The ultimate guide to elope in Norway
TIPS. VENUES & LOCATION IDEAS
for an adventure elopement in Norway
The dramatic coastal fjords, frozen glaciers, and towering mountains of Norway make it an incredible destination for an adventure elopement! If you want to spend your wedding day exploring, hiking, and having incredible, once-in-a-lifetime adventures together, a Norway elopement might be right for you.
But before you jet off to this Scandinavian country, there are a few things you should know about planning your Norway elopement! This guide will tell you all about eloping in Norway, and how to plan your adventurous wedding.
Let’s dive in…
Welcome to the Adventure of a Lifetime
Hey there, I’m Amber! I’m your elopement photographer and planner – your one-stop-shop for absolutely everything you need for a magical, incredible elopement day.
Finding an experienced Norway elopement photographer is so important! My job as an elopement photographer and travel planner is to guide you as you unlock the power of an intimate, meaningful adventure on the day you get married. I’ll help you find the perfect elopement location in Norway, get you details on flights, accommodations, meals, and unique things to do that match your one of a kind personalities, and everything you need for the perfect elopement!
We’ll adventure together and embark on this one of a kind journey, and I’ll document it all for you to relive each magical moment over and over. If you’re ready to elope in Norway, contact me to get started, and to learn more about Norway elopement packages!
First, let’s be sure we’re talking about the same thing:
What is an elopement?
Before we dig into planning your elopement in Norway, what does eloping actually mean? What is an elopement?
An elopement is truly anything you want it to be – it’s an adventurous hike, a laid back picnic, a multi day adventure, a celebration with family, a helicopter tour, an evening spent stargazing… anything you can imagine, you can do on your elopement day! Eloping is all about being intentional with how you get married. Spend the day doing whatever makes you happy, and start your marriage in a way that just feels right.
Why Elope in Norway?
Gorgeous Landscapes
Of course, the first reason to elope in Norway is the scenery. The landscapes of Norway are stunning, with waterfront picturesque towns, stunning mountains and fjords, and so much more.
The Northern Lights
If you elope in Norway from November to March, you might spot the Northern Lights! This incredible display is breathtaking, and what better time to experience the dancing lights than on your wedding day?
Norway is Easy to Travel In
Norway has great roads and public transportation, and most people speak English – making it an easy place to get around. The locals are friendly (it’s even been named the happiest country in the world), and always happy to help!
How to Legally Elope in Norway
To get legally married in Norway, you do not have to be citizens – however, you do have to have legal stay. Legal stay can mean a residence permit, a visitor’s visa, or a valid visa free stay. This makes the process quite complicated, so for couples traveling to Norway to elope, I recommend doing the legal stuff at home. You can sign the papers at home for less hassle, and that way, your elopement is all about adventures and fun – no worrying about paperwork, and you’ll have complete flexibility for your ceremony! Don’t worry, your marriage doesn’t begin until your vows are exchanged, and signing the papers before or after the elopement won’t make it any less real.
If you are citizens or have permanent residence in Norway, you can find instructions for getting legally married here.If you don’t live in the country, here are instructions for you! There’s more paperwork involved.
For couples from the US:
In certain states, you can ask your county clerk the authorization to sign your wedding license abroad. If they agree, as a registered minister, my team and I will be able to legally marry you without the hassle of a legal wedding ceremony in Norway.
How to Get to Norway for Your Elopement
When it’s time to begin your elopement adventure, you’ll need to get yourself to Norway! Norway is pretty easy to reach, with flights available from airports around the world and train and bus transportation available if you’re traveling from nearby countries.
Get to Norway by Plane
The first way to get to Norway is by plane. Norway’s capital, Oslo, is a big city with a major airport. Oslo Airport is the main hub for flights from around the world, and from most countries it’s easy to board a plane to this location! There are also several smaller cities and towns that offer both international and domestic flights, so no matter where you’re going in Norway, you’ll be able to get pretty close to your elopement location! Even the remote places, like the Lofoten Islands, have small airports that make it accessible by plane.
