Yes, Oslo is generally considered a safe city for tourists, international visitors, students, families and residents. Norway has a strong public infrastructure, effective emergency services and a high level of public trust in the police.
However, Oslo is still a major European capital and visitors should take normal precautions. Theft, vandalism and some forms of violence do occur, particularly in busy central areas. Oslo's official statistics show that a significant share of reported crime occurs in the inner city, while the Oslo Police District continues to monitor local perceptions of safety and crime.
Oslo benefits from Norway's strong institutions, reliable emergency services and well-established police system. The Oslo Police District conducts local safety surveys to understand residents' experiences of public safety, perceived crime, police accessibility and trust in the police.
The 2025 Oslo Police District citizen survey found that 79% of respondents reported high or very high trust in the police, up from 74% in 2024. The result was also above the national figure reported in the same survey.
This does not mean that crime is absent. Like other capitals, Oslo experiences theft, property crime, disturbances and incidents of violence. The city's official statistics provide detailed crime information by category and geographical area.
The most useful way to think about safety in Oslo is to distinguish between ordinary everyday risks and more serious crime.
Central Oslo is generally busy and well-used by residents and visitors, but it is also important to understand that the centre accounts for a disproportionate share of reported crime.
Oslo Municipality reports that much of the city's crime occurs in the inner city, with youth crime particularly concentrated around Sentrum. This does not mean that central Oslo is generally unsafe, but it does mean that visitors should use normal urban safety precautions in busy areas.
Areas around major transport hubs and busy nightlife locations deserve particular awareness late at night, especially when crowds are present.
Oslo has many residential districts where visitors and residents can feel comfortable. Safety can vary within a neighbourhood, so the exact street, transport connection and surrounding environment matter.
Oslo is generally safe at night, but the same basic precautions that apply in other European capitals are sensible after dark.
The safest choice is usually not to take unnecessary risks simply because Oslo has a reputation for being safe.
Oslo's public transportation system is widely used by residents and visitors. Trams, buses, metro services and trains make it possible to travel around the city without a car.
As with public transportation in other large cities, passengers should pay attention to their belongings in crowded vehicles and at busy stations.
For most tourists, Oslo is a straightforward destination to explore. Visitors can walk through central areas, visit museums, use public transportation and enjoy restaurants and attractions while taking ordinary precautions.
Tourists should nevertheless remember that being in a safe country does not eliminate the possibility of theft or other incidents.
Oslo is a popular destination for international workers, students and families. The city has a large international population and extensive public services.
For long-term residents, safety also involves understanding local rules, registering correctly when required, learning how emergency services work and becoming familiar with the neighbourhood where you live.
If you are considering moving to Oslo, see our Life in Oslo for Expats guide for additional information.
Norway has separate emergency numbers for police, fire and medical emergencies. Use the appropriate number when immediate assistance is required.
| Service | Emergency Number |
|---|---|
| Police Emergency | 112 |
| Fire & Rescue | 110 |
| Medical Emergency / Ambulance | 113 |
Oslo is generally regarded as a safe European capital, but it should not be treated as completely crime-free. Different cities also measure and report crime differently, so simple international crime rankings can be misleading.
For a more useful assessment, visitors should look at specific types of crime, where incidents occur and current information from official authorities rather than relying only on generalized city rankings.
Oslo Municipality maintains an official statistics system containing information about crime in Oslo, including reported offences, victims and suspects. The municipality also publishes statistics at borough level, making it possible to examine differences between parts of the city.
The Oslo Police District also publishes reports on crime developments. Its 2025 figures recorded 86,380 reports with the offence location in the Oslo Police District. Police noted that part of the increase compared with 2024 was related to changes in digital reporting and registration processes, meaning the increase should not automatically be interpreted as an equivalent increase in underlying crime.
For the most current information, consult official Oslo Police and Oslo Municipality statistics rather than relying on old crime rankings.
Yes. Oslo is generally safe for tourists, although visitors should protect their belongings and use normal precautions in crowded areas and nightlife districts.
Generally yes, but extra caution is sensible late at night, particularly around busy nightlife areas, transport hubs and less populated streets.
Oslo is generally suitable for solo travellers. Stay aware of your surroundings, secure your valuables and avoid unnecessary risks, particularly after dark.
Yes. Oslo is a popular city for families and offers extensive parks, public transport, cultural attractions and public services.
Yes. Oslo is home to many international residents and is generally a safe place to live and work. Long-term residents should still become familiar with local rules and their neighbourhood.
For an immediate police emergency call 112. For fire emergencies call 110, and for serious medical emergencies call 113.
No. Oslo has reported theft, property crime, disturbances and violent incidents, as any large capital can. Official Oslo statistics show that crime is not evenly distributed throughout the city, with significant concentrations in the inner city.