Norway
Europe · Oslo · NO
Norway is a country defined by the interplay of mountains, fjords, and the sea, a landscape so dramatic it has shaped a national identity rooted in outdoor life. The western fjords cut deep into the coastline, their steep walls draped in waterfalls that seem to fall from impossible heights, while the northern coast reaches into the Arctic, where the midnight sun and northern lights mark the seasons. Bergen, with its colorful wooden houses stacked on the hillside above the harbor, serves as the gateway to the fjords, and Oslo, the capital, has reinvented itself with award-winning architecture along its waterfront. Norwegian food culture draws heavily from the sea, with dried cod, smoked salmon, and freshly caught shrimp forming the backbone of the national diet, while the tradition of friluftsliv, or open-air living, runs deep. The country's rail journeys, particularly the Bergen Railway and the Flam Railway, are among Europe's most scenic, climbing through mountain passes and past glacial lakes. Norway is expensive but generous in its natural gifts.
Overview
Norway is a country in Europe. Its capital is Oslo and the international dialling code is +47. Languages commonly used in everyday life here include Norwegian. Local currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Our guide covers 1 airport, including Oslo Airport, Gardermoen. We also list 1 city in Norway: Oslo.
Getting around Norway
Norway's trains connect Oslo with Bergen (the dramatic Bergen Line), Trondheim and the north; the Flåm Railway branches off for one of Europe's steepest train rides. Coastal ferries and the famous Hurtigruten sailing ships run along the coast from Bergen to Kirkenes in the Arctic, and the fjord-ferries cross the deep waterways.
Driving is on the right, tunnels and fjord bridges are common, and tolls are electronic (billed by plate) — no need for cash. In the Arctic, distances are vast and weather changes fast; check the road conditions and the weather forecast before mountain passages. Norway is expensive but fuel and parking are straightforward with a card.
When to visit Norway
June to August are the classic months: the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle, open mountain roads, and the fjords at their warmest. September brings golden colours and the start of aurora season in the north, which lasts through the dark winter until the first bright spring nights.
Winter (December–March) is for ski resorts like Hemsedal and Tromsø's northern-lights and whale-watching tours; the sun barely rises in Tromsø in December. Spring arrives late, with the national day (17 May) and proud celebrations. Whatever the season, pack layers — rain gear matters even in summer.
Eating and drinking
Norwegian food is tied to the coast and the mountains: fresh salmon, cod, stockfish, lamb, and wild berries. Specialties include rømmegrøt (sour-cream porridge served at festivals), brunost (brown goat cheese), and the humble yet iconic "pølse" (hot dog) with shavings at petrol stations.
Sea-to-table cooking is everywhere, and coffee culture is strong (with the "second wave" cafés of Oslo). The country's distilled aquavit and craft beers pair well with the seafood. Tipping is not obligatory — service charges are included — but rounding up 5–10% for good service is appreciated.
Money and local customs
Norway uses the Norwegian krone (NOK), not the euro. Cards and contactless payments work almost everywhere, and many businesses are fully cash-free; keep a card rather than a wallet full of notes.
Norwegians value the outdoors ("friluftsliv") and personal space, and a quiet, honest directness is the norm — it is a compliment, not a sign of coldness. "Hei" is the universal greeting. Always take off your shoes when entering a home, and respect the "allemannsretten" (right to roam) rules with thoughtful camping.
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- Capital
- Oslo
- Currency
- Norwegian Krone (NOK)
- Languages
- Norwegian
- Calling code
- +47
- Internet TLD
- no
Entry requirements
Check who can enter →See which passports travel visa-free or need a visa to enter Norway.
Which nationalities can enter Norway?
Current visa status for tourism for the origins we cover, with links to the detailed requirements.
Airports (1)
All airports →Cities (1)
All cities →Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Norway?
For the origins we track, travellers from Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina and Australia currently enter Norway visa-free for tourism. Entry rules depend on your passport and the purpose of your trip, so check the current requirements for your own nationality with our entry requirements tool.
What is the capital of Norway?
Oslo is the capital of Norway, and the country sits in Europe.
What currency is used in Norway?
You pay with Norwegian Krone (NOK) in Norway. Exchange rates move day to day, so check the current rate before you change money or use your card abroad.
Which languages do people speak in Norway?
The languages we list for Norway are Norwegian. A couple of greetings in the local language go a long way when you travel, even in cities where another language is widely used.
What is the international dialling code for Norway?
The dialling code for Norway is +47 — keep the plus sign when you save the number.
Which airports serve Norway?
Oslo Airport, Gardermoen (OSL) in Oslo is the airport we cover for Norway.
Which cities in Norway do you cover?
Our guide lists 1 city for Norway: Oslo (capital).