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Can I go to Norway? Travel restrictions from the UK explained

As of Friday 18 March 2022, all Covid travel rules have been dropped in the UK. This means that any travellers returning to the UK from Norway don't need to take any tests or quarantine on arrival in the UK and no longer need to fill out a passenger locator form . But what are the rules for entering Norway, and which tests are needed? Here’s what you need to know.

What are the entry requirements for Norway?

It's now much easier to travel to and from Norway. There are currently no travel restrictions upon entering Norway – the same rules as prior to the pandemic now apply. As of Tuesday 1 March, travellers arriving into Svalbard no longer have to show evidence of a negative Covid test. 

Wherever you're travelling, it's always best to check the government guidelines for your destination before booking and well ahead of your trip. It's also always wise to get travel insurance with Covid cover . 

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A sustainable trip to Norway

Oslo: the new capital of Scandi cool

The Man in Seat 61

How to travel by train or ferry

London to oslo & norway.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, uk to norway without flying.

The last ferry between the UK & Norway (DFDS from Newcastle to Bergen) was sadly withdrawn in 2008, but there's no need to fly.  It's easy to travel from London to Norway by train, travelling from London to Hamburg by train on day 1, stopping overnight, then Hamburg to Oslo on day 2.  Or take a train from London to Kiel in northern Germany and sail on the luxurious Color Line ferry to Oslo, sailing up Oslo Fjord over breakfast.

Train times, fares & tickets

On this page you'll find a step-by-step guide to planning, booking & making a journey from the UK to Norway by train, with train times, approximate fares, and the best way to buy tickets.

Interactive map :   London to Scandinavia by train & ferry

Cick on a route for times, fares & how to buy tickets.

Useful country information

Option 1, london to oslo by train.

You can travel from London to Oslo by train all the way, with an overnight stop in Hamburg, leaving London on day 1 and arriving Oslo late at night on day 2.  Or take an evening Eurostar and travel to Oslo with overnight stops in Brussels & Copenhagen, with time to travel up to London from other locations across the UK and it breaks up the journey.

London ► Oslo with overnight stop in Hamburg

Leave London St Pancras at 09:01, change Brussels Midi & Cologne Hbf , arriving Hamburg Hbf 19:14.

Leave London St Pancras at 11:04, change Brussels Midi & Cologne Hbf , arriving Hamburg Hbf 21:14.

Day 2, travel from Hamburg to Gothenburg by EuroCity train & Öresund train :

Leave Hamburg Hbf 08:50, arriving Copenhagen 13:34.  Leave Copenhagen at 14:30, arriving Göteborg Central at 18:20.

The EuroCity train from Hamburg to Copenhagen has power sockets at all seats & a refreshment trolley.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .  The Öresund train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg has power sockets & free WiFi, but bring your own food & drink.  It crosses from Denmark to Sweden on the Öresund fixed link , an interesting experience as the train appears to 'fly' across the water just feet above it.

Have an early dinner in Gothenburg.

Day 2, travel from Gothenburg to Oslo, leaving Göteborg Central at 20:10, arriving Oslo Sentral 23:47.

London ► Oslo with overnight stops in Brussels & Copenhagen

Day 3, travel from Copenhagen to Oslo by train.

You can leave Copenhagen at 07:30 by Öresund train arriving Gothenburg Central 11:20. 

The Öresund train crosses from Denmark to Sweden on the Öresund fixed link , an interesting experience as the train appears to 'fly' across the water just feet above it.

Oslo ► London with overnight stop in Hamburg

Day 1, travel from Oslo to Gothenburg, leaving Oslo Sentral at 06:11 Monday-Friday only, arriving Gothenburg Central 09:45.

Day 1, travel from Gothenburg to Hamburg by Öresund train & EuroCity train :

Leave Gothenburg Central at 10:40 arriving Copenhagen 14:29.  Leave Copenhagen at 15:26, arriving Hamburg Hbf 20:04.

You travel from Gothenburg to Copenhagen by Öresund train with power sockets & free WiFi, but bring your own food & drink.  It crosses from Sweden to Denmark on the Öresund fixed link , an interesting experience.  You then travel from Copenhagen to Hamburg by EuroCity train with power sockets at all seats and refreshment trolley.  More about the Copenhagen-Hamburg journey .

Leave Hamburg Hbf at 06:45, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi , arriving London St Pancras at 15:57.

Leave Hamburg Hbf at 08:45, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi , arriving London St Pancras at 17:47.

Leave Hamburg Hbf at 10:45, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi , arriving London St Pancras at 19:47.

Oslo ► London with overnight stops in Copenhagen & Brussels

Day 1, travel from Oslo to Copenhagen by train.

Leave Oslo Sentral at 14:14 every day by Norwegian train, arriving Gothenburg Central at 17:40.

Then leave Gothenburg Central at 18:40 by Öresund train arriving Copenhagen at 22:29.

Or take the earlier 10:14 or (Mon-Fri) 12:14 departure from Oslo for more time in Copenhagen, see the Oslo-Copenhagen timetable .

Day 2, travel from Copenhagen to Brussels by train.

You travel from Copenhagen to Hamburg by EuroCity train with free WiFi when in Denmark, power sockets at all seats & refreshment trolley, then Hamburg to Cologne by superb German ICE4 and Cologne to Brussels by ICE3 , with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

A later 09:26 departure is possible from Copenhagen to Brussels but with no wiggle room for delay, I'd stick with the 07:26.

How much does it cost?

London to Brussels by Eurostar starts at £52 one-way or £78 return in standard class, £97 one-way, £140 return standard premier (1st class).

How to buy tickets

How to buy tickets - advanced.

Step 1, book the Eurostar from London to Brussels at www.eurostar.com .

If you're returning, book this as a round trip, because Eurostar return fares are significantly cheaper than two one-ways.  You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app on your phone. 

Step 2, book from Brussels to Gothenburg as one journey at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  If you're returning, book one-way at a time, it's easier and makes no difference to the price.

You'll be able to select seats on the ICE trains from a seat map, another advantage of booking this way.

To get the overnight stop in Hamburg (or Copenhagen), click Stopovers and enter Hamburg ( or Copenhagen) with a length of stay of (say) 11 hours.  Gothenburg is listed as Göteborg Central .

Adjust departure time & length of stay to get the trains you want either side of the overnight stop.  Some trial & error may be needed!  If you're booking an 'overnight in Hamburg' journey, you'll obviously need to book the departure from Brussels to Hamburg that connects out of the Eurostar you've booked, it's not rocket science, the timetable here may help .

You should see affordable through fares, at least in 2nd class.  If you don't, you'll have to split the booking into stages.

Step 3, book from Gothenburg ( = Goteborg Central ) to Oslo at the Vy website www.vy.no .

Obviously, make sure you book the departure that connects out of the Hamburg/Copenhagen-Gothenburg train you've booked, not rocket science, see the Copenhagen-Oslo timetable .

You can choose to load your ticket into the Vy app, or download it in PDF format which you can either print out or show on your phone.

Have your trip arranged as a package

Railbookers are a train travel specialist who can put together a UK-Norway trip for you as a package, including rail travel, hotels & transfers.  You'll find a range of suggested tours & holidays on their website which can be varied or customised to your requirements.  As you're booking a package, they'll take care of you if anything happens to one part of the itinerary such as a strike or delay.

Byway ( Byway.travel ) is a UK-based eco-holiday firm with a 5-star TrustPilot rating .  If you're nervous about booking train travel yourself, book a one-way or return UK-Norway train trip through Byway as a package, including hotels and starting from any British station you like.  Byway includes package protection, a 100% Covid refund guarantee, free disruption and re-planning and on-demand WhatsApp support while you're away.  They can build a trip to your requirements if you email them or use this contact form .  When you book, please say you heard about them from Seat 61.

How to buy tickets by phone

What's the journey like .

1. London to Brussels by Eurostar

Eurostar trains link London & Brussels in just 2 hours, travelling at up to 300 km/h (186 mph).  There are two bar cars, power sockets at all seats and free WiFi.  Standard Premier and Business Premier fares include a light meal with wine (or breakfast, on departures before 11:00).  There's a 30-minute minimum check-in as all border formalities are carried out before you board the train.  More about Eurostar & check-in procedure .  St Pancras station guide .   Brussels Midi station guide & short cut for changing trains in Brussels .

2. Brussels to Cologne by ICE3

Germany's superb ICEs have a bistro-restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  In 1st class, bistro orders are taken at your seat.  50 minutes after leaving Brussels the ICE calls at Liège, where you can admire the impressive station designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava.  As you approach Cologne Hbf you'll see the twin towers of Cologne Cathedral on the right, next to the station.  More about ICE3 trains .  Brussels Midi station guide .  Cologne Hbf station guide .

An ICE3neo at Brussels Midi .  ICE3neo photos courtesy of OM the rails .

4. Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train

As from June 2023, Hamburg-Copenhagen trains are operated by former German Railways intercity cars like this, now shown in the timetable as EC for EuroCity .  This is only temporary, as brand-new trains being built for DSB will be delivered in 2024.  These ex-DB intercity cars have power sockets at all seats (although no WiFi).  There's no catering car, so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .

On 17 June 2023, the first Copenhagen to Hamburg train to use the 'new' German intercity cars is boarding at Copenhagen.  Photo courtesy of Peter Kincey .

2nd class seats in are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches.

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo .  Larger photo .

5. Copenhagen to Oslo by train

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Option 2, London to Oslo via DFDS ferry

In this option, you travel by train from London to Denmark, then use the luxurious DFDS overnight cruise ferry between Copenhagen & Oslo.  It's faster than the previous option using train all the way, and the cruise into Oslo Fjord is a bonus.

