Top Must-have Phone Apps in Norway for Tourist

Traveling as a tourist in Norway means relying heavily on your phone and internet connection to plan activities, navigate unfamiliar destinations, and enhance the overall experience. Some of the most useful apps tourists in Norway should have are maps and directions, translation, public transportation, and offline content downloaders. For ensuring easy internet access on the go, a prepaid eSIM online provides the most convenient and cost-effective solution for using online apps while sightseeing in Norway. Let’s explore these must-have apps and the best way to get internet access to fully utilize them during your trip.

I. Which Are the Must-have Phone Apps in Norway for Tourists?

When preparing for your trip to Norway, it’s crucial to equip your smartphone with the right tools. These apps will help you make the most of your visit, ensuring you can easily find Wi-Fi, communicate with loved ones back home, and navigate the beautiful Norwegian landscapes with confidence.

Wifi Finder Apps

While Norway generally has excellent internet infrastructure, finding free Wi-Fi spots can sometimes be challenging, especially in more remote areas. That’s where Wi-Fi finder apps come in handy.

• Wifi Map

With Wifi Map, you can filter results based on various criteria, such as connection speed or whether a password is required. This feature is particularly useful when you’re exploring Oslo’s bustling streets or searching for connectivity in the serene fjord regions.

One of the standout features of Wifi Map is its offline functionality. Before your trip, you can download maps of Norwegian cities or regions you plan to visit. This allows you to access Wi-Fi information even when you’re not connected to the internet, which can be a lifesaver in areas with limited cellular coverage.

• Wifi Finder

Another excellent option for locating Wi-Fi hotspots in Norway is the Wifi Finder app. This app boasts a database of over 5 million Wi-Fi locations worldwide, including numerous spots throughout Norway.

Wifi Finder offers a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy to find nearby hotspots quickly. The app provides detailed information about each Wi-Fi location, including the type of establishment (e.g., cafe, library, hotel) and whether a purchase is required to use the Wi-Fi.

Messenger/Calling Apps

Staying in touch with friends and family while traveling is important for many tourists. Fortunately, there are several excellent apps that make international communication easy and affordable.

• Skype

Skype has long been a go-to app for international communication, and it remains an excellent choice for tourists in Norway. This app offers voice calls, video calls, and instant messaging, all using internet data rather than traditional phone networks.

Skype also offers a translation feature, which can be helpful when communicating with Norwegian speakers. While not perfect, it can facilitate basic conversations and help bridge language barriers.

• WhatsApp

WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, and it’s an excellent choice for tourists in Norway. This versatile app offers text messaging, voice calls, video calls, and file sharing, all using internet data.

One of WhatsApp’s biggest advantages is its widespread adoption. The app is used by people all over the world, making it likely that you’ll be able to connect with both international and local contacts. This can be particularly useful if you need to communicate with Norwegian tour operators, accommodation hosts, or new friends you meet during your travels.

Essential Apps

While communication and internet access are crucial, there are several other apps that can significantly enhance your experience as a tourist in Norway. These apps can help you navigate language barriers, explore cities efficiently, and make the most of your Norwegian adventure.

• Google Translate

Google Translate is an indispensable tool for any international traveler, and it’s particularly useful in Norway. While many Norwegians speak excellent English, having a translation app can help you navigate menus, understand signs, and communicate in more remote areas where English might be less common.

The app offers text translation between Norwegian and numerous other languages, including English. You can type in text, speak into the microphone for voice translation, or use your phone’s camera to translate text in real-time – a feature that’s incredibly helpful for deciphering Norwegian menus or informational signs at tourist attractions.

• Citymapper

For tourists planning to explore Norway’s urban centers, Citymapper is an invaluable tool. While Google Maps is a great general-purpose navigation app, Citymapper specializes in public transportation and is particularly useful in cities.

Citymapper provides comprehensive, real-time information about public transportation options in Oslo, including buses, trams, metros, and ferries. The app offers clear, step-by-step directions for getting from point A to point B, often with multiple route options to choose from.

II. How Can I Get Internet for Using Phone Apps in Norway?

Having discussed the essential apps for your Norwegian adventure, it’s crucial to address how you can actually use these apps while in Norway. Internet connectivity is key to leveraging the full potential of your smartphone during your travels. Let’s explore the various options available for staying connected in Norway.

Purchase a prepaid SIM or eSIM

One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to get internet access in Norway is by purchasing a local prepaid SIM card or eSIM. This option provides you with a Norwegian phone number and data plan, allowing you to use your phone just like you would at home.

