Luxury Holidays in Norway

This guide provides comprehensive ideas for your luxury holidays in Norway, outlining unforgettable luxury trips to Norway that cover everything from fjord cruises and iconic train journeys to Arctic wildlife safaris. To move beyond inspiration, contact our travel specialists today and start planning your ultimate luxury travel to Norway.

What makes luxury travel

A common misconception about luxury travel in Norway is that it’s exclusively about lavish accommodation, private yacht cruises, and Michelin-starred restaurants. However, we at Nordiva Tours believe that true luxury lies in embracing your passions, enjoying experiences tailored to your liking, and following an itinerary crafted specifically for you, with your interests and preferences in mind.

To get you started, we’ve put together a few ideas for luxury experiences in Norway. But if you desire luxury holidays in Norway that are perfectly tailored to your unique tastes, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Best ideas for luxury holidays in Norway

Norway — with its wealth of unique natural attractions and remarkable destinations — promises a feast for your senses and unforgettable memories. Here, we discuss the best ways to experience luxury trips to Norway.

Fjord experiences

Trollfjord, Lofoten Islands.

This Scandinavian country is synonymous with fjords, and no luxury Norway holidays are complete without a visit to these magnificent natural wonders. Your options range from a cruise or an exhilarating RIB boat safari to a stay in a comfortable hotel by the fjord. The sheer number of remarkable fjords can make it difficult to choose just one or two for your trip. To help, we’ve prepared a guide to the 13 best fjords to visit in Norway.

Of course, several fjords stand out. The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord is Norway’s true natural gem and an absolute must-visit, famed for its dramatic landscapes with towering mountains and thundering waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest, is another remarkable destination that boasts multiple branches, the most stunning of which is Nærøyfjord — best experienced as a part of the “Norway in a Nutshell” journey.

Then there is Hardangerfjord, which has also earned the nickname “the Queen of the Fjords.” The entire Hardanger region is famous for its blooming fruit orchards in spring, thundering waterfalls, and scenic hikes, where travellers looking for a comfortable stay will absolutely love the fjordside Ullensvang Hotel in Lofthus. While adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations can journey to the more understated Hjørundfjord and Nordfjord, both most easily accessible from Ålesund.

And that’s just a glimpse of what Norway has to offer. This Scandinavian country is home to a myriad of captivating fjords, and experiencing them, in one way or another, is undoubtedly a must for truly luxury holidays in Norway.

Train trips

Rauma Railway, which even featured in one of the Harry Potter films, is one of the most scenic train journeys in Europe.

While not the obvious choice for luxury holidays in Norway, train trips offer a truly spectacular way to experience the beauty of the country’s nature. Several of Norway’s exceptionally scenic railway routes — running past high mountain plateaus, deep valleys, and winding fjords — are deservedly considered among the most beautiful in the world.

Flåmsbana, one of the steepest railway lines in the world, is a short, 20-kilometre ride from the mountain station of Myrdal to the town of Flåm. Arguably the most famous train trip in the country, this railway journey is a key part of the iconic “Norway in a Nutshell” tour, which takes travellers through some of Norway’s most spectacular fjord and mountain landscapes, making it a popular choice year-round.

The Rauma Line that connects Dombås with Norway’s mountaineering capital of Åndalsnes is another remarkable journey, which even featured in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and is best experienced on a trip from Oslo to Åndalsnes. Visitors can also take a train trip from Oslo to Trondheim and stop overnight in the UNESCO-listed town of Røros, conveniently located halfway — a town we have listed among the most beautiful destinations in Norway.

The Bergen Line offers a scenic 7-hour trip from Bergen to Oslo, with views of glaciers, pristine lakes, and small mountain villages from the train window. Meanwhile, the Nordland Line, Norway’s longest, takes travellers on an epic journey from Trondheim to Bodø and crosses the Arctic Circle. With so many diverse and spectacular train trips, consider taking one or two during your visit to Norway.

Arctic adventures

Dog sledding under the mesmerising Northern Lights in the sky is an unforgettable experience.