London ► Oslo

You can leave London St Pancras at 09:01 by Eurostar to Brussels Midi , ICE3 train to Cologne , & ICE to Hamburg Hbf arriving 19:14.

Or leave London St Pancras at 11:04 by Eurostar to Brussels Midi , ICE3 train to Cologne , & ICE to Hamburg Hbf arriving 21:14.

For more about the London to Hamburg journey, see the London-Hamburg timetable on the London to Germany page .  A later departure at 13:01 is theoretically possible, but with no wiggle room in case of delay. 

All passengers travel in comfortable private cabins with en suite toilet & shower and satellite TV.  To travel in luxury, treat yourself to DFDS's famous Commodore Class, some suites with private balconies with sea view..  The ship has bars & restaurants for breakfast on board, you can pre-book breakfast with your ticket.  There's also a sauna.  The ships on this route are the Crown Seaways or Pearl Seaways .

Make sure you're on deck in the morning when the ferry sails up the scenic Oslo Fjord, a stunning way to arrive in Norway.  You'll see coast on either side of the ship from about 06:30 and she enters the narrow part of the fjord by about 07:00.

Oslo ► London

All passengers travel in comfortable private cabins with en suite toilet & shower.  To travel in luxury, treat yourself to one of DFDS's famous Commodore Class cabins, some with private balconies with sea view.  The ship has bars & restaurants for dinner & breakfast on board, you can pre-book dinner & breakfast with your ticket. 

For example, the first departure leaves Hamburg Hbf at 06:45, change at Cologne Hbf & Brussels Midi to arrive London St Pancras at 16:57.

Step 1, buy train tickets from London to Hamburg (& back, if returning), then Hamburg to Copenhagen (& back, if returning) at www.raileurope.com , see the tips below.

Tips for booking London-Hamburg-Denmark at www.raileurope.com :

Using www.raileurope.com means you can book all your train tickets together in one place, in plain English, international credit cards accepted, in €, £ or $.  There's a small booking fee.

First book your ticket from London to Hamburg.  Book this as a round trip if you're returning, because Eurostar return fares are significantly cheaper than two one-ways.  Add this to your basket.

Then book your train from Hamburg to Copenhagen one-way for the following day, add to basket, then (if returning) book from Copenhagen to Hamburg one-way, add this to your basket and check out.

Fares are dynamic like air fares, so book early for the cheapest prices.  You print your own tickets, or you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app, and show the DB ticket on your laptop or phone.

When does booking open?

Booking for Eurostar opens up to 6 months ahead, sometimes up to 11 months.  Onward trains from Brussels to Germany & Denmark open up to 6 months ahead, but significantly less than this when the mid-December timetable change intervenes.  I recommend waiting until all your trains are open for booking before committing to a non-refundable Eurostar ticket.  More about when booking opens .

Is it a through ticket?

No, but www.raileurope.com will seamlessly sell you a Eurostar ticket from London to Brussels plus an onward German Railways ticket from Brussels to Hamburg, then it'll sell you a ticket from Hamburg to Copenhagen for the following day.

Seat reservations

About those tight 20-minute connections at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an onward ICE , sometimes less than this, is usually a recognised connection which lots of people make.  It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms .

Even though the system sells you separate tickets either side of Brussels, you are protected by the Railteam Promise/HOTNAT so if there's a delay and you miss the connection you will be allowed to travel on later onwards trains at no extra charge.

Just make sure that if you did miss that 20 minute connection in Brussels, there are later trains that would still get you to Hamburg by close of play that day.

Connecting tickets from other UK towns & cities:   See the advice on special add-on tickets here .

Another way to buy tickets

This is more work as it involves three websites, but it can be slightly cheaper for two reasons:  First, you don't pay any booking fee.  Second, you can use the Stopovers feature at int.bahn.de to book a Brussels to Copenhagen through ticket with an overnight stop in Hamburg programmed in.  This is cheaper than buying separate Brussels to Hamburg & Hamburg to Copenhagen tickets from Raileurope.  Another advantage of booking direct with int.bahn.de is that you can select your seat from a seat map on ICE trains between Brussels, Cologne & Hamburg.

Obviously, do a dry run on each site first to check availability & prices.  I'd also check that your outward Eurostar and ICE are indeed a recognised connection by checking that they appear together when you run a London to Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de - read the paragraph in the previous section about the 20-minute connection in Brussels.

Step 1, book the Eurostar from London to Brussels (& back, if returning) at www.eurostar.com.

Eurostar return fares are significantly less than two one-ways, so if you're coming back, make sure you book this as a round trip.   You print your own ticket or can load it into the Eurostar app on your phone.  After booking you can use the Eurostar Manage Booking system to select an exact seat on Eurostar .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Copenhagen at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

To get the overnight stop in Hamburg, click Stopovers , enter Hamburg Hbf and a length of stay of (say) 11-13 hours.  You'll need to fiddle with the departure time and length of stay to get the trains you want either side of Hamburg, it takes a bit of trial & error.

This will get you a through ticket from Brussels to Copenhagen with an overnight stop in Hamburg included.  If you have problems, by all means just book Brussels-Hamburg and Hamburg-Copenhagen separately.

If you're returning, now book Copenhagen to Brussels with an overnight stop in Hamburg using the same stopover method.

You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.

To buy tickets by phone, click here for a list of agencies who sell European train tickets.

What's the journey like?

4. Hamburg to Copenhagen by train

From June 2023, Hamburg-Copenhagen trains are operated by former German Railways intercity cars like this, now shown in the timetable as EC for EuroCity .  This is only temporary, as brand-new trains being built for DSB will be delivered in 2024.  These ex-DB intercity cars have power sockets at all seats (although no WiFi).  There's no catering car, so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .

Crossing the Little Belt ( Lillebælt in Danish) from Jutland (mainland Denmark) to Funen, the island on which Odense is located.

5. Copenhagen to Oslo overnight by DFDS cruise ferry

Option 3, London to Oslo via Kiel

OK, so this takes a bit longer, but with comfortable daytime trains, a night in a hotel in Kiel or Hamburg then a mini-cruise on a luxurious Color line cruise ferry.  In many ways the most luxurious way to Norway!

See the London to Hamburg timetable on the Germany page .  Regional trains run from Hamburg Hbf to Kiel Hbf every hour in just 1h16.  In Kiel, the Color Line ferry terminal is just a 5-6 minute walk from Kiel Hbf.

Oslo ► London

Step 1, buy train tickets from London to Hamburg & Hamburg to Copenhagen at www.raileurope.com , see the tips below .

Tips for booking London-Hamburg-Copenhagen at www.raileurope.com :

Anyone from any country can use www.raileurope.com , it allows you to book all your train tickets together in one place, in plain English, international credit cards accepted and fares shown in multiple currencies. There's a small booking fee.

Fares are dynamic like air fares, so book early for the cheapest prices and avoid busy days such as Fridays or Sunday afternoons.

It can help to specify Brussels as a via station if you want to see journeys with an easy same-station change in Brussels, rather than also seeing journeys via Paris.  At www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Brussels (any station).

You print your own ticket, or you can load the Eurostar ticket into the Eurostar app, and show the DB ticket on your laptop or phone.

Booking for Eurostar and onward trains to Kiel opens up to 6 months ahead, but significantly less when the mid-December timetable change intervenes.  Journeys involving a Brussels-Cologne Eurostar (formerly Thalys) only open 4 months ahead.  More about when booking opens .

No, as there are no through tickets between the UK & Germany any more, DB's Sparpreis London fares were discontinued in March 2020 .  But www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com will seamlessly sell you a Eurostar ticket from London to Brussels plus onward tickets from Brussels to Kiel.

One-way or round trip?

With Eurostar , a return ticket costs significantly less than two one-ways.  With ICE & Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , a return is normally two one-ways.  So for a round trip you should book London to Kiel & back as a return journey, or for more control over the booking, book London-Brussels as a return journey to benefit from the round trip discount, add to basket, then book Brussels to Kiel one way, add to basket, then Kiel to Brussels one-way, add to basket & check out.

About the 20-minute connections (sometimes less) between Eurostar & ICEs at Brussels Midi

The slick 20-minute connection in Brussels between Eurostar and an onward ICE, sometimes less than this, is usually a recognised connection which lots of people make.  It's not usually a problem, especially if you use the Brussels Midi short cut between platforms .

The system is programmed to know which connections are recognised/acceptable and which are too tight - if you intend booking your Eurostar and ICE tickets separately (which I often do to check prices for Eurostar and onwards trains separately, and to retain more control over the booking) it's wise to run a London-Cologne enquiry first just to check that the system does indeed recognise that specific Eurostar as connecting with that specific onward ICE, on that specific date.

This is more work, but there's no booking fee.  Obviously, do a dry run on each site first to check availability & prices.  Also check that your outward Eurostar and ICE are indeed a recognised connection by checking that they appear together when you run a London to Cologne enquiry at int.bahn.de , as explained in the paragraph about the 20-minute connections in Brussels in the previous section.

Step 1, book the Eurostar from London to Brussels (and back, if returning) at www.eurostar.com and print your own ticket, or load it into the Eurostar app to show on your phone.  Eurostar return fares are significantly less than two one-ways, so if you're coming back, make sure you book this as a round trip.  After booking you can use the Eurostar Manage Booking system to select an exact seat on Eurostar .

Step 2, book from Brussels to Kiel at the German Railways site int.bahn.de .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  An advantage of booking direct with int.bahn.de is that you can select an exact seat on ICE & IC trains from a seating plan.  A round trip is ticketed as two one-ways, so feel free to book one way at a time if it's easier.

An ICE3neo at Brussels Midi .  ICE3neo photos courtesy of OM the rails

Option 4, London to Norway via Hirtshals

You can of course travel by train to Oslo, then take a train from Oslo to Bergen (a very scenic route), or from Oslo to Kristiansand & Stavanger.  Click here for advice on booking onward trains within Norway .

