We adore Norway, it’s one of our favourite countries and we have visited Norway with kids a number of times. There’s so much in Norway for families from stunning ski trips to chic city breaks. If you’re looking for things to do in Norway for kids with Viking history galore and fantastic outdoor activities there’s something for everyone and every age. Use our index below to hop through the guide or read the whole thing for a wonderful blast of Norway with kids inspiration.
👩💻 About the author – Nichola is a family travel expert and has written for The Guardian, The Telegraph, Lonely Planet Magazine and Wanderlust, amongst many others. She’s spent over a decade travelling the world with her children, finding the best places for you to explore too.
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Visiting Norway with children
Norway is a gorgeous country for a family trip. The countryside here is so beautiful and for this reason it’s ideal for those who like to get outdoors and have some fun. It’s well known for its skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer. If you’re looking for a winter vacation in Norway or looking to enjoy warmer breaks in with long daylight, there are some buzzing cities as well for lots of history and cultural activities.
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Amazing trips to take in Norway with kids
We have skied in Kvitfjell, taken a skiing trip to Beitostolen and skied in Trysil with kids. Norway is a fantastic destination for skiing in. We have also had city breaks to Oslo which is a wonderful city to visit with kids (or without).
Why Norway is perfect for families
Norway is a dream destination for family travel. The country is safe, clean, and welcoming, with locals who love children and family-friendly amenities at every turn. There are so many kid-friendly Norway attractions like interactive museums, breathtaking outdoor experiences, and cosy places to stay. Norway offers a perfect mix of education and fun.
Best things to do in Norway with kids
1. Discover Oslo – Norway’s vibrant capital
Oslo is a great starting point for a family adventure. This compact city is filled with exciting attractions that will delight kids and parents alike. It’s a city we’ve been to multiple times and always find something to enjoy.
- Top activities in Oslo for kids:
- Vigeland Park: A sculpture park with over 200 statues, open spaces, and play areas. Find out more here.
- Norwegian Museum of Cultural History: Step back in time with open-air exhibits featuring traditional houses, farms, and Viking relics. Find out more here.
- Fram Museum: Explore the famous polar ship Fram and learn about Arctic expeditions. Find out more here.
- Oslo Opera House: Climb its sloping roof for panoramic views of the city. Find out more here.
- TusenFryd Amusement Park: Just outside the city, this park is packed with rides and attractions for all ages. Find out more here.
- The Viking Museum: Explore Viking ships and artifacts found nearby at this wonderful museum. Find out more here.
- Family-friendly stays in Oslo:
Read more blog posts on Oslo
2. Marvel at Bergen – The gateway to the Fjords
Bergen is a picturesque city surrounded by fjords and mountains, offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor fun.
- Top activities in Bergen for kids:
- Bryggen Wharf: Explore the colourful wooden buildings, now housing shops and museums. Find out about a tour of this area here.
- Fløibanen Funicular: Ride the funicular up Mount Fløyen for hiking trails, a playground, and stunning views. Find out more here.
- Aquarium Bergen: Discover marine life, including seals, penguins, and tropical fish. Find out more and get your skip-the-line ticket here.
- Edvard Grieg Museum: Introduce kids to music at the composer’s home. Find out more here.
- Family-friendly stays in Bergen:
3. Explore the Fjords
Norway’s fjords are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for families. The stunning landscapes and family-friendly activities make them an unforgettable experience.
- Top Fjords to visit with kids:
- Geirangerfjord: Enjoy boat cruises, hiking, and the famous Seven Sisters Waterfall. Find out more about taking a tour here.
- Sognefjord: Norway’s longest fjord, with kayaking, fjord safaris, and scenic train rides. Find out more about available tours here.
- Lysefjord: Home to the iconic Pulpit Rock, a great hike for adventurous families. Check out a tour here.
- Nærøyfjord: Take a ferry through this narrow fjord surrounded by towering cliffs. Discover this family friendly tour here.
- Kid-friendly activities in the Fjords:
- RIB boat safaris: Thrilling rides to explore the fjords up close. Find out more here.
- Hiking trails: Choose short, easy trails for families with young kids.
- Fjord Villages: Visit charming towns like Flåm, Gudvangen, and Aurland.
- Family-friendly stays in the Fjords:
4. Visit Tromsø – The Arctic adventure hub
Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle, offers unique experiences, especially for families visiting in winter.
- Top Activities in Tromsø for Kids:
- Northern Lights safaris: A magical experience for the whole family. Find tours here.
- Polaria Aquarium: Watch Arctic marine life and learn about polar ecosystems. Get your skip-the-line tickets here.
- Reindeer sleigh rides: Meet Sami herders and try a traditional sleigh ride. Get your tickets here.
- Tromsø cable car: Ride up Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views. Get your skip-the-line tickets here.
- Family-friendly stays in Tromsø:
5. Ski in Norway’s amazing resorts
Norway is the home of skiing. The country is intrinsically linked with this wonderful sport. We have enjoyed a number of trips skiing in Norway and it’s one of our favourite places to ski.
- Top ski resorts for families:
- Trysil: A lovely large ski resort with plenty of facilities.
- Beitostolen: Compact and really family friendly. The sweetest resort.
- Kvitfjell: Great for families looking for a quiet resort with plenty of fun including mascots and great restaurants.
