Stavanger-travel-tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Stavanger

Respect the Environment

  • Littering: Dispose of trash properly; recycling is highly encouraged
  • Noise levels: Be mindful of noise, especially near residential areas and during quiet hours (10 PM - 8 AM)
  • Environmental protection: Do not disturb or remove any natural formations, such as rock carvings or plants

Interacting with Locals

  • Greetings:
    • Greet people with a friendly “Hei” (HA-y) for hello and “Takk” (TA-kuh) for thank you
    • Learn some basic Norwegian phrases to show respect
  • Personal space: Respect the locals’ personal space; physical contact is not commonly practiced in Norway
  • Dress modestly: Dress conservatively when visiting churches or attending cultural events

Cultural Norms

  • Mealtimes:
    • Lunch (fika): typically eaten between 11 AM and 2 PM
    • Dinner: usually served between 5 PM and 7 PM
  • Social gatherings: Punctuality is appreciated; arrive on time for social events
  • Tipping culture: Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving small change (1-2%) is considered polite

Safety and Emergency

  • Emergency numbers:
    • Police: 112
    • Ambulance: 113
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
  • Follow traffic rules: Norway has strict traffic laws; pedestrians and drivers should respect each other’s space