NORWAY FOR
FAMILIES
Ranked one of the best countries to raise a family, Norway assumes you’ll travel with the kids. There’s something to thrill all ages – from Viking ships and archery lessons to interactive attractions and animal encounters.
t Family hiking in the mountains near Bergen, Hordaland
Family-Friendly Hikes
Don some hiking boots and head outside. National parks such as Rondane and Hardangervidda have gentle hikes on moor plateaux – ideal for little legs. Look out for reindeer and sheep, and forage for cloudberries. When you need a proper energy boost, stop at a mountain lodge for waffles with jam.
A Capital for Kids
City breaks can be challenging with kids in tow; not in Oslo. Climb the iceberg-shaped Opera House and the 200 sculptures at Vigelandsparken. Frogner Park has outdoor swimming pools and the largest playground in Norway while Det Internasjonale Barnekunstmuseet is the world’s first full-scale museum dedicated to children’s art.
Time Travel
History comes to life at attractions across Norway. Oslo’s Vikingskipshuset houses the world’s best-preserved Viking ships. Children can try their hand at archaeology, archery, axe throwing and farming at Midgard Historical Centre and Stiklestad Viking Centre. Oslo’s Norsk Folkemuseum and Lillehammer’s Maihaugen are both vast open-air museums with with food and craft demos and animals.
Animal Adventures
Whales, polar bears, reindeer, moose and more await at Europe’s most exciting wildlife viewing destination. Little ones can feed moose, part of the Elgtun’s Landeskogen Peace Center (www.landeskogen.no). In Karasjok, 60,000 reindeer graze in autumn and winter. Northern Norway, particularly Vesterålen, is the top spot for a sperm whale safari, with bonus flocks of colourful puffins.
Norway for Families
Money-saving ideas
Free travel for kids
Children aged 0–3 years can travel free on most public transport. Children aged 4–15 can get discounted tickets.
Affordable accommodation
Hotels in Norway have family room deals. DNT hytte (cabins) in national parks charge a fraction of hotel prices. Camping is nearly always free.
Get outside
Most coastal areas in Norway are free, as are national parks. Even Oslo has free outdoor parks, forests and beaches.
Cheap city eats
Mathallen and Vippa food halls in Oslo and Fisketorget in Bergen offer tempting treats at a fraction of city restaurant prices.
Reduced entry fees
Most attractions offer free admission for children up to 5 years of age and half-price admission for kids up to 16. Family tickets are available at many of Norway’s sights. Check in advance.