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Oslo

Official language

Norwegian (Bokmål and Nynorsk) and Sámi languages

Language capabilities

English

230 volts; two-pin round plugs / adapter required for three-pin Swiss plugs

Banks

9.00/10.00 - 15.00/15.30 h (Mon - Fri)


Shops

9.00/10.00 - 17.00/19.00 h (Mon - Fri)
9.00/10.00 - 15.00/18.00 h (Sat)
Opening hours may vary. Larger shops, supermarkets and shopping centres are usually open until 21.00 h from Monday to Friday.

• 1 January: New Year's Day (Nyttårsdag)

• Thursday before Easter: Maundy Thursday (Skjærtorsdag)

• Friday before Easter: Good Friday (Langfredag)

• Easter Sunday (Påskedag) and Easter Monday (Andre påskedag)

• 1 May: Labour Day (Arbeidernes dag)

• 17 May: Constitution Day (Grunnlovsdagen)

• 40 days after Easter: Ascension Day (Kristi himmelfartsdag)

• Whit Sunday (Første pinsedag) and Whit Monday (Andre pinsedag)

• 24 December: Christmas Eve (Julaften); not a statutory public holiday, although many businesses close early

• 25 December: Christmas Day (Første juledag)

• 26 December: Boxing Day (Andre juledag)

The country is part of the Schengen Area. The following information is intended for Swiss citizens residing in Switzerland. The following documents are required to enter Norway:

• A valid Swiss identity card or Swiss passport.

• No visa is required.

• A ticket for the return or onward journey and valid documents for continuing the journey to the next country must be presented. Entry may otherwise be refused.

• Minors: a travel authorisation is recommended for minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without either parent.

Coastal regions (west coast):
Norway's coastal regions, particularly along the west coast, are influenced by a mild maritime climate.

• Summer (June to August): average temperatures of 12°C to 18°C. Mild summers with frequent rainfall.

• Winter (December to February): average temperatures of 0°C to 5°C. Mild winters with frequent rain and occasional snowfall.

• Spring/autumn (March to May / September to November): average temperatures of 5°C to 10°C. Changeable weather with moderate temperatures.

South-eastern Norway:
South-eastern Norway, including the region around Oslo, has a temperate continental climate.

• Summer (June to August): average temperatures of 15°C to 25°C. Warm summers with occasional heatwaves.

• Winter (December to February): average temperatures of -5°C to 5°C. Cold winters with regular snowfall.

• Spring/autumn (March to May / September to November): average temperatures of 5°C to 15°C. Mild and pleasant transitional seasons.

Inland and mountain regions:
The inland and mountain regions have a subarctic climate with greater temperature variations.

• Summer (June to August): average temperatures of 10°C to 20°C. Short but warm summers.

• Winter (December to February): average temperatures of -10°C to -20°C, colder at higher altitudes. Very cold winters with plenty of snow.

• Spring/autumn (March to May / September to November): average temperatures of 0°C to 10°C. Short transitional seasons with rapid changes in temperature.

Northern Norway:
Northern Norway, including the areas north of the Arctic Circle, has a subarctic to Arctic climate.

• Summer (June to August): average temperatures of 10°C to 15°C. Cool summers, often with the midnight sun.

• Winter (December to February): average temperatures of -10°C to -20°C. Very cold winters, often with northern lights and long periods of darkness.

• Spring/autumn (March to May / September to November): average temperatures of -5°C to 10°C. Cool transitional seasons with rapid changes in weather.

The ideal time for your trip to Norway:

• Beach holidays: June to August on the south coast and in the fjord regions.

• City breaks: spring, from May to June, and autumn, from September to October, are considered ideal.

• Winter holidays: December to March for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and dog sledding in mountain regions such as Lillehammer, Geilo, Hemsedal and Trysil, and for viewing the northern lights in northern Norway.

• Mobile phones: Using a mobile phone in Norway may incur roaming charges. Travellers are advised to check the fees before departure and, if appropriate, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.

• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Prepaid SIM cards: A local prepaid SIM card can be purchased for local calls and mobile data. Norway's main providers are Telenor, Telia and ice.

• Geirangerfjord: a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking scenery, waterfalls and steep cliffs.

• Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): a spectacular rock platform with breathtaking views of the Lysefjord.

• Trolltunga: an impressive rock ledge projecting high above a lake.

• North Cape, Magerøya: an iconic cliff plateau known for the midnight sun in summer. It lies on an island rather than on the European mainland; nearby Knivskjellodden extends slightly farther north.

• Lofoten Islands: a picturesque archipelago with impressive scenery, fishing villages and activities such as hiking and kayaking.

• Bergen: a historic harbour city with the Bryggen Hanseatic quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the fish market.

