Innlandet, Norway Travel Guide

Discover Innlandet: A harmonious blend of breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage in the heart of Norway.

Innlandet, situated in the heart of Norway, offers tourists an enchanting blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This region is known for its stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, serene lakes, and lush forests. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a history buff, Innlandet has something to captivate your interest. One of the main attractions in Innlandet is the Jotunheimen National Park, home to Norway's highest peaks. Hikers and climbers will find numerous trails and ascents suited for all skill levels. For a more relaxed experience, you can visit Lake Mjøsa, Norway's largest lake, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic cruises. Cultural experiences abound in Innlandet as well. The historic town of Lillehammer, famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, features the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum and the Lillehammer Art Museum. Additionally, the region is dotted with charming villages where you can explore traditional Norwegian architecture and enjoy local cuisine.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Pack layers and waterproof clothing; weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Visit in summer for hiking and lake activities, or in winter for skiing and snowboarding.
Try local dishes such as 'rakfisk' (fermented fish) and 'rømmegrøt' (sour cream porridge) for an authentic culinary experience.
Consider renting a car to explore the region's remote areas and hidden gems at your own pace.
Check local event calendars for traditional festivals and cultural events happening during your visit.

Top City Travel Guides in Innlandet

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

Oslo

Trondheim

Ålesund

Molde

Fredrikstad

Destinations in Innlandet

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

Jotunheimen National Park

Rauland

Hardangervidda National Park

Rondane National Park

Geirangerfjord

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Innlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Hunderfossen Adventure Park

Explore the magic of Hunderfossen Adventure Park, a must-visit amusement park in Norway, offering thrilling rides and enchanting fairy-tale experiences.

4.4

Maihaugen

Explore Maihaugen in Lillehammer, Norway's premier open-air museum showcasing rich cultural heritage through historic buildings and art.

4.6

Lysgårdsbakkene Hoppanlegg

Experience the thrill of ski jumping at Lysgardsbakkene Hoppanlegg in Lillehammer, where sport meets stunning alpine beauty.

4.5

Lilleputthammer

Explore Lilleputthammer, Norway’s enchanting amusement park, offering thrilling rides and playful adventures for families and children of all ages.

4.3

Best landmarks in Innlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Oslo Opera House

Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the Oslo Opera House, a must-visit landmark with stunning views of the fjord.

4.7

North Cape

Explore the North Cape, Norway's northernmost point, where breathtaking cliffs meet the Arctic Sea – a journey into nature's untouched beauty.

4.7

Akershus Fortress

Explore the historical Akershus Fortress in Oslo, a stunning site blending medieval architecture and beautiful park landscapes, perfect for every tourist.

4.5

The Royal Palace

Explore the Royal Palace of Oslo, a neoclassical masterpiece surrounded by beautiful gardens and steeped in rich Norwegian history.

4.5

Best restaurants in Innlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Heim Lillehammer

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Heim Lillehammer, where local flavors meet modern dining in an inviting gastropub atmosphere.

4.3

McDonald's Elverum

Experience fast food comfort at McDonald's Elverum – perfect for families and travelers seeking delicious meals on-the-go.

3.5

Det Lille Pannekakehuset

Explore the delicious world of pancakes at Det Lille Pannekakehuset in Lillehammer - where sweet meets savory in a cozy family-friendly setting.

4.5

Diner 13

Experience authentic American comfort food at Diner 13 in Tretten - where every meal feels like home.

4.3

Best bars in Innlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Heim Lillehammer

Experience the heart of Norwegian cuisine at Heim Lillehammer, where local flavors meet a vibrant gastropub atmosphere.

4.3

Egon

Experience the best of Norwegian cuisine at Egon, Lillehammer's vibrant restaurant offering a diverse menu in a cozy atmosphere.

4.1

Nikkers

Discover the flavors of Norway at Nikkers, a cozy restaurant in Lillehammer offering a delightful menu with local and international dishes.

4.1

Lillehammer Restaurant & Bar ( Lillehammer pizzeria)

Discover the culinary delights of Lillehammer at Lillehammer Restaurant & Bar, where Turkish, Californian, and Italian flavors meet in a cozy setting.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Innlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

BLÅ

Discover Oslo's nightlife at BLÅ, where live music, a beer garden, and disco vibes create an unforgettable experience in Grünerløkka.

4.4

Stavkroa

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Stavkroa in Hemsedal, Norway, where music, dancing, and sports come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.1

Haakons pub AS

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Haakons Pub in Lillehammer, the perfect spot for tourists seeking local culture and great drinks.

4.4

Ingensteds

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oslo at Ingensteds, a beloved night club in the heart of Grünerløkka, perfect for dancing and socializing.

4.3

Best shops in Innlandet

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Paleet

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Paleet, Oslo's vibrant shopping mall in the heart of the city, where style meets culture.

4.0

Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby

Discover unbeatable deals at Oslo Fashion Outlet Vestby, the ultimate shopping destination just outside Oslo, featuring top brands and incredible discounts.

4.2

Strandtorget

Explore the vibrant Strandtorget shopping mall in Lillehammer, Norway, featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and engaging entertainment experiences.

