Norway
Welcome to your cosy little corner of the internet for everything you need to explore Norway with confidence as a solo female traveller! Here you’ll find all of my best Norway travel tips, detailed itineraries, and travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Planning A Trip to Norway? start here:
KEY FACTS ABOUT NORWAY
→ Language: Norwegian (but English is widely spoken)
→ Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
→ Capital: Oslo
→ Timezone: Central European Time (CET)
→ Plug Type: Type C and F (aka European two pin)
→ Emergency Number: 112
→ Transport: Excellent trains, ferries and domestic flights, even in remote areas
→ Solo Travel Vibe: Slow travel, stunning scenery, very safe
WHY NORWAY IS PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVEL
Norway is one of those countries that just works for solo female travel!
It’s one of the safest countries in the world, getting around is easy with reliable trains, buses, regional flights, and ferries, and the scenery is beyond stunning!
From those famous towering fjords and Northern Lights, to the iconic Mount Torghatten and colourful Bergen, there is so much to love about solo travel in Norway!
What I loved most as a solo female traveller in Norway was the freedom to move at my own pace.
One minute I was cruising the coast on the Havila Express (which was honestly perfect alone – so peaceful and easy!), and the next I was out exploring remote Brønnøysund and admiring Mount Torghatten at sunset! And then at night, I was out on deck, watching the Northern Lights dancing over the sea.
Havila took me to incredible places I never could’ve reached alone without them, and just backs up why Norway is so amazing and welcoming for solo female travellers!
MY TOP NORWAY SOLO TRAVEL TIPS
- Use the trains and ferries. Norway’s railway journeys (like the Oslo to Bergen route) are honestly some of the most scenic in the world, and ferries along the coast or through the fjords are stunning and stress-free.
- Plan for high prices. Norway is seriously expensive. Budget carefully for food, transport and accommodation, then splurge on those bucket list experiences. (Or take advantage of exploring nature and beautiful villages for free!)
- Dress in layers, even in summer. The weather changes quickly in Norway, especially near the coast or in the north. Waterproof and windproof gear is a must, plus shoe spikes in winter.
- Tap water is amazing in Norway. Bring a refillable bottle so you can save money and reduce waste!
- Book in advance for popular routes. Fjord cruises and scenic train rides sell out a long way in advance in summer and around popular holidays.
- Cash isn’t necessary. Norway is almost entirely cashless, just make sure you carry a card that works abroad and ideally doesn’t have fees.
- Daylight hours vary massively. Summer means almost endless daylight, while winter days are very short (especially in the north, where the sun doesn’t rise at all), so plan your activities carefully.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN NORWAY
Here are five destinations in Norway I love and recommend as a solo female traveller:
Bergen – Known as the Gateway to the Fjords, Bergen is colourful, super charming, and a great base for exploring Norway’s fjords or joining the Coastal Express. The historic Bryggen Wharf is especially beautiful!
Mostraumen Fjord – Mostraumen is a breathtaking fjord just outside Bergen, and is best explored on a 4-hour boat cruise. There are narrow passages to sail through, cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs and quaint villages along the way! It’s seriously picturesque!
Trondheim – The former Viking capital of Trondheim is full of fascinating history, colourful wooden houses, and a young, fun student population. The Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see here and I also loved riding on the vintage tram!
North Cape – Nordkapp is the northernmost point of Europe, and is a true bucket-list destination. You’ve got to grab the obligatory selfie next to the famous globe! Plus the onsite visitor centre is fascinating too – leave time to watch the Nordkapp through the seasons movie in the theatre.
The Raftsund – The Raftsund is a narrow strait in the Lofoten Islands, famous for its jagged peaks and dramatic scenery. In winter, it looks like something straight out of a Christmas postcard! Boat tours through here feel surreal and also take you into the famous Trollfjord.
FAQS ABOUT SOLO TRAVEL IN NORWAY
Is it safe to travel alone in Norway as a woman?
Yes! Norway is incredibly safe for solo female travellers and I never felt uncomfortable during my trip, even walking around at night.
Street harassment is rare, crime rates are low and public transport is reliable and safe to use alone.
The main thing to keep in mind is nature. Norway’s weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains or along the coast. So always check conditions before you head out, and don’t be afraid to turn back if you’re not sure.
What’s the best time to visit Norway?
Each season offers something completely different in Norway, so the answer to this depends what you’re looking for from your trip!
Summer (June–August): Endless daylight from the Midnight Sun, green landscapes, and the easiest time for hiking and fjord cruises. This time of year is very popular (aka busy!) and most expensive though.
Autumn (September–October): Crisp air but not too cold, colourful autumn leaves, and fewer tourists. This is a lovely time for city breaks, fjord cruises and hiking.
Winter (November–March): Northern Lights, cosy city sightseeing, and ski season. Days are short, but the atmosphere is beautiful. I would recommend March as the best winter month for weather, Northern Lights, daylight and affordability.
Spring (April–May): The snow is melting, waterfalls are at their peak, wildflowers are blooming, and towns and cities are still fairly quiet ahead of the summer rush. This is the shoulder season between the Northern Lights’ chasers in the winter and the Midnight Sun tourists in the summer.
Can I visit Norway on a budget?
Norway has a reputation for being expensive, and honestly, it is very expensive! But there are a few tips I used to cut costs:
– Go to supermarkets for your meals. Rema 1000 and Coop have delicious, ready-to-eat options that are much more affordable than restaurants. This is especially helpful if you have a kitchen at your accommodation.
– Take advantage of free nature. Hiking, viewpoints, and fjords don’t cost a thing (unless you want a boat trip!) and are the highlight of Norway anyway.
– Travel with a refillable water bottle. Tap water is fresh and free everywhere in Norway.
– Book trains and ferries early. Advance fares are much cheaper than booking last minute, plus this guarantees you’ll get a spot on more popular routes.
How to Get to Norway
Norway is well-connected by air, land and sea, so it depends where you’re coming from:
By Air: Major airports are in Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim and Tromsø. Direct flights connect Norway to most of Europe and further afield too.
By Train: From Sweden, you can reach Oslo directly. It’s a scenic and easy journey.
By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Norway with Denmark and Sweden, which is budget-friendly but a lot slower.
By Ferry: You can sail from Denmark, Germany and the UK into southern Norway. Cruise ships also cover Norway extensively (particularly the fjords). Or you could join the Coastal Express once you arrive, to see more of Norway’s dramatic coastline.
A FINAL NOTE
I hope this little Norway hub has helped you feel excited (and well prepared!) to plan your own solo trip to Norway. Whether you’re dreaming of chasing the infamous Northern Lights, crossing the Arctic Circle with Havila or Hurtigruten, or joining the huskies for dog sledding in Kirkenes, I promise this country has so much to offer as a solo female traveller!
→ Still have questions? You can always send me an email. 💌
