Norway Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Norway?

  • Norway is the world's most expensive country to visit.
  • Norway has the world's longest coastline.
  • Norway is the world's most mountainous country.
  • Norway has the world's longest tunnel, the Laerdal Tunnel at 24.5 km (15.2 mi).
  • Norway has the world's most northernly university, the University of Tromso.
  • Browse our Norway vacation rentals.

History

Norway, located on the western coast of Scandinavia, has a long and interesting history dating back to the Viking Age. Its rugged landscape, with deep fjords and towering mountains, has shaped the country's culture and way of life.

The first settlers in Norway were nomadic hunter-gatherers who arrived around 10,000 BC, following the retreat of the glaciers. These early inhabitants were skilled at hunting and fishing, and their rich cultural heritage can still be seen in the rock carvings and paintings found throughout the country.

In the 8th century, the arrival of the Vikings brought significant changes to Norway. These fierce warriors and seafarers explored and raided other countries, establishing trade routes and settlements in Europe, Asia, and North America. They also had a strong influence on the development of the Norwegian language and culture.

In the 11th century, Norway became a unified kingdom under the rule of King Harald Fairhair. During this time, Christianity was introduced to the country, leading to the construction of impressive stone churches and the establishment of monasteries.

The Middle Ages saw Norway embroiled in a series of wars with neighboring countries, including Denmark and Sweden. In 1380, Norway entered into a personal union with Denmark, which lasted for over 400 years. This period saw the country's economy and trade flourish, but Norway's autonomy was greatly diminished.

In 1814, after the defeat of Denmark by Napoleon, Norway was ceded to Sweden. However, the Norwegians were not content with Swedish rule and fought for independence. In 1905, Norway finally gained its independence and established a constitutional monarchy with King Haakon VII as its first ruler.

The 20th century brought major changes to Norway, including the discovery of oil in the North Sea in the late 1960s. This led to a significant boost in the country's economy and transformed Norway into one of the wealthiest nations in the world.

Today, Norway is known for its stunning natural beauty, progressive social policies, and high standard of living. It is also a global leader in renewable energy, with a strong commitment to protecting the environment.

From its Viking roots to its modern-day prosperity, Norway's history is one of resilience, independence, and a deep connection to its unique landscape. It continues to be a country that captivates the world with its rich culture and breathtaking scenery.

Transportation on Norway

Getting to Norway and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Local Transportation

2021

1. Train: Norway has an extensive train network that covers most major cities and towns. The trains are modern, comfortable, and efficient, making them a popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists.

2. Bus: Buses are another common mode of transportation in Norway. They offer a more affordable option for long-distance travel and also cover smaller towns and villages that are not accessible by trains.

3. Tram: Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim have tram networks that are efficient and convenient for getting around the city. Trams in Norway are known for their punctuality and cleanliness.

4. Metro: The Oslo Metro, also known as T-bane, is a fast and efficient way to travel within the city. It has six lines that cover most of the city's major attractions.

5. Ferry: With its long coastline and numerous islands, ferries are an important mode of transportation in Norway. They provide scenic and enjoyable trips and are an essential part of the country's public transportation system.

6. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in major cities and towns in Norway. They can be an expensive option, but they are convenient for short distances or for traveling at night when other modes of transportation may not be available.

7. Bike: Norway is a bike-friendly country, and many cities have dedicated bike lanes and rental services. Biking is a great way to explore smaller towns and villages and to experience the country's natural beauty.

8. Electric scooters: Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in Norway, especially in larger cities like Oslo and Bergen. They are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around and can be rented through various mobile apps.

9. Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Norway's scenic routes and remote areas. However, it can be expensive, and drivers should be aware of the country's strict driving laws and weather conditions.

10. Walking: With its stunning landscapes and well-maintained sidewalks, walking is a great way to get around in Norway. It's also a way to experience the country's culture and interact with locals.

Know Before You Go...® - Norway Travel Tips

Before making their way to Norway , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Norway even more relaxing.

Capital: 1Oslo
Population: 20205.4 million
Size: 2017Large
Time: Timezone: CEST, 2026-08-09 04:41:28
(GMT Offset: 2 hours, DST: Yes)
Official Language: The official language of Norway is Norwegian, specifically the Bokmål dialect. However, there are also other dialects of Norwegian, such as Nynorsk, which are recognized as official regional languages. In addition, English is widely spoken as a secondary
Currency: Norway's official currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK), which is divided into 100 øre. It is represented by the symbol "kr" or "NOK" and is commonly referred to as "kroner." The NOK is a stable and highly valued currency, with an exchange rate of around 9 NOK to 1 USD (as of October 2021). It is widely accepted throughout the country, and travelers can easily exchange their currency at banks, exchange offices, and ATMs. When it comes to payment options, Norway is a highly cashless society, and most transactions are done using debit or credit cards. These cards are widely accepted at most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and public transportation. Many Norwegians also use mobile payment apps, such as Vipps, which is widely accepted and allows for easy and secure transactions. Although cards are widely used, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when traveling to remote areas or smaller towns. ATMs can be found in most urban areas, and major c
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Norway are an important aspect of the country's economy and culture. In general, tipping is not expected in Norway as it is included in the service charge or included in the price of goods and services. However, if the service is exceptional, a small tip of 5-10% can be given. On the other hand, taxes in Norway are relatively high compared to other countries. The country has a progressive tax system, meaning that those with higher incomes pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes. The main types of taxes in Norway are income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and wealth tax. Income tax rates in Norway can range from 0% to 55.4%, with the average rate being around 38.52%. This means that a large portion of an individual's income goes towards taxes. However, it also funds the country's robust social welfare system, which provides free healthcare, education, and other social benefits to its citizens. VAT, also known as sales tax, is 25% in Norway. This tax is
Dress Code: The dress code in Norway is typically casual and understated, with a focus on comfort and practicality.
Topography: Norway's topography is characterized by rugged mountains, deep fjords, and a narrow coastal plain, with the majority of the land covered by forests and glaciers.
Telephone: Norway: +47, area code: 2

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