Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. But it’s also one of the most expensive. The good news: You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy everything it offers! With a bit of planning and insider knowledge, you can explore Norway’s stunning landscapes and cities without destroying your budget.
Accommodation
Stay in Hostels
Accommodation in Norway can be pretty expensive, but hostels are a solid option. In larger cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, you’ll find clean, centrally located hostels that will cost you a lot less than hotels. You can get a dorm bed for about 200-500 NOK. Some hostels even include free breakfast in that price.
Consider Camping
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If you’re traveling during the warmer months, Norway is a paradise for campers. Thanks to Norway’s “Right to Roam” (Allemannsretten), you’re allowed to pitch a tent in most untouched areas for free. Just be sure to follow the rules: Stay at least 150 meters away from houses or cabins, and clean up after yourself.
Check out Airbnb & Couchsurfing
Airbnb offers plenty of cheaper accommodation options in Norway, especially if you book in advance. Another cost-saving option is Couchsurfing. Not only will you save money this way, but you’ll also meet locals and get some insider tips on where to go and what to do!
Food
Cook Your Own Meals
Eating out in Norway is incredibly expensive. Even a simple meal can cost you 150-300 NOK. A great way to save is by cooking your own food. If you stay in hostels, many have kitchens available. Stock up on groceries at supermarkets like Kiwi, Rema1000, or Coop. Bread, cheese, pasta, and veggies are affordable and can make simple, budget-friendly meals.
Buy Ready-Made Meals From Grocery Stores
If cooking isn’t for you, you can at least avoid restaurants by purchasing ready-made meals. Supermarkets often sell sandwiches, salads, and pizzas at a much lower price than you’d pay at a restaurant. You’ll usually find these near the checkout or in refrigerated sections.
Bring Your Snacks From Home
If you know you’re going to want snacks during your hikes or train rides, pack them before you arrive in Norway. Things like trail mix, granola bars, and other easy-to-carry snacks are much cheaper outside of Norway. Stocking up before your trip will save you a lot of money.
Transportation
Use Public Transport
Public transportation in Norway is efficient but not always cheap. However, there are ways to cut down costs. If you’re sticking to the cities, consider buying city travel cards that cover buses, trams, and ferries. Oslo, for example, offers the Ruter card, which gives you unlimited travel within the city.
Travel by Bus
In rural areas, flights and trains can be expensive, but buses are usually much cheaper. Companies like Nor-Way Bussekspress offer routes across the country, and if you book early, you can snag a ticket for a fraction of the price.
Book Trains in Advance
If you want to travel by train—especially on the scenic routes like the Oslo to Bergen line—be sure to book your tickets in advance on the Vy app (formerly NSB). The earlier you book, the more budget-friendly your ticket will be. You can often find “Minipris” tickets starting from 199 NOK for long journeys.
Get the Norway in a Nutshell Pass
Planning to see Norway’s famous fjords? The Norway in a Nutshell pass is a cost-effective way to experience some of the best landscapes the country has to offer. The pass includes a combo of trains, buses, and boats, giving you a well-rounded fjord experience for a solid price.
Attractions & Activities
Don’t Miss the Free Nature
Norway’s biggest attraction is its natural beauty—and that’s 100% free! Hiking trails, mountains, and fjords await you at no cost. Some of the best free hikes include Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), Trolltunga, and the Besseggen Ridge. Bring good shoes and a backpack with snacks, and enjoy the stunning views.
Visit Free Museums & Parks
In larger cities like Oslo, you’ll find several free museums or those with free entry on specific days. The Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo, for example, hosts stunning artwork and is completely free to visit. Bergen also has a handful of free cultural sites and parks where you can enjoy the local scenery for nothing.
Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours
Several companies offer free walking tours in major cities like Oslo and Bergen. It’s an excellent way to explore and learn about the city’s history and culture without spending money. Remember to tip the guide at the end, but these tours are still cheaper than paid tours.
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Oslo
Oslo is expensive, but there are plenty of free or budget-friendly things to do. Visit the aforementioned Vigeland Sculpture Park, explore the fortifications at Akershus Fortress, or walk around the modern architecture of Bjørvika. The city’s public beaches are also free, so in summer, pack a picnic and swim with the locals.
Bergen
Bergen is known for its beautiful Hanseatic wharf and access to the fjords. Explore the Bryggen Wharf for free, or take the inexpensive public bus up to Mount Fløyen for hiking with panoramic views. With the Fjord Pass, you can also get discounts on local attractions.
Trondheim
Trondheim may not be as talked about as Oslo or Bergen, but this smaller city has a lot to offer at a lower cost. Many of the city’s churches, like the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, are free to view from the outside, and the city’s rock-cut monks’ island can be visited with a budget ferry pass.
Extra Tips for Saving Money in Norway
Buy a Tourist Card
Cities like Oslo and Bergen offer tourist cards that give you unlimited access to public transportation as well as free or reduced entry to museums, attractions, and more. For example, the Oslo Pass includes free entry to over 30 museums and discounts on restaurants and activities, making the investment worthwhile if you plan on sightseeing heavily.
Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Tap water in Norway is incredibly clean and 100% safe to drink. Avoid spending money on bottled water by bringing a refillable bottle and filling up at taps and fountains. It’ll cut down your costs and reduce plastic waste.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol in Norway is shockingly expensive. If you’re on a budget, it’s best to avoid bars and stick to drinking at home or in your accommodation (if it’s allowed). If you do want to have a drink, buy from Vinmonopolet, the state-run liquor store, which is still expensive but cheaper than bars or restaurants.
Following these tips, you can enjoy Norway without worrying too much about costs. With a little planning and flexibility, budget travel in Norway is possible. And with its stunning natural beauty and rich culture, it’s worth every penny!
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