Just Back From | Norway

One of our travel advisors, Della, recently took a two-week vacation to Norway, where she enjoyed 10 nights on a Hurtigruten Cruise and other nights at Scandic Nidelven, in Trondheim. Here are Della's tips for what to do, see and eat while in Norway.

Insider’s Tip: When climbing Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock), try to get on the first ferry (8 a.m.) over there — you won't have to move out of the way of other hikers coming down yet and you will have the top almost to yourself.

Overall impressions: Stunning!

Favorite moment: Reaching the top of Preikestolen (bucket list, check).

You can't stop thinking about: Glaciers, fjords, waterfalls, lighthouses, reindeers, photo ops galore!

Favorite meal or meals: We visited a replica of a Viking chieftain's home and had a feast fit for a king. Okay, not a real chieftain, but it was fun to pretend.

Favorite restaurants, museums or sightseeing: Stavanger, Bergen and Trondheim are all great historical cities to walk or bike around. Trondheim's Nidaros Cathedral (built over the tomb of St. Olaf, the patron saint of Norway), the Old Town of Bergen and the waterfront cafés in Stavanger are delightful.

Where or what to drink: Waffles are everywhere. I enjoyed some nice local craft beers after our days of walking!

Neighborhood to explore: We really enjoyed the university town of Trondheim — the warehouses, the cathedral and the wide variety of shops, cafés and outdoor markets.

Day trip suggestion(s): Preikestolen, glaciers and North Cape.

Surprising fact or tidbit: The population of Norway is only 5 million.

Brought back/souvenir: Actually nothing but photos (a first for me).

What to pack: Prepare for weather changes and bring a variety of comfortable shoes.

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