Broke Backpacking In Norway: The Ultimate Guide

Infamous for steep prices, Norway is the last place you’d think a broke backpacker would want to go. But nestled in between the majestic fjords, snow-capped mountains, and vibrant cities lies this little secret: you can have a broke budget and still make the most of Norway’s stunning natural beauty. The secret to affordable adventure? Camping! Norway also has a number of free campsites, often in fantastic landscapes, meaning you can pitch up beside a tranquil lake, beneath the stars, or at the foot of a towering mountain. Camping provides the key to peace and tranquility to uncover pristine and unforgettable wilderness, vibrant cities filled with color and culture, and real history, along with warm and friendly locals. Join me on an unforgettable journey of Norway’s breathtaking landscapes and the thrill of broke backpacking through one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

How to get there:

From Sweden

By Bus

Take Sweden’s Vy bus from Stockholm (approx. 7-8 hours, $20-30) or Gothenburg (approx. 4-5 hours, $15-25) to Oslo.

By Train

SJ trains connect Stockholm to Oslo (approx. 5-6 hours, $50-70).

From Denmark

By Bus:

FlixBus and Vy operate from Copenhagen (approx. 8-9 hours, $20-30) to Oslo.

By Train/Bus Combo:

Take the train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg, then connect to Oslo via bus or train.

From Finland

By Bus:

OnniBus and Matkahuolto operate from Helsinki (approx. 24 hours, $40-60) with multiple changes.

By Train/Bus Combo:

Take the train from Helsinki to Stockholm, then connect to Oslo.

From Russia

Infrequent bus services connect Murmansk to Tromsø (approx. 24 hours, $30-50).

When to go:

Best Time for Broke Backpackers: September to October

Mild weather (10-15°C/50-59°F)
Lower prices (accommodation: $15-30/night)
Fewer crowds
Accessible attractions
Northern Lights start appearing

Seasonal Breakdown

Spring (March-May)

Pros: fewer tourists, lower prices
Cons: unpredictable weather

Summer (June-August)

Pros: warm weather, midnight sun
Cons: peak tourist season, higher prices

Autumn (September-November)

Pros: mild weather, foliage, fewer crowds
Cons: some attractions closed

Winter (December-February)

Pros: Northern Lights, skiing
Cons: harsh weather, limited daylight

Seasonal Activities

Summer

Hiking
Camping
Kayaking

Winter

Skiing
Snowshoeing
Northern Lights

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Oslo
Explore city center (free)
Visit Vigeland Sculpture Park (free)
Oslo Opera House (free)
Day 2: Oslo
Bygdøy scenic bus ride ($5)
Viking Ship Museum ($10)
Day 3: Bergen
Explore Bryggen (free)
Mount Fløyen scenic bus ride ($10)

1-Week Itinerary

Day 1-2: Oslo
City center
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Oslo Opera House
Day 3-4: Bergen
Bryggen
Mount Fløyen
Fish Market (free)
Day 5-6: Ålesund
Art Nouveau architecture
Fjellstua Viewpoint (free)
Day 7: Return to Oslo

2-Week Itinerary

Day 1-3: Oslo
City center
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Oslo Opera House
Day 4-6: Bergen
Bryggen
Mount Fløyen
Fish Market
Day 7-8: Ålesund
Art Nouveau architecture
Fjellstua Viewpoint
Day 9-10: Tromsø
Arctic Cathedral
Polar Museum ($10)
Day 11-14: Return to Oslo

1-Month Itinerary

Week 1: Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund
Explore cities, scenic bus rides
Week 2: Tromsø, Senja Island
Arctic landscapes
Week 3: Lofoten Islands
Islands, hiking
Week 4: Return to Oslo

3-Month Itinerary

Month 1: Southern Norway (Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund)
Explore cities
Month 2: Northern Norway (Tromsø, Senja Island, Lofoten Islands)
Arctic landscapes
Month 3: National parks (Jotunheimen, Rondane)
Hiking, camping

Transportation:

Norway’s efficient public transportation system makes exploring the country effortless. Here’s your guide:

Types of Public Transportation

Buses

Vy (national)
FlixBus (international)
Local buses (city/region-specific)

Trains

Vy (national)
SJ (Sweden-Norway)
NSB (regional)

Ferries

Hurtigruten (coastal)
Fjord1 (fjord crossings)
Local ferries

Metro/Trams

Oslo Metro
Bergen Light Rail
Trondheim Tram

Travel Cards

Vy’s Norway Pass
Oslo’s Oslo Pass
Bergen’s Bergen Card

Routes and Schedules

National Routes

Oslo-Bergen (bus/train)
Oslo-Tromsø (bus/train)
Oslo-Ålesund (bus)

