Norwegians are very keen on sports, with around a third of the population reportedly participating regularly in some form of sporting activity. Winter sports are especially popular, and include various forms of skiing, alpine skating and snowboarding. Hiking and cycling are popular summer sporting pursuits. River sports including kayaking and rafting are also popular. Public swimming pools can be found in most cities and main towns.

Oslo and the other main cities offer a range of arts and entertainment facilities, including cinemas, theatres, nightclubs and discos. Entertainment is often held in the hotels and major restaurants. Restaurants are expensive in Norway, so dining out tends to be an occasional treat.

Shops in Norway close early, mostly by 5 p.m. on weekdays and 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Most shops are closed on Sundays. Some supermarkets and shopping malls now have extended opening hours until 8 p.m.

Norway has a rich culture, which is often celebrated in traditional song and costume-wearing, especially on the biggest public holiday, Constitution Day, on 17th May. On Midsummer's Eve, usually on 23rd June, celebrations are held on the beaches. The main Sami celebrations are at Easter, and include reindeer racing, and traditional concerts.