Today’s residents of the New World now head to Norway to discover a prosperous, contented and beautiful country. Rick Steves writes European guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public TV and radio.

Rick Steves has never been shy about praising his favorite European destinations. However, his least favorite spots are a little harder to pin down.

Rick Steves' Europe: A Symphonic Journey. ... STEVES: Now we travel north to Norway, the land of my grandparents. Until the 19th century, Norway was under the thumb of Sweden and Denmark.

(Rick Steves/ Rick Steves’ Europe) Share this story “Rugged ... “Rugged” is putting it mildly when it comes to 80% of Norway. Historically, it was a challenge to live here.

In Norway, mid-range hotel rooms start at around €110 ($124.08 as of May 2025) per night, food costs at €22 ($24.82) per day, and paid activities at €30 ($33.84).

Among Europe's many cherished traditions, Steves favors Norway, France, and England for their distinctive holiday celebrations. Read more: The Car Accessory Rick Steves Recommends Packing On A ...

Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey, taped last September with conductor John Morris Russell’s Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, ... Great Britain, Italy, Norway, France and the United States.