norway tour expenses

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Norway Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Norway?

• How much does a one-week trip to Norway cost?
• How much does a two-week trip to Norway cost?
• How much does a one-month trip to Norway cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Norway

Visitors to Norway usually spend between $51 and $261 per day on average for one person and $102 to $522 for two people. While this is a wide range, the average daily cost averages $117 (kr1,283) per person. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses from other travelers. Your individual travel expenses may vary based on travel style and the locations visited, but if you plan wisely while visiting the most popular destinations, such as Oslo, Bergen, and Tromso, then you'll likely spend somewhere in this price range while on your trip. Further down we have a breakdown of expenses by category, as well as a comparison of independent travel versus guided tour prices.

If you're considering an independent trip to Norway, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $51 (kr555) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $117 (kr1,283) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $261 (kr2,852), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Norway from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Norway .

How much does a one week trip to Norway cost?

Most visitors spend between $355 and $1,826 for a one week trip to Norway, with the average being $821. This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to visit one, two, or maybe three locations in Norway, depending on how in-depth you want to make your visit. Some of the most popular places to visit are Oslo , Bergen , and Tromso .

How much does a two week trip to Norway cost?

With two weeks, you should budget between $711 and $3,652 for your trip to Norway. The average price for a two week trip is $1,642. Two weeks will allow you enough time to visit between three and five places. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider some of the more affordable places such as Lofoten Islands and Gjovik.

How much does a one month trip to Norway cost?

With a month-long trip to Norway, expenses can be anywhere from $1,523 to $7,825 with the average being $3,519. The cost of travel is dependent on your overall style of travel. If you have a full month, you'll likely want to stay at a vacation rental with a kitchen during at least part of your trip so that you can prepare your own meals. Backpackers often prefer hostels for the same reason. Hostels also offer a more social atmosphere at a very affordable price range.

Hostel Prices in Norway

With more than 10 hostels in Norway, the average price is $33 per night for a dorm bed. Hostels are a terrific option for younger independent travelers looking to save money while staying social during their trip. With many types of hostels, it can be overwhelming to sort out the best places, though. Our analysis of the hostels in Norway not only found the average price, but also uncovered some surprises about the overall quality, amenities, and atmosphere of hostels in the region. You can see more details from our analysis about typical hostel prices in Norway here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Norway.

• $23 for a dorm bed at HI Bergen Hostel Montana in Bergen more details
• $29 for a dorm bed at Tromso Activities Hostel in Tromso more details

Hotel Prices in Norway

You'll find a wide range of hotel options across Norway. Below are prices for some of the destinations, and for more details see our analysis of hotel costs in Norway .

Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz Oslo

Scandic flesland airport.

Should you do an organized tour or travel independently in Norway?

Organized tours are an easy and convenient way to visit Norway. All of the details are handled by travel experts, and during the trip you'll benefit from the knowledge of an expert guide.

Traveling independently offers freedom and flexibility that is hard to find on an organized tour.

Many travelers appreciate the convenience and ease that an organized tour offers. Many tours provide transportation and expert guides that help you enjoy your trip.

Alternatively, you'll enjoy freedom and flexibility with independent travel that is difficult to find with an organized tour.

Comparing Trip Costs in Norway

When we compare the prices of organized tours to the average costs of independent travelers, we can see that sometimes the prices are fairly even.

Tours vs. independent Travel: Pros & Cons

Organized tours.

• An expert guide familiar with the culture
• Convenient transportation
• Fellow travelers to socialize with
• Well researched activities
• Efficient and thought out itinerary
• The security of have a trip leader if something goes wrong
• Limited options
• Usually not customizable
• The fast pace often means you can’t visit one place in depth
• Usually more expensive than independent travel
• There may be limited time to interact with the local culture and community

Independent Travel

• Completely customizable
• Opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Can fully immerse yourself in the local culture
• Freedom to move at your own pace
• Flexibility to change your itinerary at any time
• More affordable
• Challenging to plan an efficient itinerary
• Transportation may be challenging or inefficient
• Booking and trip planning can be a hassle
• Popular sights may sell out well in advance
• If something goes wrong, you're on your own

Are organized tours more expensive than independent travel in Norway?

Organized tours average $595 per day in Norway, and are generally all-inclusive with one large payment. Independent trips usually average $117 (kr1,283) per day, and include individual payments to hotels, local transportation, food, and sightseeing. When compared, organized tours and independent trips each come with their own set of challenges and benefits. It's important to understand all aspects of both types of trips to make a fair comparison. You can see our thorough analysis of tour prices in Norway here .

Here are a few sample tours in Norway:

• Magical Fjord Adventure ($1,326) 7 days, 5 destinations more details
• Scenic Norway ($3,549) 10 days, 15 destinations more details
• Norwegian Fjords ($2,749) 11 days, 9 destinations more details
• Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights ($4,329) 5 days, 3 destinations more details
• Experience the Northern Lights ($7,859) 15 days, 11 destinations more details

More for Norway

If you're planning a trip to Norway, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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The Cost of Travel in Norway: A 2023 Budget Breakdown

Is Norway expensive? This Scandinavian country has a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries on the planet, but how accurate are the rumours?

Well, I hate to break it to you, but, uh, yeah, they’re pretty accurate.

Personally, I’ve travelled to a hundred countries over the past decade and Norway? It easily makes the top three when it comes to expensive countries.

It’s not all bad news, however, as I found tons of way to cut costs and find great value for money. Whether it’s taking the bus over the train, seeking out street food instead of eating in restaurants, or opting for comfortable guesthouses over high-end hotels, there are plenty of ways to keep on budget.

I’ve been keeping track of every single dollar I’ve spent over my past 11 years of travel, and I love distilling that information into detailed budget breakdowns. In these articles, I aim to share exactly how much I spent while travelling, covering budgets for all different kind of travellers, and ways in which you can lower your costs.

Today it’s Norway’s turn, so let’s get started.

The Cost of Accommodation in Norway

You can visit Norway on a whole range of budgets, from a €27 a night dorm bed in a hostel to an absolutely incredible €400-a-night snow hotel , the latter of which is a dream hotel of mine. One day I’ll get to stay there!

In this blog post, I’m going to be focusing on value . Because whether you’re travelling as a solo backpacker on a shoestring, as part of a couple on a mid-range budget, or as a family looking for a little luxury, value is the one thing you’re going to be looking for. That doesn’t mean cheap — it means offering up more than similarly-priced options.

There’s some seriously expensive accommodation up for grabs in Norway, so to start with, I’m going to cover the cheapest way to travel the country.

If you’re on the tightest of tight budgets, there are several options that’ll land you with free accommodation  while you’re in the country. Courchsurfing allows you to connect with locals by sleeping on spare sofas in their homes. It doesn’t cost a penny to do so and is a fantastic way to gain an insight into Norweigan daily life away from the tourists. There are 350,000 hosts in Norway, so there’s sure to be someone who’s right for you.

Housesitting is a more upmarket way to avoid paying for accommodation, as it’s aimed at the mid-range and luxury travellers. You’ll be looking after homes and pets while their owners are on holiday, and the houses can be extremely luxurious. This option works best if you don’t have fixed travel dates, as you’ll be agreeing to dates that the owners set.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you could take a look at WorldPackers in Norway , where you’ll be able to volunteer for locals in exchange for food and board. There are some seriously cool options available on the site, from helping to form a hiking trail in the wildness to lending a hand at building an eco-sanctuary in a forest. Readers of this site get a $10 discount for WorldPackers with the promo code neverendingfootsteps .

If you’re not looking to travel for free and just want a clean and comfortable room to sleep in, there are plenty of great options, too.

One of the most affordable ways to explore Norway is by staying in a hostel. I stayed in several over my first visit to the country and was impressed by the quality of the hostels, although there unfortunately isn’t much to choose from. Let’s look at the best-reviewed hostels in the country.

• The best hostel in Oslo is easily Cochs Pensjonat , where budget single rooms are priced at just €55 per person , and private doubles come in at €70 per night . As an added bonus, you’re not staying in a hostel! This is a clean and simple budget hotel that’s located in the heart of Oslo.
• In Bergen , you can’t get better than City Hostel Bergen , where the dorms are €27 per night and the private double rooms are €62 a night . In a town where most hostels are rated poorly, this well-reviewed spot is a no-brainer.
• You’ll likely be heading to Trondheim while you’re in Norway, and if so, I recommend City Living Sentrum Hotel , which has double rooms for €81 a night . It’s in a great location for sightseeing and spotlessly clean.
• Tromsø is home to Tromso CoCo Apartments , where dorms are priced at €25 a night . No wonder it’s the best-rated budget accommodation in town, with its great location, friendly staff, and access to an extremely well-equipped kitchen.
• What about Stavanger ? Cozee Central Apartments is the only place I’d consider staying. Not only is it inexpensive at €65 a night for a studio with double bed, but the beds are comfortable, the location perfect, and the surroundings peaceful.
• And finally, Ålesund , where you have to stay at Ålesund downtown loft room (double rooms are €61 a night ). It’s a cosy property, right in the heart of town, with a well-equipped kitchenette, which helps to save money on meals.

Overall, then, you can see that you can expect to spend around €30 a night  for dorms in Norway — but that they’re pretty hard to find in this country, and around €60-80 a night  for the cheapest double rooms in each destination.

Okay, but what if you’re not a budget traveller and just want to stay in a lovely, well-reviewed hotel or guesthouse that’s good value for money and has all the things you need from a place to lay your head? I’ve got you! For around €120-200 a night , you’ll be able to stay in an excellently-reviewed hotel, in a central location, with friendly staff.

My 2023 Accommodation Recommendations for Norway

When I’m travelling, I’m always conscious to book the absolute best accommodation out there — well, as long as it doesn’t amount to hundreds of dollars a night. I can easily spend several hours researching accommodation for every stop along my way, ensuring I’ve chosen the place in the best location with the friendliest staff, and the greatest value for money.

My biggest tip? When you head to Booking to find a hotel, ignore the results that are sorted under “Our Top Picks” — that’s a list of all of the hotels that pay Booking the highest commission, some of which have some pretty poor write-ups. Instead, opt to sort the properties by “Top Reviewed”. That way, you’ll be able to see which options genuinely have the best reviews.

But all that to say, when I was planning my trip to Norway, I put in the hard work so you don’t have to. Here’s where I recommend staying:

Oslo: Camillas Hus ( €252 a night for a double room) — Kick-off your Norway adventures with the best-rated hotel in town! Camillas Hus is an exceptional property, in the perfect location for getting your tourist on in Oslo. Staff are welcoming and eager to share how to make the most of your time in the city, and the designs of the room so tasteful. I love this place and can’t recommend it highly enough.

Bergen: Opus 16 ( €176 a night for a double room) — I’d never recommend that you stay in a place just to experience the breakfast, but I will say that the breakfast offerings at Opus 16 are gorgeous. It’s in a great location for exploring Bergen, close to the action but away from the noise, and there’s even a well-equipped gym, for those of you who try to keep up with the workouts while you’re away. Definitely consider this property if you’re going to be heading to Bergen.

Trondheim : Thon Hotel Nidaros ( €181 a night for a Queen room) — Excellent breakfast, excellent location, and excellent staff make this a, um, excellent place to stay! What I love most about this hotel is the fact that not only is breakfast complementary, but there’s also a complementary buffet in the evening — both delicious! What this means is that you can completely slash — if not eliminate — your food costs in Norway. That can easily save you €50+ a day! All in all, this is a great place in Trondheim for everyone.

Tromsø : BraMy Apartments ( €183 a night for a studio apartment) — The best part of this apartment? The fact that you can sit in your apartment and see the Northern Lights through the window! The apartment is clean and cosy, there’s a washer-dryer to use (always useful on holiday!), and a well-equipped kitchen. Throw in some extremely comfortable beds and you’ve got yourself a perfect stay in Tromsø!

Stavanger : Darby’s Inn ( €152 a night for a double room) — This wonderful B&B is the highest-rated property in town, and it’s easy to see why. It’s beautifully-decorated inside, the breakfast is tasty and filling, the location places you minutes from the centre of town, but on a quiet road, and, quite frankly: being there feels like being at home. When you take into account the relatively low price, there’s no reason to even look at staying anywhere else.

Ålesund : Hotel 1904 ( €183 a night for a double room) — Hotel 1904 is a boutique hotel that, as the name suggests, has been standing since 1904. You wouldn’t know it from the interior, however, as the clean, modern furnishings give off such a calming, contemporary vibe. The rooms, themselves, are enormous, the restaurant offers a great breakfast, and the staff are very accommodating. I wouldn’t recommend staying anywhere else in Ålesund.

The Cost of Transportation in Norway

When it comes to transportation in Norway, prepare for plenty of trains. Unusually, trains are more affordable (and more comfortable!) than buses in this country, so I’d always recommend riding the rails over anything else.

Norway is home to the famous Flåm railway, which is known as the most beautiful train ride in the world. The views are absolutely stunning on this route, as you’d expect, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. The train runs between Flåm and Myrdal — a distance of 20 kilometres — and it takes around two hours to complete the full round-trip. It costs €50 per person , which isn’t too bad for Norway.

But what about the non-scenic railway routes? Well, first of all, all train journeys in this country are picturesque, but the route between Oslo and Bergen is a particular favourite of mine. You can book train tickets through Vy in Norway — I paid €30 for the seven-hour train between Oslo and Bergen.

You can utilise the railways all over Norway, but if you’re planning on venturing north to see the Northern Lights, it would be worth checking out the cost of domestic flights. I use Skyscanner to compare the cost of airlines. An an example, to travel from Oslo to Tromsø, you can expect to pay around €40 for a direct flight. To travel overland, you’d either need to drive for 24 hours, or take the train to Bodø for 18 hours, then tackle eight hours by bus or 24 hours by ferry to get to Tromsø — you’d be looking at €100 for the pleasure, too. No question: you’d definitely want to fly.

Now, if you’re anything like me, you love a road trip. Having your own set of wheels can significantly enhance your travel experience. You’ll be able to stop off at beautiful viewpoints, take your time with getting from one destination to the next, and transport your belongings more easily from A to B. Driving in Norway is a pleasure, so if you do feel, uh, driven to hire a car, I definitely recommend going for it. Norwegians are safe and respectful drivers, so you won’t have to worry about safety and it’s all very easy. The only downside is that it can be tough to find a hotel with free parking and you could find yourself paying €25 a day to park elsewhere.

Every city in Norway is very walkable, so within the stops on your trip, you won’t need to worry about transportation costs. I walked absolutely everywhere — even in Oslo — and never once found it difficult or tiring to do so.

The Cost of Food in Norway

Norwegian food isn’t widely known or revered, which I believe is a huge oversight. Norway has tons of delicious dishes for travellers to sample, and not all of them will hurt your bank balance. I found myself eating a lot of street food while I was in Norway, actually, and could regularly snap up a meal for as little as €7 . Kebab shops and pizzerias offered meals for €10-12 per person.

With such an extensive coastline, you won’t be surprised to hear that Norwegian dishes are concentrated around the abundance of the country’s sea-life. The cold, long winters inspired locals to preserve their foods, to ensure the summer’s produce could sustain them year-round. What that means is that you should prepare yourself some of the best, and freshest, seafood on the planet. If you eat meat, you’ll be able to sample some truly unusual game, such as reindeer, moose, elk, and grouse. That’s not all: you’ll also find sweet berries, fluffy waffled, and crisp ciders, and some of the best cheeses in the world.

If you like a drink when you travel, can I suggest switching to water instead? Haha. Prices of beer, wine, and cocktails are high — think €10 for a pint of beer. Don’t expect to find a bottle of wine in a restaurant for less than €50 . Instead of drinking with your meal, head to the local supermarkets or off-licenses instead. There, you’ll find a half-litre bottle of beer for a much more reasonable €3.50 .

Vegetarians and vegans are going to struggle in Norway, although that probably isn’t a surprise for you to hear. This country is very focused on its seafood and meats, and if Norwegians aren’t eating meat, they’re opting for dairy instead. You’ll be totally fine in Oslo, and mostly fine in Bergen, as there are enough restaurants that cater to vegetarians and vegans in both towns. Be prepared for slim-pickings as you travel to small towns, expect to eat plenty of salads, and plan to regularly visit supermarkets to ensure you’re getting all your nutrients. The good news is that everybody in Norway speaks English, so you won’t have to worry about communication issues landing you with an unexpected slice of fish in your salads.

If you don’t have a vast budget to allocate to food in Norway, I recommend taking full advantage of the hotel breakfast. The vast majority of hotels and hostels in this country include breakfast in the price, and so you can use this to save on food. I’d usually eat as much as I could at the breakfast buffet, skip lunch, and then either head to a fast food restaurant for dinner, or venture to a supermarket to make my own mini-picnic with the local produce.

Breakfasts are large in Norway, offering up bread, yoghurt, cheeses, eggs, fresh and pickled fish, meats, and honey, all washed down with a cup of coffee or tea.

One of my favourite Norwegian lunch options is smørbrød, which is an open-top sandwich, with an enormous amount of fun toppings. You’ll see them all over the countries, in the windows of the local cafes and delis, usually priced at around €12 . Take a look out for the meal of the day in local restaurants. As in many European countries, you’ll be able to grab yourself a fish or meat dish, with fries, a drink, and a salad for as little as €16 .

I managed to average just €22 a day for food in Norway, simply by filling up with the hotel breakfasts, then opting for a cheaper meal for dinner (pizzas, stews, burgers, and fresh Atlantic cod.)

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Norway

Next, let’s take a look at how much you can expect to spend on activities in Norway.

If you’re going to be spending a few days in Oslo, I recommend picking up an Oslo Pass for €42 . As long as you’re planning on visiting a couple of attractions in the city, it will save you money. The pass gives you access to over 30 museums (most of which are around €10-15 to enter), as well as unlimited free travel on public transport within the city, whether it’s by metro, bus, tram, local trains, or even the ferry. You gain access to several walking tours across the city and entrance to the open-air public baths.

Most people opt to explore the fjords of Norway from the west coast of the country, but you can actually take a fantastic fjord tour from Oslo. This two-hour sightseeing cruise costs just €36 and takes you out to see the many islands and colourful houses that line the Oslo Fjord.

If you don’t decide to opt for the Oslo Pass, there are several museums and attractions that I highly recommend visiting:

• Holmenkollen ski jump: €15
• Oslo Viking Ship Museum: €10
• Akershus Fortress: free
• Munch Museum: €17
• Norwegian Museum of Cultural History: €17

As you travel to Bergen, you’ll find yourself in the perfect location for exploring Norway’s fjords. Dozens of tours leave from the town every single day, so you’ll be able to shop around and find a tour that’s right for you. If you want to book in advance, you’ll be looking at €97 for a three-hour cruise from Bergen to the picturesque Alversund Streams .

Moving further north, you’ll have a whole wealth of exciting activities to check out while you’re in Tromsø. This is Northern Lights country, with reindeers and dog sledding and ice domes galore. You’ll be up for €120 for an Aurora Borealis small-group tour , can try your hands at reindeer-sledding and feeding for €137 , and €189 for the extremely-popular self-drive husky dog-sledding adventure .

The Cost of Travel Insurance in Norway

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to the Norway. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Norway?

With all of that being said, it’s time to tally up all of my travel expenses in Norway, in order to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend while travelling in this wonderful country:

Accommodation:  €110 per day Transportation:  €9 per day Food:  €22 per day Activities:  €30 per day Total amount spent per day: €171

Are you planning a trip to Norway? Have any questions? Let me know in the comments below!

Further Reading on Norway 🇳🇴 27 Things To Do In Oslo, Norway ❄️ 25 Things To Do In Bergen, Norway

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Home » Europe » Norway » Is Norway Expensive? (Insider’s Guide for 2024)

Is Norway Expensive? (Insider’s Guide for 2024)

With its fjords and fishing villages, Norway is a legendary place to travel. It’s got it all: glaciers, mountains, epic hikes in national parks, midnight sun and the northern lights. Not to mention its environmental credentials and Viking heritage.

However, if you’re planning a trip to Norway you’ve probably been met with people saying “oohhh Norway is expensive. Better remortgage your house!” But is that really true? Is Norway expensive? or can you travel around the Scandinavian nation on a budget?

Well, the truth is that yes, Norway does often come with a hefty price tag attached. Alcohol, food and accommodation doesn’t come cheap. But that’s not to say you cannot travel on a budget.

That’s what this guide is here to help. If you’re visiting Norway but don’t want to pay a fortune for it, this guide covers all the finer details you need to make a budget for travelling to Norway a breeze.

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So, How Much Does a Trip to Norway Cost on Average?

Cost of flights to norway , price of accommodation in norway , cost of transport in norway , cost of food in norway , price of alcohol in norway , cost of attractions in norway , additional costs of travel in norway , some final tips for saving money in norway , so, is norway expensive, in fact.

The budget you have in mind for your Norway adventure will largely depend on different factors. First of all, there’s the obvious stuff – namely, the accommodation and flights – then there’s everything else: food, drink, souvenirs, sightseeing.

In this guide, I will be covering the following:

• How much it costs to get there
• Food prices
• Norway travel cost
• Prices of things to do and see
• Cost of sleeping arrangements

Note that the travel costs listed are estimates, and are subject to change. Prices are listed in US Dollars.

Norway uses the Norwegian Kroner (NOK). As of June 2022, the exchange rate is 1 USD = 9.81 NOK.

The general cost of a two-week trip to Norway has been summarised in the table below:

2 Weeks in Norway Travel Costs

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $338 – $789 USD for a roundtrip ticket.

How much you pay for your flight to Norway essentially depends on where you are in the world. If you’re flying from somewhere in Europe, you’ll be paying short-haul prices (i.e. not loads ). On the other hand, if you’re flying from North America, or Australia, getting to Norway is expensive indeed. 

It is possible to get cheaper flights to Norway if you change when you decide to travel. High season (June) generally sees prices peak, while low season (the winter months) can be more affordable for flights. The cheapest month to travel to Norway is January.

The busiest airport in Norway is Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL). It’s pretty far from the Norwegian capital though, being around 47 kilometres (29 miles) away. That’s a 23-minute train ride; you might want to factor this additional cost into your travel budget.

Wondering about the average cost of getting to Norway by plane? Here are some flight prices from several international air travel hubs:

• New York to Oslo Gardermoen Airport – 338 – 789 USD
• London to Oslo Gardermoen Airport: 10 – 99 GBP
• Sydney to Oslo Gardermoen Airport: 667 – 2024 AUD
• Vancouver to Oslo Gardermoen Airport: 685 – 1504 CAD

If you’re in London, you’ve lucked out on plane tickets to Norway. They can be super cheap . If you’re in Sydney though, these prices fluctuate pretty wildly, but generally, they’re hella expensive. It is possible to make it cheaper by option for a flight with multiple connections. It may take a lot longer, but it could also save you a good chunk of cash.

Sites like Skyscanner are a good place to start if you want to save money. Having the cheapest possible flights to a destination lined up in front of you definitely helps make an informed decision that’s best for your travel budget .

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $30 – $150 per night

When it comes to working out the answer to the question, is Norway expensive, one of the main things to look at is the price of accommodation. The Scandinavian nation has an image of being a modern country with a high cost of living, but that doesn’t mean your trip needs to break the bank – far from it.

There’s a wide selection of affordable accommodation that can be easily booked. From trendy budget-friendly city-centre hotels to tiny houses in rural mountains and affordable hostels, there’s something for everyone. 

Let’s take a look at some of the accommodation options on offer in Norway that will help you keep well within your travel budget. 

Hostels in Norway 

For those of you looking to travel to Norway on a shoestring budget, hostels in Norway are definitely the way to go. There’s a decent backpacking scene across the country with a good choice of modern hostels to choose from. Staying in a hostel can make a budget-friendly trip to Norway totally doable. 

The cheapest hostels in Norway start at around $30 per night.

Norway’s hostels aren’t always the trendiest in the world, but they are usually professionally run, clean and situated in convenient locations for sightseeing and epic outdoors adventures. Opting for a bunk in a dorm also means you get to use the hostel’s kitchen facilities, hang out in the hostel lounge and make a few friends along the way. 

If that seems like the kind of place you want to stay, here are a few of Norway’s top hostels for you to check out:

• HI Bergen Hostel Montana – Located surrounded by the mountains in Bergen, this affordable hostel (part of the Hostelling International chain) offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet included in the price. Organising excursions through the hostel helps you explore further.
• Voss Vandrarheim – This awesome hostel is situated right on the shores of Lake Voss. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to get stuck into outdoor activities during their Norway trip. Public transport is walkable from the hostel, making it extra convenient for independent travellers.
• Tromsø Activities Hostel – Situated in the historic centre of the northern city of Tromsø, this is an affordable accommodation option complete with kitchens, guest lounges and activities on offer throughout the year (think budget-friendly northern lights tours).

Airbnbs in Norway 

Another one of the best ways to travel to Norway cheaply is to book yourself into an Airbnb. There’s a huge choice of properties to select from, so it’s easier to find the ideal base to suit your budget (and style, let’s be honest).

In cities, you can expect contemporary apartments in cool local neighbourhoods, while in rural areas it’s all about cosy huts and cottages close to skiing and hiking on beautiful mountainsides.

The cheapest can be priced as low as $65-100.

Choosing to stay in an Airbnb in Norway is usually cheaper than booking into a hotel. Even if it’s not cheaper, having your own place also comes with the added bonus of self-catering amenities.

A kitchen means you can make your own meals which can save some serious dollars for you to spend elsewhere on your trip; you might even get your very own washing machine, too.  

Here’s just a small selection of the top Airbnbs in Norway to get you started…

• Charming Small House Holmenkollen – Everyone’s into tiny houses nowadays, but this tiny house is a historic cabin in the woods just outside Oslo. Surrounded by nature (literally: the roof has grass on it), it’s only a five-minute walk from here to the metro. The best of both worlds.
• Oslo Seafront Apartment – Also situated in the Norwegian capital, this Airbnb is a modern property on the fifth floor of an apartment block. It’s beautifully decorated, you get a sweeping harbour view from the balcony, and the central location is fantastic for exploring.
• Sjusjön Alpine Hill Apartment – If you like skiing, you’ll love this place. It’s a three-bedroom apartment set in an Alpine-style lodge. This well-equipped Airbnb is the perfect place to return for a chill after a day on the slopes or hiking the trails here in summer.

Hotels in Norway 

You’re probably trying to work out: is Norway expensive for hotels? Well, the thing is that hotels in Norway can be pretty expensive, but don’t worry. Yes, it’s true that there are some seriously stylish and pricey hotels in Norway, but there’s a decent choice of affordable hotels, too. 

Budget-friendly hotels in Norway start at around $70 per night. Not too bad.

Staying in a hotel definitely isn’t the cheapest way to travel in Norway, but with the cost also comes convenience . Hotels are usually found in the best locations, close to public transport and near to top tourist sights, especially if you want to stay near attractions in Oslo .

You also get to have hotel amenities at your disposal such as fitness centres, restaurants, bars and – of course – housekeeping. 

Thankfully, Norway has a few good-budget hotel chains that mean you can stay in a hotel even if your budget is modest.

These are the best options if you’re only going to be spending a few nights in one place, most likely a city, and want to make the most of your time. They’re compact, modern and in easy-to-reach locations. 

So, let’s take a look at some of the best cheap hotels in Norway:

• Citybox Bergen Danmarksplass – Part of a nationwide chain, the Bergen Citybox offers funky interiors, cool, clean bedrooms, and onsite amenities all at reasonable prices. It’s like a boutique hotel, but affordable for backpackers and budget travellers.
• Scandic Stavanger City – In the southwestern city of Stavanger you’ll find this cheap-and-cheerful hotel. Its list of amenities include a gym, an on-site shop and a bar, while the location – just a five-min walk from the centre of town – is ideal.
• The Verdandi Hotel – The Verdandi Hotel may be small, but the location couldn’t be better for exploring Oslo. Rooms are fresh and clean, and the staff are friendly. There’s also a good bar downstairs for drinks.

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ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $60.00 USD per day

It’s not exactly cheap to travel around Norway, but it can be done affordably. For the most part, it all depends on what mode of transport you go for. Specifically, your options will be trains and buses, with a few ferries, too. 

Public transport services are very good quality across the country, even if the distances can be super long. After all, from north to south, Norway measures up at a rather large 1,770 kilometres (1,100). Getting from A to B can be time-consuming, as you’d imagine.

But it’s all very modern. You can buy your train tickets online, or book buses through apps. The national government runs a lot of services, while local governments look after local/regional transport systems. There are a few private companies operating buses and ferries, too. 

To help you figure it all out, read on for more detail on how to get around once you’ve touched down in Norway.

Train Travel in Norway

The rail network in Norway is run by the government organisation, Vy . This railway system connects the main cities (including Oslo, Bodo, Bergen and Trondheim), and is efficient and well run.

You won’t run into too many problems while using it, and even if you do have to travel long distances, the Vy trains are comfortable. The carriages are spacious, and there’s enough room to stash your luggage.

On longer routes, you may even get to use sleeper trains. These are clean and a good alternative to flying; in some ways, since you save on the cost of accommodation for a night, sleeper trains can be a budget-friendly option.

However, train travel in Norway is expensive, and it can quickly eat up a sizeable chunk of your budget. Thankfully, there are ways around having to pay full price for tickets.

First of all, book in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper the fare (tickets can be bought up to 90 in advance of your trip). 

While there’s no government-run train pass you can get in Norway, what you can do is opt for the Norway Pass that’s offered by Interrail. The pass doesn’t have to be used on consecutive days (good deal), but must be used within one month.

