10 Best Weekend Breaks on a Budget in Norway

Bergen boasts an idyllic location, surrounded by incredible mountains on one side and fjords on the other. The surrounding area can be easily explored on foot, although there are plenty of cool things to see in town too, and many are completely free. How about a walk along the city's iconic dock, which has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1979? From here, it's just a short stroll to the bustling fish market, a great place to explore and sample a wide range of delicious seafood and local produce. Also nearby is the Bergenhus Fortress – one of the oldest fortresses in Norway. Visiting the fortress is free and a great way to soak up some exciting historical knowledge while enjoying some unbeatably beautiful views over Vågen Bay.

No trip to Stavanger would be complete without a visit to Old Stavanger (Gamle Stavanger) – home to the best preserved wooden buildings in Northern Europe and one of the oldest inhabited parts of the centre. Lose yourself in the charming old streets in a part of the city that was declared one of the most conservation-worthy towns in Norway by UNESCO in 1975. Then take yourself to the Våland Tower, which is located atop the highest point in the city and dates all the way back to 1895. The perfect place to enjoy stunning views over the city and a great spot for a selfie. One of the most well known symbols of Stavanger is the Skagenkaien harbour front. Check out its quaint quayside buildings, which date back to the 1800s. In the evenings, this area is the beating heart of the city's pulsating nightlife.

Ålesund is famous for its Jugendstil architecture, which can be appreciated from all around as you stroll through the town. Some 300 buildings in the town are characterised by this style with interesting towers and ornaments on their facades. If you choose Ålesund for your weekend break then you won't want to miss out on the incredible views you get over the town, archipelago and the Sunnmør Alps. The best views are found at the Aksla Viewing Point atop Aksla Mountain. You can reach the summit by car, public transport or by climbing the 418 steps that will take you directly to the top. Enjoy some fresh air as you admire the views and then grab a seat inside or out at the mountain lodge for a drink and a bite to eat.

Deep in the Geiranger Fjord lies the beautiful town of Geiranger – a perfect destination for travellers on a budget. The Eagle Road (Ørnevegen) is the widest part of Route 63, which runs between Geiranger and Eidsdal, and with its 11 hairpin turns, the journey to its highest point 620 metres above sea level is definitely a unique experience! At the very top lies the Ørnesvingen Viewpoint, where you'll also find a waterfall. From up top you can enjoy tremendous views over the Geiranger Fjord, which is recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site, and the Seven Sisters Mountain Range (De Syv Søstre). The Eagle Road was first opened in 1955, giving Geiranger its first year-round road connection to the rest of the country. The road has been a popular attraction ever since and its name is said to come from the many eagles that once lived in the area.

Kristiansand is a cherished holiday destination for tourists and Norwegians alike, especially in summer. But the city is also well worth a visit in the autumn and winter. Towards the south you'll find Bystranda – a pleasant sandy beach with tranquil waters. Nearby you'll find the Posebyen district with its charming white wooden houses. And as you wander down the narrow streets, you'll really get a sense of the relaxed spirit of southern Norway. Just a short drive away in the Grim district lies the Ravnedalen Valley Nature Park. The park is open all year round and well worth a visit whenever you find yourself in the Kristiansand area. Take a stroll through the well-preserved park and enjoy its many bridges, monuments and pretty dam full of swans.

No visit to the Nordland region in Norway is complete without a trip to Lofoten. The area is famous for its distinctive landscape with its dramatic mountains and peaks, open waters and stunning beaches. The perfect place for hiking, fishing and much, much more. Lofoten has also become something of a surfing mecca with surfers from all over the world coming to try their hand on the waves of the Norwegian Sea. If you decide to tackle one of the mighty summits then set your sights on the Tjeldbergtind Mountain. From the top, you'll have magnificent views of nearby mountains as well as Svolvær and the West Fjords. The route is 2.4 miles in length and suitable for all ages. Many of the beaches in Lofoten, such as Ramberg or Ytresand, are renowned as some of the most beautiful in the world.

Bodø is a lively town with plenty to offer. Visitors can check out the Bodin Church, which is the oldest building in the town. The building's architecture bears the markings of different styles from across the centuries. Stroll down the gravel path that runs alongside the Bodøelva River and enjoy the sights at Bodøelva River Park such as the three menhir stones from the early iron age that can be found at Vågønes Gård. Or if you'd rather head for higher elevations, we recommend hiking up the 366-metre tall mountain plateau of Keiservarden, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the whole town.

Tromsø is the perfect destination for an autumn break with heaps to do both indoors and out. Head to the island of Tromsøya, for example, and visit the northernmost botanical garden in the world. The garden is part of the Tromsø University Museum and home to thousands of different plants that are able to thrive and survive in the arctic's capital. If you're interested in art, pay a visit to the Northern Norway Art Museum (Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum) or simply stroll around town and admire the wide array of street art that Tromsø has to offer. No trip to Tromsø would be complete without a visit to the Arctic Cathedral, the most emblematic landmark of the town. Admire the building's original architectural design and the stunning artworks that adorn the church.

Trondheim is a vibrant city that's simply packed full of free cultural experiences. If you like museums, there's the Armoury, the Justice Museum and the Tramway Museum. Trondheim has many interesting churches that look great in photos, including the world-famous Nidaros Cathedral. Be sure to also check out the ruins of St. Clement's Church (Klemenskirken), which were discovered in 2016. The church dates back to around the year 1000 and has a strong connection to the many tales of Norway's St. Olaf. If you're interested in plant life then a visit to Ringve Botanical Garden is a must. The garden is now a part of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. There is also plenty to see and experience as you stroll along the peaceful banks of the Nidelva River.

There's plenty to see in Oslo by simply strolling around and checking out the most important landmarks. Head to the Opera House, where you can admire the building's characteristic marble roof, which stretches all the way down to the water's edge. Then visit the Akershus Fortress and experience several hundred years of history. The green fortress area makes a great place for a stroll as you admire the historical structures around you. Just a short walk away, you'll find Oslo City Hall, which was commenced in 1931 and opened in 1950. The City Hall is open to everyone and contains artworks by renowned artists including Edvard Munch. Oslo is known for its beautiful parks and so a visit to Frogner Park and the Royal Palace is an absolute must when you come here.