In winter, Norway becomes a magnet for travellers seeking to embrace traditional winter activities in the Arctic, with several destinations standing out. Tromsø, the country’s Arctic capital, is typically the most popular choice, offering visitors a wealth of winter activities — from reindeer and husky sledding to snowmobiling and whale watching (read about the best Arctic activities in Tromsø in our blog). The absolute highlight is the Northern Lights safaris, which typically run from early September to late March and provide guests with the opportunity to witness the mesmerising Aurora Borealis.

The entire northern part of the country abounds with opportunities for Norway luxury tours in winter. Travellers can journey to the small town of Alta and stay in the unique Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, one of the extraordinary luxury resorts in Norway. Alternatively, a trip further east to Kirkenes offers an authentic king crab safari, perfectly complemented by an unforgettable stay at the Snowhotel Kirkenes, open year-round.

However, the variety of activities is not limited to these options alone. With excellent opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fat-tire biking, and Aurora cruises, this region is a perfect choice for luxury Norway holidays in winter.

Cultural immersion

The unique culture of the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of Northern Europe, is best experienced on a visit to one of their traditional camps.

For a more authentic experience, travellers can also incorporate some cultural aspects to their luxury trips to Norway. Cultural immersion in this country goes beyond visiting popular landmarks and includes engaging in the local way of life, traditions, and the country’s unique relationship with nature.

Visitors in the north can embrace the extraordinary culture of the Sámi people, the indigenous inhabitants of Northern Europe, on a visit to a traditional camp or at a dedicated cultural centre. Heading south, travellers can witness the remarkable medieval wooden churches scattered around the country, including the UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church that perfectly blends Christian and ancient Viking art.

However, a truly pleasant way to embrace the Norwegian culture is adopting their love for cabin stays, known as hyttekos — this promises a perfect escape, allowing for a disconnect from modern life and a deep connection with the natural world. The Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) operates a vast network of diverse cabins across the country, ranging from fully staffed mountain lodges to unserviced huts. Renting one of these cosy accommodations will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience for your luxury holidays in Norway.

Idyllic stays

Hotel Ullensvang on the Hardangerfjord, which is also famous as the “Queen of Fjords.”

Norway is a true paradise for luxurious stays — be it in classic historic hotels on the waterfront, modern accommodations with expansive windows amidst the Norwegian wilderness, or unique Arctic resorts. The sheer variety of luxury lodges in Norway is simply astounding.

Staying in a classic, historic hotel on the shore of the fjord is one of the most charming ways to spend your luxury holiday in Norway, and several properties stand out. The Hotel Union in Geiranger is a first-class, family-owned accommodation on the mountainside overlooking the spectacular Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hotel Union Øye, nestled amidst the stunning Sunnmøre Alps on the shore of Norangsfjord, is a romantic luxury property dating back to 1891 that has hosted royalty and dignitaries. Other remarkable luxury hotels in Norway fjords include Hotel Ullensvang in Lofthus (Hardangerfjord) and Walaker Hotell in Solvorn (Sognefjord).

Recently, however, many modern properties have sprung up in remote areas around the country, allowing visitors to admire breathtaking landscapes through expansive windows. Juvet Landscape Hotel in Valldal is famous for its wooden “landscape rooms,” where one or two walls are made entirely of glass. Manshausen Sea Cabins, built on a private island near Lofoten, also offer fantastic views of the mountains and the sea through their luxury panoramic windows. The Bolder offers exclusive, architect-designed cabins perched on a cliff edge above the Lysefjord. And the Birdbox cabins, scattered around Norway, represent a collection of minimalist, cube-shaped micro-properties with large windows.

Furthermore, Norway’s North boasts several remarkable and memorable luxury resorts to stay in during the winter season. Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge, open year-round, offers 24 premium rooms and suites with private terraces. Its most unique feature, however, is the seasonal Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, rebuilt annually from ice and snow and featuring intricate ice sculptures. Snowhotel Kirkenes is another unique ice hotel, which hosts visitors in “Snow Suites” and wooden Gamme cabins with large panoramic windows. AERA, recently opened near Tromsø, is another upscale resort that provides a small number of minimalist, modern, glass-fronted lodges.

