Norway is known for its fjords, mountains, and ridiculously expensive beer. If you’re visiting for the first time, here’s what you should know:
Quick Facts
- Capital: Oslo
- Population: ~5.5 million
- Currency: Norwegian krone (NOK)
- Language: Norwegian (but everyone speaks English too)
- Time zone: -3 hours behind Kazakhstan
Language
Norwegians speak English extremely well, so don’t stress about learning Norwegian. That said, learning to say “Takk” (thank you) or “Skål!” (cheers) never hurts. People appreciate the effort — and will still reply in perfect English. Keep in mind that Russian language is a very uncommon language in Norway.
Weather
Even in summer, Norway can be chilly, especially in the evenings. Rain happens. If you are travelling in August, bring a light jacket and a sweater, just in case.
Safety
Norway is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is rare, and the police are polite. You can walk around late at night with little concern.
Visa
Norway is in Schengen. If you live within the Schengen area or have Schengen visa, you do not need an additional visa.
Citizens of the USA and UAE do not need a visa to visit Norway for stays up to 90 days.
Guests from Kazakhstan do need a Schengen visa in advance — please start the process early (ideally 2–3 months before travel). We can provide an official invitation letter to support the application, which is often required by the embassy.
Food & Drink
Norwegian food is… different. Expect a lot of fish, potatoes, brown cheese, and strange things in tubes. Alcohol is expensive and sold only in special shops called Vinmonopolet.
Restaurants are pricey too, but the quality is usually good. Try to avoid the restaurants in Karl Johans gate (main street), unless you are willing to pay extra for the view of the Royal Palace.
Pro tip: Try Norwegian waffles, fresh seafood, and cloudberries if you can.
Fun Facts
- Norwegians love nature. Like, really love it.
- It is common for Norwegians to spend their weekends at their cabin (“hytte”).
- Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
- Norwegians are generally punctual — being late is seen as disrespectful.
Travel Tips
- Credit cards are accepted everywhere — even at hot dog stands. You will not need cash if you have a credit or debit card. Many places they do not accept cash at all.
- Taxis in Norway are very expensive. Do not take a taxi unless your have to and always ask about the price before you enter. We encurrage using ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt.
- Renting a car isn’t always convenient. Parking is limited and almost always paid. Unless you are going on a road trip out of the city, you will not need a to rent a car.
- Most people use public transport — from students to business professionals. Even very well-off Norwegians often take the metro, tram, or bus. It’s generally clean, safe, and runs frequently trhoughout the day. All you need is an app on your phone (Ruter) to buy tickets and plan your route around the city.
- You are required to wear a seat belt in all cars and long-distance buses.
- If you are expecting to see Northern Lights, you may be dissappointed. The Northern Lights are seasonal, mostly appearing between September and March. You would also have to travel to the north of Norway to have a good chance of seing it.
- Norway have plenty of fjords, but the one’s you have seen on the pictures are not close to Oslo. If you want to see mountains and fjords, you will have to take a 2-4 day road trip or go by train on the famous Bergensbanen. We can give you recommendations.