How to Enjoy Norway on a Budget

Packed with natural wonders and uniquely Scandinavian charm, Norway is a destination not to be missed. Sadly, many travellers write it off as simply too expensive – don’t make this mistake! Although a Norwegian vacation will never be as budget-friendly as a trip to Southeast Asia, a little planning and a sense of adventure can make a visit to this stunning country affordable. This is your essential guide to enjoying Norway on a budget. 

What’s the best time to visit Norway on a budget? 

Norway is strikingly beautiful all year round, however, the decision of when to travel might have a significant impact on your budget, so there are a few things to consider. 

• The winter months (December – February) are all about short days, spectacular snowscapes and cosy evenings by the fire, not to mention the delights of a Scandinavian Christmas.
• Summer (June-August) is downright idyllic as the nation busies itself with festivals, boating and outdoor pursuits while the long days stretch on forever – after all, it is called the Land of the Midnight Sun.

As for our suggestion of when to go? Save some cash and get the best of both worlds by visiting during the shoulder season. Consider travelling in September, when the days are fairly warm and most summer tourist attractions will still be open, or March, when there’s plenty of snowfall but the days are starting to lengthen.

Of course, if you’re determined to experience a particular attraction that’s season specific (northern lights, anyone?) you’ll need to plan your visit around it. It’s all about deciding what you really want to see.

There are many things that I enjoy and love about Norway, but if I only have to pick one, it is simply nature. The wonder and beauty of nature here in Norway is something you can’t find anywhere else in the world. I experienced the magical moments with the Northern Lights, the abundant wildlife, endless deep forests, and magnificent fjords. It is like a living postcard everywhere around you.

Travelling to Norway on a budget is not easy, but it’s doable. Most importantly, if you can budget your transportation costs, half of your job will be done. When that is done, let nature do the rest with summer, sun and “softis” fun. Also, don’t miss going on a fjord cruise. – Criz, Crizzy Kiss

Getting There

Unless you’re already in a Scandinavian country, the cheapest and easiest way to get to Norway is by plane. If you’re in Europe, keep an eye on the budget carriers – they regularly offer great deals, but don’t forget that you may have to factor in a long bus ride from a budget airport.

Those further afield needn’t despair. Check out sites such as Skyscanner to get an idea of a good price from your hometown. Then, when you see a bargain, you’ll be ready to click that mouse and book.

Cheap Thrills

Norway can certainly be expensive, but the county’s breathtaking nature is absolutely free. Summer is the perfect time to get out and be active in its fjords, mountains and forests! Even major cities boast impressive wilderness on their doorsteps, and there are plenty of well-marked hiking trails for all levels of fitness.

I’ve been to Oslo and Tromso now, and what struck me was just how calming both cities were. Tromso in particular was so magical in January with cosy cafes and restaurants on every corner. The one thing I’d recommend to visitors travelling to Norway is to choose your accommodation wisely. It’s well worth spending a little extra before you go to make sure that breakfast is included. Don’t underestimate just how much you can save by staying in an apartment too – stock up on food in a supermarket and prepare lunches before you head out to explore! – Emily, The Cosy Traveller

Travelling within Norway

Domestic travel can add up, but there are indeed ways to keep the cost down. The easiest way to do this is to minimise long-distance domestic travel. Focus on one or two unique areas, and explore them to your heart’s content. There is so much to see, and you can always come back!

1. Train: Booking travel as far as possible ahead of time makes a huge difference. For example, the seven-hour train journey between Oslo and Bergen is one of the world’s most scenic. It’s more than just transport from A to B: it’s an experience in itself, and there’s even free WiFi so you can make your Instagram friends jealous in real time! Buy a standard one-way ticket on the day of travel, and it could set you back almost US$120 – but book the same journey online three months in advance via the Norwegian State Railways website, and you could score yourself a discounted Minipris ticket for just under US$50. It does pay to plan.
2. Car: Fancy a road trip? Car rental can be reasonable if you split the cost with a few friends, and your transport will come in handy if you’re hoping to experience the great outdoors by camping and hiking. Fuel can be expensive, so choose the most efficient car possible. Roads are exceptionally well maintained, and all hire cars are fitted with winter tires during the colder months. You’ll also be easily able to access accommodation away from the main tourist areas, which can certainly save you a few kroner!
3. Ferry: It’s also worth keeping Norway’s excellent ferry system in mind. If you’re longing to go cruising but are short on time and money, a 15-minute ride on the public ferry from Oslo’s Aker Brygge wharf will get you to the charming islands of the inner Oslo Fjord quickly and cheaply. If you’ve got your heart set on a longer journey, ditch the luxury cruise ship amenities for a comfortable passenger cabin on a mail or cargo boat heading north from Bergen. You’ll still see all the breathtaking sights of the Norwegian coastline – and you’ll get more of an authentic glimpse into life in port towns and cities along the way.

My favorite thing about Norway are the fjords, and particularly the Aurlandsfjord on a sunny day. That’s the fjord where I was lucky enough to grow up, and I love sharing it with visitors! Spend your day out on the fjord, either by going on a Fjord Safari or a Fjord Cruise, and then head up to the Stegastein viewpoint for spectacular views of the fjords.