For a truly unique and secluded experience, visitors can journey to Fleinvær (near Bodø) and stay at the Arctic Hideaway, a remote, artistic cluster of small, wooden houses on a tiny, car-free island — an artistic haven for peace and reflection. Overall, staying in one of these truly iconic properties is one of the best ways to experience luxury travel in Norway.

Hiking adventures

Adventurer gazing at the famous Preikestolen cliff above the stunning Lysefjord.

Spice up your luxury Norway holidays with some spectacular hiking adventures, which can range from short nature strolls to challenging multi-day expeditions. This Scandinavian country — with its abundance of dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, and deep fjords — offers plenty of breathtaking locations for hiking.

Hardanger, an extremely picturesque region in Western Norway, is an absolute paradise for hikers, where travellers can set out on the renowned Trolltunga hike. Hardanger’s appeal for hikers, however, extends well beyond that famous hanging rock — its magnificent national parks of Hardangervidda and Folgefonna conceal many scenic trails, including Dronningstien, Best in the West, and the easy hike to Bondhusdalen Valley (learn more about these treks in our article about the best things to do in Odda).

Stavanger, a cosy town on the southwestern coast, also serves as a gateway to several of Norway’s iconic hikes. Preikestolen, the renowned cliff overhanging 604 metres above Lysefjord, is easily accessible to hikers of any fitness level, while Kjeragbolten, in contrast, draws true daredevils and adventurers seeking a daunting challenge.

The Lofoten Islands in the country’s north also provide ample opportunities for hikers, allowing adventurers to observe the local paradise-like landscapes from a bird’s eye view, with routes ranging from the famous Reinebringen and Ryten trails to the more understated Manen and Munken treks. Regardless of which region you are planning to visit in the country — be it Tromsø, the Sognefjord area, Bergen, or even Oslo — you can be sure that there are at least a couple of scenic hiking trails. And you can embrace luxury travel in Norway by taking advantage of these excellent hiking opportunities.

Wildlife safaris

Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can see the prehistoric Musk Oxen.

For nature enthusiasts, luxury holidays in Norway would be incomplete without immersive wildlife safaris. This Scandinavian country boasts a long coastline, deep fjords, and vast mountain plateaus, all of which firmly establish it as one of the world’s best places for experiencing Arctic wildlife in its natural habitat.

In the north, you can join whale-watching safaris in Tromsø in winter or even observe them year-round in the understated Vesterålen archipelago. Areas populated by the Sámi people are also home to many semi-domesticated reindeer, which are essential to their unique culture. Kirkenes, a small town in the country’s northeast, is a world-famous destination for immersive king crab safaris. And in the fjord country to the west, you can join thrilling RIB boat safaris and witness sea eagles, seals, and especially massive colonies of seabirds, including puffins.

In the summer, travellers can join exciting wildlife safaris in several of the country’s national parks in Southern and Eastern Norway. Dovrefjell is the only place in Europe where visitors can observe the prehistoric-looking Musk Oxen in their natural habitat. Local forests and national parks are also populated by vast numbers of moose, which travellers can see on guided safaris or even independently by car.

However, for the ultimate wildlife experience, consider taking a journey to Svalbard — the only place in Norway where you can observe polar bears, in addition to walrus colonies and massive seabird cliffs. Overall, luxury trips to Norway should absolutely include at least an element of wildlife safaris.

Sailing expeditions

Norway — with its extraordinarily long coastline and breathtaking fjords carved hundreds of kilometres deep inland — is a perfect destination for sailing expeditions. Multiple luxury Norway cruises offer multi-day sails along the coast, providing a truly spectacular way to explore the country’s most prominent destinations.

