway. Here is your Trondheim travel guide. Why Should you Visit Trondheim? Trondheim is a beautiful city with a long history. It attracts visitors from all over the world. The city has a lot to offer, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. Here are the 3 top reasons why you should visit Trondheim: The unique atmosphere of Trondheim Trondheim is a great place to visit for its unique atmosphere and mixture of an old and new architecture. The city has preserved many old buildings, giving it an authentic feel. You will be surrounded by some of the most beautiful churches, historical buildings, and museums in Norway. Trondheim is small, so all attractions are within a short walking distance from the city center. The nightlife of Trondheim Ιf you are looking for something more intriguing than just sightseeing, Trondheim can offer you various nightlife options. The city center has many bars and clubs that stay open until late at night. Alternatively, if you prefer to relax and “take it easy”, you can head to the Torvet area. You will find restaurants that serve traditional Norwegian cuisine, such as fish soup or meatballs with mashed potatoes. Outdoor sports in Trondheim If you are an adventurous person, then Trondheim is the place to be! Many outdoor activities can be done here, such as kayaking, biking, or hiking. If you are interested in these activities, you can join one of the tours. Experienced staff will teach you how to use equipment and stay safe while doing these activities properly. When to Visit Trondheim The best time of year to visit Trondheim is during the summer months. This is when most tourists come to the city, and there are lots of activities and festivals happening throughout the season. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the peace while in town, try visiting in June or September. These months are less busy than July or August but still warm enough for outdoor activities like hiking and biking through the scenic countryside around Trondheim. The Best Things to Do in Trondheim If you’re looking for the top things to do in Trondheim, here are our top recommendations: Visit Bakklandet Bakklandet is the first neighborhood in Trondheim that you should visit. This area is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. You will find everything from fast food to high-end cuisine! The famous restaurant Bakklandet Kjøtt has been open since the 1960s but recently moved to a new location closer to the city center. Finally, Bakklandet offers some of the best views of Trondheim. Visit Gamle Bybroa (the Old Town Bridge) Gamle Bybroa (the Old Town Bridge) is located on top of the old bridge between Bakklandet and the city center of Trondheim. This old bridge is one of the most popular highlights of Trondheim. You can take some great pictures from this spot, looking down at the water below or across from the other side. There are also several great restaurants nearby if you want something to eat before or after your photo session! Visit Nidaros Cathedral Nidaros Cathedral is the most visited site in Trondheim and Norway’s second most visited attraction. It’s worth a visit, both for its architecture and history. The cathedral was built on the site where Olav Haraldsson was baptized in 997 AD by Bishop Grimkell. The cathedral also contains the burial crypt of King Olav II, canonized as St Olav after his death in 1030 AD. He was the first saint of the Norwegian Church, and his remains are still preserved in the cathedral’s reliquary. Visit Lian by tram The Lian Skips & Transport museum is on top of a cliff overlooking Trondheim harbor. A funicular railway can take you up to this historic shipyard. You can see traditional wooden boats being constructed and repaired. You can also see some typical Norwegian buildings from earlier times! Visit Bymarka Bymarka is a nature reserve in Trondheim that is perfect for hiking. Numerous trails can be found there, ranging from easy to complex. So whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for somewhere to spend time outdoors with your friends, there’s something here for everyone. Visit Kristiansten Fortress Kristiansten Fortress is an old fortress on top of a hill overlooking the city. It’s a fantastic place to go for panoramic views of Trondheim and great photo opportunities! You can also see old cannons from World War II when you visit this place. Watch the Northern Lights The Northern Lights are a popular attraction in Norway. So it would be a shame not to see them while you’re here! The best time to watch them is from September to March. However, they may appear earlier or later if there is enough sun. It’s best to go out into nature for this one rather than try to stay in Trondheim. Visit a trendy coffee shop in Trondheim Are you looking for some caffeine or want to try some new types of coffee? Several spots around town offer everything from espressos to cold brews and kombucha teas. You can even order nitro cold brews at some spots! And if you want something sweet with your drink, there’s no shortage of

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The Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Denmark

1 Comment / Denmark | Articles, Nature Attractions, Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia /
Northern Lights Denmark

