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Norway

Norge

Capital:Oslo
Population:5.5M
Currency:Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Language:Bokmal Norwegian (official), Nynorsk Norwegian (official)
Sunset at Aurlandsfjord, Norway

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Quick Look Factsheet

A multi-page overview of Norway.

Norway Factsheet

Customs and Culture

Cultural Attributes

Norwegians cherish their freedom and independence.  Although the country has a king, his role is mainly ceremonial. Norway's love of liberty stems from its long history of domination by Sweden and Denmark.

Most people's lifestyles include sufficient money for food, leisure activities, and to find fulfillment in life. Norway is a wealthy country, and many Norwegians spend money on housing, including refurbishing older homes

Most Norwegians have blond hair, blue eyes and the same ethnic origins. The largest minority group in Norway is the Sami.  The Sami were Norway's first inhabitants. Norway is ranked as having the highest standard of living in the world.

Norwegian cities are very clean. Many parks are found within the cities, and wilderness areas are nearby. Oslo is Norway's busiest city.   Because Norway is mountainous, some areas are isolated from each other. The distances between people have caused many different communities and dialects to develop. Some people living in the Norwegian countryside still lead a traditional way of life and farm for a living.

Sunset at Aurlandsfjord, Norway

Land of the Midnight Sun and Free Spirit

Get More Customs and Culture

6 more cultural topics for members

Social Customs & Etiquette · Diet · Family · Dating Customs · Recreation · Student Life

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Holidays

  • Constitution Day

    5/17

    Independence

  • Christmas

    12/25

    Christmas

Dates of Interest

  • February 6th

    Sami National Day commemorates the first Sami National Assembly held in 1917 and celebrates Sami culture, language, and heritage. It is observed with cultural events, reindeer races, traditional joik singing, and exhibitions in Sami communities across Norway.

How do people greet each other in Norway?

Shaking hands is the normal greeting in any situation, and hugging after a handshake is common.

Do

  • Shake hands when meeting someone
  • Say "god morgen" in the morning

Good to know

  • A hug is also appropriate when guests leave
  • Bokmål is the more popular of the two official forms of Norwegian; the alphabet has three extra letters: æ, ø, å

What are the dining customs in Norway?

Norwegians typically eat four meals a day, with dinner (middag) being the only hot meal, usually eaten at home around four in the afternoon.

Do

  • Expect open-faced sandwiches, often with salted herring, brown goat cheese, cold meats, or spreads
  • Try flatbrød (thin, crisp bread) with stews

Good to know

  • Breakfast (frokost) is eaten at home; lunch (lunsj) is usually at school or work
  • Dinner often includes soup, bread, and a seafood main course
  • Some people eat a late meal called kveldsmat with tea or coffee
  • Gomme is a popular sweet milk dish eaten with waffles, and rømmegrøt is often served at weddings

What etiquette should I know when visiting Norwegians?

Norwegians value personal space, keeping an "intimate zone" of about three feet around them during conversation. They often visit each other at home rather than dining out.

Don’t

  • Don't stand too close during conversation; respect the roughly three-foot personal space

Good to know

  • Norwegians take vacation during Easter week, often camping, hiking, staying in cabins, or skiing
  • Christmas (Jul) is celebrated on Christmas Eve with a traditional dinner followed by exchanging gifts
  • Church bells ring at five o'clock on Christmas Eve to signal the start of Christmas
  • Christmas trees are sometimes decorated with small Norwegian flags

How should I dress in Norway?

Norwegians generally prefer a casual, comfortable, and practical style, favoring minimalist designs, neutral colors, and clothing suited to the weather and outdoor activities.

Do

  • Dress in layers with waterproof outerwear and sturdy footwear for the variable climate
  • Bring warm clothing like wool sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves in winter
  • Opt for lighter, breathable layers in summer, especially in coastal areas

Good to know

  • Everyday wear often includes jeans, sweaters, t-shirts, and sneakers in neutral colors
  • Outdoor gear brands like Norrøna, Bergans, and Helly Hansen are popular
  • Traditional clothing like the bunad is worn for special occasions such as weddings, confirmations, and national holidays
  • Sustainability matters; second-hand shopping and clothing swaps are popular

What gestures are common in Norway?

