Things To Do
in Askim

Askim is a small town in Viken County, Norway, located about 40 kilometers southeast of Oslo. It sits amid green farmland and forested hills, offering easy access to nature while staying within reach of city amenities. The town center features traditional wooden houses, a relaxed community vibe, and walkable streets ideal for daytime exploring.

Visitors can blend outdoor adventures with cozy cafés and family-friendly attractions in a peaceful Nordic setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Idyllic Shores
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the beautiful shores of Askim Fjord. The morning sun reflects off the water, creating a picturesque scene perfect for photography. Take a moment to enjoy a warm cup of coffee at a local cafe while soaking in the serene views.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting the Askim Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the town. Engage with interactive exhibits and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this heritage site. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the nearby parks, where you can appreciate nature and perhaps spot local wildlife.

evening
:

As evening falls, dine at one of Askim's cozy restaurants serving traditional Norwegian cuisine. Savor fresh, locally sourced ingredients while enjoying the welcoming ambiance. After dinner, take a walk under the stars, admiring the clear night sky free from city lights.

day 2
Visit the Local Market
morning
:

Wake up early and head to the Askim market to start your day with vibrant local flavors. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, homemade crafts, and artisanal products while mingling with friendly locals. Enjoy breakfast from local vendors, sampling traditional goods and pastries.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take part in a guided tour of a nearby farm, where you can engage with animals and experience rural life in Norway. Learn about sustainable farming practices and the importance of local food production. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush landscape, surrounded by scenic views.

evening
:

For the evening, attend a community event, like a folk music concert or local dance at a town hall. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere filled with laughter, music, and a sense of togetherness. End the night by enjoying a nightcap at a local pub, sharing stories with newfound friends.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🚌Public transport (day pass)$8-12
🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range)$90-150
Coffee at cafe$3-5
🧀Local cheese or groceries$6-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Safe and clean environment
  • Nature-friendly activities within easy reach
  • Short travel times to Oslo and surrounding areas
  • Friendly, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
  • Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale venues
  • Smaller selection of restaurants and accommodations compared to bigger cities
  • "Hei" - Hello
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Hva koster det?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kan jeg få regningen, takk?" - Could I have the bill, please?

Places to Visit in Askim

Visit one of these nice places.

Askim Church

A historic white wooden church with a red roof, ideal for classic Norwegian church exterior shots and quiet interior photos.

Glomma River Promenade

A scenic riverside path with reflections at dawn or dusk; great for long-exposure shots of water and trees.

Basmo Nature Reserve Viewpoint

Forest trails and vantage points offering sweeping valley and woodland photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Askim

Norwegian cuisine in Askim emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on fish, berries, dairy, and hearty comfort dishes. Expect simple, comforting flavors and plenty of seafood options, with opportunities to sample local produce at markets and cafés.

Askim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fiskekaker with dill sauce

Norwegian fish cakes served with boiled potatoes and dill sauce, a comforting coastal-inland staple.

Must-Try!

Fårikål

Mutton stew with cabbage, a beloved autumn dish across eastern Norway.

Rømmegrøt

A traditional porridge served with sugar, cinnamon, and cured meat on the side; typically enjoyed in colder months.

Gravlaks

Cured salmon sliced thin and served with mustard-dill sauce; widely available in local eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Askim Market Square (Saturday market)

A small, seasonal market in the town center offering local dairy, berries, bread, and prepared foods.

Mysen Farmers Market

A nearby market with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional treats accessible by local transport.

Climate Guide

Weather

Askim experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. Winter temperatures often dip below freezing, with regular snowfall, while summer days are typically pleasant with temperatures in the 15–25°C range. The area can be rainy year-round, so layerable clothing and a waterproof layer are recommended.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Punctuality is valued; arrive on time for appointments or meetings.

Greetings

A simple “Hei” or “Hallo” with a handshake is common in formal settings; in casual situations, a nod or smile may suffice.

Quiet public behavior

Norwegians tend to speak softly in public and value personal space; avoid loud conversations in public transport or shared spaces.

Respect for nature

Practice the right of public access (allemannsretten): respect private property, keep paths clean, and avoid leaving litter.

Safety Guide

Safety

Askim is generally very safe with a low crime rate. Standard travel precautions apply: stay aware of your surroundings at night, keep valuables secure, and follow road safety rules in winter conditions. Emergency numbers in Norway are 112 (police), 110 (fire), and 113 (medical).

Tipping in Askim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not obligatory in Norway; rounding up or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated but not expected in most eateries and bars.

Payment Methods

Cash is accepted but most places prefer and support card payments, contactless payments, and mobile apps like Vipps. In shops and cafes, cards and mobile payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long daylight hours, mild to warm temperatures, and lush greenery. Great for outdoor strolling, riverside photography, and day trips to nearby nature areas.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and cooler days. Perfect for hikes and market visits; bring a light jacket and comfortable footwear.

Winter

Cold with possible snow and short days. Ideal for cozy cafés, winter landscapes, and quiet river scenes; dress in layers and waterproof footwear.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming plants and increasing daylight. Great for outdoor activities and capturing fresh greenery.

Nightlife Guide

Askim at Night

Askim’s nightlife is intimate and low-key, centered around cozy pubs, cafés, and occasional live music events. Most evenings are quiet, family-friendly, and suitable for relaxing conversations rather than clubbing. Nearby larger towns offer a wider selection of bars and seasonal events, but Askim rewards visitors with a laid-back, village-friend vibe.

Hiking in Askim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Glomma River Riverside Trail

Easy, scenic route along the river suitable for all ages.

Basmo Nature Reserve Trails

Forest loops with varied terrain and vantage points.

Askim Forest Loop

Gentle, shaded circuits ideal for family hikes and relaxed explorations.

Airports

How to reach Askim by plane.

Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL)

Norway’s main international gateway, about an hour’s drive or reachable by train from Oslo; serves numerous international and domestic flights.

Oslo Torp Sandefjord Airport (TRF)

Alternative international airport, typically used by low-cost carriers; roughly a 1.5–2 hour journey from Askim by road or rail.

Moss Airport, Rygge (RYG)

Previously served as a regional airport; most international travel now goes through OSL or TRF. Check current schedules if considering legacy routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Askim’s town center is compact and highly walkable, with a pleasant riverside path and many services within a short stroll. For longer excursions, public transport or a short drive makes exploration easy without a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families commuting to nearby towns for work and education.

Retirees

A number of older residents who enjoy active community life and local clubs.

Young professionals

People who work in Oslo or surrounding towns choosing a quieter residence.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cross-country skiing

A staple winter sport with nearby trails and tracks suitable for all levels.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and informal games on community fields.

Handball

Active indoor sport with local teams and matches during the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Askim is generally light to moderate, with reliable local buses and access to the Østfold railway network. Winter weather can cause occasional delays, so plan for extra travel time during snow and ice conditions. For city trips to Oslo, the rail line offers a convenient alternative to driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Askim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many cafés offer vegetarian soups, salads, and vegetable-based dishes. When in doubt, ask for vegetable sides or a mushroom/veg-centered dish; most places can accommodate dairy-free options if requested.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Norway has universal healthcare; residents and visitors can access general practitioners and hospitals through the public system. In Askim, you’ll find local GP clinics and easy access to larger hospitals in the region. Travel insurance or confirmation of coverage is advised for visitors, and emergency numbers are 112 (police), 110 (fire), and 113 (medical).

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide