A fishing village in Norway

With its rugged coastline, snow-covered mountains, Arctic tundra and grand fjords, Norway has some of Europe's most jaw-dropping scenery.

Located in Scandinavia, Norway's far north straddles the Arctic Circle.

At the top of many travellers' lists is exploring Norway's towering fjords by cruise ship or kayak.

Although Norway has a controversial commercial whaling industry, in the north, whale watching is a popular tourist activity.

Norway's many wilderness areas lend themselves to hiking, sea kayaking and in the winter, skiing. Cross-country skiing is especially popular in Norway and the transportation of choice for many Norwegians (it is known as Nordic skiing, after all).

Oslo is the capital of Norway and notable attractions here include the Kongelige Slott (Royal Palace), the National Gallery, the Viking Ships Museum and the Akershus Castle. Oslo is also a thriving arts hub so make a point of attending a performance at the Norwegian National Theatre or a rock concert at the Oslo Spektrum.

Meanwhile, historic Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, has a buzzing music scene.

Survival guide

The official language is Norwegian although English is widely spoken.

The currency is the Norwegian Krone. Norway is among the most expensive countries in the world to travel in.

The best time to visit Noway is in the summer between May and September to experience the so-called "midnight sun". Alternatively, in the winter visitors can view the "northern lights" (Aurora Borealis).

Norway has a great range of accommodation catering to all budgets, from luxury hotels in the larger centres to spa resorts, traditional Scandinavian chalets, hostels and camping grounds.

Norway has international airports at Oslo and Trondheim. The regional airline is Scandinavian Airlines.