Travel guide to Gjøvik

Welcome to the Travel guide to Gjøvik, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Norway. Far from the bustling crowds of Oslo, this quaint town is a true treasure trove of natural beauty, fascinating culture, and rich history.

From its stunning lakeside views to its charming cobblestone streets, Gjøvik has something for everyone. But what really sets this town apart are its hidden gems – those lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path attractions that are just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious local, this comprehensive Travel guide to Gjøvik will take you on a journey through Gjøvik’s best kept secrets.

From hidden hiking trails to cozy cafes, historic landmarks to unique boutiques, you’ll uncover all the hidden gems that make Gjøvik such a special place. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore – let’s discover the magic of this travel guide to Gjøvik together!

Getting to Gjøvik

To plan your trip with ease, follow this Travel guide to Gjøvik .

By Car

Travelling to Gjøvik? Automobile is the way to go! It’s connected to national highways so it’ll be a piece of cake.

Take the E6 road and you’ll reach Exit number 3 Feiringvegen onto RV33 and you’ll be there in 50 minutes.

If you’re coming from Oslo, it’ll take two hours for 139 km and costs NOK300–432 (around €26 including €5.49 of motorway tolls). But, bear in mind, traffic jams can increase that time.

Pro Tip: Check current traffic info before setting off. That way, your journey will be hassle-free!

By Public Transport

Using Mass Transit Hub for Gjøvik

Mass transit makes it easy to get to Gjøvik. It also saves you money. Here are the options:

• Train: Take the 120-minute train from Oslo S Trelastgata to Gjøvik skysstasjon. Estimated price NOK170–260 Hourly. Book on Norwegian Railways
• Bus: No bus service between Oslo and Gjøvik. You can take the train from Oslo to Moelv stasjon and from there in Plattform A · Buss med Innlandstrafikk 100 to Gjøvik
• Taxi: If you need a taxi in or around Gjøvik, just call 04 711. Gjøvik’s main taxi stand is also located by the old train station. Vacant taxis are parked just outside the tourist office entrance (next to bus stop 1).

Plus, there are private shuttle services that have pre-booking or on-demand options.
An Efficient Way of Reaching Gjøvik

Using public transit to Gjøvik? Check out our cyberspace portal for excellent connections and reliable schedules. Book tickets ahead to avoid long queues.

If you’re flying, be ready for an adventure! Gjøvik is home to Skibladner – the world’s oldest paddle steamer still in service..

By Air

Come to Gjøvik! Reach it via Oslo Airport, 103 km away. Take a train like RE10 to Lillehammer and 1 hr 16 min (6 stops) · Platform 1 to Moelv stasjon. From there in Platform 1 take the bus 100 to Gjøvik to arrive in 21 min (3 stops).

Flights from domestic and international locations are available. Bus services and car rentals are also provided. Taxis are an option, but costly. Take a helicopter tour for a unique, scenic experience. Marvel at the heather-covered hills and emerald peaks! Ready for adventure? Gjøvik awaits – no Starbucks, though!

Where to Stay in Gjøvik

To find the ideal accommodation for your stay in this Travel guide to Gjøvik, consider these three excellent options: Quality Hotel Strand Gjøvik, Honne Hotell & Konferansesenter and Steinvik Camping AS. Each of these establishments offers unique amenities and features that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury or practicality, rest assured that you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Gjøvik.

Quality Hotel Strand Gjøvik

Enjoy wonderful views over Lake Mjøsa at this elegant, centrally situated Gjøvik hotel, which offers comfortable, spacious guest rooms as well as free Wi-Fi and extensive spa facilities.

The bright and airy guest rooms at Quality Hotel Strand Gjøvik are decorated in a colourful, modern style. There is a large spa centre, offering treatments, several pools, a fitness room and a stylish spa bar for an extra cost.

Strand Gjøvik’s central location gives easy access to culture, shopping and entertainment. Only a short walk away is the jetty for the famous old paddle steamer Skibladner, built in the mid 19th century.

Honne Hotell & Konferansesenter

Located in Biri on the shores of Lake Mjøsa, Honne Hotell and Konferansesenter has a sauna and a dining hall overlooking the lake.

The hotel is 20 km north of Gjøvik surrounded by hiking routes and even has a path down to Kremmerodden bay for bathing in the summer.

Bedrooms are simply furnished with a TV and private bathroom, and some have access to the building’s free Wi-Fi.

Honne Hotell also offers a TV lounge and a living room with a fireplace. Breakfast is served daily, and in the evenings a traditional Norwegian dinner buffet is prepared.

Guests can relax in the hotel bar or take a walk in the hotel gardens, which include an arboretum of more than 100 tree species.

