NORWAY

Norway’s diverse climate offers unique experiences in every season:

• May–September (Summer & Midnight Sun): Best for hiking, fjord cruises, and long daylight hours.
• October–November (Fall): Ideal for autumn colors, fewer tourists, and mild temperatures.
• December–March (Winter & Northern Lights Season): Best for skiing, dog sledding, and seeing the aurora borealis.
• April (Spring): Great for snowmelt waterfalls, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds.

• Oslo – The capital city, home to the Viking Ship Museum and the stunning Oslo Opera House.
• Bergen & Bryggen Wharf – A picturesque UNESCO-listed harbor with colorful wooden houses.
• Geirangerfjord & Nærøyfjord – Two of Norway’s most breathtaking fjords, perfect for cruising.
• Tromsø & The Northern Lights – The best place in Norway to witness the aurora borealis.
• Lofoten Islands – A stunning Arctic archipelago with dramatic peaks, fishing villages, and white sandy beaches.
• Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) – A breathtaking rock formation with one of the most famous hikes in Norway.
• Flåm Railway – One of the most scenic train journeys in the world, winding through fjords and mountains.
• Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) – A jaw-dropping cliff with panoramic views over Lysefjord.
• Svalbard Archipelago – A remote Arctic destination home to polar bears and glaciers.
• The Atlantic Road – A stunning coastal drive with dramatic ocean views.

• Rakfisk – Fermented trout, a traditional Norwegian delicacy.
• Lutefisk – Dried fish rehydrated with lye, typically served during Christmas.
• Fårikål – A hearty lamb and cabbage stew, Norway’s national dish.
• Kjøttkaker – Norwegian meatballs, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce.
• Brunost (Brown Cheese) – A sweet, caramelized whey cheese unique to Norway.
• Gravlaks – Cured salmon served with mustard sauce and dill.
• Rømmegrøt – A creamy sour porridge topped with butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
• Klippfisk (Dried Cod) – A staple in Norwegian cuisine, often used in fish stews.
• Skillingsboller – A Norwegian cinnamon bun, popular in Bergen.
• Aquavit – A traditional Scandinavian spirit flavored with herbs and spices.

• Flights: Arrive at Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), or other major airports like Bergen (BGO) and Tromsø (TOS).
• Trains: Norway’s scenic rail routes, like the Bergen Railway and Flåm Railway, are among the best in the world.
• Ferries & Hurtigruten Coastal Cruise: A fantastic way to explore the fjords and coastal towns.
• Car Rentals: Perfect for road trips like the Atlantic Road or the Lofoten Islands.
• Public Transport: Buses and trams operate in Oslo, Bergen, and other major cities.
• Walking & Biking: Many Norwegian cities are extremely walkable and bike-friendly.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Norway’s Schengen visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK).
• Credit cards are widely accepted, and Norway is largely a cashless society.
• ATMs are available throughout the country, offering good exchange rates.
• Tipping is not mandatory in Norway, as service charges are included in prices.

• Norwegian is the official language.
• English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Learning a few Norwegian phrases like “Takk” (Thank you) is appreciated.

• Norwegians value personal space and quietness – Loud conversations in public are uncommon.
• Punctuality is important – Arriving late is considered rude.
• Nature is deeply respected – Always follow “Allemannsretten” (the right to roam responsibly).
• Recycling is taken seriously – Follow Norway’s waste sorting rules.
• Tipping is appreciated but not required – Service workers are well-paid.
• Greet with a firm handshake – Norwegians prefer a direct but polite approach.

• Restaurants: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.
• Bars & Cafés: No need to tip, but rounding up the bill is common.
• Hotels: Tipping is not expected, but a small tip for great service is welcomed.
• Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest NOK is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: NOK 50–100 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (June–August & December for Northern Lights tours): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels, flights, and activities.
• For off-season travel (September–May): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For popular fjord cruises & train journeys: Book at least a few months in advance.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Weather can change quickly—always dress in layers and bring waterproof gear.
• Alcohol is expensive due to high taxes—buy at duty-free if you plan to drink.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com