Welcome to Norway

The Oslo city is very open to tourists with disabilities and there are many resources available for tourists with disabilities to plan their trip in advance. Tourist with disabilities can experience the city’s primary attractions and can travel to other parts of the country with few challenges. Most modern trains have lifts for wheelchairs, as well as wheelchair accessible toilets, security attachments for wheelchairs and at least one broad sleeping compartment. These must be booked in advance. The stops will be announced over the PA system and displayed on screens in the carriages.

Assistance is available for getting to and from your train at some stations. Assistance on your journey is free of charge and must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Assistance getting on and off the train does not require advance booking, but it is still recommended to contact the customer centre beforehand. If you bring your own assistant, they are entitled to a discount.

Newer local buses have ramps, either manual or automatic. In the larger towns, most buses have low floors and a button which will keep the doors open until everybody is on board. The newest buses display the next stop on screens, and the stops will also be announced over the PA system. Guide dogs are usually allowed on local buses.

In Oslo, newer trams have low floors and are easy to access for people with mobility disabilities. Older trams often have narrow stairways and can be challenging to access without assistance. In Bergen, all the trams are wheelchair friendly.

Most metro stations in Oslo have lifts or ramps that make the trains accessible for persons with disabilities but watch the gap between the train and the platform. On the stations, the trains are announced over the PA system and displayed on screens and trains. On the trains, the stations are announced over the PA system.

Most ferries in Norway are wheelchair accessible. Modern ferries are usually equipped with lifts, and most of the older ones have stair lifts for wheelchairs. Almost all ferries have ramps and accessible toilets available. Some ferry terminals are equipped with special queuing areas for disabled passengers. Using these will ensure that you are directed to the space on board that is best suited for your needs. If the terminal is not equipped with such spaces, the same is often available by contacting members of staff.

While it is not formally required, it is strongly recommended that you call ahead to let the ferry crew know what your needs in advance.

Known for its stunning fjords and majestic mountains and glaciers, Norway also ranks highly for accessible travel. In the last ten years, the country has made sweeping efforts to accommodate residents and visitors with all types of special needs, and as a result, both transportation and hospitality businesses are among the most wheelchair friendly in Northern Europe. Though not all restaurants and shops are easily accessible, the friendly local people are quick to lend a hand if you need assistance, and most attractions are either built to be accessible or are happy to accommodate in any way possible.