Is Oslo Safe: Travel Safety Advice From A Local (2024)
Is Oslo safe for travelers?
Oslo is generally an extremely safe city for travelers, including solo travelers, families, and travelers in general, as well as for the locals.
I have lived in Oslo for two decades, in different parts of the city, and I always feel completely safe, including at night and at public transport.
The Norwegian capital has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, the locals are generally respectful and helpful towards travelers, and most of the city streets are well-lit and well-policed. Public transportation is safe to use at all hours.
That said, petty theft and violence do occur. Follow basic safety precautions as you would anywhere.
Is Oslo Safe: Crime Rate In Oslo Is Low
The general crime rate in Oslo is very low and decreasing.
It is generally safe for travelers to move around in the public sphere in Oslo at all hours of the day and night. I have walked everywhere in Oslo alone, day and night, and have never experienced anything threatening or uncomfortable.
The general precautions you should still take as a traveler are things like avoiding being visibly intoxicated, not walking alone late at night in deserted areas, or leaving your belongings unattended in bars and restaurants.
Choose public transportation, Uber, or registered taxis.
đź“Ť TravelToNorway Tips For A Safe Holiday:
- Dont get visibly intoxicated.
- If you leave your drink alone, get a new one.
- Ask your host or hotel staff for advice about the area where you are staying.
- Keep your pockets and bags closed in public spaces.
- Be normally vigilant of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- Take registered taxis or public transportation (which is very safe)
- Relax, and have fun!
The table below displays the total registered number of offenses in all categories. About 30% of these are private property offenses annually.
Is Public Transport Safe For Travelers in Oslo?
Oslo has a well-functioning public transportation network comprised of trams, buses, and trains. Its public transport is considered among the safest in the world.
You can feel very secure on public transportation, regardless of the time of day or city district.
CCTV is common, most stations are well-lit, and drivers and fellow passengers are likely to assist you if any issue should occur.
đź“Ť TravelToNorway Tip: Get the Oslo Pass for free entry to more than 30 sights, Ruter city transport, city walking tour, as well as discounted prices for selected sightseeing and activities.
Are Taxi Fares Safe In Oslo?
Uber and registered taxis are very safe in Oslo. I have never had any negative experiences over the years, and statistics support that taxis in Oslo are a very safe option.
You should avoid taking pirate taxis or unregistered taxis, as they are illegal and are not vetted or registered anywhere.
If you want to up your feeling of safety in Oslo, you have the following options:
- Book online through an app or taxi service to register your ride and driver.
- Take a photo of the taxi license plate or taxi sign before getting in.
- Text a friend the number of the taxi and tell them where you are going.
Registered taxi companies in Oslo:
- Oslo Taxi 02323
- Norgestaxi 08000
- Christiania Taxi 02365
- Uber
- Bolt
Is Oslo Safe At Night For Travelers?
Oslo is generally a very safe city in which to walk alone at night. Incidents of serious crimes, violence, or sexualized crimes are relatively low.
You can feel safe walking the streets of Oslo at night, even as a solo traveler.
However, as with any major city, incidents do occur. It’s always smart to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially during the late evenings. Remain especially aware of crowded areas during both day and night and avoid dark and desolate areas alone at night.
Overall, Oslo provides a safe environment for travelers.
đź“Ť TravelToNorway Tip: Get an e-SIM for Norway with unlimited data!
Is Oslo Safe To Travel Alone?
Oslo is a very safe destination for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. The general crime rate is low, and walking alone in the city day and night is safe.
Street harassment and catcalling are rare, and violent crimes are statistically not common.
As long as you take care of your personal belongings, don’t get intoxicated on your own, and choose registered transportation, you are unlikely to encounter bad situations.
Are Oslo Streets Safe?
The streets and public areas in Oslo are generally very safe and comfortable. In Norway, people tend to respect personal space, unwanted attention on the streets is uncommon, and catcalling hardly happens.
In fact, many foreigners initially find Norwegians a bit unapproachable and cold, which is a misunderstood interpretation of their intentions. Norwegians intend to show respect for your boundaries and personal space and expect the same in return.