Interrail Norway Pass prices for two different age groups are as follows:

• 3 days – $155 (12-27); $178 (28+)
• 4 days – $179 (12-27); $207 (28+)
• 5 days – $200 (12-27); $232 (28+)
• 6 days – $220 (12-27); $254 (28+)
• 8 days – $255 (12-27); $295 (28+)

If you know where you want to go, train travel can be pretty cost-effective in Norway – particularly if you do opt for the Interrail pass. Otherwise, you might be better off standing in line for the bus…

Bus Travel in Norway 

Buses are cheaper than trains in Norway. If you’re on a tight budget, and you plan on travelling around this Scandinavian nation, buses will be your principal mode of transport. In some places, buses will be the only public transport you can rely on, serving smaller towns, villages and remote areas of the country.

Like trains, long-distance public buses are also run by Vy, the government-owned transport company. There are a few private organisations that whisk people around Norway by bus, too. 

In high season, it’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance, but it’s normal to turn up and buy your ticket as you board the bus you want to travel on.

Buses are also more budget-friendly than trains because of the series of discounts that may apply to you. For example, there are cheaper fares for students, senior citizens, children and families.

A good example of long-distance travel by bus in Norway is the Lavprisekspressen service that takes you from Oslo to Stavanger. It’s a long journey, around eight hours forty-five minutes, and costs either $10 for a night bus, or $62 for daytime service.

As well as (sometimes) being pricey, buses also have limitations. Even though the network is efficient, there are a few inconveniences that you may come up against using buses in Norway, e.g. notably reduced services outside of high season, on weekends and public holidays.

Ferry travel in Norway

Norway has an uber-long coastline, and as such there’s a whole load of ferry services that run from place to place across the nation. Not only that, but there are also numerous connections by sea to a selection of European destinations, including daily ferries to Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark.

Travellers most often use Norway’s selection of boats and ferries to explore the epic fjords. Sometimes even getting a public, run-of-the-mill ferry (as opposed to a tour), can offer up stunning vistas in addition to getting you where you want to be.

In fact, in the fjords and the far north of the country, ferry services are the way to get around. Boat services in these more rugged parts of Norway are the quickest way to get around, given the roundabout routes the roads take.

One particularly famous (but very expensive) ferry route you should know about is the Hurtigruten. This travels from Kirkenes to Bergen, calling at 34 ports along the way. You can book individual or multiple legs, depending on where you want to go.

Prices for ferry travel and express boats vary, depending on the route and time of year. Norway can be expensive for boat journeys in high season, plus it can be busy. The key thing is to balance out convenience with experience; I figured that if I can get essentially a fjord tour while also getting from A to B, then ferries win every time.

Getting Around Cities in Norway

Norway’s cities are well connected by public transport. Each municipality controls its own public transport. Each location tends to have its own specific app, website, and ticketing prices.

In the capital, for example, Oslo’s public transport is run by Ruter. The network includes a metro (T-bane), tram, bus and ferries. You can download an app to help you plan your journey and buy tickets.

But is Norway expensive for city explorations? Not really. For example, in Oslo you can buy a 24-hour, two-zone ticket for $11 (that covers all modes of transport on the network). 

An extra money-saving tip for travelling around the capital is to snap up an Oslo Pass . Not only does this give you free access to many of the city’s museums, it also gives you free transport on zones 1 and 2. Basic costs for the Oslo Pass are as follows:

• 24 hours – $45
• 48 hours – $67
• 72 hours – $83

In other cities and towns in Norway, public buses make up a large portion of the public transport. In Trondheim, the public transport network is called AtB, while in Bergen it’s Skyss.

Most places have a main bus station with tourist information offices nearby. Tickets can be bought on board, or from kiosks. Like Oslo, other municipalities also offer travel cards and passes to make the most of your trip.

One bonus of travelling in Norway’s towns is that bus routes usually connect with other modes of transport; e.g. you can get off a ferry and straight onto a bus that’s been scheduled especially.

Renting a Car in Norway 

Is Norway an expensive place to rent a car and drive around? Well, like its public transport and accommodation, yes it is. It won’t exactly break the bank if you’re only doing a small stint of driving, but prices can mount up over time. 

However, hiring a car in Norway is pretty much the only way to explore the country’s most remote locations. The other alternative would be to hire a driver, which makes renting a car look positively budget-friendly.

Having your own wheels also means you have freedom and flexibility to have one epic road trip in Norway . But there are definitely a few things to consider before you get behind the wheel. 

Firstly, there’s time: tackling the nation’s fjords and car ferries can take a lot longer than you think. Then there are the winter conditions. These can be challenging for those who aren’t used to driving on roads with ice and snow. Roads can often be completely closed altogether.

When it comes to cost, the price of car hire is relatively expensive in Norway. Those aged under 25 will usually have to pay more to hire a car, too. There’s also the cost of tolls (there are a whole bunch of toll stations) and ferries to factor in to your budget.

Finally, the cost of fuel in Norway is high. There’s no getting around that. The more remote the area, the more expensive it gets.

In short, unless you really want to drive, renting a car in Norway is not budget-friendly. You can make it cheaper if you’re renting for a long period of time, as the car hire rate usually drops. The average cost per day of hiring a car in Norway is around $97.

Want to save some cash and explore Norway by rental car? Use rentalcar.com to find the best deal possible. There are some great prices on the site and they aren’t difficult to find.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $30-$50 USD per day

People don’t tend to know much about the Norwegian food scene outside of gastronomic hotspots like Oslo. That’s not exactly an unfair assessment, though: Norway isn’t exactly famed for its cuisine. 

However, there’s a whole range of traditional treats on offer across the country, as well as more modern marvels to sample. It’s a nation of varied landscapes, with homegrown ingredients to match. Expect cheese, seafood and plenty of meat.

Here are some Norwegian delights that you should try on your travels here: 

• Kjøttkaker – This common dish is a winter warmer that will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Kjøttkaker is meatballs swimming in gravy with a side of boiled potatoes and cabbage. A staple that you’ll find everywhere: cafes, restaurants, people’s houses. It costs around $15.
• Smørbrød – A Scandi classic. This is an open-faced sandwich: rye bread topped with a variety of ingredients, including cold cuts, fish and other tasty mixtures. Usually priced around $13-14.
• Raspeball – These epic potato dumplings are a cocktail of mashed spuds and flour. They’re a perfect stodgy accompaniment to the fatty cuts of mutton (or bacon) they usually get served with. A hearty dish for winter. It costs around $14.

Norway is famously not cheap, and as you can see, that includes food. But you can still keep costs low. Here are a few pointers to keep within your daily budget…

• Seek out a lunch deal – Most cities and towns feature kafeterias (cheap cafes, basically) where lunch deals are king. You can usually get a good-sized, hearty lunch for anywhere between $15-20. This often includes a drink, a main dish and a side.
• Pack a picnic – It might not be gourmet, but if you have your own kitchen to use, use it . Stock up on basics at the supermarket (more on these later), make sandwiches, take them with you when you’re out exploring. Not glamorous, but the scenery more than makes up for it.
• Opt for accommodation with breakfast – This is a much more affordable way to start the day than either having to stock your own cupboards or searching out a breakfast spot yourself. Hotels often feature buffet breakfasts, so I recommend stocking up!

Where to Eat Cheaply in Norway 

Norway is expensive for food – relatively, at least – but it’s all about being smart with your money. That means choosing where you eat, and what you eat, wisely. Here are some more ways that you can keep your stomach (and taste buds) happy while you’re in Norway without breaking the bank too much…

• Head to kiosks – In essence, kiosks are super handy fast-food joints. You can find these hole-in-the-wall options in most towns and cities. They serve takeaway snacks that include hot dogs and pizzas. A lunch costs around $10 from one of these.
• Shop at local markets – Even in the most remote villages, you’ll usually find a fish market where you can find not only fresh fish, but also freshly cooked fish. They’re deliciously grilled and served at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at a tourist joint. And it’s a local experience, too. That’s if you like fish, of course. 
• Kick back at cafes – Get a good cup of coffee and a pastry to go alongside (or a sandwich) for around $5-6. For some reason, Norwegian coffee is really good, so I recommend making the most of the country’s cafes where you can.

But there are always things you can do to make your gastronomic journey in Norway even cheaper . By that, I mean going to the supermarket. Here are two of the cheapest supermarkets in the land…

• Kiwi – Big supermarket chain with hundreds of discount stores; you’ll see it all over the place. It’s pretty much the place to go for cheap groceries in Norway. 
• REMA 1000 – Also with hundreds of stores across Norway, REMA 1000 is inspired by German supermarket chain Aldi (also cheap). There’s a wide product range and cheap prices.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $0-$25 USD per day

Norway is notoriously expensive when it comes to alcohol. It’s very heavily taxed, thanks to (almost) all alcohol in the country being sold by the government monopoly, Vinmonopolet. Wines, strong beers and spirits – anything over 4.75% ABV – are controlled by this state-run entity.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t find it anywhere. Quite the opposite: you can find all sorts of alcohol being sold at bars, restaurants, cafes and cocktail bars across the nation. And if you do want to drink, you’ll have to for it.

On the whole, 500ml of beer at one of these establishments costs upwards of $9; the cost of a glass of wine starts at around $8. Depending on where exactly you’re drinking (not just city, but type of establishment), prices can be even higher.

Norway is one of the most expensive countries in Europe for alcohol, with prices 120% above the average.

Even so, there are a few tipples worth trying if you’re into sampling local drinks…

• Aquavit  – This distilled vodka-like spirit is made from potatoes. It’s served ice cold in small glasses. Very bitter and strong (at least 37.5% ABV).
• Craft beer – Norway may be famous for Carlsberg and a selection of other lager-like beers, but in recent years modern craft breweries have been making waves. A notable example is Ægir microbrewery, one of the most popular in the country.

If you want to have a drink, but you don’t feel like coughing up for the sometimes outrageous prices charged at bars and restaurants, then you’ll be heading to the supermarket.

Weaker beers and other low-ABV alcohol can be brought here relatively cheaply. Otherwise, stronger alcohol can only be purchased from the state-run Vinmonopolet; here a bottle of wine costs around $8. Much cheaper. 

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0-$200 USD per day

Norway is a literal smorgasbord (or should I say smørbrød?) of nature, culture and history. In the cities, it’s all about wandering around checking out architecture and museums, centuries-old cathedrals and medieval backstreets. 

Most art galleries have free admission, as do museums, so you won’t have to worry too much about factoring the cost of attractions into your budget. Plus there are things like the Oslo Pass (which I mentioned earlier), which gives you free entry to a bunch of attractions.

While the attractions themselves aren’t too pricey, sometimes simply being in cities in Norway is expensive. That’s where the country’s breath-taking nature comes in.

From its fjords to the epic hiking in warmer weather, Norway has a whole lot going on for outdoorsy people who love to get out and explore countrysides and coastlines. The good thing about Norway is, pretty much no matter where you go, you’ll never be too far from some amazing hiking.

But if you’re here to ski or snowboard, prepare to fork out for the privilege. Per day, ski passes cost an average of approximately $52. They can be cheaper, but they’re very often more expensive. Usually, a week’s ski pass gives you a 10-20% discount.

Here are some extra tips to help you see attractions in Norway while safely saving those pennies…

• Get around by bike – In Oslo and other cities in Norway, the town centres are the domain of bicycles. There are plenty of bike lanes, bike-sharing schemes and bike rental places to use. This means getting around for a nominal fee, and getting to travel further around the city, and seeing more stuff as a result.
• Don’t spend money – That may sound obvious, but it really is that simple. Hiking is free, exploring historic neighbourhoods is free, and taking yourself on urban art walks is free. There are plenty of things to do in Norway that don’t involve spending cash. You’ve just got to do your research.

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So your budget for travelling around Norway is shaping up to be pretty comprehensive so far. You’ve got your flights sorted, accommodation booked, the cost of food and drink factored in, and you know all about how much it costs to get around the country.

One last thing to remember is unexpected costs . This can be anything from luggage storage to the cost of souvenirs, or even cleaning supplies for your Airbnb. The point is, it’s good to be prepared just in case you need to spend more money. Around 10% of your budget should do.

There’s also…

Tipping in Norway 

Tipping isn’t that much of a thing in Norway. It’s not like the US, where tipping up to 20% is expected of customers. Instead, tips are usually included in restaurant (and other) bills as gratuity charges.

If a service charge isn’t included in your restaurant bill, and you want to show your appreciation, then feel free to leave a tip; around 10-15% is acceptable.

In bars and pubs, however, tipping is not the done thing. If you really want to show thanks for good service, then simply round up to the nearest 10 kroner.

At hotels and other tourist accommodation options, tipping is also not expected. But you can offer hotel workers like porters and room service staff a tip. It’s discretionary and not expected.

For other services, like taxis, you can round up the fare, or give around 20 kroner ($2) for a particularly helpful or friendly driver. You can also give a discretionary tip to your tour guide if you feel like it.

In short, tipping in Norway depends on the customer, not the establishment. If you want to tip, go ahead, but it’s not something you desperately need to factor into your budget.

Get Travel Insurance for Norway 

Travel insurance isn’t exactly the most exciting thing in the world, but it sure can be useful. Nobody knows what’s around the corner (pandemic, anyone?), so it’s a sensible idea to be prepared for anything.

Now, travel insurance isn’t a cure-all, definitely not, but it is an extra cushion of cash for those just-in-case scenarios. Maybe you need another night at a hotel, maybe you lose your bank card – whatever. At the very least, it’s worth thinking about.

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Need more tips? Why not. Here are yet more top ways to make travel to Norway less expensive…

• Visit in low season – Flights, transport and accommodation get pretty expensive in Norway when it’s high season (May to July). With that in mind, simply travel there in winter. It’s cheaper and popular attractions won’t be so busy. Spring or autumn also work for nicer weather.
• Keep an eye on how much spending money you use each day and set a daily budget for yourself:  If you blow the budget on a Full Moon party one day, try and do some activities in the following days that keep you under budget.
• Hit up the national parks – Norway’s national parks are incredibly beautiful. They’re free to enter and provide a stunning wilderness to explore or just soak up from some well-placed accommodation. Well worth your time.
• Try out camping – Not just in national parks, but near beaches (yes, they exist in Norway) and other natural spots, you’ll find campsites. Ranging from very basic to luxurious, the thousands of campsites are way cheaper than staying in a hotel or guesthouse.
• Go self-catering – Self-catering is a good option for two reasons. 1) It’s cheaper accommodation anyway. 2) You can make your own food. It’s not like being in the Mediterranean, where food is a definitive part of the culture, so buying your own groceries and cooking them up is the perfect way to travel to Norway on a budget.
• Earn money while you travel:  Teaching English while traveling  is a great way to make ends meet!
• Watch the locals when it comes to food and purchases:  Take a look and see what they are paying for certain items and then follow suit.
• Have a water bottle :   Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. If you’re worried about potable water, get a filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, which filters out 99% of viruses and bacteria.

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Well, yes: Norway is expensive. There’s no beating around the bush, really. But that doesn’t mean that your trip has to be super expensive. Don’t be put off by the expensive alcohol and the cost of renting a car – and all the rest.

There are plenty of ways to make a trip to Norway decently affordable. You may have to make some sacrifices (i.e. not eating out and definitely not drinking in cocktail bars), but in exchange you’ll get to see so much more of a country that’s got so much to offer. 

What we think the average daily budget for Norway should be:

If you keep things cheap, a good budget for Norway can range between $100 to $170 USD per day (give or take a big hit every now and then for train travel).

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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Popular categories, cost of travel in norway: one week budget breakdown.

By: Charlotte · Last updated 21. March 2024 · In: Norway , Travel

Are you wondering how much one week in Norway costs? While undeniably beautiful, Norway is notorious for being one of the most expensive countries in the world. So is it even possible to plan a budget-friendly trip to Norway?

My readers often ask me: “ How much money should I budget for 7 days in Norway? “. And I never know what to answer, because we probably have very different ideas of what a budget is.

What you end up spending during a week in Norway will, of course, depend on what kind of traveler you are and what you need to be comfortable. I can, however, give you an idea of how much I spent on an awesome 7-day road trip from Oslo to Lofoten.

Let’s dive into a breakdown of what 7 days of travel in Norway can cost.

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Accommodation budget

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I was traveling with my friend but all the prices are per person and in Norwegian Kroner. We went on this trip in September and started out from our home in Larvik, a city 2 hours south of Oslo.

As of December 2023 1 USD = 11 NOK. The Norwegian Krone is currently weak against the Dollar and Euro, so this is a good time to experience Norway.

Total  3497 kr. / $366 for 7 nights – Average  500 kr . per night per person.

Bring a tent and accommodation will be totally free! Plus you’ll get even closer to our gorgeous nature. Norway’s “freedom to roam law” (allemannsretten) gives you the right to hike and camp on uncultivated land as long as you leave no trace. Your tent just has to be at least 150 meters from the landowner’s house or cabin.

If you want to camp in the same place for more than 2 days, you have to get permission from the landowner. This does, however, not apply when you camp in the mountains and remote areas.‍

If you want to be a little more comfortable, like having access to an indoor toilet and showers, then pitching your tent at a campsite might be your best option. You’ll have to pay a fee, but it will still be cheaper than a hotel room. And if you don’t have a tent then a lot of campgrounds have small cabins you can stay in.

Hotels are definitely not cheap but they aren’t as expensive as you might think. Nice hotels in Norway are about how much you would expect to pay for a nice hotel in a lot of places in Western Europe. They average around $150 a night.

During this trip, we mixed it up between hotels and campsite cabins. If we were to travel in Norway for a longer period of time we would definitely bring a tent.

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Total  1967 kr. / $206 for 7 days – Average  281 kr . per night per person.

As I mentioned earlier, dining out in Norway can be very expensive. So to save money I always try to buy ingredients from a grocery store and make our own food at least once a day. Generic store brands like “First Price” and “REMA 1000” are cheaper than name brands but often just as good.

We also used the free Too Good To Go app once to save on food. It allows you to purchase unsold food from restaurants and grocery stores at the end of the day, to prevent it from being thrown away. For only 49 kr. we got 10 chicken wings, one portion of lasagne, bread and assorted pastries. It’s not always the healthiest food but definitely cheap.

In Norway we also have these things called “rasteplass”, rest stops, often in scenic locations, where there are restrooms, tables, and grills to use. So buy some inexpensive charcoal at the store and bring it with you in your car. Upcoming rest stops are marked with blue and white signs with a tree and a table.

And remember to bring reusable water bottles as you can refill them everywhere, even from streams and lakes. Tapwater in Norway is just as good as bottled water so there’s no reason to waste money or plastic.

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Total  1770 kr. / $180 for 7 days – Average  253 kr . per night per person.

Norway is an incredibly beautiful country, so I bet there are many places on your Norway bucket list . But remember that some of the best things to do in Norway are free!

Okay, you could, of course, spend a lot of money on a fjord cruise or guided tour and it would definitely be worth it. A fun fact about Norway is that we have over 1100 fjords, so definitely enjoy and explore them.

But you can also go hiking from almost any city and see the most breathtaking views, waterfalls, mountains and beaches. All for free. So we only bought two tickets this time, one museum and the skylift in Loen which we just had to try.

Remember to book tickets for activities online in advance if possible, things often get booked in Norway, especially during the summer season.

Travel Norway by train

Norway is home to the famous Flåm railway, which is known as the most beautiful train ride in the world. And I couldn’t agree more. The train runs for 20 kilometers between Flåm and Myrdal, a roundtrip that takes around two hours to complete.

You can also take the train for longer distances, like from Oslo to Bergen or Oslo to Trondheim. I recommend planning and booking all train journeys in Norway through the  Vy app. You can often save money by booking your tickets at least a few days in advance.

It is easy to travel by train all over Norway, but if you’re planning on going from the south to the north to see the Northern Lights, I recommend checking the price for domestic flights. Especially if you’re limited on time.

Rental cars

Since we live in Norway we used our own car on this trip so you have to add car rental on top of the total I list below. You can rent a decent car for around 4000 kr. a week. I highly recommend renting a car to get the most out of our beautiful country. Pro tip: I always rent through Discover Cars , a comparison site that covers 10,000 destinations worldwide.

You’re going to stop everywhere to just marvel at the views and take hundreds of photos, trust me! No matter how many times I go on road trips in Norway I’m still amazed by the incredible scenery.

I have not included tollroad charges in the total either because I can’t remember exactly how much it was. I’m guessing somewhere around 400kr, we pay it once a month.

Most rental cars in Norway have an Autopass which means toll is automatically collected when you pass a toll station. Some car rentals have toll included in the price and some will charge your credit card after you return the car.

🚗 Check price and availability here >> Rent a car in Norway through DiscoverCars

Total  118 kr. / $12

I rarely go shopping when traveling in Norway as I try to spend money on experiences rather than things. This time I only got a toothbrush and some hairspray because I forgot mine as usual.

And then I bought a postcard in Geiranger as a souvenir. I collect postcards and always get at least one whenever I travel.

In total, I spent 7247 kr. / $759 on 7 days and 7 nights in Norway.

This was half of a 2-week trip but our way back home was much less interesting and we spent almost exactly the same so I didn’t want to bore you with too many details.

With a rental car , the total cost of travel in Norway for one week would be around 9247 kr. per person.

Daily Norway budget breakdown

Accommodation: Rondane Høyfjellshotell 450 kr. per person in a small double room

Food:  Too Good To Go 25 kr. per person (bought the day before, we got enough food for 2 meals for 2 people) – 0.5l Pepsi Max 27 kr. – Dinner with a soft drink at the hotel 349 kr.

Transport: Gas 320 kr. per person

Shopping: Toothbrush 29 kr. – Hairspray 69 kr.

Daily cost: 1217 kr.

Accommodation: Nesset Fjordcamping 400kr per person in basic double room

Food:  Breakfast included in the hotel price – For lunch we had the obligatory road trip cheese and bacon sausage from a gas station 49 kr. (trust me, it’s delicious) – Chicken salad and a diet coke for dinner in Geiranger 195kr.

Activities: Loen Skylift 440 kr.

Shopping : A postcard 20 kr.

Daily cost: 1104 kr.

Accommodation: Gjerdset Turistsenter 400 kr. per person in a cabin with private bathroom.

Food:  Bread, cheese, fruit and juice from the grocery store for breakfast and lunch 90 kr. – Dinner 139 kr. per person for a large pizza and soft drink.

Transport: Eidsdal-Linge ferry 87 kr.

Daily cost: 716 kr.

Accommodation: Quality Hotel Skifer in Oppdal 545 kr. per person in a double room

Food:  Smoothies and fruit from a grocery store for breakfast 37 kr. – Take out fried chicken in sweet and sour sauce from a Chinese restaurant 234 kr. – Pepsi Max and energy bar from a grocery store 60 kr .

Transport: Gas 360 kr. per person

Daily cost: 1236 kr.

Accommodation: Scandic Stiklestad 775 kr . per person in a double room.

Food:  Buffet breakfast included in the hotel price – Tomato and mozzarella sandwich and juice for lunch at a bakery 95kr. – Sushi buffet at Sabrura for dinner 199 kr.

Transport : Parking in Trondheim 60 kr.

Daily cost: 1129 kr.

Accommodation: Vestvatn Arctic Cabins 525 kr. per person in a private cabin

Food:  Buffet breakfast included in the hotel price – Gas station sausage with soft drink again for lunch 65 kr. (it’s a big thing in Norway) – Pasta for dinner made in the cabin, ingredients 75 kr. per person.

Transport: Gas 280 kr. per person

Daily cost: 945 kr.

Accommodation: Skårungen Hotel, Cabins & Camping 402 kr. per person in a double room

Food:  Smoothies and fruit from a grocery store for breakfast 40 kr. – Takeout spring rolls for lunch 65 kr. – Póke Bowl and soft drink for dinner at Du Verden in Lofoten 223 kr.

Activities: Lofotr Viking Museum 170 kr.

Daily cost: 900 kr.

• Like with any other destination, you should travel during the off-peak season to find lower prices on accommodations and activities. June and September are my favorite months to travel in Norway.
• Consider staying at campgrounds instead of hotels. You can often rent a cabin for half the price of a hotel. Or even better, bring a tent.
• Take advantage of the extensive network of public transportation to save on rental car costs. You can easily travel most of the country by train, though you won’t have as much freedom to go off the beaten path. Download the Vy app to plan your rides. All major cities have their own apps for public transportation, where you can buy, 24-hour, 7-day, and 1-month passes.
• Opt for self-catering accommodations to prepare your own meals and save on dining expenses. Buy food from generic brands such as First Price, Eldorado and REMA 100.
• Take advantage of the incredible nature in Norway and go for low-cost activities such as hiking, visiting public parks, and our beautiful Norwegian beaches .
• Purchase a city pass or attraction pass to save on entrance fees to popular tourist sites. Most large cities have them, and some museums work together so always ask for combination tickets.
• Bring reusable water bottles to refill from tap water, which is safe to drink in Norway.
• Take advantage of free walking tours to learn about the city and its history without spending money on guided tours.
• Look for discount cards or coupons for restaurants, attractions, and transportation. And use apps like Too Good To Go.

FAQs about travel in Norway

The best time to travel in Norway is during the shoulder season of May/June and September. That’s when the weather is mostly sunny but with fewer crowds.

For those interested in witnessing the stunning Northern Lights, the best time to visit is during the winter months, from late September to late March.

Summer, particularly from June to August, is ideal for exploring the fjords, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing the midnight sun in the northern regions. Just keep in mind that this is also the high season when it gets crazily crowded in popular tourist destinations such as Geiranger and the Lofoten Islands.

Norway is known to be relatively expensive for tourists compared to many other destinations. The cost of accommodation, dining, and transportation can be higher than in most other countries.

As mentioned above, I spent just over 9000 kr. during one week traveling from Oslo to Lofoten. But if you follow the tips above, you can keep the travel costs down even more. I splurged on some hotels, so I could have saved more if I only stayed at campsites.

And if you come from the US, UK or EU, you should take advantage of the current weak Norwegian Krone and get that trip booked.

Norway is so worth it. It truly is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and traveling here is definitely an unforgettable experience .

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Norway. Most businesses, including restaurants, hotels, shops, and tourist attractions, readily accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express. It is common for Norwegians to use cards for everyday transactions, and contactless payment methods are also prevalent.

However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, as well as for transactions in more remote areas. Like if you want to buy waffles during a hike or something to drink from a kiosk at the beach.

It’s relatively easy to travel around Norway without speaking Norwegian, as many Norwegians are fluent in English. Signs, menus, and transportation information are often available in English as well.

In larger cities and popular tourist destinations, you’ll find that most people working in the tourism industry speak English. However, in more remote or rural areas, you may encounter fewer English speakers among the older generation.

If you take the time to learn a few words and phrases in Norwegian , people really appreciate the effort. It’s a great icebreaker!

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About Charlotte

Charlotte is the passionate traveler and online business coach behind Sunshine Seeker. She started working as a content creator on Instagram in 2014, before social media was even a thing, and as a travel blogger in 2015. Over the past 14 years she has explored 45+ countries and lived in Oslo, Kraków, Bali and Lombok. Every month she helps more than 50,000 people plan their adventures and learn how to create more freedom by working online.

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21. November 2020 at 01:49

Lovely post! Very helpful – it looks like there are some very budget-friendly ways to travel in Norway, which I’m surprised by. I’m mostly Swedish but have never been, and always assumed that visiting Scandinavia would be a massively expensive trip. Great tips, seriously stuff I never would have though of. Thanks for sharing!

22. November 2020 at 00:04

I’m so happy you found it helpful! Hopefully, you get to visit one day soon. Thanks for stopping by, Carley 😀

21. November 2020 at 02:38

This is a really helpful guide. I’ve always wanted to go to Norway but the more I read about the things I want to see I also see the high costs of things there. Therefore other places always become higher on my list. One day I really just need to get myself to Norway, and this really helps set a budget

22. November 2020 at 00:50

Thanks, Emma! I’m happy to hear that 🙂 I hope you get to go one day. Norway is definitely expensive but also very worth it!

21. November 2020 at 19:22

Great breakdown, thanks for this, now I have an idea, how much money we’ll need. 🙂

22. November 2020 at 02:53

Thanks for stopping by, Simona 🙂

21. November 2020 at 19:31

What a great post! Costs look very reasonable there. I’d love to spend some time there one of these days. It looks like such a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing all these details.

22. November 2020 at 03:02

Thank you so much, Nancy! I hope you get to visit Norway one day soon, it’s absolutely beautiful here 🙂

21. November 2020 at 19:33

I have heard that Norway is an expensive country to travel to. It’s great that you are sharing more about the budget to wander around this country! Thanks for giving us all the info!

22. November 2020 at 03:04

Thanks, Ophelie 🙂 I’m happy you found it useful and I hope you get to visit Norway one day!

22. November 2020 at 02:45

Wow I had no idea Norway was such an expensive place for travelers. You have listed down every expense so accurately and practically, making this a very useful guide for anyone planning a trip to Norway.

22. November 2020 at 03:06

Thank you, Shalzmojo 🙂 Yes, Norway is expensive but with a little bit of effort, it’s definitely possible to plan a budget trip here!

4. April 2024 at 20:40

As someone who loves exploring new destinations on a budget, I found this breakdown of travel costs in Norway incredibly insightful. It’s always helpful to see real-life examples of how expenses can add up during a trip!

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Is Norway expensive to visit? Here’s everything you need to know

Planning a trip to Norway? Concerned that Norway is expensive to visit? Here’s a breakdown of our Norway road trip, including food and travel costs, plus our route, map, toll costs, ferry costs, expenses, how much to spend on food and average daily budget for Norway.