• Oslo: the capital, with attractions such as the Opera House, Vigeland Sculpture Park and museums on the Bygdøy peninsula.

• Flåmsbana (Flåm Railway): one of the world's most beautiful railway routes, running through picturesque fjord scenery.

• Nærøyfjord: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's narrowest fjords.

• Jotunheimen National Park: home to Norway's highest mountains and ideal for hiking and mountaineering.

• Sognefjord: Norway's longest and deepest fjord, surrounded by dramatic scenery.

• Tromsø: the gateway to the Arctic, known for the northern lights, midnight sun and Polar Museum.

• Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien): one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads, with spectacular bridges and views.

• Stavanger: a coastal city with a historic centre and access to the Lysefjord and Preikestolen.

• Ålesund: an Art Nouveau town with beautiful architecture and access to the Sunnmøre Alps.

Travel inspiration

• Oslo: sights and tips – from the Opera House and Havnepromenade to Bygdøy

• Bergen attractions: The best tips for Norway’s fjord city

Norwegian cuisine is distinguished by its use of fresh, local ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Some of the most important features and dishes of Norwegian gastronomy include:

• Fish and seafood: Norwegian salmon (laks) is known worldwide and is often served smoked (røkelaks) or marinated as gravlaks. Bacalao is a dish made with dried and salted cod, often cooked in a tomato sauce with potatoes and olives. Various fish, including mackerel and trout, are traditionally smoked.

• Meat dishes: kjøttkaker are meatballs served in a brown sauce, often with potatoes and peas. Lamb is particularly popular in autumn and frequently appears in stews such as fårikål, made with lamb and cabbage. Reindeer and elk meat are delicacies often served on special occasions.

• Dairy products: brunost, or brown cheese, is a caramelised whey cheese with a sweet flavour, often eaten on bread. Geitost is a goat's-milk variety of brown cheese.

• Bread and pastries: lefse is a thin, soft flatbread made from potato dough and often spread with butter and sugar. Kanelboller are cinnamon buns that are very popular in bakeries and cafés. Knekkebrød, or crispbread, is eaten as a snack or at breakfast.

• Sweets: kransekake is a traditional cake made from almonds, sugar and egg white, often served on special occasions. Rømmegrøt is a sour-cream porridge eaten with cinnamon, sugar and butter.

• Drinks: aquavit is a traditional spirit made from potatoes and flavoured with spices such as caraway. Coffee is very popular in Norway and is often enjoyed socially.

• Special culinary experiences: matpakke is the tradition of preparing a packed lunch of open sandwiches for work or school. Rømme, a type of sour cream, is served as an accompaniment to many dishes.

• Regional specialities: raspeballer or klubb are potato dumplings that vary from region to region and are often served with meat. Pinnekjøtt are cured lamb ribs served at Christmas.

Norwegian cuisine reflects the country's natural resources and long coastal history. Fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods take centre stage, making its dishes authentic and nourishing.

• Greetings: in Norway, a simple and friendly greeting is customary. People shake hands and say “Hallo” or “Hei”; a more formal greeting is “God dag”. Maintaining eye contact and smiling are important.

• Saying please and thank you: Norwegians value politeness. “Vær så snill” means please and “Takk” means thank you. “Tusen takk” expresses warmer thanks.

• Clothing: clothing in Norway is functional and suited to the weather. Layering is popular because conditions change quickly. Neat, clean clothing is expected in formal situations, such as at work or on special occasions; otherwise, dress tends to be casual.

• Dining culture: Norwegian dining culture is straightforward and based on fresh, local ingredients. Punctuality is important, particularly when invited for a meal. It is customary to bring a small gift such as flowers or chocolates. At a formal meal, guests wait until the host begins eating. At buffets, it is polite not to take excessive portions so that enough remains for everyone.

• Smoking: smoking is prohibited in public buildings, restaurants, bars and on public transport. People generally smoke outdoors or in specially designated areas. Many Norwegians use snus, an oral tobacco product, as an alternative to smoking.

• Tipping: tipping is not obligatory in Norway, but it is appreciated when service has been exceptionally good. In restaurants, people often round up the bill or leave around 5-10%. Tipping is also not customary in taxis and hotels, although a small token for good service is appreciated.

• Other: punctuality is highly valued in professional and private life. Norwegians are environmentally conscious, and sorting waste and recycling are taken for granted. Visitors are expected to do the same. Norwegians are often reserved and value privacy, so respect personal space and avoid loud conversations on public transport. Outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing are very popular. Respect nature and leave no litter.

• Drinking water quality: Norway's drinking water is among the best in the world. It is clean, safe and can generally be drunk directly from the tap. Water quality is high in towns, villages and many remote areas.

• Vaccinations: no specific vaccinations are generally required to enter Norway. Travellers are nevertheless advised to keep routine vaccinations up to date, particularly those for diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles.