Steinvik Camping AS

Steinvik Camping is idyllically located on the sunny side of the fjord, in the middle of the fjord towns of Hamar, Gjøvik and Lillehammer. With 21 cabins with running water, 70 tourist pitches and 70 seasonal pitches. New large playground 2021, floating dock with slide and diving board. A short drive to the city centre. Great hiking opportunities in the immediate vicinity.

If you like outdoor activities, there’s plenty to explore. Visit The Gjøvik Water Sports Centre or Hunnselva River Trail. Take a stroll around Mjøsa lake or explore the nature parks.

For groups or families, rent a vacation home near the famous landmarks. The Norwegian Museum of Hydropower and Industry, Gjøvik Glassworks Museum, and more!

Overall, there’s no shortage of great places to stay in Gjøvik. Luxury hotel rooms or quaint vacation homes near the attractions – it will be an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to taste the unique blend of Norwegian and international flavors!

Local Cuisine in Gjøvik

To explore the local cuisine in Gjøvik with recommended restaurants and vegetarian and vegan options, delve into traditional Norwegian dishes. These sub-sections offer a variety of solutions to indulge in local culinary experiences.

Traditional Norwegian Dishes

Savor Norwegian Gastronomy in Gjøvik!

Indulge in a unique culinary experience with traditional Norwegian dishes. From seafood to meat, Gjøvik’s local cuisine has something for everyone.

Try popular dishes like Fårikål, a stewed mutton with cabbage and black pepper, Lutefisk, dried whitefish soaked in water and lye, and Raspeballer, mashed potatoes and flour dough boiled into dumplings.

Also, check out specialities like Klippfisk, salted and dried cod, Rakfisk, fermented freshwater fish, and Fårikål pizza.

Don’t forget to add the condiments like mustard sauces, lingonberry jam, soured cream, or flatbread to enjoy the full flavor!

Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Head to Gjøvik for an unforgettable gastronomic journey!

Recommended Restaurants

Get ready for a delicious experience in Gjøvik! Here are some of the top picks to savor the local cuisine:

• Fahlstrøm Bar & Grill – Gjøvik: It is the place for good food! Fahlstrøm bar & grill is a gastro bar in the center of Gjøvik, with tasty food in an informal atmosphere
• The inn V-E6: Pleasant cafeteria along the E6 near Biri with a good selection of dinner dishes, sandwiches and cakes.
• Have fun: Something for every taste! Hygge Gjøvik Vinbar is a restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Gjøvik. This is the place for you who want to enjoy a better dinner in town.
• Peppe’s Pizza – Gjøvik: A favorite among children Peppes is located in the center of Gjøvik. Here you can reserve a table in advance if you wish, eat inside or outside.
• Heim Restaurant and Gastropub Gjøvik: Gastro is about food. Our restaurant is founded on the best of raw materials, both food and drink, refined by skilled workers!

Go beyond restaurants! Take a culinary-focused tour of the area. Visit small family-owned farms and food markets. Experience the local history.

Gjøvik has something for everyone. So pack your bags now and book a table. Get ready for an amazing gastronomic adventure! From vegan options to carnivore-friendly dishes, everyone will enjoy the feast!

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

If you’re plant-based in Gjøvik, you’ve got options. Try these:

• Jako Sushi Generous slices of salmon and tuna for the price of about $15 USD.
• Heim Gjøvik for the great selection of beers.
• Salt & Pepper for really good sushi in Gjøvik
• Egon Gjovik for Amazing food!
• Naturally Gjøvik Must have a wide selection of vegetarian / vegan products: frozen products, basic products and vegetarian-friendly health food items.

Fun fact, Gjøvik is the music capital of the Inland region. Gather your own! And if you’re up for a thrill, try outdoor activities here. Vacation and danger? Yes, please!

Gjøvik’s History and Culture

Gjøvik is a town full of rich history and culture. The town can trace its roots back to the Viking Age, and there are several landmarks and museums in the area that celebrate the town’s past. Discover more on this Travel guide to Gjøvik.

The Norwegian Museum of Hydropower and Industry is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s industrial history. The museum showcases the importance of hydropower to the town and the country, and features interactive exhibits that are fun for both adults and children.

Another museum worth checking out is the Gjøvik Glassworks Museum. The museum tells the story of the town’s glassmaking industry, which was a significant part of the town’s economy for many years.In addition to its museums, Gjøvik has several other cultural attractions worth exploring.

The Gjøvik Cultural Centre is a hub for the town’s arts and cultural events, and hosts everything from concerts to theater performances.

The centre also has a gallery showcasing local artists, and is a great place to pick up a souvenir or two.

The town’s Storgata street is another must-visit for anyone interested in culture. This charming street is lined with historic buildings, unique boutiques, and cozy cafes, and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring.

Places to Visit in Gjøvik

Families with children have a lot to look forward to as well, like the climbing park Gjøvik Klatrepark, the knowledge centre Vitensenteret Innlandet, and the water park Totenbadet. Then, go see some world-class art in Peder Balke-Senteret at Kapp.

