Personal space is vast
Norwegians keep distance. On buses, the seat next to someone is always the last one taken. Eye contact with strangers is avoided. Don't sit next to someone if other seats are free.
🤝 Etiquette in Norway
Etiquette in Norway is mostly invisible until you break it. Greetings, gestures, dining manners and the social cues locals expect are worth learning before you arrive.
In Norway, etiquette comes down to a few things: personal space is vast, take off shoes indoors, and don't skip the 'takk for maten'.
Take off shoes indoors
Non-negotiable. Always. Even in summer. The host will not ask — they expect you to know. Look for the shoe pile by the door.
Don't skip the 'takk for maten'
After a meal at someone's home, say 'takk for maten' (thanks for the food) and help clear the table. Next time you see them, say 'takk for sist' (thanks for last time). Norwegians track these debts.