How to Elope in Norway in 2024 [Packages, Locations, and Laws]

Norway, known as the Land of the Midnight Sun, is famous for its fjords, lakes, vikings, and waterfalls so high they’ll strain your neck. It also happens to be one of the most underrated destinations for an elopement. If you’re looking for information on how to plan your own Norway elopement, check out this article that covers everything you need to know about this stunning elopement location! This comprehensive guide includes the best places to elope in Norway, Norway elopement packages, legal information, and so much more to help you plan the perfect elopement experience.

Norway Elopement Checklist

1. Choose your elopement location(s)
2. Pick the ideal season to elope in Norway
3. Get your marriage license (includes step-by-step instructions for foreigners)
4. Figure out your travel plan (visas, plane tickets, and more)
5. Book your lodging
6. Book your activities
7. Craft the perfect timeline
8. Wrap up the details (tipping, language, useful information, etc.)
9. Norway elopement packages

8 Jaw Dropping Places to Elope in Norway

While Norway has unlimited options to choose from for your elopement, these are the top 8 locations most popular in the country. Psst… did you know that I create completely personalized location lists for all my couples?

Best Time of Year to Elope in Norway

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Norway is magical. The weather is nice, the famous fjords are breathtaking as ever, and all the trails are snow-free. However, the summer season also comes with some major drawbacks, particularly with crowds and high prices. If you’re looking to elope at some of Norway’s most popular attractions, I would advise against the summer months and opt for the fall instead.

Fall (September – October)

Fall, in my opinion, is the best time to elope in Norway. The summer rush has subsided, prices are a bit cheaper, and the weather is still fairly pleasant. The leaves are also changing color and turn Norway into a colorful paradise. Some areas of the country start to experience rain during this time, so prepared to potentially get a little wet.

Winter (November – April)

Winter is Norway’s quietest season. It’s magical during Christmas, cheap, and it’s a great time to see the Northern Lights. However, the weather is harsh and there is lots of snow! If you do well in the cold, driving in the snow, and pivoting plans last minute, winter is a great time to visit.

Spring (May – June)

Spring is another great time to elope in Norway. There aren’t as many tourists, the wildflowers are blooming, and the waterfalls are at their peak. Higher altitude areas will still have some snow during these months, but by June, most areas are clear enough to explore. Like the fall, temperatures are mild, prices are a bit cheaper, and the summer rush hasn’t made its way to the country just yet.

Can Foreigners Get Married in Norway?

Yes, foreigners can get married in Norway. However, the process is very lengthy and requires a lot of paperwork. Personally, I recommend getting married in your home country then having a symbolic ceremony in Norway. It will save you time and a massive headache.

How to Get a Norway Marriage License

Note: This process specifically applies to two Americans getting married in Norway. Requirements may be different if you’re from another country or one person lives in Norway.

1. Before starting the process, both of you must have legal stay. To qualify for legal stay, you must have a residence permit, residence as an EU/EEA national, a visitor’s visa or a valid visa free stay. This must be an original document certified by a Norweigan public authority in Norwegian only.
2. Gather all the documents below.
   1. Separate personal declarations
   2. Statement by the sponsor that must be completed by one sponsor on each side
   3. A declaration concerning division if either of you have been married before.
   4. Passport and/or birth certificate. It must be original or a copy certified by a Norwegian public authority. If you use your passport, submit a copy verified by a Norwegian public authority, and not the original. The birth certificate must be legalized or endorsed with an apostille.
   5. A certificate from your home country showing that there is no impediment to you entering into marriage in Norway. The certificate must be original, and must be legalized or endorsed with an apostille.
3. Send all these documents to the Norwegian Tax Administration.
4. Once approved, the Norwegian Tax Administration will send you a marriage certificate.

Whew! That was a lot, wasn’t it? If you want more in-depth information about the process, check out this super helpful article that breaks down every document you need and the steps you need to take to get a marriage license as two foreigners.

If you’re not a foreign couple, check out this official website to complete your marriage license application online.

How to Get to Norway – Do I Need a Visa?

If you’re coming to Norway from the United States, you don’t need to get a visa unless you stay for over 90 days. However, it may be different for other countries.

If you fly into Norway, you’ll more than likely end up flying into Oslo, the capital of Norway. This airport has the cheapest flights in the country and is fairly close to all of the main attractions. If you visit the coast of Norway or some of the fjords, you’re better off flying into the Bergen Airport.

From Oslo, you can catch smaller flights to other parts of the country, rent a car, or utilize Norway’s public transportation system. Norway has a very efficient public transportation system. They have railways, buses, boats, and more. If you choose to rent a car, do so in advance, as renting a car in Norway is known to be a pricey, especially during peak season.

The Best Places to Stay in Norway

Norway has some of the most jaw dropping places to stay, whether it be right on the water or underneath the Northern Lights. Check out the list below for a list of some the coolest places you can find in some of Norway’s most well-known cities.

Oslo

Oslo is at the center of everything. Whether you’re looking for stunning landscapes or five-star dining, you’re sure to find it in the bustling city of Oslo.

• Townhouse in Central Oslo – Close to downtown, this Victorian home has a large layout with a private garden.
• Villa at Bygdøy – A luxurious, modern home suited for large groups with great views and a garden.
• Unique Factory Home – A stunning two-story home with large windows, lots of plants, and in a great location.

