🚭 How smoking is viewed in Norway: rules, restrictions and useful tips for tourists

Norway is a country with a high level of concern for public health and the environment, which is reflected in strict laws and regulations regarding smoking. If you are planning a trip to Norway and are a smoker, you should find out in advance what restrictions apply in the country to avoid fines and unpleasant situations. In this article, we will take a detailed look at how Norwegians feel about smoking, where smoking is allowed and prohibited, what fines are imposed for violations, and we will also provide useful recommendations for tourists. Answers to 10 key questions will help you feel comfortable and confident. See also links to useful sections of the blog: ‘Safety, sustainable tourism and accessibility’, ‘Etiquette and Janteloven’, ‘Useful tips for tourists’.

❓10 FAQs about smoking in Norway for tourists

1. How do people in Norway feel about smoking in public places?

The attitude towards smoking in Norway is quite strict. The country has a strict anti-smoking policy, and smoking is strictly prohibited in most public places. This applies to restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels, shops, airports, train stations and all public transport. Violation of the law is punishable by heavy fines. Norwegians not only follow these rules, but also expect tourists to comply with them. Smoking is only allowed in specially designated areas, which are marked with special signs or are located outdoors, away from the entrances to public buildings. For more information about these rules, please refer to the section ‘Safety, sustainable tourism and accessibility’.

2. Where is smoking permitted for tourists in Norway?

Smoking is permitted on the street and in specially designated areas marked with special signs ‘Røykeområde’ (smoking area). These areas are usually located on the street, away from building entrances, transport stops and public places.

Hotels and campsites may also have designated smoking areas. Smoking indoors, even on hotel balconies, is almost always prohibited. It is recommended that you check the smoking rules at your place of accommodation with the staff in advance to avoid fines. For useful tips on accommodation, see the section ‘Accommodation and lodging’.

3. Is smoking allowed in restaurants and cafes in Norway?

No, smoking is strictly prohibited in all enclosed areas of restaurants, cafes and bars in Norway, even if these establishments have special extractor fans or separate rooms. The law also prohibits smoking on terraces directly adjacent to the establishment.

Most establishments have separate smoking areas outside, away from the main entrance. If you are visiting a restaurant or café, it is worth asking the staff in advance where the nearest smoking area is. Failure to comply with these rules may result in a heavy fine. For more information about restaurants and cafés, see the ‘Food and gastronomy’ section.

4. Is smoking allowed in hotel rooms in Norway?

Smoking is prohibited in rooms, public areas and on balconies in hotels and motels in Norway. Violation of this ban is punishable by heavy fines (sometimes up to several thousand kroner), which are automatically charged to your card upon check-out.

If you smoke, choose hotels with specially equipped outdoor smoking areas located outside the main building. Always check the rules of stay in advance to avoid unpleasant situations. For more information on tourist accommodation and rules of stay, see the ‘Accommodation and lodging’ section.

5. Is smoking allowed on public transport and at stations?

No, smoking is strictly prohibited on public transport, including buses, trains, trams, the metro and ferries. This rule applies to both the carriages and the platforms and stops. Smoking is also prohibited at stations and bus terminals.

If you need to smoke during a long journey, use the stops and specially designated smoking areas outside stations or terminals. Otherwise, you risk a heavy fine. For more information on using transport in Norway, see the section ‘Transport, roads, car rental’.

6. What are the penalties for smoking in prohibited areas in Norway?

Smoking in prohibited areas is subject to heavy fines, which can range from NOK 500 to NOK 2,000 (Norwegian kroner) depending on the situation and location of the offence. Fines are issued by the police or municipal services that monitor public areas.

Refusal to pay the fine may result in additional penalties and complicate your stay in the country. It is recommended that you strictly follow the rules and only use designated smoking areas. For useful safety tips and rules of conduct, please refer to the section ‘Safety, sustainable tourism and accessibility’.

7. Can cigarettes be purchased freely in Norway?

Cigarettes and tobacco products can be purchased in supermarkets, Narvesen kiosks, petrol stations and specialised tobacco shops. However, Norway has strict age restrictions — tobacco is only sold to persons over the age of 18.

Cigarette prices are very high due to taxation and excise duties (around NOK 130–150 per pack). Tobacco products cannot be freely advertised or displayed in shop windows. Useful shopping tips can be found in the ‘Shopping and souvenirs’ section.

8. Can I bring cigarettes across the border into Norway?

Tourists can bring up to 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco into Norway duty-free.

Any quantities exceeding the limit are subject to high taxes and must be declared when crossing the border. Violation of this rule will result in heavy fines. For advice on customs and border crossing, see the section ‘Useful tips for tourists’.

9. Are electronic cigarettes allowed in Norway?

Electronic cigarettes are treated the same as regular cigarettes, so the same restrictions and bans apply. They may only be used in designated outdoor areas.

10. How do locals feel about tourists who smoke?

Norwegians respect personal choice, but they disapprove of breaking the rules and smoking in public places. It is best to follow all the rules and be considerate to avoid conflicts.

By knowing and following the smoking rules, you can enjoy your trip to Norway while respecting the culture and traditions of this beautiful country!