A hug is an appropriate gesture when guests leave.

Good to know

  • Be mindful of personal space during conversation

What is family life like in Norway?

Family relationships are very important, and families are usually small, often with just two children, with both parents commonly working.

Good to know

  • High taxes fund a welfare system that includes programs for families and children

What do Norwegians do for recreation?

Norwegians love the outdoors, enjoying skiing, hiking, swimming, fishing, and sailing, and often spend time with friends at home.

Good to know

  • Kids play soccer, handball, and gymnastics on sports teams, and enjoy swimming and skiing
  • Many people own cabins in remote places reached by hiking
  • The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is one of the world's most difficult ski jumps
  • The Birkebeiner is a 58K endurance ski race near Lillehammer, first held in 1932
  • Norwegians often visit each other at home since eating at restaurants can be expensive

Last updated: 2026-07-12 · Sources: CountryReports

Photos of Norway

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Travel and Tourism

Travel Alert Status
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Currency
Norwegian krone (NOK)
Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Climate
Many people expect Norway's climate to be bitterly cold. The latitude of the country certainly suggests this would be true. The Arctic Circle cuts through Norway about halfway up the length of the country. Oslo lies in the southern part of the country but is at the same latitude as Anchorage, Alaska. Hammerfest, on the northern tip of the Norwegian mainland, is the world's most northerly town. Still, the climate of cities along the Norwegian coast is much milder than might be expected at such northerly latitudes, even during midwinter, because of the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. Summer in the southern part of the country can last from early May to late August or, in a bad year, for only a week in late June. There are about 20 hours of daylight during June and July in Oslo. (Note: In northern Norway, the midnight sun shines for nearly two months during this period!) Summer days rarely get warmer than 80 F and can be quite cool in the 50s and 60s. Winter brings only about six hours of daylight in Oslo and none in areas north of the Arctic Circle. Snow brightens the landscape considerably, even during the shortest days. However, some people find the darkness oppressive. Norwegians seem to have found numerous ways to combat the depression of winter such as utilizing the many (often lit) cross-country trails and downhill slopes within the Oslo city limits or keeping things cozy and bright inside, using lots of candlelight for cheer and warmth.
Airports
101
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Recipes

Featured Dish

Smultring (Doughnuts)

Dessert

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History

Historical Eras

  1. Viking Age

    793 – 1066

    Harald Fairhair unified the Norwegian petty kingdoms around 872, establishing the first Norwegian monarchy. Norse seafarers raided, traded, and settled across Europe, the North Atlantic, and as far as North America, reached by Leif Erikson around 1000. King Olav Tryggvason's conversion to Christianity in 994 and Olav II's subsequent evangelization reshaped Norwegian society, culminating in Olav's martyrdom at Stiklestad in 1030.

  2. Medieval Kingdom

    1066 – 1397

    Norway consolidated as a Christian kingdom under a succession of Scandinavian rulers, reaching its medieval apex under Haakon IV and Magnus VI in the 13th century, when Norwegian law was codified and Iceland and Greenland came under the crown. The catastrophic Black Death of 1350 killed roughly half the population, decimating the nobility and administrative capacity and severely weakening the kingdom's independence.

  3. Danish Union

    1397 – 1814

    The Union of Kalmar in 1397 brought Norway, Denmark, and Sweden under one crown; after Sweden's departure in 1523, Norway remained firmly subordinated to Denmark. By 1536–37, Norway was formally reduced to a Danish province, its church reformed to Evangelical Lutheranism under Christian III. Four centuries of Danish rule reshaped Norwegian language, culture, and governance, ending only when the Napoleonic-era Treaty of Kiel ceded Norway to Sweden in 1814.

