Accommodation in Norway

Overview of the offer

Norway has a good range of accommodation options, and what’s more, they are of high quality. Reflecting the country itself, you’ll find plenty of "nature accommodation"—including numerous campsites, chalets, fisherman’s cabins, and even converted lighthouses. On the other hand, hotels are relatively scarce and tend to cater more to business travellers than tourists, often being overshadowed by youth hostels (or similar) in terms of popularity with holidaymakers. As with many things in Scandinavia, there are various discounts and packages available that can help you save money.

Hotels

Hotels aren’t particularly abundant in Norway and are generally aimed at business travellers rather than tourists, with prices to match. They tend to be high-end and comfortable, with double rooms starting at around 100 €–150 per night, including breakfast. Most belong to chains that offer packages, as well as special family deals. Discounts are available on weekends year-round and in the summer, which might seem surprising but makes sense given that the usual clientele is largely business-based.

Youth Hostels

There are around a hundred youth hostels (or similar) in Norway (see list), catering to all types of travellers, including families. Some are only open in the summer, until mid-August. Overall, the quality is good, but they remain relatively expensive (20 €–30 per person, sometimes including breakfast), even with the Federation card that gives a 10% discount. Still, for non-drivers in cities, they can be a viable option. As is often the case in hostels, sleeping bags aren’t allowed, and a sheet or sleeping bag liner is mandatory—you can rent one on-site (though it’s pricey).

Camping

Despite the sometimes damp climate and cool nights, camping is by far the best—and most budget-friendly—option for summer travel in Norway, though it’s best to have good equipment and, ideally, your own vehicle to reach campsites or the best spots.

At campsites

You’ll find around 800 campsites across the country (see list), but most are only open in season, roughly from June to the end of August. Norwegian campsites are generally well-equipped, with hot water (sometimes paid showers), shared kitchens, laundries, and other amenities. What’s more, they’re relatively affordable compared to other types of accommodation.

For a tent pitch, car, and two people, expect to pay around 10 €–30 per night, depending on the location (tourist hotspots or not) and the level of comfort. The cheapest campsites are usually those outside tourist areas or cities, sometimes just a few kilometres away from pricier ones.

Many sites also offer rentals of bungalows, mobile homes, chalets, or huts—more or less equipped—for around 3–5 people. Prices start at around 30 € per night, but can be much higher depending on the category, location, and comfort level.

Wild camping

Alongside official campsites, wild camping is a widespread and perfectly legal activity in Norway. It stems from a tradition—now a right—that states "everyone has the right to access nature and the countryside, including natural parks." However, there’s an unspoken rule to avoid private land without permission, cultivated areas, and to respect others and the environment. In short, the opportunity exists across all regions, including parks and hiking areas.

While wild camping is generally safe (there are even "wild camping areas" if you don’t want to be alone), it’s still best to have your own transport. Sometimes, you’ll need to travel several kilometres—especially along steep fjords—to find a spot to pitch your tent. But once you do, you’ll just have to enjoy the setting and the experience...

Staying with locals

Other options

Farms and rural guesthouses

Chalets

As in many Nordic countries, you can also stay in small chalets or even fisherman’s cabins. These are very popular with holidaymakers. You’ll find them in the mountains, forests, by the sea, fjords, lakes, and in the countryside. They’re also common on campsites. You can rent them by the night or week, with varying levels of comfort, equipment, and space. Expect to pay at least 30 € per night for a chalet. In the end, this option lets those who aren’t camping fans get close to nature while sleeping in a "solid" structure without spending too much.

Lighthouses

This is a unique type of accommodation—around sixty lighthouses (or more often, keeper’s houses) have been converted along the coast to welcome guests for one or more nights.

Apartments and villas

Which accommodation to choose?

Without a doubt, camping is by far the best option in season and the most budget-friendly, especially if you take advantage of wild camping, which is fully permitted in the country. Given the climate, it’s obviously best to have good, suitable gear and, practically speaking, to be self-sufficient in terms of transport to avoid any hassle. For those who aren’t fans of camping, renting a chalet or staying in a youth hostel can be a good alternative.