Oslo is clean, modern, and expensive. The Opera House (you can walk on the roof) and the Munch Museum (home to "The Scream") are highlights. The Viking Ship Museum has actual Viking ships from the 9th century. Vigeland Park has over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Oslo is pleasant but not as exciting as other Scandinavian capitals.

Bergen on the west coast is more charming. Bryggen (the old wharf) has colorful wooden buildings (UNESCO site). The Fish Market has fresh seafood (expensive but delicious). Take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for views over the city and fjords. Bergen is rainy (it rains about 240 days a year), but it's beautiful and a gateway to the fjords.

The fjords are why most people come to Norway. Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord are the most famous. Steep cliffs, waterfalls, and blue water. You can take boat tours, kayak, or drive along the edges. The fjords are stunning, dramatic, and worth the cost.

The Norway in a Nutshell tour is a popular route from Oslo or Bergen that combines trains, boats, and buses through fjords and mountains. It's touristy but scenic.

Tromsø in the Arctic is Northern Lights in winter (November-March) and midnight sun in summer (May-July). It's the best place in Norway to see the Northern Lights. Tromsø is cold, remote, and magical.

The Lofoten Islands above the Arctic Circle have dramatic mountains, fishing villages, and some of the most beautiful scenery in Norway. It's remote, expensive, and worth it if you have time.

Norwegian food is seafood-focused. Salmon, cod, shrimp, and whale (yes, whale is legal and common in Norway). Brunost (brown cheese, an acquired taste). Norwegian food is fresh but expensive. A meal at a restaurant is 200-300 NOK ($20-30). A beer is 90-120 NOK ($9-12).

Norwegian people are reserved, polite, and speak perfect English. They value nature, outdoor activities, and work-life balance. Norwegians are friendly but not overly warm. They respect personal space.

Getting around is expensive. Trains are scenic but pricey. Buses are cheaper but slower. Ferries connect coastal towns and islands. If you want to explore fjords or remote areas, rent a car (but gas is expensive).

Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Hostels run 300-500 NOK ($30-50)/night. A meal at a restaurant is 200-300 NOK ($20-30). Groceries are expensive too. Budget travelers struggle here. Cook your own meals, stay in hostels, and use public transportation sparingly.

When to go: Summer (June-August) is the best time for weather and midnight sun. Days are long, and temperatures are mild (15-20°C/60-68°F). Winter (December-March) is cold, dark, and snowy, but it's the best time for Northern Lights and winter activities. Spring and fall are in-between (cheaper but unpredictable weather).

Norway is stunningly beautiful and stunningly expensive. If you have the budget and love nature, it's worth every krone. If you're broke, skip it or just pass through.