  4. Swedish Union & Constitution

    1814 – 1905

    Norwegian patriots drafted a liberal constitution at Eidsvoll on May 17, 1814, asserting self-governance before a Swedish invasion forced a compromise union under the Swedish crown. Norway retained its constitution and Storting, fostering growing national consciousness throughout the 19th century. A peaceful referendum in 1905 dissolved the union, and Danish Prince Carl ascended as King Haakon VII, restoring full Norwegian sovereignty.

  5. World Wars & NATO

    1905 – 1949

    Independent Norway maintained neutrality during World War I but was nonetheless drawn into the conflict through its large merchant fleet. Nazi Germany invaded in April 1940 despite a declared neutrality; Haakon VII and the government fled into exile while resistance movements fought a five-year occupation. The trauma of occupation extinguished faith in neutrality, leading Norway to become a founding member of NATO in 1949 and of the United Nations, whose first Secretary-General was Norwegian Trygve Lie.

  6. Modern Norway

    1949 – present

    Post-war Norway rebuilt rapidly under a social democratic model, developing one of the world's most comprehensive welfare states. The discovery of North Sea oil and gas in the late 1960s transformed the economy, with petroleum revenues channeled into the Government Pension Fund to secure long-term prosperity. Norway today ranks consistently among the highest nations in human development and quality of life, while maintaining a prominent role in international diplomacy and the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Overview

The Viking period (9th to 11th centuries) was one of national unification and expansion. The Norwegian royal line died out in 1387, and the country entered a period of union with Denmark. By 1586, Norway had become part of the Danish Kingdom. In 1814, as a result of the Napoleonic wars, Norway was separated from Denmark and combined with Sweden. The union persisted until 1905, when Sweden recognized Norwegian independence.

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Timeline of Key Events

  1. 700 – 800

    Vikings began arriving to the Orkney Islands

    Vikings began arriving to the Orkney Islands.

  2. 850 – 870

    Viking King Harold Fairhair united Norway into one Kingdom

    Viking King Harold Fairhair united Norway into one Kingdom.

  3. 1000

    Leif Erikson discovered North America

    Leif Erikson discovered North America.

  4. 1015

    Olaf II Haraldsson, declared himself King of Norway

    Olaf II Haraldsson, declared himself King of Norway after returning from war with the Danes. In time, he converted his people to Christianity.

  5. 1028

    King Olav II forced to flee Norway

    King Olav II forced to flee Norway by Canute, King of England and Denmark; thus Canute the Great became King of Norway.

  6. 1030

    King Olav II killed at battle of Stiklestad

    King Olav II killed at battle of Stiklestad.

  7. 1066

    Battle of Stampford Bridge

    King Harold Godwinson II marched north and attacked the Vikings at the Battle of Stampford Bridge in Yorkshire.

View full timeline (43 events)
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Interesting Facts

  • When a child loses a tooth they put their tooth in a glass of water when they go to bed. The next morning there are coins in the glass of water.

  • Olav Haraldsson's body was taken to Trondheim where a cathedral was built over his grave. Trondheim became an important place of pilgrimage.

  • In the middle of the fourteenth century the Plague (Black Death) swept through Norway killing over a third of the population.

  • One birthday tradition is the birthday child stands out in front of their class and chooses a friend to share a little dance while the rest of the class sings a happy birthday song.

