Oslo

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Oslo

Oslo, the capital city of Norway, is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast. Located on the shores of the Oslofjord, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. From its stunning architecture to its world-class museums and attractions, Oslo has something to offer every kind of traveller.

Places to Go

  1. Akershus Fortress: This 14th-century castle is one of Norway’s most important historical sites and a must-visit for anyone interested in history.
  2. Vigeland Sculpture Park: Home to over 200 sculptures by famous Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland, this park is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city.
  3. National Gallery of Art: Featuring an impressive collection of Norwegian art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as international pieces.
  4. Museum of Contemporary Art (Kunsthall Oslo): Showcasing modern and contemporary art from Norway and around the world.
  5. Oslo Cathedral (Domkirke): A beautiful Gothic-style cathedral that’s a great place to learn about Norway’s history and culture.

Activities

  1. Take a stroll along the Akerselva River: This picturesque river runs through the heart of Oslo and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
  2. Visit the Mathallen food hall: A modern food hall that features some of Oslo’s best restaurants, cafes, and shops.
  3. Go shopping at Youngstorget: This vibrant shopping street is home to everything from high-end boutiques to quirky independent stores.
  4. Explore the trendy Grünerløkka neighborhood: Known for its hip bars, restaurants, and boutique shops.
  5. Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Huk and Frogner: These charming islands offer beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and stunning views.

Where to Eat

  1. Lysverket: A Michelin-starred restaurant that serves modern Norwegian cuisine in a beautifully restored building.
  2. Fiskeriet: A popular seafood restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and great views of the fjord.
  3. Mathallen food hall: As mentioned earlier, this modern food hall features some of Oslo’s best restaurants, cafes, and shops.
  4. Maaemo: A Michelin-starred restaurant that serves innovative Norwegian cuisine in a beautiful setting.
  5. Kjøttkaker: A popular restaurant serving traditional Norwegian meatballs and other local specialties.

Where to Stay

  1. The Grand Hotel Oslo: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the fjord.
  2. The Thief: A modern boutique hotel that features a rooftop bar with great views of the city.
  3. The Clarion Hotel Oslo: A comfortable and convenient hotel with easy access to public transportation.
  4. The Anker Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that’s perfect for backpackers and solo travellers.
  5. The Inderøy Guest House: A charming B&B located in a quiet neighborhood, with a cozy atmosphere and great views of the fjord.

Things to Know

  1. Language: Norwegian is the official language, but most Oslo residents speak English fluently.
  2. Currency: The Norwegian krone (NOK) is the local currency.
  3. Weather: Oslo’s weather is mild and temperate, with average highs of around 20°C (68°F) in summer and 0°C (32°F) in winter.
  4. Safety: Oslo is a very safe city, with low crime rates compared to other major cities.
  5. Tipping: Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service.

Transportation

  1. Public Transportation: Oslo has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trams that cover the entire city.
  2. Walking: Walking is a great way to explore Oslo’s compact city centre.
  3. Biking: Oslo has a bike-sharing scheme and many bike lanes, making it easy to get around by bike.
  4. Taxi: Taxis are widely available but can be expensive.

Tips

  1. Buy a public transportation card: It’s easy and convenient to buy a card that covers all your bus and tram fares.
  2. Try traditional Norwegian cuisine: Oslo has many restaurants serving delicious local specialties like fish, meatballs, and waffles.
  3. Visit the city’s museums: Oslo has many world-class museums, including the National Gallery of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
  4. Take a stroll along the fjord: The Oslofjord is a beautiful and peaceful place to walk and enjoy the views.
  5. Explore the trendy neighborhoods: Grünerløkka, Frogner, and Youngstorget are all worth exploring for their unique shops, bars, and restaurants.

Other Things of Interest

  1. Oslo’s Christmas market: Held in the city centre every year, this festive market features stalls selling local crafts, food, and drinks.
  2. The Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra: This world-class orchestra performs at the Oslo Concert Hall.
  3. The Museum of Design and Architecture (Museum for Design og Arkitektur): Showcasing Norway’s most important design and architecture.
  4. The National Theatre (Nationalteateret): A historic theatre that hosts a wide range of performances, including classical music, dance, and drama.
  5. The Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology (Vitensenter for teknologi og matematiske fag): A fun and interactive museum that’s perfect for families.

Conclusion

Oslo is a wonderful city to visit, with its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and beautiful natural surroundings. From its trendy neighborhoods to its historic landmarks, there’s something for every kind of traveller in Oslo. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, Oslo has plenty to offer. So come and explore this vibrant city – we look forward to welcoming you!