Is Norway Safe For Solo Female Travellers? (+ Safety Tips)

Before I travelled solo through Norway’s most iconic cities and fjords, and along its beautiful snow-covered coastline, I remember asking myself the same question you’re wondering right now: is Norway safe for solo female travellers?

And my answer is yes – but with a few important things you need to know before you go.

Norway is one of the safest countries in Europe I’ve ever travelled solo in, but safety as a solo female traveller definitely isn’t just about crime stats or Global Peace rankings.

Instead, it’s about how a place feels when you’re walking back to your hotel alone at night, using public transport, or walking a remote trail on your own.

So that’s exactly what I want to help you understand: what solo travel in Norway really feels like, straight from my own experiences as a solo female traveller in Norway!

I solo travelled Norway extensively this past winter, wandering Oslo’s quiet, snowy streets, getting lost in charming Bryggen, and watching the Northern Lights dance over Tromsø.

Ready? This blog post has everything I wish I’d known before that first trip!

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Is Norway Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Yes, Norway is one of the safest countries in the world for women travelling alone. But that doesn’t mean that visiting is risk-free (because no country is!)

When solo travelling in Norway, your main safety concerns should be practical, like dressing properly for the cold in winter, staying alert when driving or walking on snow and ice, and following smart precautions on hiking trails.

On paper, the numbers are seriously reassuring too!

According to Numbeo, the level of crime in Norway is low, with safety walking alone during the day scoring high and safety walking alone at night scoring moderate.

Statista also says that Norway has seen a decrease in overall crime over the past decade.

Violent crimes are also rare, petty theft is definitely not as big an issue as in other parts of mainland Europe, and Scandinavia’s respect and equality culture makes Norway one of the most comfortable-feeling countries I’ve travelled to solo in Europe!

But like I said, “safe” or even reassuring stats don’t mean risk-free.

You should still use your usual solo travel safety habits, and also know that the biggest danger for solo travellers in Norway is underestimating nature.

Always respect nature here, check local weather forecasts before you travel anywhere (especially hiking), and never ever take unnecessary risks for a photo.

Katie’s Top Tip: In Norway, safety is about preparation. Check weather apps daily (Yr.no is brilliant for this!), wear the proper gear for the season, and remember your normal solo travel safety precautions.

Understanding Norway’s Culture

One of the main reasons I can confidently respond to “Is Norway safe for solo female travellers?” with yes is because of Norway’s (and Scandinavia’s) culture.

Social interactions in Scandinavia are built on trust, equality and personal responsibility.

And you’ll notice this everywhere when you visit.

Norwegians are also famously reserved, which can sometimes be seen as being cold, but it’s actually just another part of their culture to respect others.

Local people typically won’t invade your space or strike up random small talk.

But again, that’s not rudeness. It’s actually called the Janteloven mindset, which is a culture in Scandi countries that values humility and equality above all else.

In my experience, this made solo travel in Norway feel incredibly peaceful and low-pressure.

Katie’s Top Tip: This quiet culture is great and reassuring as a solo female traveller, but it also means you’ll need to make the first move if you want to connect. I found that if you show locals kindness or even genuine curiosity about their country, they are incredibly warm.

Attitudes Towards Women in Norway

If you’re wondering, is Norway safe for women specifically, let’s answer that now!

Norway consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for gender equality and women’s rights, according to the annual Gender Gap Report.

And that isn’t just a stat.

You’ll see it in everyday life here too, from women out hiking alone, to running big companies, to enjoying solo nights out.

During my own time solo travelling in Norway in winter, I never felt like I stood out just for being a woman on my own.

Harassment is also rare and very socially unacceptable in Norway (more on this later).

Don’t get me wrong, that doesn’t mean it never happens, but compared to the many other countries in Europe I’ve solo-travelled to, Norway felt very safe and peaceful.

Katie’s Top Tip: Remember that women travelling solo is completely normal here in Norway, so feel free to kick back a little bit and relax here (without giving up completely on those few smart safety precautions, of course!)

How to Dress in Norway

Dressing right in Norway isn’t just about fitting in, like it is in a lot of other European countries.

Instead, it’s about dressing for both safety and comfort.

Locals in Norway have a famous saying: “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.” And that’s so true, especially in winter.

