Exploring Norway on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Day 1: Vigeland Sculpture Park
    20 minutes (4.5 km) from Central Oslo

    Visit the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland, housing 212 bronze, cast iron, and granite sculptures. Take a leisurely stroll through the park which is always open and free to enter.

  2. Day 2: Akershus Fortress
    10 minutes (2.5 km) from Vigeland Sculpture Park

    Explore Norway’s history at Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle and royal residence built in 1299. Visit the museum, go on a guided tour or wander the castle grounds and take in the scenic views of Oslo Fjord. Entry to the fortress is free with a small fee for the museum.

  3. Day 3: Bergen Fish Market
    7 minutes (1.5 km) from Bergen city center

    Visit the lively Bergen fish market, one of Norway’s most famous attractions. Witness the catch of the day and indulge in freshly prepared seafood by local chefs. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bergen’s city center where the fish market is located.

  4. Day 4: Fløibanen Railway and Mount Fløyen
    10 minutes (2 km) from Bergen Fish Market

    Take the Fløibanen railway to the top of Mount Fløyen, offering a picturesque view of Bergen city. Enjoy the panoramic view of the cityscape and surrounding mountains, hike around the area, or visit the souvenir shops and amusement park at the summit. Tickets start at NOK 80 for a one-way trip.

  5. Day 5: The Arctic Cathedral
    12 minutes (3.5 km) from Tromsø city center

    Visit the iconic Arctic Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece located on the Tromsø Island. Admire its stunning triangular shape made of glass and concrete, and its impressive stained-glass window. Attend a midnight concert to witness the beauty of the cathedral’s acoustics. Entry to the cathedral is free, and concert tickets prices range from NOK 190 to 290.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Vigeland Sculpture Park (1-2 hours, free)
  • Akershus Fortress (2-3 hours, NOK 100-160)
  • Bergen Fish Market (1-2 hours, free)
  • Fløibanen Railway and Mount Fløyen (3-4 hours, NOK 80-160)
  • The Arctic Cathedral (2-3 hours, free-entry, concert tickets NOK 190-290)

  • Total Estimated Costs: NOK 370-610

Useful tips

For a more budget-friendly trip, try exploring the cities on foot, carry a refillable water bottle, and pack your own meals. If you have more time, visit the Oslo City hall to witness its stunning murals and architecture or go for island hopping around Bergen. If you have less time, you can skip the midnight concert and visit the cathedral during the day.

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