Stretching along the country’s Atlantic coast, Western Norway is a spectacular region of dramatic fjords and historically-rich settlements. It encompasses the scenic counties of Rogaland, Vestland and Møre og Romsdal, as well as the UNESCO-listed harbour of Bergen and the oil boom city of Stavanger.
Things to do in Western Norway
Charming waterfront settlements, cutting-edge museums and breathtaking natural wonders – Western Norway offers all of this and more.
Wander Bergen’s UNESCO-listed wharf. Lined with colourful wooden houses dating back to the early 18th century, the old wharf of Bryggen was once a major trading hub of the Hanseatic League. Discover the small boutiques, galleries and artist studios in its hidden laneways or see the archaeological excavations on show at Bryggens Museum.
Cruise the Geirangerfjord. Framed by soaring mountains where traditional farms cling to the hillsides, Geirangerfjord boasts some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Norway. A cruise along its turquoise waters offers stunning views of the Seven Sisters Waterfall and the aptly-named Bridal Veil Falls.
Visit Stavanger’s Norwegian Petroleum Museum. Designed like a small oil platform, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum is an architecturally impressive landmark in the Port of Stavanger. It illustrates the technological development of the country’s offshore petroleum activity in the North Sea, with submersibles and an escape chute among its highlights.
Soak up the views from Pulpit Rock. Rising more than 600 metres above Lysefjorden, Pulpit Rock is a striking, flat-topped cliff that’s become one of Norway’s most popular natural tourist attractions. Follow the 3.8-kilometre-long trail that leads to this Ice Age geological wonder, which boasts magnificent views across the lake-dotted hills of the Ryfylke region.
Getting around Western Norway
Bergen Airport and Stavanger Airport are the main aviation gateways to Western Norway, with both offering flights to destinations across Europe. A network of trains and buses connect to towns and villages across the region while Hurtigruten ferries are a convenient way of exploring the fjords. Most of the settlements are small enough to explore on foot.