Eastern Norway, Norway Travel Guide

Discover Eastern Norway: Where majestic landscapes meet vibrant culture and rich history, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and urban delights.

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Eastern Norway

Eastern Norway is a region brimming with natural beauty, captivating history, and vibrant culture. This area is known for its stunning landscapes, from majestic mountains to serene lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are hiking through lush forests, skiing down pristine slopes, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the countryside, Eastern Norway offers an unforgettable experience. The region is home to Oslo, Norway's capital, where you can explore world-class museums, indulge in gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in the lively urban atmosphere. Don't miss the iconic Viking Ship Museum or a peaceful stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park. Beyond Oslo, charming towns like Lillehammer, known for its winter sports, and the picturesque coastal city of Fredrikstad await with their unique attractions and rich history. Eastern Norway's cultural heritage is also reflected in its numerous festivals, traditional crafts, and historic landmarks. Visit the ancient stave churches, which stand as a testament to Norway's medieval architecture and craftsmanship. The region's varied landscape and cultural offerings make it a perfect destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind and soak in the local culture.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Eastern Norway.

Check the local weather before planning your outdoor activities as conditions can change rapidly.
Purchase a travel pass in Oslo for easy access to public transport and discounted entry to major attractions.
Explore lesser-known hiking trails for a more serene experience away from the crowds.
Try local delicacies such as Rakfisk and Kjøttkaker for a true taste of Norwegian cuisine.
Visit during the off-peak season to enjoy the beauty of Eastern Norway without the tourist rush.

Top City Travel Guides in Eastern Norway

The cities of Eastern Norway, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Oslo

Bergen

Trondheim

Ålesund

Stavanger

Destinations in Eastern Norway

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Jotunheimen National Park

Bryggen, Bergen

Rauland

Preikestolen

Hardangervidda National Park

Explore Eastern Norway: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Eastern Norway

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Kistefos Museum

Explore the enchanting Kistefos Museum, where modern art meets historical charm amidst stunning natural landscapes.

4.6

Urnes Stave Church

Explore the stunning Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Norway, showcasing breathtaking wooden architecture and captivating history.

4.6

King's View

Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at King's View in Krokkleiva, Norway, a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.8

Langøyene

Explore Langøyene Island, a picturesque escape from Oslo with stunning landscapes, serene beaches, and exciting outdoor activities.

4.7

Best landmarks in Eastern Norway

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Oslo Opera House

Discover the architectural brilliance and cultural vibrancy of the Oslo Opera House, Norway's stunning performing arts venue on the waterfront.

4.7

The Vigeland Park

Explore Vigeland Park in Oslo, Norway – a stunning outdoor sculpture museum featuring over 200 masterpieces by Gustav Vigeland amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

4.7

North Cape

Experience the breathtaking beauty of North Cape, the dramatic northernmost point of mainland Europe, where the Arctic meets the sky.

4.7

Akershus Fortress

Explore the historical wonders and scenic beauty of Akershus Fortress in Oslo, a captivating blend of culture, history, and breathtaking views.

4.5

Best restaurants in Eastern Norway

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Den Glade Gris

Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Den Glade Gris – where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Oslo.

4.6

Lorry Restaurant

Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Lorry Restaurant in Oslo's Majorstuen district, where tradition meets modern dining.

4.1

Dinner Restaurant

Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Dinner Restaurant in Oslo—where tradition meets modernity in every dish.

4.5

Seaport Restaurant - Sørenga/Bjørvika

Experience exquisite dining at Seaport Restaurant in Oslo's scenic Sørenga/Bjørvika with diverse cuisines from Italian to Turkish.

4.5

Best bars in Eastern Norway

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Scotsman

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oslo at The Scotsman, a beloved pub offering great food, drinks, and live music in a lively atmosphere.

4.1

Crow Bar & Brewery

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and craft brews at Crow Bar & Brewery in Oslo, where local flavor meets a lively brewpub experience.

4.4

The Dubliner Folk Pub

Discover the spirit of Ireland in Oslo at The Dubliner Folk Pub, where great food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere await.

4.3

HIMKOK Storgata Destilleri

Discover the unique flavors of HIMKOK Storgata Destilleri, Oslo's premier cocktail bar and cider destination, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Eastern Norway

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

BLÅ

Discover Oslo's vibrant nightlife at BLÅ, a premier live music venue with a unique beer garden and electrifying atmosphere.

4.4

Ingensteds

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oslo at Ingensteds, a stylish night club in the heart of Grünerløkka with top-notch cocktails and electrifying music.

4.3

Storgata 26

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oslo at Storgata 26, a cultural hub offering music, cocktails, and unforgettable evenings.

3.8

The Villa Oslo Dancing

Discover the heartbeat of Oslo’s nightlife at The Villa, famous for its exhilarating deep house music and vibrant dance scene.

3.8

Best shops in Eastern Norway

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Storo Storsenter

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Storo Storsenter, Oslo's largest shopping mall, where variety meets convenience.

4.2

Paleet

Explore Paleet, Oslo's premier shopping mall, where luxury brands meet local charm in a vibrant setting.

4.0

Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby

Discover unbeatable fashion deals at Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby, the premier shopping destination near Oslo with a diverse range of brands and dining options.

4.2

Steen & Strøm Department Store

Experience the charm of Steen & Strøm, Oslo's historic department store, offering luxury shopping, gourmet delights, and a taste of local culture.

4.2

Explore Eastern Norway on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Eastern Norway, mapped for you.