Get to Norway by Train or Bus
Europe is known for being pretty accessible by train and bus, so if you’re traveling from nearby countries, you may be able to avoid the airport and travel by land instead! You can find regular train connections from Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Gothenburg to Oslo, with overnight accommodations available. Traveling by train can take you through some beautiful scenery, so it can be an adventure in itself!
Norway can also be reached by bus from Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Russia, and the buses depart frequently.
Getting Around Norway During Your Elopement
Getting around Norway is pretty easy, as they have great public transportation throughout the country and travel is really accessible.
Renting a car offers the most flexibility, as driving is the easiest way to reach the more remote places. You can rent a car at the airport, and drive yourself anywhere you need to go! Keep in mind that driving in more remote parts of Norway can mean navigating fjords and ferries, and especially in the winter, it can be a little difficult to drive in ice and snow if you aren’t experienced. Fuel prices are pretty high in Norway, and renting a car is always more expensive, but the freedom and flexibility it gives you is worth it, so I recommend renting a car for at least part of your stay if you want to visit the remote locations!
Norway has trains and buses available that can make travel easier and less expensive! Buses travel even in the more rural areas, but of course, public transportation is more limited and you won’t have as much flexibility. But, while you’re in the city, taking public transportation can be a great way to travel! In the cities, public transportation is easy to navigate and there are several resources you can use depending on what city you’re in – for example, for public transportation in Oslo, use Ruter to find routes and tickets.
Lodging for Your Elopement in Norway
When you elope in Norway, you’ll need somewhere to stay! A place to come back to you after all your adventures is so important, and having a homebase can make all the difference. You can definitely travel around in Norway, staying in a few different places for a few days at a time! Here are some of your options for lodging when you elope in Norway.
Hotels in Norway
The first option for places to stay when you elope in Norway is in the hotels. Hotels are a convenient option, often offering breakfasts and luxurious accommodations. Check out Scandic Hotels for a list of amazing places to stay all over the country, and consider staying in the one of a kind ice hotel!
Airbnbs in Norway
Airbnb is always an amazing place to look for accommodations, and Norway is no exception. On Airbnb you can find amazing rentals and unique spots, and Norway has lots of one of a kind stays!
Check out this mirrored glass cabin, this treehouse that overlooks the mountains, and this cabin on the water.
Camping in Norway
For some extra adventure, you can add camping to your adventure! Camp in a tent, or rent a campervan or motorhome to travel around in during your elopement. A great thing about camping in Norway is that in the countryside and in remote areas, you’re allowed to set up camp anywhere, as long as you’re at least 500 feet away from a residential area and you respect the land and are considerate! You can also find established campsites with more amenities.
Top 5 spots to Elope in Norway
There are countless stunning places to elope in Norway – but here are just a few ideas!
Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park has some of the most incredible mountain views in Norway, and is one of the best places to elope for couples who want to experience the jaw dropping scenery. There are rivers and waterfalls flowing between the mountain peaks, and you can spend the night in huts and cabins around the park!
Trolltunga
This is one of the most incredible views in Norway – but it takes some work to get there! Trolltunga offers amazing views from the cliff, overlooking the lake and the towering mountains. The hike will take all day, winding through mountain peaks and incredible scenery the entire way.
Trollheimen Mountain Area
In the heart of the mountains, there are several old fashioned villages and cute cottages, surrounded by the Trollheim Mountain Area. This is one of the best places to elope in Norway for nature activities, as well as unique lodging options!
Folgefonna National Park
The Folgefonna National Park has some of the best hiking trails, with mountains that tower over alpine lakes. There are tons of glaciers and mountains to explore, and you can choose from short nature trails to long backpacking treks, and everything in between.
Geiranger Fjord
The Geiranger Fjord is Norway’s most famous Fjord, and is considered one of the most beautiful ones in the world! It’s known for its incredible waterfalls, including the famous Seven Sisters – a stunning waterfall with seven different streams.
