Norway is the nature lover’s playground.
This magical country features endless miles of untouched fjords, valleys, glaciers, and waterfalls.
The country has a rich history, and its residents are proud to share their culture with the millions of tourists that visit each year.
This majestic Scandinavian country consistently makes top ten lists and is considered one of the safest countries in the world to visit.
Crime rates in Norway are very low, even in the major cities.
The biggest risks one faces are in nature.
Tourists are encouraged to follow all safety signs and maintain awareness at all times.
Tsunamis are a risk in some regions, so it is important to research the areas you plan to visit ahead of time.
Are you planning a trip to Norway?
We have put together a list of Norway’s safest cities to help you in your planning.
Although, we feel confident in saying that you will feel safe wherever you roam in this picturesque country.
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10 Safest Cities in Norway
1. Geiranger
Situated at the head of the magical Geirangerfjord is the small town of Geiranger.
Since 1869, Geiranger has welcomed the guests of large cruise liners, as they dock for an afternoon off the boat.
Guests can enjoy shopping, take a boat out on the water, or explore the Waterfall Walk.
This must-see attraction features 327 stairs from the town center to the Norwegian Fjord Centre.
The walk takes you along Storfossen’s rushing waters and is a wondrous experience.
With approximately 200 residents, Geiranger is a small, tight-knit community.
While you are safe from crime, nature can be unforgiving.
Take care when walking about, particularly when daylight fades.
The moment you see this region for yourself, you will understand why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Voss
Dubbed Norway’s extreme sports capital, Voss offers a unique and exciting experience for everyone.
Each year, Voss’ 15,000 residents welcome thousands of travelers eager to enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Voss is not just for extreme sports enthusiasts.
This sustainable destination has a rich history that they are proud to share.
Here, you can dine on classic Norwegian cuisine and laugh with the merrymakers dressed as trolls in the town center.
Like most cities in Norway, you are more likely to injure yourself on a hike than encounter crime in this quaint town.
3. Kristiansand
The harbor town of Kristiansand is the largest city in Southern Norway.
This city spreads out over three islands and is known for its dried cod (Klippfisk).
Norwegians flock to this region in the summer, where they enjoy its gorgeous beaches and perfect weather.
Throughout Kristiansand, you’ll find historic buildings, many dating back to the 15th century.
This unique town is also great for observing Norwegian fishermen at work.
With its low crime rate, Kristiansand offers a safe setting for the family to learn about Norwegian traditions.
4. Flåm
Flåm is a tiny village of 400 residents, located in southwestern Norway.
It is known for its iconic views of the region’s massive fjords, valleys, and waterfalls.
Visitors can enjoy nature as they hike through Flåm Valley, or take in the views by train.
Flåm is also home to the Flåm Church, a wooden church constructed in 1667.
5. Loen
A small town with just 450 residents, Loen offers majestic views everywhere you turn.
There, you will see some of the oldest farmsteads in Norway.
You can enjoy the turquoise waters of the glacier-fed lakes, surrounded by huge fjords and glistening waterfalls.
Loen is close to some of Norway’s greatest attractions, including the Ramnefjellsfossen waterfall, the Briksdalen, and Tindefjellbreen glaciers, and Jostedalsbreen National Park.
You can safely walk the streets of Loen, day or night, without fear of theft or violence.
6. Tromsø
With a population of almost 77,000, Tromsø is one of the largest Norwegian municipalities.
This Nothern Norwegian city is known around the world as the “city that doesn’t sleep.”
While the sun never rests during the summer in Tromsø, we can assure you that its residents do.
No matter what time of year you visit, Tromsø offers a unique experience.
The Polaria aquarium, Tromsø Ice Domes, whale watching, and the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden are just a few of this small fishing town’s main attractions.
During the winter months, which offer 24/7 darkness, Tromsø is one of the best places to find the exquisite Northern Lights.
7. Trondheim
Once a Viking trading post, Trondheim was once the capital of Norway.
Founded in 997 AD, this waterfront city is infamous for its row of colorful wooden houses that stretch along the Nidelven River.
This region attracts outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike.
Tourists can enjoy epic hikes along the St. Olav Ways, learn the region’s history at the Ringve Music Museum & Botanical Garden, or search for musk oxen in the nearby Dovrefjell mountains.
Trondheim’s crime rate is very low. It’s considered safe to walk alone there, day or night.
