Things To Do
in Nannestad
Nannestad is a small rural municipality in Viken County just north of Oslo, known for its farmland, forests, and family-friendly charm. The area blends traditional villages with easy access to the Oslo metropolitan region and Gardermoen Airport. Lakes and woodlands invite outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to birdwatching and canoeing.
Visitors can enjoy a calm countryside atmosphere while remaining within reach of city amenities and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local Nannestad church, a beautifully preserved structure that offers a glimpse into the town's history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, admiring the traditional Nordic architecture that reflects the area's rich heritage. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a warm cup of coffee and freshly baked pastries.
Spend your afternoon at the Nannestad Cultural Center where you can learn about local art, history, and crafts. Engage with the exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists and discover more about the traditions of the region. You can also join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the town's cultural significance.
As the sun sets, dine at a cozy restaurant that specializes in traditional Norwegian cuisine, sampling dishes such as reindeer stew or fresh fish from the fjords. After dinner, take a peaceful walk around the town square, where you can enjoy the ambiance and perhaps catch a local music performance or event. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby pub, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Begin your day with a visit to the scenic hiking trails in the nearby forests, taking in the fresh air and beautiful natural surroundings. As you walk, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and perhaps even deer. Capture the stunning vistas of the rolling hills and valleys that define the Nannestad landscape.
After your morning hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated rest areas, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning lakes in the vicinity, where you can engage in activities like fishing or kayaking. The serene waters offer a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
Return to Nannestad for a casual dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where the fresh catch of the day is a must-try. As dusk settles, take a moment to soak in the serene views of the lake reflecting the colors of the sunset. Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (one-way) | $5-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $100-180 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, scenic countryside close to Oslo
- Friendly locals and strong safety culture
- Good access to nature and outdoor activities
- Efficient public services and proximity to Gardermoen Airport
- Limited nightlife and dining options within Nannestad itself
- Higher general cost of living in Norway
- Longer travel times to some regional attractions compared with bigger cities
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Hvor er [sted]?" - Where is [place]?
- "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hva koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kan jeg få menyen på engelsk?" - Could I have the menu in English?
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Jeg forstår ikke" - I don't understand
- "Kan du hjelpe meg?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Nannestad
Visit one of these nice places.
Timber and red-brick church with surrounding fields and traditional Norwegian rural architecture, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
Quiet water vistas with reflections of trees and sky; ideal for golden hour photography and birdlife.
Neo-classical government building with stately lines and well-kept grounds; great for exterior architecture photography and night shots.
expansive agricultural landscapes that offer dramatic horizon lines during sunset.
Food in Nannestad
Nannestad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional autumn dish of lamb and cabbage with potatoes, slow-cooked for rich, comforting flavor.
Must-Try!
Norwegian meatballs usually served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberries for a classic family-style meal.
Creamy porridge made with sour cream, often served with sugar, cinnamon, and cured meat on the side.
Cured salmon served with dill, mustard sauce, and flatbread or potatoes; a common choice at local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering berries, cheeses, bread, and honey from local farms—great for picking up fresh snacks.
Seasonal produce along rural roads; look for fresh berries, mushrooms, potatoes, and preserves in season.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Norwegians value punctuality; being on time is considered respectful in both business and social settings.
A brief handshake is typical when meeting someone; polite small talk is common but not overly personal.
In homes, it’s customary to remove shoes unless invited to keep floors clean.
Norwegians tend to be reserved; give others personal space and avoid intrusive questions in initial meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Nannestad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. Rounding up or leaving about 5-10% in restaurants is common for good service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with frequent rain showers; gradual green-up and blooming wildflowers make for fresh, vibrant photos and pleasant outdoor walks.
Long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures, and many outdoor activities; occasional showers but great for hiking and cycling.
Cooler days with crisp air and beautiful foliage; perfect for scenic drives, harvest markets, and cozy dining experiences.
Cold and snowy with shorter days; ideal for winter sports like cross-country skiing and peaceful snow-covered landscapes.
Nannestad at Night
Hiking in Nannestad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast network of well-marked trails suitable for day hikes, accessible by short travel from Oslo and reachable for longer day trips from Nannestad.
Another extensive forest area offering scenic loops, lakes, and picnic spots close to the Oslo metro area.
Short, scenic hikes around nearby lakes with gentle elevation gain and rewarding viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Nannestad by plane.
Main international hub for the region; about a 40–60 minute drive from Nannestad or accessible by train to Oslo and onward transport.
A longer international option about 250–300 km from Nannestad; typically reachable by road or rail with transfer through Oslo or Gothenburg routes.
Lesser-used international airport to the south of Oslo; variety of budget routes and roughly 1.5–2 hours by car from Nannestad.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households are families with children, reflecting a family-friendly rural community.
A portion of residents commute to Oslo or larger towns for work, given the region’s proximity to the capital.
Visitors seek a quiet base with easy access to nature and Nordic culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely practiced in winter across forested areas and open fields near Nannestad.
Local and school teams plus casual kick-arounds are common in village spaces.
Popular team sport in community centers and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nannestad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Norwegian menus increasingly offer vegetarian options; look for salads, vegetable-centered dishes, and starchy sides. When in doubt, ask about stock, sauces, and how dishes can be adapted.