Living by the Sea: Conquer 8 Cities in the World’s Happiest Country

Andalsnes is located within the Romsdalfjord. (Photo provided by Shutterstock)

Norway, named the world’s happiest country in 2017, boasts tens of thousands of kilometers of coastline along its western half, dotted with cities nestled by the sea. Known as the “Land of Fjords,” it holds several titles of “world’s best.” Here’s a look at must-visit coastal cities in Norway.

1. Bergen: Norway’s second-largest city and the largest port on the country’s west coast, Bergen is considered the “Gateway to the Fjords.” Its neat and colorful streetscape is a major draw, and you can also take a cable car up to the mountaintop for a breathtaking panoramic view of the stunning coastline.

2. Honningsvag: Known as the “northernmost city in the world,” Honningsvag is located in the northernmost part of mainland Europe and is a remote port on the edge of the Arctic Circle, not far from North Cape, often referred to as the “end of the Earth.”

3. Tromso: As the largest city within the Arctic Circle, Tromso is home to the world’s northernmost university, bar, and cathedral. The ornately decorated west facade stained-glass windows of the Nidaros Cathedral are a must-see attraction. Human habitation in the area dates back to the late Ice Age, and to this day, the Sámi people are the most well-known reindeer-herding nomads.

Multiple bridges in Kristiansund connect to form the Atlantic Ocean Road, known as the “world’s most beautiful coastal highway.” (Photo provided by Shutterstock)

4. Kristiansund: Situated in Norway’s archipelago region, Kristiansund is linked by multiple bridges to form the Atlantic Ocean Road, hailed as the “world’s most beautiful coastal highway” and also one of Norway’s national tourist routes, offering stunning coastal views along the way.

5. Alta: Known as the “City of the Northern Lights,” Alta is home to the Alta Rock Art, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring prehistoric art that showcases the creations of hunters and fishermen from the transition between the Nordic Stone Age and Metal Age. The artworks depict animals such as reindeer, salmon, and whales, as well as fishing and hunting rituals.

6. Trondheim: Norway’s third-largest city, Trondheim, is an important hub for education, technology, and pharmaceutical development.

7. Andalsnes: Located within the Romsdalfjord, Andalsnes was one of the destinations that attracted British nobility and foreign tourists in the late 19th century, with its harbor views framed by surrounding mountains.

8. Olden: Home to the famous Briksdal Glacier, one of the largest branches of Norway’s largest glacier, Olden is surrounded by lush greenery. The spectacular and serene Lake Olden is almost otherworldly in its beauty.