From its iconic fjords to magnificent, snow-capped mountains to fairytale-esque cities, Norway is a breathtaking visual bonanza. Featuring a postcard pretty landscape that can be explored by hiking, boating and long drives, the country is also known for its stunning natural phenomenon like the surreal northern lights and midnight sun. Norway is a year round adventure that is pulsating with stories of a rich past, innumerable cultural expeditions and lots of outdoor activities. Discover its little known architectural gems, picturesque rural communities and vast collection of ancient artifacts. In case you haven’t figured it out yet, the Arendelle kingdom featuring in Disney’s Frozen comes very close to the description of a quintessential Norwegian town. Here are our expert recommendations of the top 10 places to visit in Norway.

1. Alesund

Nestled on Norway’s scenic western coast, Alesund is the base for viewing the country’s signature northwestern fjords and alpine mountains. The town’s current photogenic appearance can be attributed to a restoration post a massively destructive 1904 fire that nearly devastated the region. Its unique, Jugendstil, brick and stone architectural style epitomizes Northern Europe’s tryst with Art Nouveau. Climb the 400 odd steps to reach Fjellstua viewing point or learning about Alesund’s art and architecture at the Art Nouveau Center. Click On the Next Button to See Next.

Bergen is Norway’s second largest metropolis and an important port of trade right from the middle era. Its picturesque waterfront area (Bryggen district) lures tourists and merchants alike. Sample fresh sea-food at one of the scenic sea-side restaurants or go exploring the neighboring fjords and islands using Bergen as a day tripping base. A quick tip to get familiar with the region? Visit Bergen’s Gateway to the Fjords.

While Norway’s natural landscape is dotted with fjords almost everywhere, the most striking ones are found in the country’s western region. The trademark of these western fjords is that they are narrow, encircled by steep rocks, elevated mountains and deep trenches. Naeroyfjord and Geirangerfjord are two of the most illustrious western fjords.

One of Norway’s most sought after tourist attractions; Lofoten is a cluster of islands in the country’s northern region. On every visitor’s wish list, it features naturally beautiful fishing communities dotting a rugged sapphire coast and a comparatively moderate climate. Summer temperatures can rise up to 23 degrees Celsius owing to the Gulf Stream circulation.

Norway’s cosmopolitan capital is modern and vibrant yet surprisingly laid-back. Embraced by the Oslofjord shores and thick emerald forests, the city is filled with parks, sprawling outdoor spaces, biking zones and hiking trails. Visit Oslo’s buzzing modern city center (with a slow of museums, bustling bars and eateries and the Noble Peace Center. The culturally endowed city is home to an outdoor museum (featuring over 150 historic structures from across the country), a –hold your breath – Munch museum.

Nestled in Norway’s southwest region, Stavanger is one of those rare Norwegian destinations featuring stretches of sandy beaches (perfect for summer sunbathing and cruising). Hop on a cruise to explore the region’s fjords, and other natural attractions located a short distance from the coast. Visit Rogaland Kunstmusuem (featuring an inspiring collection of Norwegian art), the Stavanger Cathedral and Gamle Stavanger district (takes you back to erstwhile Scandinavia).

Jotunheimen is one of Norway’s popular national parks nestled in its southern central region. The park comprises multiple mountain ranges, including the country’s 29 loftiest peaks, while also housing the spellbinding beautiful Vettisfossen waterfalls (Norway’s highest fall at 900 feet). The place is sprinkled with mountain lodge stays, exciting walking trails, glacial hiking zones, skiing facilities, summit tour operators and much more.

Northern Norway’s largest city, Tromso is popular for its spectacular natural beauty and 18 th century homes. Go on a museum trip to explore Tromsoya Island’s glorious past or stroll through the city’s vast birch forests. Enjoy stunning views of its surroundings (pretty mountains, forests and fjords) from atop the Storsteinen Mountain via the Fjellheisen Cable Car. Popular, family-friendly attractions in the region include the Polaria arctic aquarium and Polar Museum. Located 350 kilometers from the Arctic Circle, this is one of the planet’s best destinations to witness the Northern Lights.

A cluster of islands surrounded by the Barents Sea, Norwegian Sea and Arctic Sea, Svalbard is the northernmost permanent settlement on planet earth. With a population of less than 3000 inhabitants (mainly Longyearben and Barentsburg), visitors flock here to visit the region’s raw, snow-filed wilderness. Its untamed natural features include rugged mountains, isolated glaciers and strikingly beautiful wildlife (think polas bears, reindeer, seals, arctic foxes and walruses).

Established in 997, Trondheim’s rise to glory dates back to the Viking Age when it acted as the nation’s capital and later, religious hub. Today, the place is a great destination for exploring Norway’s culture, religious backdrop and history. Visit Nidaros Cathedral (northernmost middle ages cathedral) and Sverresborg (a restored erstwhile castle). Trondheim’s walls reverberate with remnants from Norway’s glorious past.