But as you can see on the route map above , the most direct route is to head up to Hirtshals in northern Denmark and take a Color Line or Fjord Line ferry direct to Kristiansand, Stavanger or Bergen, by-passing Copenhagen, Sweden & Oslo.

London ► Kristiansand, Stavanger & Bergen

For example, leave London St Pancras 11:04 by Eurostar to Brussels Midi , ICE3 train to Cologne , EuroCity to Hamburg Hbf arriving 21:14.

Bergen, Stavanger & Kristiansand ► London

Fares & how to buy tickets, train travel in norway, oslo to bergen, stavanger, trondheim, bodo.

Norway's train services have been outsourced route by route to three private operators:

www.vy.no (rebranded from NSB Norwegian State Railways in 2019), routes include Oslo-Bergen, Oslo-Gothenburg.

www.sj.no (a Norwegian subsidiary of Swedish Railways), routes include Oslo-Trondheim-Bodo.

How to buy Norwegian train tickets

Option 1, buy at entur.no, option 2, buy at omio.com, option 3, at vy.no, the scenic flåm railway, sleeper trains from oslo to bergen, stavanger, trondheim.

You can't beat a daytime journey on the scenic Oslo to Bergen line, but on the way back you can save time by travelling on the sleeper.  Unlike most other European sleeper trains where you can book individual berths in shared compartments, in Norway you pay a fixed supplement and get a whole 2-berth compartment to yourself, whether there are two of you or only one.  When you board, you must first check in at the cafe car to have your ticket checked and receive the plastic card-key to your sleeper compartment.

Hurtigruten coastal ferries

Bergen to the arctic circle:  www.hurtigruten.com & www.havilavoyages.com.

Bergen - Trondheim - Bodo - Tromso - Kirkenes

Every day, an express coastal steamer service sails from Bergen on an all-points trip north to Kirkenes in the Arctic Circle close to the Russian border, a 6-night one-way voyage or a 11 or 12-night round trip.  It's an essential transport service for the communities along the route which also offers cruises for visitors wanting an unrivalled boat ride along the beautiful Norwegian Fjords up to the land of the Midnight Sun. 

Until 2021, all sailings were operated by Hurtigruten ( www.hurtigruten.com - the word hurtigruten simply means express route .  However, the Norwegian government has split the route into 3 contracts, two won by Hurtigruten and one by Havila Kystruten ( www.havilavoyages.com ).  From December 2021, 2 out of 3 sailings will be operated by Hurtigruten  and one by Havila Kystruten.

To check sailing times & buy tickets see www.hurtigruten.com and www.havilavoyages.com .  You'll need to check both, as each website only shows that company's sailings.  For more about their service and history, see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurtigruten .

Norway in a Nutshell tour

Oslo - bergen - flam - oslo over 5 days.

The popular 'Norway in a Nutshell' circular tour takes you from Oslo to Bergen to Flam and back to Oslo over 5 days.  Train-based tour specialist Railbookers can sort this for you with train reservations & hotels.

European Rail Timetable & map

Rail Map Europe is the map I recommend, covering all of Europe from Portugal in the west to Moscow & Istanbul in the east, Finland in the north to Sicily & Athens in the south.  Scenic routes & high-speed lines are highlighted.  See an extract from the map .  Buy online at www.europeanrailtimetable.eu (shipping worldwide) or at www.amazon.co.uk (UK addresses).

G uidebooks

Click the images to buy at amazon.co.uk, hotels in oslo, bergen & norway, backpacker hostels: www.hostelworld.com.

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in Paris and most other European cities at rock-bottom prices.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

You should take out travel insurance with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover from a reliable insurer.  It should cover trip cancellation and loss of cash & belongings up to a reasonable limit.  These days, check you're covered for covid-19-related issues, and use an insurer whose cover isn't invalidated by well-meant but excessive Foreign Office travel advice against non-essential travel. An annual policy is usually cheapest even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Don't expect travel insurance to bail you out of every missed connection, see the advice on missed connections here .  Here are some suggested insurers, I get a little commission if you buy through these links, feedback always welcome.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a European mobile data package and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  There's no need to buy a physical SIM card!  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month as I write this.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.  And you can get a Curve card for free.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than getting a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When travelling you may use free public WiFi which is often insecure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using this link you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I also get some commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, hotel bookings and Interrail or Eurail passes are often now held on your mobile phone.  You daren't let it run out of power, and you can't always rely on the phone's internal battery or on being near a power outlet.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or buy from Amazon.com .

Touring cities?  Use hill walking shoes!

One of the best things I've done is swap my normal shoes for hill-walking shoes, in my case from Scarpa.  They're intended for hiking across the Pennines not wandering around Florence, but the support and cushioning for hiking works equally well when you're on your feet all day exploring foreign cities.  My feet used to give out first and limit my day, now the rest of me gives up before they do!

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How to get to Norway from the UK on a Roadtrip

• Post author By Will Cecil
• Post date November 13, 2018
• No Comments on How to get to Norway from the UK on a Roadtrip

You’ve picked Norway, great choice!

I still can’t get over our 3 week trip to the country, so much so that for the first time in our life we may have a somewhat detailed travel plan for our extended trip next year.

When we departed our trip this year we took the first route Google gave us. Now while I am a fan of Google maps it sadly completely overlooked the most efficient way to get to Norway.

We drove to Norway via Copenhagen over the bridge to Malmo and then up the coast, past Gothenburg   and into Norway where we then swung by Oslo and headed west.

At the time we had no idea that this was totally unnecessary.

As we headed west towards Bergen/Stavanger to the best hiking regions we drove around 250 more miles than we would have done if we’d taken the ferry from Hirtshals to either Kristiansund, Larvik, Stavanger. London to trolltunga via ferry is 1200 miles, via road only is 1450.

On top of that is the cost of the bridges in Denmark.

On this route you’ll pass over two, the first is around a £45 fee and the second was £103. In total the best part of £150. (Assuming you’re in a motorhome/van conversion)

Best way to get to Norway from the UK

The ferry is £134 one way…. it’s as simple as this, this is the best route to take.

So in total it costs more, takes longer and puts more miles on your engine to travel the entire way via road.

I would highly recommend to take the ferry for anyone planning a road trip to Norway, while we loved our camp spots on the west coast of Sweden it would have been nice to not have to spend an additional 5 hours and £100 or so pounds in fuel to get there, it’s already far enough!

The ferry to Kristiansund is the fastest at 3hrs 15mins and will put you within a few hours of some of Norways most famous hikes. e.g. Trolltunga, Priekostolen, Keragsboten.

We travelled to Larvik 3hrs 45min which is a lovely little town and has a great camp spot a few miles from the ferry terminal.

The ferry to Stavanger puts you in the heart of a vibrant Norwegian city.

If you have any questions let us know in the comments!

By Will Cecil

I am an avid outdoors-man and adventure addict. I love travelling, I'm currently confined to being a weekend warrior and along with Emily seek breathtaking vistas and new experiences.

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9 things to know before going to Norway in 2024

Mar 18, 2024 • 6 min read

These insider tips will help you plan the Norway trip of a lifetime Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Norway is a wonderful country to experience as a first-time visitor – an efficient and extensive transport network, incredible attractions, breathtaking scenery and relaxed locals all add up to the trip of a lifetime.

But there are still some things that are good to know in advance. For example, Norway is one of the most expensive countries on the planet, so money-saving tips will make all the difference to your travel budget.

Another major influence on your trip will be  the flow of the seasons ; the differences can be extreme and will have a major impact on what you plan to do while you're there, both in terms of climate and strange Arctic phenomena such as the midnight sun and the northern lights .

Here are nine things you need to know to ensure a wonderful trip to Norway.

1. Outdoor activities are seasonal so plan carefully

Seasons are everything in Norway. Each long summer day might feel like it lasts forever, but the window for many activities rarely lasts longer than the June-to-August (sometimes just July-to-August) periods. This especially  applies to hiking – Norway’s intensely beautiful Besseggen Ridge Trail, in Jotunheimen National Park , can draw 30,000 hikers in just two months.

Some trails remain open beyond summer, but you run a serious risk of extreme weather rolling in with very little warning while you’re out there. Cycling just about anywhere, and white-water rafting on the Sjøa River, are also strictly summer-only.

Winter sports like skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding have a similarly narrow opening, although dog sledders can sometimes take a summer ride on a sled with wheels. It all means that planning is essential, and local tourist offices are an excellent resource for knowing what’s possible and when.

2. Eat well on a budget

Prices for a meal in Norway can be eye-wateringly high: in a decent restaurant, a main course for Nkr500 is somewhere close to the norm. Thankfully, the best Norwegian cooking is almost always worth it, but keep these sorts of prices for a special occasion, or even just dinner. 

Most Norwegian hotel buffet breakfasts are extraordinarily good, overflowing in generous proportions, and – best of all – usually included in your room rate. Take full advantage and you may well not need to eat again until the evening. If, on the other hand, you’re hungry again by lunchtime, many cafes have cheaper lunch specials and lighter meals, or you could plan for a picnic with food sourced from a supermarket and its delicatessen.

Snacking at fish markets, or with one of the hot dogs sold at every Norwegian petrol or gas station, could also fill you up without sending a torpedo through your daily budget. Saving money on other meals will make that dinner bill a little less painful.

3. Buy train and bus tickets online

Norway's transport network is efficient and extensive. If you’re traveling by rail, you’re in for a treat with some of northern Europe’s most scenic rail journeys . But whatever you do, don’t pay full fare: Norwegians rarely do. On almost every route, Norwegian state railways  set aside a limited number of discounted (minipris)  tickets. How much you pay has everything to do with how early you book, so start planning as soon as you have firm dates for your trip, even if it’s months in advance. Of all the bus services on offer across the country, Lavprisekspressen is known for its rock-bottom fares along major routes – book online and book early.