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Geography and Environment

Located in northwestern Europe on the Scandinavian Peninsula, Norway is a picturesque country bounded on the west by the North Atlantic and the North Sea and on the east by Sweden, Finland, and Russia. Norway covers 150,000 square miles, including Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands, with landscape ranging from farms and fields to forests, lakes, plateaus, glaciers, and the highest peak in northern Europe.
Terrain
glaciated; mostly high plateaus and rugged mountains broken by fertile valleys; small, scattered plains; coastline deeply indented by fjords; arctic tundra in north
Climate
Many people expect Norway's climate to be bitterly cold. The latitude of the country certainly suggests this would be true. The Arctic Circle cuts through Norway about halfway up the length of the country. Oslo lies in the southern part of the country but is at the same latitude as Anchorage, Alaska. Hammerfest, on the northern tip of the Norwegian mainland, is the world's most northerly town. Still, the climate of cities along the Norwegian coast is much milder than might be expected at such northerly latitudes, even during midwinter, because of the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. Summer in the southern part of the country can last from early May to late August or, in a bad year, for only a week in late June. There are about 20 hours of daylight during June and July in Oslo. (Note: In northern Norway, the midnight sun shines for nearly 2 months during this period!) Summer days rarely get warmer than 80°F and can be quite cool—in the 50s and 60s. Winter brings only about 6 hours of daylight in Oslo and none in areas north of the Arctic Circle. Snow brightens the landscape considerably, even during the shortest days. However, some people find the darkness oppressive. Norwegians seem to have found numerous ways to combat the depression of winter such as utilizing the many (often lit) cross-country trails and downhill slopes within the Oslo city limits or keeping things cozy and bright inside, using lots of candlelight for cheer and warmth.
Natural Hazards
rockslides, avalanches
Current Environmental Issues
water pollution; acid rain damaging forests and adversely affecting lakes, threatening fish stocks; air pollution from vehicle emissions
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People & Demographics

Religion

Languages Spoken

Bokmal Norwegian (official), Nynorsk Norwegian (official)

  • Norwegian

Population

Population
5,474,000
Population in Major Urban Areas
OSLO (capital) 915,000
Nationality Noun
Norwegian(s)
Ethnic Groups
Norwegian, Sami 20,000

Education

Literacy Definition
age 15 and over can read and write

Health Information

Life Expectancy at Birth
Norway consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for life expectancy, reflecting the nation's strong healthcare infrastructure, high standard of living, and deeply embedded culture of wellness. As of the most recent available data, the average life expectancy at birth in Norway is approximately 83 years, with women typically living to around 85 years and men to approximately 81 years. These figures place Norway well above the global average of roughly 73 years. Several interconnected factors contribute to Norway's exceptional longevity. The country operates a universal healthcare system funded through taxation, ensuring that all residents have access to medical care regardless of income. Preventive health services, routine screenings, and mental health support are integrated into the national health framework, helping to detect and manage illnesses early. Lifestyle factors also play a significant role. Norwegians tend to maintain active lifestyles, with outdoor recreation such as skiing, hiking, and cycling deeply embedded in the national culture. Dietary habits, while increasingly influenced by global trends, have traditionally emphasized fish, whole grains, and fresh produce — foods associated with cardiovascular health and longevity. Norway also benefits from extremely low rates of poverty, strong social safety nets, and some of the highest levels of gender equality in the world. Research consistently links these social determinants of health to longer, healthier lives. Air quality across most of Norway is excellent, and clean drinking water is universally accessible. Smoking rates in Norway have declined significantly over recent decades due to sustained public health campaigns, tobacco taxes, and indoor smoking bans — contributing to lower rates of lung cancer and chronic respiratory disease compared to many other nations. Infant mortality in Norway is among the lowest globally, recorded at fewer than 2 deaths per 1,000 live births, which positively impacts the overall life expectancy at birth calculation. The combination of advanced neonatal care, prenatal health programs, and broad access to maternal healthcare supports these outcomes. Norway's life expectancy figures have shown a steady upward trend over the past several decades and are projected to continue rising as medical technology advances and public health programs are refined.

