15 Reasons to Visit the World's Happiest Country

By Jess McHugh
March 20, 2017
Credit: Ladiras/Getty Images
If a lingering winter is giving you some seasonal blues, try visiting the land of happiness: Norway.

The northern European country landed at the top of the World Happiness Index, a list of the happiest countries in the world as ranked by research scientists.

The economists polled thousands of people using a combination of metrics, including average GDP and feelings of freedom and security, to rank the countries.

Norway has something to offer to travelers of all kinds. From the vibrant contemporary art and theater scene of Oslo to the coziness of remote fishing villages, Norway contains a spectrum of attractions.

Many tourists flock to Norway for an unobstructed view of natural phenomenon such as the northern lights and the midnight sun, and one of the best places to glimpse the Aurora Borealis is the Lofoten Islands, in northwestern Norway.

Stunning natural beauty abounds throughout the country, including the Geiranger and Hardanger fjords, as well as the Preikestolen, a 2,000-foot rock face.

With airfares expected to drop to clearance levels, there’s never been a better time to visit Norway.
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Oslo

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The capital city of Oslo offers cutting edge architecture and daring contemporary art.

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Lofoten Islands

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The Lofoten Islands attract visitors for their fishing and views of such natural phenomenon as the northern lights and the midnight sun.

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Oslo Opera House

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The Oslo Opera House was designed to accommodate plenty of roof visitors — perfect for a view of the water.

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Bodo

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Bird watch in Bodo, a city with the densest population of white-tailed sea eagles in the world, according to Visit Norway.

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Trollstigen

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Trollstigen is perfect for nature trekking and striking panoramic views.

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Preikestolen

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Preikestolen, also known as "the pulpit rock," stands nearly 2,000 feet tall.

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Arctic Cathedral

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The Arctic Cathedral is located in Tromso, northern Norway.

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Port Bergen

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Port Bergen is one of the most popular stops for Arctic cruises.

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Northern Lights

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Travelers flock to Norway for its spectacular views of the natural phenomenon known as Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights.

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Stavanger

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Explore the medieval history of this 12th century city.

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Geiranger Fjord

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The Geiranger fjord is protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

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Flam

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No trip to Norway is complete without a visit to some of its cozy fishing villages, such as Flam.

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Hamnoy Harbor

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Hamnoy Harbor welcomes visitors to the Lofoten Islands.

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Hardangerfjorden

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Hardangerfjorden is the second largest fjord in Norway.

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Kilden Performing Arts Centre

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The striking contemporary architecture of the Kilden Performing Arts Centre in Kristiansand welcomes visitors to operas and a diverse array of concerts.

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By Jess McHugh