The Norwegian culture is very different and appears a bit strange to people from especially southern Europe, the US, and Latin cultures.
Striking up a conversation with strangers is not common in Norway and can be interpreted as uncomfortable and a violation of your personal space.
The same goes for avoiding eye contact with strangers and choosing a free seat on the bus or subway (you DON’T sit down next to someone on the bus in Norway if there are other seats free!).
This is actually a token of respect for your personal space and integrity in Oslo, but it might feel rude or unapproachable to people from cultures where things are very different.
Also read: 23 Best Things To Do In Oslo In Summer From A Local
Petty Crime In Oslo
Oslo, like any other city, does have instances of petty crime, such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist spots and public transportation.
However, compared to other major cities around the world, the risk of this is relatively low. The citizens are generally law-abiding, and the city is considered safe for travelers.
In fact, if you forget something somewhere, it is not unlikely that someone will come running after you to give it back!
Still, be smart. It is wise to remain cautious, guard your valuables out in public, keep pockets and bags closed, and don’t leave your things unattended anywhere.
đź“Ť Quick facts about Norway:
- Population 5 million
- Capital city: Oslo
- Language: Norwegian (most people speak English)
- Currency: Norwegian Krone (currency calculator)
- Coastline: 62000 miles
- Has territory in the Arctic region
- Midnight Sun in summer and Northern Lights in winter
Health Risk & Advice For Oslo
There are no specific vaccine requirements for visiting Oslo, but you should check with your country’s travel advice in case there are recommendations for you.
The water in Oslo is safe to drink from the tap, and food safety is good.
Risk Of Terrorism Is Very Low
The risk of terrorist attacks in Oslo is very low.
There have been three terrorist attacks in Oslo directed at specific targeted groups and places in the last 13 years.
An attack in 2022 was directed at the LGBTQ+ community in a famous bar in central Oslo. In 2011, a single individual set off a bomb at a government building and attacked political youth on the left wing.
These attacks are assessed to be isolated incidents and have not increased the risk of attacks in Oslo in general.
FAQs Oslo
Can You Drink Tap Water In Oslo?
Drinking water straight from the tap in Oslo is considered safe and clean.
The water undergoes rigorous treatment and testing to ensure it is of high quality and harmless for consumption. In fact, the tap water in Oslo is often noted for its fresh and clean taste.
Is Oslo Expensive For Tourists?
Yes, Oslo is a bit expensive for travelers visiting from countries with lower income rates than Norway.
As Norway is one of the countries in the world with the highest salaries and prices, Oslo’s price level is often considered very expensive for travelers.
Is Oslo A Good Place To Visit?
Oslo is a small, modern, and beautiful capital with lots of entertainment and shopping, a beautiful fjord, a rich culture and history, great dining, and close to nature. If you like city holidays, Oslo is a great place to visit.
Is Oslo A Good Solo Destination?
Oslo is a really safe destination for solo travelers. There are lots of fun things to see and do without worrying about personal safety or crime.
That said, in Oslo and Norway in general, connecting with the locals is not as easy as in many other destinations. You will find the locals friendly and polite but often not inclined to connect further than a casual conversation, helping you find your way or something.
How To Get From Airport Oslo To City Center?
From Oslo Gardermoen International Airport, there are three ways to get to the city center.
The airport train is the fastest way; it leaves every 10 minutes and takes 19-22 minutes to Oslo Central Station. There is also an airport bus that takes longer and has more stops. The train is about $24 one way.
Lastly, you can get a taxi outside the airport’s arrivals area that will take you to the door of your accommodation. The price for a taxi with up to four seats is around $200.
Wrap-Up Is Oslo Safe
Oslo is a very safe destination to visit in all aspects. You can walk and take public transport or taxi around Oslo day and night while feeling very safe.
Oslo is a great city to visit safety-wise, including for families, solo travelers, and solo female travelers. It also has a lot of fun experiences to offer!
Related blog posts:
Exploring 8 Vibrant City Districts of Oslo: A Guide to Norway’s Capital