Bergen

An idyllic town located right on the coast of Norway. It’s surrounded by mountains, fjords, and offers a variety of different outdoor activities.

• Luxury Dome Cabin – A three-story home located on the water with stunning 360 degree views of the nearby town.
• The Green House – Located near downtown, this historic home has all the charm and character you can imagine.
• Nature Villa – A secluded villa tucked behind some trees with stunning views and modern amenities.

Lofoten Islands

One of the most visited and beautiful places in Norway, the Lofoten Islands, is home to not only some of the most incredible landscapes, but also some of the most incredible places to stay.

• Cottage by the Sea – A large, secluded cabin by the sea, just steps away from the mountains and the beach.
• Lofoten Home – A simple home perched right on the sea with a gorgeous back patio.
• Unique Rorbu – An architecturally gorgeous home with floor to ceiling windows right on the water.

Norway Activities for Your Elopement

One of my favorite parts of an elopement is capturing once-in-a-lifetime activities each of my couples get to experience. From wine tasting to whale watching and helicopter tours to horseback riding, Norway has something for everyone. Below are some ideas to help get you stated.

• Take a scenic train ride through the mountains
• Hop on a helicopter and get a private tour of the fjords
• Visit the famous cathedrals
• Take a ferry out on the water
• Go on a local food tour
• Drive on the Atlantic Road (absolutely stunning)
• Go hiking near the fjords
• Check out the Arctic Circle and watch the Northern Lights
• Go skiing at some fancy resorts
• Try fresh fish at local villages
• Take a wildlife tour
• Splurge on a 5-star dinner
• Hire a private guide to hike on a glacier
• Try some of the local cuisine
• Take a waterfall tour
• Try to spot a polar bear

Norway Elopement Timeline Examples

Need some elopement inspiration? Check out some of these timelines to get an idea of what your elopement could look like below!

12 Hour Elopement Timeline

• 11:00am – photographer (that’s me!) arrives at the cozy cabin in Sunnylven for getting ready pictures
• 12:00pm – first look between the couple out by the nearby lake
• 12:30pm – head to Geirangerfjord for the intimate ceremony, photos taken on the scenic drive there
• 2:00pm – begin the intimate ceremony overlooking the water
• 2:30pm – ceremony ends, begin exploring the area for your picnic
• 3:00pm – begin your intimate picnic, couples portraits after
• 4:30pm – head back to Sunnylven for cake, champagne, and gifts
• 6:00pm – arrive home and celebrate
• 7:00pm – start a bonfire in the backyard for s’mores and hot chocolate
• 8:30pm – head inside and watch videos sent in from family while eating your favorite food
• 9:30pm – drive to a nearby lake to watch the Northern Lights
• 10:00pm – arrive and setup with blankets and pillows to enjoy the lights
• 11:00pm – photo coverage wraps up, Brianna leaves

8 Hour Elopement Timeline

• 3:30am – photographer meets the couple at a nearby trailhead for a sunrise ceremony
• 3:45am – begin the hike to the secret overlook
• 5:00am – arrive and begin the intimate ceremony
• 5:30am – ceremony ends, take some couples portraits
• 6:30am – find a secluded spot for a breakfast picnic
• 7:30am – head back to the trailhead
• 9:00am – arrive and head to Oanes to explore the nearby fishing town
• 9:30am – begin exploring the village, eating some local cuisine, and taking photos along the way
• 11:30am – photo coverage wraps up, Brianna leaves

Norway Travel Tips: Everything You Should Know

Traveling internationally for an elopement can be quite intimidating. Here are a few must-know tips about Norway.

Language in Norway

Norway is a very English-friendly country, though some citizens are a bit shy to have a full conversation, you should have no problem reading or speaking in Iceland.

Payment in Norway

Paying with card is very common in Norway. Cash is not required, though is fun to get as a keepsake.

Northern Lights

The northern lights can be seen during the winter months, but only in northern Norway. Don’t expect to see a show near southern Norway.

Driving in Norway

In Norway, you drive on the right side of the road. While you definitely can get around Norway using public transportation, it’s pretty slow. I recommend renting a car. Oh, and the roads are very windy. If you get carsick, definitely be sure to bring some medicine!

Food and Tipping in Norway

Norway is known for having incredible breakfasts, especially at hotels. Don’t skip out on the chocolate, either! Tipping in Norway, specifically in restaurants, is becoming more common, especially in bigger cities, but it’s not expected.

Norway Elopement Packages

I’m Brianna, an elopement photographer based in the Pacific Northwest who specializes in planning and capturing elopements for couples all around the world. To see more information about my elopement package options, check out this page.

I also have all-inclusive elopement packages that cover plane tickets, lodging, rental cars, vendors, and so much – for the stree-free elopement experience you deserve.

Norway Elopement Packages

• 8 hours – 3 days of elopement coverage anywhere in Norway
• A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
  • Personalized elopement location recommendations
  • Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
  • Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
  • 90+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
  • Customized elopement timelines
  • Optional complimentary officiant services
• Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
• 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
• Travel fees to anywhere in Norway are already included
• Starting at $10,500

Want more elopement inspiration? Check out this Iceland Wedding Guide, Alaska Elopement Guide, and Patagonia Elopement Guide.