There are two major coastal cruise operators in the country — Hurtigruten and Havila. Hurtigruten, which has operated continuously since 1893 and is famed as “The Original Coastal Express,” makes a full round trip from Bergen to Kirkenes in 12 days, entering 34 ports along the coast. The ship makes longer stops in larger cities and enters the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord in summer, allowing travellers to book excursions together with their voyage packages. Havila, launched in 2021, follows the same route but uses newer, smaller, and environmentally-friendly ships with a more spacious design.

However, if longer expeditions along the coast are not to your liking, consider chartering a private yacht or booking a small, high-end ship for shorter Norway luxury cruises. The country abounds with breathtaking landscapes, offering many excellent destinations for such sails — from the fjords of Western Norway to Arctic voyages in the north and even the ultimate luxury — summer cruises to Svalbard.

Culinary pursuits

Sodd, a hearty and clear Norwegian meat soup, is a must-try when visiting the Trøndelag region.

It’s impossible to imagine luxury Norway holidays without embracing the local gastronomy, which is famed for its blend of the New Nordic movement, championing natural ingredients, and dining amidst dramatic settings. This Scandinavian country offers visitors a wealth of delicious options — from Michelin-starred restaurants and unique dining concepts to the tasting of traditional Norwegian delicacies.

Although Norway doesn’t have as many Michelin-starred restaurants as Denmark, it boasts several outstanding eateries, including the three-starred Maaemo in Oslo, the two-starred RE-NAA in Stavanger, and the one-starred Lysverket and Gåpast in Bergen. Another way to enjoy local cuisine is on a memorable fjord dinner cruise in larger cities — Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø — with the highlight being the New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise in Tromsø.

However, culinary pursuits in Norway extend well beyond these options. Restaurant Iris, one of the country’s most highly discussed culinary experiences, is housed inside the floating art installation on the Hardangerfjord. Guests are transported by boat to the restaurant, where they enjoy not just dinner, but a genuine theatrical event.

The exclusive Lofoten culinary week is a multi-day Norway luxury tour that combines foraging, fishing, and cooking classes. The luxury king crab safari in Kirkenes is undoubtedly an unforgettable adventure and the ultimate gourmet experience. And the World Heritage Food Tours in Trøndelag (the region around Trondheim) and Røros (a former mining town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) will tantalize the palate of any gourmet.

This is merely a glimpse of what the Norwegian gastronomy can offer. Be sure to pack your Norway luxury tours with some of these remarkable dining experiences.

Urban walks

The richness of Norwegian culture shines through the charming, historic streets of its cities. You can best explore these during your luxury holidays in Norway on a private walking tour, absorbing the unique local atmosphere and learning about their history.

In Norway, you will find many remarkable cities worth your time. Bergen, the country’s former royal seat, is home to the UNESCO-listed medieval wharf and the historic Bergenhus Fortress. Oslo, Norway’s cosmopolitan capital, offers a compelling blend of historic architecture with contemporary edifices, while being a genuine magnet for aficionados of art and adventure. The smaller town of Ålesund, situated on the west coast and built entirely in the Art Nouveau style, is a true gem on the country’s architectural map.

However, city walk opportunities are not limited to these popular choices alone. Stavanger, a gateway to Norway’s iconic hikes and the fabulous Lysefjord, is famous for its historic Gamle Stavanger, which features 173 impeccably preserved white-painted wooden houses. Trondheim, another former capital of the country, is famous for its colourful Bakklandet district and the Gothic Nidaros Cathedral. Røros, conveniently located halfway between Trondheim and Oslo, is a former copper mining town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a rare concentration of centuries-old wooden houses and courtyards.

Overall, Norway’s cities are an absolute delight to explore. Be sure to include private urban walks when planning your Norway luxury tours.

Best destinations for luxury holidays in Norway

Destinations that are worth including in your Norway luxury tours are virtually limitless. Therefore, to ensure your itinerary is tailored to perfection, we encourage you to consult a Nordiva travel specialist to begin working on your holiday plans. However, to inspire you, here are some of the country’s most incredible destinations, which can perfectly serve as the foundation for your itinerary.