Life Expectancy

Life Expectancy at Birth
Norway consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for life expectancy, reflecting the nation's strong healthcare infrastructure, high standard of living, and deeply embedded culture of wellness. As of the most recent available data, the average life expectancy at birth in Norway is approximately 83 years, with women typically living to around 85 years and men to approximately 81 years. These figures place Norway well above the global average of roughly 73 years. Several interconnected factors contribute to Norway's exceptional longevity. The country operates a universal healthcare system funded through taxation, ensuring that all residents have access to medical care regardless of income. Preventive health services, routine screenings, and mental health support are integrated into the national health framework, helping to detect and manage illnesses early. Lifestyle factors also play a significant role. Norwegians tend to maintain active lifestyles, with outdoor recreation such as skiing, hiking, and cycling deeply embedded in the national culture. Dietary habits, while increasingly influenced by global trends, have traditionally emphasized fish, whole grains, and fresh produce — foods associated with cardiovascular health and longevity. Norway also benefits from extremely low rates of poverty, strong social safety nets, and some of the highest levels of gender equality in the world. Research consistently links these social determinants of health to longer, healthier lives. Air quality across most of Norway is excellent, and clean drinking water is universally accessible. Smoking rates in Norway have declined significantly over recent decades due to sustained public health campaigns, tobacco taxes, and indoor smoking bans — contributing to lower rates of lung cancer and chronic respiratory disease compared to many other nations. Infant mortality in Norway is among the lowest globally, recorded at fewer than 2 deaths per 1,000 live births, which positively impacts the overall life expectancy at birth calculation. The combination of advanced neonatal care, prenatal health programs, and broad access to maternal healthcare supports these outcomes. Norway's life expectancy figures have shown a steady upward trend over the past several decades and are projected to continue rising as medical technology advances and public health programs are refined.
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Government & Politics

Country Identity

Country Name
Norway
Full Country Name
Kingdom of Norway
Local - Long
Kongeriket Norge
Local - Short
Norge

Government Structure

Government Type
constitutional monarchy
Legal System
mixture of customary law, civil law system, and common law traditions; Supreme Court renders advisory opinions to legislature when asked; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Executive Branch
chief of state: King HARALD V (since 17 January 1991); Heir Apparent Crown Prince HAAKON MAGNUS, son of the monarch (born 20 July 1973) head of government: Prime Minister Jonas Gahr STØRE (since 14 October 2021) cabinet: State Council appointed by the monarch with the approval of parliament elections: none; the monarch is hereditary; following parliamentary elections, the leader of the majority party or the leader of the majority coalition is usually appointed prime minister by the monarch with the approval of the parliament
Legislative Branch
Unicameral Parliament or Storting (169 seats; members are elected by popular vote through proportional representation to serve four-year terms) Elections: last held 13 September 2021 (next to be held September 2025) Election results: percent of vote by party - Labor Party 26.3%, Conservative Party 20.4%, Center Party 13.6%, Progress Party 11.7%, Socialist Left Party 7.6%, Red Party 4.7%, Liberal Party 4.6%, Green Party 3.9%, Christian Democratic Party 3.8%, other 3.4%; seats by party - Labor Party 48, Conservative Party 36, Center Party 28, Progress Party 21, Socialist Left Party 13, Red Party 8, Liberal Party 8, Green Party 3, Christian Democratic Party 3, Patient Focus 1 Note: The Storting was fully unicameral as of 2009, when the former division into the Odelsting and Lagting was abolished by constitutional amendment. The parliament no longer divides itself into two chambers for legislative purposes.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court or Hoyesterett (justices appointed by the monarch)
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Constitution
17 May 1814, modified in 1884
Independence
7 June 1905 Norway declared the union with Sweden dissolved; 26 October 1905 Sweden agreed to the repeal of the union
National Holiday
Constitution Day, 17 May (1814)

Capital City

Capital Name
Oslo
Capital - geographic coordinate
59 55 N, 10 45 E
Capital Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

the medieval name was spelt "Aslo"; the as component refered either to the Ekeberg ridge southeast of the town ("as" in modern Norwegian), or to the Aesir (Norse gods); lo refered to "meadow," so the most likely interpretations would have been either "the meadow beneath the ridge" or "the meadow of the gods"; both explanations are considered equally plausible

Military

Branches: Norwegian Army (Haeren), Royal Norwegian Navy (Kongelige Norske Sjoeforsvaret, RNoN; includes Coastal Rangers and Coast Guard (Kystvakt)), Royal Norwegian Air Force (Kongelige Norske Luftforsvaret, RNoAF), Home Guard (Heimevernet, HV)

Embassy / Diplomatic Mission

U.S. Embassy Oslo

Henrik Ibsensgate 48

Telephone: (47) 2244-8550 (24 hours)

Fax: (47) 2256-2751

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Economy

The Norwegian economy is a prosperous bastion of welfare capitalism, featuring a combination of free market activity and government intervention. The government controls key areas, such as the vital petroleum sector, through large-scale state enterprises like Equinor.