Denmark is a great place to see the Northern lights, but it’s not an easy thing to do. This year, there were plenty of opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis, but we had some trouble capitalizing on them. The best part about the Northern lights in Denmark is that you can see them from your home. On the nights with the highest probability of spotting them, the cities turn off the streetlights for two hours, and you can see them even in town. You can also go on special tours to spots outside the city where you know they’ll be exceptionally bright or where there is less light pollution. Does Copenhagen have Northern Lights? The northern lights are very rare in Copenhagen. They can be seen from time to time, but not too often. The city is situated in the southern part of Scandinavia where the northern lights are rarely visible. The only places in Denmark where you can see the Northern lights are along the west coast and some islands in the southwest of Jutland. What are the Best Months to See the Northern Lights in Denmark? The best time to see the Northern Lights in Denmark is between October and February. During winter, the weather conditions are most favorable for viewing this natural phenomenon. The Northern Lights result from charged particles from the sun entering our atmosphere. When these particles collide with gases, they create an electromagnetic radiation display that can be seen in the sky. The Northern lights vary in intensity depending on the amount of activity on the sun and how many particles reach our planet. By far, the best time to see the Northern lights in Denmark is during the winter months. Fewer clouds and more darkness, make it easier to spot them in the night sky. Where Can you See the Northern Lights in Denmark? The Northern lights or Aurora Borealis is a phenomenon visible from just a few places in the north. Some places are better than others, but if you want to see them, your best bet is to go to Norway. If you are not interested in using all that money on a plane ticket and hotel room, there are some great places in Denmark where you can see the lights too: Aalborg This small city is located in Jutland, in northern Denmark. It is home to some architectural masterpieces designed by Utzon and Aalto. Aalborg is also favored for its beaches, which are popular among tourists during summer. In winter, the beaches around Aalborg become an ideal place to spot the Northern Lights in Denmark. However, there are no guarantees that Aurora Borealis will be visible from Aalborg even if the circumstances are ideal. Skagen Skagen is one of the few places that offer a chance to spot the Northern lights in Denmark. The winter months are the best time to view the Aurora Borealis in Skagen. However, just like Aalborg – even under perfect circumstances – there are no guarantees that the lights will be visible. A boat tour can be booked at the port of Skagen if the weather allows it. These tours usually last 2-3 hours, during which you will stop in different locations to look for the northern lights. You may also see other beautiful sights such as stars and planets or constellations. Grenen Grenen is the northernmost point of Denmark and the point where the seas of Skagerak and Kattegat meet. The beach offers rare natural beauty and panoramic views of the sea and sky. Grenen beach can also deliver fantastic views of the Northern Lights during winter, and its surroundings are breathtaking at sunset or sunrise. Samsø This island is among the best places to see the Northern Lights in Denmark. It is a few kilometers off the Jutland peninsula and it’s the first renewable island in the world. Featuring picturesque small villages and landscapes, Samsø provides plenty of options for a quality stay while waiting for Aurora Borealis. So, if you are visiting Denmark and want to see the lights, this is an excellent option! Where Can you See the Northern Lights in Faroe Islands? The Faroe Islands are a North Atlantic Archipelago and a part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Because of its geographical location, it is also a great place to experience the phenomenon of the Northern lights. In this context, here are the best places in Faroe Islands to enjoy the Aurora Borealis in all its glory: Gásadalur The place to see Northern Lights in Denmark is the village of Gásadalur. It is located on an island off the south coast of Iceland. The island has 100 people, and it is a heaven for birdwatchers, who come here to observe puffins, guillemots, and eider ducks. One of the focal attractions here is the birds. But what about the Northern Lights? If you are lucky enough to see Aurora Borealis from here, it is a spectacular sight indeed. You can still stay at one of the beautiful hotels on this island or rent a cabin to spend a few days there. Lake Sørvágsvatn Another place that you should go if you want to see Northern Lights in the Faroe Islands is Lake Sørvágsvatn, which is located near the town of Skálafjørður. Mountains and hills surround this lake. So if you can find yourself on top of one of these hills while waiting for Aurora Borealis, you will have a fantastic view! Bøur Village There are many areas you can watch the lights from your home or bed if you don’t want to sleep outside. But if you want to experience them in their full glory, there’s only one option: you’ll have to get out into nature and sleep under open skies. There are plenty of places to do this — from campsites to hotels — but we recommend Bøur Village in Skálafjørður Bay on Streymoy Island. This village is right next to an area called Gjógv, which has been declared

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Food in Scandinavia – Our Guide to Scandinavian Cuisine

