Solo Travel in Norway

Norway isn’t everyone’s first choice for solo travel, not because it’s not safe but because some of the destinations are quite remote. In the cities you can meet plenty of people but venture into the rural areas if you really want to enjoy the nature as a true solo. That’s not to say that you may not be pitching your tent next to another woman travelling alone, but that Norway gives you as much solitude as you need.

There are groups to join for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking if you want company for your trip. And you don’t have to feel awkward dining alone here either as you’ll often find people eating in restaurants solo. Norway is very safe and has a low crime rate. You can even hitchhike here (although as always use your instinct).

Is Norway safe to travel alone? Norway is a safe, beautiful country to travel to. It's picturesque and has some of the most stunning fjords. Norwegians can be known for being a bit distant but they are very helpful and polite and will openly speak to you and help if you get lost. It’s often listed as one of the top places for the equal treatment of women in Europe making it a refreshing country to visit.

Norway is a wonderful country to explore independently that's why we've given it 4 out of 5 stars but for ease and to meet others you may prefer to take one of our recommended Norwegian tours.

Best Places To Visit in Norway

Situated in Scandinavia, Norway is at the northern point of Europe, tucked away at the very top. Known for majestic landscape, Norway is a country that promises UNESCO status fjords, tranquil national parks and plenty of Viking history including the timber structure of the stave church, of which there are 28 preserved in the country.

If you’ve ever wanted to see the Northern Lights, stunning fjords, and glaciers, Norway is the ideal destination. As well as beautiful terrain there are opportunities to see whales, reindeer and even polar bears, just some of the unique things to do in Norway.

Of course you can find people here too. The Sami tribe are the indigenous tribe of Norway and reindeer herders. You can visit the tribe and learn more about their culture.

Another of Norway’s attractions is its seasons. They may experience hours of darkness in the winter but this provides perfect viewing for the Northern Lights. Try your hand at husky sledging or take a fjord Norway cruise to explore the west coast’s islands and wild coastline.

Travelling Norway in the summer allows you to experience the midnight sun (just don’t forget to pack your eye mask). Below, we've listed the top things to see in Norway.

* Click here to discover all activities and things to do in Norway

Aurora Borealis from Lofoten

Oslo Sightseeing

Oslo is the capital and is one of the most popular cities bursting with plenty of free things to see and do including many museums, and the Vigeland Sculpture Park. Things to do in Oslo Norway are: take a walk through Frogner – the poshest district – or just do as the locals do and wander around this green city admiring the fountains and artwork.

You can’t miss the Oslo Opera House with its sloping roof, it's one of the top Norway tourist attractions in Oslo (The nightlife is fantastic too). The Viking Ships Museum and Historical Museum are two of the best museums here. You can gain access to both museums with a combined entry ticket.

You don’t have to wait until Bergen to take a tour of Norway fjords (one of the best things to see in Norway), as Oslo has its own. As well as exploring Oslo from the sea, you can discover the dramatic landscapes of the Fjords on a two hour tour.

Travel to Oslo Norway and there is so much to see here that you'll need at least two nights. Oslo has more than 30 museums and attractions. It's the perfect start to a Norway trip. Get free public transport and access to museums and attractions with the Oslo Pass (from 24 to 72 hours).

Bergen

Visit Bergen

Then there’s Bergen, the country’s second largest city and one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. Home to one of Europe’s prettiest waterfronts. Bryggen, the Hanseatic Wharf is a colourful reminder of its past. Nowadays you can explore this World Heritage City that has been transformed into art galleries, museums and cosy cafes, or learn more about the city's best secrets on a private tour.

Things to do in Bergen Norway are: walk to the top of Mount Fløyen to enjoy the view (try the waffles too) then take the Fløibanen cable car back down. The main reason to visit is to explore some of Norway’s wildest and most picturesque fjords, the main tourist attractions in Norway. You may even spot the Northern Lights if you visit at the right time of the year.

Tromso in the Arctic Circle

Tromsø Norway

You can’t miss Tromsø off your Norway travel itinerary. Tromsø is one of the best places to visit in Norway in winter. Situated in northern Norway, this place should be at the beginning of your Nordic adventures. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic,’ this is one of the best places in the world to see the Tromsø Northern Lights due to its winter darkness. Take a Tromso Northern Lights tour to see this amazing natural phenomenon and experience Norwegian culture.