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Is Norway expensive to visit?

As soon as we announced our plans to take our motorhome to Norway, we were swamped by people sucking in their breath and looking pityingly at us while saying “Norway huh? Isn’t Norway expensive to visit? You’re going to need a second mortgage…”

I’ll be honest- it made us a little concerned. Just how much was this road trip going to cost?!

But now that we’ve done our motorhome tour of Norway , what’s the verdict? Is that true? Is Norway expensive to visit?

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How much does it cost to go to Norway?

Well, the results are in! We have now received and reviewed all the bank accounts,  credit card statements and toll fees.

Basically, I’ve spent the last two weeks buried in paperwork, trying to figure out how much our little Norway road trip itinerary cost us.

This has literally been me… and people wonder what I do all day! Ha!

Before we dive in, here are some things to know about our trip to Norway, so you can balance it against how you plan to travel:

• We visited Norway in a motorhome and drove from the UK to Norway
• We spent just over 2 weeks actually in Norway, the rest was spent motorhoming in Germany , Holland and Denmark
• These costs only cover our time in Norway, not the costs to travel there and back from the UK. I’ve included the car ferry to Norway from Denmark and the costs of getting back into Denmark through Sweden and crossing the famous bridges.
• Our Motorhome was 7.8m long and OVER 3.5 tonnes. If you can avoid this, do- it makes the tolls sooooo much cheaper! (Read more about the Pros and Cons of having a motorhome over 3.5 tonnes)
• We also towed a trailer with two big motorbikes on it. As all the ferries in Norway are based on length (no sniggering, thank you!) this made our costs much more expensive than a smaller van or a car.
• We deliberately stocked up and brought food with us from the UK- only buying necessities as we needed them. Having said that, we considered the trip a holiday, so if we wanted a little treat or a meal out, we bought it. Bear in mind that now, post Brexit , it’s not possible to take so much food with you.
• We drove a lot during those two weeks-  honestly more than we should have – we were exhausted when we got home. But there are just so many beautiful places to see in Southern Norway .
• I added up the expenses in NOK (Norwegian currency) and exchanged them into GBP at today’s exchange rate. I’ve included the NOK costs below, but obviously, the exchange rate will fluctuate with time.

Watch the video of our Norway motorhome trip

Here’s a video of the speech I gave at the NEC Camping, Caravan and Motorhome show about taking your motorhome or van to Norway.

We hope you found the video useful. If you did, we’d love it if you followed us on Youtube . New videos with tips for motorhoming and campervanning in the UK and Europe are released weekly.

Our Norway Road Trip Route Map

Here’s a map of the route we took in Norway. This route took us just over 2 weeks. You can see it in more detail here.

As a guide, it took us 2 days to drive back from near Kristiansund to the Swedish border, then a further two days to get back to the UK!

Which route is cheapest in Norway?

The route through the centre of Norway is MUCH quicker, because there are no ferries… but there are more tolls, so it probably costs about the same.

Guess it depends whether you want to take the scenic route or the quick route.

However, if your goal is to get up to the top of Norway, you’ll probably find it cheapest to drive up through Sweden (where there are far fewer tolls).

Car Ferry from Denmark to Norway

We chose to take the car ferry from Denmark to Norway with a company called Colorline and crossed from Hirtshals- Kristiansand. This cost us £409.56 (yep, that’s one way!)

You can read more about that (and watch the video) HERE

There are plenty of other ferry routes but this one is probably the cheapest.

There’s now also a ferry from Holland to Norway (with HollandNorwaylines) which is longer and quite expensive. You also need to book far in advance to get a space.

How much does it cost to tour Norway – Internal Ferry costs

There are small car ferries all over Norway- just think of them as part of the road network. You don’t have to book these small ferries in advance, just turn up and use them.

Here’s a list of all the ferries we used and how much they cost us. Remember we had a 7.5m motorhome (our Swift 496) with a 2m trailer towing the bikes , and I believe the price break is 6-8m, then 8-10m, so we were in the most expensive category.

• Ferry from Luavika to Oanes 358NOK
• Ferry from Puntnes (hjelmeland) – Nesvik on 13 – 430NOK
• Ferry Skanevik- Utaker (48) – 438nok
• Ferry Arsnes- Gjermundshamn (DONT PANIC- it goes to the island Varoldsoyna first!!) – 534NOK
• Ferry Fornes -Mannheller (route 5) – 384NOK
• Ferry Stranda – Liabygda – 412NOK
• Ferry E39 Vestnes- Molde – 602NOK
• Ferry E39 Halsa- Kanestraum – 438 NOK

TOTAL = 3596 NOK = £333.44

Is Norway Expensive to visit- Tolls

Before we left for our Norway road trip, we ordered a Brobizz toll pass for our motorhome.

We debated which one to get, but in the end, we went for a business tariff, as our vehicle was over 3.5t and we didn’t want to risk getting caught saying we were less.

As it happens, we were never checked at all- but we would rather play it safe and not have to worry about it.

The Brobizz also works in Sweden, Denmark and Switzerland, which makes our life easier for future travels and allows us to pass through toll booths without having to stop or find change.

They take the payments from your card automatically and send you a bill a few weeks later.

You can choose not to have a toll tag, but you won’t get any discount. You should register with Autopass.no in advance. If you don’t, you won’t be able to use the Autopass lanes, so will have more queues.

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Norway Tolls costs

In total, we went through 23 tolls during our Norway road trip- and over half of those were on the E6, which is the main road running North-South through central Norway (‘I’ on the map).

Having said that, those tolls only amounted to £84.88. The other tolls in Norway (around the western edge) came to a whopping £20.06- not bad for 12 days driving! But these are the roads with all the ferries on.

So the total for our Norway road trip itinerary for tolls was £104.94

Word of warning, the Oresund Bridge and the A/S Storebaelt, which are the big bridges from Sweden to Denmark, cost us £275 one way. I’ve included this in the figure for the final tolls.

How expensive is fuel in Norway?

Our fuel came to £307.72 and we roughly used 277 litres.

I know we filled up before we entered Norway, but I have no way of knowing how much fuel was in the tank when we left. Our mileage was (very roughly) 1,490 miles, which works out at us doing around 24.4 miles to the gallon.

Honestly, on those winding roads and in that appalling weather, plus towing nearly a tonne of motorbikes and trailer, we’re quite pleased with that figure for our fuel costs!

Motorhome wild camping guides for the UK & Europe

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How expensive are campsites in Norway?

We thought wild camping in Scotland was great, but then we went to Norway. While we were there, we spent nearly every night wild camping with our motorhome in some INCREDIBLE places.

Seriously, these places are out of this world- here’s one of our favourite wild camping spots in Norway !  

We only stayed in a campsite once- and it was well worth the £23 fee. The only reason we stayed here was because we needed a laundrette. You will find laundrettes in bigger cities, but we try to avoid this with our motorhome.

Just being able to wake up by the fjord and look out at that view was breathtaking- you can read more about our favourite campsite in Norway HERE . We didn’t use the electric, but we did pay £4 to use the laundry facilities.

If we passed a campsite, we had a quick look at the prices and found them to be similar in price to UK campsites out of season- £20-£25/ night for a motorhome or campervan.

We went to Norway in July, so it was already ‘high season’ and I wouldn’t expect the prices to be more expensive further North- although don’t quote me on that!! 

If you’re able to travel out of peak season, you might be able to save some money using an ACSI CampingCard.

Average cost of a trip to Norway – How much to budget for food?

Food and alcohol are one of the most expensive things on any trip to Norway. One huge tip is to stock up in advance in Germany, Denmark or even Sweden. Remember there are rules for taking alcohol across the border.

This is one of the biggest advantages to touring Norway with a motorhome or campervan- you can save a lot of money by taking and preparing your own food.

As I mentioned above, we didn’t buy much food in Norway at all over the 2 weeks. We bought the odd hot dog or bag of sweets at a fuel station and a lot of bottles of water.

Our shopping bill for food, water and road trip snacks was £152.21. And surprisingly, we didn’t eat anywhere near as many times as I thought we would!

Tips to make the cost of your Norway road trip cheaper- food

I packed our motorhome up with over 90 tins of various meats and sauces, and we didn’t even eat a third of them.

We also drank 3 bottles of wine we had on board, so I’ll be conservative and say we ate about £60 worth of food we already had with us. Which gives us a bill for two weeks food of £212.21.

For the best prices in Norway, try and shop in the Spar or Co-op’s. Most supermarkets and grocery shops do not open on Sundays. Garages will sell basic groceries (and hot dogs!) but at inflated prices!

All drinks (cans and plastic bottles) have a deposit (pant) on them- in addition to the price on the label. You can put them back into the machine inside the supermarkets and get the option of a voucher to spend or giving the money to charity.

How much is Alcohol in Norway?

Tax is charged on all alcohol with more than 0.7% volume of alcohol, making all alcohol expensive.

Beer can be found in most supermarkets, but is only sold before 8 pm on weekdays or 6 pm on Saturdays. For wine, spirits or strong beer, you must visit one of the Vinmonopolet outlets, found in most large cities and towns.

In a Vinmonopolet you will pay around NKR150 for a bottle of wine and NKR50 for beer and cider. Spirits cost considerably more.

Eating out in Norway- how expensive is it?

Oh, it’s expensive! The prices of restaurant and takeaway meals is crazy- even a McDonalds can cost upwards of £10 for a meal. Burger and chips can be £25 per meal and a beer, cider or glass of wine in a restaurant will cost between NKR60-90.

Our meals out involved two Norwegian takeaway pizzas and one “traditional” Norwegian fish and chips- and man they were so good!!

We had a coffee and cake out twice, once at the top of Trollstigen Road – the crazy road up the mountain with 11 hairpin bends!!

We also treated ourselves to a Swedish Burger King on the way home (which was exactly the same as a UK Burger King, if you’re interested!)

In total, we spent £106.10 on meals out. ( WAY better than what we spent on our trip to Germany earlier in the year!!)

How expensive is Norway compared to the UK?

If you are doing a Norwegian road trip by car and need to pay for accommodation, that could be expensive- especially if you need to buy meals and drinks each day.

But if you are bringing your own vehicle and cooking most of your own food, then I don’t think it’s scarily expensive. You can definitely buy food fairly reasonably (it’s probably equivalent to shopping in Marks and Spencer or Waitrose for my UK readers!)

Expect to pay at least double the amount you are used to in the UK for everything in a supermarket- even the local brands. Many stores have an ‘own brand’ which is slightly more reasonable- think Waitrose or M & S prices.

Other things we paid for in Norway

• £88 on gifts and keepsakes.
• £102 on entrance to the Flamsbana railway, voted the most beautiful train journey in the world (click the link to see if we thought it was worth the money!)
• £29 – fuel for motorbikes and the motorhome generator .
• £16.7 on LPG refillable gas.
• £3.71 on motorhome parking for the day at Alesund

How expensive is Norway to visit? Our total and costs of a trip to Norway…

So, here’s a summary of our total costs:

• Ferry from Denmark to Norway: £409.56
• Internal Ferries in Norway: £333.44
• Tolls in Norway: £104.94
• Bridges back via Sweden: £275
• Campsite: £23
• Food/ drink/ snacks: £212.21
• Eating out: £106.10
• Other costs: £239.41

Total: £1703.66

Average daily total (over 16 days): £106.48 per day

So, can you travel to Norway on a budget?

Absolutely.

I am actually pleasantly surprised by how little the trip cost us- we were worried it was going to completely break the bank after hearing all the rumours about how expensive Norway is for tourists.

Don’t get me wrong, as someone who is used to motorhoming in France and Italy, Norway is expensive to visit, but it wasn’t as bad as we expected- maybe we just had really really low expectations!

Like with any trip, the biggest expenses are going to be your accommodation and then your food and travel costs. If you’re staying in hotels/ BnBs, try and get something with a kitchen so you don’t have to buy every meal.

If you’re renting a car or motorhome, try to do the trip outside of peak season so you can get a deal on best prices.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

More tips to make Norway less expensive to visit

And if you’re driving to Norway from the UK or anywhere else, book your ferry in advance as soon as possible, try to wild camp and avoid campsites, bring food with you (but remember the new rules about driving in Europe after BREXIT about meat and milk products from the UK) and find other ways to save money on your road trip.

The way we look at it, it was still cheaper to drive our motorhome up to Norway than it would have been to hire one for two weeks.

Also, if we went again, we wouldn’t take the trailer (and our new motorhome is under 7m- a Swift 685 Escape ), so we would pay a LOT less on the ferries, which makes a big difference.

All in all, nothing about the costs of this trip put us off going back!

Other posts you might find useful:

• How to go campervanning in Norway
• Unmissable road trip ideas for Europe
• Essential motorhome checks to do before you travel
• The best logbooks to record and remember your road trip

See all our Europe motorhome travel tips and ideas

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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23 comments.

Thankyou so much for this very informative blog. It certainly is on my bucket list, hopefully we will start planning next year and go in 2020. We have been to Tromsø early this year and saw the Northern Lights and it certainly fuelled my desire to return. Can’t wait to get our motorhome on the journey of. A life time.

Fantastic! Sounds like you’ve got a brilliant adventure ahead.

Hi, I am an avid reader of your blog posts, but not very good with the technology… I Remember seeing a fab clip on video of you catching fish in Norway, and can’t find it again! I would like to show my husband so he could put a bit of fishing tackle together. We intend to go to Norway in May, and your posts have been extremely helpful to us. Thanks for putting all the hard work in to enable us to have your knowledge.

Sadly Sue, we never caught a fish in Norway- the weather was too bad for us to even bother! 🙂 Thank you for your kind words and I hope you have a wonderful trip.

Ah, that’s why I couldn’t find it! Not only bad with technology, but let down by poor memory too! Anyway, keep up the excellent work, it’s always good to get another point of view about places we have visited, enough to make us want to return, and places yet to visit. Our bucket list of places to go is getting longer by the minute.

Thankyou for such a useful and informative post, you’ve taken the uncertainty out of what could be a trip spent worrying about overspending. Shame about the weather you had. We’ve been to Norway on a cruise ship and loved it but would love to explore with the motorhome.

You’re very welcome Lynne. So pleased you found it useful 🙂 Hope you get there with your motorhome one day!

Great read, my wife & I were two weeks behind you for seven week but went through Sweden as far up as Senja. Hardly any rain until south Norway. Still waiting for the tolls but £3120 so far in our 5.98m camper van.

Yes, we were unlucky with the weather, which was a shame. You’ve done very well lasting 7 weeks on that- great job!!

Thanks for providing this breakdown of costs Kat. I’m really surprised I thought it would be double that, but as you point out it depends on how you are travelling I.e. your own motorhome and taking food with you.

Very true! I think that makes a big difference in a lot of places, as it’s the eating/ drinking out which often makes the difference. That, and the tourist entrance fees- but we didn’t do many of those in Norway. To be fair, we didn’t find many to do!!

We went to Norway last year. We drove up through Sweden and back slowly through Norway.

This year we went again but stayed in the southern part and explored more.

Next year we’re going back again and going a little further north than this year. Love it!

(One thing that can’t be planned for is any problem with the vehicle. Both times we had a different problem and the cost of repair was about 4 times more than it would have been in the UK. OUCH!!!)

Fantastic!! Where’s been your favourite place so far?? Sorry to hear you had vehicle troubles. That’s never fun.

Thank you for a very detailed account of your great trip. Always enjoy your form of writing and your wit. Keep it up Kat.

Thank you Frank! Very kind of you. 🙂

Reading this post brought back great memories. We spent just over a month touring Norway in our camper a couple of years ago. Like you, in hindsight we did far too much driving, we were determined to get to Nordkapp! I agree that eating out is expensive, we kept it to a minimum, but the ability to free camp in amazing places saves you a fortune. We also loved the free service points as well. I would definitely encourage anyone to go and visit, we loved it!

So jealous you got to Nordkapp! We will have to go back one day so we can get there! 🙂

Great Blog! Se are heading Norway by early Sepeber this year. My original idea is to do your type of tour un 3 weeks.. Do you think it is too much despite having one extra week ? KR, Eliana ??

Hi Eliana! Not at all!! I hope you have better weather than we do and can get out to explore a little more, but 3 weeks is perfectly doable. Have a great trip!!

Great post for motorhomers in Norway. We’ve travelled in Norway for about 6 months all up, over the last two years and it definitely isn’t as expensive as everyone thinks. Switzerland was way more expensive – I think it is just one of those rumours that starts and runs away with itself! Saying that, alcohol is very expensive – so maybe that factors into the widespread shock horror 😉 Luckily for us – we aren’t big drinkers 😉 Thanks for sharing Kat and happy travels 🙂

The weather was horrendous… it’s a shame that there isn’t more detail on this. I realise this is about costs, but is the expense worth the negative weather. Did it rain for days on end? Riding motorbikes can be a very wet experience, how did you cope with your wet gear, or did you just ride when it was dry and if you did only ride when it was dry, didn’t this cut into the time you could have spent doing other things? I’m not being critical, but you mentioned not liking hiking in the rain? Does it seem that hiking and motorcycling on a two-week trip is a tall order? I am considering a Norway trip, but it would be over a month or maybe two months & I am weighing up the potential huge milage (5000) and the wasted days over bad weather. This is a big call when I can head South to anywhere in Europe and further & be guaranteed that 90% of my days are going to be fair or good weather. Great article BTW!

Hi, I rode my 650 Transalp to knordkapp in 2012. I did a blog on ABR, Chacing Trolls. Its a fabulous ride,1 of my favourite bike trips. Yes fuel expensive and booze, well give up. I packed my bike with food and a 3ltr wine box. Wild camped, used 1 proper campsite….Had a free sauna. Which I shared with “naked motorhomers”. Who invited me for dinner. The Alantic highway is amazing. Plus all the WW2 history, I found a crash German plane. I think it cost me £1000, rode 5000 miles from London in 10 days. So why tell you MH fans. We have a touring caravan. Next May planning on renting in Bergen, Norway a campervan, fly in and head to Pulpit Rock. Then wiggle up the Coast to Loften islands. Onto Tomso ,we’re on my bike trip. The PM also invited me for dinner with his Goverment. Who were camping with some amazing teenager’s. Who’d been involed in the massacre the previous year. Knordkapp and bimble back to Bergen. I expect the costs to be justified by the beautiful endless views. Ot will also give us an idea what touring in a campervan is like. Regards D&E

Great info and having just postpones our Pan American Highway trip that was planned for 2021 we are now looking to travel to Scandinavia for a few months….well as long as the visa will allow>

Re the BroBizz tolls…

Our van is 4.1 and i have looked at the BroBizz website and, maybe its me, but it doesn’t appear that clear what category we would fit in. Is that why toy went for the Business option? Even there they offer one for ordinary vehicles and one for trucks and busses… No mention of motorhomes 🙂

Stay safe and, when you can, keep on travelling

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Is Norway Expensive? A Norway Trip Cost Guide

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The costs associated with travelling to a country are often one of the main factors that we take into consideration when planning a trip. If you’re looking into visiting Norway but don’t know much about it, you might be asking yourself ‘is Norway expensive to visit?’

Well, the short answer is yes, and more so than most destinations; however, there’s plenty you can do to keep your Norway trip cost as manageable as possible. 

In general, travel in Norway can be expensive with an average trip costing around €115-305 (1,315-3,488 NOK or $125-333 USD) per person per day. However, when planning a trip to Norway, there are definitely ways that you can save money, or spend more, should you wish.

So, if you’re trying to figure out a budget for your trip there, then keep reading! We’ll be breaking down how much it costs to travel to Norway, as well as giving you a number of tips if you’ll be on a tight budget. 

Table of Contents

Norway Trip Cost Guide

In this section, we’ll be covering the average travel costs in Norway across a number of goods and services in the country as well as discussing some ways you can bring your overall trip to Norway cost down. 

Accommodation Prices

The cost of accommodation in Norway is more or less consistent across the entire country. However, Oslo , being considerably larger than the other major Norwegian cities, has a larger market for rentals and hostels in particular; as such, you’ll find a wider range of options to choose from there, especially as far as budget accommodation is concerned. 

On average, you can expect to pay somewhere around €40 for a single bed in a standard, mixed-gender dormitory in a hostel .

For a double room in a decent hotel, rates typically fall somewhere between €120-150 per night. Rooms in luxury hotels in Norway will often cost around €150-250 per night depending on the season. 

If you’ll be needing to stick to an especially tight travel budget during your stay in and around Norway and you love spending time in the great outdoors, then you may want to consider spending part or all of your trip camping, which is certainly going to be the cheapest option.

The country is home to an astonishing number of campsites, which, on average, charge around €25 for an overnight stay (if they charge at all; some are free to use). 

And, if you’re the adventurous type, then you’ll likely be pretty pleased to hear that Norway has a law known as allemansretten , often translated as the ‘right to roam.’ The legislation that the law was passed under guarantees that everyone has the right to hike and camp unimpeded in ‘open country,’ which is any land that is unfenced and uncultivated. 

Naturally, there are some provisos you need to follow here, but, in short, you can just about camp anywhere you like in Norway, for free! According to the Norwegian government, most of the bogs, forests, mountains, and shoreline in the country are covered by the right to roam. 

If you do plan on wild camping during your trip, then we’d strongly recommend that you read up on the policy to make sure you follow it properly. And, make sure to be mindful of weather conditions in particular, especially if you’re travelling to Norway in the winter. 

Transportation Prices

In most Norwegian cities like Oslo or Bergen , prices for a 24-hour adult public transport ticket will start from around €8.

Taxis, on the other hand, cost quite the pretty penny. A single trip from downtown Oslo to Gardemoen Airport, which takes roughly 35 minutes, will typically be charged at a flat rate of €90! 

With all of this being said, Norway’s cities and towns are definitely on the smaller side, and many of them are fairly compact and walkable; the country isn’t home to any supercities, after all. And, for the most part, public transport will usually easily cover any trips you can’t make on foot.

So, on days that you’ve set aside for exploring more central parts of metropolitan areas of Norway, you may find that you can get away without renting a car or needing to take taxis at all. 

Meanwhile, the costs associated with travelling across the country vary drastically, depending on the mode of transport you use and how far in advance you book your tickets. For instance, a ticket for the Bergensbanen train from Oslo to Bergen costs around €120 if booked a few months before departure, but, if purchased at the last minute, might be twice as much.

In many instances, domestic flights with carriers like Norwegian can be cheaper than intercity travel via bus or train networks. 

If you want to get further off the beaten path and have a lot of flexibility, it can also be a good idea to consider renting a car in Norway and going on a bit of a road trip.

Expect the cost of a car hire to land at around €80 for the base price – not including the cost of petrol or any additional insurance. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices across many major companies.

Keep in mind that Norway does have high fuel prices so this is something that needs to be factored into your transportation in Norway costs.

Food Prices

The cost of food in Norway is often what visitors to the country find the hardest to adjust to. One kilogram of apples costs around €2.50 for instance, with your average loaf of bread coming at a similar price. 

With that being said, if you’re on an especially tight budget when visiting Norway, then you’ll likely want to self-cater where and whenever possible. While groceries at the supermarket there are definitely on the pricier side, they absolutely pale in comparison to the cost of paying for a meal out. 

However, one thing that’s worth noting is that, while eating out in general in Norway is expensive, there’s actually not much of a difference between the prices you’d pay for an average meal at lower-end and higher-end establishments. 

For instance, the cost of a Big Mac Meal or an equivalent meal deal in Norway is typically somewhere around €12-13. Meanwhile, the price of a burger, fries, and drink at an upmarket restaurant would typically fall somewhere between €16-18. So, while it might be tempting to stick to fast food chains if you’re visiting the country on a budget, you’ll likely find that any savings from doing so will be minimal at best. 

More broadly speaking, average prices for lunch and dinner in Norway generally range from €15-30 per person for a main. Expect soft drinks to be priced at somewhere between €3-8 per person, with alcoholic beverages costing considerably more. Lunch and dinner deals with set menus aren’t commonplace in Norway like they are in other parts of Europe. 

You might also notice while in Norway that the prices of confectionary or soft drinks at shops seem especially steep. This is because products containing refined sugar are actually subject to a number of hefty taxes in the country, and have been since way back in 1922.

So, if you want to sample the local chocolate or confectionary without paying an arm and a leg to do so, your best bet is actually purchasing goods like these at one of the duty-free outlets you’ll find at a number of Norwegian international airports.

And, on the off chance that you’ll be A. spending a decent amount of time in Norway, B. have access to a rental car, and C. are somewhere in the south-east of the country, then you may want to head across the border into Sweden to do a big grocery shop, like many of the locals do. When in Rome!

While Sweden is definitely an expensive country in its own right, the average price of groceries there is still considerably cheaper than they are in Norway – this is especially true of alcohol. 

Activities Prices

Norway is a country with plenty to offer visitors in terms of attractions and activities. Your average guided walking tour will usually cost around €20-30, depending on how long it lasts, as well as how much ground it covers. Note that some companies do offer free guided tours! 

Indeed, one of the great things about visiting Norway is how many options for free activities and attractions are available. Perhaps one of the country’s absolute greatest draws is its natural beauty, for example, and you can generally visit even its best-known sites and landmarks without paying a single cent. 

For instance, many of the country’s historic festninger or fortresses, like Akershus Festning in Oslo and Bergenshus Festning in Bergen , are free to enter. This is also true of many of the country’s churches, too – the iconic stave churches are especially worth checking out, though some of them do charge a small fee if you want to enter them. 

Some of the larger museums in Norway are free, too. This is perhaps especially true of Oslo, though note that most of the more ‘niche’ museums do charge for admission. The price of admission for adults to Norway’s bigger museums usually ranges from €13-18. An Osl o Pass can save you money if you visit a lot of attractions in Norway’s capital.

However, keep in mind that if you head north to places like Tromso or Lofoten Islands then you’ll need to budget higher for activities like northern lights tours.

Entertainment Prices

Grabbing a drink or a coffee while out and about in Norway can end up being far costlier than you might expect. Typically, a cup of coffee at a cafe in one of the larger cities will cost somewhere around €4.50, while prices for a half-litre of beer at a restaurant or bar will usually start at €8 or so. 

Note that the high cost of alcoholic beverages in Norway, like in the other Nordic states, is due to heavy government taxes imposed on the sale of products with a concentration of alcohol higher than 0.7% ABV; this is true of both locally-produced and imported goods.

The same is true for a surprisingly wide range of consumables, and hefty taxes are also levied on products containing sugar, as previously discussed. 

So, if you’re planning on drinking while you visit Norway on a budget, you might want to consider purchasing your alcohol at the airport, either before departure or upon arrival in Norway.

Even in Norway, alcohol is much more affordable when purchased at the airport (especially spirits) as it is duty-free and not subject to the same level of taxation that it is in shops and restaurants around the country. 

Otherwise, concert tickets for events held at small, local venues in the bigger Norwegian cities will usually cost anywhere from €13-18 and up. Cinema tickets, on average, cost €10.50 for adults. 

Is Norway Expensive? Average Prices in Norway 

Below, we’ve listed loose prices for a range of goods and services in Norway to help you come up with a daily budget for your trip. These are an average and assuming that some costs, such as the cost of accommodation or a car hire, are split between two people.

Accommodation : €40-125 / night

Transportation : €10-50 / day

Food : €20-40 / day

Activities : €30-50 / day

Entertainment : €15-40 / day

So, if you’re planning on travelling to Norway, staying in a decent hotel, and will be eating out for most of your meals, then you can probably expect to be spending a total of something like €305 per day. If you’ll be using budget-friendly options where possible, then you’ll want to have a budget of around €115 per day. 

Is Norway expensive for tourists? I think it’s safe to say that, compared to just about anywhere else in the world, it definitely is. However, there are plenty of tips and tricks that you can use to reduce your trip to Norway’s cost and leave without having burnt a giant hole in your bank account. 

Are you planning a trip to Norway? Have any questions about expenses? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Oslo or Bergen: Which Norwegian City to Visit?

The Ultimate 3, 4 or 5 Days in Lofoten Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bergen Itinerary

About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

Very informative guide to Norway. Will be going there mid August. Expecting lots of things to be expensive as you have mentioned in your blog. I might have a heart attack when I’m there after seeing the prices for food and other things. Will be traveling around Norway by car, sleeping in some cabins and budget hostels mostly. About 13 of us, my family members and myself will definitely enjoy the spectacular views around Norway. Traveling to Lillehammer, Alesund, Geiranger, Flam, Loen and Oslo of course. Lots of driving and stopping to take some pictures of fjords and the sceneries. Just to ask, do tourists need to bring plenty of cash, since Norway is mostly cashless, or having debit/credit cards will do just fine. I’m sure a bit of cash will come in handy when we touch down in Norway. Thanks for the information on your blog.

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Norway on a budget: how to visit in 2024.

Norway has a reputation for being super expensive, and there is some truth to that, but actually, after spending 3 weeks roadtripping throughout the entire country, I can tell you it’s totally possibly to visit Norway on a budget!

Yes, there are some expensive items in relation to the rest of Europe, and that’s because the wages are much higher. But don’t fret, below I will take you through my best tips for visiting Norway on a budget. 

Our budget: in Norway we spent around £40-50 per day. 

Travellerspoint

The cost of getting around Norway 

When it comes to visiting Norway, it’s actually super cheap to get there from mainland Europe. The low cost carrier, Ryanair even do deals to Oslo for 4,99! But, surely there is a catch to flights being so cheap...yes, it’s expensive when you get there! 

Anyway, you can use Skyscanner to compare the best deals for visiting Norway on a budget. 

