Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway, situated at the head of the Oslofjord. A dynamic Scandinavian capital blending Viking heritage with state-of-the-art architecture, Oslo offers world-class museums, a vibrant waterfront, lush forests, and some of Europe's finest dining.
Do's and don'ts
Quick guide to local norms.
Do
- Greet people warmly and learn a few local phrases.
- Respect religious and historic sites.
- Dress modestly when visiting places of worship.
- Ask permission before photographing individuals.
Don't
- Raise your voice in public — it's considered rude.
- Touch people on the head or point with your feet in religious settings.
- Refuse hospitality without a polite explanation.
- Wear revealing clothing in conservative areas.
Etiquette by setting
How to navigate everyday situations.
- Greetings
- A firm handshake and eye contact is the standard greeting in formal situations. Among friends, embracing is common. First names are almost always used.
- Punctuality
- Punctuality is highly valued. Arriving on time for appointments, dinner invitations, and events is expected.
- Tipping
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Round up or add 10% for good service. Unlike many countries, service staff are paid living wages so tips are a bonus.
- Queuing
- Norwegians queue orderly and patiently. Cutting in line is considered very rude.
- Shoes In Homes
- It is customary and expected to remove your shoes when entering a Norwegian home. Look for shoe racks at the entrance.
- Dining
- Wait to be told where to sit at a dinner invitation. Say 'Takk for maten' (Thank you for the food) after a meal. It is polite to try everything offered.
- Public Transport
- Quiet on public transport is the norm. Phone conversations should be brief and quiet. Give up seats to elderly and pregnant passengers.
- Smoking
- Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces and many outdoor areas. Ask before smoking near others.
- Photography
- Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Norwegian people, while not hostile, appreciate being asked.
Religion & spirituality
Understanding faith in Oslo.
Context
Main Religion: Church of Norway (Lutheran Protestant) is the historical state church, though membership has declined
Secular Society: Oslo is a largely secular city. Religion plays little role in daily public life.
Religious Sites:
- Name
- Oslo Cathedral (Oslo Domkirke)
- Address
- Karl Johans gate 11, 0154 Oslo
- Note
- The main Cathedral, regularly open to visitors
- Name
- Gamle Aker Church
- Address
- Akersbakken 26, 0172 Oslo
- Note
- Oslo's oldest building (c.1080), still used for services
- Name
- Central Jamaat-e Ahl-e Sunnat (Central Mosque)
- Address
- Åkebergveien 26, 0650 Oslo
- Note
- Largest mosque in Oslo