Buzz
Are you longing to witness the beauty of the northern lights resembling ribbons dancing across the sky? Are you fascinated by the blend of ancient charm and majestic wilderness in Norway but lack experience in independent travel in Norway? Fear not, Mytour will provide you with all the essential information for this journey.
1. Norway – The Land of Midnight Sun
Norway boasts the world's longest coastline and shares borders with several countries such as Sweden, Finland, and Russia. Thanks to its abundant natural resources, travelers embarking on independent travel in Norway will be fortunate to behold breathtaking fjords, pristine plateaus, and lush green fields.
The pristine beauty of Norway captivates from the first glance.
According to many sources, it's recommended to experience independent travel in Norway during the summer months (from June to August). During this time, you can leisurely stroll through the streets, admire the clear Norwegian sky, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 20 degrees Celsius. Especially during this period, you can experience the sun shining until 8 p.m. Consequently, this country in summer will bring you fascinating experiences and endless summer nights.
An independent journey to Norway delights everyone.
Moreover, you can also visit Norway in winter if you're a snow enthusiast and desire to participate in winter activities in this country. Winter in Norway typically lasts from December to March, with average temperatures ranging from -7 to -1 degree Celsius. During this time, you can engage in popular activities in this region: skiing, ice skating, and witnessing the extremely rare northern lights when traveling independently in Norway.
2. How to Apply for a Visa for Independent Travel in Norway?
Firstly, it's important to note that Norway is part of the Schengen area, so you can apply for this visa for convenience in traveling around Europe rather than specifically applying for a Norwegian visa. The visa application process is not overly difficult, but first-time applicants may encounter some challenges. To overcome this, you need to thoroughly prepare the following documents:
- Personal identification documents.
- Visa application form.
- Original passport with at least 6 months validity from the intended date of departure for independent travel in Norway and with at least 2 blank pages.
- 02 passport-sized photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm) taken against a white background.
- Notarized copies of ID card and household registration book.
- Copies of marriage certificate or single status certificate/divorce certificate.
♦ Employment Documents
For Employees/Officials
- Labor contract/recruitment decision or enterprise certification for labor utilization.
- Salary payment voucher for the last 03 months/bank account statement for the last 03 months.
For Business Owners
- Business registration certificate.
- Tax submission report for the last 03 months.
If retired: Retirement card/Certificate/Pension payment slip.
If you're a student
- Confirmation letter from the school (with the school leader's signature and seal).
- Leave of absence letter for independent travel in Norway with school confirmation.
- Copy of transcripts, academic records.
♦ Financial documents
- Savings book with a value of at least 200,000,000 VND per person.
- Documents related to real estate: house papers, land, car ownership (if any).
♦ Visa application submission address for independent travel to Norway
Before submitting your application, it is advisable to schedule an appointment on the VFS Global website. Once the appointment is confirmed, you need to print the appointment confirmation email and bring all required documents to the center.
- Hanoi: Ocean Park Building, 2nd Floor, Room 207, No. 1 Dao Duy Anh Street, Phuong Mai Ward.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Resco Building, 3rd Floor, No. 94 – 96, Nguyen Du Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
Apply for a Schengen visa for convenient travel.
Your documents will be forwarded to the Norwegian Embassy and will be processed within a minimum of 15 days from the date of receipt. However, processing time may extend up to 30 days if your documents do not meet the requirements or require additional supplements. To ensure a smooth visa process, you should track the progress on the VFS website.
3. How to Move Around During Your Independent Trip to Norway?
3.1. Traveling to Norway
Presently, Vietnam offers direct flights to Oslo Airport (Norway) from Hanoi. However, flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang require layovers in a third country. Details are as follows:
♦ Hanoi – Oslo: Approximately 19 airlines operate this route, allowing you to avoid layovers in a third country by choosing airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific Airlines, Pacific Airlines, etc. Therefore, travel time for independent travel in Norway is approximately 16 hours, with average fares ranging from $375 to $4910 per trip.
♦ Ho Chi Minh City – Oslo: There are about 24 airlines operating this route, giving you flexibility to choose flights based on price and schedule, such as Vietnam Airlines, Etihad Airways, Emirates, etc. However, you'll need a layover in a third country, extending travel time to around 20 hours, with average fares ranging from $380 to $4189 per trip.
♦ Da Nang – Oslo: Fewer airlines operate this route, with only 5 airlines including Cathay Pacific Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Air France, and Silkair. Similar to flights from Ho Chi Minh City, you'll also need a layover in a third country, resulting in relatively longer travel time and fares ranging from $542 to $3971 per trip.
3.2. Transportation within Norway
When traveling independently in Norway, you can experience various types of services and different modes of transportation to facilitate your sightseeing and leisure activities. If you're unsure where to start, consider the following means of transportation:
3.2.1. Public Transport
In European countries in general and Norway in particular, you'll find efficient and safe public transportation options readily available. If you intend to primarily use public transportation during your journey, you can purchase daily, weekend, or weekly passes.
3.2.2. Taxi Services
If you're traveling independently in Norway with a group or are unfamiliar with transportation routes, it's advisable to use taxis. Although this mode of transportation may be more expensive compared to others, traveling in a group can still save you costs.
3.2.3. Car Rental
If you desire to explore Norway's roads and scenery at your own pace, consider renting a car. You can rent one anywhere in the city for around 550 KR (approximately 53 USD). However, weigh this option carefully if you don't have a valid driver's license. Norwegian laws are stricter than those in Vietnam, and inadequate preparation may adversely affect your independent travel in Norway.
3.2.4. Train Travel
If you have the opportunity for independent travel in Norway, consider experiencing train travel in Norway to admire the beauty of its mountains and lakes. Norway currently operates numerous train routes, and you can purchase Minipris tickets to save costs.
Admire the natural beauty by train when traveling independently in Norway.
If you wish to experience independent travel in Norway by train sightseeing, consider the following train journeys: The Flam Railway, Raumabanen, Tertitten Urskog-Hølandsbanen, Nordlandsbanen, and Authentic Scandinavia.
4. What to Do When Traveling Independently to Norway?
4.1. Oslo, the Capital
In 2019, the capital Oslo was recognized as a green capital for its significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. So, while strolling through the capital, you'll breathe in the fresh air, surrounded by the greenery of trees and rivers. On weary days, you're ready to leave it all behind and head to Oslo, to rejuvenate yourself when traveling independently in Norway.
4.2. Geiranger Fjord
Vịnh hẹp Geiranger đã được công nhận là một trong những vùng vịnh đẹp nhất của thế giới và được công nhận là di sản thế giới bởi UNESCO vào năm 2005. Với vẻ đẹp được cả thế giới công nhận, nơi đây đã trở thành “thánh địa” được nhiều họa sĩ khắc họa.
Con vịnh có vẻ đẹp nhất trên thế giới mà bạn có thể chiêm ngưỡng khi đi du lịch Na Uy tự túc.
Đặt chân đến nơi này, bạn sẽ được ngắm nhìn vẻ đẹp hùng vĩ của những vách núi sừng sững đan xen là những thác nước trắng xóa. Tại đây còn có ngôi làng Geiranger với những mái nhà đỏ trầm thấp thoáng trong khung cảnh thiên nhiên kỳ ảo khiến ai cũng phải xuýt xoa. Ngoài vịnh Geiranger, bạn còn có thể tham quan các vịnh sau khi trải nghiệm du lịch Na Uy tự túc: Vịnh Nord, vịnh Lyse, vịnh Sognefjord.
4.3. Quần đảo Lofoten
You're an adventure enthusiast, drawn to exploring untouched lands, then you mustn't miss an adventure to the Lofoten Islands when traveling independently in Norway. Here, you'll marvel at coral reefs, and the distinctive fauna of this region: seabirds, sea eagles, and more. Not stopping there, you can kayak amidst majestic mountains or enjoy a cup of hot tea in the chilly mountain weather.
The Northern Lights in Norway resemble a dancing silk ribbon in the sky.