Svalbard
For the most remote experience possible in one of the most beautiful places on earth, the Svalbard archipelago is the best place to consider. Very few people travel there every year and this place is know for its untouched beauty, its raw nature and its wilderness. If you’d like to spot polar bears on your elopement day, the Svalbard archipelago is the best place for you!
When to Elope in Norway
The best time for your Norway elopement will depend on what you want to do! There’s no bad time to visit, but your experience will be different depending on each season.
WINTER
Winter is the least popular time for tourists in Norway, because the weather is harsh and cold. Temperatures are often below freezing, with snow falling – especially in the higher elevation areas. The days are short, but this is the best time to see the Northern Lights.
SPRING
Early spring is still cold in Norway, but by the end of May, it gets sunnier and warmer. The wildflowers bloom, and hikes open up! This is the best time for a Norway elopement if you want to see the waterfalls in full force.
SUMMER
Summer is definitely the best time to elope in Norway, but it is the most popular time to visit! The days are long, and snow melts in the mountains, creating perfect hiking conditions. It does rain occasionally, so be prepared with some waterproof layers, but the weather in Norway is ideal for outdoor adventures!
FALL
The fall colors make Norway absolutely stunning. This is a great time to elope, as it’s still warm in early fall, but less people are around. Especially in coastal areas, the weather is more mild. Rain is frequent, but with waterproof gear, you’ll have some privacy on your elopement day.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Norway?
All-inclusive, 7-day ELOPEMENT and honeymoon
6 nights in accommodation (3* or more)
Elopement photographer for 3 days
All meals for the 7 days
4-5 beautiful, natural and raw ceremony location options
Custom timeline of the day
Officiant
Florist
Hair and makeup
Car rental
Airport transfers
TOTAL FOR An all-inclusive ELOPEMENT IN NORWAY:
$27 400
12-hour ELOPEMENT
Elopement photographer for 12 hours
4-5 beautiful, natural and raw ceremony location options
Custom timeline of the day
TOTAL FOR A 12-hour ELOPEMENT IN NORWAY:
$9 200
Unique Things to Do When You Elope in Norway
One of the best things about eloping is getting to planet your own unique adventure!
Norway offers plenty of things to do, so here are a few ideas of what you can do when you elope in Norway.
Take a Wildlife Tour
Norway has some incredible wildlife, and one of the most unique experiences you can have in this country is to take a wildlife Safari and see the animals. This is the best way to see them in their natural habitat, and the guides will know where to find them.
Off the coast, you can go whale watching to see the majestic creatures in the ocean, and in the summer you can see sperm whales, and if you’re lucky, humpbacks, dolphins and killer whales too!
On land, you can spot musk oxen, moose, reindeer, and unique birds. When you’re exploring in Norway, always be sure to respect the animals, never approach them, and never seek out an encounter with a wild animal if you’re not on a guided tour!
Go Hiking
Hiking is one of the best things to do on your elopement day for couples that love to get outdoors, as it can take you to some incredible views and remote places! In Norway, you can hike in the mountains, see waterfalls, and trek on frozen glaciers.
Winter Sports
Norway is just as fun in the winter as it is in the summer! There are tons of winter activities that you can do, including skiing and snowboarding, but you can also experience the world’s longest toboggan run by taking the Loen Skylift up the fjord and riding a sled all the way down! This is a really fun, unique experience that you can only have in Norway. Winter is also the best time to spot the Northern Lights!
What to Wear to Elope in Norway
There are some extra considerations when deciding what to wear for an elopement. You’ll be moving around more than you would at a traditional wedding, so it’s important to keep comfort in mind!
The Dress
When eloping in Norway, the most important thing is being able to move – so opt for loose skirts and styles that allow for movement and adventures. Norway is often cold, especially in the mountains, so heavier fabrics can help. For hikes, lightweight fabrics can help you stay cool on your adventures.