• Medical care is available. The European Health Insurance Card must be presented for medical treatment. The card is not valid in Svalbard. Consult the information provided by the Common Institution under the Federal Health Insurance Act.

• If you depend on particular medication, carry an adequate supply. Many countries have special rules on medicines containing controlled substances, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, check with the responsible foreign diplomatic mission, embassy or consulate, before departure.

• Before and during your trip, follow media reports about the current situation and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available from the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• The Norwegian authorities point to the threat of terrorist attacks.

• Driving licence: the Swiss driving licence is recognised. For car rental, some companies require it to have been held for at least one year.

• Minimum age: it ranges from 21 to 25 depending on the rental company.

• Equipment and national identifier: a warning triangle and high-visibility vest must be carried in the vehicle. A CH sticker is required on a Swiss vehicle if its registration plate does not already display a compliant national identifier.

• Lights: daytime running lights or dipped headlights must be used during the day. In tunnels and poor visibility, ensure that the rear lights are also switched on.

• Alcohol: the blood alcohol limit is 0.2‰.

• Tolls: road tolls may apply and vary by location and vehicle. Information for foreign vehicles is available from AutoPASS; information on Oslo's toll system is provided by Fjellinjen.

• Long-distance trains: Norway's long-distance services are operated by several companies. Vy operates routes including the Bergen Line, while SJ Norge and Go-Ahead Nordic operate other major routes. Key connections include Oslo-Bergen, Oslo-Trondheim and Oslo-Stavanger. Trains are modern and comfortable, and night trains run on several long-distance routes.

• Regional trains: these connect smaller towns and communities with the larger cities. They are an important link in rural areas and a convenient way to explore the Norwegian countryside.

• Buses: Norway has a comprehensive urban and rural bus network. Long-distance and regional operators include NOR-WAY Bussekspress and Vy Buss, formerly Nettbuss. Long-distance buses serve many destinations without direct rail connections.

• Subway and trams: Oslo has a well-developed subway network, the T-bane, connecting the city and surrounding areas. The city also has a tram network that is particularly convenient for shorter journeys.

• Tickets: tickets are available online, via apps, at ticket machines and at stations. Some regional and local buses also sell tickets on board, sometimes with a surcharge. In Oslo, tickets can be purchased using the current Ruter app.

• Other: public transport is generally clean and well maintained, and timetable information is readily available, often in several languages. Many services are electrically powered, and bicycles can be taken on numerous trains and buses subject to the operator's conditions.

• Oslo-Gardermoen Airport (OSL): direct flights from Zurich and Geneva, depending on the seasonal schedule.

• Bergen Airport (BGO): seasonal direct flights from Zurich.

• Stavanger Airport (SVG): generally accessible from Switzerland with a connection.

• Trondheim Airport (TRD): generally accessible from Switzerland with a connection.

• Tromsø Airport (TOS): direct flights from Zurich on selected dates; the timetable varies by season.

Major airlines operating in Norway include SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Norwegian Air Shuttle and Widerøe.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• Police: 112

• Fire brigade: 110

• Ambulance/medical emergencies: 113

Regional Consular Centre Nordic and Baltic Countries
c/o Embassy of Switzerland
Valhallavägen 64
114 27 Stockholm
Sweden
Tel.: +46 8 676 79 00
Email: stockholm.cc@eda.admin.ch

Embassy of Switzerland in Norway
Oscars gate 29
NO-0352 Oslo
Norway
Tel.: +47 22 54 23 90
Email: oslo@eda.admin.ch

Special legal provisions

• The law sets various punishable blood alcohol limits for drivers. Exceeding them is severely punished. Further information is available under Road rules and safety.

• Violations of drug laws can lead to several years' imprisonment, even where small quantities or any type of drug are involved.

Special advice

• Svalbard: outside Longyearbyen, infrastructure is very limited. Medical care is available in Longyearbyen, but certain serious illnesses and injuries must be treated on the Norwegian mainland. These circumstances and the extreme weather conditions require good preparation and equipment. All travellers must carry a valid travel document. Svalbard is not part of the Schengen Area, although it is part of Norway. Consult the information and regulations of the Governor of Svalbard.

Natural hazards

• Extreme winter weather: outdoor activities require good preparation and equipment. It is advisable to be accompanied by a local guide.

• Avalanches: there is an acute risk in winter. Further information is available from the Norwegian Avalanche Warning Service.

• Forest fires: there is a risk in many areas during summer.

• Floods and landslides: heavy rainfall can cause flooding, landslides and damage to infrastructure. Travel may also be temporarily disrupted.

• Official warnings: follow the recommendations and warnings issued by local authorities and residents. Further information is available from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and NRK: Weather warnings in Norway.