Read more blog posts on skiing in Norway:
6. Enjoy Norway’s National Parks
Norway is home to incredible national parks where kids can connect with nature.
Top national parks for families:
Jotunheimen National Park: Perfect for family hikes and glacier tours.
Hardangervidda National Park: Offers easy trails and chances to spot wild reindeer.
Rondane National Park: Great for families seeking less crowded trails.
Kid-friendly activities in national parks:
Hiking and camping: Family-friendly trails abound, and many parks offer designated camping areas.
Wildlife spotting: Look for deer, elk, and even Arctic foxes.
Fishing: A fun and relaxing activity for kids.
7. Relax on Norway’s Beaches
Though not traditionally known for beaches, Norway offers some beautiful sandy shores, especially during summer.
- Top beaches for families:
- Haukland Beach (Lofoten Islands): Crystal-clear waters and soft sand.
- Sjøsanden (Mandal): A long, family-friendly beach with calm waters.
- Bystranda (Kristiansand): A city beach with playgrounds and picnic spots.
8. Experience the Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are a stunning archipelago offering dramatic landscapes and unique activities.
- Top activities in the Lofoten Islands for kids:
- Viking Museum (Borg): Step into a reconstructed Viking longhouse and learn about Norse history. Find out more here.
- Sea kayaking: Explore sheltered waters perfect for families.
- Fishing villages: Visit charming villages like Reine and Henningsvær.
- Family-friendly stays in Lofoten:
9. Go wildlife watching
Kids will love spotting Norway’s diverse wildlife, from puffins to polar bears.
- Top wildlife activities for families:
- Whale watching in Andenes: See orcas and humpbacks in their natural habitat.
- Puffin safaris: Visit puffin colonies along the coast.
- Moose safaris: Join guided tours to see these majestic animals.
10. Take a scenic train ride
Norway’s train journeys are amongst the most scenic in the world and a hit with kids.
- Best train rides for families:
- Flåm Railway: A short but breathtaking ride through fjord country. Find out more here.
- Bergen Line: Travel from Oslo to Bergen, passing snow-capped peaks and valleys.
- Rauma Railway: Marvel at dramatic landscapes and iconic bridges.
11. Explore Svalbard – Norway’s Arctic archipelago
For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, visit Svalbard, a land of glaciers and polar bears.
- Top activities in Svalbard for kids:
- Dog sledding: An unforgettable Arctic adventure. Find a tour here.
- Ice Caves: Explore frozen landscapes and unique formations.
- Polar bear spotting: Guided safaris in search of these magnificent creatures.
- Family-friendly stays in Svalbard:
What makes Norway family-friendly?
- Safety: Norway consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world.
- Clean environment: Fresh air, clean water, and pristine landscapes make it ideal for kids.
- Accessible amenities: Restaurants, hotels, and attractions often cater to families with high chairs, kids’ menus, and play areas.
- Educational opportunities: Interactive museums and cultural sites make learning fun.
Tips for visiting Norway with kids
- Dress for the weather: Layer clothing to adapt to Norway’s changing climate.
- Book early: Norway’s accommodations and tours fill up quickly, especially in summer.
- Take advantage of discounts: Many attractions offer free or reduced tickets for kids.
Sample 2-week Norway itinerary for families
- Days 1-3: Explore Oslo.
- Days 4-5: Visit Bergen and ride the Fløibanen.
- Days 6-7: Cruise the fjords.
- Days 8-9: Adventure in Tromsø.
- Days 10-12: Relax in the Lofoten Islands.
- Days 13-14: Discover Svalbard or unwind on a beach.
Norway is a family-friendly paradise filled with incredible adventures, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality. Whether your family loves history, nature, or thrilling activities, Norway has it all. Start planning your unforgettable family trip to Norway with kids today.
Fun facts about Norway for kids
- 1. Land of the midnight sun
In parts of Norway during summer, the sun never sets. This happens in regions above the Arctic Circle, where kids can play outside at midnight in broad daylight. It’s called the Midnight Sun and lasts for weeks. - 2. Northern Lights dazzle the sky
Norway is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. These magical, colourful lights dance across the sky in the winter months, especially in northern areas like Tromsø. - 3. Viking heritage
Norway was home to the Vikings, fierce explorers and sailors from over 1,000 years ago. Kids can visit Viking museums to see ships and learn about their adventurous journeys. - 4. Reindeer roam free
In northern Norway, reindeer are a common sight. The Indigenous Sami people herd reindeer as part of their culture. These animals are vital for transportation and food in Arctic regions. - 5. Polar Bears in Svalbard
On the Svalbard islands, part of Norway, there are more polar bears than people. Kids who visit Svalbard learn about protecting these amazing animals and their icy habitats. - 6. Home of Trolls
Norway is famous for its mythical trolls. Stories say these funny creatures live in forests and mountains. Statues and toys of trolls are popular souvenirs. - 7. World’s longest road tunnel
The Lærdal Tunnel in Norway is the world’s longest road tunnel, stretching over 15 miles. It even has colourful lights to keep drivers entertained. - 8. Cheese slicers invented here
Norwegians love cheese so much that they invented the cheese slicer in 1925. Now, people worldwide use it to cut perfect slices of cheese. - 9. Brown cheese is a thing
Norway’s famous brown cheese, Brunost, tastes sweet and creamy. Many kids in Norway enjoy it on their sandwiches or waffles.
