Norwegian Culture Quirks and Social Norms
If you are an exchange student coming to Norway, there are some cultural quirks and aspects you should be aware of. But not to worry! We have listed the most important ones here! Think of this as your crash course, so you can arrive in Bergen feeling a little more prepared (and a lot less confused).
Norwegians may seem strange at first...but don´t be alarmed, you`ll be strange soon enough.
Social behavior & communication
1. Silence is not awkward.
It is comfortable and often appreciated. Norwegians don´t really smalltalk either.
2. Norwegians become more sociable when drinking alcohol.
The usual reserved behavior often disappears, and suddenly everyone is your best friend.
3. Hiking has its own rules and norms.
Norwegians can seem quite closed off or dismissive, except when hiking. On the trail, everyone is suddenly friendly.
4. Personal space is very important to Norwegians.
Don’t sit next to someone on public transportation unless there is no other free seating or space to stand. When it rains, Norwegians often prefer to stand in the rain rather than taking shelter in a bus stop, just to avoid standing too close to other people. In short: we love our personal space.
5. “Vi må ta en kaffe en dag”, does not mean “We have to get a coffee sometime”.
It is often just a polite way to end a conversation on a friendly note, rather than an actual invitation.
6. Janteloven is an important cultural concept.
It reflects a social norm where the collective is valued over the individual. In short, you are not supposed to stand out, boast, or think you are better than others. While the concept is old, its influence can still be felt today, especially in expectations of humility.
Daily life habits & routines
7. Take off your shoes indoors. Always.
Most homes use slippers or wool socks instead; shoes are not worn inside.
8. Friday equals fredagstaco.
Tacos on Friday are a strong Norwegian tradition, although they may look different from what you are used to.
9. Lørdagsgodt (Saturday-candy) is sacred.
It´s a tradition where kids (and let´s be honest, adults too) only eat candy and sweets on Saturday. It is Norway’s way of saying : discipline first, sugar later.
10. “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlige klær” (There is no bad weather, only bad clothes).
This is a philosophy we apply to our daily life, hiking or other outdoor activities. You will grow acustom to this, especially if you come to Bergen.
Hiking is a “no bad weather” activity. As we say: “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær” (There is no bad weather, only bad clothes).
11. Almost everything is expensive in Norway.
There´s not much more to add.
12. Wine-monopoly
Alcohol stronger than 4,7% is strictly controlled and only sold through state-owned stores called Vinmonopolet (Wine-monopoly).
Cultural mindset
13. Koselig is a core cultural concept.
There is no direct English translation, but it describes something warm, cozy and pleasant. It´s like sitting inside on a rainy day with candles and a blanket. It´s not just a concept, but a feeling.
If you want to learn about Norway? We have many articles about Norwegian traditions and history, Norwegian Cuisine, or how we celebrate the 17th of May (Norways Consitution day).
What is important in Norwegian norms and culture?
Norwegians are often more reserved than people in many other cultures, especially around strangers. However, they usually become much more social over time.
Norwegian culture generally values privacy, calmness, and respecting other people’s space.
Janteloven is a cultural idea emphasizing humility, equality, and not thinking you are better than others.
Outdoor life is a major part of Norwegian identity and culture. Hiking is both a social activity and a lifestyle.
Koselig describes a warm, cozy, and comfortable atmosphere that is highly valued in Norwegian culture.