Tromso is a great place to base yourself and take advantage of its spectacular famous fjords that border the Norwegian Sea. This area of the Arctic Sea is abundant with sea eagles, seals and puffins so keep your eyes peeled if you take a fjord cruise.

If you've ever wanted to take a husky sledge then Tromso is the place to do it (it's one of the fun things to do in Norway). You can learn how to ‘mush' in the Arctic circle as the huskies pull you along in the snow (just wrap up warm before you go).

One of things to do in Norway in February is see the whales and Tromso is also a known spot for whale watching with humpback whales and killer whales within its waters. These can be seen from October to mid-February.

If you come at the right time of year you may be able to see the whales and the Northern Lights in one visit. There are so many beautiful Norway attractions here that you won't want to leave.

Trondheim

It may not have the Northern Lights or be a gateway to the fjords but Trondheim does have a long Viking history. Situated in Trøndelag, the historic centre of Norway, this area is deeply rooted in the country’s traditions and is the perfect base for exploring nature reserves and a wild coastline. This colourful, laid-back city may be slightly off the beaten track but it’s a Norway must see, even if just for the Nidaros Cathedral.

Sommaroy (photo @ Marie Bran)

Flåm Norway

If you decide to travel around Norway by train, the Flåm Railway is one of the prettiest train rides you will ever take. It is also Europe’s steepest as it passes by waterfalls, mountains and little villages on its 20km train ride, culminating at Aurlandsfjord. See UNESCO World Heritage landscape and the world’s narrowest fjord at Nærøyfjord and enjoy the serenity of Aurlandsfjord which is home to Sognefjord, the world’s longest fjord.

Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are located 50 miles off the mainland and above the Arctic Circle. These islands have one of the largest concentrations of the white tailed sea eagle so it’s one of the top things to do in Norway for bird lovers. The ‘Lofoten Wall’ is a must see in Norway. It is a spectacular series of dramatic peaks that rise out of the sea. You won’t need to spend much money here as it’s all about the nature and rugged beauty.

Stavanger Region

Situated in Southwest Norway is the Stavanger region, a beautiful area with deep fjords, mountains and valleys. Popular with tourists and cruise ships, this region is an ideal base to explore the Lysefjord, Sandnes, and Pulpit Rock which is one of Norway's best places to visit and a top Norway destination. Hiking here at sunset should definitely be on your Norway hiking itinerary. Find out more about the Pulpit Rock hike

This region attracts those seeking adventure; surfers come to ride the waves of the Jæren beaches, kayakers come to explore its waters and adrenalin seekers come to paraglide over its stunning views. Whatever adventure sport you’re into you can find it here.

Alesund, Norway

Alesund Norway

Travel to the west coast and you’ll find some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Ålesund is the gateway to Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most beautiful spots. The best way to see Norway's fjords is to hop aboard a boat trip.

Geirangerfjord has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is Norway’s most dramatic stretch of water. You could also visit Geiranger, in the west – another gateway to the fjords and a good place to ski.

Kirkenes

At the top of Norway, close to the Russian border is the small city of Kirkenes, north of the Arctic Circle. This little city has things to do in both summer and winter and is also a good spot to hop on a cruise with Kirkenes being the turning point for the Hurtigruten steamer.

There are so many beautiful places to see in Norway and bucket list adventures. From Norway's scenery to the best of Norway's cities to visit, there is so much to see on a Norway solo trip, especially if you love nature.

Oslo Opera House (Photo @ Emily Banwell)

Tours in Norway

Tours are a great way to meet like-minded people and they take the stress out of planning your own trip, especially if your time is limited. You'll discover what to see in Norway and learn about the country's culture as well as the places to go in Norway. If you are planning a Norway visit and are unsure where to visit in Norway, here are our recommended companies for tours Norway.