One unique aspect of the archipelago is that you can fully experience the beauty of the Northern Lights right here when traveling independently in Norway. Although temperatures in the region drop significantly towards the end of the year, many tourists still confidently ride the waves under the shimmering glow of the Northern Lights in the sky.
4.4. City of Bergen
The city of Bergen is renowned for its array of architectural landmarks steeped in historical significance, recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites: Bergenhus Fortress, Saint Mary's Church, Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, Rosenkrantz Tower, and more.
These houses embellish the beauty of Norway.
Furthermore, the scenery in this city will etch itself into your memory when traveling independently in Norway due to its incredibly unique landscapes. Surrounded by mountains, adorned with colorful houses, Bergen stands out amidst the somber hues of the Nordic region. It's like a beacon illuminating the entire sky in this area. Thus, you'll be awe-struck when visiting this land for the first time during your journey of traveling independently in Norway.
4.5. City of Tromsø
If you're fond of witnessing the beauty of the Northern Lights resembling a silky ribbon across the sky with its mystical green hue, then quickly plan a trip to the city of Tromsø during your independent travel in Norway. The period from September to March of the following year is the ideal time to admire the Northern Lights.
Another region of Norway also boasts stunning Northern Lights.
During this time, the number of tourists visiting the city to witness the Northern Lights and the landscape increases significantly. Therefore, you need to plan and book accommodations early, around 3-4 months in advance, to get the most mesmerizing views when visiting here during your journey of independent travel in Norway.
5. Where to stay when traveling independently in Norway?
If you want to have plenty of time to explore Norway at night and seek hotels close to the city centers, then quickly bookmark these hotels!
♦ Grand Hotel Oslo: This hotel boasts classical architecture, warm hues of wood, and shimmering golden lights. Despite being a 5-star establishment in the heart of the city, the rates are reasonable, starting from 2487 KR per night (approximately 243 USD).
♦ Citybox Oslo: Situated in the central area near Akershus Fortress and the opera house, this hotel offers full amenities with a touch of luxury. What's special is its mid-range pricing starting from 995 KR per night (about 98 USD).
♦ Thon Hotel Lofoten: With breathtaking views overlooking the harbor and surrounding mountains, this hotel offers top-notch 4-star service starting from 1617 KR per night (around 158 USD).
♦ P – Hotels Brattøra: This hotel is conveniently located next to Trondheim station, making it easy for you to travel to other destinations. Moreover, the price at this hotel is relatively affordable, starting from 826 KR per night (approximately 81 USD).
6. What to Eat When Experiencing Independent Travel in Norway?
Independent travel in Norway not only attracts tourists with its diverse and magnificent natural landscapes but also its rich culinary scene. If you're unsure what dishes to try, consider these delicacies:
- Lutefisk (dried cod soaked in vinegar and chili).
- Rakfisk (fermented trout served with smoked meat, mustard).
- Farikal (mutton stew).
- Bacalao (dish consisting of cod, tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, and onions).
- Svele (a popular cake in coastal areas of Norway).
- Various types of cheese.
7. Essential Tips for Traveling to Norway?
7.1. Personal Items
You should prepare all necessary personal items: toothbrush, face towel, shampoo/conditioner, toothpaste. If you forget even one item, you'll have to spend a considerable amount to buy it in Norway as these items are quite expensive there. Additionally, it's advisable to bring a universal plug adapter for convenient use since European devices have a different design from those in Vietnam.
7.2. Money Exchange
If you intend to exchange cash, consider carrying less than 5,000 USD as anything above will require customs declaration. Instead of carrying too much cash, you can use credit cards for convenience.
7.3. Understand the Local Lifestyle
If you want to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, making acquaintances with the locals is as easy as a handshake or a smile. This is because Norwegians are very friendly and sociable, allowing you to gain further insight into their way of life through various activities.
With these tips for your self-guided trip to Norway, you can explore its hidden beauty with confidence. For the most thrilling itinerary of the year, quickly contact Mytour for expert guidance!