Bergen

Bergen, the country’s second-largest city, is an absolute must-visit on luxury trips to Norway. Boasting impressive historic architecture and serving as a gateway to several remarkable fjords, this city is a delight to explore.

Urban explorers will particularly appreciate its well-preserved historic architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf and the 13th-century Bergenhus Fortress, a former royal seat of Norway. Bergen’s charming streets, however, remain vibrant and always bustling with activity, especially around the buzzing central market, best known for its fresh seafood. The city’s surrounding mountains and fjords provide ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, sauna visits, and other exciting outdoor activities.

However, Bergen’s biggest draw is its close proximity to the enchanting Sognefjord and Hardanger regions, home to Norway’s longest and third-largest fjords. Located within just a few hours’ drive, travellers can leave the city’s hustle and bustle behind and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Norwegian nature.

Tromsø

Known as Norway’s northern capital, Tromsø becomes a top destination in winter, when the sky lights up with the mesmerising Northern Lights and its snowy surroundings turn into a playground for exciting Arctic activities. Furthermore, the areas around the city boast some of the finest luxury resorts in Norway, including the Aera lodge, Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel near Alta, and SnowHotel near Kirkenes.

The primary reason thousands of travellers flock to this Arctic city from early autumn to early spring is the variety of thrilling winter activities available in Tromsø. Naturally, the main pursuit is chasing the magical Aurora — whether on a dedicated small-group bus tour, an Aurora dinner cruise, or even a Northern Lights hunt by snowmobile or reindeer sled. Winter is also the time when whales migrate near Tromsø’s shores, making wildlife safaris from ships and RIB boats a popular activity.

However, exciting winter activities amidst the snowy landscapes of Northern Norway remain the primary draw for adventurers. You can visit a Sámi camp for reindeer sledding and feeding, opt for the high pace of dog sledding, or rush through the uneven terrain of the Lyngen Alps on a snowmobile safari. Aficionados of skiing and snowshoeing will enjoy an excellent selection of available tours, while those seeking more extreme options — such as winter kayaking and ice floating — will also find plenty of options that will provide an adrenaline rush.

Overall, if you are planning your luxury holidays in Norway during winter, Tromsø is undoubtedly the prime destination to consider.

The Lofoten Islands

Svolvær, the largest town in the Lofoten archipelago.

The enchanting Lofoten Islands are an undisputed premium destination for Norway luxury tours year-round. This stunning archipelago is one of those rare travel spots that remain magical at any season, captivating every visitor with its surreal beauty — stunning white-sand beaches, tropical-like turquoise waters, scenic hikes, and towering mountain peaks.

During the warmer summer months, travellers in Lofoten can embrace diverse hiking adventures, go kayaking, swimming, or simply relax on the beaches under the sun. In winter, the archipelago transforms into a genuine Arctic wonderland, offering captivating Aurora safaris amidst the breathtaking landscapes of snowy fishing villages and imposing rock faces.

Ålesund

Panorama of Ålesund and the surrounding fjords from Mount Aksla.

Ålesund, a smaller town on Norway’s western coast, is a genuine architectural gem that was almost entirely built in the Art Nouveau style, which makes this city a pleasure to explore. Given that its city centre is truly compact, it is easy to stroll its charming cobblestone streets on foot or hike from the central park all the way to Mount Aksla to enjoy panoramic views.

However, Ålesund is a major destination for luxury holidays in Norway thanks to its proximity to several remarkable fjords — the understated Hjørundfjord and the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. Travellers who favour scenic road trips can embark on a drive along the Golden Route to Geiranger and Trollstigen, concluding in Åndalsnes. A second option for an iconic road trip includes a journey along the famous Atlantic Ocean Road to the small, picturesque town of Kristiansund, which is scattered across several islands.

With its elegant architecture, notable attractions, and proximity to many of the country’s iconic landmarks, Ålesund deserves a prominent place on any itinerary of luxury Norway tours.

