🛌 Tips for tourists on choosing and booking accommodation in Norway: mistakes, food and cancellation
When you're planning a trip to Norway, it's important to book your accommodation first. However, many tourists make mistakes that spoil their experience and lead to unnecessary expenses. To make sure your holiday goes smoothly, it's a good idea to find out in advance how to book accommodation, whether you should choose hotels with meals included and how to cancel your booking safely if your plans change.
This article will answer the most common questions that travellers have when choosing where to stay in Norway. It will also give you some useful tips to help you avoid making common mistakes.
🏞️ What mistakes do tourists most often make when booking accommodation in Norway?
The most common mistakes people make when booking a holiday are: booking late (especially during peak season, which is June to August); choosing hotels that are far from main attractions; and not reading the cancellation policy carefully. Also, many people do not think about the time of year when booking, and end up paying more because they miss out on discounts. To avoid these problems, book your accommodation in advance and check the location and booking conditions carefully.
🏞️ Is it worth booking a place to stay in Norway that includes food?
It's a good idea to choose accommodation with meals included in remote areas where there are few cafes and restaurants. In big cities (Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø), it's better to book rooms without meals because there are lots of cheap cafes and restaurants. The meals included are easy and cheap to get in small towns or places with limited facilities.
🏞️ Can I cancel my accommodation booking in Norway without being charged?
Most hotels and booking platforms have flexible cancellation policies. You can usually cancel your booking free of charge 24–72 hours before your arrival date. Always check the cancellation policy when you book. Choose options that allow you to cancel for free if you are worried that your plans might change.
🏞️ How to choose the right hostel in Norway? Here are three top tips:
- Check reviews on Booking.com and Hostelworld, paying attention to cleanliness and amenities.
- Choose a hostel that is close to places you want to visit or public transport.
- Look for free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen and laundry facilities to save money and enjoy extra comfort.
🌌 How do I book a place to stay in advance during the Northern Lights season in Norway?
Book hotels and guesthouses in popular places to see the Northern Lights (Tromsø, Lofoten, Alta) 2–3 months in advance. Use online platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb to find places with panoramic windows or special igloos that offer comfortable viewing of the northern lights.
🏨 What do you need to think about when renting a short-term place to stay in Norway?
Don't forget to check the extra costs, like cleaning, utilities and internet. Look at where it is, if there is a kitchen and laundry facilities, to save money. Choose accommodation that lets you cancel easily if your plans change, so you don't lose money. Use trusted platforms with reviews.
🏙️ Which cities in Norway are the easiest to find accommodation at short notice?
It's easier to find places to stay at the last minute in smaller cities like Trondheim, Ålesund and Kristiansand. These cities don't get as many tourists, even during the busy season, so you can find a room in a hotel or hostel without having to book in advance.
🏨 What should you think about when picking a place to stay in Bergen?
When choosing where to stay in Bergen, think about how close it is to attractions and bus or train stops, as the weather can change a lot. Make sure the rooms have heating and soundproofing. To save money, book in advance or choose apartments and hostels that have a kitchen.
🌌 Can you see the Northern Lights from a hotel in Tromsø?
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights right from your window in some hotels in Tromsø, such as the Clarion Collection Hotel and the Radisson Blu Hotel. These hotels are located along the waterfront, where there is not much light pollution. However, the best option is to book a tour outside the city so you can see more.
🏨 What should you think about when picking a hotel in Norway if you're travelling by car?
Choose hotels on the edge of the city or near main roads with free parking and it's easy to get to places. Check reviews to see if there is parking available and if it is safe. This will help you avoid extra costs and problems with parking.
Choosing the right place to stay is the key to a comfortable stay in Norway. If you follow our recommendations, you can avoid common mistakes and enjoy your trip without unnecessary hassle and expenses.
Share your experiences and tips for booking accommodation in Norway in the comments. Don't forget to check out other articles on our blog to be prepared for anything you might need to know for your trip! 🏞️📌✨