Lillehammer

Lillehammer is one of Norway's most well-known year-round tourist destinations, situated above Lake Mjsa at the south end of the Gudbrandsdal valley. Malhaugen Park, an open-air museum with more than 100 historic buildings, including 18th-century farmhouses, workshops, and a stave church, is a must-see in the summer.

Peer Gynt's Cottage is another noteworthy site. It is supposed to have been the residence of the prototype of Ibsen's famous hero, dating from the early 1700s. Lillehammer, on the other hand, shines brightest when the snow falls. Skating, curling, sleigh rides, more than 480 kilometers of Nordic ski paths, as well as alpine ski resorts, are just a few of the winter sports available in the city, which hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics.

In Lillehammer, temperatures will almost certainly be below freezing mid-November to mid-March, and snow will almost certainly fall. Summer days can reach temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F) or even higher, however May through September is the wettest month of the year. Lillehammer's core district is ultra-compact, despite its prominence as a sporting capital. The majority of businesses and central attractions are on or near Storgata, which is only a few minutes' walk from the railway station and bus terminal.

Location: Lillehammer, Norway

Highlights: Maihaugen outdoor museum, Skiing

Best time to visit: year-round