Norway’s weather changes fast and, even in summer, you will often experience all four seasons in one day.

And the key to this? Layering!

A good quality, breathable base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof and windproof outer shell are your essentials for staying comfortable in Norway (or anywhere in Scandinavia, really!)

But if you do want to dress to fit in, know that (from what I saw) Norwegians usually dress practically and modestly, but also effortlessly stylish – especially in the cities.

And, especially in Oslo, personal style is usually minimalist and neutral-coloured.

As a solo female traveller, this makes it super easy to blend in and avoid standing out as a tourist. (I feel like we all have neutral basics in our wardrobe, right? And that’s exactly what you should reach for here!)

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, bring slip-on ice grips for your shoes! After multiple trips across Scandinavia in winter, I swear by them! They take up hardly any space and will make you much steadier on your feet in the snow and ice. These are the ones I have. I’m a UK women’s size 8 (or size 9 in snow boots) and I ordered the size XL, if that helps with sizing.

Norway Crime Rates

Let’s talk numbers now, because Norway’s crime rates are low compared to a lot of other popular countries and cities across Europe.

According to Numbeo’s latest data, overall crime rates are low, and violent crimes such as assault, muggings or armed robbery score reassuringly low too.

Plus, safety walking alone during daylight hours is high, and even at night, most people feel safe, rating it as moderate.

Statista’s data also confirms that Norway’s total number of reported crimes has decreased over the past decade. Theft and burglary remain the most reported offences here, but even they’ve dropped.

Norway’s only recent security incident was the awful 2022 Oslo terrorist attack, targeting the LGBTQ+ community. It was a terrible but rare and isolated event, in an otherwise largely peaceful country.

Katie’s Top Tip: Download the Hjelp 113 app before you go, as it gives you the numbers for all emergency services at the touch of a button, and also gives you your live coordinates.

Risk of Theft in Norway

Theft (and especially petty theft) in Norway is a lot less common compared to a lot of other European countries.

Numbeo gives Norway a low score for worries about being mugged or robbed.

But, even though Norway is one of the safest countries in the world, petty theft definitely still happens – especially in touristy areas like Oslo Central Station or the Bryggen Wharf in Bergen.

So if you’re solo travelling in Norway, it’s still sensible to take the same precautions you would anywhere else in the world when it comes to your possessions.

Things like keeping valuables out of sight, avoiding leaving your phone or bag unattended, using hotel safes if they’re available, and wearing a cross-body bag to store valuables you need to carry with you throughout the day.

I’ve also heard of theft from cars in more remote areas, especially near popular hiking trailheads, where tourists leave valuables in their vehicles.

To avoid this, always remove visible valuables and double-check that you’ve locked your car before leaving it. (It sounds so simple, right? But it’s so easy to forget!)

Katie’s Top Tip: Norway may feel safe (and, to be honest, it mostly is!), but don’t let that make you forget your travel safety habits. Keep your essential valuables zipped away and stay alert in busy areas, like you would anywhere else.

Risk of Terrorism in Norway

Terrorism in Norway is extremely rare, but unfortunately not unheard of.

The awful 2022 Oslo attack on the LGBTQ+ community, which killed two people, was a truly heartbreaking reminder that no country is immune to terrorism nowadays.

However, you should also know that this was an isolated incident at the time, and Norway still remains one of the safest countries to travel to.

Importantly for us, Numbeo ranks worries about being subject to attack because of skin colour, ethnicity, gender or religion as low.

The Norwegian Police Security Service regularly assesses the terrorism threat level, and it’s currently rated as high. (Sadly, this is the case now in a lot of countries around the world.)

But even so, locals go about their lives as normal, and major events still go ahead with strong safety measures in place. Plus, I noticed a reassuring police presence in the cities, so there’s always help around if you need it.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re ever unsure, check your own government’s travel advice page for Norway, for all of the up-to-date information.

Risk of Violent Crime in Norway

Violent crime in Norway is very rare, especially against tourists.

According to Numbeo, Norway scores low for worries about violent crimes. And Statista also reports that the overall crime rate in Norway has decreased over the past decade.

Importantly, a lot of the violent incidents that do happen in Norway are typically domestic or alcohol-related, rather than random.

As a solo female traveller, I found all Norwegians that I interacted with to be respectful and, like I said earlier, very reserved.

