Norway Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Visit Norway

Keep in mind that the Scandinavian climate is highly unpredictable and can change rapidly, even during the summer months. When packing for your Norway holiday, make sure to bring a water-resistant jacket, an umbrella, and, of course, some warm clothes to stay comfortable in varying conditions. However, don’t think of Norway as a country of perpetual cold.

In summer, the weather can be surprisingly warm and very pleasant, with temperatures often reaching comfortable levels. That said, occasional strong winds from the Arctic are still possible, so be prepared for sudden changes. Another essential item to pack is a pair (or two) of comfortable walking shoes. You’ll likely spend a lot of time on walking tours and exploring the incredible natural beauty of Norway, so having durable footwear is a must for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, shops, and restaurants. ATMs are readily available throughout the country. While it’s not necessary to carry large amounts of cash, it's advisable to have some on hand for smaller purchases or in more remote areas where card payment options may be limited. You can easily exchange currency at banks or exchange offices, but always check for favorable rates before converting money.

Tipping in Norway is not required, but if you’re satisfied with the service, a small tip of up to $10 is appreciated. In restaurants, the practice is slightly different. If you’ve had a great experience, it’s common to leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill. Alternatively, you can round up the amount to express your gratitude to the staff. While not expected, these gestures are always welcomed.

Is it possible to have a conversation with a local in Scandinavia without knowing a word in Norwegian? Yes! Most Scandinavians speak perfect English and you won't have any language barriers while traveling there. However, learning some language basics will get you happy smiles of the locals.

Here are some basic Norwegian phrases to learn before your trip:

• Hei (Hi)
• God morgen (Good morning)
• Takk (Thank you)
• Vær så god (You’re welcome / Here you go)
• Unnskyld (Excuse me / Sorry)

Norwegian cuisine is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, such as seafood, dairy, and wild game. Explore The Ultimate Norway and indulge in typical dishes including "klippfisk" (salted cod), "rakfisk" (fermented fish), and "brunost" (brown cheese), which reflect the country’s strong ties to its natural environment and traditional food preservation methods.

Dining in Norway is usually casual, with many restaurants and cafes offering self-service. Lunch is typically light, consisting of sandwiches or simple meals, while dinner is more substantial, often featuring fish, meat, or hearty stews. Coffee is also a popular part of the daily routine.

Alcohol is regulated and only available in bars, restaurants, and government-run stores called Vinmonopolet. The legal drinking age is 18 for beer and wine and 20 for spirits. Alcohol prices tend to be higher than in many other countries, so it’s good to keep this in mind when dining out.

Norway uses a 230V supply voltage and the European two-pin plug (Type C and Type F), which is the standard for most of Europe. If you're traveling from a country that uses a different plug type or voltage, it's important to bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices will fit the Norwegian sockets. In addition, depending on your electronics, you may need a voltage converter, as some devices might not be compatible with the 230V supply.

Most hotels and accommodations in Norway may offer adapters upon request, but it's always a good idea to pack your own. Having a universal adapter on hand will save you time and prevent any inconvenience, especially when you need to charge multiple devices like your phone, laptop, or camera. Keep in mind that outlets may sometimes be limited, so packing an adapter or a multi-port charger can be very helpful for staying connected throughout your trip.

Norway is one of the safest countries for travelers, with a very low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, but it's still important to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or at night. Emergency services respond quickly, and the healthcare system is of high quality. While Norway’s natural beauty is stunning, it can be challenging, so always take proper precautions when hiking or exploring remote areas. Be sure to check the weather conditions, especially in winter, and be prepared for sudden changes.

In case of an emergency, Norway has simple, easy-to-remember numbers. For medical emergencies, dial 113. For police, call 112, and for fire emergencies, dial 110. These numbers are available 24/7 and are free of charge. It’s also a good idea to have the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate in case of serious incidents.