Hedmark, Norway Travel Guide

Discover Hedmark, Norway's hidden gem, where natural beauty meets rich history and outdoor adventures await around every corner.

Hedmark, located in the eastern part of Norway, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This charming region offers an array of outdoor activities, from hiking in the lush forests and skiing on pristine slopes, to fishing in its numerous lakes and rivers. Hedmark is also home to some of Norway's most picturesque landscapes, including the vast wilderness of Femundsmarka National Park and the serene shores of Lake Mjøsa, Norway's largest lake. History enthusiasts will find much to explore in Hedmark. The region boasts a rich history, with ancient ruins, medieval churches, and charming farmsteads dotting the countryside. The Hedmark Museum, located in Hamar, offers fascinating insights into the area's past, with exhibits ranging from Viking treasures to traditional Norwegian crafts. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Hedmark's quaint towns and villages offer a warm welcome. Stroll through the historic streets of Hamar, enjoy local cuisine in cozy restaurants, or visit the bustling markets to sample regional produce. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking to unwind in nature, Hedmark provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit in the summer for the best hiking and fishing opportunities, or in the winter for excellent skiing conditions.
Check out the local markets for fresh produce and traditional Norwegian foods.
Take a guided tour of the Hedmark Museum to fully appreciate the rich history of the region.
Bring layers of clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains.
Rent a car to explore the region at your own pace, as public transport can be limited in some areas.

Top City Travel Guides in Hedmark

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

Oslo

Destinations in Hedmark

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

Jotunheimen National Park

Rondane National Park

Hafjell

Besseggen Ridge

Kvitfjell Ski Resort

Explore Hedmark: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Hedmark

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Hunderfossen Adventure Park

Discover the magic of Norwegian folklore at Hunderfossen Adventure Park, where adventure meets family fun in a picturesque setting.

4.4

Lysgårdsbakkene Hoppanlegg

Discover the excitement of ski jumping at Lysgardsbakkene Hoppanlegg, a premier attraction in Lillehammer, Norway, known for breathtaking views and thrilling sports.

4.5

Norwegian Road Museum

Discover Norway's automotive evolution at the Norwegian Road Museum, showcasing classic vehicles and rich transportation history.

4.7

Domkirkeodden

Explore the stunning Domkirkeodden in Hamar, Norway - a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty awaits.

4.5

Best landmarks in Hedmark

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Domkirkeodden

Discover Hamar's rich historical heritage at Domkirkeodden, a stunning museum and tourist attraction amidst beautiful landscapes.

4.5

Vikingskipet

Explore Vikingskipet, an architectural marvel in Hamar, Norway, and experience the thrill of sports in a culturally rich environment.

4.4

Kongsvinger Fortress

Explore Kongsvinger Fortress, a historic military stronghold with stunning views and rich cultural heritage in Norway.

4.5

Koigen

Experience the natural beauty of Koigen Park in Hamar, a serene escape perfect for relaxation, picnics, and stunning views of Lake Mjøsa.

4.5

Best restaurants in Hedmark

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Pizzanini Hamar

Discover the flavors of Pizzanini Hamar, where authentic American-Italian pizzas meet warm Norwegian hospitality.

4.2

Knettsetra

Discover culinary excellence at Knettsetra in Trysil – where local flavors meet breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.3

Hygge Gjøvik

Experience cozy dining at Hygge Gjøvik - where comfort food meets a warm atmosphere in the heart of Norway.

4.0

Restaurant Skihytta Trysil

Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine in a cozy setting at Restaurant Skihytta in Trysil - where every meal tells a story.

4.0

Best bars in Hedmark

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Heim Hamar

Explore Heim Hamar, a vibrant gastropub serving delicious local cuisine and drinks in a lively atmosphere in the heart of Hamar.

4.2

The Irishman

Experience the charm of The Irishman, a vibrant Irish pub in Hamar offering delicious food, drinks, and live music for an unforgettable night out.

4.3

Haakons pub AS

Discover the charm of Haakons Pub in Lillehammer, a welcoming spot for drinks, bites, and memorable moments.

4.4

Gullkorn Ølbar

Discover Gullkorn Ølbar in Hamar, where craft beers and local culture intertwine for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Hedmark

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

BLÅ

Discover Oslo's dynamic nightlife at BLÅ, where live music, a vibrant beer garden, and an energetic disco club await every visitor.

4.4

Ingensteds

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Oslo at Ingensteds, a vibrant night club in Grünerløkka offering cocktails, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.

4.3

Nellie Pub

Explore the lively ambiance and local flavors at Nellie Pub, the quintessential bar experience in Hamar, Norway.

4.1

Festiviteten Bar & Scene

Discover the electric atmosphere of Festiviteten Bar & Scene in Hamar, where live music meets a vibrant nightlife experience.

4.2

Best shops in Hedmark

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Paleet

Discover Paleet, Oslo's chic shopping mall, featuring luxury brands, delightful eateries, and a vibrant cultural scene in the heart of the city.

4.0

Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby

Discover unbeatable deals on top fashion brands at Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby, the ultimate shopping destination in Norway.

4.2

CC Hamar

Discover CC Hamar, a bustling shopping mall in Norway with diverse shops, delicious dining, and engaging entertainment options for the ultimate shopping experience.

4.3

Steen & Strøm Department Store

Discover the elegance of Steen & Strøm Department Store in Oslo, a premier shopping destination with luxury fashion, gourmet foods, and local charm.

