The westernmost and northernmost of the three Scandinavian countries, Norway possesses wondrous natural beauty. It’s world-famous for its fjords, and a Norway travel itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a breathtaking fjord tour. One popular way to see these natural wonders is via the Flam railway, one of the world’s steepest railway lines that travels in and out of mountains and ends up at the Sognefjord, the world’s longest fjord.

Those who travel to Norway find numerous outdoor activities await them, including skiing, mountain hiking, whale-watching and biking. Indeed, since the country is so sparsely populated, it boasts numerous national parks ideal for outdoor pursuits. A summer visit offers the opportunity to experience endless light-filled days, while those who travel to Norway during the winter can view the dancing Northern Lights. Oslo is a vibrant international city with many cultural offerings. Just outside the city is one of the country’s top attractions—the famous Holmenkollen ski jump. A Norway vacation often includes a visit to the charming city of Bergen, an old Hanseatic trading port.

U.S. travelers require a valid passport to visit Norway. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days (that period begins when you enter any of the Schengen countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden). Oslo is the main hub for international flights, and there is nonstop service from New York to Oslo. There is also ferry service between Oslo and ports in Denmark, Sweden and Germany, and train service between Oslo and the European continent. It’s possible to travel within Norway by rental car, train or air (a good option in the north because of the difficult terrain). Due to the Gulf Stream, the weather in Norway is warmer than might be expected for such a northerly country. In Oslo, winter (November-March) temperatures range from about 5°F to 55°F, while during the summer (June-August), temperatures range from about 40°F to 85°F. Norwegian is the official language, although many people speak English. Currency is the Norwegian kroner. For more information on a vacation in Norway, log on to www.visitnorway.com.