Snapshot

Currency Name and Code
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
GDP — official exchange rate
$246,900,000,000 (USD)
GDP Real Growth Rate
1.8%
Gini Index
25.8
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News & Weather

Current Weather

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Climate Overview

Many people expect Norway's climate to be bitterly cold. The latitude of the country certainly suggests this would be true. The Arctic Circle cuts through Norway about halfway up the length of the country.

Oslo lies in the southern part of the country but is at the same latitude as Anchorage, Alaska. Hammerfest, on the northern tip of the Norwegian mainland, is the world's most northerly town. Still, the climate of cities along the Norwegian coast is much milder than might be expected at such northerly latitudes, even during midwinter, because of the warming effect of the Gulf Stream.

Summer in the southern part of the country can last from early May to late August or, in a bad year, for only a week in late June. There are about 20 hours of daylight during June and July in Oslo. (Note: In northern Norway, the midnight sun shines for nearly two months during this period!) Summer days rarely get warmer than 80 F and can be quite cool in the 50s and 60s.

Winter brings only about six hours of daylight in Oslo and none in areas north of the Arctic Circle. Snow brightens the landscape considerably, even during the shortest days. However, some people find the darkness oppressive. Norwegians seem to have found numerous ways to combat the depression of winter such as utilizing the many (often lit) cross-country trails and downhill slopes within the Oslo city limits or keeping things cozy and bright inside, using lots of candlelight for cheer and warmth.