4.1

CC Gjøvik

CC Gjøvik: The ultimate shopping destination in Gjøvik, Norway, featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Explore Innlandet on the Map

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

Innlandet Essentials

Innlandet is located in southeastern Norway and is accessible through various modes of transport. The nearest international airport is Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), which is approximately 140 kilometers from the region's central areas. From Oslo, you can take a train, bus, or rent a car to reach Innlandet. The train journey from Oslo to major towns like Lillehammer, Hamar, and Gjøvik takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses are also available and offer a comfortable ride. For those driving, the E6 highway connects Oslo to Innlandet, providing a scenic route through the Norwegian countryside.
Innlandet offers a variety of transportation options. The public transport network includes buses and trains, which are efficient and well-connected. Regional trains operated by Vy connect major towns within Innlandet and to other parts of Norway. Local buses cover shorter distances and rural areas. Taxis are also available but can be expensive. Renting a car is a popular option for those who wish to explore the region at their own pace, especially the picturesque countryside and remote areas. Biking is another excellent way to get around, with numerous bike-friendly paths and trails.
The official currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and even in public transport. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities, but it's advisable to carry some cash for use in smaller establishments or rural areas where card payments might not be accepted. Mobile payment solutions like VIPPS are also commonly used among locals.
Innlandet is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crimes are rare. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings, especially in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be mindful of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Innlandet.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, 113 for medical emergencies, and 110 for fire services. These are the emergency numbers throughout Norway. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Hospitals and medical facilities in Innlandet are well-equipped, and pharmacies are available in towns for over-the-counter medications. Most Norwegians speak English, so communication in emergencies should not be an issue.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Practical and comfortable clothing is preferred. Avoid wearing overly flashy or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and be quiet and respectful. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful; Norwegian public transport operates on strict schedules. Don't eat or drink on public transport unless it's allowed. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Norwegians appreciate direct and straightforward communication. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and participate in communal eating traditions. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Innlandet like a local, consider visiting during local festivals and events, such as the Lillehammer Jazz Festival or the Peer Gynt Festival. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and open to sharing their culture. Explore local markets and try regional specialties like rakfisk (fermented fish) and traditional Norwegian waffles. Take advantage of the outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing, which are integral to life in Innlandet. Visiting local farms and staying in traditional cabins can provide an authentic experience of rural Norwegian life.
Innlandet experiences a varied climate, with cold winters and mild summers. Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, especially in areas like Lillehammer, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and beautiful natural scenery, but weather can be unpredictable. Plan your visit according to the activities you wish to pursue.

When is the best time to visit Innlandet?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Innlandet

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 Innlandet. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHei
  [Hay]
- GoodbyeHa det
  [Hah deh]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNei
  [Nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVær så snill/Ingen årsak
  [Vair shoh snill/In-yen or-sahk]
- 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?
  [Bra. Oh doo?]
- Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?
  [Snak-er doo eng-elsk?]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [Yay for-stor ik-keh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, vær så snill
  [Yay vil yar-ne seh meh-nyen, vair shoh snill]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt
  [Yay spee-ser ik-keh shutt]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [Skohl!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, vær så snill
  [Yay vil yar-ne be-ta-leh, vair shoh snill]
- Help!Hjelp!
  [Yelp!]
- Go away!Gå vekk!
  [Gaw vek!]
- Call the Police!Ring politiet!
  [Ring po-li-teet!]
- Call a doctor!Ring en lege!
  [Ring en lay-geh!]
- I'm lostJeg er tapt
  [Yay air tahpt]
- I'm illJeg er syk
  [Yay air seek]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gjerne kjøpe...
  [Yay vil yar-ne shuh-peh...]
- I'm just lookingJeg bare ser
  [Yay bar-eh sehr]
- How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?
  [Vor mee-eh kohs-ter deh?]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [Deh air for deert]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?
  [Kahn doo sen-keh pree-sen?]
- What time is it?Hva er klokka?
  [Hva air klok-ka?]
- It's one o'clockDet er ett
  [Deh air et]
- Half past (10)Halv (ti)
  [Halv (tee)]
- MorningMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- AfternoonEttermiddag
  [Et-ter-mid-dahg]
- EveningKveld
  [Kvel-d]
- YesterdayI går
  [Ee gor]
- TodayI dag
  [Ee dahg]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [Ee mor-gen]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/den...?
  [Vor air en/den...?]
- What's the address?Hva er adressen?
  [Hva air ad-ress-en?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?
  [Kahn doo vee-seh may (poh kar-tet)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Når går den neste (bussen)?
  [Nor gor den nes-teh (bus-sen)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ....)
  [En bil-let (til ....)]

History of Innlandet

The medieval era marked a significant period in Innlandet's history, particularly with the establishment of Hamar in 1152. Hamar became an important religious and administrative center, housing the Hamar Cathedral, which was a pivotal ecclesiastical site in Norway. The town thrived until the Reformation in the 16th century, when the cathedral was destroyed, leading to a period of decline.
One of the most notable historical events in Innlandet is the Battle of Kringen, which took place on August 26, 1612. Scottish mercenaries, known as the Scottish Brigade, were ambushed by Norwegian peasant militia in the Gudbrandsdalen valley. The battle was a decisive victory for the Norwegians and is remembered for its demonstration of local resistance against foreign forces.
Lillehammer, a town in Innlandet, gained international fame when it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1994. The event was lauded for its organization and the beautiful natural settings of the region. The games left a lasting legacy, with Lillehammer continuing to be a hub for winter sports and tourism.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Innlandet, particularly with the development of the Røros Copper Works. Established in 1644, the mining town of Røros became a center for copper production. The town's unique wooden architecture and historical significance led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980.
During World War II, Innlandet played a strategic role in the Norwegian resistance movement. The region's rugged terrain provided ideal conditions for guerrilla warfare and hiding places for resistance fighters. Notable incidents include the heavy water sabotage operations carried out by Norwegian commandos, which were crucial in hindering Nazi Germany's nuclear ambitions.
The Gudbrandsdalen Valley is a cultural heartland of Innlandet, known for its rich traditions in folk art, music, and literature. The valley has inspired numerous artists and writers, including the famous Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. Traditional wooden stave churches and local festivals celebrate the region's heritage, making it a vibrant center of Norwegian culture.