If you are traveling to Norway on a budget, my number 1 tip is to do your research. There are plenty of posts out there on how to travel Norway or Oslo on a budget. My favorite budget hack is to not splurge on the Airport Express when you land in Oslo, but rather catch a local train for half the price. Other little tricks is to invest in the Oslo Pass, which gives you free entry to plenty of museums and attractions across the city.

If you are traveling across Norway on a budget, opting for the bus instead of the train can also save you some serious cash. There are plenty of coach companies taking you through the beautiful country, allowing you to see loads on your journey. The earlier in advance you book, the cheaper! – Lisa, Fjords and Beaches

You might also want to consider taking a group tour through Norway in order to save money. You’ll benefit from having costs broken down for you at the start of your trip since everything from transportation to accommodation is planned in advance. You’ll still get to enjoy the freedom to wander but you won’t be subject to “going with the flow” mistakes that can result in unexpected additional costs.

Save on accommodation

There’s no getting around it. Accommodation will be one of your most significant expenses, but there are still plenty of ways to save. The particularly adventurous might want to try camping. It’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent on uncultivated public land so long as you’re no closer than 150 metres from an inhabited residence. An official campground with showers, toilets, and electricity will be far more comfortable while still being very easy on the budget. Don’t know your way around a tent? Rent a basic cabin on a campground site for as little as US$32.

If campgrounds aren’t for you, consider a hostel. Prices vary a great deal depending on location, facilities and the time of year, but they’re a great way to meet fellow travellers so long as you don’t mind a bit of noise now and then. Breakfast is sometimes included, and you may have access to kitchen facilities, which can help cut down on food expenses.

While hotel bargains can be found, Airbnb is often the best option for those seeking comfortable accommodation at a reasonable price. You’ll get the chance to live like a local in a genuine Norwegian home, and having access to a kitchen and living room means you’ll be able to cook for yourself and enjoy the occasional quiet night in.

Norway is like a fairytale in this real world. What I really liked about Norway was its pristine nature. I liked how Norwegians have amalgamated their way of living with nature. Their biggest cities like Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim or Tromso don’t feel like they are cities. Cities, towns, villages or simple settlements are bustling with energy in summer & winter alike. This country is still not discovered by a lot of tourists & that definitely makes it one of the best countries to visit before it goes mainstream.

Frankly, Norway & budget travel is like an oxymoron. But there’s still a chance to see Norway on a budget: rather than looking for AirBnb or even hostels, try for Couchsurfing. Norwegians are usually perceived at not-so-friendly people but that’s not true. They will host you, make you feel like you are at home & share wonderful stories with you. This way, you can not only save money on your accommodations but also stay with a local to experience their slice of life. My first & best Couchsurfing experience was in a small settlement near Tromso. – Parampara & Parichay, Awara Diaries

Food and drink in Norway on a budget 

Norway’s high cost of living means food and drink can be somewhat pricey – but a bit of common sense can keep things manageable. For example, try to cook for yourself where you can. Even a box of cereal and a carton of milk can save you spending money on a lot of breakfasts over the course of a week. Besides, it’s great fun to explore the supermarket in a foreign country!

Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors during summer. You’ll see lots of Norwegians having barbecues in the park using small single-use grills. Why not gather some new friends together and try it yourself? When you do eat out, grab a cheap and tasty shawarma or kebab, or try a waffle topped with distinctive brunost, a sweet and savoury brown whey cheese. You’ll love it, or you’ll hate it.

As a budget backpacker I was hesitant to visit Norway, however, with a bit of planning I was able to enjoy 24 hours in Oslo on less than $75. One of the places I loved the most was Ingens Gate which is an alternative area of bars, cafes, and street walls lined with beautiful murals. It is close to the center, so its easy to walk and there is no entrance fee. Another great budget tip is to take advantage of the 24-hour public transport pass to visit the islands in the inner Oslo Fjord for no extra cost. – Chantell, Adoration 4 Adventure

When quenching your thirst, don’t bother with bottled water. Norwegian tap water is not just safe, it’s possibly the most delicious tap water you’ll ever drink. If you’re in the mood for something alcoholic, consider bringing some beer or wine back to your accommodation to save some cash. You can purchase beer at the supermarket, but for anything stronger, you’ll have to go to the Vinmonopolet, an often expensive state-run liquor store.

Norway is a country blessed with beautiful landscapes and the transit infrastructure to painlessly appreciate it. Long days in the summer mean in one day you can see the tops of mountains, the dramatic fjords, and the raw North Sea coastline. Norway is known for its high cost of living as much as for its natural beauty, but you don’t need to bust the budget to visit! Taking advantage of public transit means saving on high car rental and fuel costs. And picking up high-quality ingredients from grocery stores and local markets means saving on high costs eating out; all while enjoying the chance to cook for yourself with those great ingredients! – Britt & Rico, Sea of Atlas

Finally, make sure you use some of the money you’ve saved to treat yourself occasionally! There’s nothing like an utepils (which simply means a beer enjoyed outside) on a bright midsummer’s evening with your new Norwegian friends. Skål!