Located on Lake Mjøsa, this Norwegian town has a glass-covered medieval cathedral, the Viking Ship Olympic arena, and the world's oldest paddle steamer still running regular trips.
In Hamar, you can walk through a glass-covered medieval cathedral, watch speed skating competitions at the Viking Ship arena, or sail Lake Mjøsa on the Skibladner, the world's oldest paddle steamer still in regular operation. The town sits on Norway's largest lake, where you can swim at Koigen beach or buy fresh produce from local farmers at the market square.
Exploring Lake Mjøsa
Lake Mjøsa shapes daily life in Hamar year-round. You can board the Skibladner paddle steamer, which has carried passengers across the lake since 1856. In summer, cool off at Koigen beach area near the city center, where you'll find a diving tower and swimming areas. From the harbor, you can rent kayaks or join RIB boat tours across the lake.
Museums and Historical Sites
At the Hedmark Museum in Domkirkeodden, a massive glass structure protects the 12th-century cathedral ruins. Tour guides perform daily Gregorian chants within the medieval walls. At the Norwegian Railway Museum, you can ride the Tertittoget train through the railway park and climb aboard vintage locomotives while learning about Norway's rail development.
Winter Sports and Olympic Legacy
The Vikingskipet Olympic Hall, with its distinctive ship-shaped design, hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics speed skating events. Today, you can watch international speed skating competitions and other indoor sports here. During winter, cross-country ski trails crisscross the Hedmarksvidda plateau, and at Budor, you'll find Norway's largest sledding center.
City Center Life
Two main squares, Stortorget and Østre Torg, form Hamar's pedestrian zone. Visit the farmer's market at Stortorget to buy local produce, or spend time at the library and cinema. In nearby Brumunddal, the 86-meter Wood Hotel rises above Lake Mjøsa - it's built entirely from wood and has rooms with lake views.
Family Activities
At Snilsberg Familiepark in Ringsaker, children can feed and pet lambs, goats, ponies, and peacocks. Walk the nature trail for views of Lake Mjøsa and the surrounding countryside. The park includes a climbing course, and back in Hamar, instructors at Koigen beach organize water activities throughout summer.