I also always felt comfortable walking around and exploring the towns and cities by myself, mixing with both locals and tourists.

Norway just has a very relaxed feel, even in Oslo.

Katie’s Top Tip: Like anywhere, always trust your gut instincts. If you’re out late or something (or someone) feels off, don’t be afraid to leave straight away or even call for a taxi instead of walking if you feel uncomfortable. You don’t owe anyone anything at the expense of your safety and peace of mind.

Risk of Harassment in Norway

Norway is one of the strongest countries in the world for gender equality, and my experience as a solo female traveller here matched that, as I felt comfortable and respected.

Street harassment and catcalling are rare (especially compared to other European countries), but that definitely doesn’t mean it’s non-existent.

You should still stay aware of your surroundings, especially around heavy nightlife areas in Oslo or Bergen (especially just after the bars close).

According to Statista, reports of sexual crimes did rise between 2014 and 2018 before stabilising again, but experts say this was more to do with better awareness and reporting rather than an actual increase in incidents.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re heading out solo to enjoy the nightlife, stick to venues with good reputations (check reviews for this before going!) Also, keep an eye on your drink at all times and always plan how you’ll get back to your accommodation safely before you start drinking.

Risk of Pickpocketing in Norway

Pickpocketing or petty theft in Norway isn’t common, but like anywhere in Europe, it does happen in those busy, touristy areas.

You’re most likely to see pickpockets in central Oslo, in the narrow streets of Bryggen, at major train stations, or sometimes on the Oslo–Bergen or Flam Railway during peak season.

Just remember to take sensible safety precautions, like wearing a crossbody bag, avoiding keeping cash or valuables visible, and always staying alert in busy areas.

Katie’s Top Tip: If your hotel or accommodation has a safe, leave your most important valuables behind and only carry what you need. Norway is mostly cashless anyway, so chances are you’ll only need to carry a card or two to get through your day.

Risk of Scams in Norway + Common Scams to Watch Out For

One of the best parts about solo travel safety in Norway is that scams are genuinely rare here.

Local Norwegians are famously honest, and the low corruption rate (rated just 25.58 on Numbeo) definitely reflects that.

I never saw any of the pushy tourist scams that are common in southern Europe here in Norway. So no fake petitions, annoying street sellers, or over-friendly strangers harassing you into trying their product.

In fact, most Norwegians will leave you alone entirely unless you ask for help.

But it’s always smart to stay alert and aware.

The most common scams in Norway are:

• Unreputable taxis that don’t run the meter (especially to and from Oslo Airport)
• Fake accommodation listings
• Unofficial tour resellers charging inflated prices online, particularly for Northern Lights excursions or fjord cruises

But avoiding these scams is easy if you make sure you always book through reputable companies (e.g. NorgesTaxi for Taxis, Booking.com or Expedia for accommodation, and GetYourGuide for tours).

Katie’s Top Tip: If a deal feels too good to be true, it usually is! I always double-check reviews on Google and TripAdvisor (not just on their own website, where reviews can easily be faked) before booking anything.

Norway Emergency Number

If you’re ever in any trouble, these are the numbers for Norway’s emergency services:

• Police is 112
• Ambulance is 113
• Fire is 110

All calls are free, and the dispatchers speak both Norwegian and excellent English.

Katie’s Top Tip: I recommend saving these numbers in your phone before you travel, just in case you can’t look them up if you need them. It’s also worth downloading the Hjelp 113 app, which has all of those emergency numbers listed and gives you your exact coordinates to share.

The Safest Places to Visit in Norway

Norway is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, and this definitely shows in how peaceful it feels (even in the big cities like Oslo and Bergen!)

Statista shows that overall crime has decreased over the past decade, and Numbeo reports high daytime safety scores across the country as a whole.

But some places definitely stand out to me for their calm, welcoming atmosphere.

So if you’re wondering where to go on your first solo trip to Norway, Tromsø, Bergen, Trondheim, and Svolvaer in the Lofoten Islands all top my list for being particularly safe and friendly (and also beautiful, of course!)

Katie’s Top Tip: Norway’s safest and most beautiful destinations are also quite remote and aren’t the easiest to get to (especially Svolvaer), so plan your travel carefully. I would 100% recommend you join The Coastal Express from Bergen to easily see all of these beautiful places (and more!)

