Welcome to Norway 😊
Oh, Norway! This Northern European country is known for its breathtaking natural scenery - think towering fjords, cascading waterfalls and pristine forests. But it's not all about the great outdoors; Norway is also home to vibrant cities like Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim, where you can explore centuries-old architecture, world-class museums and trendy cafes and restaurants.
You'll definitely want to spend some time wandering around Oslo, the capital city, where you can see the stunning Opera House, the Edvard Munch Museum (home to the famous painting "The Scream") and the Akershus Fortress. Bergen, on the other hand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the gateway to the fjords - it's the perfect place to start your exploration of Norway's stunning natural wonders.
And speaking of nature, Norway has plenty of it! Whether you want to hike in the mountains, kayak through the fjords, or spot some whales and seals, there's something for everyone. Norwegians are rightly proud of their natural heritage, and there are plenty of national parks and wildlife reserves to explore.
Norway is also a great place to experience Scandinavian culture, from traditional folk music to cutting-edge contemporary art. And of course, you can't leave without trying some Norwegian food - don't miss out on the fresh seafood, hearty stews and sweet treats like waffles and brunost (brown cheese).
If you're looking for a mix of stunning natural beauty, fascinating culture and friendly locals, Norway is the perfect pick!
Quick Facts About Norway
- Currency: Norwegian krone
- Population: 5421241
- Languages: Norwegian
Money and Finances
The currency of Norway is the Norwegian krone (NOK). The denominations of coins are 1, 5, 10, and 20 kroner, and the notes are 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 kroner.
ATM Network
There are many ATMs in Norway, particularly in major cities and tourist areas. It's easy to find an ATM that accepts major credit and debit cards.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Norway, including Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX. However, some smaller businesses may only accept cash or bank transfers. Overall, using credit cards is convenient and easy in Norway.
Internet and Phones
Norway has one of the fastest and most reliable internet infrastructures in the world, with an average download speed of 71.03 Mbps and average upload speed of 37.17 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use in Norway.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The main telco companies in Norway are Telenor, Telia and Ice. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 400 NOK per month, and there are no sim compatibility issues as Norway uses the standard European GSM network.
Dialling to Norway
To call Norway from another country, dial +47 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes in Norway are two digits long, with the most common being 22 for Oslo and 23 for Bergen.
Transport Around Norway
Air Travel
Norway has several major airports, including Oslo Gardermoen Airport, Bergen Flesland Airport, and Trondheim Vaernes Airport.
Train Travel
Norway has an extensive inter-city train network, operated by Vy. A ticket for a 2-hour journey can cost around 300 NOK (approximately 33 USD) and trains run frequently throughout the day. Some popular routes include Oslo to Bergen and Oslo to Trondheim, with journey times of around 6-7 hours.
Metro / Local Trains
Major Norwegian cities such as Oslo and Bergen have local metro trains which run frequently throughout the day, with fares costing around 30 NOK (3 USD) for a single journey.
Buses
Norway also has a comprehensive bus network, with several companies operating services throughout the country. A single ticket for a journey of around 2 hours can cost approximately 200 NOK (22 USD). Popular routes include the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which takes travelers through stunning fjords and mountain landscapes.
Rideshare
Rideshare companies such as Uber and Bolt operate in Norway, with prices averaging around 200 NOK (22 USD) for a 30-minute journey within major cities.
Driving by Car
Driving in Norway is relatively easy, with well-maintained roads and signage in English. The speed limit on highways is typically 90 km/h (56 mph) and Norway uses right-hand drive. However, be aware that the terrain can be challenging in certain regions such as the mountainous roads of central Norway.
Local Customs
In Norway, tipping is not expected, as service is usually included in the bill. Locals greet each other with a handshake, and may also use a hug or a kiss on the cheek if they know each other well. When speaking with strangers, Norwegians tend to be reserved and may initially seem aloof. Men and women address each other with equal respect using their first names or professional titles.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Norway has a high-quality healthcare system that is mostly funded through taxes. Medical services are available both in public and private hospitals and clinics. The approximate cost for a visit to a doctor is around 30-50 USD. Non-EU citizens may need to buy private health insurance.
COVID Situation
Norway has taken strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, such as closing borders, social distancing rules, and mandatory use of face masks. Cases have been kept low in the country, with around 100-200 new cases per day in recent weeks.
Common Health Risks
Norway is generally considered a safe country with few health risks. However, travelers should take precautions against tick-borne diseases, especially in rural areas. Food poisoning may also occur, especially from seafood. Visitors should be aware of the potential dangers of hiking in remote areas, such as hypothermia, falls, and avalanches.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Norway, the legal drinking age is 18. It is prohibited to sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 18, and it is illegal to purchase alcohol for minors. Alcohol can only be sold during certain hours, and there are restrictions on the advertising of alcoholic beverages. Public intoxication is also illegal.
Recreational Drugs
The use, possession, and sale of recreational drugs is illegal in Norway, including cannabis. Penalties for drug offenses can be severe and may include imprisonment. However, the possession and use of small amounts of cannabis for personal consumption has been decriminalized.
Pre-Marital Relationships
Norway does not have any laws specifically criminalizing pre-marital relationships, and such relationships are generally accepted and common in Norwegian society.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Norway was one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, and LGBTQ individuals have equal rights and protections under Norwegian law. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is also illegal.
Firearms / Guns
Norway has relatively strict gun control laws, and owning a firearm requires a license. There are also restrictions on the types of firearms that can be owned and the reasons for owning them. Norway has experienced several high-profile mass shootings, which have led to calls for even stricter gun control measures.
Regions in Norway
There are many wonderful regions to visit in Norway, browse through each to see what to visit.
1 Popular Travel Destination in Norway