4. Join a hotel loyalty scheme

The overwhelming majority of Norwegian hotels belong to a hotel chain, or at least to some more loosely affiliated groupings. Joining one of their loyalty programs is always free, so choose as many as you like. Better still, join one and then find hotels along your route that belong to your program. The best such programs have a simple offer: the more nights you stay – just how many varies from one chain or program to the next – the more free nights you get as a reward for your loyalty.

Another option that is becoming increasingly common, especially in cities, is budget hotels. Before it was just the hostels (vandrerhjem) that promised reasonable prices, but increasingly, slick hotel-hostel hybrids like Citybox  and  Smarthotels  provide respite from the sky-high room rates.

5. Bring a sleeping mask in summer

Let’s face it, Norway’s midnight sun (which can mean 24 hours of daylight for months on end) and polar night (the same, but with endless darkness) can be confusing or frustrating. At first, it can be exciting to walk alongside a beautiful fjord in brilliant 3am sunshine and there is considerable novelty to eating lunch under a night-dark sky. But how do you sleep in summer? Many hotels, particularly in Norway’s north, have heavy-duty, light-blocking curtains, but bring a sleeping mask in summer to ensure you get some shut-eye.

6. Norwegians are tolerant, but always be considerate

Norwegians are pretty relaxed about most things, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more tolerant nation of people. In cities in particular, the guiding principle seems to be to have a good time as long as you’re not hurting anyone. In rural areas, it’s slightly more complicated, but only slightly. There are always exceptions, but Norwegians in small towns and remote areas tend to be more socially conservative. Loud and loutish behavior is rarely welcome in such places, and if you have an all-night party in a small village, you’ll have misread your surroundings and taken Norwegians’ famous tolerance too far.

7. Driving will take longer than you expect

Many of Norway’s roads are engineering marvels, taking you places no road should go. Norway has the longest tunnels in the world and curvaceous bridges that render water obsolete as an obstacle, and car ferries take care of the rest. So rare are potholes, that people take photos of them. Just don’t expect to go very fast.

Part of that has to do with the terrain. It’s also because, apart from a short distance on either side of major cities, freeways are as rare as potholes. Throughout much of the country, especially in summer, you’ll share the road with trucks and campers with only semi-regular overtaking lanes to ease the frustration. Count on slowing down, enjoying the view, and averaging no more than 60km/h (37mph) on most journeys, longer if you stop along the way.

8. Take basic safety precautions

Norway is an extremely safe place in which to travel, possibly even one of the safest in Europe. Like any large modern city, pickpockets are always a possibility in popular tourist areas, especially Oslo and around the Torget area of Bergen . Here and elsewhere, keep your valuables hidden, and never leave them visible in an unattended car. As long as you’re sensible in ways such as these, you and your personal belongings may well be safer in Norway than they are back home.

9. Watch the weather

Watching the nightly weather bulletin with rapt attention isn’t some quirky little pastime in Norway: it could just save your life. Even in summer, wild weather can roll in without warning, which is fine if you’re curled up next to a roaring fire, less so if you’re hiking in Hardangervidda or Jotunheimen, or snowmobiling in Svalbard .

Whenever you’re heading out into any Norwegian wilderness, wise precautions include always carrying warm wet-weather gear, as well as emergency water and food. And always let someone (either your hotel or the local tourist office) know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

This article was first published Jul 25, 2023 and updated Mar 18, 2024.

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Taking the ferry from the UK to Norway

We’re all trying to cut our carbon footprint and travel in a more environmentally friendly way. And going by ferry or train is certainly one of the greenest options if you want to get from the UK to the European mainland.

Historically it was a good way to travel from England to Scandinavia too. In the past, ferry routes have connected Newcastle to Kristiansand, Stavanger, Bergen, Haugesund and Oslo in Norway , as well as to Gothenburg in Sweden.

Today, sadly, there’s no direct car ferry from the UK to Norway. However, plans to reinstate the Newcastle to Bergen ferry route in 2026 are being greeted with enthusiasm by environmentalists and fans of ferry travel alike.

The Bergen Cruise Line ferry

Newcastle and Bergen in Norway were linked by a ferry route for more than 140 years, until 2008 when cheap air travel led to its demise. 

In 2026, the Bergen Cruise Line plans to resurrect this popular route with 3 services a week in high season (2 weekly in low season) running between Newcastle, Stavanger and Bergen.

The route will be served by a brand new low-emission ferry which runs on liquified natural gas and fuel cells. 

Huge electricity storage batteries will power the boat when it is “harbour mode”, so that it can sail into the Norwegian fjords emission-free. 

The ferry will be 210 x 31 metres and will carry up to 2380 passengers with a large car deck and cargo space. 

It’s expected to cost in the region of 200 million USD to build, with restaurants, bars, a casino, theatre, night club, gym, shops and conference centre on-board.

The ferry is currently in the planning and design stage, with construction expected to start later in 2023. And it’s hoped to be up and running in 2026 – a welcome new green travel route from the UK to Norway.

Alternatives to the direct UK–Norway ferry

Until the new passenger ferry to Norway from the UK is in service, there are a few ways you can get to Norway overland and sea via other European countries. 

None of the routes is quick or straightforward, so you’ll need to make the journey part of your holiday.

Via Amsterdam

• First take the DFDS overnight car ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam, which leaves Newcastle daily at 5pm and arrives in Amsterdam at 9.45am the following morning. The journey takes just under 17 hours, and there’s a choice of accommodation available from inside bunk-bed cabins to smart en-suite double cabins with a sea view. 
• From Ijmuiden (the port for Amsterdam), it’s a drive of three and a half hours along the A9 and the A7 to Emden in Germany.
• From Emden, the M/S Romantika ferry leaves at 5pm, arriving in Kristiansand in southern Norway at 10.45am the following morning. There are four ferries a week in high season, two to three in low season and none in January.
• From Kristiansand, it’s about an eight hour drive north to Bergen. You can either take the coastal route via Stavanger, which involves two further short ferry trips, or the inland route via Voss. A third alternative is to drive from Kristiansand to Stavanger (three and a half hours), then take a ferry from there to Bergen . The ferry leaves Stavanger daily at 1.30pm, arriving in Bergen at 7pm.

Via Keil in Germany

• Get the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry (see above) from where it’s a six-hour drive to Keil in Germany. Or, from London, it’s a twelve-and-a-half-hour drive to Kiel in Germany via the Channel Tunnel, across France, Belgium and Holland.
• From Keil, there’s a daily Colour Line ferry to Oslo, which takes 20 hours. The best way to get from Oslo to Bergen is by train: read our guide for details .

Via Hirtshals in Denmark

• Getting to Hirtshals in Denmark from the UK is not straightforward. You can either get the DFDS overnight car ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam (see above), from where it’s an eleven-hour drive through Holland and via Hambourg in Germany. Or if you’re coming from London, it’s a 17-hour drive through the Channel Tunnel via France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.
• From Hirtshals, there are several routes to Norway on Fjordline and Colour Line ferries. The quickest is on the year-round fast cat to Kristiansand, which runs up to four times day in high season and takes two and a half hours.
• To Bergen and Stavanger, ferries leave Hirtshals at 8pm, arriving in Stavanger at 6.30am and Bergen at 12.30pm the following day. To Larvik, ferries leave Hirtshals twice daily and take 3 hours 45 minutes.

Ferries from other parts of Scandinavia to Norway 

Of course, getting to Norway is easier from other Scandinavian countries than it is from the UK. And there are several useful routes that you can use as part of a wider trip round Scandinavia.

What about ferries to other Scandinavian countries from the UK?

Since the demise of DFDS’ Harwich to Esbjerg ferry in 2014, there are no ferries routes from the UK to anywhere in Scandinavia. 

Taking a private tour

Of course if money is no object, there are ways of getting to Norway by sea.

This  luxury yacht trip cruises from Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland to Bergen in Norway via the Orkneys and the Shetland Islands. It takes two weeks so you’ll need plenty of time and deep pockets!

Getting there by plane

As you can see getting to Norway by ferry is not a quick option, so you may be tempted to fly. And there’s no shortage of airlines and routes if you do decide to take the plane.

Ryanair flies from Stansted to Oslo, Norwegian flies from Gatwick to Oslo, while British Airways and SAS fly from Heathrow to Oslo. Norwegian also flies from Gatwick to Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim.

SAS and Norwegian fly from Manchester to Oslo, while Ryanair flies from Manchester to Oslo Torp. 

Norwegian also flies from Edinburgh to Oslo, while Loganair flies from Aberdeen to Oslo and Newcastle to Stavanger.

The pros and cons of flying vs taking the ferry

Clearly flying is quicker, with a journey time of around two hours from London to Oslo compared to several days driving and taking the ferry.

And flying is almost always cheaper too, with return fares from London to Oslo starting from around £50 if you book ahead.

Flying from a regional airport and booking last-minute will usually bump up the cost, but it’s still likely to be cheaper than the ferry, especially when you’ve added on the cost of a car and cabin.

However, travelling by ferry and car is definitely the greener option, and a more interesting way to get to your destination. And once the new Bergen Line ferry is running, it will be greener still.

So, if you’re short of time we recommend flying. But if you’re in hurry and want to see some other countries on the way and make the journey part of your adventure, we suggest taking the ferry.

See also : Hurtigruten cruises in Norway: all you need to know Eco-friendly places to stay in Norway Norway’s best national parks

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Unfortunately the ferry from Emsden to Kristiansand went bust last year. We used it last year and it certainly cut out a huge amount of time and driving. We’d booked again for this year just before it declared bankruptcy.

