Things To Do
in Gjøvik
Gjøvik sits on the southern shore of Lake Mjøsa in Innlandet, Norway, and blends lakeside charm with green hills. The town offers a compact, walkable center with shops, cafés, and cultural venues set against a scenic lake backdrop. Outdoor recreation is easy here, from lakeside strolls to nearby forest trails and winter sports.
Gjøvik serves as a friendly, conveniently located base for exploring central Norway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Gjøvik's modern train station, where the crisp Norwegian air greets you. After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful surroundings to get a feel for the town. Visit a local café for a hearty breakfast featuring traditional Norwegian foods.
Explore the local shops and boutiques that line the town center, showcasing local art and handicrafts. Stop by the Gjøvik Glassverk for a fascinating tour of this historic glass factory. Take some time to sample the local cuisine for lunch at a popular eatery, perhaps trying traditional fish dishes.
As the sun sets, head to the beautiful Lake Mjøsa for a serene experience. Dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying fresh ingredients sourced from the region. Wrap up your evening with a peaceful walk along the shore, absorbing the tranquility of the surroundings.
Start your day with a boat tour on Lake Mjøsa, one of Norway's largest lakes. The morning light casts beautiful reflections on the water as you take in the scenic views of mountains and forests surrounding the lake. Enjoy a light breakfast onboard while soaking in the fresh, crisp air.
After returning, visit the Mjøsa Museum to learn about the region's rich history and cultural significance. Explore the beautiful surrounding grounds and discover charming pathways that lead to panoramic viewpoints. Enjoy lunch at the museum café, sampling local delicacies before heading back to the town center.
Attend a local cultural event or concert at Gjøvik Kultursenter to immerse yourself in the vibrant local arts scene. After the show, join locals at a nearby pub or bar for a relaxed evening filled with good conversations and drinks. Top off your night with a traditional dessert before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $6-9 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Transit ticket (local bus) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lake and mountain scenery
- Safe, clean, and well-organized destination
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to nature
- Excellent public transport links to Oslo and other regions
- Limited nightlife and shopping compared to larger cities
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow and ice
- Small-town pace may feel quiet for some travelers
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hvor ligger [sted]?" - Where is [place]?
- "Hvor mye koster dette?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kan jeg få menyen?" - Can I have the menu?
- "Toalett" - Toilet
- "Regningen, takk" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Gjøvik
Visit one of these nice places.
Long lakeside walkway with reflections of the water and pine silhouettes, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Panoramic city and lake views from the elevated hillside near the town center.
Classic church architecture with surrounding townscape and distant lake views.
Old wooden docks and boats framed by the fading light over Mjøsa.
Food in Gjøvik
Gjøvik Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or lightly smoked trout served with potatoes, dill, and a squeeze of lemon.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked elk meat with potatoes, carrots, and local herbs.
Traditional crisp flatbread paired with goat’s brown cheese and berries.
Norwegian meatballs served with mashed or boiled potatoes and lingonberries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls by the lake offering fresh fish, berries, bread, and local crafts.
Weekly market featuring regional produce, dairy, and small-batch products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a firm handshake and eye contact; use first names after introductions.
Maintain a calm tone in public spaces; avoid loud conversations in cafés and buses.
Dress modestly and follow posted rules when visiting churches or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Gjøvik
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Norway; if service is exceptional, rounding up or adding 5-10% is appreciated but not expected.
Card payments (Visa, Mastercard) and contactless are widely accepted; cash use is decreasing; mobile payments like Vipps are common in shops and eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild to warm temperatures; many outdoor activities are in full swing; expect occasional showers and vibrant lake life.
Colorful foliage around the lake, cooler mornings and evenings, and more frequent rain; great for photography and brisk walks.
Cold temperatures with regular snowfall; ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and crisp, clear lake views; days are shorter.
Warming temperatures and blooming scenery; variable weather with periods of sun and rain; good for hikes and lakeside strolls.
Gjøvik at Night
Hiking in Gjøvik
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rewarding hike with panoramic views over Mjøsa and the town; moderate difficulty.
Gentle shoreline trail suitable for all ages, with scenic lake views and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Gjøvik by plane.
Main international gateway; about 2-3 hours from Gjøvik by train or car, with frequent connections to major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with increasing diversity from European, Asian, and African communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely enjoyed in winter with well-groomed trails around the region.
Local clubs and community fields provide seasonal play.
Popular indoor sport with local teams and matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gjøvik.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetable dishes, fish-free options, and seasonal vegetables; ask for fish-free sauces; farm-to-table spots provide egg and dairy options; you can substitute meat dishes with potatoes, mushrooms, and legumes.