G Adventures Norway – Immerse yourself in Norwegian culture while benefiting from the perks of a small group tour. The average group size is 12 people for each guided tour. Experiences vary from a 7 day adventure seeing the Northern Lights and exploring the Arctic Circle by rail to venturing into the realm of the Polar Bear. You can even start your trip from Edinburgh and travel on the G Expedition ship all the way to Tromsø on a 2-week tour. I have personally used G Adventures and highly recommend them as a solo female friendly company. * Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Local Tour Companies

Free Tour Oslo – These Oslo tours are such great value. A local tour guide will lead free walking tours around the city of Oslo offering entertaining facts. It is one of the free things to do in Norway, you just need to make a donation at the end, depending on how much you enjoyed the tour.

Norway in a Nutshell offers exactly what it says. If you are short on time and unsure where to go in Norway you can experience fjord tours, the Flåm Railway, and the best of the country’s scenery. Tours are independent rather than guided and last from one to three days. They also offer Northern Lights tours and Norway tours from Oslo.

Cycle along the fjord coastline, past waterfalls and though gardens with Viking Biking on an Oslo city tour to see the Norway points of interest. It's a unique way to do a tour of Norway's capital city.

Greenlander are a local tour operator who offer small and eco friendly trips. See the Northern Lights or go on a winter kayaking trip.

Go whale watching on an inflatable boat from Tromsø and ride to Kvaløya Island to spot humpback, pilot and killer whales as well as seals and other sea life. Whale watching takes place from October to mid-February.

Arctic Adventure Tours – If your dream is to go on an overnight husky sled and stay in a Sami tent or experience a whale safari, this company has recommended Norway tour packages.

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and full day tours in worldwide destinations including Norway. Choose from a 2-hour Oslo Fjord cruise, a whale safari in Tromso, or a 7-hour Northern Lights tour. Although some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people, there are several Norway day tours to book as a solo and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book your day trips online. * Check all Get Your Guide day tours and prices here

Accommodation in Norway

Norway has all types of accommodation and although the country is known for being expensive you can stay cheaply if you bring a tent with you. Norway has wild camping which means that you can camp anywhere for free as long as you get the property owner’s permission (or camp at least 150 metres from the nearest building). This includes camping around Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), the dramatic ledge with views over Lysefjord.

You’ll find cabins here if you don’t have a tent although they obviously cost more. If you’re venturing into rural Norway look into the Norwegian Trekking Association who offer cabins along the way. There is Airbnb in the cities which can be cheaper than staying in a hotel and you get the luxury of staying with a local who can give you tips on where to go and how to get around etc.

As well as international chain hotels, there are resorts, lodges and boutique hotels in Norway. You'll also find fjord hotels Norway if you're looking to escape the cities but if you are driving it is difficult to find accommodation offering free parking

If you are backpacking Norway alone, hostels in Norway are good quality and ideal places to meet other travellers. Below are the best places to stay Norway for solo female travellers including the best hotels in Norway for location and the coolest hotels in Norway for friendliness. For all other accommodation Norway, click on the link below.

To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in Norway

Bergen – First Hotel Marin

If you prefer somewhere with a bit more comfort, First Hotel Marin is just steps away from Bryggen, and in a perfect location for exploring Bergen's points of interest. It’s also walkable from Bergen Central Station. Once a former print shop, this hotel has wooden floors and oak furniture as part of its decor.

The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable and quiet so you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep. Choose from a choice of different views and if you’re feeling flush opt for the harbour and city views from the penthouse room. All rooms come with a free delicious breakfast and free Wifi.

Prices start from £125 for a twin room with a private bathroom.
To book, check prices or availability for First Hotel Marin

Bergen – Marken Gjestehus

Ranked the best hostel in Norway over several years, we love this stylish affordable accommodation with a choice of single rooms as well as dorm rooms. When you're not exploring the city (but it is practically on your doorstep), you can relax on a sofa and watch TV in the living room.

Use the kitchen to make your own coffee or treat yourself to a cappuccino from the coffee machine. Plus there is a washer and dryer to get your clothes clean and fresh before moving on.

If you choose a private room, you'll even get your own wardrobe to hang your clothes (a very rare treat when backpacking), and a mirror, reading light and a desk. Marken Guesthouse is a safe place to stay and is located in a very quiet and safe area. It’s in one of the nice pedestrian areas in Bergen, near the railway station and Bergen Storsente.

