Plan
your trip with this essential Norway travel guide - covering the best
time to visit, visas, transport, costs, and local tips. Discover
everything you need to know before exploring Norway’s stunning
fjords and vibrant cities.
Country: Norway
Continent / Region: Europe / Scandinavia
Capital City: Oslo
Government Type: Constitutional Monarchy
Population: Approx. 5.5 million
Official Language(s): Norwegian (Bokmål & Nynorsk)
English Usage: Very high (~90%)
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+1 / GMT+2 (summer)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (Police), 110 (Fire), 113 (Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 1.5–2 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: June–August (summer) / December–March (Northern Lights)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Part of the Schengen Area - The Schengen Area is a zone of 29 European countries that have abolished internal border controls, allowing for passport-free travel.
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days in 180 days
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Norway):
Average Daily Costs: £60 / £120 / £200+
Tipping Culture: Not expected; rounding up appreciated
Public Transport Options: Trains, trams, buses, ferries, domestic flights
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: NOK 40–50 (city transport)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; Telenor, Telia, Ice
Main Climate Type: Temperate in south; Arctic in far north
Average Temperature: Winter −5–5°C; Summer 15–25°C
Major Cities: Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, Tromsø
Natural Attractions: Fjords, mountains, glaciers, Arctic wilderness
Popular Destinations: Oslo, Bergen, Lofoten Islands, Tromsø, Geirangerfjord, Svalbard
Main Religions: Christianity (Lutheran majority); secular society
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Salmon, reindeer, meatballs, cod, brown cheese, cloudberries
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Geirangerfjord, Bryggen Wharf, Vigeland Park, Lofoten peaks, Holmenkollen Ski Jump
Overall Safety Rating: Extremely safe
Common Scams: Very rare
Health Risks: Winter weather; icy conditions
Recommended Clinics: High-quality hospitals across all regions
Insurance Recommendation: Recommended — especially for winter activities
Internet Speed: Excellent nationwide
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Lofoten Islands, Geirangerfjord, Bergen bryggen, Tromsø Northern Lights, Oslo museums
Unique Experiences: Midnight sun, fjord cruises, dog sledding, Sami culture visits, glacier hikes
Hidden Gems: Senja Island, Aurlandsfjord lookout, Røros, Kjeragbolten, Vesterålen
Popular Areas to Stay: Oslo centre, Bergen waterfront, Tromsø Arctic region, Lofoten villages
Average Hotel Prices: £70 / £130 / £220+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Oslo Grünerløkka, Bergen student bars, Tromsø pubs
Local Drinks: Aquavit, craft beer, berry liqueurs
Entertainment: Live music, saunas, fjord-side bars, cultural theatres
Car Rental: Excellent for fjords & rural travel
Trains: Scenic routes (Oslo–Bergen; Dovre line)
Ferries: Common between fjords & islands
Taxi / Ride Apps: Uber (limited), Vy Taxi, local apps
Best Markets: Oslo Christmas markets, Bergen Bryggen shops, Tromsø crafts
Popular Souvenirs: Sweaters, wool goods, Viking jewellery, chocolates, aquavit
Local SIM Card Providers: Telenor, Telia, Ice
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Exceptionally safe — some of the cleanest in the world
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Norway is consistently ranked among the happiest countries in the world and is the birthplace of modern skiing.