Gjøvik Centrum

Gjøvik boasts a delightful shopping center adorned with charming, one-of-a-kind boutiques, as well as larger retail chains, all enveloped in a welcoming ambiance. The pedestrian street is adorned with various fabulous establishments, including Gjøvik Sjokolade, where you can indulge in delectable sweet treats and authentic Italian gelato.

The city center is peppered with numerous exceptional dining options, and during the summertime, the city truly comes alive with a plethora of lovely alfresco restaurants. Embrace the spirit of supporting local businesses and shop with all your heart – #handelokalt.

Gjøvik center presents a rich array of shops, restaurants, and services to cater to every individual’s preferences. In this vibrant hub, you can discover an assortment of establishments ranging from longstanding family enterprises to renowned retail chains and innovative startups.

Mjøstråkk

On this page, you find everything you need to plan an adventurous bike ride along Norway’s largest lake, Mjøsa. Divided the Mjøstråkk into 7 sub-sections with the starting point in Minnesund / Eidsvoll and describe the cycle tour around Mjøsa clockwise. 

You can of course choose where you want to start, whether you cycle clockwise or counter-clockwise and whether you want to cycle the entire Mjøstråkk or only parts of the scenic route in the Mjøslandscape. 

Gjøvik Jernbaneparken

The railway park in Gjøvik has been converted into an activity and skate park for the whole family. Construction stage 1, with a skating facility, ball and ice rink, climbing stone and stage for cultural activities, was completed in 2014. With construction stage 2, the activity offer in the park has now been expanded with a junior roller skating rink and a playground with a water fountain. The park received a grant from the Ministry of Culture’s scheme for “Innovative activity arenas” in 2017.

Hadeland Glassworks

Witness the skilled glassblowers at the Glassworks in Hadeland- creating amazing designs from molten glass.

Check out the diverse offerings at the Table – vases, bowls, and sculptures.

Or customize your own glass art souvenir through workshops conducted by professional instructors.

It’s amazing to know that Hadeland Glassworks has been in operation since 1762 – making it one of Norway’s oldest industrial companies.

The factory’s museum displays unique antique glass pieces dating back centuries.

Local legend has it that an apprentice once dropped a smoking pipe at the furnace, sparking the idea for the world-famous ‘pipe vase’.

If heaven is only half as heavenly as Jevnaker Church, Sunday mass may be worth a try!

Gjøvik Olympiske Fjellhall

Gjøvik Olympic Cavern Hall is an ice hockey rink located within a mountain hall in Gjøvik, Norway. With a capacity for 5,500 spectators, the hall also features a 25-meter swimming pool and telecommunications installations.

Skyland Gjøvik

With several years of experience with trampolines, can safely offer you some of the best and safest trampolines on the market. All our trampolines are made with the Nordic climate in mind and can withstand being left outside all year round.

Skyland Gjøvik can offer · Trampolines · Obstacle course · Play area · Interactive games · Airtrack · Ball pit

Best Outdoor Activities in Gjøvik

Gjøvik is located on the shores of Lake Mjøsa, Norway’s largest lake. The lake and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. One of the most popular activities is hiking. Gjøvik has several hidden hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

One of the best trails is the Hunnselva River Trail. The trail follows the river through a beautiful forest, and ends at a picturesque waterfall. Another great hiking trail is the Vindodden Nature Reserve. This trail takes you through a beautiful nature reserve, and offers breathtaking views of the lake.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, in this Travel guide to Gjøvik there are plenty of options. The town is a popular destination for water sports, and offers everything from kayaking to windsurfing.

The Gjøvik Water Sports Centre

The Gjøvik Water Sports Centre is a great place to try your hand at a variety of water sports. The centre offers lessons and rentals for everything from stand-up paddleboarding to wakeboarding.

Gjøvik Klatrepark

In Gjøvik climbing park, you can use your entire body and feel in control, whether you’re young or old. You’ll also have exciting adventures in the trees. Safety is a top priority, and there’s a mandatory safety course before you start climbing to ensure that everything is safe and secure.

Gjøvik climbing park has trails for everyone, whether you like to stay close to the ground or prefer being up high. Are you up for a challenge?

Exploring Gjøvik’s Hidden Trails

Gjøvik is home to several hidden hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

One of the best trails is the Hunnselva River Trail. The trail follows the river through a beautiful forest, and ends at a picturesque waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, and is perfect for families with children.

Another great hiking trail is the Vindodden Nature Reserve. This trail takes you through a beautiful nature reserve, and offers breathtaking views of the lake. The trail is a bit more challenging than the Hunnselva River Trail, but is still manageable for most hikers.

