Things To Do
in Hamar
Hamar is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Mjøsa in Norway. The town is known for its charming and well-preserved wooden buildings, many of which date back to the 19th century. Hamar is also home to the impressive Hedmark Museum, showcasing the region's history and culture.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and biking in the beautiful surrounding countryside.
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
- "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Hedmark Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Explore the fascinating exhibits and enjoy the beautiful park surrounding the museum.
Stroll through the city center and enjoy local cafes and shops. Don't miss the beautiful cathedral ruins, a testament to Hamar's historical significance.
Have dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Norwegian cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakefront as the sun sets.
Rent a bike and ride along Lake Mjøsa. The scenic trails offer stunning views of the landscape and a refreshing start to the day.
Stop for a picnic at a designated area by the lake. Afterward, consider taking a short hike to enjoy more of the natural beauty.
Return to town and dine at a cozy eatery. Try some fresh fish dishes while appreciating the serene lake views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with lakes and forests.
- Rich cultural history and heritage, including museums and historical sites.
- A peaceful and quiet environment, ideal for relaxation.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Cold winters with heavy snowfall, which can be challenging for some.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities in Norway.
- Higher cost of living, particularly for housing.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Public transportation may not be as frequent or extensive as in urban areas.
Best Activities in Hamar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy boating, fishing, or sightseeing along Norway's largest lake.
Visit the site of the 1994 Winter Olympics, offering cultural and sports activities.
Explore the open-air museum and the beautiful surroundings for hiking or picnics.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hamar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hamar
Visit one of these nice places.
The cathedral offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and Lake Mjøsa.
This venue provides a unique architectural backdrop for photos, especially during sunset.
The stadium offers a great vantage point for capturing the scenic surroundings.
Food in Hamar
Hamar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Norwegian fermented fish dish, typically trout, served with flatbread, potatoes, sour cream, and onions. Must-try at Mathallen Hamar or local restaurants like Hygge Kaffebar.
Must-Try!
A festive dish made of lamb ribs that have been salted and dried, traditionally served with puréed swede and potatoes. Found at Kjellergården Restaurant or Gummisjappa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hamar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular food market offering a variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Also a great spot to try traditional Norwegian dishes like rakfisk and fårikål.
Open-air market featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally produced honey, jams, and preserves. Perfect for experiencing the flavors of the region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hamar, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially during conversations or interactions.
Norwegians in general highly value punctuality, so it is important to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments in Hamar.
It is customary in Norway, including in Hamar, to remove your shoes when entering someone's home to maintain cleanliness and show respect for their living space.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hamar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hamar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hamar, Norway, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some restaurants or for exceptional service, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Hamar, Norway, and cash is also commonly used. It's important to note that contactless payment methods are prevalent, and it's rare to encounter establishments that do not accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hamar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful time to visit Hamar. The temperature starts to warm up, and you can enjoy blossoming flowers and longer daylight hours. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the countryside.
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Hamar. The weather is warm and pleasant, and the city comes alive with festivals and events. It's an ideal time for water sports on Lake Mjøsa and visiting outdoor attractions.
Autumn, from September to November, brings beautiful foliage to Hamar. The temperature starts to cool down, and you'll experience the stunning colors of fall. It's a great time for scenic drives and enjoying the harvest festivals.
Winter, from December to February, transforms Hamar into a winter wonderland. You can experience traditional Norwegian winter activities like skiing, ice skating, and even ice fishing on Lake Mjøsa. The city also hosts Christmas markets and other festive events during this season.
Hamar at Night
Hiking in Hamar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area just outside Hamar, featuring marked trails and beautiful views over Mjøsa Lake.
Located a short drive from Hamar, Rudskogen offers varied terrain and scenic trails suitable for hiking and nature walks.
A hiking trail that follows the edge of Mjøsa, providing picturesque views and access to several picnic spots.
This area features a network of trails that cater to different skill levels, with options for longer or shorter hikes.
A bit further from Hamar, Løtenåsen offers serene forest trails and is ideal for those seeking more solitude in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hamar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hamar by plane.
The main international airport serving Oslo and the surrounding region, located approximately 104 km south of Hamar.
An international airport located around 130 km south of Hamar, serving the city of Sandefjord and the wider region.
Located about 462 km west of Hamar, this airport serves the city of Ålesund and offers international flights.
Bergen's main airport located approximately 450 km west of Hamar, serves both domestic and international flights.
Located about 500 km north of Hamar, this airport facilitates international air traffic to and from Trondheim.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Hamar, primarily descendants of the indigenous Norse people.
Includes individuals and families from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Hamar.
Indigenous people of Norway, recognized for their unique cultural heritage and connection to the north.
A growing demographic in Hamar due to recent immigration waves, particularly in the context of seeking asylum.
An immigrant group formed primarily from refugees and asylum seekers, adding to Hamar's multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Hamar
Discover the essence of Hamar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Hamar, with local clubs and a strong following.
A popular winter sport in Hamar, featuring amateur leagues and a passionate fan base.
An active sport in the region, with competitive teams in both men's and women's leagues.
Track and field events are popular, with local clubs participating in regional competitions.
Cross-country skiing and ski jumping are commonly practiced sports during the winter months.
Growing in popularity, with clubs fostering youth participation and local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hamar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Hamar offer vegetarian and vegan options, with a focus on fresh produce and innovative plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find a range of gluten-free dishes at restaurants like Bar & Bowling and Skafferiet, ensuring a variety of dining choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hamar with these cultural adventures.
