Norway Remapped
If you’re planning a trip to Norway, before you travel, it’s important to be aware of some recent changes that have been made to Norway’s counties. As of January 2020, the country’s 19 counties have now been replaced by 11. Here’s everything you need to know about the recent changes to the Norwegian map.
Why Were The Changes Implemented?
The changes were implemented by the Norwegian government in an effort to improve the ability of different municipalities and regions within the country to coordinate. According to a government statement: “Larger and more functional county municipalities will strengthen local democracy and growth opportunities. It lays the foundation for better cooperation with other regional players and strengthened social development.”
What Are The Key Changes?
While three counties remain unchanged, the rest of Norway’s counties have been reorganized. Here’s a summary of some of the key changes:
- Agder: Previously Aust-Agder and Vest Agder
- Viken: Previously Buskerud, Akershus and Østfold
- Troms og Finnmark: Previously Finnmark and Troms
- Vestland: Previously Hordaland and Sogn og Fjordane
- Trøndelag: Previously Nord-Trøndelag and Sør-Trøndelag
- Innlandet: Previously Oppland and Hedmark
- Vestfold og Telemark: Previously Telemark and Vestfold
Photo: Terje Rakke / Nordic Life AS - Visitnorway.com
Travel in Norway
Norway is a vast country so, if you’re not familiar with the geography or how these changes might impact your travels, you can find a helpful guide with our Fjord Tours maps here. These days there are also several great online resources you can use to orient yourself in Norway, you can find them listed in this article.
A few regions of the country were not impacted by the reorganization. Most visitors will usually want to take a trip to Oslo at some point during their travels through Norway. Oslo will remain unchanged in terms of names and borders. We offer many different options for ways to explore Oslo. Oslo has a lot of fun and exciting activities, get an overview of all the great things you can do in our capital here.
Nordland, Rogaland, and Møre og Romsdal will also remain unchanged. These regions have plenty of spectacular places to visit. A highlight on our list is Bodø, the largest city and the capital of Nordland. A visit between early June and early July will give you a chance to catch the Midnight Sun.
If you plan on visiting Rogaland, the most popular attraction is a hike to the Pulpit Rock. This hike will give you an opportunity to take in some one-of-a-kind, and awe-inspiring views. Visiting Møre og Romsdal? Ålesund is the largest city in the region and is known for its incredible cultural experiences.
Photo: Terje Rakke / Nordic Life AS - Visitnorway.com
Tours in Norway
Fjord Tours offers loads of tours and activities all over the country:
Note that the recent reorganization will most likely have no affect on your travel plans, but if you are curious to know more, or need reassurance about the recent reorganization, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team! We’ll be able to share the relevant information you need to know for your specific trip!