Solo travel in Norway allows you to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world at your own pace.
Norway’s rugged coastline, snow-capped mountains, and unique culture make it an ideal destination.
From the charming streets of Oslo to the remote wilderness of Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella, Norway has something for everyone.
In this article, I will take a closer look at solo travel, sharing tips on where to go, what to do, and how to make the most out of your solo adventure in this stunning Scandinavian country.
Let’s go solo travel in Norway!
Norway Solo Travel Basics
Norway has a travel registration system called “Entry Registration,” which travelers must complete before arrival. For up-to-date information on travel requirements to Norway, it is best to check the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration’s website.
Norway has a varied climate, with coastal areas having mild winters and cool summers and inland areas experiencing cold winters and warm summers.
During the summer months, the northern parts of Norway experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun does not set for several weeks, while in the winter months, they experience the polar night, where the sun does not rise for several weeks.
Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) is the main airport serving Oslo, located approximately 31 miles north of the city center. The airport offers international and domestic flights.
Bergen Airport Flesland (BGO) is the main airport serving Bergen, located approximately 11 miles south of the city center, and also offers international and domestic flights.
Norway has a well-developed train network operated by the state-owned company Vy. The trains connect major cities and towns across the country, including Oslo and Bergen, and provide reliable, comfortable, and punctual service.
That said, during the winter months, train service disruptions may occur due to weather conditions. For more information about train travel in Norway, it is best to check the Vy website.
Is Norway Good for Solo Traveling?
Is Norway Good for Solo Traveling? Yes, Norway is a great destination for solo travelers. With its stunning natural scenery, friendly locals, and safe environment, it’s easy to navigate and explore on your own.
Is It Safe to Travel Alone in Oslo?
Is It Safe to Travel Alone in Oslo? Yes, Oslo is generally a safe city for solo travelers. As with any travel destination, it’s important to take precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables secure.
Is Norway Cheap to Travel?
Is Norway Cheap to Travel? No, Norway is generally an expensive country to travel in. Accommodation, transportation, and food can be costly, but there are ways to save money, such as traveling during the off-season or cooking your own meals.
How Many Days Are Enough for Norway?
How Many Days Are Enough for Norway? It depends on what you want to see and do in Norway, but a minimum of 5-7 days is recommended to get a taste of the country’s natural beauty and culture. For a more comprehensive visit, 10-14 days is ideal.
What is the Best Month to Go to Norway?
What is the Best Month to Go to Norway? I’d say June to August offer long days and warm weather, while winter months from December to February are ideal for skiing and Northern Lights viewing. The shoulder seasons of May and September also offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
The best time to visit Norway depends on your interests and priorities.
Solo Female Travel in Norway
Traveling alone as a woman in Norway is usually safe and pleasant. Norway is considered one of the safest countries globally, with low rates of crime and violence. Women can walk alone in cities like Oslo and Bergen, even at night, although it is wise to be cautious and use common sense while traveling alone.
Norway is known for its progressiveness in valuing gender equality, and women are treated with respect and dignity. Women can dress as they like and are not restricted by dress codes or norms.
Norway’s strong social welfare system includes affordable healthcare and childcare, making it easier for women to balance work and family life. Therefore, women in Norway often have higher levels of education and participate actively in the workforce.
Although solo female travelers can feel safe and welcome in Norway, it’s vital to take precautions, such as being mindful of the surroundings, securing valuables, and avoiding walking alone in isolated areas at night. It is also advisable to research local customs and laws before traveling to a new destination.
Overall, Norway is a fantastic destination for solo female travelers, with its breathtaking natural beauty, friendly locals, and safe environment.
Destinations in Norway for Solo Travel
Norway is probably famous for its stunning natural landscapes. With fjords, mountains, and forests, Norway is a popular solo travel destination.
The country has a rich cultural heritage, and many cities, including Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, offer museums, galleries, and historical landmarks. So, it’s a cool country for urban lovers, too.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, cycling, kayaking, and more. Norwegians seem to really like the outdoors.
Here are a few destinations.
Oslo
I will never forget the first time I visited Oslo, and I’m pretty sure you won’t either. Oslo is simply a fantastic city. It truly has a ton to offer to solo travelers.
Oslo has breathtaking views of the Oslofjord, which is a beautiful inlet in the southeastern part of Norway.
The city also has charming streets filled with cafes and stores and a variety of cultural attractions that cater to different interests.
If you’re into history at all, you definitely want to visit the Viking Ship Museum, which makes you feel like you stepped back in time.
Meanwhile, you can explore the intriguing Vigeland Sculpture Park or check out other unique landmarks that the city has to offer, like the Akershus Fortress, the Opera House, and, of course, the Royal Palace.
What’s even better is that Oslo is a very safe place to visit, so you can relax and have fun during your trip without worrying about your safety.
