Sauna Rules in Norway: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Norway's relationship with sauna is different from Finland's in important ways. Finnish sauna culture has been refined over two thousand years and is embedded in the national identity. Norwegian sauna culture is younger — significantly influenced by Finnish tradition but with its own character, shaped by the country's dramatic landscapes, strong outdoor culture, and emphasis on the fjord and sea.

Understanding how Norwegian sauna norms work will help you feel comfortable and get the most from your visit.

Nudity: More Flexible Than Finland

In traditional Finnish saunas, nudity is standard and expected. Norwegian sauna culture is more flexible.

At most floating saunas and urban sauna venues in Norway — including Oslo's most popular options — swimwear is common and perfectly acceptable. Many venues actively cater to both preferences, with some sessions designated as mixed swimwear and others as nudist. The vast majority of tourist-oriented venues are swimwear-friendly.

In older, more traditional Norwegian saunas (common in rural areas and some sports facilities), nudity is more standard, as it would be in Finland. When in doubt, bring swimwear and ask on arrival.

The Cold Water Jump

At floating saunas and coastal venues, jumping or entering the water after the sauna is not just permitted — it is the expected culmination of the experience. This is part of Norwegian outdoor bathing culture (friluftsliv) and distinguishes many Norwegian sauna venues from their international counterparts.

Hesitating at the top of the ladder for too long will be noticed — and gently encouraged. The jump itself is the moment, and Norwegians embrace it with a directness that is infectious. Visitors who try it are invariably glad they did.

In Oslo, jumping into the fjord from floating sauna platforms is a year-round activity. In January, the water temperature is typically 2–4°C. Acclimatise slowly if this is your first experience of genuinely cold water.

Shower Before Entering

This is universal in Norwegian sauna venues and is taken seriously. Shower facilities are provided at all well-run venues specifically for pre-sauna washing. Entering the sauna without showering first is considered unhygienic and disrespectful.

Phones and Screens

Norwegian sauna venues — particularly the newer urban ones that attract a younger, design-conscious clientele — are strict about phone use in the sauna and relaxation areas. Many explicitly prohibit phones in the sauna room and strongly discourage their use in adjacent areas.