Thank you for this really useful post 🙂

I was so happy to find the Emden-Kristiansand alternative. I’m so terribly sorry to discover that the company just got bankrupt! As I plan a travel in the footsteps of Steinlen (#anneecentenaireSteinlen), who traveled by boat from Tilbury (UK) to Kristiansand (NOR) in 1901, this would have been perfect! Now we might miss the UK-part of the journey and it’s a pity! 😬😢

Greetings, Karianne

#surlespasdeSteinlen

Hi Karianne! Thanks so much for the comment. Yeah that’s super sad isn’t it… we hope you still enjoy your travels even without the UK-Norway section!

Travel to Norway

Terje Rakke/Nordic Life - Visitnorway.com

How to travel to Norway

You will find a wide selection of travel options to Norway. Norway shares land borders with Sweden, Finland and Russia.

Crossing borders are usually hassle-free, but all travellers - other than citizens from Sweden, Denmark , Iceland and Finland - require a passport to enter Norway.

Flights to Norway

Norway is well served by domestic airlines with about 50 airports and airfields.

The biggest airport is Oslo Airport, Gardermoen, 45km (28 miles) northeast of Oslo. Here most of the international traffic arrives and is served by several international airlines and regional carriers like SAS, British Airways, Norwegian Air, Finnair and Widerøe. The airport has flights from around 140 destinations abroad. Often you have to change planes to reach your final destination in Norway.

Other international airports in Norway are located close to  Bergen , Kristiansand, Moss, Sandefjord, Stavanger, Tromsø, and Trondheim.

From Oslo Airport, it is easy to reach Oslo city centre in 20 minutes by Flytoget Airport Express Train. Express buses and local trains are also available.

International flights to Norway

There are direct flights to Norway from the East and West of the continental USA and several European destinations. If you travel from Australia or New Zealand, you'll need to connect via an airport in Asia, the Middle East, or Europe.

See more: Airports in Norway 

Travel by train

Numerous rail services have connections to other places in the Nordic countries and the rest of Europe. There are frequent connections to Oslo from Copenhagen, Stockholm and Götenborg . It is also possible to get to northern Norway from Stockholm , with Trondheim and Narvik as the main destinations.

NSB, the Norwegian Railways, serve the national trains.

Most rail journeys from Europe are overnight, and all have sleeping compartments. A variety of discount passes is available for train travel in Europe and Norway.

Travel by boat

It is possible to take a ferry between Norway and Denmark, Sweden, Germany and the UK. Most ferry operators offer package deals that include both cars and passengers.

Cruises to Norway

There are several cruise lines in Norway and many popular cruise destinations. Many are sailing to the Norwegian Fjords and the seaside city of Bergen, but cities such as Tromsø, Hammerfest, Trondheim, and Ålesund are on many itineraries.

Travel by car

Most visitors arrive in Norway by car from Sweden, but it is also possible from Finland and Russia.

The major road going to Norway is European route E6. It runs from Sweden, and you are crossing the border at Svinesund in southeast Norway.

From Finland, you take E8, which runs through Turku , Vaasa and Oulu before you cross the border at Kilpisjärvi.

Passport control checks are at the Norwegian-Russian land border crossing between Borisoglebsky and Storskog.

How to get to Norway

Airports in Norway

Trains to Norway

Ferries to Norway from Denmark

Buses to Norway

Weather in Norway

Visa to Norway

Getting Around in Norway

What to Pack

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Getting to Norway is an integral part of the journey to experiencing this nation’s fjords, cities, and natural landscapes. Here’s our guide on how to get to Norway, with tips from our local travel experts.

Where to fly into Norway?

How to get to norway from the us, how to get to norway from the uk, how to get to norway from canada, how to get to norway from europe, how to get to norway from australia, how to get to norway from new zealand, do you need a visa.

Flying is the most common and efficient way to get to Norway, especially if you're travelling from a long distance or internationally. There are regular direct flights to major cities in Norway such as Oslo , Bergen , and Stavanger from various European destinations and some cities in the United States.

If you're interested in exploring other parts of Scandinavia or Europe along the way, you might like to travel with a vehicle.

How to get to Norway and enjoy your trip to Bergen © Shutterstock

When you're planning your trip to Norway, you'll have a few international airports to choose from. The main ones are Oslo Airport (OSL), Bergen Airport (BGO), and Stavanger Airport (SVG). Oslo Airport is the biggest and busiest, with tons of international flights coming in from all over the world. Some major airlines that fly to Norway are:

• Norwegian Air
• Scandinavian Airlines
• British Airways
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

The cheapest time to fly to Norway typically falls during the off-peak season, which is generally during the winter months, particularly from November to March. For a more in-depth look, see our guide to the best time to go to Norway .

If you're flying from the US to Norway, you'll usually need to catch a connecting flight, with Oslo Airport being the most common destination. Major airlines like Norwegian Air, SAS, and United Airlines have both direct and indirect flights to Oslo from various US cities. The flight time varies depending on the route and any layovers. 

• A direct flight from New York to Oslo takes about  8-9 hours , a flight from Los Angeles will take around  10-11 hours .
• You can expect to pay around $500 to $800  for a round-trip ticket.

Polar bear, ice floe, Svalbard, Norway © Shutterstock

You’ll find there are plenty of direct flights available when flying to Norway from the UK. You can hop on a plane with Norwegian Air, British Airways, or Ryanair from major airports like London Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester, and Edinburgh. These flights will take you to cities like Oslo, Bergen, and more. 

• A direct flight from London to Oslo is just about  2 hours.
• Typically you’ll pay between  £50  and £150 for a one-way ticket, depending on the airline and when you book.

Driving to Norway from the UK

If you're up for a road trip adventure , driving from the UK to Norway is fun way to travel. Start by taking the Eurotunnel or a ferry crossing to mainland Europe. From there, you can drive through Denmark and enter Norway via the Svinesund Bridge, or take a ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand. 

The whole journey from London to Oslo is around 1,200 miles (1,930 km) and can take about 24-30 hours, including ferry crossings and rest stops.

Travel to Norway from the UK by train

While there are no direct trains from the UK or Ireland to Norway, you can still make the journey by rail if you prefer to avoid flying . First, take the Eurostar from London to Brussels or Paris. 

From there, connect to high-speed trains heading to cities like Copenhagen or Stockholm . Once you reach one of these cities, you can continue your trip to Norway by ferry. Keep in mind, though, that this option is likely to cost more than flying.

Besseggen Ridge in Norway © Shutterstock

If you're travelling from Canada, getting to Norway usually involves a connecting flight through major European hubs like London, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt. Airlines such as Air Canada, Lufthansa, and KLM offer convenient routes to Oslo and other Norwegian cities. 

• A typical flight from Toronto to Oslo takes about  10-12 hours with layovers and a flight from Vancouver will take around  12-13 hours . 
• You can expect costs around  CAD 800-1200 for a round-trip ticket, depending on the season and airline.

If you live in Europe, or are taking a larger, multi-country trip , you’ll find you can easily access Norway.

• From West Europe: Countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands have direct flights to Norway, as well as efficient train and ferry connections.
• From East Europe: If you’re coming from an Eastern European country, you may find direct flights to Norway or opt for train journeys via Sweden or Finland.
• From Southern Europe : Spain, Italy, and Greece have indirect flights to Norway, with layovers in major European cities.

Midnight sun on the Longyearbyen waterfront in Svalbard in the Norwegian arctic © Shutterstock

For travellers from Australia, reaching Norway usually means catching a connecting flight through major European hubs like London , Frankfurt , or Amsterdam . Airlines like Qantas, Emirates, and British Airways fly from cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. 

• Flight times vary but generally range from  25 to 35 hours , including layovers. Round-trip fares typically start from  AUD 1,500 and can go up to  AUD 3,000 or more.

Those coming from New Zealand can connect to Norway through Australia, Asia, or the Middle East, with transit points in places like Dubai , Singapore , or Hong Kong . Airlines such as Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways offer routes from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

•  Total travel time from New Zealand to Norway is generally between  25 to 40 hours , including layovers. 
• Round-trip ticket prices typically range from  NZD 2,000 to NZD  4,000 .

Kristiansten Fortress, Trondheim © Shutterstock

Norway is part of the Schengen Area, which means that citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand, can enter Norway visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) for tourism, business, or family visits.

The Rough Guides to Norway and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Norway

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Norway

• Eating and drinking in Norway
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Norway
• Shopping tips for Norway
• Getting around Norway: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Norway for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Norway

Find even more inspiration here

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 23.05.2024

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Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Dial 113 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

• check the latest information vaccine recommendations for Norway
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Norway .

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro . 

Healthcare in Norway 

If you’re a UK national, you can use your UK passport to get free state-provided medical treatment in hospitals. Some doctors may charge for their services elsewhere. 

Access to free healthcare is not an alternative to travel insurance. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Norway where some staff will speak English. 

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Norway, you can  now also use the Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) or European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) . 

The NHS’s  getting healthcare abroad webpage  has details about:

• how to apply for a  GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new  EHIC  instead of a  GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A  GHIC  or  EHIC  is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your  GHIC  or  EHIC  does not cover, including:

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent
• private healthcare
• private clinics

There is also  guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Norway .

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

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From city breaks in culture-rich Oslo to scenic journeys through the fjords, the Norwegian travel experts at Nordic Visitor can make your trip to Norway from the UK unforgettable and stress-free. In just a 2-hour flight from London you can be exploring Norway’s attractions by train, cruise or car on a bespoke holiday.

Travel to Norway from the UK

Looking for the perfect package holiday to Norway from the UK? Enjoy an authentic and stress-free trip to Norway from the UK with a bespoke tour arranged by the Norwegian travel experts at Nordic Visitor . As one of the leading travel agencies in Scandinavia, we take care of your hotels, your driving route and rental car (if you’re doing a road trip), your tickets for any travel by train or cruise, and any itinerary customisations you desire.

Getting to Norway from the UK

Most trips from the UK to Norway begin in the capital city, Oslo, which is home to many of Norway’s top cultural attractions as well as Norway’s main international airport. Luckily for British travellers, there are a number of short, inexpensive non-stop flights to Oslo Airport  from the UK:

• London to Oslo: 2h 5m (Norwegian, British Airways, SAS, Ryanair)
• Edinburgh to Oslo: 1h 45m (Norwegian)
• Manchester to Oslo: 1h 55m (SAS, Ryanair)

See the Northern Lights in Arctic Norway

From Oslo it’s just 55 minutes via domestic flight to popular winter destinations like Tromsø, Kirkenes or the Lofoten Islands in Norway’s far north. With a short winter break in northern Norway between December and March, you can experience landscapes covered in snow and the incredible northern lights (aurora borealis) as well as winter sports like snowmobiling, dog sledding and more -- all in under a week. You could even spend a night in a snow hotel!

Visit the Norwegian Fjords by train or car

Another major highlight for travellers booking a Norwegian holiday from the UK are the fjords. From Oslo it’s easy to travel to the Bergen area and nearby fjords of western Norway by rental car or train in 7 - 14 days.

By car: Exploring Norway by car from the UK is the way to go if you plan to do some hiking in summer or if you just want to explore at your own pace. Nordic Visitor offers a range of customisable self-drive tours in Norway , available from May to September, that come with marked road maps, information about driving in Norway, our own travel guide showcasing the highlights of each region, and more.

By train: By far the most popular Norwegian train holiday is the Norway in a Nutshell® classic tour , which includes a short fjord cruise on the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and a scenic ride in vintage rail cars on the mountainous Flåm Railway. This tour has year-round departures and can be customised by Nordic Visitor to include additional nights in Bergen as well as side trips to other cities such as Stavanger.

Don’t want to travel on your own? Join a Guided Small Group Tour of Norway to see the fjords and more with an experienced local tour leader at the helm.

Take a Hurtigruten Coastal cruise

You could also experience Norway’s fjord-indented west coast by travelling on a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise. With 34 ports of call between Bergen at the southern end and Kirkenes in the Arctic North, this voyage is a hit with travellers visiting Norway from the UK and makes a great addition to travelling by train from Oslo. Nordic Visitor are certified Hurtigruten and Havila agents. Plus, we offer cruise packages in Norway year-round, so you can even sail under the northern lights in wintertime.

Stree-free Travel from the UK with Norway experts

No matter what type of your holiday in Norway you choose, Nordic Visitor’s itineraries are designed to be well-structured yet flexible to be tailored to your needs and interests. Nordic Visitor can even arrange flexible self-drive tours in Norway and bespoke holiday packages in Scandinavia that combine stays in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and other Nordic destinations.

What’s more, you’ll have your own dedicated travel consultant to advise you about possible add-ons to your tour and handle all the details for you. You’ll also have access to Nordic Visitor’s 24/7 helpline while travelling in Norway, so in case of any any unexpected delays our friendly staff can quickly get your trip back on track.

Contact us to get started on your dream holiday in Norway from the UK!

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts

Experience the northern lights in winter

Head up north to Kirkenes or Tromsø for snowy activities and colourful skies. These short breaks are ideal with extra nights in Oslo.

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

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Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

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Experience Norway in a nutshell on a scenic railway journey between Oslo and Bergen, with route modifications available.

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You do the driving, we handle the travel arrangements. Drive around Norway’s top attractions at your own pace, with a flexible itinerary.

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Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark

Scandinavian Road Trip & Finland Cruise

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Hop on a Havila or Hurtigruten voyage between Bergen and Kirkenes for incredible scenery. Overnight cruises are great in combo with train journeys.

Lofoten & 71°North Cape

Northern norway & coastal cruise, best of the norwegian fjords, expand your nordic adventure.

Why not visit Norway and Scandinavia in one tailor-made trip? Check out our most popular multi-country tour packages below.

Best of Scandinavia & Finland Cruise

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Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

Highlights of Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise

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As a travel agency founded in the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Norway. We offer a variety of tours – both independent and guided – that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own Norway travel experts. To ensure a stress-free trip, we handle all the local details for you – accommodation, activities, rental car, train tickets, cruise reservations and other specialist services.

Oh, and we can customise your itinerary! If you decide you want to add extra nights at a certain location, for example, your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be happy to make suggestions and modify your itinerary.

Different ways you can experience Norway

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Norway below.

Self-drive tours

Independent train travel, guided small group, partially guided, northern lights, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

The tour was perfect and went smoothly the entire time. Communication from Nordic Visitor was timely and detailed. Would book with this tour company again.

Memories we'll cherish forever

We found Norway to be a fabulous country and enjoyed every minute of our trip. The scenery was fantastic, the places visited were brilliant and the people were incredibly friendly and helpful. The information pack provided by Nordic Visitor was invaluable, the route chosen for us was superb and the places we stayed in were great. Likewise, the excursions offered, especially the Rib Safari were fantastic and gave us memories we'll cherish forever. Lastly, but by no means least, Irja, our travel consultant, couldn't have been more helpful and I would like to extend a huge thank you to her for all that she did.

Unforgettable in so many ways

It was unforgettable in so many ways, highlights after highlights. We knew to expect a lot after our trip to Iceland a couple of years ago, also organised by Nordic Visitor. Our expectations were exceeded and more. We saw northern lights three times, the food everywhere was excellent, experienced dog sledding in the moonlight and sleeping in the SnowHotel, and we saw a white reindeer! How lucky we are to have experienced all that. We have now returned home, happy and full of awe.

A great experience

Very well-organised tour and a great experience. Nordic Visitor were very professional and their experience was evident in choosing the well-located and comfortable accommodation they selected for us. Best of all we got to see the northern lights!

Incredibly happy!

Our travel agent, Małgorzata, was amazing to work with! She was able to add a few extra days in Oslo and arranged transportation via train to Bergen. Overall, I thought booking this vacation online and making payments was seamless. All the hotels we stayed in were nice, clean and safe! We loved the breakfast buffets, they were top notch! Also, collecting our rental car and navigating in a foreign country was seamless. We are incredibly happy that our tour package that we received at our first hotel included a physical map that had our tour highlighted.

I'll be recommending Nordic Visitor to my friends

The trip was really amazing. We had an absolutely superb time in Tromsø; hotel and excursions were spot on. The guide and whole the staff was really professional. Professional photos taken by the guide were really fantastic. They gave us excellent care, more than what we have experienced on any trip. Our favourite experience was the snowmobile, but catamaran trip was great too. Certainly I will be recommending it to my friends. I was very pleased that those who delivered the services showed a lot of professionalism.

Very satisfied customer

This was my second experience using Nordic Visitor. I am a very satisfied customer. A few years ago we did a self-drive tour of Iceland that was just amazing. This time we did a train/cruise combo tour of Norway. Once again, I can only say you will have a fantastic experience and you will appreciate the labuor of organising and planning being handled by experts who know what they are doing. The cruises through the fjords were beautiful as were the train trips. We loved the combination of train and boat travel as each offered distinct beauty from a different perspective. The country is truly lovely and we look forward to booking future travel with Nordic Visitor!

Extraordinary!

Extraordinary! Everything went off as planned without a hitch. Our travel guide, Juliana, was exceptional, very responsive in answering our questions and providing updates.

Very satisfied with Nordic Visitor

We were very satisfied with the tour and overall experience with Nordic Visitor. The hotels were strategically chosen and the quality of hotels was satisfactory. The optional tours were also highly recommended. Timings of the schedules throughout the tour were ideal and not rushed.

Best vacation we ever had!

Our family of 5 (3 adult children) loved our Norway fjord tour. We saw the most beautiful scenery and loved each hotel. The food was delicious. Something for everyone. Our guide Al and driver Chris kept things running smoothly. We will have memories to last a lifetime. Thank you Nordic Visitor. Best vacation we ever had!

An excellent decision to book with Nordic Visitor

Following research, we decided to book with Nordic Visitor. This was an excellent decision. The booking process was easy and informative and Hanna was always available for guidance. The accommodation provided was top class and, importantly, convenient to the train stations from which we travelled. Our tour was amazing throughout with stunning scenery and sights.

The tour gives you a fabulous overview of Norway!

The tour gives you a fabulous overview of Norway. We did a lot of travel in between sights but this enabled us to have a real breadth of experience, from fjords to mountain passes, railway adventures and small boats. Our tour guide was excellent and the sights and experiences outlined for us were top-notch. The materials provided about our tour were excellent and well thought out.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Norway adventure.

The first sight that greets most visitors to Norway is Oslo, Norway’s capital city and home to...

Pulpit Rock

Rising an impressive 604 metres (1982 ft) above the Lysefjord, Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock, is...

Geirangerfjord

Considered among the most beautiful fjord in the world, the Geirangerfjord will take your...

What to bring

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

What’s the weather like in Norway? You just might ..

Norwegian Language

You will get by fine with English, but here are a ..

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights ..

Our Services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Norway travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Do you have a question about our Norway tours? Or maybe you want to customise a travel package. Whatever you need, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

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Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Plan and book

• Before You Fly

Baggage information

Find out how much baggage you can take with you as well as what you can bring on board as cabin baggage. If you need a bit more, you can buy extra baggage allowance online. And you can find out how to check in items like sports equipment, musical instruments, or mobility aids.

Check if there are any prohibited items for your destination and read our guide to dangerous goods so there are no surprises at the airport.

Visa and passport information

Depending on your passport and destination you may need to arrange a visa before you fly. Check whether you need one and how to apply here. You can also see the different types of visa you can get for the UAE and how we can help you with the process.

We’ve also added useful information about US visa rules and airport security checks.

Travel information

This is where you’ll find information about family travel, booking our Unaccompanied Minors service, as well as all the details of our special meals for dietary requirements.

You’ll also find flying notices, rules and regulations, as well as your customer rights. And before you pack, check if you’re carrying an item that’s not allowed in the UAE as well as how to get approvals for certain medications.

Health information

Get set for a safe and comfortable journey with tips and health advice on vaccines, medication, travelling during pregnancy, arranging assisted travel and more.

We’ve also offered some reassuring advice on what to do if you feel unwell on board, as well as tips for staying healthy when you arrive like tackling insect bites and beating jet lag. There’s a list of our contact details so you can get in touch with us wherever you are.

Dubai International

Explore our home airport before you arrive. Learn how to get around and transfer between the different terminals. And have a look inside our hub at Emirates Terminal 3.

If you’re on your way through Dubai, make the most of your experience with a short stay at the Dubai International Hotel. Or add a few days with a Dubai Stopover package. If your connection time is particularly long, you could be entitled to our Dubai Connect service.

Top travel tips A–Z

You can have the best possible time in Norway by being well prepared. But don't worry, there are plenty of local tourist information offices that are happy to give you updated tips and advice. Here is our quick guide to some useful information.

To buy wine or beer in Norway, the minimum age is 18, 20 for spirits.

Beer can be found in most supermarkets, but is only sold before 8 pm on weekdays and 6 pm on Saturdays. For wine, spirits or strong beer, you must visit Vinmonopolet, the state alcohol monopoly shops, found in most large cities and towns.

Visit Norway has replaced printed travel information with this comprehensive website. Here, you will find numerous travel tips, information about destinations, maps, and  a route planner , directions on  how to get around , as well as useful facts for a soft landing in the land of  the fjords  and  the midnight sun .

The Visit Norway app gives you information about thousands of places to stay, restaurants, activities, and attractions on and near your destination.

Download the app: iPhone:  Visit Norway for iOS Android:  Visit Norway for Android

Budget travel

Yes, it's possible.  See our 12 tips for budget holidays here .

Calling home

Dial 00 followed by your two or three digit country code, area code, and phone number.

On most mobile phones, using “+” instead of “00” will also work.

If you are calling home on a mobile phone, buying a local pre-paid SIM card (called “kontantkort”) may be the cheapest option. 

Customs regulations

Within the limit of NOK 6,000 you are allowed to bring the following articles free of customs and excise duty into the country (note that the quotas are different from when you’re travelling within the EU):

• A limited amount of alcohol and tobacco
• Meat, meat products, cheese, and foodstuffs except dog and cat food, totalling 10 kilos altogether from EU/EEA countries. It is not permitted to import any meat, meat products, milk and dairy products from countries outside the EU/EEA
• Norwegian and foreign banknotes and coins worth up to NOK 25,000

It is prohibited to import the following without special permission:

• Drugs, medicines, and poisons (minor quantities of medicine for personal use are permitted)
• Spirits over 60% alcohol by volume
• Firerams and ammunition
• Mammals, birds, and exotic animals
• Plants/parts thereof for cultivation

For more on customs regulations, please see  Norwegian Customs .

Daylight Saving Time

Also known as summer time, DST always starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October.

The clock is adjusted one hour ahead in the summer, to move one hour of daylight from the morning to evening.

In general, airlines, trains, buses, ferries, and shops in Norway are accessible for everyone. But some advance planning will still make it easier for you to get around.  Read more about travelling in Norway with disabilities.

Drinking water

Tap water is universally drinkable in Norway, and tastes great. So no need to buy bottled water.

Most running water in the mountains and forests of Norway is clean enough to drink, but avoid water running through pastures or run-off from glaciers, as this may contain harmful microorganisms.

Norway is the longest country in Europe, and it takes about 30 hours to drive from Kristiansand in the south to Hammerfest in the north. The E-motorways are the main arteries connecting cities and regions.  Read more about driving in Norway .

Along 18 selected roads, the  Norwegian Scenic Routes , natural wonders are amplified by art, design, and architecture that brings you closer to nature in new and surprising ways.

Drones and similar UAVs must generally be kept at a minimum distance of 150 metres from both people, vehicles and buildings that are not affiliated with the drone operator, at an altitude of max. 120 metres above the surface. Never fly closer than 5 kilometres to an airport unless you have explicit clearance to do so. The device must always remain within sight of the operator, who must not be under the influence of alcohol.

All flying must show consideration and respect for people, birds, animals, private property, public spaces and tourist spots like viewing points. Please check with your destination for local regulations and whether there are any military or other restricted areas where flying is prohibited by law.  Read more about  use  of drones on Civil Aviation Authority Norway’s website .

Electricity

220 volts AC (50 Hz) is the Norwegian standard.

Norway uses the continental European standard socket.

Almost all electricity in Norway is hydroelectric , so you can use it with a clear conscience.

Emergency telephone numbers

• 112 – Police
• 113 – Ambulance
• 120 – Emergencies at sea
• 22 59 13 00 – Poisons Information Centre
• 1412 TDD (text phone for the deaf or hearing impaired)

Foreign languages

Most Norwegians speak English, especially the younger crowd.

Many have also learned German, French, or Spanish at school, but skill levels may vary.

Getting here

By plane or by train, by bus or by boat, we can help you  get to Norway .

Internet access

Internet access is good in most towns and cities, either through mobile data, or public Wi-Fi in cafés and other public areas. Mobile data coverage will be patchy in sparsely populated areas. Most hotels have free WiFi, but if this is important to you, it’s best to ask the hotel before you book. Many buses, express buses and trains offer free WiFi, but this will often require registration and may have limited coverage.

LGBTIQ+ travel

Most Norwegians have a liberal attitude towards sexuality and gender identity, and Norway was early in introducing anti-discrimination laws. Most  LGBTIQ+ events and groups  are found in the big cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim.

Norway's currency is “kroner”, with the code NOK. That said,  how much should you tip, pay, or expect to be billed ?

Make sure you read the full rules on the  Norwegian Food Safety Authority's website  well before your trip.

Dogs, cats, and ferrets from all EU countries must have pet passports and ID marking. Unless from Sweden, the animal also needs a valid anti-rabies vaccination. In addition, dogs from most EU countries must be given approved tapeworm treatment minimum 24 and maximum 120 hours before arrival. Small rodents, caged birds, and rabbits must have valid import permits issued by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority.

Certain dog breeds are prohibited in Norway. Norway is amongst the few rabies-free countries thanks to broad awareness and strict rules.

Additional rules apply to non-EU countries. For further information not found on the Norwegian Food Safety Authority’s website, please contact a Norwegian embassy or consulate in your country.

Public holidays

Norwegian public holidays are New Year's Day (1 Jan), Labour Day (1 May),  Constitution Day  (17 May),  Christmas Day and Boxing Day  (25-26 Dec). Movable holidays are  Easter , Ascension Day, Whit Sunday, and Whit Monday.

Most shops will be closed on public holidays, and public transit may run with reduced frequency and capacity. Many restaurants and bars will be open, except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Many museums are open on Sundays and some public holidays, but will often be closed on the following Monday.

Retail therapy

Here's what you need to know about shopping in Norway . And before you go, here is information on  currency and prices . 

Right to roam

In Norway, everyone has the unrestricted right to access the countryside, ­including the national parks.  Read more on the right to roam . 

Before you set out, see  our tips on how to stay safe  in the mountains, on the seas, and on the road.

Indoor smoking in public places is prohibited. This includes hotels, bars, restaurants and all other establishments where food and beverage are served.

You must be over 18 years to buy tobacco in Norway.

E-cigarettes that contain nicotine are legal in Norway and can be imported for personal or medical use. Citizens from the EU/EEA area can enter the country with a maximum quantity of one year's consumption. Citizens from outside the EU/EEA are only allowed to import a quantity that doesn't exceed three months of consumption. When importing e-cigarettes that contain nicotine, it's a good idea to bring along documents, such as a prescription or medical certificate that proves that the products were legally bought for personal use.

Storage of luggage

You will find storage lockers for your luggage at Oslo Central Station. You are welcome to keep your belongings in the lockers at all hours, but you will not be able to access the lockers when the station is closed between 01:30 am and 04:30 am. Make your payment for the use of storage lockers by cash, Visa or Mastercard.

All of Norway uses Central European Time (CET), which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

Norway has many toll roads, but the good part is that you don’t need to slow down to pay.  Read more about invoicing and how to register your car .

Visa requirements and passports

Visitors from the Schengen countries do not need to show a passport or visa when entering Norway. You may still be asked to identify yourself at some point during your trip, so it is highly recommended to carry a valid passport or national ID card with you.

A number of countries have introduced  temporary border controls  at the internal borders in Schengen.

Citizens of some countries outside the EU/EEA must have a visitor's visa. You can easily check if this is required for you, and what rules apply to your country, on the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs  website.

Since Svalbard is outside the  Schengen area , identity checks are made of everyone travelling to and from the archipelago. This also includes Norwegians. All travellers must bring their passport or national ID card. Please read more on entry to Svalbard at sysselmannen.no

Note that The European Health Insurance Card is not valid in  Svalbard . It is therefore strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance before you go there.

What to wear

Norwegian weather is liable to change from day to day, so bring a selection of clothes that you can layer. That way, you can add or remove layers depending on temperature. In addition, bring at least one warm jumper, waterproof coat and/or umbrella and comfortable walking shoes, boots, or trainers.

If you go during the winter, you will need an overcoat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes or boots.

In autumn and spring, you may want to bring waterproof trousers and boots.