Eastern Norway Essentials

Eastern Norway is well-connected and easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The main international gateway is Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL), located approximately 50 kilometers north of Oslo. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to reach your destination in Eastern Norway. There are also regional airports such as Sandefjord Airport Torp (TRF) and Moss Airport Rygge (RYG) which serve domestic and some international flights. By train, the Norwegian State Railways (NSB) offers extensive services connecting major cities and towns in Eastern Norway. Bus services, operated by companies like Nettbuss and Vy, are also available for regional travel.
Public transportation in Eastern Norway is efficient and reliable. Trains, operated by Vy and Flytoget, connect major cities, towns, and regions. Local buses and trams are available in cities such as Oslo, Drammen, and Lillehammer. For more remote areas, renting a car can be a convenient option. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Bicycling is also popular, with many cities offering bike rentals and dedicated bike lanes. Consider purchasing a travel pass, such as the Oslo Pass, which provides unlimited travel on public transport and free entry to various attractions.
The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small transactions. ATMs are plentiful, and cash can also be withdrawn from most banks. Mobile payment apps like Vipps are commonly used by locals. While larger establishments will accept card payments, it's advisable to carry some cash when traveling to smaller towns or rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Eastern Norway is generally very safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Oslo, being the capital city, has some areas where petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially around major tourist attractions like the Central Station and Karl Johans gate. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places, and keep your valuables secure. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, 113 for medical emergencies, and 110 for fire services. English is widely spoken, so communication should not be a barrier. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics in Eastern Norway are well-equipped and provide high-quality care. Pharmacies are available in most towns and cities for minor health issues. Keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your country's embassy or consulate.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather can be unpredictable. Practical and comfortable clothing is preferred. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect all places of worship. Remove your hat and avoid talking loudly in churches and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, and those with disabilities. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Using first names is common, even in professional settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and specialties. Don't refuse an offer of coffee or food, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Eastern Norway like a local, explore the natural landscapes such as the Oslo Fjord, the forests around Nordmarka, and the picturesque Lillehammer region. Attend local festivals and events, like the Norwegian Wood music festival or the Lillehammer Literature Festival. Visit local markets and eateries to enjoy regional delicacies such as rakfisk (fermented fish) and brunost (brown cheese). Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and traditions. For a unique experience, take a scenic train ride on the Rauma Line or the Flåm Railway.

When is the best time to visit Eastern Norway?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Eastern Norway

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Eastern Norway. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHei
  [hay]
- GoodbyeHa det
  [ha deh]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNei
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så god
  [vaer sho goo]
- Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld
  [oon-shild]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dahn har doo deh]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?
  [brah. oh doo?]
- Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snak-er doo eng-elsk?]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yai for-stor ikk-eh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, vær så snill
  [yai vil yar-nah seh meh-nyen, vaer sho snill]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yai spee-ser ikk-eh shutt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, vær så snill
  [yai vil yar-nah beh-tah-leh, vaer sho snill]
- Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå vekk!
  [gaw vek]
- Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring po-li-teh]
- Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en lay-geh]
- I'm lostJeg er tapt
  [yai air tapt]
- I'm illJeg er syk
  [yai air seek]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...
  [yai vil shoo-peh...]
- I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [yai bar-eh ser]
- How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vor mye koster deh?]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kan doo sen-keh pree-sen?]
- What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [vah air klok-kah]
- It's one o'clockDen er ett
  [den air ett]
- Half past (10)Halv tolv
  [halv tollv]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonEttermiddag
  [ett-er-mid-dahg]
- EveningKveld
  [kveld]
- YesterdayI går
  [ee gor]
- TodayI dag
  [ee dahg]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-gen]
- 11
  [en]
- 22
  [to]
- 33
  [tre]
- 44
  [fire]
- 55
  [fem]
- 66
  [seks]
- 77
  [sju]
- 88
  [åtte]
- 99
  [ni]
- 1010
  [ti]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/den...?
  [vor air en/den...?]
- What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [vah air ad-ress-en?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kan doo vee-seh mai (po kar-tet)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [nahr gor nes-teh (boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [en bi-lett (til ....)]

History of Eastern Norway

Eastern Norway, or Østlandet, played a significant role during the Viking Age (793-1066 AD). The region was home to many powerful chieftains and served as a launching point for numerous Viking expeditions. Archaeological sites such as the Borre Mounds in Vestfold provide insight into the burial practices and societal structures of the time.
Oslo, the capital city of Norway, was founded in 1040 by King Harald Hardrada. It quickly grew into a significant economic and political center. The city's medieval roots are still evident in landmarks like the Akershus Fortress, constructed in the late 13th century to protect the city from invasions.
In 1397, Norway entered the Kalmar Union with Denmark and Sweden. Eastern Norway was significantly impacted by this political union, which lasted until 1523. The period saw both economic growth and political turmoil, including numerous battles for control over the region.
The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century brought significant religious and cultural changes to Eastern Norway. The region's churches, such as the Oslo Cathedral, underwent transformations as Lutheranism replaced Catholicism, leaving a lasting impact on local traditions and art.
The 19th century Industrial Revolution brought rapid changes to Eastern Norway. The region saw the rise of industries such as timber, mining, and later, manufacturing. Cities like Drammen and Kongsberg grew as industrial hubs, transforming the economic landscape of Østlandet.
During World War II, Eastern Norway was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945. The occupation left a deep mark on the region, with resistance movements and significant battles, such as the heavy water sabotage in Rjukan, which played a crucial role in hindering Germany's nuclear ambitions.
The post-war era ushered in a period of reconstruction and modernization in Eastern Norway. The region saw significant developments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Oslo emerged as a prominent cultural and economic hub, symbolizing Norway's resurgence on the global stage.
Today, Eastern Norway is a vibrant mix of historical legacy and modern innovation. The region boasts a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals. Landmarks like the Norwegian Opera House and the Munch Museum in Oslo highlight the area's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing contemporary arts.