How much to budget for food during a one-week trip to southern Norway?

Planning a trip to the picturesque landscapes of southern Norway is an exciting endeavor. However, one of the key aspects to consider while planning your trip is the budget for food. Norway is known for its high cost of living, which directly impacts the cost of food. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how much to budget for food during a one-week trip to southern Norway.

Understanding the Cost of Food in Norway

Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. The cost of food is significantly higher than in many other European countries. On average, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant would cost around 150-200 NOK (Norwegian Krone), which is approximately 17-23 USD. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost anywhere between 600-1000 NOK (70-116 USD).

Breakfast Budget

Breakfast in Norway is usually a simple affair, consisting of coffee, bread, and some form of protein like cheese or cold cuts. If your accommodation includes breakfast, you can save a significant amount. However, if you need to buy breakfast, budget around 50-100 NOK (6-12 USD) per day.

Lunch and Dinner Budget

For lunch and dinner, if you plan to eat at inexpensive restaurants or fast food chains, budget around 150-200 NOK (17-23 USD) per meal. If you prefer mid-range restaurants, budget around 300-500 NOK (35-58 USD) per meal. Keep in mind that these are average prices and can vary depending on the restaurant and the city.

Snacks and Drinks Budget

Snacks and drinks can add up quickly to your food budget. A coffee can cost around 30-50 NOK (3.5-6 USD), while a beer can cost around 80-100 NOK (9-12 USD). If you plan to have a couple of snacks and drinks each day, budget around 100-200 NOK (12-23 USD) per day.

Supermarket Budget

If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying food from supermarkets and cooking your meals. A week’s worth of groceries can cost around 500-700 NOK (58-81 USD) per person. This can significantly reduce your food budget.

Overall Food Budget

Considering all the factors, a reasonable daily food budget for southern Norway would be around 400-800 NOK (46-93 USD) per person. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a couple of snacks and drinks. Therefore, for a one-week trip, budget around 2800-5600 NOK (325-650 USD) per person for food.

Remember, these are average prices and actual costs can vary. It’s always a good idea to have some extra budget for unexpected expenses. Enjoy your trip to Norway and its delicious cuisine!