Places to Avoid in Norway

There aren’t many places I’d say you should avoid in Norway as a solo female traveller. But like any country, there are areas where you’ll want to stay more aware.

For example, in Oslo, neighbourhoods around the main train station (especially Grønland, Brugata street and Vaterland) feel a bit sketchy late at night if you’re alone.

Grønland, in particular, has issues with higher crime rates, including theft, assault, and drug-related activity.

But beyond that, Norway really doesn’t have any no-go areas. Even the larger but more remote cities (like Bodø or Trondheim) are calm, clean and well-policed.

The bigger concern in Norway is nature, especially during the winter when mountain roads or trails, icy pavements, and extreme weather can bring new risks for solo female travellers.

Norway’s nature is seriously stunning, but you should always respect and never underestimate the conditions it can bring by following local weather warnings and advice.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re heading out solo at night in Oslo, avoid cutting through quiet side streets. Instead, stick to main roads where there are people around, and book a taxi if it’s late or you feel uncomfortable.

Is Norway Safe at Night?

In my experience, walking alone at night in Norway feels very different from most other countries. And in terms of numbers from Numbeo, it’s ranked as being moderately safe.

Even in the big cities like Oslo or Bergen, you’ll often find women out walking alone, especially in summer when the sun sets super late (around 10:43pm in the middle of June).

But in winter, the vibe in Norway at night is very different.

Darkness sets in early (or, in the far north, the sun doesn’t rise at all), and because of that, the streets can be empty, icy and also low-lit, especially in smaller towns.

Don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t mean it’s unsafe, but it can definitely feel isolating as a solo female traveller – especially if you’re not used to long, dark winters.

For the most part, though, Norway feels very safe at night!

And don’t forget that you need the darkness to be able to get out and chase those incredible (and elusive) Northern Lights, if that’s on your bucket list!

Katie’s Top Tip: As always, always trust your gut. If a street feels too quiet, don’t be afraid to change your route or call for a taxi. I also carry a small keychain safety alarm at night. I’ve never had to use it in Norway, but it’s just an extra layer of peace of mind that makes a big difference.

Nightlife in Norway

So nightlife probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you picture Norway, right?

In Norway, drinks are seriously pricey, and locals often pre-drink at home before heading out into the city’s bars or clubs.

But if you do want a night out, you’ll find the atmosphere to feel generally safe, laid-back and friendly, as most Norwegians drink to unwind, rather than cause chaos!!

Oslo and Bergen have the liveliest nightlife scenes, if that’s what you’re looking for, with everything from a famous nightclub on the historic Bryggen Wharf to elegant cocktail bars in central Oslo.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you want to go out for the evening but don’t want to experience the nightlife alone, a great compromise is to join a group experience like this beer and culture walk in Oslo. That way, you’ll still get out and socialise, just with a local guide who will help you to feel safe.

Safest Time of Year to Visit Norway

When it comes to when to visit, every season in Norway is safe and beautiful in its own way.

Winter in Norway (November–March) is incredibly magical, with the Northern Lights, beautiful snowy landscapes and fewer crowds.

But it’s also when those weather-related risks most replace the human ones.

Roads (especially in remote areas) ice over, daylight hours shrink to even 0 in the far north of the country, and avalanches are also a risk.

So if you’re solo travelling in Norway during winter, make sure you know what to expect, plan carefully for your trip, and always follow local advice.

Summer in Norway (June–August) is peak travel season, with long days, nicer (and less volatile!) weather conditions, and endless daylight in the north, thanks to the Midnight Sun.

It’s arguably the safest time for solo travel in Norway (or at least the easiest), with easy transport connections, all hikes open, and plenty of other tourists around.

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) in Norway are ideal if you can’t choose between winter and summer.

The daylight hours are shorter than in summer but longer than in winter, most hiking trails are still open, and the towns and cities are buzzing with people, without feeling overwhelming like in the peak summer months.

Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re a first-time solo traveller, go for May or September. You’ll get enough daylight hours to explore, fewer weather worries, and the perfect balance of enough people but not too crowded.

But if you want to know my personal favourite month? It would have to be March! There’s just something about Norway in winter, despite all of its challenges, that is just so magical!

