Verified Facts
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Norway before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Norway is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on social welfare and community. Visitors to Norway can feel secure walking around cities and towns, even at night, and are unlikely to encounter any serious problems. However, as with any country, it's still important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings. Norway is also a very welcoming country, with a strong culture of tolerance and respect for visitors.
Overall, Norway is a great destination for travelers, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and friendly people. While it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take some basic precautions, the risk of crime or other safety issues is relatively low. With some common sense and basic precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Norway. Whether you're interested in hiking and outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or simply exploring the country's charming towns and cities, Norway has something to offer for every kind of traveler.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oslo | High | Generally safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence |
| Bergen | High | A popular tourist destination, with a lively atmosphere and low crime rates |
| Tromsø | High | A safe and welcoming city, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities |
| Fjord Region | High | A popular area for hiking and outdoor activities, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community |
| Eastern Norway | Moderate | Some areas can be quite rural, with limited services and amenities |
| Northern Norway | Moderate | Can be quite remote, with limited services and amenities, and some areas may be affected by the polar night |
| Svalbard | Low | A remote archipelago with limited services and amenities, and a high risk of polar bears and other wildlife |
| Border areas with Russia | Low | Some areas may be restricted due to military activity or other security concerns |
Common Risks & Scams
- Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, especially in Oslo and other major cities.
- Scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced taxi rides or fake tourist information, are relatively rare but can occur.
- Hiking and outdoor activities can be hazardous, especially in remote areas with limited services and amenities.
- Weather conditions, such as strong winds and rough seas, can be a hazard, especially in coastal areas.
- Polar bears and other wildlife can be a risk in some areas, especially in Northern Norway and Svalbard.
- Some areas may be affected by the polar night, with limited daylight and cold temperatures.
- Credit card skimming and other forms of financial fraud can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Norway, but it's always a good idea to make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
- Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink, and bottled water is widely available.
- Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are of high quality and widely available, especially in major cities.
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are easy to find, and many medications are available over the counter.
Practical Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, and consider using a money belt or other secure bag.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in coastal areas.
- Follow local advice and guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing.
- Learn some basic Norwegian phrases, such as "hei" (hello) and "takk" (thank you).
- Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities or travel to remote areas.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.
- Keep your valuables safe and secure, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Norway is generally a very safe country for solo and women travelers, with low crime rates and a strong culture of respect and tolerance.
- However, it's still important to take some basic precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings.
- Consider joining a guided tour or group, especially if you're planning to travel to remote areas or engage in outdoor activities.
- Be prepared for some areas to be quite rural, with limited services and amenities, and plan accordingly.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help or advice from locals, who are generally very friendly and welcoming.