Regional Routes

Bergen-Flåm (bus/ferry)
Tromsø-Senja Island (bus/ferry)
Oslo-Lofoten Islands (train/bus/ferry)

Prices

Bus

$2.50-10 (short-distance)
$20-50 (long-distance)

Train

$20-50 (short-distance)
$50-100 (long-distance)

Ferry

$10-30 (short-distance)
$20-50 (long-distance)

Discounts

Student

20-30% off

Senior

20-30% off

Group

10-20% off

Apps and Websites

National bus/train operator
App/website

Entur

Public transportation planner
App/website

Ruter

Oslo’s public transportation
App/website

Top things to do:

Oslo

Vigeland Sculpture Park (free)
Oslo Opera House (free)
Bygdøy scenic bus ride ($5)
Viking Ship Museum ($10)
Explore Grünerløkka neighborhood (free)
Oslo Cathedral (free)
Munch Museum ($10)
Akershus Fortress (free)
Botanical Garden (free)
Oslo Harbour (free)

Bergen

Explore Bryggen (free)
Mount Fløyen scenic bus ride ($10)
Fish Market (free)
Bergen Cathedral (free)
Løvstakken hike (free)
Edvard Grieg Museum ($10)
Bergen Art Museum ($10)
Ulriken mountain hike (free)
Bergen Aquarium ($15)
Gamlehaugen (free)

Ålesund

Art Nouveau architecture (free)
Fjellstua Viewpoint (free)
Ålesund Church (free)
Sunnmøre Museum ($10)
Hike to Saksa peak (free)
Brosundet Canal (free)
Ålesund Maritime Museum ($10)
Runde Island bird sanctuary ($10)

Tromsø

Arctic Cathedral (free)
Polar Museum ($10)
Tromsø Cathedral (free)
Fjellheisen cable car ($20)
Northern Lights tour ($50-100)
Tromsø Museum ($10)
Arctic Botanical Garden (free)
Whale watching tour ($80-150)

Lofoten Islands

Explore Svolvær (free)
Hike to Ryten peak (free)
Visit Reine village (free)
Lofoten Islands kayak tour ($50-100)
Beach relaxation (free)
Hike to Kvalvika beach (free)
Visit Nusfjord village (free)
Lofoten War Memorial Museum ($10)

Flåm

Scenic fjord village (free)
Waterfalls (free)
Flåm Church (free)
Fjord safari ($50-100)
Hike to Brekkefossen waterfall (free)
Visit Flåm Museum ($10)
Stegastein Viewpoint (free)

Stavanger

Old town (free)
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) hike ($10-20)
Stavanger Cathedral (free)
Museum of Archaeology ($10)
Explore Øvre Holmegate neighborhood (free)
Stavanger Harbour (free)
Ovre Strandgate street (free)

Geiranger

Fjord cruise ($50-100)
Waterfalls (free)
Geiranger Church (free)
Hike to Seven Sisters waterfall (free)
Explore Geiranger village (free)
Geiranger Fjord Centre ($10)

Sognefjord

Scenic boat ride ($20-50)
Explore Urnes Stave Church ($10)
Hike to Molden peak (free)
Visit Lærdal village (free)
Relax on fjord beaches (free)
Sognefjord Museum ($10)

Kristiansand

Old town (free)
Kristiansand Cathedral (free)
Bystranda beach (free)
Kristiansand Zoo ($15)
Museum of Art ($10)

Trondheim

Nidaros Cathedral (free)
Trondheim Old Town (free)
Sverresborg Museum ($10)
Kristiansten Fortress (free)
Trondheim Harbour (free)

Food:

