What Currency Does Norway Use?

Norway uses the Norwegian krone (NOK), not the euro. UK travellers must pay in local currency.

What Currency Does Norway Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

Planning a trip to Norway from the UK? Whether you're visiting Oslo, Bergen or the fjords, it’s important to know what currency to bring and how best to pay. Unlike many European countries, Norway is not part of the Eurozone and retains its own currency. This guide explains what currency Norway uses, how it works in practice, and what UK visitors should know to avoid unnecessary charges or confusion.

What Is the Official Currency of Norway?

The official currency of Norway is the Norwegian krone (plural: kroner).

  • Currency name: Norwegian krone

  • Currency symbol: kr or NOK

  • ISO code: NOK

  • Subunit: 1 krone = 100 øre (though øre coins are no longer in circulation)

The krone is issued by Norges Bank, Norway’s central bank.

Does Norway Use the Euro?

No. Norway is not a member of the European Union and does not use the euro. All prices are in Norwegian kroner, and euros are not accepted in shops, restaurants, or transport services.

How Does Currency Work in Practice?

  • Prices throughout Norway are displayed in NOK

  • Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere

  • Contactless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common

  • ATMs are available, but cash use is rare—even in small towns

It’s entirely possible to visit Norway and never handle physical cash. That said, it can be useful to carry a small amount of kroner for emergencies or independent businesses.

Benefits and Risks for UK Travellers

Benefits:

  • Card payments are universal—safe and convenient

  • No need to exchange large sums of cash

  • Fee-free cards can offer competitive exchange rates

Risks:

  • GBP is not accepted anywhere in Norway

  • Standard UK bank cards may add foreign transaction fees (typically 2.75–3%)

  • If asked to pay in GBP instead of NOK (e.g. at a terminal), you may be charged a poor exchange rate via dynamic currency conversion (DCC)

Best Ways to Pay in Norway from the UK

  • Use a travel debit card like Chase, Starling, Monzo or Wise for low fees and real-time exchange rates

  • Pay in NOK, not GBP, when given the choice

  • Avoid exchanging money at UK airports or hotels in Norway

  • Use ATMs in Norwegian towns for better rates if you need cash

Real-Life Example

If a train ticket costs 250 NOK:

  • Using a travel card like Chase UK, you'll pay approx. £18.20

  • Using a high street bank card with fees, you may pay £18.80–£19.20

  • Choosing to pay in GBP via DCC might cost you £20+, due to inflated rates

FAQs

Can I use euros in Norway?
No. Only Norwegian kroner (NOK) is accepted.

Should I get cash before I go?
Not necessary. You can withdraw kroner from ATMs in Norway if needed, but card use is the norm.

Are cards accepted in rural Norway?
Yes. Even in remote areas, contactless payments are widely accepted.