Møre og Romsdal - Travel destination image

About Møre og Romsdal

Møre og Romsdal, a breathtaking county on Norway's western coast, is a paradise for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes and authentic Nordic culture. It's famed for the iconic Geirangerfjord and Trollstigen mountain road, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, offering some of the world's most spectacular scenic drives and fjord views. The region is the heart of Norway's maritime heritage, with historic towns like Ålesund, renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture rebuilt after a 1904 fire, and Molde, the 'City of Roses' with its famous jazz festival. Adventure seekers can hike the legendary Troll's Path, explore the Atlantic Road—an engineering marvel winding over islands and skerries—or kayak in serene fjords. The Sunnmøre Alps provide world-class hiking and skiing, while the coastal islands like Runde are birdwatcher havens. Møre og Romsdal blends raw natural beauty, from towering peaks to deep blue fjords, with rich traditions in fishing, boat building, and local festivals, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Travel Tips for Møre og Romsdal

Getting Around

Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, especially to explore remote fjords and mountains. Public buses and express boats connect coastal towns and islands; check 'Fram' and 'Kystekspressen' for schedules. Local ferries are essential for island hopping. Trains are limited (the Rauma Line from Åndalsnes to Dombås is scenic). Taxis and rideshares (like Bolt) are available in towns. Popular apps include 'Entur' for public transport planning and 'Yr' for weather.

Best Time To Visit

June to August for mild weather (10-20°C), midnight sun, and open attractions like Trollstigen; ideal for hiking, fjord cruises, and festivals. September offers autumn colors and fewer crowds. Winter (December-March) is for skiing, Northern Lights viewing inland, and experiencing cozy coastal towns, though some roads close.

Local Customs

Norwegians value punctuality, personal space, and quietness. Dress practically for the weather; formal attire is rarely needed. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for excellent service (round up the bill or 5-10%). Remove shoes when entering homes. Respect 'friluftsliv' (outdoor life) by following the Norwegian Mountain Code and leaving no trace. In restaurants, it's common to pay individually. Learning a few Norwegian phrases like 'takk' (thank you) is polite.

Safety Information

Møre og Romsdal is very safe with low crime rates. Exercise standard precautions against petty theft in tourist areas. The main risks are natural: be extremely cautious on mountain roads like Trollstigen (check seasonal closures), heed weather warnings for fjord tours, and avoid unstable edges near cliffs. Driving requires attention due to narrow, winding roads and tunnels. No specific areas to avoid. Scams are rare, but be wary of unofficial tour operators. Emergency services are highly responsive.

Health Information

Medical care in Møre og Romsdal is of high standard. Major hospitals include Ålesund Hospital and Molde Hospital, with smaller clinics in towns. No specific vaccinations are required for travel. Tap water is safe to drink. Common health concerns relate to outdoor activities: ensure proper gear for hiking, beware of slippery rocks near waterfalls, and dress for rapidly changing weather to avoid hypothermia. Tick-borne diseases (like Lyme) exist in forested areas. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or travel insurance is recommended for EU/EEA citizens. Pharmacies ('Apotek') are widely available.

Languages Spoken

Norwegian (Bokmål and Nynorsk)English

Quick Facts

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK)
kr

Timezone

Europe/Oslo +01:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+47

Electricity

Type C, F; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

270,000

Area

15101 km²

Government

County Municipality (Fylkeskommune)