Geiranger

Luxury travel in Norway is nearly impossible without enjoying an idyllic stay in the small village of Geiranger, nestled at the head of the breathtaking namesake fjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travellers here can enjoy a memorable stay amidst breathtaking landscapes, with some of the country’s most famous landmarks within easy reach, including Trollstigen, Trollveggen, and the Atlantic Ocean Road.

For those seeking a more serene holiday — given the volume of cruise ships in summer — an hour-long transfer to the nearby village of Valldal is highly recommended. Nonetheless, Geiranger’s Union Hotel is undoubtedly one of the finest luxury hotels in Norway, and a stay there promises any visitor a truly unforgettable experience. Overall, including this tiny yet magnificent village in your itinerary is an absolute must in summer.

Oslo

Oslo, the country’s economic and cultural powerhouse, must undoubtedly be on the itineraries of luxury Norway tours. Whether you fancy art, seek adventures, or wish to appreciate a mix of modern and historic architecture, this vibrant city has everything you need. Surrounded by dense forests and the Oslofjord with its numerous islands, Oslo also offers the perfect nature escape — whether on a scenic hike or aboard a luxury yacht.

This magnificent city truly boasts some of the finest examples of historic Nordic architecture, best exemplified by the elegant buildings on Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s main thoroughfare. However, the ultramodern Oslo Opera House, the new Barcode Project district, and the trendy Tjuvholmen area complement that elegance with a pinch of innovation and sleekness.

The city’s museums are a cultural marvel. Bygdøy, the inner peninsula of Oslo, is home to some of Scandinavia’s most extraordinary institutions, including the Viking Ships Museum (housing three well-preserved Viking-era vessels), the Fram Museum (home to the namesake ship), the Kon-Tiki Museum (detailing the legendary story of Thor Heyerdahl), and Norsk Folkemuseum (displaying buildings from different centuries and regions of Norway).

However, Oslo is also a perfect destination for art aficionados. The National Museum houses the largest collection of art in Scandinavia. MUNCH, housed in a striking new edifice next to the Opera House, is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Norwegian artist. The Astrup Fearnley Museum, a gallery of contemporary art in Tjuvholmen, will definitely fascinate and even challenge visitors. But perhaps the biggest attraction of all is the Vigeland Installation in Frogner Park — the world’s largest open-air installation by a single artist.

Ultimately, Oslo is a perfect place to kick-start your luxury travel in Norway — whether via the “Norway in a Nutshell” journey to the Sognefjord, along the scenic Rauma Railway to Åndalsnes, or by flight to Lofoten or Tromsø. And those willing to explore the rest of Scandinavia can hop on an overnight ferry to Copenhagen or take a five-hour train trip to Stockholm.

Best Norway luxury tours from Nordiva

Naturally, our speciality is bespoke tours, meticulously tailored to your unique preferences and passions. However, even the most extraordinary and ambitious travel plans require a blueprint.

To inspire you, we’ve handpicked an excellent selection of luxury Norway tours for diverse tastes and preferences:

However, if you wish to combine Norway luxury tours with travel to other Nordic countries, discover our multi-country itineraries:

Best luxury hotels in Norway

Travellers will find an exceptional selection of luxury hotels in Norway — whether for fjord and nature escapes or top-tier city stays. Here is just a glimpse of what this Scandinavian country has to offer.

Best luxury fjord and nature hotels in Norway

Geiranger Hotel Union, Geiranger. Situated on a mountainside overlooking the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, this first-class, family-owned hotel offers guests comfortable rooms with fjord views, extensive spa facilities, and a richly decorated on-site bar.

Union Øye Hotel, Øye. Dating back to 1891, this romantic luxury hotel is situated in a tiny village amidst the towering peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps, making it an ideal base for a peaceful retreat.

29/2 Aurland, Aurland. This beautifully decorated, family-run hotel on the shore of Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, offers a truly authentic Norwegian stay.