Once you land, you’ll need to decide what is the best way to get around Norway. You have a few different options available to you…

Hire a car 

When Brad and I road tripped through Norway, we had our own vehicle thanks to our awesome collaboration with Tinggly . We could NEVER have seen all the amazing things we got to see in Norway without having our own vehicle. We got to explore so much and the views when driving through Norway are amazing. 

I totally suggest you rent a camper or motorhome of your own to get the most out of your Norway adventures. Fuel in Norway actually changes throughout the country. It ranges from around 1.3 euro to 1.6 euro depending on where you are!

Norway is also famous for its road tolls. So there are a few things to know to help you with your road tolls and managing Norway on a budget: 

• The north of Norway has no road tolls (yay!), so from Lofoten upwards to the North Cape you can explore free of charge! 
• If you’ve got your own vehicle, then you can register for a toll pass before you visit Norway and get 20% off the toll roads. 
• There are very few physical managed tolls (by people) left in Norway, and most are automatic. They scan the car then send a bill to the car owners address. If you’ve rented a car, you’ll pay via your chosen car rental company. 
• You can avoid toll roads by taking longer routes, but when driving through the fjords, the chances are you’ll still need to take ferries. 
• Ferries range from 120 nok to 220 nok (around 12-22 euro) and you can pay on board via card or cash. 

Read: Ultimate Guide To The Lofoten Islands

Take the Train

There are a variety of great train networks in Norway and actually some of the train routes are regarded as some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Brad and I did a journey in Flan and it brought some beautiful views. Popular routes include Oslo to Flan and Bergen to Flan, so it’s totally possible to see some of the most amazing landscapes in Norway with train travel. 

You may want to pick up a Scandinavia pass , as this offers much greater flexibility and can also save you a lot of money on travel expenses across your trip!

There are quite a few airports all across Norway that connect the country very well. We have seen some TINY airports when driving, so it’s totally possible to fly yourself around Norway. However I can’t say that’s going to be budget friendly, but certainly is convenient.

You can book flights on Skyscanner and prices vary, but for example, a flight to Kirkenes from Oslo is around $90.

The cost of food in Norway

Eating out in norway.

There is no denying it, eating out in Norway is expensive if you’re trying to visit on a budget. But, in some places, it’s actually pretty average for Europe. For example, in Northern Norway you can get food for around 120-180 nok (which is around 12-18 euro), whereas in typical tourist areas, you’re looking at over 200 nok. 

The cheapest place you can eat in Norway is probably McDonalds. So if you’re looking for cheap, fast food then opt opt for that, especially in busy cities. 

Before going to Norway, I was warned a cup of coffee would cost me around 7 euro, other than possibly some places in Oslo, that’s not the case. Espresso coffee is more expensive, coming in at around 35-50 nok.

Filter coffee is cheaper, a couple of Euro and you can get cheap or free refills. 

Top Tip: If you’re looking for a cheap (free) coffee, then when you shop in a supermarket, there is often complementary filter coffee on offer, (sometimes cookies if you’re lucky!). 

So, if you’re wondering how much a cup of coffee is in Norway, then I’d average at 2 euro for filter coffee and 4 euro for espresso style (cappuccino, latte).

Grocery shopping in Norway 

If you plan on making your own food whilst backpacking Norway, or road tripping Norway, then you will cut costs dramatically. We found cooking our own food the best way to visit Norway on a budget. 

Mexican food in Norway is weirdly the cheapest I’ve seen it anywhere in the world, I’ll never know why! But basically all your pastas, potatoes, vegetables, etc are all normal priced and if you stick to own brands it’s even cheaper. 

Meats are more expensive, but the cheapest thing to buy is sausages. There is a range of frozen vegetarian and vegan cuisine too, and these are more expensive than other parts of Europe. 

The most common supermarkets in Norway are 

• Coop Extra 

My favourite is Rema 1000 and that’s the major one we used. 

Smaller shops like Joker and Circle K are more expensive, but Circle Ks often have good value hot food and drinks deals for when your on the road.

Cost of alcohol in Norway 

Alcohol in Norway is expensive, there is NO escaping that. 

You can buy booze that’s under a certain percentage in supermarkets, so basic ciders and beers. If you want anything stronger than that you have to go to one of the state run liquor stores. 

In order to save yourself some money, I suggest you bring in your 1 litre allowance from the duty free airport. Since Norway isn’t in the EU, you’re subject to non EU prices, which makes the alcohol cheaper! 

Drinking in bars or restaurants is very expensive, and there is no real way to do this on a budget, unless you catch a happy hour deal, (Which won’t be happy hour deals you normally expect!). So avoid drinking alcohol out if attempting to visit Norway on a budget. 

Activities in Norway 

If you’re wondering why Norway is so expensive, then you’ve got to consider the wages. People get paid more here, so they’ve got more to spend, so it’s all relative. But, because they get paid more, it kind of means their activities and tours tend to be a little on the more expensive side….

BUT a lot of the amazing things to see and do in Norway can be achieved completely free, if you’ve got a car with you. 

Some of these activities include: 

• Finding the Northern Lights. You’ll need darkness, a strong KP, clear skies and luck. You’ll also need to be North. Don’t go on a Northern Lights tour if you don’t have the money, just simply drive to secluded spots. There are many picnic areas beside lakes and in parks that are perfect for searching for the Northern Lights. 
• Seeing the Fjords: The Fjords in Norway are beautiful and you don’t need to take a Fjord cruise or flight to see them if you can’t afford it. Simply amongst the fjords and pull over at different viewpoints to get some epic sights and photo spots. 
• Nature is free: Norway has many beautiful hikes and waterfalls and 99% of them are free. 
• Get your guide offer some great deals on tours around Norway so that’s a good place to start

Exchanging money in Norway 

Norway uses the NOK and basically if you divide any number by 10 you’ll get the equivalent in euros. EVERYWHERE in Norway accepts card, after 3 weeks of travelling, I never found one single place that didn't. 

The best way to get a good exchange rate is to use the likes of Starling , Monzo and Revolut . All free travel cards to order, and you get the best exchange rate that’s on the market (it’s constantly changing in line with the official exchange rates). So you will always get a good deal, no fees, and you if you do want to withdraw money, it won’t charge you for up to £200. 

Tip: Starling has no limit on withdrawal for free, but we found the exchange rate a bit “worse”, (not that you would even notice, we are talking pennies of difference) and if you get a Monzo and Revolut you can use both and get £400 a month free withdrawals! 

Don’t change your money before you enter Norway. Just withdraw from an ATM there. They don’t charge! If you want to visit Norway on a budget, avoid the terrible exchange rate in your home country and wait until you arrive to Norway. 

Shopping in Norway 

One good thing about buying souvenirs in Norway is it’s actually tax free shopping. When it comes to shopping, generally items are more expensive than they are elsewhere in Europe. 

If you want to buy gifts for families and friends, then you can get fridge magnets, shot glasses, tea towels etc for around 40-60 nok. 

Read: Best Christmas markets in Europe

Accommodation in Norway 

Okay, so I’ll be straight with you and say that Bradley and I didn’t pay for hotels in Norway because we lived in your campervan. 

But there are ways to save money on hotels in Norway. 

• Visit in the off season. We visited in Autumn, and hotels are readily available and often have sales on to get customers in. 
• Use Airbnb, we have a sign up code that gets you money off your first booking. But generally Airbnb is much cheaper than hotels and you can get rooms for 2 people for as cheap as $30 a night. 
• If you do want to stay in hotels in norway, then I recommend you use booking.com to search for all the best prices. It’s what we use too. 

If you’re travelling via campervan/caravan/tent, then there are lots of campsites throughout Norway. Prices vary, but on average a campsite with electricity and access to shower/toilets is around 200-250 nok per night. 

If you’re looking for wild camping spots in Norway, I suggest the app CamperContact. It was fantastic for finding camp spots in Norway that were free to stay! 

So there you go, my guide to visiting Norway on a budget. It’s totally possible to visit Norway and not splash the cash. Of course it all depends on what you are doing, but basically slow travel is the best way to spend less on a Norway holiday. 

Shop around, plan ahead and don’t spend frivolously and you can see all that this amazing country has to offer, without worrying about spending too much money. 

If you’ve got any other tips for seeing Norway on a budget, then drop a comment below! 

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5 million people can't be wrong

How Expensive is Norway (2024 Price Examples & Helpful Tips for Travelers)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

What’s the first word that comes to mind when you think of Norway ? It seems that for many people it’s ‘expensive’ .

We all heard that Norway is expensive to visit. The question I had before our first trip was HOW expensive is Norway ? I mean, what’s expensive to someone coming from Southern Asia or Eastern Europe, might seem very reasonable to someone coming from Belgium or the UK…

Hence this post with real-life examples of how much everything costs in Norway. This should help you to get a better idea of how expensive Norway actually is, so that you can estimate how much money you need to visit Norway . Find out!

Disclaimer: Prices provided here and the exchange rates used are correct at the time of writing and are only meant to give you an idea of how much everything costs in Norway.

Good to know: Norway currency is Norwegian Krone (NOK). At the moment of the last update, 1 NOK equals 0,09 EUR or 0,095 USD. If you just want to get a rough idea of the prices in Norway, simply divide the amount by 10. So, for example, 100 NOK is 10 EUR or 10 USD.

READ ALSO: Norway Travel Guide – an overview of all our guides to various destinations in Norway

How expensive are the flights to and within Norway

Unless you come from the other side of the globe, flying to Norway might actually be rather cheap compared to the rest of the trip.

There are several budget carriers flying to Norway, including Norwegian that sometimes offers transatlantic tickets for 250-300 EUR each way. Flights from European destinations to Norway usually cost around 100-250 EUR round-trip. But there are so many factors that can influence the price.

If you fly to Oslo, you might find cheaper tickets than if you would fly to the smaller, regional airports. However, take everything into account, not just the flight price. You might save 50 EUR on a flight, but then spend two days to get where you need to get, and it will cost you hundreds more…

There are many search engines online where you can check flight availability and find the best deals for your trip to Norway. And don’t forget to search for alternative airports as it sometimes makes a big difference in price.

Prices for flights within Norway vary significantly depending on the airline and the airports you fly. If there’re budget carriers operating the route, you might find flights under 50 EUR round-trip, whereas on other routes it might cost you 200 – 300 EUR or even more.

Traveling to Norway from Europe – fly, drive, or cruise

If you are traveling to Norway from Western or Central Europe, you might be wondering if it’s not easier to simply drive to Norway by car instead of flying or taking a cruise. It really depends.

We live in Belgium and first time we planned a trip to Norway, our first idea was that going by car to Norway would be cheaper than flying. But – in our case – it wasn’t. So you really have to make calculations for yourself and see what works best.

On one trip, we flew to Norway with KLM from Amsterdam and paid 260 EUR per person for a return flight to smaller regional airports (luggage and other extras included). It’s not cheap, and on top of that, we still needed to rent a car.

It’s actually quite easy to drive to Norway from Belgium by car, and we met many people who did that. But when we calculated how many days extra that would add to our trip, added the fuel costs, the ferry, extra nights hotel, and the food we would need, it turned out that it was still cheaper to fly and rent a car in Norway. Even with a family of five people.

On all our recent trips to Norway, we flew as well.

In some cases, booking a cruise might be even cheaper than flying or driving. If you consider this, take a look at our guide with the main reasons to visit Norway by cruise .

How expensive is it to rent a car in Norway

Norway is the most expensive country for car rental from all our trips, except for Iceland.

For our first Norway road trip , we rented a comfortable car for 5 people, an estate, VW Passat. It cost us about 155 EUR per day (130 EUR car rental + 25 EUR zero liability insurance).

On the more recent trips, we used this website to search for the best deals (and by now we learned to book well ahead!). Usually, we manage to find a rather big family car in the high season for about 60-70 EUR per day, including full insurance.

TIP: The way to save some money is not to rent a car for the days when you don’t absolutely need it. Parking is very expensive in Norway, just as car ferries and toll roads. So only rent a car when you really need it, and use public transport for the rest of the trip.

Here you can check car rental prices and find the best car rental deals for your trip to Norway.

How expensive is fuel in Norway

At the moment of the last udpdate, fuel prices in Norway are around 20-22 NOK (2-2.2 EUR) per liter, depending on the area and on the fuel.

It’s comparable to Switzerland, and about 10-15% more expensive than in most Western European countries.

How expensive are toll roads in Norway

Luckily, there weren’t that many toll roads on our recent trips to Norway.

After a two-week road trip exploring the fjords if Southwestern Norway , we received the bill from our car rental company and we had to pay just 32 EUR for toll roads in total. Not too bad for 1600 km. We paid a lot more for toll roads in Portugal or France.

On a recent road trip in Northern Norway we didn’t encounter toll roads at all. But there was one ferry crossing that we had to pay via the toll system of our rental car.

However, it really depends on where you drive. For example, the recently opened under-sea tunnel Ryfylke near Stavanger has a toll that varies depending on the type of vehicle you drive, with prices varying between 70 NOK and 170 NOK (10-17 EUR). You pay significantly less if you’re driving a zero-emission car.

Good to know: Most rental cars are equipped with a special system that keeps track of all the tolls you have to pay. When the car rental company gets the bill, they charge it on your credit card. If you are not sure how it works, make sure to inquire when renting a car.

How expensive is car parking in Norway

If you have to park your car in a city in Norway, it will cost you around 15-25 EUR per 24 hours. Furthermore, it’s not always easy to find a parking spot in towns and cities.

So if you are planning a road trip around Norway, keep this in mind when researching where to stay.

Once again, only rent a car for the days when you really need it.

How expensive is public transport and car ferry in Norway

We used public transport a couple of times in Norway. While not cheap, the prices were reasonable. Here are some examples:

Bus prices in Norway

Here are just a few examples of what it costs to take a bus in Norway:

Airport transfer by bus from Stavanger airport to Stavanger city center costs 160 NOK/ 16 EUR one way or 240 NOK/ 24 EUR round-trip. Tickets are about 15% cheaper if bought online in advance. Up to 4 kids per adult travel free of charge if you choose a family ticket. We researched the prices of the bus and the taxi and found out that taking a taxi would cost more than three times that amount.

Bus from Stavanger to Bergen costs 650 NOK/ 65 EUR per adult. But if you book a family ticket, you pay this same price for one adult and one child. For the five of us, we bought two family tickets and one extra child ticket which was half the price. You can find more information and book tickets for this route here .

Airport transfer in Trondheim with an express bus costs 149 NOK/ 15 EUR for adults. Kids travel free with adults (but require a ticket). There are also city buses that are somewhat cheaper (but also take longer).

How expensive is taxi in Norway

Taking a taxi is really expensive in Norway. We only took a taxi once during our trip, when we had to get to our car rental with our suitcases and three kids on a rainy morning in Bergen. For a distance of just 2 km, we paid 150 NOK/ 15 EUR.

On another occassion, we were quoted over 30 EUR for an even shorter ride and in the end, the taxi didn’t even show up, so we simply walked… So if you can avoid taking a taxi in Norway, you can save quite some money.

Ferry and car ferry prices

Here are some examples of what ferry costs in Norway:

Car ferry prices in Norway vary a lot depending on the routes. Most 20-40min ferry crossings cost around 150-200 NOK/ 15-20 EUR for a car including a driver, and around 50-100 NOK/ 5-10 EUR for adults, half price for kids.

Some ferries are a bit cheaper, others – more expensive. If I recall well, the cheapest car ferry we took was 160 NOK/ 16 EUR for a car and our family of five.

The longer car ferry route, e.g. Geirangerfjord from Geiranger to Hellesylt costs about 700 NOK (70 EUR) for a car including a driver, plus 335 NOK (34 EUR) for each additional adult.

How expensive is dining out in Norway: food, drinks, alcohol

Food prices in Norway vary a lot depending on the place (big town, remote hotel), the shop, café, or restaurant.

Below, you can find an overview of food and drink prices in Norway. Note that these are café and restaurant prices, based on how much everything cost during our recent trips in Norway. Even when we went to a supermarket, most supermarkets were in rather touristy areas, so prices might be a bit lower in less touristy places and supermarkets where locals shops.

Here are some examples to give you an idea of how much food and drinks cost in Norway:

Food prices in Norway

• Sandwiches cost around 80-100 NOK/ 8-11 EUR. Similar prices everywhere: on a ferry, at a petrol station, etc.
• Ice cream costs 30-60 NOK/ 3-6 EUR. Or you can get a pack of 6 for the same price at a supermarket. Soft ice is very popular and even more expensive.
• Hamburger menu at the McDonald’s or Burger King costs around 100-160 NOK/ 10-16 EUR.
• A hamburger, a pizza, or a sandwich meal at a café costs around 200-300 NOK/ 20-30 EUR.
• Pasta dish costs from 200 to 300 NOK/ 20-30 EUR.
• The main fish or meat course at a restaurant will quickly cost you 300-400 NOK/ 30-40 EUR and more.
• Dessert prices at a restaurant start at around 120 NOK/ 12 EUR, often up to 200 NOK/ 20 EUR.

Here are some real-life examples of how much we paid for food in Norway. A few years ago, in Florli , we had a salmon dish for just 190 NOK/ 19 EUR, while at Preikestolen Base Camp at the trailhead of the Pulpit Rock hike , the cheapest bowl of soup cost 98 NOK/ 10 EUR.

The cheapest meal we had (apart from McDonald’s) was the pizza buffet for lunch in Bergen; it cost 110 NOK/11 EUR for adults and 60 NOK/ 6 EUR for kids.

On the most recent trips, we usually paid 20-35 EUR per main dish, depending on the restaurant and what we had. Sometimes, you can get a huge pizza for 20 EUR, and other times, you pay more for a simple fish sandwich…

Drink prices in Norway

• Tap water is delicious in Norway and all restaurants serve water for free.
• Soft drinks cost around 40-60 NOK/ 4-6 EUR.
• Coffee or tea costs 30-40 NOK/ 3-4 EUR.
• Cappuccino or late costs around 50-70 NOK / 5-7 EUR.
• Beer prices at a café usually start around 80- 100 NOK/ 8-10 EUR.
• The cheapest bottle of wine at a restaurant costs from around 450 NOK/ 45 EUR. A glass of wine usually at least 100 NON (10 EUR).

Below is an example of a minibar price list from the Radisson Blu Royal Garden Hotel in Trondheim . These prices are from a few years ago, so they are all a bit higher now. But because the exchange rate is now more favorable, the prices I indicated in EUR are approximately correct.

Tipping in Norway

It’s not expected that you tip in Norway, but people tend to round up the bill . Hotel staff and taxi drivers don’t expect a tip. However, almost every restaurant bill we received in Norway had some space foreseen for tips.

I read on some internet forums that while not obligatory, it’s becoming more common to leave a tip of 5-15% if you are satisfied with the service.

With such high prices and salary levels, I would think it’s not necessary to tip in Norway. But if you feel like it and leave a small tip for an exceptional service, it will certainly be appreciated.

How expensive are museums and other activities in Norway

Here are several examples of how much we paid for various activities in Norway:

We visited several museums in Norway ( Norwegian Canning Museum in Stavanger was one of our favorites). Most museums cost around 100-200 NOK/ 10-20 EUR for adults, half price for kids, and free for children under 6.

There are cheaper tickets for families, students, or seniors. On top of that, many museums offer combination tickets with other activities or museums in town, so it’s worth looking into that.

Prepare to pay 50 EUR for a fjord cruise, 20-40 EUR for a cable car or funicular, and over 100 EUR for boat trips, kayak tours etc. Most attractions have discounts for children.

Here you can find all the best tours in Norway and check the prices .

The most expensive tours are winter tours in Northern Norway – e.g. dog sledding in Tromso or snowmobile tours in Svalbard .

How expensive are hotels in Norway

The price of hotels in Norway highly depends on the place and on the period when you are visiting. Just to give you some idea, most hotels we stayed at cost us anywhere from 1100 to 3000 NOK/ 110 – 300 EUR per night for a family of 5. But recently, we also paid about 400-500 EUR per night for some really nice accommodations (for the family).

Sometimes, we had a big family room or two connecting rooms, sometimes a suite, sometimes an apartment, and on the recent trip to Lofoten – entire rorbuer cabins . In most cases, it was not the size of the room that determined the price the most, but the location of the hotel.

The most expensive hotels were in Flam , Sogndal , and Geiranger . Also Lofoten accommodations , Tromso hotels and Longyearbyen hotels in Svalbard are very pricey.

The cheapest accommodation can be found in bigger towns like Oslo , Stavanger , Trondheim , Alesund , Kristiansund , etc. For us, Bergen was an expensive exception to this rule, but if you just need a regular 2-person room, you’ll find more affordable options.

Is it cheaper to rent a cabin or stay at a private apartment instead of a hotel?

If you are staying at one location for a longer time when visiting Norway, then it might be worth considering renting a cabin or an apartment. However, if you are just staying somewhere for one or two nights, don’t get fooled by the seemingly lower price of private accommodations. Usually, there are lots of extra fees , like bed linen, towels, cleaning, etc.

In most cases, it is not worth the hassle for a short stay, as it costs just as much as a hotel. On top of that, hotel prices usually include breakfast, and it’s another big cost to consider if staying in self-catering accommodation in Norway.

PRO TIP: The best way to save on accommodation costs in Norway is to book well in advance, especially if traveling in the high season. You can find the best deals for Norway accommodation here .

Alternatively, take a look at the accommodation map below – insert your travel dates, location, and group size, and you’ll see everything that’s available in that area for your travel dates.

Do you need cash in Norway?

I received so many questions about paying by credit cards vs. cash in Norway, that I decided to update the article to include this information.

In principle, you don’t need any cash in Norway and should be able to pay by credit card pretty much everywhere. Ideally, you should have a card with a chip and a PIN code. Credit cars that require a signature and have no PIN aren’t widely accepted in Europe anymore.

TIP: If you are traveling from the US and have no card with a pin yet, here you can find the best credit cards for travel .

The first time we visited Norway, took some cash from an ATM upon arrival in Norway, but the only time it was really necessary was when we decided to buy some fruit and raspberries from a farmer next to the road. For the rest, we kept it till the last few days of the trip and used it for our last dinner, paying the difference by card.

On our subsequent trips, we didn’t even take cash at all and only used credit cards everywhere we traveled in Norway.

Norway Money FAQ

In addition to all the info above, here are some frequently asked questions that we get in regards to money matters, prices, and budgeting for a trip to Norway:

How much your trip to Norway costs will depend on the duration of your trip, the season when you travel, the transportation you use, accommodation choices, and tours. It’s, therefore, impossible for us to tell you exactly how much money you need for a trip to Norway. The biggest cost is your flight, car rental, accommodation, and tours – all the things that you can research online before booking your trip.

You don’t really need any cash in Norway because credit cards are accepted everywhere. You can withdraw an equivalent of 50-100 USD in Norwegian currency from an ATM upon arrival in the country, but it’s likely that you will have most of that money left at the end of your trip.

Tipping in Norway isn’t customary and you are not expected to tip. However, it’s becoming more common to round up the restaurant bill if you feel that the service was exceptionally good.

Depending on the restaurant and what you order, count 200-400 NOK (20-40 EUR) for a warm meal for lunch or dinner in Norway. In addition, add around 40-100 NOK (4-10 EUR) for a non-alcoholic drink.

So, this is our money guide for traveling to Norway. I hope it will help you have a better idea of what to expect and how much to budget for your trip to Norway.

Planning a trip to Norway and not sure where to start? Take a look at our detailed 2 week Norway road trip itinerary for some inspiration.

** Traveling to Norway soon? Don’t forget travel insurance !**

More travel tips and destination guides for Norway:

• Best Things to Do in Stavanger
• Where to Stay in Stavanger
• Pulpit Rock Hike
• Florli 4444 Hike
• Things to do in Flam + 1 Day Itinerary
• Lofoten Travel Tips
• Best Things to Do in Lofoten
• Where to Stay in Lofoten
• Lofoten in Summer
• Best Things to Do in Tromso in Winter
• Tromso Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Tromso
• Northern Lights in Tromso
• Svalbard Travel Guide & Tips
• Svalbard in Winter
• Here you can find all our Norway articles:   Norway Travel Guide

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Thursday 22nd of February 2024

Hi Jurga, We are a group of 7, would you say it is possible to be spontaneous with accommodation bookings (hotels/airbnbs etc) in mid July in the regions of Rogaland and Vestland? We are thinking about renting cars and would like to be spontaneous but I am worried about high season and as we are a group of 7 I am worried about the availability of reasonably priced accommodation.. do you have any experience here? Thanks in advance for your advice! Best regards, Michelle

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Hi Michelle, based on our experience, it's very difficult to find accommodations in the more rural areas of Norway in summer on the go, even if you are just with 2 people, not to mention a group of 7. Hotels in the most popular destinations are booked up months and months in advance. Not even to mention 'reasonably priced' places - those are always gone first. So if you want to visit this summer, I strongly encourage you to book everything asap. Otherwise, you will likely have a very frustrating experience and spend your vacation time looking for a place to sleep rather than sightseeing. This could be different if you just stick to the main cities, but I assume you would want to see more than Oslo. The same with car rental - the longer you wait, the pricier it gets. And renting a car in Norway is already not cheap. You may also want to check if you can rent one bigger car rather than two - if the price difference isn't huge, it will save you money on fuel, tolls, and parking.

Karen Mullens

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Thanks you. Great info. We have about 14 nights in Norway. But on a Viking ocean ship. We are happy to walk quite abit and do included short tours. I’m guessing we’d probably spend less that €100 per day on average. ( hoping so !)

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Hi Karen, it's really hard for me to tell ;). If all your meals are already included and the excursions too, then you don't have to spend a lot extra. Otherwise, 100 eur/day is not much since most excursions will cost that much or more, not to mention the food. It really depends - in some places, you can see and do a lot without having to spend much money at all. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 19th of May 2020

I would say that it all depends how money you earn and where you live. If you are from Eastern Europe like myself you will be struggling to spend that much money on a hotel, one meal. But, there are many things you can do to reduce your spendings and visiting Norway if you don't have much money isn't problem thanks to other recommendations where to eat on cheap, where to spend night. For example I was in city Skien and managed to be there 5 nights, eat, sleep, visit two museums and other attractions that are free under 400 Euros. And I must say I was happy with trip very much. If not for this situation I would go again this summer.

Thursday 21st of May 2020

Thanks for sharing your experience, Milan. It just shows that everyone is traveling differently and that your budget depends so much on your choices. And yes, fingers crossed we can all travel again soon.

Thomas Måløy

Thursday 6th of February 2020

Prices in Norway are very Ok !

For us coming from Western Europe, prices in Norway are on the high side, but indeed, quite ok. Apart from organized activities, which are really expensive... But I can imagine that for people coming from countries where prices are a fraction of what things cost in Norway, everything is very expensive... It's all about what you compare it to.

Monday 2nd of December 2019

Thank you so much for your great travel trips!

Thursday 5th of December 2019

Glad to help. Enjoy your trip!

Nordic Perspective

Traveling to Norway: What To Expect (Costs, Data, Attractions)

So you are considering a visit to Norway, or maybe you’re just curious about how expensive Norway is. Either way, here is a balanced and unbiased view of how Norway stacks up globally in travel categories such as accessibility, popularity, quality of life, travel costs, and attractions. For each category, I include reliable data points that will give you a good idea of what to expect if you visit the country of fjords.

• Visitor Accessibility - How Easy Is It to Travel To & Within Norway?​

Visitor Popularity, Demand, Total Area, and Global Reputation

Quality of life index – how does norway compare globally, quality of life surveys – what do actual expats and visitors think of norway, reported cost of food, drinks and shopping – how expensive is it to visit norway, attractions & travel community, capital city rating – is oslo a good travel destination.

I feel lucky to have been able to grow up in and travel around the Nordics throughout my life. Whether it has been historical and educational trips with family or adventurous and explorational trips with friends, I have never run out of new places to discover and new things to do in Scandinavia.

But just because I love the Scandinavian countries doesn’t mean everyone would, so I was curious to find how Norway is like for the average traveler .

To find out how Norway stacks up travel-wise, and in an attempt to give you an unbiased and balanced view of how the country rates as a travel destination , I have collected relevant data points from different reliable indexes and surveys where countries around the world are compared in ways that relate to traveling experience and satisfaction.

So let’s take a look at how Norway rates as a travel destination for the average tourist, based on relevant data points and survey results:

You can click on each category for a deeper look into the data and the sources, or simply keep scrolling to look at how we arrived at these ratings, one by one.

Visitor Accessibility – How Easy Is It to Travel To & Within Norway?​

For this category, we’re trying to establish how convenient it is to travel to Norway, and how easy it is to get around in the country when you’re visiting. If you’re visiting as part of a bigger trip we’ll look at distance in travel time from different European cities, and we’ll also try to gauge how the country’s infrastructure holds up compared to other countries in order to figure out if it’s easy to get around in Norway.

Looking at how popular Norway is for visitors, how long they stay, and how the country’s reputation ranks globally, we can get a good sense of how people in general rate Norway. I’ve also chosen to include total area to get a sense of how much there is to explore in the country as a whole.

To get a sense of how Norway ranks as a destination for expats and visitors, we’ve looked at a massive global index that ranks countries based on factors relating to quality of life.

We can definitely learn a lot from looking at the big data in the previous section, but I also wanted to include how actual visitors of the country rate Norway in different areas related to quality of life, which can give a good idea of how it is to visit the country. A great way to find out how good a country is for travelers is to ask the people who have actually visited the country.

I looked at three independent surveys which asked expats and visitors what their experience in Norway was:

We’ve touched on the cost of travel in Norway already, but I wanted to give an idea of actual costs travelers may be interested in, as reported by visitors (and verified by myself on my own visits).

