Biking is a great way to meet locals, explore new places, and get a great workout. Here are some essential tips on cycling in Norway.
Emergency phone numbers
Keep in mind that there might not be mobile phone coverage where you are heading. Emergency telephones can be found on some mountain trails and in tunnels.
110 – Fire
112 – Police
113 – Ambulance
120 – Emergency at sea
22 59 13 00 – Poisons Information Centre
1412 TDD (text phone for the hearing impaired)
Your bike must have
Mandatory equipment:
• a white or yellow light at the front
• a red light at the back
• a red reflector at the back
• white or yellow reflectors on the pedals
• two brakes that work independently
• bicycle bell
In Norway, drivers and cyclists share the road, and must abide by the same traffic rules. Keep to the right, give way to those coming from your right. Riding a bike while above the legal alcohol limit for driving is unlawful. The same road signs apply to you as to cars and other vehicles on the roads.
As a cyclist, you have some more options than other vehicles, however. You may cycle on the pavement if no bike lane is available, as long as you adapt your speed to that of pedestrians. You may cycle across pedestrian crossings, but cars are only obliged to stop for you if you dismount and cross the road on foot.
Always wear a helmet when you’re on your bike. It's also recommended to wear a high-visibility safety vest, especially on busy roads and during the dark autumn and winter seasons.
Cycling on motorways and dual carriageways is prohibited, as is cycling in certain tunnels. This will be clearly marked by road signs. The website cycletourer.co.uk has a useful map that shows which Norwegian tunnels you are allowed to cycle through.
Before turning left or right, indicate the direction of your turn by extending your hand. You may not cycle in the opposite direction of traffic on a one-way street if this is not indicated on traffic signs.
Cycling with children
Children under the age of 10 may ride as passengers on a bicycle.
If the kids are on their own bikes, they should be at least ten years old before cycling on a road or in a cycle lane. You must also teach them the traffic rules, and they must be mature enough to understand the overall traffic.
Electric bikes
An electric bike has a low impact on the environment, and is a great way to go exploring!
In principle, electric bikes can be used off road in the same way as ordinary bikes, but their use is not covered by the Norwegian right to roam. This means that other rules may apply on mountain trails and private roads, among other places. Make sure to check what rules apply where you're going. You can check with the closest tourist information office or bike rental shop.
If you're going for a long ride, remember to make sure to charge the battery. In the mountains, there may be a great distance between each place you can charge, so remember to plan in advance. Check the battery for any damage or faults before setting off.
Bike rental
Want to go cycling in Norway without having to bring your own bike? No problem! There are many bike rental shops throughout the country. Book a tour or a holiday package for a carefree holiday!
Your bike must have – mandatory equipment
- white or yellow light in the front
- red light in the back
- red reflector in the rear
- white or yellow reflectors on the pedals
- two brakes that work independently
- bicycle bell
Emergency phone numbers
Keep in mind that there might not be mobile phone coverage where you are heading. Emergency telephones can be found on some mountain trails and in tunnels.
110 – Fire
112 – Police
113 – Ambulance
120 – Emergency at sea
22 59 13 00 – Poisons Information Centre
1412 TDD (text phone for the hearing impaired)
Experience Norway by bike
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