Leave a Comment / Food & Drink, Scandinavia /
food in Scandinavia

Norway, Denmark, and Sweden are commonly referred to as Scandinavia. These countries may have a lot of things in common, but their cuisine differs quite a lot from each other. The food in Scandinavia is usually fresh and healthy; most meals can be prepared in a few minutes. The cuisine of Scandinavia is a unique mix of cultural influences from its neighboring countries and indigenous ingredients, resulting in a wide variety of tastes and styles. If you’re curious about the food in Scandinavia, read on to learn more. Top Food You Should Have A Taste Of In Scandinavia The Nordic countries’ cuisine is characterized by using simple and natural ingredients that often taste better. It is also known for its high-quality, locally sourced food products such as meat, fish, and dairy. The traditional Nordic diet is based on seasonal products and local ingredients. In addition, several traditional dishes have been passed down from generation to generation. Some of the most popular dishes in Scandinavia include: Smörgåstårta Smorgasbord is a traditional Swedish buffet meal, and it is served at restaurants, cafes, and parties. The name means “sandwich cake,” consisting of a layer of meat, such as sliced cold cuts or cured salmon, topped with vegetables, like pickled cucumbers or other types of salads, cheeses, and hams. A smörgåstårta can have up to five layers, and it’s among the most popular food in Scandinavia! Lohikeitto This is a Scandinavian soup made with fish broth and chunks of boiled whitefish. Lohi is the Finnish word for salmon. So some people make this soup using salmon instead of whitefish. Kanelsnegl The kanelsnegl is a Danish pastry made with a cinnamon twist, filled with whipped cream and vanilla custard, and topped with icing sugar. This is among the most popular pastries in Denmark, and it can be found in every bakery. Surströmming or Matjessill Surströmming or matjessill is a popular type of food in Scandinavia. It is a fermented Baltic herring that has been canned with lye to prevent putrefaction. It was developed by necessity because of the lack of refrigeration in the olden days when fish was caught during the winter months and needed to be preserved quickly. The cans are placed in barrels where they ferment for several months to several years, depending on the variety of fish used and personal preference. The taste is strong, pungent, and salty, with a hint of sweetness from the added sugar or molasses. It takes some time to get acclimatized, but once you have tried it, you can’t help but fall in love with it! Kvikk Lunsj Kvikk Lunsj is a Norwegian sweet and salty snack sold in almost every supermarket in Norway. It consists of a layer of chocolate and a layer of rice crisps, covered with a thin layer of chocolate and more coconut. Kvikk Lunsj means “quick lunch,” but it’s also a typical treat for children. This snack has been around since 1921 when it was first introduced by the Norwegian chocolate manufacturer Freia. It was initially intended as an energy bar for people who were out hiking and skiing, but now it’s also popular as an afternoon pick-me-up for adults! Pylsa (or Pulsa) The hamburger is already well known in most countries around the world, but there are some countries where the concept of a burger hasn’t been adopted yet. One of those countries is Norway! In Norway, they have their version of the hamburger called pylsa (or pulsa). A pylsa consists of minced pork or beef meat on a bun with mustard and raw onion. They have grilled meat over an open fire or on top of an electric grill before being placed between two slices. It can be grilled or fried and comes in beef and pork varieties. Gravlax Gravlax is the food you must try while visiting Sweden! This dish is made from raw salmon cured with salt and sugar until it becomes a paste. Spices such as dill and juniper berries are added along with peppercorns. The fish is then left in a cold environment for about two days so that it can be served with bread or crackers for breakfast or an appetizer for dinner. Ræstkjøt This is a dish you should try if you’re exploring the food in Scandinavia.Ræstkjøt is an Icelandic dish that consists of beef that has been hung and dried for many months or even years in a cold, dark space. The meat will then be hung in the open air or smoked to continue drying out. It is mainly served with potatoes and vegetables such as cabbage or carrots. Blåbärssoppa (Blueberry Soup) Scandinavians love their berries and make them into everything from desserts to pastries to soups. Blåbärssoppa is a traditional Swedish soup made with blueberries, cream, and sugar, and it’s usually served chilled on warm summer evenings. That’s a great choice if you want to try an alternative type of food in Scandinavia. Köttbullar (Meatballs) No matter where you go in Scandinavia, chances are there will be meatballs on the menu. They’re that popular! Typically made with ground beef or pork, these balls of meat are served either fried or baked with gravy. They can either serve as a main course or a snack. They’re also often served at smorgasbords. Smorgasbords are large buffets that typically include many different types of salads and appetizers along with other hot dishes. There are meatballs made from reindeer, moose, or elk meat instead of beef or pork. Smørrebrød This is a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich. It consists of slices of bread topped with various toppings such as meat and fish. The open-faced sandwiches can be served with beer or wine, which makes them even more delicious. Geothermal heated Rúgbrauð This type of bread is usually made in Iceland. It’s cooked inside an oven that uses volcanic steam to simmer the bread over many hours. This process allows the bread to absorb all the nutrients from the volcanic rock and underground water sources, making

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The Ultimate Guide to the Naeroyfjord in Norway

Leave a Comment / Nature Attractions, Norway | Articles, Scandinavia /
Naeroyfjord