For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Gjøvik Mountain Trail is a must-visit. The trail takes you up to the top of a mountain, and offers spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding area. The trail is quite challenging, and is recommended for experienced hikers only. However, the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Get ready to explore nature’s wonders on this Travel guide to Gjøvik! Don’t forget to bring appropriate gear and essentials such as snacks, water, sunscreen and bug spray for a comfortable trip. As a beginner, my top priority is to not roll down the mountain like a giant snowball!

Skiing and Snowboarding in Gjøvik

The Gjøvik region is perfect for cross-country skiing, with 1,500 kilometers of prepared tracks in all kinds of terrain, from forests to mountains.

Experience the exhilaration of skiing the Norwegian way: With “Kvikklunsj” and “blue extra”

Innlandet has many well-maintained skiing paths that go through stunning landscapes, showcasing the beauty of Norway’s nature. Some of these paths are even lit up, giving you the chance to have exciting adventures even after dark.

In Lygna, Ringkollen, Totenåsen, and Sjusjøen, the snow arrives early, which makes these areas very popular with skiers and the Norwegian cross-country skiing team.

We also suggest trying the Winter wonderland’s railroads, which is the local term for skiing tracks, along the Birkebeiner-route from Sjusjøen.

By the way, did you know that you can go skiing all the way from Oslo to Gjøvik by following the tracks of Norway’s longest cross country skiing contest called “Pendlerrennet”?

Water Sports in Gjøvik

The lakes Mjøsa, Randsfjorden, Einafjorden and Tyrifjorden all have great beaches where kids and adults can soak up the sun, splash about and enjoy water activities.

You can hire a boat or a canoe, or how about going on a high-speed RIB ride with RibSafari Mjøsa? If the weather does not lend itself to outdoor bathing, the leisure pool Totenbadet in Raufoss invites you to its 5,000 m2 indoor water paradise.

Discover the amazing water activities in this Travel guide to Gjøvik with stunning mountain, forest, and park views. Here are four great ways to make a splash:

• Explore Kynna – canoeing, biking, hiking: Kynna is a watercourse at Finnskogen, and is ideal for canoeing and kayaking.
• Beaches in Gran municipality: Gran municipality has established and maintains three beaches by lake Randsfjorden.
• Bergesjøen: The Bergesjøen is a scenic and child-friendly bathing site. Follow the sign from Road number 25 heading for Trysil.
• Kayak rental on Nes & Helgøya: Kayak hire and kayak courses in Tingnes.

Don’t miss out on the other water sports like windsurfing, kite-surfing, and wakeboarding.

For a unique water experience, why not try camping near a lake? Wake up to beautiful sunrise views and nature sounds before taking a swim and having breakfast onshore.

Enjoy water fun for everyone with easy access points all around Gjøvik!

DS Skibladner

Probably no connection to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classical oeuvre – but impressive in its own right. The coat of arms for the town of Gjøvik features a white swan, which has given rise to its famous paddle steamer, Skibladner, being lovingly referred to as “Lake Mjøsa’s white swan”.

This remarkable vessel happens to be the world’s oldest preserved paddle steamer still in regular service, with an impressive sailing history of over 160 years! Departing from Gjøvik every summer (typically between June and August), stepping on board the Skibladner is like embarking on a voyage back to 1856.

Picture majestic live steam engines and enchanting paddle wheels. As you sail northbound to Lillehammer or southbound to Eidsvoll, you can indulge in a sumptuous meal on board. By the time you return to Gjøvik, you will be delighted that you chose to explore and discover the charms of this delightful little town.

Fastland friluftsbad

The open-air swimming pool with many activities for the whole family!
The pool is approximately 200 meters at its longest and is surrounded by large lawns. Here you will find a 10-metre high diving tower, children’s pool, floating jetty, sand volleyball court, skateboard ramp, tennis courts, playground equipment, barbecues, benches and tables in scenic surroundings. Mainland is open all summer and free to use.
Experience Gjøvik’s bathing gem, only 10 minutes’ walk from the centre!

Cycling Tours in Gjøvik

Just south of Gjøvik lies Toten, a place filled with boundless natural beauty, captivating hiking trails, exhilarating cycling paths, and exhilarating cross-country skiing tracks. As you embark on your journey through this enchanting land, prepare to be captivated by the sheer abundance of farm outlets that eagerly showcase a plethora of local treasures on their inviting shelves.

The tourist office recommends the following two great cycling routes:

• Route 1: Gjøvik–Øverby–Knapphaugen–Bergstoppen–Bråstad–Gjøvik
  Duration: approx. 1.5 hours
• Route 2: Gjøvik–Kapp–Lena–Reinsvoll–Raufoss–Gjøvik
  Duration: approx. 2.5 hours

If you’re after something alternative, consider renting an e-bike or joining a guided cycling tour. There are multiple routes to suit every cycling skill.

Explore the beautiful Gjøvik region by bike! There are many fine and varied bike routes whether you prefer on or off-road cycling.