Language: Bokmal and Nynorsk Norwegian are the official languages of Norway. English is widely spoken. Recognised minority languages include Sami and Finnish.
Local time: +1 hour GMT
Area: 323,802km2
Population: 4,644,457
Capital: Oslo
Currency: The monetary unit is the Norwegian Kroner (NOK).
Eating out: Norway has a reputation as one of the most expensive of European holiday destinations. This statement is true for a large majority of everyday items – including food and drink – however with a wide selection of restaurants, cafes and pizzerias there is an eatery to suit all budgets.
Many restaurants offer a ‘Dish of the day’ menu at lunchtime. It costs approximately 80-100nok per person for a main course and a drink. Often this price includes bread and butter and a coffee.
Average prices for an evening meal are: Starter from 80nok; Main course from 150nok; Dessert from 70nok and a glass of wine or beer 60nok.
Right of public access: The Norwegian countryside is open to everyone. In principle, this means that there is a public right of way on all uncultivated land on property that is not in the immediate vicinity of the owner's residence. However, care must be shown at all times so that animals and plants are not disturbed or harmed.
For special interests:
Nature lovers: Norway consists of large areas of unspoilt land. In fact, 30% of the land is covered by forests, rivers and lakes and nearly 50% of the country is given over to mountain ranges. The fjord region and the Lofoten islands boast spectacular scenery and are a must for any nature lover.
Ornithologists: The Lofoten islands attract a wide variety of bird species including white tailed eagles, razorbill, guillemot, cormorant, kittiwake and puffin. In addition, the island of Runde, close to Ålesund, serves as a nesting ground for half a million sea birds.
History and culture: UNESCO has inscribed 7 sites in Norway to the World Heritage List. The Fjord region is home to 4 sites: The Hanseatic Wharf of Bryggen in Bergen, Urnes Stave Church and the Geirangerfjord and Naeroyfjord.
Temperature Chart >