Prepaid SIM Cards

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available in Norway and can be purchased from various providers such as Telenor, Telia, Ice or MyCall. You can buy these SIM cards at the airport upon arrival, at convenience stores, or at the providers’ own shops in major cities.

When choosing a Norway prepaid SIM card, consider the following:

1. Coverage: Norway has excellent 4G coverage in most populated areas, but if you’re planning to visit remote regions, check the provider’s coverage map.
2. Data allowance: Ensure the plan includes enough data for your needs. Many tourists find that 5-10 GB is sufficient for a week-long trip, but adjust based on your usage habits.
3. Validity period: Make sure the plan’s validity covers your entire stay in Norway.
4. Additional features: Some plans might include free calls and texts within Norway or even to other countries.

To use a prepaid SIM, you’ll need an unlocked phone. If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, contact your home provider before your trip to unlock it.

eSIM

For travelers with eSIM-compatible devices, an eSIM can be an even more convenient option. Be sure to get yourself a reliable eSIM data plan from norwayesim.com to enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your exploration of the country. From navigating on maps to translating signs to booking last-minute activities – having the right phone apps is indispensable for tourists in Norway.

Their range of flexible eSIM plans for 3-30 days ensures travelers remain online from their first moments of landing until departure. With instant activation on your device and coverage on Norway’s high-quality networks, you can fully utilize useful travel apps without worrying about complicated roaming charges or switching SIM cards. 

Rent a pocket WiFi hotspot delivered to your hotel

For travelers who prefer not to change their SIM card or those with multiple devices to connect, renting a pocket WiFi hotspot for Norway trip can be an excellent solution. These small, portable devices create a private WiFi network that you can connect to with your phone, tablet, laptop, or any other WiFi-enabled device.

Several companies offer pocket WiFi rental services in Norway, often with the option to have the device delivered directly to your hotel. This service typically includes:

The advantages of renting a pocket WiFi hotspot include:

1. Multiple device connectivity: Ideal for families or groups traveling together
2. No need to change your SIM card: You keep your home number active

Renting a pocket WiFi can be particularly useful if you’re traveling to multiple Scandinavian countries, as many rental services offer plans that work across borders without additional fees.

Free WiFi

While not as reliable as having your own data plan or WiFi hotspot, free WiFi is widely available throughout Norway, especially in urban areas. Many public spaces, cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free WiFi to customers and visitors. It is recommended to use a VPN for more secure internet access.

To make the most of free WiFi options, consider using WiFi finder apps like those mentioned earlier to locate hotspots in your vicinity.

III. Tips for Using Apps in Norway

Now that we’ve covered the essential apps and how to stay connected in Norway, let’s delve into some practical tips for using these apps effectively during your Norwegian adventure. These insights will help you navigate potential challenges and make the most of your digital tools while exploring this beautiful Scandinavian country.

Disable data roaming

Unless you have an international data plan, it’s wise to turn off data roaming before you leave your home country. This prevents your phone from automatically connecting to Norwegian cellular networks and incurring hefty roaming charges. On most smartphones, you can find this option in your Settings under “Cellular” or “Mobile Data.”

Enable WiFi calling

If your carrier and phone support it, enable WiFi calling before your trip. This feature allows you to make and receive calls over WiFi networks, which can be a lifesaver in areas with poor cellular coverage or if you’re relying solely on WiFi for connectivity.

Update your apps

Ensure all your essential apps are up-to-date before leaving for Norway. This not only ensures you have the latest features but also helps avoid large updates over potentially slow or limited connections while traveling.

Download offline content

Many apps, including Google Maps, Google Translate, and some travel guide apps, allow you to download content for offline use. Take advantage of this feature before your trip:

1. In Google Maps, download offline maps for the Norwegian cities and regions you plan to visit
2. In Google Translate, download the Norwegian language pack
3. For travel guide apps, download city guides or entire country guides if available

This preparation will allow you to access crucial information even when you’re in areas with limited or no internet connectivity.

IV. FAQs

V. Final Thought

Overall, having the right phone apps and strategies for staying connected can greatly enhance your visit to Norway. From accessing essential travel information to navigating the breathtaking scenery, knowing how to employ technology effectively can enrich your experience in this stunning part of the world. By purchasing a Norway eSIM as an alternative, there’s no need to feel disconnected on your journey