Hamar - Discovering Norway

Travelling to Hamar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hamar, a pretty good destination in Norway (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hamar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hamar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Norway, here's everything to know about Hamar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hamar

Hamar is a city in eastern Norway located on the eastern shore of Lake Mjøsa, the largest lake in Norway. It is the largest city in Innlandet county and has a population of around 32,000 people. Hamar is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. The city is also known for its historic landmarks, including the Domkirkeodden open-air museum and the Hamar Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. Additionally, Hamar is home to a thriving cultural scene, with several museums, galleries, and performance venues.

What to visit in Hamar

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Hamar (Norway): 1. Hamar Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral located in the city center of Hamar. Tourists can admire its iconic architecture and learn more about the history of the city.
2. Mjøsa: The largest lake in Norway, Mjøsa offers a variety of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. Tourists can also visit the small islands in the lake, including Helgøya and Toten.
3. Ankerskogen Swimming Pool: This indoor water park features a wave pool, diving boards, and water slides. It's a fun place for families with kids or for anyone who is looking for a relaxing day.
4. Kirsten Flagstad Museum: The house where Kirsten Flagstad, the renowned Norwegian opera singer, grew up is now a museum. Visitors can see exhibits and artifacts about her life and career.
5. Vikingskipet Olympic Arena: Built for the 1994 Winter Olympics, this arena is used for ice skating and other events. Visitors can skate or watch a game or event.
6. Cultural History Museum: This museum showcases the cultural history of Hedmark County and includes exhibits on regional folk traditions, 19th century farm life, and local history.
7. Domkirkeodden: This open-air museum showcases the ruins of a 13th-century cathedral, as well as a medieval church and village. Visitors can learn about the history of the area and experience life in a medieval village.
8. Hamar Olympic Stadium: Built for the 1994 Winter Olympics, this stadium is used for various sports and events. It's also a popular spot for jogging and other outdoor activities.
9. Hedmarksmuseet: This museum features exhibitions on the cultural and natural history of the Hedmark region. Visitors can explore the history of local industries, the natural environment, and traditional crafts and customs.
10. Hamar Sagbladfabrikk Museum: This sawmill museum provides an in-depth look at the history of timber manufacturing. Visitors can learn about the process of producing sawn timber and see antique sawmill machinery in action.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Norway, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hamar.

When to go on holiday to Hamar

The best time to visit Hamar is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild and there are long daylight hours. During this time you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating on Mjøsa lake. Additionally, the city hosts several events and festivals such as the Viking Festival and Festspillene i Hamar which showcase the local culture and traditions. However, if you prefer a quieter and more serene experience, you can also consider visiting Hamar during the winter months for the opportunity to ski and snowboard in the nearby mountains.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hamar

There are several ways to get to Hamar, Norway depending on your starting point. Here are some options: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Hamar is Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), located about 1 hour and 20 minutes away by car or train.
2. By train: From Oslo Gardermoen Airport, you can take a train to Hamar, which takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Trains depart hourly throughout the day.
3. By car: Hamar is located about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Oslo by car. You can rent a car at the airport or take a taxi.
4. By bus: There are also direct bus services from Oslo to Hamar, which take around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Once you arrive in Hamar, you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Norwegian Railway Museum, the Hamar Olympic Hall, and the Hedmark Museum.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hamar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hamar

Here are some typical foods of Hamar in Norway with a brief description of each: 1. Rømmegrøt - a traditional Norwegian porridge made from sour cream, flour, and butter, often served with sugar, cinnamon, and cured meat.
2. Fiskeboller - Fish balls made from minced fish, egg, milk, and breadcrumbs, often served in a creamy white sauce.
3. Elk meat - Norway is known for its delicious elk meat, which is often served as a steak or in a stew with potatoes and vegetables.
4. Lefse - a soft and slightly sweet flatbread made from flour, milk, sugar, and butter, often served with butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
5. Brown cheese - also known as "brunost," this cheese is made by caramelizing milk and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It's often served with bread or crackers.
6. Raspberries - Hamar is known for its fresh and delicious raspberries, which can be found in local markets, restaurants, and cafes.
7. Krumkake - a crispy Norwegian waffle cookie made from cream, sugar, and flour, often filled with whipped cream or jam.
8. Rakfisk - a fermented fish dish that's typically made from trout or char, often served with sour cream, onion, and potatoes.
9. Smoked salmon - Norway is famous for its smoked salmon, which is often served as an appetizer or on a sandwich.
10. Multekrem - a Norwegian dessert made from cloudberries, whipped cream, and sugar, often served with waffles or cake.
You can find general info about typical foods in Norway here.