Other important factors for travelers to consider before deciding on their travel plans are how many attractions there are, how excited other travelers seem to be about the country, how attractive the country’s natural assets are, and what the country’s main attraction categories are:

Finally, you get a pretty good sense of a country by looking at its capital city and how it stacks up against other capital cities, specifically when it comes to factors that are relevant for travelers.

Data sources: 1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  8 ,  9 ,  10 ,  11 ,  12 ,  13 ,  14 ,  15 ,  16 ,  17 , 18

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By Karl Andersson

As a native Swede with a Finnish mother, Karl identifies as both Nordic and Scandinavian. He left Sweden at 19 to explore the world, and stayed abroad for almost 8 years—during which he backpacked, worked every job there was, earned a degree from UC Berkeley, and met the future mother of his children. He ultimately returned to his native Malmö with his love, where they now have 3 Swedish-American boys eager to explore the world.

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How to visit Norway on a budget

Mar 20, 2024 • 8 min read

Norway has lots of outdoor activities that are either budget friendly, or completely free © Try Media/Getty Images

Let’s not beat around the bush: Norway is expensive. The historically weak Norwegian krone (NOK) has made it a bit less so recently however. But even if exchange rates change, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget without missing out on the fantastic experiences the country has to offer visitors. All it takes is a bit of strategic planning and adaptability.

Perhaps Norway’s greatest attraction is its spectacular scenery, with endless opportunities for everything from active adventures to rapt contemplation of majestic views on a budget. Best of all, Allemansretten ( the right to roam) gives everyone the right to freely enjoy nature, even in national parks, as long as you behave responsibly and follow certain basic rules.

Here are some tips to help you explore Norway without breaking the bank.

Daily costs

• Hostel room (dorm bed): 300-600 NOK
• Basic room for two: 800-1300
• Self-catering apartment or cabin: 600-2000 NOK
• Local public transport ticket: 40-150 NOK
• Coffee: 25-50 NOK
• Sandwich: 65-200 NOK
• Dinner for two: 400-1000 NOK
• Beer/pint at the bar: 80-100 NOK

Average daily cost : 1500-3000 NOK per day

Buy a city pass to save on urban attractions

If you’re planning to visit numerous ticketed attractions in major cities, a discount pass can save you a fair amount of money. In the capital, the Oslo Pass is available for 24, 48 or 72 hours, and includes admission to 30 museums and other attractions. You'll also get unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts at restaurants, the Oslo Philharmonic and the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet .

In Norway’s second city, the Bergen Card offers similar benefits including free or discounted admission to attractions, free travel by bus and light rail and discounts on tours, dining, shopping, parking and performances. The card is available for 24, 48, 72 or 96 hours.

In the far north, Tromsø has half- and full-day passes that provide free admission to the city’s top attractions as well as free bus and cable car rides.

Opt for parks and nature over ticketed attractions

Norway’s many beautiful, vibrant cities and towns are well worth visiting, but the country’s greatest appeal lies in its stunning and diverse nature, from rugged mountains and vast alpine plateaus to rolling green countryside and deeply carved fjords. Hike to a waterfall, bike a winding mountain road, or paddle a kayak on a tranquil lake or fjord – the possibilities for inexpensive outdoor adventures are endless.

Take the subway to Frogneseten on Oslo’s northern outskirts and admire the views as you descend on foot to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump , or hike up Mount Fløyen in Bergen for great views of the city (or take the funicular up and walk back down). In Ålesund , the stunning panorama of the city, mountains and fjords from the Aksla viewpoint is well worth the 418-step climb to get there. Just about everywhere you go in Norway there are beautiful walks, views and picnic sites to enjoy free of charge.

Join the Norwegian Trekking Association for discounted lodging in remote areas

If you’re planning to spend a lot of time in wilderness locations, the approximately 550 cabins operated by regional branches of the Norwegian Trekking Association (Den Norske Turistforening, DNT) can be great options for accommodations. These range from staffed lodges with meal service to self-service cabins, including some stocked with basic provisions.

Joining DNT gets you member pricing for overnight stays, including key access to self-service cabins with a deposit. You also get discounts on several privately run lodges and mountain hotels.

Reserve tickets early for transport deals

Book in advance for better chances of nabbing discounted train tickets (called Lowfare on the national rail operator, Vy), which are offered as much as 90 days in advance and can be several hundred kroner cheaper than the regular rates. Buying bus and train tickets in advance online or through the operator’s mobile app is usually cheaper than buying them in person.

Avail yourself of public transportation

Norway is a fabulous destination for road trips , but rental cars and fuel don’t come cheap. Fortunately, the country has an excellent public transportation network of trains, buses and ferries. With a bit of planning, it’s possible to get almost anywhere you might want to go, and without the need to keep your eyes on the road you’ll be able to give your full attention to those captivating views. In many cases, the journey itself is the main attraction.

The rail route from Oslo to Bergen easily ranks among the world’s most spectacular, linking the country’s two largest cities as it climbs from the densely populated east through green agricultural valleys to the windswept Hardangervidda plateau, before descending to the dramatic fjord region.

Boats connect destinations throughout the fjords and range from fast passenger ferries to car ferries that you can also walk onto (often for free). There’s also long-distance and regional bus service between cities and other destinations throughout Norway.

Make breakfast or lunch your main meal

If you’re staying in hotels, you’re in luck: many have fabulous breakfast buffets with a huge selection of hot and cold foods that can easily keep you full for a good part of the day. It's usually ok to grab an extra piece of fruit to take with you as a snack for later on. At some hotels, the staff won’t even blink if you make a sandwich or two to go.

If you are going to eat out, doing so at lunchtime rather than dinner will save you money – many restaurants have daily lunch specials.

Hit the supermarket and cook for yourself

Norway has a wide range of self-catering accommodations, from hostels and cabins to apartments. Buying food in grocery stores and preparing your own meals is the best way to keep dining costs down. Rema 1000 and Kiwi are generally the cheapest supermarket chains.

If you really want to shop strategically, download the Mattilbud app to see current deals at grocery stores all over Norway.

Another way to save is to seek out Asian grocery stores, which are found in most cities and are good places to pick up rice and other staples as well as fruits and vegetables at significantly lower prices than at mainstream Norwegian supermarkets.

Skip the alcoholic beverages

Alcoholic beverages are heavily taxed in Norway, at anywhere from 3.40 NOK to 22.15 NOK per liter, depending on the alcohol percentage. There’s also an additional tax on beverage packaging. A night out at the pub can easily leave you with a hefty tab to pay, and buying alcohol in shops will also set you back a fair bit.

You can’t shop around, either, since only drinks with an alcohol percentage under 4.7 percent can be purchased in supermarkets – for anything stronger, you’ll have to go to the state-run liquor store, Vinmonopolet.

If you have a special occasion you'd like to toast during your time in Norway, your best bet is to stock up at airport duty free shops when you arrive. However, be sure to check out the latest information on allowable quotas to avoid exceeding your tax-free limit.

Carry a reusable water bottle – and a thermos

Norway’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world, so there’s absolutely no need to buy bottled water. Instead, bring a reusable bottle and fill it at any faucet. Apart from avoiding lots of single-use plastic, the kroner you save quickly adds up.

If you’ll be outdoors a lot in cooler weather, consider bringing a thermos so you can brew up some coffee or tea at your accommodation in the morning before setting out and enjoy a warming drink without having to pay for it in a cafe.

Bring your own linens for hostels and cabins

Many budget and self-catering accommodations charge additional fees to rent bedding bundles consisting of sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers, so if you’re planning to stay in a lot of cabins or hostels, packing your own bedding can save you a fair amount of money over the course of your trip. The same goes for towels. Many campgrounds and other locations with cabins and apartments have laundry facilities where you can wash your linens and other items.

Visit during the shoulder seasons

Unless you have your heart set on specific dates , consider visiting just before or after the summer high season, which typically runs from mid-June through mid-August. By visiting just outside this window you’ll still have good chances of reliable weather, but finding inexpensive accommodations will likely be easier due to the lack of crowds.

As a bonus, these seasons are among the most beautiful in Norway, with flowers galore in May and early June – when you’ll also have the benefit of long days – and gorgeous fall colors in September.

Choose a hub and stay for a while

It can be tempting to try to cover a lot of ground during your stay in Norway, but with amazing scenery and recreational opportunities everywhere, you can have a fantastic trip while exploring a more limited area. By picking a few places to spend quality time, you can maximize your sightseeing time, avoid long travel days and save money.

Staying in self-catering accommodations for several days in a row also makes it easier to save on meals by stocking up on groceries rather than buying in small amounts or having to toss foods that won’t stay fresh on the road.

This article was first published July 2023 and updated March 2024

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Norway Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 13, 2023

To top it all off, Norwegians are wonderful people, almost everyone speaks fluent English so it’s easy to navigate, and the scenic fjords are never far from sight.

And, since Norwegians love nature, there are a lot of free outdoor activities that can fill your days without emptying your wallet. Wild camping is also free here as well, making it the perfect destination for outdoorsy travelers.

I’ve loved all my visits to Norway. I am always blown away by the landscape, architecture, and friendly people. It’s definitely not a country to be missed, even if you are on a budget.

Use this travel guide to Norway to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful nation!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Norway

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in norway.

1. Check out the fjords

Surrounded by high cliffs, the fjords of Norway are world renowned and breathtakingly beautiful. Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord near Bergen are two of the most popular. Other fjords worth seeing include Aurlandsfjord (near Flåm), Lysefjord (near Stavanger), and Trollfjord (near Tromsø). There are tons of ways to experience Norway’s natural beauty whatever your style is, from doing a fjord cruise , a kayaking tour, or going on a scenic hike to fully take in the unique landscapes.

2. Explore Oslo

Oslo is a beautiful small city of just under 700,000 people. Here you can browse the National Gallery, explore the Akerhus fortress, check out the Viking Ship Museum, see the Royal Palace, spend an afternoon strolling the Aker Brygge wharf, or sail around the city on a boat tour . Don’t miss Vigeland Sculpture Park either, with its 200 unique statues. The city is also surrounded by wilderness, offering plenty of places to hike, bike, swim, and camp (and, of course, cross-country ski in the winter).

3. Visit Bergen

Bergen is home to tons of hiking trails as well as some of the most scenic fjords in the country. Check out the fish market, stroll through the historic Gamle Bergen, climb the medieval Rosenkrantz Tower, or hike up Mount Fløyen to get a picturesque view of the city below. Just two hours outside Bergen, you can enjoy the guided walks (suitable for all levels) on the Folgefonna Glaciers and marvel at the colors of the spectacular “blue-ice” hike. Folgefonna National Park, home to the massive golden eagle, is accessible by public transportation too.

4. See Lofoten

Lofoten is a picturesque scenic area in the far north well worth the effort (and cost) to get to. There are beautiful fjords to cruise , mountains, wildlife, and a slower pace of life that makes this place seem magical. Plus, there’s no shortage of activities to take advantage of, from excellent fishing and plenty of opportunities for kayaking, photo tours, sailing trips, horseback riding, and more. This is also one of several spots to see the Northern Lights mirrored in the water of this unique archipelago. It’s one of the most sought-after photography destinations in the world.

5. Tour Trondheim

Known for its bright and colorful buildings, Trondheim is a laid-back city filled with students. Located in the middle of the country, it’s a fun destination to party and enjoy late nights out. Be sure to take a stroll through the Bakklandet neighborhood, see the Old Town Bridge, and visit the spectacular medieval Nidaros cathedral that has attracted pilgrims from Oslo for the last 400 years. The Rockheim culture center is a tribute to the history of Nordic rock music from 1950 to the present with interesting interactive exhibits and displays. If you visit in winter, don’t miss the Ice Domes (an ice hotel that you can visit on a tour or stay at overnight — for a hefty price!).

Other Things to See and Do in Norway

1. take a free walking tour.

One of the best things you can do when you arrive in a new city is to take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land and learn about the culture, people, and history of the destination. You can find free walking tours in Oslo and Bergen — tours that give you much more insight than any guidebook. Just be sure to tip your guides at the end!

2. Hike to the Preacher’s Pulpit

Preikestolen (Preacher’s Pulpit or Preacher’s Chair) is one of the most famous landmarks in Norway (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram). An unusually flat and wide surface located atop a cliff, the iconic Preikestolen is only reachable by hiking a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) trail. With around 200,000 visitors per year, you’ll want to make sure you arrive early in order to take some photos without all the crowds. The hike is free and relatively easy though you’ll need to pay 250 NOK to park your car. June-September is the best time to go. Guided hikes of Preacher’s Pulpit (with transportation) start at 990 NOK.

3. See the stunning national parks

Norway is host to some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the world. With 47 national parks (and over 3,000 protected areas), Norway offers everything from waterfalls and glaciers to reindeer, lynx, and wolves — and much more! You can also enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities, from caving and canyoning to rafting and ziplining. Consider a visit to Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to the largest glacier in continental Europe; Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella National Park, which has tons of hiking and also lots of wild reindeer; or Jotunheimen National Park, which is home to over 200 mountains you can hike and climb. The national parks are all free to enter (though there are fees for parking).

4. Journey to the North Cape

The northernmost tip of Europe, Norway’s North Cape is great for hiking, trekking, road trips, and more. Located almost 2,000 kilometers (1,242 miles) from Oslo, here you can explore the jagged coastline of Finnmark county, which includes six national parks. In the summer, the midnight sun shines for 2-3 months straight (May-July), while in the winter there are 2-3 months of complete darkness (November-January). You don’t get more remote than this!

5. Explore Tromsø

Perfect for a 24-hour party, Tromsø in the summer is a city that doesn’t sleep because the sun is up 24/7! Located in the Arctic Circle over 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles) north of Olso, tourists come here to experience unbroken sunlight amidst the city’s many pubs. Or, if you happen to visit in the dark and cold of winter, you can catch the vibrant northern lights . It’s also a world-famous fishing destination and home to incredible, postcard-perfect fjords. Like Lofoten, this is one of the best destinations in the country for photography.

6. Enjoy some winter sports

Norway is one of the top ski destinations in the world. Rauland, Geilo, Skeikampen, and Hemsedal are all great options for snowboarding, telemark skiing (which mixes Alpine skiing and Nordic skiing), and 2,600 kilometers (1,615 miles) of cross-country skiing paths — and they’re all just a few hours from Oslo. Lift tickets range from 300-450 NOK per adult. Expect to pay more on the weekends (the slopes are busier on the weekends too).

7. Eat at the Bergen Fish Market

Open daily, this market offers more than just fish. Come here for a glimpse into the local culture and history of the city (this market dates all the way back to 1200 CE). Explore the many stalls, snap some pictures, and check out the waterfront. It’s just a short walking distance from many museums and galleries too (the Art Museum, the Hanseatic Museum, and the Leprosy Museum are all nearby). If you have access to a kitchen, grab some fish to take back for dinner. It’s one of the more affordable places to buy fresh fish in the city.

8. See the Vigeland Sculptures

If you are in Oslo, don’t miss these sculptures. Located in Frogner Park, this unique collection is the world’s largest display of sculptures created by a single artist. Gustav Vigeland created all 212 statues in this 80-acre open-air “gallery.” It’s one of the most popular places in the summer to have a picnic, relax, people-watch, and enjoy the fleeting summer sun. It’s free too.

9. Stroll around Gamle Stavanger

One of the oldest parts of Stavanger, this area is composed of narrow cobblestone streets lined with old wooden homes built during the 18th century. Taking a walk down here is like stepping back in time. After World War II, all of the city’s wooden buildings were replaced with concrete and stone buildings — except for this section. Be sure to check out the various paintings, pottery, and other artisanal works by local artists in the area.

10. Check out the Royal Palace

Built during the first half of the 19th century, the Royal Palace in Oslo was the creation of King Charles III who ruled both Norway and Sweden at that time. Today, it’s the official residence of the monarch (Norway is one of a dozen countries in Europe that still has a monarch). Be sure to see the changing of the guards at 1:30pm each day (it lasts around 40 minutes) and spend some time relaxing in the 54-acre park that surrounds the palace. The palace is open during the summer for guided tours (self-guided tours are not permitted) which cost 175 NOK. (Currently closed for guided tours until June 2023).

11. Wander the Ringve Music Museum & Botanical Garden

Located in Trondheim, this unassuming museum has an awesome collection of unique musical instruments from all around the world (there are over 2,000 in the collection). The museum is in the botanical gardens so there are 32 acres of plants and trees to see as you stroll around. The museum also has rotating exhibits from time to time so check the website to see if anything is on during your visit. Admission is 140 NOK and children under 15 enter free. Closed Mondays.

12. Visit the Norwegian Folk Museum

There are many museums throughout Oslo showcasing Norwegian history and Viking tales, but this is the most interesting. Home to over 150 buildings, this open-air museum lets you immerse yourself in the history of the country. The biggest attraction is the Gol Stave Church, which dates to 1200 CE. Other incredible sights to see are the 14th-century farmhouses and the 18th-century tenement buildings. This is a fun activity that blends entertainment and education, so it’s a great choice for anyone traveling with children. Admission is 180 NOK in summer and 140 NOK in winter.

13. Attend Stavanger’s jazz festival

Held every May, MaiJazz is a weekend-long festival featuring some of the most well-known jazz artists in the world. The city gets bustling and crowded so be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. The weather might be balmy as well so make sure you bring a coat too. Ticket prices vary for each performance (you pay per performance, not for a festival ticket). Most are between 450-750 NOK.

14. Hike Trolltunga

Located 4 hours from Bergen, this is one of Norway’s most famous hikes. Trolltunga (which means “troll’s tongue” in Norwegian) is a 12-hour hike that takes you to a long outcropping of narrow stone that towers over the landscape (the rock looks like an outstretched tongue, hence the name). The journey is challenging but the reward is one of the most scenic views in the entire country. You can only access the hike from June-September without a guide (you need a guide for the other times of the year). Parking is 600 NOK per vehicle but be aware there are also toll roads en route.

  For more information on specific cities in Norway, check out these guides:

• Bergen Travel Guide
• Oslo Travel Guide

Norway Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation (much like everything in Norway) is not cheap. Hostels start around 300 NOK per night for an 8-person dorm. Private rooms start at 700 NOK. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have lockers and self-catering facilities if you want to cook your own food.

Most hostels charge a 50 NOK surcharge for linens, as is the custom in Scandinavia. You can bring your own but you cannot use a sleeping bag instead.

Budget hotels begin at around 700-900 NOK for a basic double room, however, budget hotels are also rare. Mid-range hotels (think 3-star hotels) are much more common, with prices starting around 800 NOK. For a hotel with a pool, expect to pay at least 1,200 NOK per night.

Private rooms on Airbnb can be found around 500 NOK per night while a whole apartment or house costs at least 750 NOK per night. Be sure to book early, otherwise prices can double (or even triple).

Wild camping is a budget-friendly option as it is legal (and free) to camp almost anywhere in the country. Norway has ‘Freedom to Roam’ laws (called “Allemannsretten”) that allow anyone to camp anywhere for up to two nights as long as it’s not on cultivated land. You’ll need to make sure you are not camping near someone’s house, that you take all trash with you when you leave, and that you aren’t in a farmer’s field or garden. But other than that, you can pretty much pitch your tent anywhere!

If wild camping is not your thing, campgrounds are also common though many require a Camping Key Europe card. You can purchase it for around 200 NOK. Most campsites have modern facilities, including toilets and showers. Expect most plots for two people without electricity to cost 150-350 NOK per night.

Food – Norwegian cuisine focuses heavily on seafood. Smoked salmon is a local favorite and one of the country’s staples. Cod is also super popular, as are prawns and crab (locals host “crab parties” when they are in season). Lamb is the most popular meat, and open-faced sandwiches are the go-to choice for both breakfast and lunch (usually composed of dark bread, cheese, and either meat, seafood, or vegetable topping).

Overall, the food is expensive here. A lot of food has to be imported so anything that isn’t grown here is going to be pricey. Street food like hot dogs cost 45 NOK and you can usually find “cheap” meals for under 200 NOK at inexpensive restaurants. For a multi-course meal with table service, expect to pay double that.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 120 NOK for a combo meal while Chinese food starts at 150 NOK per main dish. A basic large pizza starts at 110 NOK (140 NOK for one with more toppings).

Beer at the bar costs around 95 NOK though you can get it for less than half that price if you buy it at the store. Lattes/cappuccinos cost around 45 NOK while bottled water is 30 NOK.

Grocery shopping here is the cheapest way to get by on a budget. Expect a week’s worth of groceries to cost around 725 NOK. This includes basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Norway Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 600 NOK per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like swimming and hiking. If you plan on drinking, add 50-150 NOK per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 1,500 NOK per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for some meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a couple of drinks, and do paid activities like museum visits or opera performances.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,600 NOK or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do more paid activities and guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in NOK.

Norway Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Norway is expensive. There’s no two ways about it. It’s one of the most expensive countries in the world and you will be hard pressed to save money if you aren’t cooking all your meals or camping. Ultra-budget is not impossible, just difficult. Here are some tips to help you save money in Norway:

• Cook your own food – Food is very expensive in Norway so the best thing you can do is cook your own meals. Go grocery shopping and stick to cheap local staples. Avoid eating out!
• Eat cheap – If you do decide to eat out, your cheapest options are shawarma and pizza. They can be found all around the country.
• Couchsurf – Use Couchsurfing to connect with locals and get free accommodation. It’s the best way to save money and make new friends who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp – Free public camping laws allow you to wild camp in the parks and public lands for free. You can generally stay 1-2 nights in an area as long as you are quiet and respectful. Make sure to leave the area as you found it!
• Get a tourism card – The best way to afford all the attractions in a city is to get a city tourism card. Oslo and Bergen both have tourism cards that can save you money if you plan on seeing a lot (they include free public transportation too).
• Book in advance – If you can plan your transportation in advance, you can save up to 50% off the cost of your train or bus tickets. Buying last-minute tickets means it’s going to be more than any budget traveler can afford, especially if you want to visit a number of destinations in Norway. Book in advance and save money!
• Stay sober – At 100 NOK per drink (or more!), going out for drinks destroys your budget. While Norwegians love to go out and have a good time, if you are on a tight budget, skip the booze!
• Buy your drinks at the store – If you do plan on drinking, buy your drinks at the Vinmonopolet (the state-run chain of stores that sell alcohol). You’ll save 50% or more doing this!
• Travel with friends – If you rent a car (which is the best way to get around) try to find people to join you to share costs. You can use the Couchsurfing platform or just ask around in hostels to find people. This will help you save money on gas and rental prices — which can eat into your budget quickly!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Norway is super clean, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and lower your plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter so you can always ensure your water is clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Norway

Hostels are not all that plentiful across Norway (they’re usually just in the larger cities) so be sure to plan accordingly. Here are my suggested places to stay while you’re in Norway:

• Anker Hostel (Oslo)
• Cochs Pensjonat (Oslo)
• HI Bergen Hostel Montana (Bergen)
• Lillehammer Hostell (Lillehammer)
• Tromsø Activities Hostel (Tromsø)

How to Get Around Norway

Public transportation – Public transportation in Norway is modern, clean, and reliable. Buses and trams are common in each city; only Oslo has a metro system. Single tickets cost around 39 NOK and are usually valid for one hour. You can get a 24-hour pass in Oslo for 117 NOK and a 7-day pass for 323 NOK.

You are able to get on most buses and trams without showing a ticket, however, patrols are common and the fines are heavy if you get caught without a ticket. Don’t risk it — always buy a ticket!

Bus – Buses are a cheap way to get around the country, though they are slow and rather limited since the distances between cities can be large. For example, the 8-hour journey from Oslo to Stavanger costs around 115-450 NOK each way while the bus from Oslo to Trondheim takes around 9 hours and costs around 780 NOK. Prices can double when not booked in advance.

Vy Buss is the most common bus company, though you can also find deals with Nor-Way Bussekspress and Flixbus .

Train – Trains are the best way to get around Norway (unless you’re on a road trip). They are often faster than buses without costing much more — and they are much more comfortable. The 7-hour trip from Oslo to Trondheim costs as little as 360 NOK while the 6.5-hour trip to Bergen from Oslo can cost as little as 290 NOK. The trip from Oslo to Gothenburg, Sweden takes under 4 hours and can be done for less than 250 NOK.

Reservations should be made in advance as you can often find great deals that way. Last-minute tickets can be double what I quoted above!

Flying – Flying around Norway isn’t super cheap, but it’s also not that expensive. From Oslo, you can reach most destinations in the country (as well as destinations in Sweden) for as little as 500 NOK (one way) if you book early and are flexible. Norwegian Air is the main domestic carrier, though SAS also flies several major routes.

Car Rental – Renting a car is the best way to explore the country, however, it’s not cheap if you’re a solo traveler. Expect to pay 470-900 NOK per day for a vehicle if you rent for at least a week. Most rental vehicles are manuals as well, so keep that in mind when renting (you usually have to pay more for an automatic). If you don’t have someone to travel with to keep costs low, check at the local hostels or on Couchsurfing to find people to travel with so you can split costs.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Norway

The ideal time to visit Norway is from June to August when the weather is warm and the days are long. The country is at its liveliest during this time and locals take advantage of the good weather at every opportunity. The parks are always full, and there are usually fun events happening on the weekends. Temperatures are often in the 20s°C (60s and 70s°F) during the summer. Not too hot, but warm enough to swim, hike, and lounge about.

The downside to visiting then is that, since Norway has a very short summer, the cities can get busy so be sure to book your accommodation in advance. That being said, “busy” in Norway is a far cry from “busy” in cities like Paris or London.

The shoulder season (May-June and August-September) makes for a good time to visit as well, with temperatures ranging from 4-10°C (40-50°F). May typically has decent weather with occasional rain, while September gives you cooler temperatures and changing leaves. You’ll beat the crowds and still be able to explore on foot without the weather getting in your way (too much).

Attractions begin to close around September/October (including some hiking trails). The days get dark early in October and temperatures start dropping around this time too. However, prices also decrease and you’re likely to find cheaper airfares and accommodations during this time. Be sure to pack layers (and rain gear) if you plan on visiting during this time of year as it can be quite cool — even during the day.

The winter is very cold and sees a lot of snow and darkness. Temperatures plummet below freezing. The plus side of traveling during the winter is that accommodation is cheaper and fees for certain attractions are lower. This is also the prime time to see the northern lights or go skiing, so there is still plenty to do if you plan on visiting during the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Norway

Norway is one of the safest countries in the world. In fact, it ranks 17th on the ranking of the world’s safest countries! However, in cities like Oslo, it’s still good to keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially around the train station and on public transportation. Incidents are very rare, but it never hurts to be aware of your surroundings.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) but it’s unlikely anything will occur. Check out one of the solo female travel blogs on the web for more specific information on safety.

If you go hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you go as well.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. While break-ins are rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Scams here are rare here but you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for police, 110 for fire, and 113 for ambulance services.

At the end of the day, always trust your gut instinct.Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID as well. It never hurts to be prepared!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Norway Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Norway Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Norway travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Spend 48 Hours in Oslo

The 22 Best Things to Do in Oslo

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bergen, Norway

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

It's much cheaper to travel in Norway!

… especially if you are travelling with dollars, euros, pounds, or Danish kroner in your pocket. The Norwegian krone (NOK) is historically weak, which means that travelling in Norway has become far more affordable for most visitors!

NOK is historically weak

NOK hit a historical low against the dollar and the euro in 2023 , as well as many other currencies, making the country a less expensive destination.

On November 9th, 2023, the exchange rates were as:

1 euro = NOK 11.98

1 USD = NOK 11.19

1 GBP = NOK 13.74

100 Danish krone (DKK) = NOK 160,59

100 Swedish krona (SEK) = NOK 102,75

That means that for 100 euro, you will now get around NOK 1197, while 100 dollars give you NOK 1119. An average hotel room for two, with a good breakfast included, will typically cost around NOK 1350 (2022), 115 euro/125 dollar, though you can expect to pay a bit more in the big cities and in popular places during high season and holidays. 

Norway is much more affordable

Although it has long been perceived as a high cost country, the truth is that Norway has been quietly becoming more affordable for many travellers for years, even despite rising inflation.

Norway has also become more affordable forScandinavian and British travellers in particular, and also for visitors from the Eurozone. In just the last year, the euro and the dollar have gained about 15% and 18% respectively on the Norwegian krone (NOK).

The Danish krone (DKK) is up 15%, while the Swedish krona (SEK) is up 10%, and the pound is worth about 8% more in Norway now than it was at around this time in 2022.

Scroll down for great budget holiday tips !

Not the most expensive anymore

Norway is still a high cost country, and has also been hit by soaring inflation, higher energy prices, and financial unrest, like many other Western countries, as a result of the war in Ukraine and other global challenges. But inflation has also been a bit lower than in many other countries, and energy remains quite inexpensive in several parts of the country.

Norway does not top the list of the most expensive countries in Europe (that dubious honour goes to Switzerland and Iceland in 2022, based on Mercer’s exhaustive 2022 cost of living index rankings).Moreover, Oslo is no longer on the top 20 list of the most expensive cities in the world , according to the annual  Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) survey.

If you don't drink much in bars and restaurants, and don't smoke, consumer prices are not that different from what you find in many Western European countries and big cities these days. Meat and dairy products might be a bit more expensive, though, but if you look at animal welfare, and care about the environment, you may fell that the extra krone  spent are worth it.

And the most important reason for many travellers to visit Norway is totally free: nature ! Learn the secret of Friluftsliv , enjoying the great outdoors, and why it is so good for your health, too!