Prices start from £29 for a bed in a 10 bed dormitory room
To book, check prices or availability for Marken Guesthouse

Oslo – Ellingsens Pensjonat

If you are unsure which accommodation in Norway Oslo to choose, Ellingsens Pensjonat is one of the hotels in Oslo city centre. It is near to a tram and walking distance to grocery shops and restaurants.

There is free access to a gym so you can keep up with your fitness regime during your stay, and there is a garden to enjoy some sunshine in the summer. Although it is in a good location you may want to bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper due to the noise of the tram.

Prices start from £70 for a single room with shared bathroom
To book, check prices or availability for Ellingsens Pensjonat

Oslo – Saga Poshtel Oslo Central

This hostel is in an excellent location near Karl Johans Gate and just a short walk from the Royal Castle. The staff are really helpful and man the reception desk 24 hours which is ideal if you are arriving late into the night. Although it’s a hostel it feels more like a sociable hotel.

If you are travelling overland after Oslo then Central Station is easy to reach on foot. Meet other travellers in the lounge area or over the buffet breakfast (which is included). Choose from a 4,6, 8 or 12 bed dorm or your own private room.

Prices from £41 for a bed in a 6-bed dormitory room
To book, check prices or availability for Saga Poshtel Oslo Central

Tromso – Scandic Grand Tromso

If you prefer your Tromso accommodation to come with a huge buffet breakfast and free tea and coffee, the Scandic Grand Tromsø is a great choice. Located on a shopping street, the main attractions are just a short walk away. You’ll also find an onsite cafe and bar serving local and international cuisine.

Prices from £70 for a twin room with private bathroom
To book, check prices or availability for Scandic Grand Tromso

Tromso – Smarthotel Tromso

If you need to work during your stay Smarthotel Tromso offers your very own work desk in your room in addition to a TV. The lobby offers snacks too so you don’t even need to find a restaurant after a long day of sightseeing. Plus it’s only a short walk from the Polar Museum, Aquarium and the cruise terminal.

Prices start from £55 for a single room with a private bathroom
To book, check prices or availability for Smarthotel Tromso

Trondheim – Trondheim Vandrerhjem

Trondheim Hostel is one of the few hostels in Trondheim. It’s modern, clean and stylish with everything that you would expect from a hostel and more. It’s located on top of a hill in a quiet neighbourhood with fantastic views from the top.

The kitchen is well equipped for any meals that you want to prepare if you don’t want to walk down the hill to the centre of the city (a supermarket is nearby). The TV area makes it easy to mingle with the travellers and there is a choice of mixed dormitory rooms or female-only rooms.

Prices start from £31 for a bed in a 4 bed dormitory room
To book, check prices or availability for Trondheim Vandrerhjem

How To Travel in Norway

If you want to be independent, the best way to tour Norway is with your own car. Driving in Norway allows you total control over your time and can see everything that you want to see in one day or more. Getting around Norway is easier with a car but this can be an expensive option if you are touring Norway solo. The infrastructure in Noway is well designed with good roads and routes.

If you are planning on taking a road trip in southern Norway along the Skagerrak coast or driving the Atlantic Road, then a car allows you to stop wherever you choose and be on your own schedule. Explore a National Tourist Route and self-drive yourself through wild scenery in Norway’s fjords.

There are eighteen routes including the Atlantic Road and the Sognefjellet Mountain Road. You can drive your way from Geiranger to Trollstigen too. There are so many options; just drive carefully on the mountain roads. For car rental in Norway, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a credit card. Check car rental here

With the country having some beautiful train journeys it makes sense to jump onboard one of the NSB trains, some of which are sleeper trains (there is one from Trondheim). This is a great way to travel Norway without a car. Trains are the best way to get around Norway and if you can book in advance do, to take advantage of the discounted Minipris tickets. You can buy tickets up to 90 days in advance. See the Norway train map here

If you are combining Norway with other countries, the best way to travel to Norway and beyond is with the option of a Eurail Norway Pass with Rail Europe. This offers 3 to 8 days of rail travel within a one-month period.

Norway also has good internal flights with Norwegian Airlines and also Scandinavian Airlines which are ideal if you’re short on time. Buses also travel long distances so you can travel between Bergen and Trondheim for example.

