Oslo Norway Travel Tips

Oslo Etiquette and Travel Tips

  1. Greetings: Norwegians are generally formal and reserved, especially in professional settings. A handshake is the common greeting for both men and women.

  2. Politeness: Polite and friendly behavior is expected. Always say “please” (vennligst) and “thank you” (takk).

  3. Punctuality: Norwegians value punctuality, so try to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and reservations.

  4. Public Space Etiquette: Public spaces in Oslo are clean and well-maintained. Littering is strictly prohibited and heavily fined.

  5. Dining Etiquette: When dining out, it’s customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. It’s also common to tip about 10%.

  6. Alcohol and Smoking: The legal drinking age in Norway is 18. Public smoking has been largely banned since 2004, but smoking is allowed in designated areas.

  7. Biking Culture: Oslo is a bike-friendly city. If you’re renting a bike, remember to follow traffic rules and signal your intentions when changing lanes or turning.

  8. Respect for Nature: Norwegians have a deep respect for nature. Always dispose of waste properly in designated bins, and avoid littering.

  9. Public Holidays: Plan your visit around public holidays to experience traditional celebrations. Major holidays include Christmas (December 25), New Year’s Day (January 1), and National Independence Day (May 17).

  10. Tolerance: Norway is a tolerant country with strong LGBTQ+ rights. You can feel free to express yourself without fear of discrimination.

  11. Tip for Museums and Guided Tours: It’s customary to tip museum guides or tour operators, although it’s not as widespread as in other countries like the U.S.

  12. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Norway’s cultural heritage and traditions. This includes being mindful when visiting sacred sites and respecting local customs during festivals and celebrations.