Oslo Norway

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Oslo, Norway

Welcome to Oslo, the vibrant capital city of Norway! Located on the southern coast of Norway, Oslo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat and stay, and essential information to make your trip to Oslo an unforgettable experience.

Places to Visit

Landmarks

  • Akershus Fortress: A medieval castle that dates back to 1299, offering stunning views of the city.
  • Oslo Opera House: A futuristic building with a unique design and excellent acoustics.
  • Vigeland Sculpture Park: Home to over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, including the famous “Monolith.”
  • Museum of Contemporary Art (Lillehammer): While not in Oslo city center, this museum is worth visiting if you’re interested in contemporary art.

Museums

  • National Gallery of Art: Features an impressive collection of Norwegian and international art.
  • Vigeland Museum: Showcases the works of Gustav Vigeland, with a focus on his sculptures.
  • Bygdøy Peninsula: A historical area with several museums, including the Viking Ship Museum.

Parks and Gardens

  • Frogner Park (Lille Skensvannet): A beautiful park with walking trails and plenty of green space.
  • Oslo Botanical Garden: Home to over 3,500 plant species from around the world.

Things to Do

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore Oslo’s many parks and forests on foot or by bike.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent equipment and paddle through the city’s canals.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Visit one of Oslo’s nearby ski resorts during the winter months.

Cultural Experiences

  • Visit a Market: The Mathallen food hall and the Grünerløkka market offer a taste of local culture.
  • Attend a Festival: Oslo hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Oslo Jazz Festival and the Hovedstadens Frikirke (Capital City’s Gospel) festival.
  • Take a Food Tour: Sample traditional Norwegian cuisine on a guided tour.

Shopping

  • Grünerløkka: A trendy neighborhood with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Aker Brygge: An outdoor shopping center with waterfront views.
  • Torgata: A historic area with unique shops and a lively atmosphere.

Where to Eat

Traditional Norwegian Cuisine

  • Dill Restaurant: Offers modern Scandinavian cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • Fiskeriet: Serves fresh seafood and traditional dishes like meatballs and gravlax.
  • Bøkerne og Caféen: A cafe with a menu of traditional Norwegian comfort food.

International Cuisine

  • Lysverket: Offers modern, farm-to-table cuisine with an international twist.
  • Kaffebar: A cozy cafe serving coffee and baked goods from around the world.
  • Restaurant Lysaker: Serves Italian-inspired dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Grand Hotel Oslo: A 5-star hotel located in the city center, offering stunning views of the harbor.
  • Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Oslo: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Thon Hotel Opera: A stylish hotel located near the Oslo Opera House.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Generator Oslo Hostel: A social hostel with dorms and private rooms, offering a lively atmosphere.
  • Pilot Oslo Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with cozy rooms and a relaxed vibe.
  • Airbnb: Rent an apartment or room through Airbnb for a more local experience.

Transportation

Public Transportation

  • Buses: An efficient public transportation system covering the entire city.
  • Trams: A convenient way to travel around Oslo, with several tram lines available.
  • Subway: A quick and easy way to get around the city, with two subway lines.

Taxi Services

  • Taxi Oslo: A reliable taxi service with English-speaking drivers.
  • Uber: Available in Oslo, but be aware that prices may surge during peak hours.

Tips and Essentials

Safety

  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: As with any city, take care of your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Respect Local Customs: Norway is known for its welcoming culture; respect local customs and traditions to make the most of your visit.

Language

  • Norwegian Language: While many Oslo residents speak English fluently, it’s still appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn basic Norwegian phrases.
  • Signs and Menus: Many signs and menus are translated into English, but it’s always helpful to know some Norwegian words to enhance your experience.

Weather

  • Rainfall: Oslo experiences a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year; be prepared with waterproof clothing and an umbrella.
  • Sunshine: When the sun does come out, enjoy the long days during the summer months (June to August).

Additional Tips

Money Matters

  • Currency: The Norwegian krone is the official currency in Norway. You can exchange your money at a bank or use an ATM.
  • Credit Cards: Most businesses accept major credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Electronics and Internet

  • Power Adapters: Make sure you have the correct power adapter for charging your devices (Type F).
  • Internet Access: Many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi; ask staff if you’re unsure.