Awarded the honor of the European Region of Gastronomy 2022, guests of Trondheim are more likely to fall victim to a food coma than crime in Trondheim.
8. Stavanger
Home to nearly 131,000 residents, Stavanger is Norway’s fourth largest city.
Nestled among fjords, this waterfront town is where history meets modern.
Its oldest area, called Gamle, is lined with 18th-century wooden homes along cobblestone streets.
If nature is your pleasure, Stavanger is the gateway to some of Norway’s most picturesque landscapes.
Plan a walk on Jæren’s white-sand beach, surf the waters, or hike to the top of Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock).
Despite being one of the country’s biggest cities, Stavanger has a very low crime rate.
It is considered a very safe place to walk alone, even after the sun goes down.
9. Bergen
Bergen is the most unique and progressive city in Norway.
With 272,000 residents, it is also the second most populated.
Surrounded by seven fjords, this stunning city is a nucleus for shipping, aquaculture, and tourism.
As the “Gateway to the fjords,” there’s no shortage of outdoor activities in Bergen.
Whether you are up for a hike, boat ride, or guided tour, Bergen will not disappoint.
Despite Bergen’s population, its crime rate is very low.
Drugs and violent crime have not plagued this beautiful city.
You can expect to feel secure throughout your stay in this historic town.
10. Oslo
With over 600,000 residents, Oslo is Norway’s most populated city.
As the capital, it is also famous for its unique blend of historical and contemporary architecture.
It has large, open green spaces throughout the city, including the infamous Vigeland Park.
This 80-acre park features over 200 statues crafted by Norway sculptor Gustav Vigeland.
Oslo is a great place to learn about Norwegian culture and history.
Just a ferry ride away is the Norwegian Folk Museum.
This open-air museum has over 150 buildings, each with its own tales to share.
As the country’s biggest city, Oslo’s crime rate is a bit higher than other parts of Norway.
Even in this bustling city, however, crime is rare.
Tourists can feel safe walking alone at any time of day without fear of physical or verbal attacks.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling in Norway
Named one of the safest countries in the world, Norway is a popular destination for travelers across the globe.
While its 1 million tourists can feel safe wherever they go in Norway, travelers should always take certain precautions.
- Keep your belongings close to you or locked up in a safe place. Lock your car and never leave anything visible. Bikes should be locked up, even if you only leave them for a short time.
- Nature is your biggest threat when visiting Norway. To avoid injury or death, follow all warning signs. Many areas are best explored with a guide.
- Educate yourself on the area’s potential dangers and safety rules before heading out on a hike. This is particularly important when visiting Svalbard, where there are almost as many polar bears as humans.
- If you are traveling alone, make sure you let someone know where you are going. This is particularly true when heading out for a hike.
- Solo travelers looking to meet people on their journey should visit a Norwegian Trekking Association cabin or stay in a hostel. Here, travelers gather around the table for a meal and conversation. (Side note: wearing a green hat in Norway signals that you’re single.)
Norway Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Norway Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
How Safe Is Norway for Tourists?
Crime rates in Norway are very low, even in the country’s major cities.
Whether walking the city or hiking in nature, travelers should take precautions and always be aware of their surroundings.
Can I Really Go Anywhere I Want in Norway?
In 1957, Norway enacted the Outdoor Recreation Act.
This gives everyone the “right to access,” or Allemannsretten, Norway’s beautiful country.
You can legally camp or explore the open country, as long as you follow the rules laid out in the act.
Is Norway Safe for Female Travelers?
Norway is safe for solo and female travelers.
The risk of being attacked is low for all tourists, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
LGTBQ travelers are also safe.
Oslo residents recommend avoiding the city’s inner east side after dark.
What Dangers Are in Norway?
Nature is the biggest threat you will face when visiting Norway.
Norwegians caution against approaching waterfalls and glacier fronts.
Guided tours are recommended, as these guides know the region’s threats and are there to educate you.
Unless you are in Svalbard, you are not likely to see any predatory animals.
These cities set a great example for the rest of the world, showcasing the importance of creating safe and welcoming environments, which is a significant factor in attracting tourists and residents alike.
I’ve visited one of these cities in Norway, and the sense of security and peace is truly remarkable. It’s a fantastic destination for anyone seeking a safe and enjoyable experience.
Safety is a top priority for travelers and residents, and having a list of the safest cities in Norway is incredibly valuable. It helps people make informed choices.