Budget travel tips for Norway

Many of the best things in Norway can also be experienced for free or done cheaply:

• Our beautiful nature is open 24/7 and is totally free, including the national parks and our famous scenic routes .
• Many of our great sculpture parks are free.
• Buy local food in the grocery stores or farm shops and picnic at one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Or go fishing and catch your own food!
• Limit the amount you consume in bars, and buy wine, Norwegian cider and other drinks at Vinmonopolet, the government liquor store, or pick up some local craft beer at the grocery store.
• Buy tickets for transport early for the best prices, and travel outside the main tourist season. Look for regional daily, weekly (or even monthly) travel passes that give you major discounts.
• Stay longer in every place to reduce travel costs and get discounts for longer stays. We promise that you can find much more to do in the local region than just the iconic bucket list items!
• Rent apartments or cosy cabins , and travel with a bigger group. This reduces costs per person, and you can cook meals at the place where you are staying.
• Travel outside high season to get the best prices. Hotels in big cities can be expensive during holidays and in high season, but often offer cheaper deals during weekends. An average hotel stay in Norway is in fact often quite moderately priced compared to other Western European countries.
• Most museums offer discounts for families and groups. Some are even free.
• Read the article below for more tips on budget travel in Norway!

Budget-friendly accommodation

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Norway Trip Cost – Save Time & Money

In order to assist you in reducing your Norway Trip Cost, we have put together some advice on how to plan and manage your budget and time here below:

How to Save Time on Your Norway Trip

• Make a clear list of the main things you want to give priority to see and do while here. Figure out best loop for reducing travel time and expenses. Then start looking into suitable accommodation along your route.
• Consider renting a car while here – this option can be worthwhile if you are traveling 2 people or more together. You can then go where you like and when you like, making stops at scenic places and easily divert off the main tourist track and see the hard to get to places. We find that with a rental car you are likely to see much more compared to if you base your travels on public transport. Keep in mind that parking in bigger cities are expensive – a good reason to come see provincial Norway where life is still good.
• Try to plan your stay in such a way that you avoid backtracking the same route to the extend possible. Many people take the train from Oslo to Bergen and then backtrack to Voss and the fjords for several trips. You can avoid this by planning your overnight stays better and breaking your trip up into smaller journeys.
• Nordic Ventures can quote you for private shuttles from most locations in Western Norway when joining us for our tours – if we are available we will be happy to offer transportation beyond what is normally included in our tours at very competitive rates. This can easily reduce your  overall Norway Trip Cost and time, especially if you have at least 4 people traveling together.

How to Reduce the Norway Trip Cost

• Increase the length of your stay.
• Avoid backtracking on your itinerary – public transportation in Norway is expensive and why pay for the same thing 2 times?
• Occasionally buy your lunch in a supermarket and make your own sandwiches out in nature – which is plentiful in Norway, a good choice of selections are available and you may sample some of our local food at a reasonable price
• Bring a water bottle and frequently fill it with local tap water. Norway enjoy some of the cleanest and purest water worldwide so why spend money on expensive bottled water and burden the environment with littering of plastic bottles.
• Research accommodation early and if possible at all book early – specially if you are traveling during peak season, otherwise you may find yourself paying more than you have to for second choice accommodation. Check the cancellation policy before you book so you know where you stand in case you have to change your plans.
• Bring your duty free allowance into Norway, a couple of bottles of wine, alcohol or some beers, – prices in Norway are higher and you cannot buy alcohol in many places.
• Check out the value of our overnight tours – if you combine costs of accommodation, food and transportation you will see that it is actually not much more expensive to go on a guided and fully catered experience with everything included. ( our 5 cents worth of advertising placed here )
• Again – consider renting a car. It could possible help reduce your overall travel expenses if you are 2 or more people together, – TIP: Most Campsites in Norway offer Camping huts/cabins in addition to camping or camper van sites. These huts are usually very reasonable priced and if you do a bit of homework and call around you can prebook them so you can arrive late knowing they are not sold out. This can give you big savings and allow you to spend less time in accommodation and more time out seeing things while not relying on public transportation timetables to get back early.
• Again – if you are not going to rent a car, Nordic Ventures can quote you for private shuttles from most locations in Western Norway when joining us for our tours – if we are available we will be happy to offer transportation beyond what is normally included in our tours at very competitive rates. It can save you time and money but is normally more cost efficient if you are at least 4 people traveling together.

The above are just a few hints to how you can ensure you will get the most out of your stay here. If you get stuck at any specific point in your planning you are welcome to send us an e-mail and if it’s something we can help you figuring out we will try. If it is beyond our capacity we will let you know too.

If you are coming to Norway with a group of minimum 6 people and up it may also be worthwhile asking us for a quotation for a private and custom designed trip taking you to all the right places at the right time. Our Professional guide can stay with you for a few days or a week+ , you decide – we are experts in custom tours that travel through Western Norway. We can design a tour for your group meeting you as you arrive in the airport, all transport, accommodation and catering included throughout the trip. We will normally use a combination of camping, guesthouses, farmstays and hotels on these trips. Our activities offered can be included or excluded from these custom trips as per your preference. We need a fair amount of information from you in order to come up with the best way to reduce your Norway Trip Cost – best provided by phone or e-mail.

Feel free to contact us for more detailed information on how to get the most out of your Norway Trip Cost.

15 top tips for visiting Norway on a budget

Norway is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most expensive tourist destinations, but don’t let that deter you if you’re travelling on a budget.

Even those with the smallest wallets can make the most of the country’s amazing nature, history and culture without breaking the bank. Just follow our 15 money-saving tips and you’ll be able to travel round the country like a king or queen – all on a shoestring budget.

Search for bargain rooms and rentals

Although accommodation in Norway may be one of your biggest expenses, there are ways to keep the price down. Make sure you do your internet research beforehand and book accommodation as far in advance as possible for the best deals.

Booking.com is a good place to start for great hotel deals, and they also have a good range of budget hostels and guesthouses on their site. In addition. In addition, Airbnb has the largest range of private rooms and properties to let, from grass-roofed traditional log cabins to a penthouse with harbour views in the heart of Bergen.

The good news for tourists is that rates at upmarket city hotels are often cheaper in summer and at weekends, when business bookings are low.

Join a hotel loyalty scheme

If you’re staying in several hotels around the country, you can try joining a hotel loyalty scheme. Schemes such as Scandic Friends , run by Scandinavia’s largest hotel chain, offers discounts at its hotels at weekends and during holidays – and the more of its hotels you stay in the more discount points you earn.

You can also consider becoming a member of Hostelling International (HI) – this gives you discounts at lots of good-quality hostels across Norway.

Use discount cards

To get the most out of a city break, it’s worth buying a discount card which gives reduced or free admission to museums and sights, and often includes public transport too. Getting the Oslo Pass is a great way to save money in the capital, for example. See our guide on whether the Oslo Card is worth buying for your trip .

Meanwhile the  Bergen Card  covers all the city’s buses, plus the light railway from the airport into the centre, as well as free or discounted admission to some of the city’s major attractions including the Fløibanen funicular and the KODE museums.

Go wild in the country

Camping wild is free and legal everywhere in Norway, as long as you pitch your tent at least 150 metres away from the nearest inhabited house or cabin. This also applies to camper vans and caravans.

Other than in the mountains or very remote areas, you need to ask the landowner’s permission if you’re staying for more than two nights in the same place.

But otherwise, camping wild in Norway is a great way to save cash and keep accommodation costs down – so grab your tent and get camping. Check out our ultimate guide to camping in Norway for all the gen.

Grab ‘Minipris’ tickets while you can

You can reduce the price of Norway’s trains by booking your ticket in advance and buying a Minipris reduced ticket . A limited number of these are released each month, and they can give you significant discounts on the price of a normal ticket.

Minipris tickets are particularly worthwhile on longer train journeys, as the further you travel, the higher the discount. Officially, you can buy these advance tickets up to one day before travel, but there are only a limited number on sale, so you’ll have to get in early to bag a cut-price fare for the most popular routes and dates.

Check out the nature

You don’t have to shell out loads of money to visit man-made tourist sites in Norway, since the country’s greatest attraction is its outdoor nature – and this is free for all to see.

From waterfalls to mountains and stunning viewpoints over picturesque indented shorelines and fjords – all these are free to visit under Norway’s ‘Right to Roam’. This applies to all unfenced land and includes most shorelines, bogs, forests and mountains. This is the perfect opportunity to lace up your hiking boots and get exploring, while keeping to a strict budget.

Take a tour

It may not seem like the budget option to shell out on a tour to visit some of Norway’s amazing natural sites, but sometimes it can be cheapest way. Some of the more remote fjords and mountains can be hard to access by public transport and may well involve buying several expensive bus and boat tickets. Or you may need to rent a car, which can be pricey.

It can often be cheaper – not to mention much easier – to take an organised coach trip direct to the site – and you get an experienced guide thrown in too! Check here for some good-value organized hikes .

Use the bottle shop

If you really want to save money, don’t drink in Norway! Or, if you do get a hankering for a glass of wine or a beer, copy the locals and have a drink at your accommodation before going out.

You can buy weak beer from local shops and supermarkets, but for all other alcohol you’ll have to visit the state-owned Vinmonopolet , or bottle shop. Here you can buy wine at not-too-unreasonable prices (for Norway, anyway), plus spirits and stronger beers.

Most larger towns have at least one Vinmonopolet store, but note that they have limited opening hours; they tend to shut by 6pm in the evening, and at 3pm on Saturdays. They are also closed on Sundays and public holidays. It can be a bit of a shock if you’re visiting from a country with more liberal licensing laws, so if you want a bottle of wine for the evening take our advice and plan ahead!

Rent a car (or a ‘wreck’)

Trains and buses in Norway can quickly get expensive and if you’re travelling in a group, it will probably work out cheaper to hire a car . It also means that you can visit those hard-to-access places and make as many selfie-stops as you like at the amazing viewpoints en route.

Car rental can be pricey, but if you are not too bothered about having a brand new vehicle or the latest model, Rent a Wreck hires out reasonably priced cars. Bear in mind, though, that if you are driving long distances, they have strict mileage limits which can rack up the cost.

Whichever option you go for, don’t forget to factor in the price of the fuel. Despite having plenty of oil, Norway still has some of the world’s most expensive petrol.

Visit Norway’s free museums

Some of Norway’s museums and attractions offer free entrance on one day of the week or month, while others are free all year round, so check out their websites and plan your itinerary accordingly.

The Arkitekturmuseet (National Museum of Architecture) in Oslo, for example, is free to enter every Thursday, while the Bymuseet (The City of Olso Museum) is free on the first Saturday of every month. In addition, several museums offer free entrance all year round, including the city’s Akershus Fortress and its Armed Forces Museum (closed until the end of 2020).

Make the most of your hotel breakfast

Most hotels and many hostels include an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet that will set you up until midway through the afternoon. The substantial self-service breakfasts at decent Norwegian hotels usually include cheese, eggs, cold meats and pickled or smoked and fresh fish, plus bread, jams and cereals – so if you fill your boots at breakfast you can probably skip lunch.

Love your lunch

If your accommodation doesn’t include breakfast, you’ll find it much cheaper to have your main meal at lunchtime. Norway’s cafés and café-bars, some self-service, dish up generous portions of food throughout the day, and usually have a good-value daily special available. Look out for the dagens rett  on restaurant menus.

Some specialise in traditional dishes , others in more international fare. And if you’re not bothered about eating Norwegian cuisine, you can usually get a good value lunch at some of the country’s ethnic restaurants, from Thai to Middle Eastern to pizza.

Eat al fresco

In summer, Norwegians need no excuse to head outdoors with a grill and cook al fresco. Some parks and open spaces have built-in barbecue areas, but if not you can simply buy yourself an engangsgriller (disposal barbecue) for around 30 NOK and join the locals in the park – or any green space really. It’s a cheap and sociable way of having dinner.

In Oslo? Go sledging by metro

If you’re in the Oslo region and want to experience the slopes without needing an expensive lift pass, consider taking the metro up to the top of the slopes.

Oslo’s popular Korketrekkeren toboggan run starts at Frognerseteren metro, so grab a sledge and ride all the way down to Midtstuen metro station, where you can get the train back up again. You can hire sledges at the top, but if you bring your own it’s completely free. There are loads more free things to do in Oslo in this guide .

And finally: don’t forget insurance!

Norway is a safe place but our advice is very simple: you still need travel insurance . Yes, you’ll have to shell out on a policy before you go, but it can save you a small fortune if things go wrong when you’re in the middle of nowhere watching the northern lights.

Make sure you shop around and get a few quotes and check that your policy doesn’t include any extras that you don’t need. The best policies also offer trip cancellation cover, so that you get your money for your tour back if you have to cancel. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers 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.

See also: How to eat on the cheap in Oslo Visiting Bergen on a budget Which are the cheapest Scandinavian countries to visit

6 of the best small Danish islands (and how to visit them)

You may also like.

8 great hiking tours in Norway

Hiking to Pulpit Rock

The best beaches in Norway

Where to go skiing in Oslo (and nearby)

Norway in a Nutshell: the DIY option

A guide to Norway’s best waterfalls

5 of the best places to stop on Norway’s Atlantic Road

Where you should stay in Norway to visit the fjords

Norway’s best national parks

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Norway is an amazing country to travel in. Thanks for your good guide and the photos were so beautiful.

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How Much Does a Trip to Norway Cost?

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Posted Mar 22, 2023 in Travel Information

Posted Mar 22, 2023

Are you wondering ‘how much does a trip to Norway cost?’ when researching your dream trip to this beautiful Scandinavian nation? Well, your Norway vacation cost may actually be much less than you expect!

Whatever your budget, you can enjoy a fun and adventurous trip to Norway. With plenty of free attractions and natural scenery to explore, Norway has so much to offer for visitors on every kind of budget.

Discover the cost of accommodation, transport, admission to famous attractions. Likewise, all about food and other key expenses on your vacation with our ultimate Norway trip cost guide. Let’s dive right in!

Is Norway Expensive for Tourists?

You may have heard that Scandinavia is famously expensive for tourists. High Norwegian salaries mean both the standard and  cost of living in Norway is higher than many countries.

While Norway does live up to its reputation of being an expensive place to visit , you can definitely enjoy an affordable Norway vacation. The best places to see in Norway are actually free to access!

Most tourists travel to this beautiful Scandinavian country to see the stunning natural scenery. There are plenty of free and fun ways to experience Norway’s awe-inspiring natural spaces.

How Much is a Trip to Norway?

The cost of a trip to Norway can vary greatly, depending on the choices you make about where to stay and what to d o. For example, eating out for each meal will definitely increase your Norway vacation cost significantly. Whereas cooking for yourself can lower your budget dramatically.

For around 800 Krona ($75 USD) a day, you could stay in a hostel, prepare your own meals and enjoy free activities around Norway.

With around 1500 Krona ($140 USD) a day, you could stay in a private Airbnb room, enjoy some meals out and some paid activities. For a private hotel room, you’ll need to budget around 1200 Krona ($120 USD) a day.

Can you stretch your Norway vacation budget to around 2700 Krona ($250 USD) a day? Then you can stay at a high-end hotel or rent an apartment. Indulge in paid excursions (such as a beautiful fjord cruise or sunset cable car ride) and sample some of the best Norwegian restaurants.

Accommodation Costs in Norway

While hotels, guesthouses and hostels can all be expensive, there is a range of options to suit all Norway trip budgets . Renting an apartment can start from around 960 Krona ($90 USD) a night, but most will cost 1500 Krona ($140 USD) a night or more.

For around 540 Krona ($50 USD) a night, you can find a hostel or even a private room in Norway. You may be able to get special deals and discounts if you plan to stay for an extended period of time, which can keep your total Norway trip cost down.

The good news is that camping is either free or cheap , with plenty of wild camping spots and dedicated campgrounds to choose from. A very popular option for exploring Norway, camping lets you get up close and personal with the gorgeous nature.

Whether you choose camping in a tent or  renting a campervan in Norway , this option will save you a few bucks. And give you freedom to explore to your heart’s content.

Norway Food Prices

You may be surprised to learn that Norway food prices are actually affordable when shopping at the supermarket . If you’re on a budget, you can choose own-brand products and cook more meals for yourself. This is actually a great way to learn some traditional Norwegian recipes!

It’s a good idea to budget more for food than you likely would do at home because most goods in Norway do have higher costs. For example, a loaf of bread costs an average of 30 Krona (just under $3 USD) and a 1.5 liter bottle of water costs around 21 Krona ($2 USD).

If you’d like to experience some Norwegian cuisine, you can take a trip to some local food trucks, pop-up restaurants, street food vendors or fast food joints.

For a more lavish experience, you can enjoy a restaurant meal out. An average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs 200 Krona (around $18 USD). And a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant in Norway will set you back about 900 Krona ($85 USD) for two people.

Transport Costs in Norway

Public transport is a great and fairly inexpensive way to travel around Norway. Transport costs in Norway are around 40 Krona ($4 USD) for a one-way public transport ticket , and taxis cost 15 Krona ($1.50 USD) per kilometer.

A brilliant and cost-effective way to travel around Norway is by campervan. Combine the two costs by investing in a rental motorhome in Norway for your trip, allowing you to sort your accommodation and travel at the same time.

Traveling by campervan will allow you the flexibility and freedom to enjoy whichever parts of Norway call to you for a very reasonable cost.

Famous Norway Tourist Attraction Admission Prices

As we’ve mentioned, many of the most famous and beautiful tourist attractions in Norway are free to visit. If you fancy spending a bit on some paid attractions, here’s a guide to some of the main experiences to help you factor these into your Norway trip cost:

• The Fram Museum in Oslo for maritime and polar exploration - 145 Krona ($13.50 USD)
• The Viking Planet Museum in Oslo - 260 Krona ($24 USD)
• City sightseeing bus - 450 Krona ($42 USD)
• Fjord cruise - 450 Krona ($42 USD)
• Funicular in Bergen - 120 Krona ($11 USD)
• Guided three-hour walking tour, e.g. of Bergen - 1700 Krona ($160 USD)
• Pulpit Rock guided hike - 900 Krona ($85 USD)

Some of the best free attractions and places to visit in Norway are: Vigeland Park, the stunning fjords, Trolltunga and Oslo City Hall. Also, the Botanical Gardens in Oslo, Kjerag Mountain and Sognsvann Lake. We also recommend exploring the beautiful cities of Tromso and Bergen, as well as going on a Northern Lights hunt in Northern Norway.

Top Tips to Budget for Your Norway Trip

Make your Norway vacation the best it can be with our top tips for saving money during your time in this spectacular and unique country.

• Book ahead of time - Keep your Norway trip cost down by booking as much as possible beforehand. This includes accommodation, rental vehicle and ticket attractions. Norway is (unsurprisingly!) a popular tourist destination, so things tend to sell out quickly. Guarantee the best price by booking as early as possible.
• Book attractions online : Booking tickets for attractions can be cheaper online, so make the most of the discounts!
• Travel passes and city cards : There are travel passes available to help you save money when exploring a particular city, such as the  Bergen Card . These passes often include public transport travel and free admissions to major attractions, such as museums and more.
• Self-guided tours : A major way you can reduce your Norway trip cost is exploring the beauty of Norway for yourself, without a guide. This is perfectly possible for most attractions. Be aware that some more difficult hikes do require a guide.
• Travel in low season : If you’d really like to lower your Norway vacation cost, we recommend planning your Norway trip for during the low season. Experience Norway covered in a blanket of snow and beat the crowds. All while enjoying lower prices in general when visiting Norway during winter.

Make Your Dream Norway Vacation a Reality!

Convinced to make your dream Norway vacation a reality? Let’s start by planning your dream itinerary. Then, take a look at reserving your accommodation and transport online to work out your total Norway vacation cost.

Take a look through our range of affordable Norway campervan rentals to get an idea of the campervan and motorhomes we have available for you. Let us know if you have any questions and we look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful home country soon!

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7 Ways Norway Travel Isn’t as Expensive as You Think

October 1, 2022 by Silvia 152 Comments

Edited October 2022

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve told someone that I live in Norway and run a Norway travel blog (you can read why I chose to move to Tromsø, Norway here ), and they’ve sighed and said that they would love to visit Norway someday, but it will have to wait until they have enough money.

I hate hearing this, because I hate the thought of someone putting off a trip to Norway, perhaps indefinitely, when they really don’t need to. Because while yes, any Norway travel guide will tell you Norway is more expensive than a lot of other places, it doesn’t have to be prohibitively so. There are tons of ways to keep your Norway vacation cost down.

And you don’t want anything to stop you from going to Norway, because guys, never in the 80+ other countries I’ve traveled through have I experienced anything quite like this drop dead gorgeous country.

Rauland, Telemark

It’s hard to find truly useful advice for budget travel to Norway, I guess because most backpackers don’t stay in Norway long enough to learn all the budget hacks here, while Norwegians, well, make Norwegian salaries.

Norwegians are the first to admit that their country is really expensive, but the truth is most Norwegians can afford to live in Norway in an expensive way. And the secret is that there are ways to avoid those expenses, if you really want to.

In fact when I first moved to Norway my aunt warned me that I shouldn’t expect to be able to save any money while living in Norway, yet even when I was working four days a week at a supermarket  I saved an average of $1,300 a month without really watching my finances. These days this travel blog is my full-time job and I still save money here, so traveling to Norway on a budget is totally possible.

I’ve written a few guides on how to travel Norway on a budget

How to Find Cheap Transportation in Norway

How to Find Budget Accommodation in Norway

How to Eat Cheaply in Norway

And I’ve written a couple of destination specific guides for Norwegian cities and accommodation :

Read about things to do in Bergen, Ålesund, Trondheim, Lofoten, and the fjords here

Read my accommodation guides for finding the best hotels in Norway for your budget here

And if you want to see the Northern Lights , this is the best place to see Northern Lights in Norway .

And now let’s do something about that notion that “Norway is just insanely expensive.”

Norway Travel Guides!  I’ve gathered all my best advice for planning an incredible trip through Southern and Northern Norway in two 95-page ebooks covering my top recommendations for places to visit (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and how to plan the perfect itinerary.

You can  purchase the Norway Travel Guides here .

1. The Norwegian krone is super weak right now

This is the number one reason that everyone who is even a bit interested in Norway should visit, like now.

I can’t remember the Norwegian currency ever being this weak, and it makes a huge difference in prices here. As in, suddenly everything in Norway is 30% cheaper than it usually is for American visitors, which means that suddenly everything here is, well maybe not cheap, but certainly affordable.

This is how many Norwegian kroner 1 USD has been able to buy over the past decade – no, Norway was not cheap in 2012! via XE

I’ve asked a lot of people about it and most people here seem to think that the krone will stay weak for the next year, but then it will strengthen again, so you should probably come soon, before this 30% off sale is over!

Hardangerfjord

Ålesund, Norway

2. It’s beautiful everywhere – check my Norway travel blog posts for proof

You don’t have to cover huge distances to see Norway at its best, because it is stunning absolutely everywhere.

How does this help you as a budget traveler in Norway? Well, it means that you don’t have to visit tons of different destinations in Norway in order to experience its beauty. In fact, you really can just fly to Bergen for a weekend break and you’ll see more stunning scenery than you would spending days on the road in some countries. Read my tips for the best road trips from Bergen here . 

Though I should add that there is a catch: if you visit just one place in Norway you will definitely be coming back to see more.

Read also:   18 Ridiculously Helpful Norwegian Habits You Should Adopt

Bakklandet, Trondheim

3. The best things to do in Norway are free

People don’t come here for the amazing shopping, booming nightlife (ha!), or really anything that you have to pay for. People visit Norway to see the nature.

Okay yes, you could spend a lot of money on a fjord cruise or rail adventure (and it will totally be worth it), but you can also hike up from whatever city you flew into and it is going to be breathtaking. This is one of my favorite things about living in the Norwegian mountains – even just walking around my cabin I find myself catching my breath in awe of this place.

  A post shared by Silvia Lawrence (@heartmybackpack) on Nov 22, 2017 at 10:33am PST

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4. You can camp anywhere

Yes, even hostels in Norway are laughably expensive, but if you really want to visit and can come in the summer, just bring a tent. You can camp basically anywhere here (as long as it’s 150 meters from the nearest house or cabin) which makes travel so much easier. It also means you can be more spontaneous with where you go!

If wild camping isn’t your thing, Norway is full of campgrounds, many of which also have cabins available for those who really aren’t into the whole sleeping in a tent thing – and they’re usually quite cheap accommodation compared to staying at a hotel or guest house.

Click here for my full post on finding budget accommodation in Norway

And if you’re planning to stay in Norway for a while, housing is pretty affordable, especially if you’re making a Norwegian wage.

I currently pay $2000/month for a two bedroom apartment in the center of Tromsø, which certainly isn’t cheap, but it’s the only apartment on the top floor of my building and has a stunning view of the city and surrounding mountains. 

5. Store brand supermarket food is actually quite cheap

Food in Norway is expensive. A loaf of bread can easily cost you $5 – except if you choose that whole wheat loaf in the plain white package which only costs $1. You see, every supermarket either carries their own cheap store brand version of most food staples, or they’ll sell “First Price” brand food, which is always a fraction of the cost of everything else.

A lot of people say the store brand isn’t as tasty, but I usually can’t tell the difference (especially when we’re talking about vegetables) and it will definitely be fine for budget travelers in Norway.

And don’t think this means you have to stick to bland, un-Norwegian food during your trip to Norway – just buy the cheap version of tinned mackerel, smoked salmon, and cloudberry jam and you can still have have the cultural experience of indulging in Norwegian food!

Click here for an depth post on eating in Norway on a budget

6. Education is free

Yes, even for international students. And yes, there are loads of programs taught all in English. Go get yourself a free Master’s degree!

And if you’re Norwegian you can actually get paid to study. I know, what? It’s like they think education is important or something.

Read also: How I Make Enough Money Blogging to Live in Norway

7. Norwegian Air is super cheap

You know how everyone visits Iceland these days as part of the free Icelandair stopover? Well, Norwegian Air is quickly making Norway a more affordable destination as well.

In fact, Norwegian often offers the cheapest flight to Europe both from Asia and the U.S., which means that you can squeeze in a weekend in Norway before catching a budget flight to your final European destination and actually end up saving money.

So, who’s visiting me this summer?

Lian, Trondheim

Hardangervidda

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Rachel says

April 20, 2016 at 1:22 pm

As we shall be in Norway in less than two weeks this is very reassuring Silvia! We’ve heard how welcoming Norway is for campervans. I know fuel is going to be expensive but then, it’s expensive here in UK too! It’s good to know that there is value to be found in the supermarket. All that glorious nature, those epic views, and fresh air is free! Oh my goodness, I’m so freaking excited!!!!!!!

Sophie says

April 20, 2016 at 3:30 pm

What an awesome article! Norway is at the top of my list and you have convinced me to want to go even more than I already did haha. Beautiful photos – such a wonderful country!! 🙂

http://www.travelmatters.co/

Silvia says

April 22, 2016 at 10:01 am

Norway definitely deserves a spot on that list!

Abdelkader says

May 16, 2016 at 9:37 pm

i really like Norway ; such beautiful country; i live in ALGERIA ; & wanna visit norway .. bringing a tent is nice solution but how is the weather there in summer ? how many degree !!!

November 15, 2017 at 10:31 am

It depends a lot on where you are and just, how lucky you are. I’m from Bergen and summers can be anything from 12 celcius and rain to 25 celcius and sun (mostly rain though, Bergen is famous for it’s rain). In Oslo and the south east parts weather is usually better. In the far north it can be warm, or it could snow you never know. Basically hope for the best but be prepared for the worst, and check the weather before you go anywhere. Also if you want to hike up a mountain, even just a short day trip, always bring extra warm clothes, weather can change quickly and be very cold and harsh even if its warm and sunny by the coast.

Amanda Elizabeth - Meet at the Barre says

April 20, 2016 at 4:01 pm

It looks like a fairytale land there. Thank you for this incredibly helpful pos.

It is a bit like a fairytale here 🙂

Baldpacker says

April 20, 2016 at 5:35 pm

Great post and your definitely right about the low kroner making it a bargain for some foreigners (though the Canadian and Aussie dollars have also dropped a lot so not a big help to us!)

Are you living in Trondheim? I’ve planned a 6 hour layover there on my way to Svalbard and am looking forward to it even more after seeing your photos!

April 22, 2016 at 10:03 am

Well then at least the kroner is weak as well, otherwise you’d be in big trouble, ha. I no longer live in Trondheim, but I used to and can say you’ll have a lovely stopover! The airport is really close to the city (buy a roundtrip bus ticket in because it’s cheaper) and I would recommend just walking around Bakklandet and then crossing over the old wooden bridge and walking through the park to the cathedral. That’s at least the prettiest part of town in my opinion.

Van @ Snow in Tromso says

April 20, 2016 at 7:34 pm

I agree that Norway can be pretty cheap for budget travellers and people earning Norwegian salaries but if you’re living here as a foreign student, it’s hard as hell. I mean, now I am actually earning more than enough money but when I first moved here on my German student loans? I was miserably most of the time cause I couldn’t go out and have fun at all. Life in Norway can be quite depressing when you’re a student, especially if you come from abroad. And don’t make it sound like Norwegians are actually being “paid” to study – it’s a loan after all 😉

But for everything else – totally agreed! There’s so much beautiful nature to explore, that you just don’t have to pay money for any attractions or tours. Even though people actually do spend hundreds of dollars on Northern Lights and dog-sledding tours here. I mean, I kinda understand it cause they think it’s the trip of a life-time but then again, you CAN see the Northern Lights for free 😀

April 22, 2016 at 10:09 am

Haha you’re right, I’m totally writing this from an American perspective! If you study in the US you’ll most likely be in debt up to your ears, so most students live on ramen noodles and can never afford to go out anyway, so to me that’s totally normal. But I guess it’s different in Europe and so it would be annoying to not be able to go out with all the other students, as that seems to be a big part of the culture here. I didn’t make a Norwegian wage for the first few months I was living here and actually thought living on a tiny budget was totally manageable, but my friends were also happy being boring and just hanging out at home mostly, I guess because we are old, ha. Oh and I was referring to the government grants, not the loans!

