Norway Travel Guide

Overview

Norway is a dream destination for nature lovers, with its stunning fjords, northern lights, and picturesque villages. Whether you’re chasing the midnight sun in summer or the magical auroras in winter, Norway offers bucket list experiences at every turn. The capital, Oslo, blends modern Scandinavian culture with Viking history, while cities like Bergen and Tromsø serve as gateways to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. If you love adventure, scenic train rides, and fresh Nordic cuisine, Norway should be at the top of your list.

Quick Facts About Norway

Flight Information for Norway

As a tourist, your main airports in Norway will be Oslo (OSL), Bergen (BGO), and Tromsø (TOS). Oslo has direct flights from major cities worldwide, while Bergen and Tromsø are well-connected within Europe. For domestic flights, Norwegian Air and SAS are the main carriers. You can shop for flights to Norway on Skyscanner or Google Flights.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Norway

Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. However, if you’re heading into remote areas (like the Arctic or mountain regions), weather conditions can be unpredictable. Always check forecasts and prepare accordingly.

• Petty theft is rare, but keep an eye on your belongings in tourist-heavy spots like Oslo’s central station.
• Road conditions can be challenging in winter. Rent a car only if you’re comfortable with icy roads.
• Emergency number: 112 (works for police, fire, and medical help).

Climate

Norway’s climate varies dramatically by region and season:

• South (Oslo, Bergen): Mild summers (15–25°C / 59–77°F), cold winters (often below freezing).
• North (Tromsø, Lofoten): Arctic winters with polar nights (Nov–Jan), midnight sun in summer (May–Jul).

Best time to visit?

• Northern lights: October to March
• Hiking & fjords: June to August
• Fewer crowds & cheaper: April–May, September

I visited Norway in February for the northern lights, and while it was freezing, the experience was absolutely worth it.

Budget

Norway is not a budget destination, but smart planning can help. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Hostels: Approx 300–600 NOK ($30–60 USD) per night
• Hotels: Approx 1000+ NOK ($100+ USD)
• Meals: Approx 150–300 NOK ($15–30 USD) for a casual meal
• Transport: Trains & buses are efficient but pricey (book in advance for discounts).

Money-saving tip: Buy groceries instead of eating out every meal. Norway has great supermarkets like Rema 1000 and Kiwi.

Other Must-Know Tips:

• Public transport is excellent to get an Oslo Pass if staying in the capital.
• Credit cards are widely accepted (even for small purchases).
• Tipping is not expected but appreciated for great service.
• Tap water is safe & delicious (Norway has some of the cleanest water in the world).

Final Thoughts

Norway is a once in a lifetime destination, whether you’re chasing the northern lights, hiking epic fjords, or exploring Viking history. It’s not the cheapest, but the landscapes and experiences are worth every krone.

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions