The Culture Guide: 5 Things You Should Not Do When Visiting Norway

Norway is a stunning country with plenty to offer tourists, from the majestic mountains and picturesque fjords to the vibrant cities and charming villages. But as with any country, certain customs and etiquette should be followed to make the most of your trip. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of 5 things you shouldn’t do when visiting Norway.

Don’t Litter

Littering is a big no-no in Norway, and visitors should take care to dispose of their rubbish correctly. There are plenty of bins around, so there’s no excuse. Not only is it considered rude to litter, but you could also be fined if caught.

The fine for littering in Norway is currently 2000 NOK (around £180 / $230), although this can vary depending on the municipality.

Don’t Smoke in Public

Smoking is banned in all indoor public spaces in Norway, including bars and restaurants. There are also some outdoor areas where smoking is not permitted, such as playgrounds and sports facilities.

If you smoke, dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly to avoid a fine.

Don’t Forget to Take Your Shoes Off

When entering someone’s home in Norway, it is customary to take your shoes off at the door, which helps keep the house clean and tidy.

If you’re visiting a public sauna, you’ll also need to take your shoes off and leave them outside.

Don’t Feed the Birds

While feeding the birds in Norway’s many parks and green spaces may be tempting, it’s not allowed. The reason is that the birds can become reliant on human food and lose their natural fear of humans, making them a nuisance.

Don’t Touch the Whales

Norway is one of the best places in the world to see whales, and many tour operators offer boat trips to spot these majestic creatures.

While it may be tempting to touch or even swim with the whales, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated with respect. It’s also illegal to approach them within 300 meters.

Wrapping Up

Like every other country, Norway has customs and etiquette that visitors should keep in mind. The culture is not hard to adjust to, and following these simple rules will help you make the most of your trip. Remember not to litter, smoke in public, take your shoes off indoors, feed the birds, or touch the whales!