Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
When to Go
Easily the best time to travel in Norway with children is the main tourist season that runs
from mid-June to mid-August - this is when hotels offer the best deals for families, all
sights and attractions are open and the weather is more conducive to a happy family holi-
day.
Ifyou'vecometoNorwayforthenorthernlightsoractivitiessuchasdog-sledding,don't
be put off by the bitterly cold weather. It's all about coming prepared with the appropri-
ate clothes (Norwegian families don't hide in their homes for 10 months of the year!) and
winter can be a magical time to be here.
Accommodation
Hotels, hostels, campsites and other accommodation options often have 'family rooms' or
cabinsthataccommodateuptotwoadultsandtwochildren.Althoughmanyhotelsdohave
larger, dedicated family rooms, other places simply squeeze in cots and/or extra beds when
space allows, always for an additional fee. The best hotel deals are to be found in summer,
or on weekends throughout the year.
One hotel chain that makes a special effort to cater for families from mid-June to mid-
August is
Thon Hotels (
www.thonhotels.no
)
, where family rooms can cost as little as
Nkr1090 - stunning value by Norwegian standards. Most Thon Hotels also have a small
children's play area and nice touches such as children's check-in steps. Other hotels, par-
ticularly larger chains, may offer similar summer deals.
Restaurants
Even in some upmarket restaurants, children will be made to feel welcome and, as a result,
Norwegians are often seen eating out as a family group. Many restaurants offer children's
menus with smaller portions and prices to match. And most of those that don't are willing
to serve a smaller portion if you ask.
The high cost of meals can mean it's a challenge in Norway to ensure that your children
eat well, but the general availability of hot dogs, hamburgers and pizzas do provide a fall-
back option in case of emergency. Supermarkets are also good if you're stocking up for
a family picnic and many have pre-made meals. Most restaurants have baby-change areas
and a limited number of high chairs.
