Talking about hobbies is a great way to connect with Norwegians. Whether you’re into hiking, painting, or something niche like friluftsliv (outdoor life), this guide will help you describe your interests naturally.
Basic Hobby Phrases
Start with these simple sentences to share what you enjoy:
- Jeg liker å gå på tur. (I like hiking.)
- Min hobby er å male. (My hobby is painting.)
- Jeg elsker å lese bøker. (I love reading books.)
Outdoor Activities
Norwegians adore the outdoors. Here’s how to talk about it:
Friluftsliv
/ˈfriːlʉftˌliːv/“Outdoor life”
A Norwegian philosophy embracing outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and camping.
| Norwegian | English |
|---|---|
| Skigåing | Skiing |
| Fiske | Fishing |
| Klatre | Climbing |
Tip: Norwegians often bond over shared outdoor experiences. Mentioning a recent hike or ski trip is a great conversation starter.
Indoor Hobbies
Not everyone thrives in the cold. Here’s vocabulary for cosier pastimes:
- Strikking (Knitting)
- Baking (Baking)
- Spille instrumenter (Playing instruments)
For more on cultural activities, check out our guide on Norwegian holiday traditions.
Asking About Hobbies
To keep the conversation flowing, try these questions:
- Hva liker du å gjøre i fritiden? (What do you like to do in your free time?)
- Har du noen hobbyer? (Do you have any hobbies?)
- Driver du med noen sporter? (Do you play any sports?)
Pair this with our guide to Norwegian compliments to make your conversations even smoother.
Remember: Norwegians appreciate sincerity. If you’re genuinely curious about their interests, they’ll likely open up.



