What is the Currency in Norway?

If you’ve ever dreamt of exploring Norway’s majestic fjords, charming cities, or the aurora-lit night skies, you’re in for a treat! But before you pack your thermals and start Googling “where to spot reindeer,” there’s one crucial detail to nail down: the currency in Norway. After all, nobody wants to be the person holding up the queue because they don’t know how to pay for their cinnamon bun. So, what is the currency in Norway? Let’s dive in and make sure your kroner knowledge is as sharp as your sense of adventure!

The Norwegian Krone

The currency in Norway is the Norwegian krone, often represented by the symbol “kr” and the currency code NOK. The word “krone” translates to “crown” in English, which might make you feel like royalty when you’ve got some in your wallet. Each krone is subdivided into 100 øre, although you won’t find many øre in circulation anymore—more on that later.

The History of the Norwegian Krone

Now, let’s take a little time machine back to the 19th century. The Norwegian krone was introduced in 1875, replacing the speciedaler at a conversion rate of 1 krone to 4 speciedaler. This was part of Norway’s entry into the Scandinavian Monetary Union alongside Sweden and Denmark, which is why the currencies of these countries still bear such striking similarities today. The union dissolved in 1914, but Norway decided to keep the krone.

Interestingly, the krone has seen some design changes over the years, including a major redesign in 2017. This latest version is as sleek as Scandanavian furniture and was inspired by the sea and the coast, fitting for a country with such a rich maritime history.

Norwegian Krone Currency Denominations

When it comes to the Norwegian krone, it’s all about notes and coins. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll find jangling in your pockets or nestled in your wallet:

Banknotes

• 50 krone note
• 100 krone note
• 200 krone note
• 500 krone note
• 1,000 krone note

Coins

• 1 krone
• 5 kroner
• 10 kroner
• 20 kroner

As for the øre, coins of 50 øre were discontinued in 2012, so don’t be surprised if they seem a little elusive—like spotting a troll in the wild.

Norway Currency Exchange Rates

The Norwegian krone isn’t pegged to any other currency, meaning its value can fluctuate based on global market conditions. So, how does it stack up against the British pound? In August 20 1 GBP tends to get you somewhere around 10-14 NOK, but this can change, so it’s always worth checking the latest rates.

You can buy NOK online before your trip quickly and securely, you’ll get great rates with no commission, so you have more travel money for cinnamon buns (trust us, they’re worth it).

Prices in Norway

Norway, while breathtakingly beautiful, does have a bit of a reputation for being pricey. It’s the kind of place where you might gasp at the view and at the cost of your meal in equal measure. But don’t worry—being informed can help you navigate these expenses with ease.

Here’s a quick overview of what average prices were in August 2024.

• Accommodation: A night in a mid-range hotel can set you back around 1,000 to 1,500 NOK. Budget options like hostels are available and might cost you around 300-700 NOK per night.
• Food: Dining out in Norway? Expect to pay around 200-300 NOK for a meal at a casual restaurant. If you’re in the mood for fine dining, a three-course meal for two could range from 1,000 to 1,500 NOK. For those on a budget, groceries will be your best friend, and cooking for yourself can save a pretty krone.
• Transportation: Public transport is reliable and relatively affordable. A single bus or tram ticket in cities like Oslo will cost around 40 NOK.

Is Norway Expensive?

Let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: is Norway expensive? The short answer is yes, it can be. But don’t let that deter you! With a bit of savvy planning, you can enjoy all that Norway has to offer without breaking the bank.

One tip for the budget-conscious is to take advantage of Norway’s stunning nature—hiking, exploring the fjords, and even camping can be very low cost. Consider staying outside of major city centres, where accommodation tends to be cheaper. And if you’re really looking to save, self-catering your meals can significantly cut down on food expenses.

Cash vs Card in Norway

Norway is largely cashless. You can pay with a credit or debit card almost anywhere—from the fanciest of restaurants to the smallest of kiosks. Even street vendors and taxi drivers are usually equipped to take card payments.

However, it’s always wise to have some cash on hand for those occasions when cards might not be accepted, such as in rural areas or for certain public toilets (yes, you often have to pay for the privilege). So, cash and card will serve you well in Norway.

The Travelex Money Card is the perfect Norwegian trip companion. You can load with Norwegian krone before you travel, so you don’t have to worry about exchange rates changing while you’re away, and you can tap and pay just like a regular debit or credit card.

As for tipping, it’s not as big a deal in Norway as it is in other countries. Service charges are typically included in your bill, so there’s no need to tip unless you feel you’ve received exceptional service.

Ready to Explore Norway? Buy Your Norwegian Krone online today.

Excited to explore the land of the midnight sun? Before you take off, make sure you’re prepared with enough Norwegian krone to cover your adventures. Order your NOK online now to get competitive exchange rates with pay no commission and choose home delivery or click and collect from a convenient location.

Choose cash or a Travelex Money Card, powered by Mastercard, so that you can be flexible with your travel money and ready for any kind of spend. Your Norwegian adventure awaits, and with your currency in check, you’ll be all set to enjoy every moment.

Happy travels, or as the Norwegians say, “God reise!”