Is Hamar an expensive destination for tourists?

Hamar is generally considered to be an expensive destination for tourists, particularly when compared to other cities in Norway. The cost of accommodations, meals, and activities can be quite high. However, with some research and planning, it is possible to find affordable options for accommodations, dining, and entertainment. It's also worth noting that the quality of services and amenities in Hamar is generally high, which may justify the higher prices.

Where to find accomodation in Hamar

Hamar, Norway is a relatively small city, so you can find accommodations in different areas depending on your preferences. If you want to be close to the city center and the main attractions like the Hamar Cathedral, the Hedmark Museum, and the Vikingskipet arena, it's best to look for accommodations in the downtown area. Here you will find hotels and apartments within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and cultural institutions.
For those who prefer a quieter atmosphere and enjoy outdoor activities, it's best to look for accommodation near Lake Mjøsa or the surrounding forests. The waterfront areas around Lake Mjøsa offer beautiful views and opportunities for swimming, kayaking, or fishing, while the forests provide great spots for hiking, cycling, or skiing in the winter.
Another popular option is to stay in one of the many cabins or chalets located around Hamar, especially if you're traveling with family or a group of friends. These accommodations offer privacy and a cozy atmosphere, as well as easy access to the surrounding nature.
You can check hotel prices at Hamar here:
Booking.com

Is Hamar a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hamar is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any city, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, but overall crime rates in Hamar are low. The Norwegian society is known for being safe, peaceful, and welcoming towards visitors. You can feel safe exploring the main tourist attractions, dining at local restaurants, and walking around the city.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Norway here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hamar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hamar the most?

Hamar is a great destination for a variety of travelers. Couples can enjoy romantic walks around Lake Mjøsa, cozy restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Hamar Cathedral. Young people and families can enjoy the many outdoor activities available in the area, such as hiking, biking, and watersports on Lake Mjøsa. The Mjøsa Tower, an observation tower with a 360-degree view of the area, is also a popular attraction for all ages. Additionally, Hamar has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs catering to young adults. Overall, Hamar offers something for everyone and is an excellent destination for a memorable vacation.

How to get around Hamar

The easiest ways to get around Hamar are by walking, cycling, bus or car. Hamar has a good public transportation system consisting of local buses that connect the city center with the surrounding areas. Cycling is also a popular and convenient option as there are many bike paths in and around the city. If you prefer to drive, car rentals and taxis are available as well.

What to see around Hamar

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Hamar: 1. Lillehammer: This charming town is known for its winter sports, historical sites, and stunning scenery. You can visit the Olympic Park, Maihaugen Museum, and the Lillehammer Art Museum.
2. Gjøvik: This town is situated on Lake Mjøsa and offers a beautiful waterfront, scenic hiking trails, and cultural attractions like the Gjovik Glassworks and the Gjovik Farm Museum.
3. Eidsvoll: This town is home to the Eidsvoll Manor House, where the Norwegian constitution was signed in 1814. It is a well-preserved historical site with guided tours available.
4. Hadeland Glassverk: This is Norway's oldest industrial company, known for its world-class glass art and glassblowing demonstrations. You can also enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the beautiful surroundings.
5. Mjøstårnet: This is Norway's tallest building, located in Brumunddal. You can take the elevator to the top and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Mjøsa and the surrounding areas.
For every travel information about Norway you can click here.

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