So, the food in Oslo is amazing. There are tons of diverse cuisines, but if you want to try something traditional, go for “Fårikål.” We are talking about lamb, cabbage, whole black peppercorns, and potatoes. Yumminess.
Of course, there are more cities… so…
Bergen
Bergen is another charming destination, perfect for solo travelers. If you are planning to visit this picturesque city, there are plenty of exciting things to do.
You can start by exploring the Hanseatic Wharf, known as Bryggen, which showcases the city’s history with its charming wooden buildings. This truly is another chance to step back in time.
Taking the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen will give you breathtaking views of Bergen and its surrounding areas. Just really go for it.
Fisketorget, the local fish market, is a great place to experience the city’s vibrant energy and try fresh seafood. Lunch will never be the same once you go to this fish market. There are over 150 fish species here.
The Bergenhus Fortress is an iconic landmark that has witnessed centuries of Norwegian history, and its museums offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
For art lovers, the KODE Art Museums house an impressive collection of Norwegian art, including works by Edvard Munch.
Finally, a fjord cruise is a must-do activity to explore the natural beauty of the region. It also doubles as a relaxation part of your trip!
Oh, and in terms of food, one dish that you should definitely try when in Bergen is “Bergensk fiskesuppe.”
This soup is a hearty and flavorful combination of fish, potatoes, carrots, onions, and cream, seasoned with herbs and spices like dill and bay leaves.
And, naturally, with bread!
Stavanger / Sandnes
Stavanger and Sandnes, two neighboring cities in southwestern Norway, make up a great metro area with a few other urban places. I find this area to be perfect for solo travel.
This gorgeous area offers a variety of activities and sights to see, including visiting the Old Stavanger neighborhood. This picturesque area is known for its white wooden houses and cobblestone streets. You can wander around, grab a coffee at a cafe, and take in the quaint atmosphere.
Likewise, you can hike to Pulpit Rock. This challenging but rewarding hike takes you to the famous Pulpit Rock, which offers a breathtaking view of the Lysefjord.
Finally, do not miss out on checking out the Stavanger Cathedral. This impressive cathedral, built in the 12th century, is one of the oldest churches in Norway.
In terms of food, try “Lapskaus,” a savory stew made with beef or lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.
The ingredients are slowly cooked together in a pot, resulting in a flavorful broth that’s perfect for a cold day.
This traditional Norwegian dish is hearty, delicious, and definitely worth trying if you’re in the region.
Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella National Park
Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella is a natural wonder that is truly worth visiting. The park is located in the northern part of Norway, and every solo traveler I’ve met who’s been there raves about it.
I have to say, this place is truly magical… because the sheer variety of plant and animal life you can find is astounding – from reindeer, lynx, and moose, to many different kinds of birds and fish.
The park’s rugged landscape includes breathtaking mountains, deep valleys, and stunningly clear rivers and lakes that will take your breath away. It’s the kind of place that will make you feel like you want to stay there forever.
If you’re the type of person who loves immersing yourself in nature and exploring the great outdoors, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this park. There are plenty of trails and paths to take you on an adventure through the incredible scenery.
Even though it’s situated in a remote area, Blåfjella-Skjækerfjella National Park is easily accessible by car, and there are several campsites and lodges inside the park where you can stay.
If you’re looking for a chance to disconnect from the chaos of city life and recharge in a peaceful and serene environment, this park is the perfect destination for you.
Maybe after you explore the park, you want to try one traditional dish that’s popular in this region?
“Rømmegrøt” is a rich and creamy porridge made with sour cream, flour, and butter.
The porridge is typically served with cured meat, such as bacon or cured sausage, and sometimes with lingonberry jam.
Yum.
Northern Lights
Okay, so this isn’t exactly a ‘destination’ but a major thing to do! The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are a spectacular natural light display that can be seen in the night sky, particularly in the far north during winter months.
This is an awe-inspiring phenomenon that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a beautiful display of dancing lights in the sky.
The best places to see the Northern Lights are typically located near the Earth’s magnetic poles, such as in Norway.
Some of the solo travel-friendly locations to witness the Northern Lights include Tromsø, Nordkapp, and Lofoten islands.
In these places, you can see them with greater frequency and intensity, but keep in mind that they can be unpredictable… so even in these locations, there is no guarantee of seeing them.
Definitely one of the truly must-see natural wonders that will leave you in awe of the beauty of our planet.
Oh, and by the way, one traditional dish you should try when in Tromsø is “Bacalao.”
This is truly a hearty dish. Bacalao is a fish stew made with salted cod, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. Perfect for winter.
Solo Travel in Norway – Final Thoughts
Norway is a fantastic destination for solo travelers. Adventure in the mountains, peaceful retreat in nature, or cultural experiences in the cities, Norway has something to offer for everyone.
As a solo traveler, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, connect with locals, and create unforgettable memories.
So, use this guide… pack your bags, book your ticket, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
AJ Paris is a travel photographer based in New York. He is the editor of Caravanzers.
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