All the larger cities have good public transportation such as trains, buses, metros and trams. Take a hop-on hop-off bus in Oslo to get your bearings and see the main sights. If you are feeling really active you can cycle your way around Norway which is perfect for the midnight sun but don’t forget the tunnels that can be dark. Find out how to get around Oslo with our Oslo guide.

The best way to travel around Norway if you are on a budget is by bus. Norway has an extensive network of buses which link to the major towns, ferry terminals and rural areas. The Norway nationwide bus system is called Norway bussekspress.

Take the Fjord Express from Bergen to Trondheim or the Kystbussen from Stavanger to Bergen, amongst others. It's the cheapest way to travel within Norway; just pre-book online to guarantee your seat (and for discounts). Find routes here

The local buses are also good too and you can even reach waterfalls on the local buses. In the cities you can buy your ticket onboard the bus. If you are planning to stay a while, it may be worth purchasing a one-day or weekly travel card. Click here for more details.

Public transport in Norway also includes ferries especially if you plan to visit the islands. They are part of life in Norway and make island hopping easier. Hitchhiking is quite common here in the rural areas where there may be no taxis (but obviously use your own discretion).

Norway is known for its fjord cruises and the best way to visit Norway fjords is on a cruise. Hurtigruten is a Norwegian cruise and ferry operator who offer fjord cruises and also ferries from port to port.

Norway Solo Travel Itinerary

How to travel Norway – Norway is quite spread out but you can see the majority of the country within 2 weeks. If you are planning to see Norway in a week you could combine Oslo with Bergen by flying into Oslo and out of Bergen and taking the train between the two.

If you have two weeks, travel from the bottom to the top of Norway beginning in the country’s capital, Oslo and ending in Tromsø. When travelling in Norway you may prefer to just visit a specific region such as the south, the west or the coast instead.

Below are examples of a Norway travel itinerary to help you to plan your solo Norway trip, whether you are planning a week in Norway or 10 days in Norway.

Norway itinerary: 7 days – Oslo (3 nights, Bergen (2 nights), Flam (2 nights).

Norway itinerary: 10 days – Oslo (4 nights), Trondhiem (3 nights), Tromso (3 nights) flying in-between.

Two weeks’ itinerary

Oslo (3 nights) – 7 hour train to Bergen (2 nights), 2.5 hour train and bus to Flam (2 nights), 10 hour bus and ferry to Geiranger (2 nights), 6.5 hour bus and train to Trondheim (2 nights), 3.5 hour flight to Tromso (3 nights).

3 Weeks in Norway itinerary

Oslo, Lillehammer, Geirangerfjord, Jostedal Glacier, Fjaerland, Sognefjord, Naeroyfjord, Bergen, Hardangerfjord, Latefoss Waterfall, and Telemark.

Norway Travel Guide

If you need a guide book for your travels, our Girl about the Globe Guide to Norway is written by solo females for solo females. We have chosen the best destinations in Norway for women travelling solo, included all of our favourite must-sees, restaurants, bars, and recommended accommodation for you to stay in, and added a few solo and local tips too. We know that not every woman travels the same so we’ve split this guide into different types of solos.

Find out how to escape the crowds, the best places to interact with the locals, where to go for the best view and what to do in the evenings. Follow our 7-14 day itinerary for a recommended route and discover the best of Norway, one solo footprint at a time. * Find out more about our Norway guide book here

* If you prefer Lonely Planet or Rough Guides click here for all Norway guide books

What To Pack For Norway

If you’re unsure what to pack for solo female travel Norway, we have created a guide of our favourite solo travel products to help you decide what to pack. One of our favourite travel accessories (as well as a sleep mask for the midnight sun), for Norway are these clothes from Patagonia.

If you are planning on travelling during the winter or hiking in Norway then you’ll need clothes that will keep you warm. Find out why we love these below and click on the link to discover all of our favourite travel products:

* Click here for all of our recommended travel accessories for solos

Patagonia Fleece Pullover

Patagonia support Grassroots organisations to find solutions to the environmental crisis. Their Worn Wear collection are recrafted clothes made from other clothes so you’re doing your bit for the environment too. As well as these fleece pullovers they also offer merino socks, jackets, base layers and so much more, perfect for Norway vacations. * Shop all Patagonia clothing

Best Time To Visit Norway

The best time to go to Norway really depends on what Norway activities you want to see and do. Whether you want to hike in the summer months and book Norway summer tours or experience the snow activities in the Norway winter.

