Regions of Norway
Explore Norway by region. From the Arctic north to the milder south, each region offers unique landscapes, culture, and attractions.
Tours and activities in every region of Norway.
Browse Norway tours →Norway's Geographic Regions
Norway stretches over 1,750 km from north to south, creating diverse geographic and cultural regions. Each area has its own distinct character, climate, and attractions.
Northern Norway
Land of the midnight sun and northern lights. Home to Tromsø, Lofoten, and the North Cape.
Western Norway
Fjord country with Bergen, Stavanger, and iconic attractions like Pulpit Rock and Geirangerfjord.
Eastern Norway
Norway's most populated region with Oslo, major ski resorts, and beautiful inland valleys.
Scandinavia
See Norway in context with Sweden, Denmark, and the Nordic region.
Administrative Regions (Counties)
As of 2024, Norway is divided into 15 counties (fylker):
Northern Norway
Nordland, Troms, Finnmark
Central Norway
Trøndelag, Møre og Romsdal
Western Norway
Vestland, Rogaland
Southern Norway
Agder
Eastern Norway
Oslo, Akershus, Østfold, Buskerud, Innlandet, Vestfold, Telemark
Climate by Region
- Northern Norway: Arctic/subarctic - cold winters, cool summers, midnight sun/polar night
- Western Norway: Oceanic - mild, wet, moderated by Gulf Stream
- Eastern Norway: Continental - cold winters, warm summers, less precipitation
- Southern Norway: Mildest climate - warm summers, moderate winters
Best Time to Visit Each Region
- Northern Norway: late September to March for the northern lights and winter activities; late May to July for the midnight sun.
- Western Norway: May to September for fjord cruises, mountain roads and hiking. Many high mountain roads, such as Trollstigen, close in winter.
- Eastern Norway: December to April for skiing at resorts such as Trysil and Hafjell; summer for Oslo and the inland lakes.
- Southern Norway: June to August for beaches, sailing and the white wooden towns of the Sørlandet coast.
Planning a Route Across Regions
A popular two-week route starts in Oslo, crosses to Bergen by train, continues through the fjords to Ålesund and Geiranger, and ends with a flight north to Tromsø or Lofoten. Distances are long and roads are often narrow and winding, so allow more time than the kilometres suggest, and check ferry timetables when driving along the fjords.
Norway's County Reform
Norway has reorganised its counties twice in recent years. In 2020 several counties were merged into larger units such as Viken, Vestland and Troms og Finnmark. In 2024 some of those mergers were reversed: Viken was split into Østfold, Akershus and Buskerud, Vestfold og Telemark became Vestfold and Telemark again, and Troms og Finnmark was divided into Troms and Finnmark. Older maps and guidebooks may still show the earlier names.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many regions does Norway have?
Norway is commonly divided into five geographic regions: Northern Norway, Central Norway (Trøndelag), Western Norway, Southern Norway and Eastern Norway. Administratively it has 15 counties.
How many counties does Norway have?
Since 1 January 2024, Norway has 15 counties (fylker).
Which region of Norway is best for fjords?
Western Norway, around Bergen, Stavanger and Ålesund, has the most famous fjords, including the Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord, Hardangerfjord and Lysefjord.