Only the breathtaking landscapes of Norway can compare to its great and varied food: from thick, heavy meat stews to fresh seafood, from traditional baked goods to modern fusion dishes-the world of food in Norway is a real treat for every foodie. The fine food of Norway has been well affected by the maritime history and harsh climate of this country, where traditionally it has been about getting something into the soul and into the stomach.
It includes filling dishes in traditionally rich flavors, such as Kjøttkaker or meatballs, Fårikål, which is a stew of mutton and cabbage. Other favorite dishes include Lapskaus, or the salted beef and potato stew that shows how such delicious dishes can be made out of simple ingredients. Many of these foods are still consumed today with boiled potatoes and vegetables.
With a long coastline, Norway has plenty of fresh seafood items. From succulent salmon and halibut to succulent shrimp and mussels, there’s variety galore. The most famous is the Fiskegrateng or fish casserole-layers of fish, potatoes, and cheese. Try a seafood buffet to sample the day’s freshest catch.
Bread available in Norwegian bakeries is a treat, especially with a cup of coffee. Skillingsbolle or sweet buns are soft and fluffy, while Krumkaker crunches agreeably as wafers. Fattigmann, or poor man’s cookies, may be humble in origin but sweet nonetheless. These bakery products make for ideal snacks or accompaniments to other foodstuffs.
Contemporary Norwegian cuisine is a combination of traditional ingredients combined with international flavors to form truly innovative dishes. Restaurants like Maaemo and Lysverket have been in the limelight for using local organic ingredients to produce distinctive dishes. Foragers, preserving techniques, and innovative presentations are inspiring new experiments by chefs.
Food plays a big role in Norwegian culture, and most gatherings are a time for eating. Traditional holidays like Jul, or Christmas, and Syttende Mai, or Constitution Day, have special foods that are passed down through generations. Food brings families together, sharing tales and laughter over meals.
Different parts of Norway have their own food traditions. Ålesund is famous for seafood, while Bergen is known for Raspeball, a potato dumpling. The Arctic cuisine of Tromsø features reindeer and cloudberry desserts that reflect the country’s adaptability. Each region proudly shares flavors and invites exploration.
Restaurants have everything from the very inexpensive cafeteria to the exclusive eatery. For a more traditional meal, Kaffebrenneriet has warm surroundings that are typical of Norwegian restaurants, while Delicatessen is a modern restaurant with more innovative dishes. Food courts also abound with choice, and street food is becoming increasingly trendy.
Food shopping is relatively inexpensive, in particular at supermarkets like Coop and Kiwi that carry many local products in produce, meats, and dairy. Check the items that are on special to see what is in season or for ingredients of traditional Norwegian dishes. Bakeries and cafes also have a lot of different bread and pastry options.
Budget travelers can save by making their own meals or buying snacks and sandwiches at local bakeries or cafes. Eating out is very expensive, but there are plenty of affordable alternatives. Consider buying ingredients from local markets or supermarkets.

Culture:

The beautiful landscape of Norway is ornamented with a rich culture influenced by hundreds of centuries of history, inshore, and fishing traditions, alongside the harsh climate. Every sphere of life, from quaint cabins to larger towns and cities, is touched with Norwegian culture. Norwegian culture is deeply etched with traditions whose roots are buried beneath the Viking times and folklore.
Midsummer events celebrate the summer solstice. Syttende Mai is Constitution Day for Norway. Folklore dancing and music events occur like Øya and Mørkridsdans. The key values in Norway are equality, modesty, and social bonding. Consequently, Norway is so full of politeness, respect, and genuineness. Ideas like “hygge” and “allemannsretten” show that comfort, being in nature, and sharing space are integral parts of Norway.
Family ties are strong, and the gathering of the family for meals and festivities is an integral part of the family life. Community is very important, with neighbors and other locals knowing one another well in their neighborhoods and towns. Norway has a rich literary history and has fostered famous writers such as Henrik Ibsen and Jon Fosse. The artistic scene is alive in this country, with artists such as Edvard Munch and Gustav Vigeland. The music spans from classical to modern-day artists like Grieg to Kygo.
Traditional Norwegian music features the fiddle and accordion, and folk dances like the polka and waltz are still popular. Contemporary music runs the gamut from rock to electronic music. Norwegian food is all about the ocean and the climate. Classic comfort foods include Kjøttkaker and Fårikål, along with fresh seafood-particularly in the coastal parts of the country-end.
It highly values education, thus helping spur innovation through universities and research institutions. Sustainability, technology, and design in Norway present an entrepreneurial spirit in character. Regions boast unique flavors; the art nouveau architecture in Ålesund gives way to the vibrant music scene of Bergen. Tromsø showcases Arctic culture, while Oslo boasts a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
They are also expected to uphold the cultural etiquette of Norway: punctuality, modesty, and care for the environment. A little basic vocabulary in Norwegian is enjoyed, such as hei, meaning hello, and takk, meaning thank you. Today’s Norway incorporates tradition into modernism, embracing diversity and globalization. The centers are urban, while the countryside maintains its traditional way of life.
From fjords to festivals, Norway’s cultural heritage is closely connected with daily life, reflecting history, values, and the natural environment. Enjoy the warmth of the Norwegian welcome, the vibrant cultural scene, and social cohesion at its best. For more information on culture and events, see the official website of the Norwegian Tourist Board. Lonely Planet Norway Travel Guide gives thorough insight into Norwegian culture.
Norway’s cultural landscape has changed with the times, and today’s artists are still breaking new ground. A commitment to social welfare, education, and environmental sustainability speaks volumes about the values of this Scandinavian country. Diverse Norway shines from Sami culture in the north to coastal villages.