If you prefer to be here during the warmer months, March to August have the best temperatures but the high season for Norway tourism is from June to August so avoid these months if you want to escape the crowds. If you’ve never seen midnight sun before then go during June and July to experience the nights with day light (just don’t forget your sleep mask).

The best opportunities to see the Norway Northern Lights are between October and March to see this amazing phenomena, and one of the best things to do in Norway in March. If you visit in the Norway summer don’t be deceived with warm temperatures during the day as they can still drop at night. Take a coat and wrap up warm no matter what the season.

The chart below shows the average maximum day temperatures for Oslo (from January to December). The best month to visit Norway is July.

Travel Insurance For Norway

Norway is a really safe country to explore but as many of the things to see in Norway involve hiking, travel insurance is always recommended for a solo trip to Norway to cover you for any travel delays, medical assistance and activities.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Norway. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Airports in Norway

Norway has a number of international airports with Oslo the main international airport in the country. Below are listed the most popular international airports in Norway and how to get to and from each one. For all other airports check Rome2Rio for travelling information.

Bergen (BGO)

From the international airport, there is an airport bus that runs every 15 minutes. If you like being prepared you can buy your ticket online before you travel.

Oslo (OSL)

There are 3 different airports here. The main airport is Gardermoen where you can take the express train called Flytoget or an NSB train (Norges Statsbaner) both to Nationaltheatret Station. The regional NSB train is cheaper than the Flytoget and seems to do exactly the same journey.

From Moss Airport it’s an hour into the city. A shuttle bus takes you 15 minutes to Rygge Train Station where you can take an express train to Oslo Bus Terminal.

From Torp Airport it’s 1 hour 45 minutes to Oslo and there is a bus that stops at Oslo Bus Terminal.

Stavanger (SVG)

You can take a taxi from Stavanger Airport for approximately £40 for the 15 minute journey or there are frequent Flybusses operated by Kolumbus which take 30 minutes and cost less at £3.

Tromsø (TOS)

As well as taxis from the airport, an airport express coach runs between the airport and the city centre and only takes 15 minutes. Check the Airport Express timetable. There is also a normal city bus that goes to the airport (routes 40 and 42). Buy your ticket onboard or at Point Kiosk (costs approx NOK 50).

Trondheim (TRD)

There are taxis outside the arrival hall but if you don’t mind taking public transport, there’s a train from Trondheim Airport that takes 35 minutes to the city centre. Find the prices and schedule here. There is also an airport bus service. Check Nettbuss for times and prices.

Border Crossings (check visas before you travel)

If you have time, you can combine Norway with other destinations. Car ferries operate to Sweden, Denmark and Germany making it easy for you to take your car to another country.

To Sweden – You can travel to Stockholm and Gothenburg from Oslo or Trondheim by train. Buses also operate from Oslo. Use Rome2Rio for planning your journey.

To Finland – From Tromsø, and other places in Norway there is a bus company called Eskelisen Lapinlinjat which runs to Finland.

To Russia – Norway's only official border with Russia is Storskog, which is near to Kirkenes. You can organise a tour from Kirkenes into Russia. From anywhere else the best option is to fly.

To Denmark – Color Line operates ferry services from Larvik to Hirtshals in Denmark.

Where can I go from here?

Sweden – 1 hour
Finland – 1.5 hrs
Denmark – 1.15 hrs

How To Be a Conscious Traveller in Norway

Here’s how to be a conscious traveller in Norway. Norway is known for the Sami tribe, an indigenous tribe known for reindeer herding in the north of the country. Preserving their way of life is an important part of Norwegian culture. Taking a responsible tour to see the Sami tribe helps promote sustainability but make sure you ask permission before taking any photographs. You can learn more about their culture at in Karasjok, at the Sápmi Culture Park.

Visit a fish market and you’ll find whale meat on the menu. Norway has a long tradition of whaling, and although they only allow hunting of species with a large population, whaling is still part of their culture. Avoid eating whale meat if you can.

Whale watching is obviously popular here, and boats are required to stay a certain distance from the whales so choose a local company that contributes to whale conservation and has a marine biologist onboard to teach you more.