And yeah, I think it’s funny when people ask me for Northern Lights tour suggestions because I’m like… the only times I saw the lights were just from going outside at night so…

May 4, 2016 at 12:37 pm

The government grant really is a government loan, and if you pass your exams 40% of that will be written off, or turned into a grant as they say. And you still have to work on the side to earn a living unless you live at home, or you could possibly get by if you don’t live in Oslo. A lot of students will work their asses off during summer to keep them afloat for fun stuff.

Also, the dollar used to cost 10 NOK 15-16 years ago.

Hallgeir Aronsen says

May 4, 2016 at 4:39 pm

The US dollar have never been more than 9,8 nok. That was back in 1985. In 2008 it was under 5 nok. Today US$ is 8,15 nok. And yes it is likely that nok will become stronger in the next year…

May 18, 2016 at 2:50 pm

As an American, it’s pretty crazy that 40% of your loan can be written off simply by passing exams, and most students I know in the U.S. have to work full time beside their studies to keep afloat – only working summers would be a dream!

May 5, 2016 at 4:10 am

I totally agree that it is a beautiful country… but don’t expect to see the Northern Lights by just going outside while you are there. Yes it can happen and does happen, but I lived just north of Trondheim for three years and have had 5 trips to Norway, and not once had the chance to see the Northern Lights though it is on my wish list. The two winters after I left they could see the Northern Lights from Trondheim and down to Oslo, and again in the spring. Good luck to you if you manage to catch them, but don’t think that by going to a particular place or at a particular time that you will definitely see them.

I will return to Norway, it is a beautiful land and has much to offer.

May 18, 2016 at 2:52 pm

Oh no, what bad luck! But you’re right, you do need luck on your side to see the Northern Lights, especially in southern Norway.

Jeanna Bauer says

April 20, 2016 at 8:18 pm

Okay Okay Okay – See you soon! <3

April 22, 2016 at 10:10 am

Justine says

April 21, 2016 at 3:53 am

It appears that I need to get myself to Norway stat! Yeah, it’s a shame how many places I’ve avoided visiting because I thought they were too expensive. The more I travel, the more I realize that it is possible to visit “expensive” countries on a budget. You just have to keep an open mind and be creative. Hmm, I wonder if there are cheap flights from Beijing!!

April 22, 2016 at 11:00 am

I bet there are cheap flights from Beijing! And yeah, I think the more of a habit budgeting becomes to you the easier it is to do it, even in a supposedly expensive country.

April 21, 2016 at 4:19 am

Lovely post! Makes me want to visit Norway even more!

You should make it happen!

May 6, 2016 at 8:05 pm

Hi, id like to have a masters degree in Morway,its on top of my list but i was wondering whether i will be able to find a job in the meantime to earn some money and make my life a little bit easier. Is that even possible for me if i only speak english?

Our Wanders says

April 21, 2016 at 10:58 am

Oh it’s great encouragement! And definitely, money is the most common excuse for not visiting Scandinavian countries – ours, too, for the most part, because we prioritize more affordable countries higher on our list first. 😀 We are looking forward to your budget guides!

April 22, 2016 at 11:01 am

After traveling through Eastern Europe I thought Norway would be a huge shock to my budget, but it really wasn’t! I think it really is all about priorities 🙂

April 21, 2016 at 6:51 pm

Though I’ve not been to Norway, people kept saying the same thing to me when I went to Stockholm last year. It’s not THAT expensive, especially from the UK, the prices weren’t that different at all.

Glad to hear about how much you’re able to save while working 4 days a week – I’m looking at Masters degrees and there’s an amazing one in Trondheim and I was a little worried about whether I’d be able to afford it on a part-time job.

April 22, 2016 at 11:02 am

I think the masters would definitely be doable if you had a job! And Trondheim is such a lovely city and really perfect for students, just saying 🙂

April 25, 2016 at 12:42 pm

Yeah, I’ve been doing some research and it seems that getting a part-time job isn’t as easy as it is in the UK due to the competition, and it seems being able to speak the language is a big advantage – I guess I better start learning Norwegian!

Renate @ Renate's Travels says

April 21, 2016 at 7:21 pm

I love that you’re such a great ambassador for this beautiful country we live in, Silvia! Awesome post 😀

May 3, 2016 at 10:48 am

Haha my Norwegian friends always make fun of my enthusiasm for this country. Can’t stop!

Natalie @ In Natalie's Shoes says

April 22, 2016 at 9:29 pm

These points are very well made! And your photos are stunning! I’m itching to get to Norway now more than ever!

May 3, 2016 at 10:49 am

You should plan a trip here – it won’t disappoint!

becky hutner says

April 23, 2016 at 8:11 pm

Great great post Silvia. Really gives me the extra nudge to follow up on my friend’s invite to visit him in Norway! Only thing is, I have to wonder about the cheap store brand food — what corners are being cut in terms of fillers & additives & surely that fish is not wild? Unless Norway is leaps & bounds ahead of the western world in terms of making real food affordable?

May 3, 2016 at 10:56 am

Haha I was so curious about the cheap food too! So, as far as First Price food goes (the brand that my supermarket sells), it’s no worse than the other non-organic food in the store. It’s actually mostly just cheap to attract shoppers to stores that sell it, and they also do really simple packaging and branding. In fact I know that the bread comes from the same bakeries, it’s just put in plain white bags, haha! But of course if you want to eat really clean, organic food, you’ll have to pay more (though happily organic milk here is only 1 krone more than regular!).

April 24, 2016 at 9:16 am

Thanks for this article! Came right on time for my June trip to Norway 🙂 Are there some specific advices you can give to a female solo traveler visiting the fjords? I can’t wait to come and wonder around these beautiful sceneries and to be honest I see this trip as a pilgrimage – to connect with the mother Nature again.

May 3, 2016 at 11:04 am

Oh that’s going to be such a wonderful trip! Norway is incredibly safe, so it should be easy traveling alone as a woman here. The only thing is that some people can take a while to warm up or can be introverted, so don’t worry if people you meet don’t talk too much, haha. But I think everyone will be really welcoming to someone traveling on their own, and you’re going to see some really stunning sites!

April 26, 2016 at 3:23 pm

Great post! I’ve only visited Oslo in Norway but I’m dying to go back and explore more parts of your beautiful country. I wrote a post about budgeting in Oslo too, while it’s definitely not a cheap city, I had a wonderful time without taking a loan from the bank 😉

Victoria@ The British Berliner says

April 30, 2016 at 7:25 am

It’s so true! I’m hoping to find a way to visit this summer. And what’s stopping me at the moment? Trying to squeeze it into going to Sweden, Denmark, Russia & France! Thanks for giving us more inspiration Silvia!

Miriam says

May 3, 2016 at 9:35 am

Of all the Scandinavian countries, Norway definitely gives you best value for money. But you’re right though, it doesn’t have to be that expensive. You just have to know where to buy cheap food and be a little creative when it comes to accommodation. It’s the same in Denmark 🙂

Amanda says

May 4, 2016 at 12:56 pm

I had always heard that Norway is beautiful but I never even considered making a trip there because everyone says it’s the most expensive country. Now I’m thinking that maybe I do need to consider visiting Norway after all! Your pictures are amazing by the way!

If you want to see Norway you can definitely find a way to make it work with a small budget!

Benjamin Cattley says

May 4, 2016 at 6:57 pm

Great article! My girlfriend and I are Americans (although she is half Norwegian) and have been living in Trondheim for 2 years. The best things in Trondheim are free! Totally agree.

May 18, 2016 at 2:51 pm

It’s so true! Hope you guys are loving Trondheim 🙂

Lisa Rein says

May 5, 2016 at 10:08 am

Thank you! I have lived here for ages and always get the same excuse! This post is very informative 😀

May 18, 2016 at 2:53 pm

Right? I here it all the time!

Stein-Arne Hedberg says

May 5, 2016 at 7:17 pm

Nice article, you are welcome to visit Norway. But beware it’s some restrictions on tenting. Especially close to Oslo, if I remember correctly. But if your on “unfenced land” what you write is spot on. Check out more helpful info here. http://www.visitnorway.com/plan-your-trip/travel-tips/right-of-access/

AJAY KUMAR SHAH says

May 6, 2016 at 7:31 pm

I have got chance to study in Hedmark University of applied science, hamar. I would be coming in august. i found your post to be very expressive and helpful. thank you

May 11, 2016 at 9:16 pm

Perfect post. Looking forward to the budget tips that you will be posting. I took the plunge and moved here two months ago and need some tips on the budgeting sides. Doesn’t help speed ding nearly kr5000 on a night out and getting in at 6am. One downside is the Taxi drivers just don’t know where to go in Oslo.

Padi Phillips says

June 29, 2017 at 2:03 pm

Hell, 500 NOK is only about £50, so about the same amount as a belting night out in Cardiff, Wales, except, hopefully, without the vomit or violence on the streets!.

May 11, 2016 at 9:47 pm

I’m an international student and i’ll visit norway in August. Have read wonderful things about Norway. So so so much exited to visit 😛

Javier says

May 17, 2016 at 4:29 am

I´m Javier, from Mexico City, do you think is possible for me visit there? Sounds wonderful but expensive. I’ve studied films in Denmark, but I couldn’t go up there. And thank you for the articule, was very inspirational.

Charlotte says

June 17, 2016 at 9:45 pm

Ah man seeing your photo’s I just can’t wait until this summer! Norway here I come! <3

Mateus says

June 30, 2016 at 6:53 pm

I am booking a flight withing 2 weeks to hike from odda to jotunheimen. Could use some heads up

June 30, 2016 at 9:29 pm

Ooh how fun!

Abigail says

August 6, 2016 at 9:56 am

Am planning to visit norway in two weeks time From what have read here Am sure I’ll love it.

August 8, 2016 at 1:08 pm

Ooh I’m sure you will – have fun!

July 24, 2016 at 5:14 pm

hi. i live in trondheim. i arrived here 2 months ago and will leave at the end of agoust. i wanted any advice from u concerning what i should visit in this city or around… as it’s the last month i dont want ro miss anything. thanks in advance

July 26, 2016 at 9:50 pm

Have you been up to the lakes around the city? You can take the tram up to Lian and explore around there. Hmm otherwise I just liked walking around the city, but I guess you’ve done that loads. I’m not really an expert on Trondheim, but just enjoy your last month there and try to get outside a lot!

August 5, 2016 at 10:05 pm

I will be traveling to Norway for about a week during my fall break portion of studying abroad in Salzburg, Austria. I have a friend who lives in Eidsvoll, Norway, so I am going to visit her for my break. She used to live in the U.S. like I did, so she has an idea of what Americans like to go see, but she has lived there for a while. Is there anything that you would recommend for a tourist and a local to go see? I don’t want her to be bored going to a lot of places that she already goes to, but I really want to experience everything I can while I’m there. Thanks! p.s. I also want to start a blog for my semester abroad. Do you have any advice on how or where to get started?

August 8, 2016 at 1:07 pm

I don’t know anything about Eidsvoll, but for me the special thing about Norway is experiencing the nature and seeing the cute houses and barns, so I wouldn’t worry too much about cramming lots of sites in. It’s a very laid back country and beautiful just about everywhere, so it’s not hard to do it justice! And you are so luck to have a local to show you around – I’m sure you will have so much fun! As far as blogging goes, you can read this post: http://www.heartmybackpack.com/blog/how-to-start-successful-travel-blog/ . Good luck, and have fun!

August 16, 2016 at 9:46 pm

Like to visit Norway soon

Dominika says

September 1, 2016 at 2:22 pm

Hi! So glad I’ve found this page, it’s perfect. We’re travelling to Norway on the 20th of september for a week. We have flight tickets to Oslo and thinking, what should we visit from there. Do you have any advice? I guess it’s enough time to visit Bergen as well. Oh and one more question, what the weather usually looks like in september? Isn’t it too chilly already? Anyway, looking forward to see the beautiful country!

September 9, 2016 at 11:49 am

It is a bit cold already – at least in the mountains – but september can also be quite warm, so maybe pack layers. I would definitely go to Bergen or you could even fly from Oslo to Ålesund and then rent a car and visit Trollstigen and Geirangerfjord – it’s the most spectacular nature I’ve seen anywhere in Norway and totally worth it if you have the budget. Otherwise I would go to Bergen (if you want to take the train book now to get the cheapest tickets). A lot of foreigners are really disappointed by Oslo because it’s not a beautiful city, though it’s definitely special in it’s own right. But you probably don’t need more than a day or two there. Have fun!

October 6, 2016 at 6:37 pm

I have just discovered your blog and I love it! About to embark on my gap year now, completing a TEFL so I can hopefully teach. Would you recommend Norway in December or will it just be dark all the time if I go too far north? Also is there any cheap way to hop around the country. I know a lot of people underestimate its size (I was in Oslo for 5 days and wanted to do a day trip to Bergen… haha when i realised it wasn’t that close!) We won’t have a car and I would love to go to Stavanger (to do the preacher’s pulpit), bergen, trondheim and the lofoten islands. Do you think it would be worth trying to book flights between these destinations? I really love hiking too so want to do as much as I can!

October 11, 2016 at 8:19 pm

December will be very dark, but it’s also quite magical here before Christmas! Though a lot of the hikes are closed in the winter. The cheapest ways to cover long distances are either booking the train far in advance to get the cheapest minipris (around 250 kr for one trip, regardless of distance) and flying. Sometimes you can find quite cheap domestic flights. Good luck, and have fun!

Ozgirl says

November 7, 2016 at 1:52 am

My partner and I are goign to be in Oslo for NYE basically arrive on the 31st and leave for Iceland on the 2nd. I was wondering if you had any ideas of what we shoudl do for NYE? I haven’t had much luck besides Stratos Hotel or the Radisson, Although I can’t see how to book a table or buy tickets?

November 15, 2016 at 4:31 pm

I asked around and people said maybe head up to the ski jump for some good views or around Aker Brygge. I’m afraid I don’t know much about Oslo, so I can’t be of more help!

January 24, 2017 at 6:29 pm

I love this post! I just recently wrote a blog post about how to budget travel through Norway. I went on my first solo trip to Norway back in 2014 and fell in LOVE with it!!! I literally looked into jobs there in media (that’s what I work in now-a major newspaper), but I didn’t find anything and I got sad! LOL Seriously though, I want to go back sooo badly, but this time venture up to Lofoten Islands. I’m pretty sure I could just become a fisherman (fisherwoman??) and live in those cabins for the rest of my life!!! hahah!! If I ever make my way back up there, which I’m hoping to do MAYBE next year, I’ll shoot you an email? 🙂 Love your blog and I love all your Norway posts!!!! Keep it up! 🙂

February 2, 2017 at 3:13 pm

Mm I would love to live in Lofoten as well 🙂 I’m headed there in March!

Agness of a TukTuk says

February 12, 2017 at 9:54 pm

The colors in your photos are just divine! I loved Norway, the food is absolutely delicious! Traveling itself is expensive, thinking about it, but there is always a way to travel within a budget. You just have to dig around for info and great write ups like this!

February 15, 2017 at 6:27 pm

It’s so true – you can always find a way to travel on the cheap!

Annely says

February 18, 2017 at 2:23 pm

Thanks for writing this! Just decided to go backpacking the whole month of august this year. Lots of (wild)camping and breath taking moments, looking forward to the many adventures.. 🙂

February 23, 2017 at 7:53 pm

Oh that sounds amaaazing!

BlackJohn says

March 27, 2017 at 6:53 pm

I have been to Oslo two times in my live. It is beautiful city and I must say you are really luck if you manage to save money because it is too expensive – at least for my pocket. For example; I was 5 days in Nordstrand (part of Oslo) http://www.kartoslo.com/bydel-nordstrand-kart/ That includes sleeping in a hotel, eating in supermarkets and visiting sights and my wife and I spent €1000. But I think I will go again if I have a chance.

March 29, 2017 at 2:59 pm

Oh wow, that’s crazy expensive! I hope you do come back someday.

Laura Horn says

April 4, 2017 at 5:04 pm

This has, by far, been the best post I could find about traveling to Norway. My husband and I are planning a trip in June to hike around for 5 full days. Are there any places between Bergen and Alesund that you highly recommend we go? We are ‘off the beaten path’ sort of folks and we would love a local’s perspective!

April 9, 2017 at 7:37 am

Yes! I’m actually just writing up a guide now to some off the beaten path places in the area. It’ll be published on Tuesday, so I’ll add the link then!

Deborah says

July 18, 2017 at 2:16 am

Silvia congrats on the amazing blog! I’m from Brazil and I’ll be traveling with my father for around 3 weeks in Norway during september. We are looking forward for a road trip thanks to your enthusiasm! Where would you recommend us to start and pass by to see beautiful views, roads, nice trekking, and chase northern lights?

July 27, 2017 at 9:19 am

I would recommend flying into Bergen and driving up to Alesund, and then if you want to see the Northern Lights you’ll need to drive or fly up to Tromso or Bodo. Have an amazing time!

July 23, 2017 at 12:47 pm

I am norwegian and totally agree with your points on budget travelling in Norway. As we do it all the time ! 😉 I live in Aalesund myself and have of course very short distances to some of the best places Norway can offer. The fjords, mountains and streams around here are so beautiful that they never stop to amaze me even after 50 years, and most people that live here really use the nature for pleasure. Hiking, fishing, hunting, boating..you name it. But also we travel other places, like the most known place maybe; Oslo. And I find Oslo ridiculously expensive ! Just parking the car for a day can cost you $100,-… I am not joking.

Norway has a lot of diversity. Oslo is the main hub for travel here I guess. But would be FAR down on my list of places I would recommend to to visit. Go further !

In short the most pictures you see from Norway is from the western and northern parts. Norway is a very long country and it is impossible to see it all in a week…or year. So narrow your plans. Investigate smaller places better and do not go too fast. This will also be cheaper as you will find better rent and food. If within budget rent a car. Even the smallest one. I think this is the best way to see the most in a limited amount of time. If I was to recommend a great trip is would be this:

1) Fly to Bergen if possible. 2) Bring a tent and fishing rod. Fishing is free in the sea. 3) Rent the cheapest car possible that can be delivered back in Oslo. 4) Drive with stopovers from Bergen to Aalesund. Sleep in the tent or rent one of the small cabins you will find in most camping parks. 5) Drive to Geiranger 6) Go from Geiranger to Valldal and camp somewhere between Valldal and Trollstigen. 7) Return to Oslo.

Ask locals for tips on hikes and attractions, food or housing. Norwegians are not cold at all in general. Try for yourselves and see. Most of us are more than happy to help, but of course we have idiots as well. Ignore these and keep on enjoying your vacation.

Remember to do the small things. Investigate the woods, streams. Look for life in the sea an in the air. I have seen crowds of tourist not noticing a big eagle just above them.

Norway is very clean. Help us keep it this way. Take care of your litter and leave every place at least as clean and nice as you found it. Welcome to Norway ! 🙂

July 27, 2017 at 9:05 am

This is incredibly helpful advice, thanks for sharing all your tips with us!

October 6, 2017 at 4:48 am

Our American family hosted an exchange student from the Norway four years ago, and what a great experience it has lead to! This summer we visited his family near Trondheim, and spent 12 days with them, seeing Trondheim, Tautra, Meråker, Alesund, Trollstigen, Geirangerfjord, Mt. Dalsnibba, Lom, Lillehammer, and Oslo before heading to Iceland. Norway is so beautiful, and yes, it is expensive, but it is worth it, and you learn to make choices. We know we will return some day and see more of this beautiful country!

October 6, 2017 at 1:24 pm

Oh wow, that sounds like an amazing trip – you saw some of my favorite places!

October 27, 2017 at 4:26 pm

Stellar articles! Really appreciate the time taken to provide your in-depth experiences!

October 28, 2017 at 4:22 am

Hey Silvia, Thanks so much for this post! I’ve been dreaming of visiting the Scandanavian countries. My wife and I own a hotel in El Nido, Philippines and had Norweigan guests recently who told us tons about the country. Budget guides for this country are always needed as their soooo soo expensive in comparison to other spots. Also, thanks for the Facebook group link! Super helpful. I’m sure you’ll see me there. Cheers, Mark

October 29, 2017 at 6:34 pm

Awesome, so glad it was helpful!

October 31, 2017 at 3:53 am

I recently returned from 8 days in Norway. (We visited this time last year too). We flew to Narvik, rented a car there and spent our time hiking in the Lofoton Islands- a spectacularly beautiful place. I loved it, will probably return but it was very expensive. We stayed in smaller B&B type places in Reine, Ballstad and Andenes. Typically we would eat only dinner in a restaurant, and would find the local grocery store for anything else. Gasoline for the small Subaru we rented was really expensive- I am spoiled here in the U.S. because we were paying what worked out to be almost $9 a gallon for gas. And the 25%VAT on everything also added to our high expenses. So while it can be done on a budget- we did it and have no regrets- it is expensive to visit Norway.

December 9, 2017 at 10:14 pm

Where is the best area to fly into to go on some backpacking expeditions (4-5 days) in the summer?

Sandhya Bhat says

January 1, 2018 at 10:58 am

Hi Silvia, This is Sandhya from India.We are planning to visit europe sometime in september 2018 and we dream to see northern lights – could you please suggest the best place and tour/guide – hotel which would not be very heavy on our pockets ? I have read that Trosmo is the best if some some guide / B&B there which could help us. And is it needed to be careful about high altitude sickness or so?

January 3, 2018 at 6:08 pm

I would actually recommend going to Abisko, Sweden, for the best chance to see the Northern Lights. You can find my post about visiting Abisko on a budget here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/sweden/northern-lights-abisko-budget/ And then if you want to go to Norway as well you can get the train from Abisko to Narvik for quite cheap (find tickets here: https://www.sj.se/en/home.html )

sathizjill says

January 8, 2018 at 11:10 am

Oh my god, this list is amazing! I am actually planning to visit. Thanks for sharing NORWAY

March 14, 2018 at 8:45 pm

Hi Silvia, could you comment on the “right to roam” law again. I have read about it from your own page and from several others but I guess I just need a black and white answer to my question which is, can I just walk out into the forest or a rocky field along any highway or country road and pitch a tent as long as I did not cross over a fence and I am not within 150 meters of a dwelling? I need to mention that areas with no buildings within eye site would be the spots that I would spend the night. I hope that question made sense thank you in advance for any help. -Matt

March 15, 2018 at 7:45 am

Yes, just make sure it isn’t farmland, but otherwise you should be good to go!

March 15, 2018 at 1:05 am

The bottom line is – Yes, you could live like a poor guy, eating at supermarkets, sleeping in a tent. showering with bottles, and not spend your entire saving in a 4 days trip to Norway. But at the same time you could visit wonderful places like Warasw, Barcelona, Berlin, Rome, Edinburgh and so on without thinking twice about every cent you spend. Norway, as well as Sweden & Denmark, are WAY WAY WAY WAY too expensive. Even too expensive for what they can offer, and they can offer a lot, especially Norway. Keeping away of these countries is the smart choice, as long as you are not rich. Period. This is not an belief, it’s plain truth. Just look for hotel & car rental prices. Look for the cheapest ones. Check the price of a beer in a pub. Then you will understand that you have NOTHING to do in these places unless you are rich.

March 15, 2018 at 7:44 am

You’re right, if you’re most interested in staying in nice hotels and eating in restaurants, don’t come here on a budget. If you love nature and don’t mind roughing it for beautiful views, then you will love Norway.

March 15, 2018 at 10:14 am

Douglas says

March 19, 2018 at 5:06 pm

I’ve been to Norway for travel several times (in fact I’ll be back there next week and again in January 2019), so I find these comments pretty interesting. It is true that Norway is more expensive than some other places I’ve traveled, but it’s possible to travel without draining your bank account. For example, my Bergen hotel is going to be a lot less expensive than a hotel (not even a medium- or high-end hotel) where I stayed a couple of weeks ago in Dallas, Texas. Another hotel (moderate price) I’ve booked for Bergen includes not only breakfast but a “light dinner” as well – which will save quite a bit. You just have to look for bargains and book a few weeks ahead of time. When you’re eating restaurants, you have to remember a couple of things: (1) Alcohol is expensive, so if you want to save lots of $, don’t imbibe. (2) Tipping is not required or even expected. A waiter told us that wait staff are paid a living wage and don’t depend on tips for their livelihood (the U.S. could learn a lot from that!), so if you want to leave something extra, just round up to the next krone or two. Finally, when we go back next week, we’re buying a Bergen Card which will give us “free” transportation on the light rail and bus systems and nice discounts to a lot of museums and other activities. In short, Norway is worth every penny you might spend on visiting.

BTW, one of the people leaving a comment talked about how inexpensive Rome is. REALLY?

April 17, 2018 at 6:32 am

I have planing to move to Norway, but yes I always think, Norway is expensive country, so I have to wait until I have enough money. But now I stop to thinking like that, because if I always thought like that I would never to go there.

Ahmed ditawy says

April 19, 2018 at 11:41 am

Hi,I am willing to pursue master degree in Norway but expenses are obstacles to me. How can I overcome this problem?

April 27, 2018 at 12:36 pm

Hey Silvia,

If what you say is true I am going to visit you.LOL You guys are lucky to get the education for free, the pictures of Hardangerfjord and Ålesund, Norway are so beautiful I kept staring.According to your blog airfare is cheap too. Norway is like a dreamland for every backpacker. Thanks for sharing these hacks.

April 28, 2018 at 4:53 am

Hi, I will be taking a road trip through Western Norway the first week and a half of June. I am planning on camping in a tent mostly, but depending on weather each day, I may choose to stay in a cabin at a campsite some nights if it is too rainy. How difficult would it be to find available cabins on the spot during that time of year? Or must I reserve days in advance? I would also like to have access to showers daily or at least every other day or so, not sure what the best method of planning this road trip is.

June 14, 2018 at 11:42 am

Love this blog and your tips to explore Norway on a budget! My friends and I will be in Bergen from July 14 to 21. So excited to do the fjord tour!

Jimena Jolley says

July 4, 2018 at 2:04 pm

Hi Silvia! This is so very helpful. It is my dream to visit Norway, and now that I just finished my master’s degree I can have a life again and travel. We will visit next June 2019 with my husband, daughters, and 2 friends! We are planning to visit Bergen and the Lofoten islands. Your blog has helped me immensely while planning this trip!!

July 9, 2018 at 11:09 am

Oh that sounds like it will be a wonderful trip!

tehransuite says

July 18, 2018 at 4:00 pm

awesome pics miss Silvia thanks for your great post

ClicketySnap says

July 19, 2018 at 1:16 am

Drooling over the pics and desperate to pack a suitcase… but that’s about 90% of my life when I’m not travelling 😛

I know this post was written a couple of years ago, has there been an updated version as cost of living and tourism changes or does much of the same information apply? I have been researching Working Holiday Visas in a few countries, but have been leaning towards Norway more and more.

August 22, 2018 at 12:44 pm

Another destination to include in my bucket list. You’re so fortunate to see and experience wonderful places

September 1, 2018 at 7:56 pm

I’m an Indian and I’m currently pursuing my Engineering Degree in civil engineering. I came to know about Norway and it’s High quality free education when I finished 10th grade. Since then I wanted to emigrate to Norway as an international student. The thing that bothers me is the cost of living there. For eg: here at the college i study the hostel costs about 75$ per month including all the food which is provided. Which is the cheapest place in Norway for a student with good colleges nearby ?

September 14, 2018 at 11:25 pm

Hi Ebin, you’re welcome to study here. But expect to pay about at least 500 US$ in a 10sqm room with shared bathroom in one of Norways University cities, or 25 US$ a night in a hostel dorm. If you havn`t already found it – please check out this site: https://www.studyinnorway.no

Enjoy life and go before its to late!

flavio says

September 24, 2018 at 2:41 am

Stein R says

October 6, 2018 at 2:17 pm

This is well written; I am a native Norwegian and agree mostly. Norway is not necessarily expensive if you reduce your standards, especially with regards to food and accommodation. The one thing you cannot find cheap though is alcohol :-/ You typically pay $10 for a beer in a restaurant. With regards to beautiful nature, I do not agree that you can go anywhere. The western and northern parts are much better than the middle, south and east parts.

Diego Valverde says

January 13, 2019 at 3:00 am

Hi. It is really a very helpful post. Could you please tell me what is the best season to visit Norway? I’m from a tropical country (Costa Rica) but I’m planning a trip to Norway this year, still not clear what season is best.

laneige says

January 22, 2019 at 5:39 am

I love reading your blog!

Valeria says

February 24, 2019 at 8:36 pm

Wow absolutely great and helpful post! Me and my husband are looking and exploring where to spend our 5th Wedding Anniversary in May. We live in a tiny Mediterranean country Malta. I love Nordic counties I’m originally from Russia and miss nature! And after reading your blog I think we definitely be planning our holiday to visit stunning Norway!

February 27, 2019 at 1:01 pm

Images are awesome

David Cameron says

April 17, 2019 at 2:52 pm

Nice one Silvia. Are we seriously allowed to camp anywhere ? Don’t we need permission or aren’t there places where we shouldn’t ?

