In many ways, Arendelle looks like a quintessential fairy-tale setting, complete with a grand castle in lush surroundings. Much of it is inspired by Bergen, Norway´s second largest city, one of numerous places in Fjord Norway where you can experience a little bit of fairy-tale magic in real life.

While Arendelle is a fictional kingdom from the Frozen franchise, it is geographically and architecturally based on Norway. The name "Arendelle" is derived from the Norwegian town of Arendal, but the kingdom's visual design is inspired by the city of Bergen, known for its colorful wooden buildings and UNESCO-listed wharf. The dramatic mountain-and-fjord landscape seen in the films is modeled after Nærøyfjord, one of Norway's most beautiful and narrowest fjords. Additionally, the royal castle's design is inspired by the Akershus Fortress in Oslo and the historic Stave Churches (like Heddal or Borgund) found throughout the Norwegian countryside. In 2026, fans of the movie often visit Norway's "Fjord Country" to see the real-life inspirations for Elsa's ice palace and Anna's village. Even the "Vuelie" opening chant is based on traditional Sami music from Northern Scandinavia, further grounding the fictional kingdom in the very real cultural heritage of Norway's indigenous people.