Walaker Hotel, Solvorn. Dating back to 1640, Walaker holds the distinction of being Norway’s oldest family-run hotel. It is idyllically situated on the shores of the Lustrafjord, an arm of the Sognefjord, offering guests an intimate atmosphere, a beautiful garden, and refined dining.

Kviknes Hotel, Balestrand. One of the country’s most prestigious hotels, Kviknes is located on the Sognefjord waterfront and has hosted many dignitaries and remarkable guests throughout centuries, including Wilhelm II, the Kaiser of Germany.

Fretheim Hotel, Flåm. Housed in a refurbished 19th-century manor, Fretheim provides a welcome sense of tranquillity in the otherwise noisy and bustling village of Flåm.

Storfjord Hotel, Glomset (Ålesund). Located within a 40-minute drive from Ålesund, Storfjord is an exceptional, 5-star boutique hotel that provides an intimate, rustic-chic retreat above the namesake fjord. The hotel’s secluded location, unrivalled fjord views, locally sourced four-course fine dining, and a wealth of guided activities ensure an unforgettable stay for every guest.

Best luxury hotels in Norwegian cities

THE THIEF, Oslo. Located in the trendy district of Tjuvholmen, THE THIEF is a top-tier boutique hotel, featuring contemporary interiors, in-built sound systems, a curated art collection throughout the hotel, a chic rooftop terrace with panoramic Oslofjord views, and a luxurious Turkish hammam spa.

Amerikalinjen, Oslo. Amerikalinjen is a luxury boutique hotel housed in the former 1919 headquarters of the Norwegian America Line, blending maritime heritage with modern Nordic design.

Sommerro Hotel, Oslo. Located in the Frogner district, Sommerro is a spectacular luxury hotel renowned for its opulent Art Deco design, high-end amenities, extensive spa offerings, and exceptional dining options.

Opus XVI, Bergen. Housed in a historic edifice dating from 1876 and owned by descendants of the famous composer Edvard Grieg, Opus XVI, with its sophisticated, contemporary design, embodies a true homage to the master’s heritage.

Brosundet Hotel, Ålesund. This remarkable hotel is uniquely situated directly on the Brosundet canal — the town’s main waterway — and is housed within two historic former Art Nouveau warehouses.

Britannia Hotel, Trondheim. A magnificently restored property dating back to 1870, Britannia is synonymous with luxury in Central Norway and is celebrated for its amenities, including modern spa facilities and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Victoria Hotel, Stavanger. Victoria, a classic hotel set in a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building dating from 1900, offers a perfect starting point for cruises to the Lysefjord and the Pulpit Rock with its excellent location on the waterfront.

Best luxury lodges in Norway

Luxury lodges in Norway can be divided into two categories — modern architectural cabins that maximise the view and historic, all-inclusive luxury retreats. Here are some of the best lodges to choose from for your luxury holidays in Norway.

Best luxury landscape lodges in Norway

Juvet Landscape Hotel, Valldal. This unique lodge offers minimalist, standalone “cubes” with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that frame specific nature views while preserving complete privacy.

Manshausen Island, Steigen. Here, you can relax in sleek glass-fronted “sea cabins” cantilevered over the water on a private 55-acre island — a perfect accommodation for Northern Lights viewing and nature retreats.

The Bolder, Ryfylke. These striking, modern lodges are built on stilts and cantilevered over the Lysefjord, providing unparalleled views of the fjord and the famous Preikestolen cliff face.

Woodnest, Odda. Adventurers will absolutely enjoy a stay in one of these luxury treetop cabins built around a living spruce tree, offering a stunning view of the Sørfjord and close proximity to the famous Trolltunga and Dronningstien hikes.

Hattvika Lodge, Ballstad (Lofoten Islands). This exceptional, high-end accommodation arguably offers the best possible stay in Lofoten. The property has been owned and operated by the same family for at least six generations since the 1870s. Visitors can choose to stay in traditional fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer) or opt for newer, sleek hillside cabins and suites. The lodge’s specialty is its on-site FANGST restaurant, which provides exceptional dining.