Social Impact Programs

Erlik Kaffe, a coffee shop in Akersgata, is a social enterprise that aims to raise awareness of the suffering of homelessness and poverty. They offer coffee with a conscious. Their employees are people who had been forced to sleep rough and former street paper vendors (similar to the Big Issue).

Volunteering in Norway

If you are looking to volunteer in Norway, One World 365 offers volunteering placements from helping to alleviate human suffering and distress with the Norwegian Red Cross, working on a small Biodynamic farm in the fjords, increasing cultural awareness and understanding and many more. Check their website for placement details.

FAQs About Norway

Can I drink the water? Yes, the tap water is fine is Norway or you could take your own water filter with you.
Is tipping expected? No but people tip 10% if they are happy with the service.
Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
Any ATMS? Yes.
Which side of the road do they drive? The right-hand side.
Good for vegetarians? Yes.
What is there to do in Norway? Take a fjord cruise (a must do in Norway), see the wildlife, spot the Northern Lights, and learn about the history of the Vikings.
Any Seven Wonders of the World? Yes, Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights).

Map of Norway

Planning a Trip to Norway

If you are ready to plan a trip to Norway here are some useful links to help you plan your trip including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required, and eco accommodation.

Budget – £90+ a day

Current Time in Oslo

Facts

Capital – Oslo

Population – 5.08 million

Language Spoken – Norweigan and English

Local Currency – Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Do I Need a Visa?

Vaccinations Required

Useful Info

Airlines to Norway

Best Time to Go – July & August

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Norway

Events & Festivals in Norway

Local Cost Guide

Local Customs & Etiquette

Emergency = Dial 110 for Fire, 112 for Police, 113 for Medical.

Did you know? You can see the Northern Lights from Norway.

Useful Norwegian phrases

Stay Eco

Juvet Landscape Hotel is the first landscape hotel in Europe, situated in the farmstead at Alstad in Valldal.

Lynne Lodge is a luxury boutique lodge which provides a complete Arctic experience under one roof.

Volunteering

If you want to experience Grassroots volunteering in Norway, there are various opportunities. Choose from helping with husky tours, working with animals or agriculture on a working farm, or interacting with guests at a hostel.

If you are aged 18-30 years old you can volunteer in Norway with the British Red Cross. Placements last 12 months. As a volunteer you will work with a variety of different people and make a real difference to people’s lives.

Cultural Experiences

For some cultural history, visit Sommarøy, a small fishing village in the Arctic Circle where the residents depend on herring for their livelihoods. Less than 500 people live in this village they call “summer island.”

Watch a cultural performance of folk dancing, taste freshly baked traditional Norwegian lefse, and experience daily life in rural Norway in the 1950s at the Norsk Folkemuseum, an interactive museum where you can spend hours.

If you’ve never seen glass blowing before, visit Stine Hoff Kunstglass to watch Stine Hoff herself creating a beautiful piece of glassware. As a recognised glossarist she has had exhibitions all over Norway.

Local Projects

The MiRA Centre is an NGO which works with Black, Immigrant and Refugee women. It was founded in 1989 and works to improve the living conditions of minority women and girls in Norway. You can volunteer with MIRA Resource Centre on short-term projects.

Mind Body & Soul

If you are planning to visit Bergen, Ask Retrea t Centre on the island of Askøy holds yoga and meditation retreats. Attend in the summer months for 5 or 10 days.

Dharma Mountain offers women’s retreats as well as meditation and yoga retreats in Hedalen.

A unique way to treat yourself is at Vulkana, a spa on a boat. Enjoy the zen room, a sauna or a hot tub in stunning scenery before indulging in a spa treatment in this unique arctic spa.

You don't have to go all the way to Turkey to experience a Turkish bath, Trondheim H amman offers the experience in Norway. Start in the steam before the massage on warm marble slabs. It's the perfect way to spend a cold afternoon.

Issues in the Country

Norway doesn’t really have many local issues but it does face a serious environmental problem which is caused by industrial activity. Acid rain, a form of air pollution has damaged many of Norway’s forests and waterways, meaning that many of the lakes are no longer able to support fish. For a country with fish being one of their main food resources, this is posing a serious concern for Norway. Read more.

Solo Travel in Norway