June 10, 2019 at 6:23 pm

Nope . Pretty much anywhere . At least for 24 hours.

Magdalena Marsden says

May 9, 2019 at 9:58 am

My friends and I are planning to go to Norway later this year and I was struggling for ideas when I found your lovely blog! Your pictures are so inviting! We want to visit so many different places, but our budget is limited, so your tips definitely help to plan our journey. Thank you so much!

ucanemigrate says

May 18, 2019 at 7:28 am

wow delicous food

Bobble Colonna says

May 19, 2019 at 6:33 pm

Coming to Norway the last week of June. Oslo, Arendal (where my ancestors came from) and Bergen. Your blog has helped with what to expect while there. Very interesting! Thanks.

JOANNA says

June 17, 2019 at 10:38 am

Me and my friends are planning to go in Norway maybe in the end of this year, and this blog really helps me to see and to know the beautiful places in a beautiful country. We are also planning to make VLOG and we choose NORWAY to be our First Travel List to be feature in our very First VLOG .. Reading your blog really helps me and inspire me to discover more about this Country .. and hope to read more …

John Lepley says

June 23, 2019 at 7:33 pm

Fantastic site of great importance to a backpacker at 75, me. My recorded ancestry is traced back to the 1400s in Norway, the Stuvegen and Fjelstad families–the village is known to me but in a file elsewhere. I will be visiting for many months when my mother, age 102, needs 24/7 care. Thus, I will be back visiting your site when planning my adventure in Norway, and buying your guides in the meantime!! Now I have a great reason to join Instagram and watch U-tube.

Having traveled worldwide, I know your life is a joy. Adventure on!!!!! Best wishes.

Jennie says

August 2, 2019 at 3:12 pm

Wow, the construction there has been very good. This information is very good for us, knowing the situation in Norway. The construction of houses and other places looks unique. Thank you for the article. biesterbosgroep.nl

Patrick says

August 28, 2019 at 7:34 pm

I often come across Hurtigruten-offers. Now you can do the Hurtigruten in winter for € 999. Sounds pretty steep, but you will be on a ship for 12 days, full-board (with great dinners) and you will see the whole coast from Bergen all the way to Russia and back. For € 82 a day. So if you don’t mind spending more than normal (and don’t mind being the youngest on board) it is a great way to see a lot of Norway.

2itchyfeets says

September 3, 2019 at 1:26 pm

It’s just amazing Silvia, this is exactly i was looking for. I was planning for Norway in May 2020 and the thought of expensive cost always hover in my mind, but after seeing your blog it’s just vanished. How will it be in May Silvia, will i be getting most of the nature in that time.

September 3, 2019 at 1:33 pm

What an amazing blog on Norway, exactly what i was looking for. I am planning to visit Norway in May 2020 and the thought of expensive country always hover in my mind but seeing your blog have given me the confidence to see the best of nature in a cost effective way. Thank you for sharing the information Silvia. It’s incredible.

Diego Cuellar says

October 19, 2019 at 6:36 pm

Hi.. I’m considering in going to norway next august and probably would like to meet you along the way. Taking a two week vacation and thinking of some possibles ways of getting around for a great deal. Especially if Norway has rain Passes for certain days or renting a car is more optional.

Dana Jones says

November 23, 2019 at 3:00 am

Do you have any posts about traveling to Norway in winter? I want to come to XC ski and am looking for some tips on best places to go – thinking Lillehammer and Sjusjoen and looking for information!

Nicole Beatty says

December 17, 2019 at 7:49 pm

I’m looking to plan my first ever trip. I just stumbled across this article and in order to make this more affordable, you really peaked my interest in camping. It’s one of the main things I wanted to do. I’m also really new to backpacking. Is there a way I can successfully do this? Should I get a car? I would love to pick you brain on how to successfully achieve this goal.

Sruthi says

January 2, 2020 at 5:03 pm

Hey girl This article is amazing, very helpful. Im planning my first solo trip and after this article i have decided on Norway. Hope the trip will be as amazing as this place

Sheila says

January 4, 2020 at 7:59 pm

I read your postings and replies many times. Love it. I am heading to Bergen, Norway from Iceland. I want to travel on the overnight Hurtigruten ferry from Bergen to Geiranger to see the fjords and on to Oslo. Please advice, I have limited time and cash, senior and solo too. Do reply.

January 6, 2020 at 3:05 pm

Oslo is not very interesting, so if you are going straight to Bergen you could skip it. Or if you fly into Oslo you could get the train to Bergen (book as early as possible – up to three months in advance – for cheap tickets). And then you can get on the Hurtigruten. Have fun!

January 13, 2020 at 10:04 am

Norway is an amazing country to travel in. Thanks for your good guide and the photos were so beautiful.

George says

January 19, 2020 at 4:05 am

Hello, I am an American considering college in Norway as it is so beautiful (and free!!). I was wondering if you have suggestions about cheaper villages/cities to live in while earning a degree? Or if you know of colleges that have a wide range of English-taught Bachelor’s? Thanks so much!

Justin says

January 30, 2020 at 11:20 pm

i have a bunch of friends in Norway that I met whilst studying abroad in Australia, so this definitely is something I want to do eventually. Just can’t find the time now that i am out of college. I will eventually though! The photographer inside of me cannot wait to adventure there.

Jessica Brown says

April 18, 2020 at 1:26 pm

hey I just read your blog on 7 ways Norway travel isn’t as expensive as you think and I was wondering what meant by “You know how everyone visits Iceland these days as part of the free Icelandair stopover?”

April 18, 2020 at 4:09 pm

When flying Icelandair via Iceland you can extend your layover in Iceland for up to a week for free.

May 19, 2020 at 12:34 pm

Hi I am looking to visit Norway this summer season and I hope prices will go down even more because of Corona!

May 22, 2020 at 2:28 pm

Prices are already way cheaper now! The kroner is the weakest I have seen it in my lifetime (about 10 NOK to 1 USD) and gas is way cheaper.

August 1, 2020 at 10:28 am

I love your web page! Thank you so much!

I am thinking of travelling on my own and would like to take my tent and camp. Do you think it is safe for a woman doing that on her own?

August 1, 2020 at 4:24 pm

Yes, I camp on my own in Norway all the time!

December 20, 2020 at 6:55 am

Hi there! I am curious about the schooling. I assume they speak Norwegian in the masters program so it would be hard to lean there if you don’t speak Norwegian or is this incorrect?

December 21, 2020 at 8:45 pm

Master’s programs here are usually taught in English.

Riccardo says

July 6, 2021 at 7:07 pm

Hi, I’m organizing a trip this summer in late August to Norway, and wanted to know what’s the cheapest possibile way from Oslo to visit the Fjords, I’m also really curious about Lofoten, any advice? Thank you in advance

Nayeli Perez says

July 16, 2021 at 4:48 pm

Although I have never been here, to visit here from the east means you will try to save every penny as possible. So, your tips would be really helpful when I make a trip

January 3, 2022 at 1:16 am

We come from Athens, Greece. My partner and I stayed in small villages/cottage settings throughout Norway for a little over a month. We flew in, we rented a car from Oslo and began our adventure. At the end of it all I realized we’ve only spent half of what we usually spend if we go to Italy or France. It was actually right on par with being as cheap as staying home, on some less visited island (which often means it’s better than Santorini and Mykonos). Of course, if we want cheaper vacation in a well developed country, we don’t go straight for the A-list cities and restaurants – this should be basic knowledge. We wanted to avoid the big city clutter, so we opted for the quiet, fjord setting, with tasty salmon and great people. The best vacation so far, and I’ve been everywhere. Give Norway a chance. They need tourists, too.

February 18, 2022 at 5:25 pm

Thank you for your kind information ……This year holiday I am planing to visit Norway….It’s been a like tour guide for me ..

Siddhant says

March 29, 2022 at 8:47 am

April 1, 2022 at 5:36 pm

No, most masters programs are taught in English.

Behin Ertebat Hishman Tila says

March 29, 2022 at 12:38 pm

Though I’ve not been to Norway, people kept saying the same thing to me when I went to Stockholm last year. It’s not THAT expensive, especially from the UK, the prices weren’t that different at all.

Glad to hear about how much you’re able to save while working 4 days a week – I’m looking at Masters degrees and there’s an amazing one in Trondheim and I was a little worried about whether I’d be able to afford it on a part-time job.

April 6, 2023 at 9:48 am

I have never been to Norway & I am Planning to give it a chance by the way! I hope it is light on budgets as described!

darmantehran says

July 2, 2023 at 9:14 am

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Norway tourism: best time to visit.

Norway tour packages are often arranged to accommodate the country’s extreme seasons. The summer season, from June to August, is a fantastic time to enjoy Norway tours when you can experience the legendary phenomenon of the midnight sun and sweeping swaths of verdant fields. Come autumn, between September and November, the green fields will have been replaced with fiery shades of red and gold. This is the perfect time for Norway tour packages offering a quieter ambience and scenic hikes. The cold and dark winter season from November to February, while not as popular as the summer Norway tour package, more than makes up for it with mystical snowy wonderlands and shimmering northern lights.

Norway Visa for Indians

Indians looking for a Norway tour package from India must apply for a visitor’s visa through the Royal Norwegian Embassy in New Delhi. This visa will allow you stay in Norway for 90 days. The processing time of your visa application can take 15 to 45 days, so remember to apply well in advance of your Norway tour package.

Norway Tourism: Best Places to Visit

Located towards the middle of northern Norway, Tromso is rightfully known as the capital of the Arctic. Renowned for the mystical northern lights, this exotic region is also best placed on Norway tour packages to indulge in whale watching, skiing, hiking and birdwatching. Your holidays will be made livelier by epic adventures including sighting the midnight sun, dog sledding and staying in hotels made out of pure ice! Tromso is also well-known for its unique Sami culture, and is surrounded by several picturesque islands just waiting to be explored on Norway tour packages.

The capital city of Oslo proves that your Norway tour packages will not be all about nature, spectacular though it may be. A lot of brews are bubbling in Oslo including a trail-blazing food scene, funky neighbourhoods, several museums and fantastic art exhibitions. This does not mean that your international holidays will be devoid of nature adventures at the capital. Enveloped by a dense forest and the spellbinding Oslofjord, you can also enjoy cycling, skiing and island hopping at Oslo.

Lofoten Islands

The breath-taking natural beauty of Lofoten Islands is enhanced by its many scenic fishing villages, glittering fjords and lofty peaks covered in snow. The region offers a handful of epic outdoor adventures including skiing and hiking along with some of the most picture-perfect beaches in Europe. A perfect place to enjoy the soul-stirring Northern lights and the extraordinary phenomenon of the midnight sun, Lofoten has a very vibrant cultural scene as well. Make sure to choose Norway packages that will also take you along the coastal route between Trondelag and Bodo, one of the world’s most scenic drives.

Geirangerfjord

The cerulean waters of the UNESCO protected Geirangerfjord, surrounded by majestic peaks, cascading waterfalls and lush greenery, is Norway’s most famous fjord. Norway packages to this region projects a fairy tale quality with its astounding natural scenery, believed to have been created by successive ice ages, and the sheer determination of the people to glean a living here without adversely affecting the environment. Kayaking, fishing, hiking and cycling are only a few of the adventurous activities awaiting you in this paradise. Be sure to sample the unique flavours of local cuisine while on Norway tour packages.

Norway tour packages are never complete without a trip to Bergen, the second largest city in the country. A fantastic combination of cobblestone streets, trendy restaurants, sprawling art museums and a lively music scene, Bergen is aptly named “the heart of the fjords”. Once the centre of trade between Norway and the rest of Europe, the Hanseatic Wharf, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, retains its old-world charm with its iconic colourful wooden buildings. Overlooking the sea and surrounded by majestic peaks, Bergen has the vibe of a quaint town and offers its visitors panoramic views, fantastic hiking trails and unforgettable train journeys.

Norway Tourism: Local Dishes to Try

Commonly eaten in the western regions of Norway, Farikal is a hearty stew, perfect to warm oneself up on cold winter nights. Made with lamb meat and cabbage leaves, it is traditionally served with a helping of boiled potatoes on the side.

A popular local dish in the northern reaches of Norway, Finnbiff is a type of stew made with sauteed reindeer meat and served with a delicious sauce. You can also find versions of this tasty dish in the Lapland regions of Sweden, Finland and Russia.

Being north of the Arctic Circle with sub-zero temperatures, soups are quite famous in Norway. Sodd is a traditional mutton soup, made with potatoes and carrots, and is a hearty meal to throw off the chill and warm you inside-out.

A Norwegian delicacy that can be traced back to the 12 th century, Torrfisk is a type of unsalted, cold-air dried fish, usually cod fish. It can also be cured through fermentation, and is very popular with the people of Lofoten Islands.

Things to Do on Your Norway Trip

Hiking and cycling.

Norway tour packages are best enjoyed on foot or pedals. Soak up the astounding scenery, quaint villages and the sheer magnificence of nature as you cycle or hike at your leisure. Let the locals inspire you as they trek along terrain both large and small, rugged and steep.

Skiing and Dog Sledding

If you seek thrilling experiences on Norway tour packages, swap your shoes for your ski boots and fly down mountain slopes covered in glittering snow. If you are not quite up to that, let some frisky Alaskan Huskies take you for the ride of your life along snow-covered mountain slopes, on dog sleds.

Get up and personal with the fjords on Norway tour packages as you go kayaking along them. Feast your eyes on the panoramic vistas that unfold on either side as you paddle alongside adventure.

Wildlife Experiences

Don’t forget the guided wildlife safari tours and your best cameras while on Norway tour packages. Capture some fantastic shots of the planet’s most majestic and elusive creatures – the whales. The prehistoric musk oxen, lumbering moose and goofy-looking puffins should all be found a place on the wall of your Norwegian memories.

Souvenirs to Look out For

The perfect keepsake will keep the memories of your Norway trip fresh and vibrant. Norwegian Jul (Christmas) ornaments, Viking drinking bowls, Norwegian tine (wooden carrier boxes), Rosemaling or decorative folk painting, troll figurines and solje jewellery are some of the most sought-after souvenirs on Norway tour packages.

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• norway Tour Packages

Kygo Announces World Tour Across North America and Europe

SPECIAL GUESTS SOFI TUKKER, GRYFFIN, SAM FELDT, ZARA LARSSON, KLANGKARUSSELL, HAYLA, VICTORIA NADINE AND VANDELUX TO JOIN ON SELECT DATES

New single, “for life” ft. zak abel & nile rodgers out now, listen here, tickets available starting tuesday, april 23 with presales, general onsale begins on friday, april 26 at 10am local at kygothealbum.com.

Today,  global superstar, producer, and DJ Kygo announced part one of his 2024 world tour across North America, Europe and the UK. Produced by Live Nation, the 26-date run kicks off on Saturday, September 7 in Commerce City, CO at DICK’S Sporting Goods Park, with stops in Boston, Toronto, Chicago, Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, London and more before wrapping up on Friday, December 13 in Dublin, Ireland at 3Arena. As the highest-selling ticket artist in dance music, part one of Kygo’s 2024 dates marks his first tour since 2018 and will bring his incredible live show across the globe. The impressive, must-see performance will feature Kygo’s signature piano, as well as strings, singers, and drummers. Special guests SOFI TUKKER, GRYFFIN, Sam Feldt , Zara Larsson, Klangkarussell, Hayla , Victoria Nadine , and Vandelux will join on select dates.

The Kygo World Tour will feature performances at iconic venues around the world, including Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl, Brooklyn’s Barclays Center and a hometown show at Telenor Arena in Oslo, Norway.

The new tour announcement comes on the heels of Kygo’s new single release, “For Life” ft. Zak Abel & Nile Rodgers, from last week.

NORTH AMERICA TICKETS: Tickets for the U.S. dates will be available starting with a Verizon presale (details below) beginning Tuesday, April 23 at 10am local time. An artist presale will begin Wednesday, April 24 at 10am local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, April 26 at 10am local time at kygothealbum.com .

• VERIZON PRESALE: Verizon will offer customers presale access for the The Kygo Tour for applicable U.S dates through Verizon Up. Customers will have access to purchase presale tickets for the shows beginning Tuesday, April 23 at 10am local time to Friday, April 26 at 9am local time. For more details visit Verizon Up .
• AMEX PRESALE: For the Hollywood Bowl show, American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, April 23 at 10am PT through Friday, April 26 at 9am PT.

EUROPE + UK TICKETS: Tickets for the Europe/UK dates will be available starting with a Mastercard presale (details below) beginning Tuesday, April 23 at 10am local time. An artist presale will begin Wednesday, April 24 at 10am local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, April 26 at 10am local time at kygothealbum.com .

• MASTERCARD PRESALE: Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale tickets in Norway, France, Netherlands, Italy, Sweden, Denmark and Belgium starting from Tuesday, April 23 at 10am local time until Friday, April 26 at 10am local time. Preferred ticket access is available to Mastercard cardholders in the UK on April 26 at 10am. Visit priceless.com/music to find out more.

VIP: Fans can also purchase VIP Packages, which may include premium tickets, an on stage photo op, access to the VIP Lounge, a VIP-exclusive Kygo gift item and more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com .

KYGO WORLD TOUR 2024 DATES:

Sat Sep 07 – Commerce City, CO – DICK’S Sporting Goods Park *+

Thu Sep 12 – Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion *+

Fri Sep 13 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center *+

Tue Sep 17 – Boston, MA – TD Garden *+

Fri Sep 20 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre *+

Sat Sep 21 – Toronto, ON – Woodbine Park *+

Wed Sep 25 – Chicago, IL – Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island ^~

Sat Sep 28 – Austin, TX – Germania Insurance Amphitheater ^~

Fri Oct 04 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center ^~

Wed Oct 09 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena ^~

Thu Oct 10 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena ^~

Thu Oct 17 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl ^~

Wed Nov 06 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena > =

Fri Nov 08 – Oslo, Norway – Telenor Arena > %

Wed Nov 13 – Stockholm, Sweden – Tele2 Arena >=

Fri Nov 15 – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena >=

Sun Nov 17 – Budapest, Hungary – MVM Dome *=

Thu Nov 21 – Cologne, Germany – Lanxess Arena #=

Sat Nov 23 – Vienna, Austria – Stadthalle #=

Tue Nov 26 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome #=

Fri Nov 29 – Milan, Italy – Forum #=

Tue Dec 03 – Madrid, Spain – Wizink Center #=

Fri Dec 06 – Brussels, Belgium – ING Arena #=

Sat Dec 07 – Paris, France – Accor Arena #=

Wed Dec 11 – London, UK – The O2  #+

Fri Dec 13 – Dublin, Ireland – 3Arena #+

# With SOFI TUKKER

> With GRYFFIN

* With Sam Feldt

^ With Zara Larsson

= With Klangkarussell

+ With Hayla

% With Victoria Nadine

~ With Vandelux

Whether behind the piano in his studio or headlining a sold-out festival, Kygo quietly reaffirms his status as a prodigious talent, forward-thinking producer, dynamic DJ, and influential global superstar. The Norwegian musician born Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll first introduced himself in 2013 and quietly became one of the most ubiquitous hitmakers in the world. Amassing over 23 billion cumulative global audio and video streams, he has broken numerous streaming records. Kygo earned one of his biggest hits with the multiplatinum “It Ain’t Me” (feat. Selena Gomez), going Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and clocking over 2.9 billion streams worldwide. In 2019, Kygo unleashed “Higher Love” with Whitney Houston and generated another 1.4 billion combined streams/views worldwide and peaked at #1 on Dance Radio, in addition to leaving his imprint on a classic.

He heralded his 2020 critically acclaimed third full-length album Golden Hour [Sony Music International/Ultra Records/RCA Records] with the anthems “Like It Is” (feat. Zara Larsson & Tyga), “Lose Somebody” (with OneRepublic), and “I’ll Wait” (feat. Sasha Alex Sloan). The album has garnered over 2.6 billion streams worldwide. Following Golden Hour , Kygo released his remix of Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got To Do With It” and Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” to rave reviews. In 2022, after headlining Lollapalooza and Life Is Beautiful, along with sold-out headlining shows at Madison Square Garden and Oslo’s Ullevaal Stadion, Kygo surprised fans with the release of his fourth album Thrill Of The Chase [RCA Records]. The album featured notable singles including “Dancing Feet” (feat. DNCE), “Woke Up In Love” (with Gryffin feat. Calum Scott), and “Never Really Loved Me” (feat. Dean Lewis), amassing over 1 billion streams worldwide and debuting in the Top 5 on the Billboard Top Dance/Electronic Albums Chart. This year, Kygo continues his run of stunning collaborations, teaming up with Ava Max for his latest single “Whatever,” which the pair performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! .

Connect with Kygo:

Instagram // YouTube // Twitter // Facebook // Website

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com .

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Alex John | [email protected]

Cara Hutchinson | [email protected]

Sami Brensilber | [email protected]

Live Nation Concerts

Monique Sowinski | [email protected]

Maya Sarin | [email protected]

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• Mastercard launches mobile virtual card app to simplify travel and business expenses

HSBC and Westpac to unlock the convenience, security and efficiency of tap to pay transactions   

Mastercard announced a new mobile virtual card app that enables virtual commercial cards to be seamlessly added to digital wallets. The innovative app is designed to offer financial institutions more choice in how they deliver the secure and sustainable contactless payment solutions that companies increasingly expect.  

For over a decade, Mastercard has pioneered virtual card solutions to simplify tedious expense report and reconciliation processes for employees, contractors, recruits, and consultants who often use personal cards or cash for reimbursable business expenses. As companies navigate changing payment preferences particularly from the entry-level workforce – with over two-thirds of millennials having adopted digital wallets 1 – mobile technology is unlocking the next frontier of convenient contactless payments.   

“Businesses worldwide are seeking fast and secure payment experiences, where payments can be made with just a click or tap, and finance teams can experience automatic reconciliation,” said Chad Wallace, global head of Commercial Solutions, Mastercard. “With today’s launch, we’re providing innovative tech that digitizes business and travel expenses, while also empowering businesses with more control of and visibility into their finances.”  

The app leverages Mastercard’s innovative virtual card and tokenization platforms, enhanced data, and robust spend controls all within one easy-to-use interface. Accessing Mastercard mobile virtual cards is made seamless through the app so users can quickly experience the benefits of tap to pay. Mastercard mobile virtual cards can be used by organizations spanning a range of sizes and industries – including healthcare, insurance, fleet, higher education, and corporate travel.  

Key capabilities and benefits of Mastercard’s mobile virtual card app include:  

• Increased security : The app offers the ability to set up a biometric authentication and an added security measure using a PIN to view card details. Each virtual card is also tokenized, enabling the cardholder’s sensitive data to be replaced by a unique card number so sensitive account details are not exposed.  
• Robust spend controls: Organizations can confidently stay compliant with expense policies using Mastercard’s transaction-level controls, which limit how, where, and when a mobile virtual card can be used. 
• Flexible integrations: Financial institutions can quickly get to market through Mastercard’s user interface or flexible API-based integrations, and offer unique features such as customized card art.  
• Holistic and seamless payment experience: The app provides a single interface to check the status of card balances and view pending and completed transactions, and is bank-agnostic, enabling users to access and manage virtual commercial cards issued by multiple participating financial institutions.  
• Real-time and enhanced data: For each mobile virtual card created, custom data elements are automatically captured and matched to the transaction, providing organizations with increased insights into spending and automatic reconciliation to optimize back-office processes. 

HSBC Australia and Westpac will be the first financial institutions to offer organizations and corporate customers mobile wallet functionality through the Mastercard app.    

“We’re pleased to partner with Mastercard to bring mobile wallet virtual cards to our Australian corporate clients, providing them with a smarter, safer, and faster way to pay,” said John Scott, Head of Global Payments, HSBC Australia. “Mobile wallet usage is growing, with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for over half of the digital payment transactions globally 2 . As contactless payments continue to surge, it’s important that corporate clients have access to best-in-class payment solutions to keep their business secure and take advantage of the increased efficiency offered by the latest technologies. HSBC has a history of delivering innovative digital solutions to our corporate clients, and we’re proud to add to that legacy with the launch of mobile wallet virtual cards in Australia. We plan to launch in other markets later this year.” 

“Westpac is pleased to be one of the first domestic banks in Australia to offer the new Mastercard mobile virtual card app to our corporate and commercial customers in addition to our existing virtual card capabilities. The global payments market is at an inflection point and the mobile wallet solution, combining digital innovation, real time processing and security through robust controls is another way we’re helping our customers,” said Jeff Byrne, Managing Director of Global Transaction Services at Westpac Institutional Bank. 

The app will be available in other key markets for users with a commercial virtual card issued through an organization by a participating financial institution. Once registered for the app with an invitation code, users will find their commercial virtual cards automatically linked and ready to be added to select digital wallets for use across Mastercard’s trusted global network.  

For more information on other ways Mastercard is simplifying commercial payments, click here .  

1 PYMNTS Research: “Mobile Wallet Challenge: Replacing Physical With Digital,” (April 2023)  

2 “Global Mobile Payment Methods 2024 Report” (January 2024)  

Disclaimers:  

Mastercard In Control Pay app and features are available only for eligible virtual card accounts issued by the financial institution. Prepaid Cards and Consumer Cards are not eligible. The virtual card(s) are not issued by Mastercard and is (are) subject to the terms and conditions of the relevant issuer.  

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About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ Is a Keeper: TV Review

Legendary talk show host and hot wing evangelist returns to television with hilarious new Max travel show

By Stephen Rodrick

Stephen Rodrick

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The key to understanding Conan O’Brien’s comedy is knowing that it comes from a point of kindness. Yes, I know in this age of comics punching down , this kind of compliment may leave you with a neon “Must Avoid!” sign flashing in your bleary eyes — but stay with me.

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Conan’s three-decade run as a talk show host ended in 2021 under less-than-optimal circumstances , as he wound down his TBS show during the pandemic year. He talked to longtime sidekick Andy Richter , who sat among dozens of cardboard cutout fans. O’Brien quipped that they were last in line for the vaccine because the CDC had looked at the shows and “they said ours is the least essential of pretty much all the non-essential shows.”

There was some truth in that, but Conan had already started his move to other outlets , starting with his “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” podcast in 2018.

The podcast is funny and sweet, especially the pre-interview segments with longtime associate Sona Movsesian and producer Matt Gourley. Conan mocks Sona’s legendarily bad work habits. and Gourley’s flea market predilections, but any kind of comedic acid is reserved for the self-lacerating O’Brien. (On a recent episode, Conan runs down his own looks, and it is cruel and hilarious, but part of me is thinking, “Dude, cut yourself a break.”). The only time things get contentious is when Conan visited by longtime friend Kevin Nealon — perhaps the podcast’s best episodes.

The podcast had an offshoot called “Conan O’Brien Needs a Fan,” on which O’Brien would talk to a fan, often in a faraway land. That led to O’Brien traveling to Norway, Thailand, Ireland and Argentina to meet them. Why? Well, a dour and ominous narrator, aka Werner Herzog, offered this rationale at the beginning of each episode: “Once a proud talk show host, he’s been driven by a changing ecosystem to a drier and harsher climate: the weekly podcast. Here , without the nourishment of his studio audience, this clown with dull , tiny eyes, the eye of a crudely painted doll , is forced to feed on that meagerest of morsels: the random call-in fan. Unhinged by the feral scent of their mild enthusiasm. He scavenges in distant lands uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition , and the occasional selfie.”

It’s a self-deprecating bit, but it’s also the truth. Conan has been doing travel shows for years, most notably one to Movsesian’s native Armenia , as well as a chaotic trip to Finland where O’Brien is treated as a god because of his physical resemblance to the Finnish president who happens to be a woman. He clearly loves the journey. And he loves the comedy set piece–see his classic “Old Timey Baseball” opus — which has always been an essential part of his appeal.

The encounters work because O’Brien doesn’t treat his new friends as fools — rather , he revels in the fact that he is the fool. (See his instant-classic appearance on “Hot Ones,” the show where interviews are conducted while the celebrity consumes increasingly acidic chicken wings. Conan rhapsodizes on comedy being all around us as green-yellow mucus drips down his nose.) Of course, there are exceptions made for old friends. Conan goes out for asada in Buenos Aires with the effete and erudite Jordan Schlansky, a longtime producer and frenemy. Schlansky and Conan are the Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon of American cable , and on his TBS show and podcast the two have tangled over Japanese customs, Conan hosting Schlansky’s bachelor party in his own office, and Schlansky hiding an expensive Espresso machine in an inaccessible part of their offices. (As with the Courtney Thorne-Smith segment, Conan’s visceral malice toward Schlansky works because it is so out-of-character).

During the Argentina episode, they get into a fierce argument about the proper pronunciation of the word “tango,” Conan then licks Schlansky’s favorite cut of meat — wait, that came out wrong. After, they go on an ill-fated trip to the Pampas, where both fail spectacularly at gaucho life.

Not everything works. O’Brien does a self-referential bit about the expensive drone he is using on the first show , and for the next four episodes I am distracted every time I see a beautiful shot thinking about the drone’s specifications and capabilities. Some of the stuff goes on a bit long, but so does my writing.

These are minor quibbles. If you’re a Conan fan, you’ll treasure the trips, just like his completists treasure encounters with a masturbating bear. The series ends with Conan tracing his family’s roots in Ireland. He comes across his ancestor’s land, makes a few jokes, but then looks at the land, clearly moved. Conan O’Brien has played the fool long enough; we grant him this moment of humanity with all our hearts.

All four episodes of “Conan O’Brien Must Go” are now available on Max.

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