The Arctic Hideaway, Fleinvær Archipelago. This small, exclusive hotel comprises 12 multipurpose buildings on a car-free island, offering complete solitude and a perfect environment for focus.

PAN Treetop Cabins, Finnskogen Forest (Eastern Norway). Enjoy absolute wildlife immersion and the all-present silence of the woods by staying in one of these award-winning, tall-standing cabins nestled deep in the forest.

Best classic luxury lodges in Norway

Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge, Alta. Sorrisniva is a modern, luxurious lodge with gourmet dining, serving as a perfect, warm base for classic Arctic activities. Its specialty, however, is the seasonal Igloo Hotel, a hotel built entirely of snow and ice that opens every winter.

Eliassen Rorbuer, Hamnøy. Located on the waterfront of one of the most photographed places in the country, this lodge comprises a series of meticulously renovated fishermen’s huts, featuring bright, modern, minimalist Scandinavian interiors, full kitchens, and comfortable furnishings.

Svinøya Rorbuer, Svolvær. Another high-standard accommodation housed in former fishermen’s huts, Svinøya is famous for its historic cabins, a floating sauna with panoramic views, and the acclaimed Børsen Spiseri restaurant. Its premium cabins even include a private sauna and a fireplace.

Lyngen Lodge, Lyngenfjord. This intimate, traditional timber lodge with just eight en-suite rooms is fully staffed with professional chefs and guides, offering an all-inclusive adventure, ideal for high-end Northern Lights viewing.

Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel, Svalbard. Set in a former radio station, this hotel offers luxury amenitis in a truly remote setting amidst the Arctic wilderness in Svalbard — accessing the property is often possible only by snowmobile or by boat.

Best luxury resorts in Norway

Norway also boasts some of Europe’s most spectacular resorts — built as destinations themselves — that feature extensive facilities and highly rated spas. Here is our handpicked selection of the finest luxury resorts in Norway:

Norefjell Ski & Spa, Noresund. Located within a 90-minute drive from Oslo, this resort, featuring ski-in/ski-out access and extensive wellness areas with jacuzzis and saunas, has been voted on multiple occasions as the country’s leading spa resort.

Fýri Resort, Hemsedal. Fýri is a chic, design-focused mountain resort that entices visitors with its stylish Pool Club (spa area), high-end restaurants, games room, and direct access to the ski slopes in Hemsedal.

Vestlia Resort, Geilo. Vestlia has always been regarded as one of the favourite family-friendly resorts that offer the ultimate, high-end mountain holiday.

Radisson Blu Resort, Trysil. Located at the country’s largest ski resort, Radisson Blu Resort in Trysil boasts a massive pool complex with indoor surf, extensive ski-in/ski-out options, and a bowling alley, making it equally appealing for families.

Myrkdalen Mountain Resort, Voss. Widely recognised as the largest ski resort in Western Norway, Myrkdalen offers visitors a choice of staying in the central hotel and high-standard, self-catering apartments and cabins on the slopeside. Visitors can expect ski-in/ski-out access, a dedicated mountain sauna, multiple in-house restaurants, après-ski bars, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Best Norway luxury cruises

Luxury cruises in Norway fall into two main categories: the authentic Norwegian coastal express and ultra-luxury expedition lines.

The coastal express ships have been operated in Norway since 1893, when the first Hurtigruten voyage sailed along the coast. The historic operator — Hurtigruten — has offered coastal voyages ever since, today providing award-winning cuisine, a Northern Lights promise on round-trip voyages, and an intimate, authentic experience, which includes entry to 34 ports along the way. A newer operator, Havila Voyages, appeared on the market in 2021. Offering the newest, zero-emissions ships, Havila follows the exact same route as Hurtigruten.

There are also other Norway luxury cruises available. Typically, international cruise lines offer voyages to the classic Norwegian fjords, the Lofoten Islands, and Svalbard in summer, while providing exceptional service and amenities. Leading operators that offer cruises to Norway include Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, and Viking Ocean Cruises.

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