NORWAY TRAVEL GUIDE

Overview

Norway is a breathtaking fusion of dramatic natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. You can explore thousand-year-old Viking history in Oslo’s museums and hike to world-famous cliffs like Trolltunga in the same trip. From the vibrant capital city to remote Arctic wilderness, Norway offers an incredible range of experiences that showcase both ancient traditions and modern Scandinavian innovation.

We absolutely love traveling in Norway. The public transportation connects even remote areas, the locals are welcoming and speak excellent English, and the infrastructure makes exploring everything from urban centers to pristine wilderness surprisingly accessible. Oslo is an excellent starting point – it’s perfect for diving into Norwegian culture at world-class museums, strolling through sculpture parks, and experiencing the blend of modern architecture with Viking heritage.

Bergen serves as your gateway to the legendary fjords and offers that quintessential Norwegian charm with its colorful wooden houses and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The western fjords region, including Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, delivers some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth with towering waterfalls and deep blue waters. To help you choose the perfect fjord experience, explore our comprehensive guide to the best fjord tours in Norway. For the ultimate adventure, head north to Tromsø for Northern Lights viewing and Arctic experiences, or challenge yourself with iconic hikes like Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) near Stavanger.

From the midnight sun of summer to the magical aurora borealis of winter, Norway is a year-round destination that promises unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply want to witness nature at its most magnificent, Norway delivers experiences that will leave you speechless.

Bookmark this Norway travel guide and keep checking back for more of our best Norway travel tips and hidden gems!

Country Snapshot

Norway Travel Information
Language:
Norwegian / English
Capital:
Oslo
Currency:
Norwegian Kroner (NOK)
Power Plugs:
Type C / F
Religion:
Christian
Climate:
Mild winters and cool summers

Safety

Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low crime rates and excellent emergency services. The biggest safety considerations are related to outdoor activities and weather conditions, especially when hiking to places like Trolltunga or Preikestolen.

Most Norwegians speak excellent English, making communication easy for tourists. However, learning a few basic Norwegian phrases like “takk” (thanks) and “unnskyld” (excuse me) is always appreciated.

Accommodation

As a tourist in Norway, you’ll find excellent accommodation options in major cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, as well as smaller towns throughout the fjord regions. Oslo and Bergen offer the widest selection of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. For unique experiences, consider staying in traditional fisherman’s cabins (rorbuer) in the Lofoten Islands or glass igloos for Northern Lights viewing in Tromsø. You can search for the best accommodation deals in Norway on Booking.com or Hotels.com.

Budget

Norway is known for being expensive, but there are ways to manage costs. Hostels start from around 300-500 NOK ($28-47 USD) per night, while budget hotels begin around 800-1200 NOK ($75-113 USD). Private rooms tend to be small but well-equipped. Meals range from 150-300 NOK ($14-28 USD) for casual dining, though grocery shopping and cooking can significantly reduce food costs. For comprehensive money-saving strategies and detailed budget planning tips, check out our complete Norway travel budget guide.

Transport

Transportation in Norway is generally by train, bus, and ferry, with an efficient network connecting most major destinations. The train system is particularly scenic, including famous routes like the Flåm Railway. For remote areas like the Lofoten Islands or Svalbard, domestic flights may be necessary. Renting a car gives you the most flexibility for exploring fjords and national parks. For detailed information on costs, booking strategies, and choosing the best transportation options for your itinerary, explore our Norway transportation guide. I’d recommend using apps like Google Maps or the Ruter app for public transport navigation in Norway.

Best Activities

The Best Activities & Tours That I Recommend

Powered by GetYourGuide

Blog Posts

Scroll to Top