Videos

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Norway?
The population of Norway is approximately 5.5M.
How do people greet each other in Norway?
Shaking hands is the normal greeting in any situation, and hugging after a handshake is common. Do: Shake hands when meeting someone Say "god morgen" in the morning A hug is also appropriate when guests leave Bokmål is the more popular of the two official forms of Norwegian; the alphabet has three extra letters: æ, ø, å
What are the dining customs in Norway?
Norwegians typically eat four meals a day, with dinner (middag) being the only hot meal, usually eaten at home around four in the afternoon. Do: Expect open-faced sandwiches, often with salted herring, brown goat cheese, cold meats, or spreads Try flatbrød (thin, crisp bread) with stews Breakfast (frokost) is eaten at home; lunch (lunsj) is usually at school or work Dinner often includes soup, bread, and a seafood main course Some people eat a late meal called kveldsmat with tea or coffee Gomme is a popular sweet milk dish eaten with waffles, and rømmegrøt is often served at weddings
What etiquette should I know when visiting Norwegians?
Norwegians value personal space, keeping an "intimate zone" of about three feet around them during conversation. They often visit each other at home rather than dining out. Don't: Don't stand too close during conversation; respect the roughly three-foot personal space Norwegians take vacation during Easter week, often camping, hiking, staying in cabins, or skiing Christmas (Jul) is celebrated on Christmas Eve with a traditional dinner followed by exchanging gifts Church bells ring at five o'clock on Christmas Eve to signal the start of Christmas Christmas trees are sometimes decorated with small Norwegian flags
How should I dress in Norway?
Norwegians generally prefer a casual, comfortable, and practical style, favoring minimalist designs, neutral colors, and clothing suited to the weather and outdoor activities. Do: Dress in layers with waterproof outerwear and sturdy footwear for the variable climate Bring warm clothing like wool sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves in winter Opt for lighter, breathable layers in summer, especially in coastal areas Everyday wear often includes jeans, sweaters, t-shirts, and sneakers in neutral colors Outdoor gear brands like Norrøna, Bergans, and Helly Hansen are popular Traditional clothing like the bunad is worn for special occasions such as weddings, confirmations, and national holidays Sustainability matters; second-hand shopping and clothing swaps are popular
What gestures are common in Norway?
A hug is an appropriate gesture when guests leave. Be mindful of personal space during conversation
What is family life like in Norway?
Family relationships are very important, and families are usually small, often with just two children, with both parents commonly working. High taxes fund a welfare system that includes programs for families and children
What do Norwegians do for recreation?
Norwegians love the outdoors, enjoying skiing, hiking, swimming, fishing, and sailing, and often spend time with friends at home. Kids play soccer, handball, and gymnastics on sports teams, and enjoy swimming and skiing Many people own cabins in remote places reached by hiking The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is one of the world's most difficult ski jumps The Birkebeiner is a 58K endurance ski race near Lillehammer, first held in 1932 Norwegians often visit each other at home since eating at restaurants can be expensive
What is the capital of Norway?
Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway, serving as the country's political, economic, and cultural hub. Situated at the head of the Oslofjord in southeastern Norway, it is the nation's busiest and most populous city. Oslo is home to the national parliament (the Storting), the royal palace, and major museums, and it consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities thanks to its cleanliness, abundant parklands, and proximity to wilderness areas.
Where is Norway located?
Norway is located in Northern Europe, occupying the western and northern portions of the Scandinavian Peninsula. It lies along the North Atlantic Ocean and the Arctic Ocean, giving it one of the longest coastlines in the world, famously punctuated by deep glacial fjords. The country stretches from temperate southern latitudes well above the Arctic Circle, meaning parts of Norway experience the midnight sun in summer and polar night in winter.
What countries border Norway?
Norway shares land borders with three countries: Sweden to the east (its longest border), Finland to the northeast, and Russia to the far northeast. To the west and north, Norway faces the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, and the Arctic Ocean. The country's borders reflect centuries of Scandinavian political history, including the unions with Denmark and Sweden that shaped the modern Norwegian state before independence was achieved in 1905.
What is the predominant religion in Norway?
Evangelical Lutheranism is the dominant religion in Norway, adhered to by approximately 86 percent of the population, largely through membership in the Church of Norway. About 10 percent of Norwegians identify with no religion or an unknown affiliation, while the remaining roughly 3 percent belong to other Protestant denominations or the Roman Catholic Church. Christianity first took root in Norway when King Olav Tryggvason converted in 994, and the faith spread across the kingdom over the following decades.
What currency does Norway use?
Norway's official currency is the Norwegian Krone, with the ISO code NOK. The krone (meaning "crown") is subdivided into 100 øre and has been in use since 1875, when Norway joined the Scandinavian Monetary Union. Despite being a member of the European Economic Area, Norway is not part of the European Union and therefore does not use the euro, retaining the krone as a symbol of its economic and political independence.
What languages are spoken in Norway?
Norway has two official written standards of Norwegian: Bokmål (literally "book tongue"), which is the more widely used form, and Nynorsk ("New Norwegian"), which was constructed in the 19th century to reflect rural dialects and assert a distinct Norwegian identity apart from Danish influence. Both are taught in schools and used in government. The indigenous Sami people, Norway's earliest known inhabitants and its largest minority group, maintain their own distinct Sami languages, which hold official status in certain northern municipalities.
What is the geography of Norway like?
Norway's terrain is dramatically rugged, dominated by mountains, high plateaus, and the celebrated fjords — deep, glacier-carved inlets that indent the western coastline for hundreds of kilometers. Much of the interior is covered by the Scandinavian Mountain Range, with large areas lying above the treeline. Forest, tundra, and glaciers account for significant portions of the landscape. The country's elongated shape means its geography ranges from relatively mild coastal climates in the south and west to subarctic and arctic conditions in the far north.
What is Norway known for?
Norway is known globally for its fjords, its vast offshore petroleum reserves that have made it one of the world's wealthiest nations, and its consistently top-ranked standard of living and human development. The country is a leading exporter of oil, natural gas, and seafood, particularly salmon. Norway's Viking heritage draws visitors to world-class museums in Oslo, while Trondheim's Nidaros Cathedral — built over the grave of Saint Olav Haraldsson — remains a major pilgrimage and heritage site. Norway is also celebrated for pioneering polar exploration and for the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded annually in Oslo.

Last reviewed 2026

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