4.2

Explore Hedmark on the Map

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

Hedmark Essentials

Hedmark, located in eastern Norway, can be accessed by various means of transportation. The nearest major airport is Oslo Gardermoen Airport, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by car or train. From the airport, you can take a train operated by Vy (Norwegian State Railways) directly to major towns in Hedmark, such as Hamar. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for a more flexible travel experience.
Public transportation within Hedmark is efficient, with regular train and bus services connecting major towns and rural areas. Vy trains connect Hamar, Elverum, and other key locations. Innlandstrafikk operates a comprehensive bus network. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the scenic countryside and remote areas. Biking is also a popular option during the summer months.
The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities. Mobile payment solutions like Vipps are also commonly used. It’s advisable to carry some cash for use in smaller establishments or rural areas where card payments might not be accepted.
Hedmark is generally a very safe region for tourists. Crime rates are low, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving valuables in cars or unattended in public places. Rural areas and hiking trails are safe, but it’s wise to inform someone of your plans if venturing into remote areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, 110 for fire services, and 113 for medical emergencies. Hospitals and medical clinics are available in major towns like Hamar and Elverum. Pharmacies (Apotek) are also widely available for non-emergency medical needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and practical clothing is preferred. Religion: Do respect local churches and religious sites by dressing modestly and behaving respectfully. Public Transport: Do be punctual, as public transport runs on a strict schedule. Don't talk loudly on your phone in public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like rakfisk and moose meat. Don't refuse offers of coffee or food from locals, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Hedmark like a local, visit local markets such as the Hamar Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Participate in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing, which are integral to the local lifestyle. Attend local events and festivals, such as the annual Medieval Festival at Hamar. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and happy to share insights about the region's history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Hedmark?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hedmark

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 Hedmark. 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 snill/Ingen årsak
  [vaer so snil/ingen or-sak]
- Thank youTakk
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld meg
  [oon-shild my]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-dahn har du deh]
- Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?
  [bra. oh du?]
- Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [snak-er du eng-elsk?]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yai for-stor ik-keh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, vær så snill
  [yai vil yair-ne se men-yen, vaer so snil]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [yai spee-ser ik-keh kyett]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skawl]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, vær så snill
  [yai vil yair-ne be-ta-leh, vaer so snil]
- Help!Hjelp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå vekk!
  [go vek]
- Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [ring poh-li-teh]
- Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [ring en leh-geh]
- I'm lostJeg har gått meg bort
  [yai har got meg bort]
- I'm illJeg er syk
  [yai air seek]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gjerne kjøpe...
  [yai vil yair-ne kyuh-peh...]
- I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [yai bar-eh sehr]
- How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [vor mye kost-er deh?]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [kan du sen-keh pree-sen?]
- What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [vah air klohk-ka]
- It's one o'clockDen er ett
  [den air ett]
- Half past (10)Halv elleve
  [halv el-leh-veh]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-gen]
- AfternoonEttermiddag
  [et-ter-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-reh-sen?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [kan du vee-seh my (po kar-tet)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?
  [nor gor nes-teh (boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [en bee-lett (til ....)]

History of Hedmark

The history of Hedmark dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlement as far back as the Stone Age. Archaeologists have uncovered numerous artifacts, including stone tools and burial mounds, indicating that the region was inhabited by early hunter-gatherer societies. The discovery of the famous 'Hjellestad Stone,' a runestone from the Viking Age, further highlights the area's ancient past.
During the Viking Age, Hedmark was a significant center of activity. The region was home to powerful chieftains and was part of the kingdom of Norway. The town of Hamar, founded in the early 12th century, became an important religious and political hub, with the establishment of Hamar Cathedral and the bishopric. The medieval period also saw Hedmark become a battleground for various conflicts, including the civil wars of the 12th and 13th centuries.
The majestic Hamar Cathedral, built in the 12th century, once stood as a symbol of religious power in Hedmark. Despite being destroyed during the Reformation in the 16th century, the ruins remain a significant historical site. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the cathedral and the adjacent bishop's palace, gaining insight into the ecclesiastical history of the region.
The Black Death swept through Norway in the mid-14th century, leaving a profound impact on Hedmark. The plague decimated the population, leading to a period of economic and social upheaval. Many farms and settlements were abandoned, and the once-thriving town of Hamar experienced a significant decline. This dark chapter in Hedmark's history is remembered through various historical records and archaeological findings.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Hedmark's vast forests became a valuable resource for the timber trade. Timber from Hedmark was transported down the Glomma River to the ports, where it was exported to other parts of Europe. This trade brought economic prosperity to the region and led to the growth of towns and infrastructure. The legacy of the timber trade is still evident today in the region's architecture and local traditions.
During World War II, Hedmark played a crucial role in the Norwegian resistance movement. The region's dense forests and remote terrain provided ideal conditions for guerilla warfare against the occupying Nazi forces. Local resistance groups, such as Milorg, conducted sabotage operations and assisted in the escape of refugees to Sweden. Monuments and museums in Hedmark commemorate the bravery and sacrifices of those involved in the resistance.
In the post-war period, Hedmark has transformed into a modern region while preserving its rich historical heritage. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with the region being known for its fertile soil and high-quality produce. Additionally, Hedmark has become a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing, attracting tourists from around the world. The blend of historical sites and natural beauty makes Hedmark a unique and captivating destination.