Is English Spoken in Norway?

Yes! Over 90% of Norwegians speak English fluently, and I think many even speak it better than us native speakers (seriously!)

English is taught from a young age in Norwegian schools, so even in remote villages, you shouldn’t have a problem being understood by locals.

Also, signs, menus and ticket machines are almost always bilingual, and most official websites will automatically switch to the English versions when they see your IP location.

Katie’s Top Tip: Learning a few basic words in Norwegian, like takk (thank you) and hei (hi), is still appreciated by locals, though, and shows respect for the place you’re visiting!

Is Public Transport Safe and Reliable in Norway?

Public transport in Norway is some of the best I’ve ever experienced, anywhere in Europe!

Trains, buses and ferries in Norway are (generally) punctual, clean and extremely friendly:

• The Vy train network connects major cities like Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. The train between Oslo and Bergen is especially scenic.
• Nor-Way Buses handle the more rural routes and also the popular Gudvangen to Voss tourist route (as part of the Flam Railway experience from Oslo to Bergen).
• Ferries connect the fjords and the coast (although this can sometimes be weather permitting, especially in winter).
• And even domestic flights, most commonly run by Wideroe, are very well-organised here, especially if you’re travelling in the north of the country.

I really appreciated the safety of public transport in Norway, with well-lit stations, visible CCTV, a good security presence, and super helpful apps to track real-time routes.

During winter, delays happen due to snow or icy tracks, but I never had anything severely impact my trip, and the staff would be happy to help out if this does happen.

Katie’s Top Tip: Download the Vy app to buy tickets, check timetables and see live updates for your service. This was so helpful for me when I was travelling from Oslo to Bergen and juggling multiple connections!

Top Solo Female Travel Safety Tips for Norway

So, is Norway safe for solo female travellers? Absolutely! But being aware and prepared still goes a long way to how safe you will feel on the ground here in Norway.

Here are my most practical safety tips for solo female travel in Norway:

1. Stay aware of the weather. Norway’s biggest risks come from nature rather than people, so check local forecasts daily.
2. Use official transport apps, like Vy, for real-time info. I found this app to be very reliable and easy to use!
3. Dress for all seasons (yes, even in one day!) Norwegian weather changes fast, so layers and waterproofs are your travel BFFs, even in summer.
4. Respect the conditions. Norway’s nature is stunning but remote. Always tell someone your hiking route and keep an eye on avalanche alerts in winter.
5. Stay on marked trails. It’s so easy to wander off the path for the perfect photo, but this is so risky and just not worth it.
6. If you’re driving, check your car has winter tyres in winter and also try to avoid remote routes or mountain passes after dark.
7. Trust your instincts. If a situation or person feels off, don’t be afraid to remove yourself. No apologies or explanations needed. I always say your gut is your best safety tool when solo travelling!

So, Is Norway Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

After travelling solo across Norway, exploring everywhere from Oslo’s peaceful streets to Tromsø’s snow-covered harbour and the dramatic fjords in between, I can honestly say that yes, Norway is one of the safest countries I’ve ever been to as a solo female traveller!

And it’s not just the low crime stats or reassuring numbers that make it feel safe.

Instead, it’s all rooted in the culture of Norway (and Scandinavia as a whole).

Local Norwegians respect personal space, gender equality and trust. So you won’t find much catcalling or street harassment here.

I personally found Norway to feel very calm, and that allowed me to feel quietly confident during my trip, even in remote areas.

However, safety in Norway is a lot about being smart with nature and weather conditions, especially if your trip happens to be during winter.

Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or sailing through the fjords, preparation is key! Know the weather, plan your routes carefully, and don’t forget to pack those layers!

Read More About Travel in Norway:

• 11 Things To Do in Oslo in Winter (That Aren’t Just Museums)
• 12 Magical Things To Do in Bergen in Winter (Cosy & Fun!)
• Norway Coastal Express in Winter: Solo Travel Guide + Review
• Svolvaer Travel Guide (+ 7 Things To Do in Svolvaer, Norway)
• The BEST Northern Lights Tour From Tromsø (Review + Tips!)
• Is Norway Safe For Solo Female Travellers? (+ Safety Tips)
• 15 BEST Things to Do in Tromsø in Winter for First-Timers

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