The Naeroyfjord (Nærøyfjord) is situated in Vestland county, Norway, and is the most beautiful arm of the largest Sognefjord. It is surrounded by extraordinary natural wonders, such as steep mountains and deep valleys. The fjord is carved out of slate and granite, with gnarled black rocks rising from the sea. The mountains surrounding it are covered with trees, grass, and other vegetation. Getting around Naeroyfjord by boat or kayak is a lifetime Scandinavian experience. Getting to the Naeroyfjord The direct way to get to the Naeroyfjord is by boat. Several companies operate tours in this area, including Hurtigruten and Nordkapp Travel. These companies offer various tours, including visiting the Naeroyfjord as part of their itineraries. Some will only take you as far as Hellesylt, about halfway between Bergen and the Naeroyfjord. Other tours will take you from Bergen to Førde, just outside Ålesund on mainland Norway. Where to Stay You won’t have any trouble finding where to stay when visiting Naeroyfjord (Nærøyfjord). There are plenty of accommodation options (hotels, hostels, and Airbnb rooms) in the area surrounding the fjord. Some are located right at the coast, and their rooms offer stunning views of the Naeroyfjord. There are also some hotels further inland if you prefer not to be so close to nature or if you want something more luxurious than a hostel dormitory room. What to see at the Naeroyfjord The Naeroyfjord is a fjord in Norway surrounded by glaciers and mountains. Its name comes from the Norwegian word “naerøy,” which means “narrow island.” There are five main islands at the Naeroyfjord, from north to south: Snø, Bødalen, Tottan, Fjærland and Nautøy. The largest of these is Fjærland, which has a population of around 100. The Naeroyfjord is a popular destination for kayakers and people who enjoy cruising on the water. Activities at the Naeroyfjord The Naeroyfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a good reason. The fjord is home to a variety of wildlife, that you will find the chance to discover while enjoying any of your favorite activities. In the summer months, you can tour the islands by boat. In the winter months, you can go hiking. Some hiking trails are marked, but they’re not always easy to find. If you like fishing, there are also some good fishing spots in the area. Here are the ten most enjoyable activities to try while visiting this unique area: Kayaking Naeroyfjord is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in Norway. Kayakers can explore the fjord at their own leisurely pace, paddling through small coves on calm days or challenging themselves with more demanding rapids. The water is calm, and there are many places to stop for lunch or enjoy the scenery. You can also swim in the fjord if you’re brave enough! But we would not suggest that! The average temperature is 4 degrees throughout the year. Ice climbing Ice climbing is one of the most popular winter activities in Norway. The Naeroyfjord offers an abundance of frozen waterfalls formed over thousands of years by glacial movement. The ice formations create an ever-changing landscape, constantly evolving with each passing winter season. If you’re feeling adventurous, then try your hand at ice climbing! The ice is thick and strong enough! It won’t break under your weight, so there’s no fear of falling into freezing water. It’s also freezing, so dress accordingly or bring gloves if you don’t want to get frostbite! Hiking The hiking trails around the Naeroyfjord take you on a 4-5 hour walk with beautiful views of the mountains, waterfalls, and rivers. The hike starts at Fiskebøl and ends at Skageflå. You can try a shorter hike by the trek at Skageflå or by making a longer trek that goes further into the area of Dalsnibba. This hike is excellent for all ages because it’s not too challenging but neither too easy. There are some steep parts but nothing too extreme if you’re just starting with hiking or don’t want to climb too much. Dog sledding The best way to experience the Naeroyfjord area is by taking a dog sled ride with one of the local companies. You can either rent your dog sled or go on a guided tour with an experienced guide who will tell you about local history and culture while you glide across frozen lakes and snowy fields. Mountain biking The Naeroyfjord (Nærøyfjord) is an excellent location for mountain biking. Biking enthusiasts can enjoy several different cycling routes in the area. There are also several rental outlets to hire a bike from if you do not have one of your own. Rock climbing Rock climbing is popular in Naeroyfjord, with some of the best rock climbing sites in Norway located here. The main climbing site is at Stenskalv, close to the ferry pier at Laupstad. But there are also other areas where climbers can get their fix. A guide is required if you wish to climb difficult routes. They will be happy to show you around the area and help you find the route that fits your ability level. Fishing for salmon and trout The Naeroyfjord is rich in fish, especially salmon and trout. It is one of the best fishing destinations in Norway. In the summer, you can go fishing in the fjord, hire a boat, or participate in an organized fishing trip. Sailing the fjord in a yacht or a speedboat Naeroyfjord is one of the best sailing destinations in Norway. When it comes to sailing through this beautiful fjord, you can choose between two options: either rent a yacht or take part in an organized day trip by speedboat. Both options offer great opportunities for taking photos of the beautiful landscape from above water level and below it! Birdwatching The Naeroyfjord area is famous for its birdlife. There are more than 70 species of birds in the fjord. Several rare species such as the Great Cormorant, Little Grebe, and Black-throated Diver also live there. You can see them from

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