Discover Norway’s cities, each one with its own cultural personality. Oslo’s Vigeland Sculpture Park is home to iconic art, while Bergen’s Bryggen wharf is steeped in tradition. Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral is a bold modern landmark.
The traditions in Norway weave together a strong sense of community and nature. Midsummer bonfires give unity, while hiking and skiing create immense connections with the outdoors. Generally, all three factors of past, present, and nature interlace in the cultural tapestry of Norway.
Discover Norway’s vibrant culture by understanding its history, art, music, and traditions. The warmth of the people in Norway provides an enriching experience with the rich cultural heritage left within you.

Hostel situation:

Embracing the Unexpected: Norway’s Hostel Scene for Broke Backpackers
Panoramic views and notoriously expensive hostels make Norway a challenge for broke backpackers like me. But going out of one’s comfort zone and diving right into the cheapest of hostels gives the most unique, crazy, and amazing experiences.
Budget hostels in Norway aren’t just budget-friendly spots to lay one’s head; they’re an experience. One fully exposes oneself to chance meetings and memories that will last a lifetime by allowing oneself to get thrown into the whims of fortune with the cheapest. To be able to make bookings for the most inexpensive hostels, one needs to be prepared for flexibility and spontaneity. One might end up sleeping in a room full of other adrenaline-driven people from all walks of life or strumming guitars in the communal lounge.
It’s a new surprise each day, from the quirky decoration to the makeshift common room with its character. Travelers may find cozy attic retreats or improvised cinemas in their hidden corners. Cheap hostels create an atmosphere among the travelers with shared kitchens and lounges that become story-and-information exchange centers. Lifetime friends emerge from the coincidence of being there.
Other budget hostels are made out of unusual conversions, such as schools, churches, or factories, which inherently make for an adventure in themselves. Budget hostels in Norway give insight into the local culture because it allows travelers to interact with the locals, learn their traditions, and find secret spots that one wouldn’t find in a guidebook.
Safety and cleanliness, too, become the things most appreciated when priorities are in order of cost first. Keep a balance with affordability and comfort through research and reviews. For the really broke traveler, Norway’s hostel scene becomes one big adventure within an adventure. By surrendering to the unknown and embracing affordability, travelers find that they can bring hidden treasures home along with memories not easily forgotten.
Visit Norway’s official tourism website has listings and travel advice. Lonely Planet’s Norway Travel Guide will give you the budget accommodation low-down. In Norway’s budget hostels, the journey is destination in itself. Every new encounter and every small surprise make for sweet memories in these wonderful accommodations.
From the vibrant cities to the breathtaking landscapes, Norway is a treasure waiting to be explored. The icing on the cake, however, lies in how this adventure is complemented by the hostel scene. Each stop, from Oslo’s urban charm to the scenic beauty of Bergen, offers unique experiences with its hostels. Travelers, by embracing these irregularities of budget hostels, indulge themselves in both the culture and natural beauty of Norway.
Far from cheap lodging, the hostel scene in Norway is a segue into immersive experiences, lifetime connections, and memories that forever will be remembered. This is how travelers get recommendations on hidden cafes, local artisans, and secluded hiking trails through hostels.
Budget hostels are helpful in forging friendships among travelers through communal atmosphere building. Sharing meals and trips together forms long-lasting bonds. The culture of the hostel scene in Norway celebrates diversity, welcoming travelers from all over the world.
Budget hostels mean flexibility and spontaneity. Changing traveling plans-the detours-become memories to remember. The natural beauty of Norway can be seen from several hostel windows: beautiful fjords, mountains, and waterfalls. Many hostel locations are easy to access for hiking trails, beaches, and great viewpoints.
Authenticity of experience is found in Norway’s budget hostels. Local owners speak of stories, traditions, and insider information that only enhances the travel experience.
Simplicity meets charm in the most basic hostels in Norway. Basic amenities are all that are required to create the way for cozy atmospheres where people can share deep, meaningful connections.
Freedom, adventure, and connection from the point of view of a poor backpacker Norway’s scene of hostels is all about. Unpredictability becomes excitement, and affordability opens up unforgettable experiences.