The Shoes
Shoes are one of the most important parts of your elopement attire – there’s nothing worse than getting a blister on a hike! You’ll be walking around and exploring, so shoes that are comfortable and sturdy are vital. Hiking boots are the best option if you plan to hit the trails. Make sure they’re broken in!
The Suit
With elopement suits, it’s easy to layer! A jacket is perfect to keep you warm in the mountains, and taking it off will keep you cool on a hike. Make sure your elopement suit fits well, and allows you to move easily.
Typical food and dishes from Norway
You might want to integrate into your elopement day
Fårikål
Fårikål, a cherished Norwegian dish, whispers of tradition and comfort. It is a symphony of flavors that dance on the tongue, bringing warmth to the coldest of days. Tender lamb and cabbage intertwine in a hearty embrace, their essence melding together to create a culinary masterpiece. With each simmering pot, generations gather, sharing stories and laughter, as the aroma of simmering spices fills the air. Fårikål is not merely a dish; it is a cultural touchstone, a symbol of togetherness and culinary heritage. In its humble simplicity, Fårikål captures the essence of Norwegian culture, inviting all who taste it to join in the celebration of community, nourishment, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Fiskeboller i hvit saus
Fiskeboller i hvit saus, a beloved Scandinavian delight, embodies the essence of coastal cuisine. Delicate fish balls, crafted with care, swim gracefully in a velvety sea of creamy white sauce. Each bite carries a taste of the ocean, a whisper of maritime splendor that lingers on the palate. Fiskeboller i hvit saus is more than a dish; it is a tribute to the bountiful seas and the humble traditions of Nordic fishing communities. With each spoonful, memories are awakened, evoking images of wooden fishing boats and salty air. This culinary masterpiece invites us to savor the simplicity of life’s pleasures, to relish in the harmony of flavors, and to pay homage to the rich maritime heritage that has shaped the Nordic identity.
Lefse
Lefse, a cherished Norwegian delicacy, transports taste buds on a nostalgic journey to the heart of Scandinavian heritage. A thin, tender flatbread, lovingly rolled and griddled, it embodies the simplicity and warmth of traditional Norwegian cuisine. Lefse whispers tales of grandmothers’ kitchens, where generations would gather to partake in the ritual of its creation. With a sprinkle of sugar and a slather of butter, each bite is a gentle embrace of comfort and familiarity. Lefse is more than a treat; it is a cultural treasure, passed down through time, connecting loved ones across generations. As one savors its delicate texture and subtle sweetness, the spirit of Norway’s rich culinary legacy comes alive, reminding us of the enduring power of food to unite, nourish, and celebrate the joys of shared traditions.
Elope in Norway – Your Checklist
Choose a Location
Deciding where to elope is probably the hardest part of planning your Norway elopement. There are so many beautiful places! But don’t worry – that’s what I’m here for.
As an elopement photographer, I help couples find the perfect place to tie the knot and say their vows. As a travel planner, I’m always exploring to find the best secret spots! Once you’ve decided to elope in Norway, don’t hesitate to get in touch for planning assistance.
Pick a date
After you research the weather and decide what you want to do when you elope in Norway, choose a date for your ceremony!
Find more information about travel visas and wedding documentation
US citizens traveling to Norway for less than 90 days do not need a visa!
Book your flights and accommodation
Booking flights and lodging early, especially if you elope in the summer during Norway’s peak season, ensures that you find the best deals and can stay close to your elopement location.
Book your vendors
Book your elopement vendors as soon as possible, because they’ll be a huge help in planning your day! They also fill their calendars quickly, so reach out early to work with your favorites.
Live your dream elopement
Spend the day adventuring, and tie the knot! Get married to your best friend in a unique, true to you way.
Let’s chat!
Are you eager to start planning your elopement in Norway? I’m here to help you envision, plan and immortalize this beautiful adventure! Contact me now for a free consultation!