You can dress lighter in summer but remember that even summer evenings and nights can be chilly, particularly in the mountains.  Read more about seasons and climate in Norway . 

Get ready to explore

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See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

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Paris 2024 Olympics: Guide to Watching the opening ceremony live

Picture by 2024 Getty Images

An Opening Ceremony like no other will signal the start of the Paris 2024 Olympics on Friday evening (26 July).

Sports including football, rugby sevens, handball and archery may already be under way, but billions of eyes will be on the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony that will declare the Games officially open.

And before the Olympic cauldron is lit, a spectacular show awaits, with the Opening Ceremony set to be held along the along the Seine .

It promises to be an Opening Ceremony to remember, and an occasion you won’t want to miss.

• Paris 2024 day-by-day highlights: When to catch the top moments from the Olympic Games
• Twelve of the biggest athletes to watch at Paris 2024

The Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony: What to expect

The Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony starts at 19:30 CEST on Friday 26 July , with the three-hour spectacle set to take the world on a journey through Parisian history and architecture.

The parade will take place along the River Seine , with Thomas Jolly – a French theatre director and actor – overseeing proceedings as the artistic director.

Jolly has remained tight-lipped about certain aspects of the ceremony, but we know the parade will travel west for six kilometres along the river, passing iconic landmarks including the Notre-Dame and the Louvre .

Ceremonies choreographer Maud Le Pladec has promised dancers on every bridge , while costume director Daphne Burki has worked with a team of designers to create 3,000 costumes for the dancers and artists that will feature across the four Olympic and Paralympic ceremonies.

The Parade of Nations will also swap the track for the river, with around 100 boats set to carry an estimated 10,500 athletes.

Flagbearers including Coco Gauff and Tom Daley will proudly fly their nation’s flag on the boats as the parade arrives at the Trocadero – the esplanade near the Eiffel Tower .

And it’s there where the final protocols will take place and the Olympic cauldron will be lit, all making for a unique Opening Ceremony, where one of the most celebrated cities in the world is placed front and centre.

Paris 2024: How to watch the Opening Ceremony live

You will be able to watch every moment from the Paris 2024 Olympics live thanks to the Official Olympic Media Rights Holders.

Check listings for your local broadcaster .

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Thursday 25 July 2024 21:59, UK

• US and Canada intercept Russian and Chinese bombers flying near Alaska
• Threats to UK 'alive and well' in Ukraine - defence expert
• Syrian president on surprise visit to Moscow to meet Putin
• Russian drone fragments found on NATO soil
• Former US and Russian officials 'holding Ukraine talks' | Russia open to peace talks while Zelenskyy remains in power
• Everything you need to know on the war this week
• Your questions answered: Could internal dissent lead to Putin's removal from power? | Has the West been honest about Ukraine's failures?
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

Ask a question or make a comment

That brings an end to our live coverage of the Ukraine war for this evening.

Before we go, here's a brief round up of the day's events:

• Controversial Syrian president Bashar al Assad travelled to Moscow for a meeting with Vladimir Putin , in which the pair discussed the Ukraine war and the situation in the Middle East, the Kremlin said;
• The US and Canada intercepted Russian and Chinese military aircraft flying in international airspace near Alaska, the North American Aerospace Defence Command reported. Russia's defence ministry said the bombers were carrying out joint air patrols.
• Meanwhile, after two more nights of Russian attacks on Ukraine, Romania's defence ministry said it found fragments of a Russian attack drone in a rural village near the Danube river and the country's border with Ukraine this morning. A NATO spokesperson said there was no evidence that its territory was intentionally targeted;
• Russia said senior US and Russian officials have been holding unofficial diplomatic talks on Ukraine , with the Kremlin later claiming it was open to negotiations with Kyiv about ending the conflict on the condition it was given more details about Ukraine's preparedness for such discussions.

You can scroll through the blog below to catch up on the full day's updates.

Ukrainian professional boxer Oleksandr Usyk says he has cried about the war in his country behind closed doors.

Usyk, the first undisputed heavyweight champion in almost 25 years, said it was "hard" to see the recent Russian attack on Okhmatdyt children's hospital in Kyiv.

"Yes [I cry], because it's children, it's not soldiers, it's not a big person. They are 10 years, six, 15 - it's only the start of life. But for these people it's the last. It's hard for me," he said, in an interview with Sky News.

Usyk was speaking at the departure of 50 vehicles from London to Kyiv as part of the ULEZ scrappage scheme. The vehicles will be used to support humanitarian and medical needs in Ukraine.

A Moscow court has ordered the arrest of one of its senior defence ministry staff on suspicion of abuse of power, according to Russian state news agencies.

Andrei Belkov, who heads the ministry's military construction company, is the latest in a string of high-ranking ministry officials to be detained this year.

The company builds bases, hospitals, schools and other facilities for the military, according to its website.

Mr Belkov's boss, former Russian deputy defence minister Timur Ivanov, was also arrested in April on suspicion of taking bribes.

Russia won't be able to keep up its offensive attacks in the long term because its "capabilities are not limitless", a Ukrainian commander has said.

Oleksandr Pivnenko, commander of Ukraine's National Guard, said he believes Russian forces "will not be able to conduct active assaults in many directions" after the next several weeks and will move to being "on the defensive".

"The enemy's offensive capabilities are not limitless, considering the losses they suffer," he said in an interview with Ukrainian outlet Ukrinform.

Mr Pivnenko said Ukraine's military needed to use the time until Russia scales down its attacks to form divisions "and prepare them".

But he warned there would be no "radical" change or any major imminent breakthrough by Kyiv's troops, with forces continuing to look for Russia's "weak points" and "bypass the strong ones".

Russia is planning to slow YouTube speeds on desktop computers in the country by up to 70% in a bid to penalise the video-sharing site, a senior politician has said.

YouTube is one of just a few social media sites still available in Russia, after Moscow blocked other popular apps such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Since the 2022 Russian invasion, the Google-owned company has blocked a host of Russian channels and removed thousands of videos related to the war - including some pro-Kremlin content.

Alexander Khinshtein, a Russian politician in the State Duma lower house of parliament, said the "degradation" of YouTube was a "forced step" against a company he claims "continues to believe it can violate and ignore our legislation with impunity".

He said speeds could drop by 40% by the end of this week and 70% by the end of next week.

Russia has repeatedly fined YouTube for failing to take down content Russia considers illegal or undesirable.

The threat of US sanctions on Russian financial institutions is hampering its ability to secure what it needs for the war against Ukraine, the US treasury secretary has said.

Janet Yellen said Russian revenues had also been hindered by other sanctions and a price cap on Russian oil exports.

The US, UK and other Western nations responded to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine with widespread sanctions targeting high-value areas of Russia's economy, including finance, energy and trade.

Some have targeted members of Vladimir Putin's inner circle, as well as Russian firms linked to the conflict.

A cyber attack by Ukraine's military intelligence agency is causing disruption across Russia, according to Ukrainian media reports.

Sources have told the Kyiv Independent, Suspilne and the New Voice of Ukraine that the seemingly large-scale attack, which has disrupted banking and telecommunications in the country, is now in its third day.

The attack was also affecting Russia's VK social media network and some payment systems,  reports suggested.

Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) has not posted anything official about the attack on its Telegram channel.

By Ivor Bennett , Moscow correspondent

Vladimir Putin has met Bashar al Assad in Moscow, after a surprise visit from the Syrian president that was announced by the Kremlin this morning.

Footage shared on Telegram by the Russian president's press service showed the two leaders smiling and shaking hands, before sitting down and chatting through their respective interpreters.

"I am very glad to see you," President Putin could be heard gushing to his guest.

Russia has been a key ally for President Assad during the Syrian civil war, helping him regain control over the country following an uprising that began in 2011.

But why is he in Moscow now?

Read the full story here ...

Threats to Britain from Russia's invasion of Ukraine are "alive and well" and "no longer a distant possibility", the head of the UK's defence review has said.

Former NATO chief Lord Robertson is leading a "root and branch" review of the UK's armed forces, launched by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, to assess the defence challenges the country faces.

Speaking in the House of Lords today, he pointed to the "depraved conduct" of Russian forces as an example of what was at stake and said it was vital that the UK's military was strong enough to deter any threat.

"We need to recognise... that the threats to our country and our citizens are no longer theoretical. They are no longer a distant possibility," Lord Robertson said.

"They are alive and well in Ukraine today, where Vladimir Putin's Russia has brutally invaded and sought to occupy a peaceful, neighbouring independent nation-state.

"Anybody who needs reminding of what the stakes are in the world today need only look at the depraved conduct of Putin's occupiers in those parts of the Donbas and Crimea that they presently and temporarily occupy."

During a debate on the subject, Lord Stirrup said the UK should not put off increasing defence spending, saying that Mr Putin would "not wait upon our pleasure".

"I suppose we could send him a note saying: 'Dear Vladimir, we know that you're a dire threat to the peace and security of Europe, but would you mind holding off until we get the books straight?' I doubt that he would pay attention," he said.

A peace settlement in the Ukraine war cannot be achieved without Russia and China at the table, Czech President Petr Pavel has said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been eyeing a second Ukrainian peace summit in November after hosting representatives from 92 countries at the first summit in Switzerland last month aimed at outlining a roadmap for future peace efforts.

Russia was not invited, and said discussing any plans for peace in its absence was a waste of time. China was also absent.

The Ukrainian president said earlier this month that Russia should attend the second meeting if it goes ahead.

Mr Pavel said another summit was "desirable" - but he told Czech news agency CTK that the negotiations would not make sense without Moscow's participation.

"Without Russia and China at the table, there really won't be any peace negotiations," he said.

He also said Beijing should use its status as an "important global player" to urge Russia to move towards peace in the conflict.

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