Nightlife:

Beautiful fjords and a pulsating culture make Norway even more interesting outside of daylight hours. Everything from enlivening pubs to energetic clubs, each city turns into a hub for pure entertainment where fun and tranquility go on till the break of dawn, with basically endless choices to socialize.
The capital, Oslo, sets the pace with urban panache, from swanky cocktail bars to underground music venues showcasing up-and-coming talent. In Bergen, picturesque streets ring out with the sound of live music and laughter, while in Tromsø, the Arctic nightlife pulses, calling out to adventurers and party animals alike. From subtle gatherings to energetic dance floors, a range of options in nightlife caters to varied tastes throughout Norway. Locals and travelers alike come together, sharing tales and laughter that create lasting bonds.
When it’s summer, Norway’s midnight sun means parties go right into the morning hours as revelers dance under the eternal sunshine. During winter, cozy bars and clubs offer warmth and cameraderie from the cold, offering respite. From indie rock to electronic dance music, Norway’s vibrant music scene evolves with local and international acts. Each city boasts its own unique venues, which means every night might just be a different kind of adventure.
Weekends mean festivals and events celebrating Norway’s culture and creativity, outdoor concerts, and fireworks that light up summer skies. Norway’s nightlife is safe and inclusive, ensuring everyone feels welcome. Pleasant nights are a product of responsible drinking concepts. Exploring Norway’s nightlife requires a little flexibility and spontaneity to uncover the best spots-from the most secluded, smoky little jazz clubs tucked away, playing impromptu jam sessions showcasing the rich musical heritage of the nation.
Make sure to join in on pre-party gatherings, a.k.a. “forpiknik”-casual meetups before a night out that create a setting for bonding and being social. Nightlife in Norway effortlessly merges into nature; stargaze from mountain peaks or dance under the Northern Lights, taking in the breathtaking view.
Check out Visit Norway, the official tourism website, for nightlife or event calendars, and Lonely Planet’s Norway Travel Guide for the insider information needed to get around the scene. Norway’s nightlife is an adventure worth taking. Allow the rhythm of pulsating beats to engulf you in mystery as you discover it under the Scandinavian sky.
As travelers delve into Norway’s nightlife, they find a soul created by music, laughter, and camaraderie. Each night turns into a story to be shared, memories etched forever. To the ones who come with open minds and hearts, the nightlife of Norway will be so much more than just entertainment-it’ll be a gateway toward connecting with people, exploring other cultures, and finding one’s own self.
As the day gets dark, Norway’s cityscape changes, and one catches a glimpse of its secrets and surprises, be it in hip areas or narrow streets, but tucked away at every turn and bend, there is something that invites one into discovering the places. It is at night that Norway really wakes up and calls out to the travelers to give themselves to its enchantment, loving unknown hearts.

Backpacking Norway costs:

Daily Expenses

Accommodation: Look for hostels, around $30-40 per night ¹. Camping is also an option, especially in national parks.
Food: Opt for supermarket shopping and cooking in hostels, approximately $15-25 per day.
Transportation: Use public transport, buses, and trains, costing around $10-30 per journey.
Attractions: Prioritize free activities like hiking and exploring nature.

Weekly Expenses

Attractions: Allocate around $50-100 per week for occasional paid attractions.
Accommodation: Average $210-280 per week for hostels.
Food: Budget around $105-175 per week for supermarket shopping.
Transportation: Expect around $70-210 per week for public transport.

Conclusion:

As the journey through Norway comes to a close, the lessons learned and memories gained will linger. Broke backpacking in Norway demands flexibility, resilience and creativity, but yields unparalleled rewards. From breathtaking landscapes to warm hospitality, Norway’s essence seeps into every moment.

Embracing budget-friendly options unlocks hidden gems: cozy hostels, local eateries and offbeat attractions. Nature’s majesty – fjords, mountains and Northern Lights – remains forever etched in memory.

Norway’s pricey reputation dissolves with resourcefulness and planning. Every saved krone fuels further exploration. Budget-conscious travelers discover authentic experiences: impromptu jam sessions, communal kitchens and chance encounters.

The Norwegian spirit – warm, welcoming and adventurous – resonates deeply. Strangers become friends over campfires and coffee.

For broke backpackers, Norway’s allure transcends cost; it’s an odyssey of self-discovery, growth and connection. So come, immerse yourself in Norway’s beauty, and let the journey redefine your boundaries.