Things To Do
in Oslo
Nestled among rolling hills and fjords, this city is the capital of Norway, boasting a vibrant mix of modern architecture and historic sites, including the medieval Akershus Fortress. It's renowned for its museums, such as the Fram Museum and the Munch Museum, alongside the sprawling Frogner Park with its iconic Vigeland sculptures.
As an environmentally conscious city, it places a strong emphasis on sustainability, reflected in its public transport system and numerous green spaces.
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
- "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Opera House, where you can walk on the roof for stunning views of the city. Afterward, visit the nearby Aker Brygge for a coffee by the waterfront.
Visit the incredible Nobel Peace Center to learn about the city's history of peace and diplomacy. Wander through the beautiful streets of the city center and explore local shops.
Dine at one of the many restaurants along the Aker Brygge promenade. Enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the harbor.
Start your adventure at Frogner Park, home to the famous Vigeland sculptures. Spend some time walking among the lush greenery and unique artworks.
Head to the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower for spectacular views of the city and a glimpse into Norway's skiing history. Consider taking a short hike in the surrounding areas.
Relax with dinner in the nearby Frognerseteren restaurant, known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine. Enjoy the picturesque scenery while unwinding from your day's activities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- High quality of life and strong social welfare system
- Beautiful natural surroundings including fjords and forests
- Rich cultural scene with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals
- Safe city with low crime rates
- Highly educated population and strong economy
- Excellent public transportation system
- High cost of living and expensive housing
- Cold winters with limited daylight
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Cultural differences may be challenging for newcomers
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Possible language barriers for non-Norwegian speakers
Best Activities in Oslo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful forests and lakes just outside of Oslo by hiking in Nordmarka.
Enjoy a sailing trip in the scenic Oslo Fjord and take in the stunning views of the coastline and islands.
Rent a bike and cycle around the picturesque Bygdøy peninsula, visiting museums and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oslo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oslo
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Oslo and the surrounding fjord
Scenic park with viewpoints overlooking the city and fjord
Architectural splendor with a rooftop offering stunning views
Beautiful sculptures set in a large park, perfect for photography
Food in Oslo
Oslo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Scandinavian specialty, gravlaks is thinly sliced, cured salmon, often served with mustard sauce, toast, or in wraps. Try it at Mathallen Food Hall or the Vulkan fish market.
Must-Try!
Lutefisk is traditionally made from aged stockfish (whitefish), soaked in water and lye. It's a polarizing dish, but a must-try for those seeking an authentic Norwegian experience. Visit traditional Norwegian restaurants like Engebret Café or Theatercaféen to sample this dish.
Raspeballer are hearty potato dumplings often filled with a savory meatball, served with melted butter, bacon, and lingonberry sauce. Seek out local pubs and traditional eateries in Oslo to try this classic Norwegian comfort food.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oslo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the Grünerløkka district, Mathallen offers a wide array of local and international food vendors, with everything from artisanal cheeses and craft beers to sushi and traditional Norwegian dishes. It's a great spot to sample a variety of foods in one place.
This indoor food market at Torggata Bad features a diverse range of food stalls offering global cuisine, including Norwegian specialties, vegan options, and international street food. The lively atmosphere and communal seating make it a popular choice for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oslo, it is important to respect personal space and avoid physical contact when interacting with others, including handshakes and hugs, unless initiated by the other person.
Being punctual is highly valued in Oslo, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings.
Norwegians appreciate silence and tend to speak softly, so it is respectful to maintain a quiet and calm demeanor, especially in public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oslo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oslo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Oslo, Norway, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. It is, however, appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip if the service was exceptional.
Payment in Oslo, Norway is predominantly cashless, with most businesses accepting credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment methods such as Vipps. Cash is still accepted but is becoming less common.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oslo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Oslo is a beautiful time to visit, with milder temperatures and the city coming to life with blossoming flowers and greenery. This is a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the parks and gardens.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Oslo, with long daylight hours and a lively atmosphere. The city hosts numerous outdoor festivals, and it's a perfect time for hiking, boating, and enjoying the waterfront areas.
Fall brings stunning foliage colors to Oslo, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather starts to cool, and it's a nice time to experience local harvest festivals and explore the surrounding countryside.
Winter in Oslo is cold and snowy, but the city transforms into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy winter sports, skating, and the enchanting Christmas markets. It's also a great time to experience the Northern Lights in the surrounding areas.
Oslo at Night
Hiking in Oslo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast forested region located just north of Oslo, offering a variety of trails, lakes, and scenic viewpoints.
A large nature area surrounding Oslo, perfect for hiking, with well-marked trails and beautiful landscapes.
A park that combines art, culture, and nature, providing several hiking paths with stunning views of Oslo and the fjord.
Located west of Oslo, this area offers excellent hiking opportunities with various trails among the hills and forests.
A popular hiking destination, known for its panoramic views over Oslo and the surrounding areas, with several routes to choose from.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oslo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oslo by plane.
Main international airport serving Oslo and the surrounding region.
International airport located approximately 110 km south of Oslo, primarily serving low-cost airlines.
Former international airport located about 60 km south of Oslo, now mostly serves domestic flights.
International airport located approximately 200 km west of Oslo, serving the Stavanger region.
International airport located about 460 km west of Oslo, serving the Bergen region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
People of Norwegian ethnicity or nationality, making up the largest demographic group in Oslo.
Includes individuals from countries such as Poland, Lithuania, and Romania, contributing significantly to the population.
A notable group in Oslo, often part of the larger Somali diaspora in Norway.
Individuals of Pakistani descent, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Oslo.
Includes smaller groups from various European countries, such as Sweden, Denmark, and Germany.
Includes groups from countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Iran.
Includes individuals from various African nations, contributing to the city's diversity.
Includes individuals from different Asian countries, contributing to the cultural fabric of Oslo.
The Soul of Oslo
Discover the essence of Oslo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Oslo, with numerous clubs and a passionate fan base. Both men's and women's teams compete at various levels.
Ice hockey has a strong following in Oslo, with several clubs participating in national leagues. The sport is particularly popular during the winter months.
Skiing, including both alpine and cross-country, is a significant part of Oslo's culture, with easy access to slopes and trails in the surrounding areas.
Handball is widely played in Oslo, with many clubs competing at high levels both domestically and internationally.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Oslo, with several events throughout the year and strong participation in track and field competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oslo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Norwegian cuisine is meat and seafood-focused, Oslo is increasingly catering to vegetarians and vegans. Many restaurants offer creative plant-based dishes, and there are dedicated vegetarian and vegan eateries such as Nordvegan and Loving Hut.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free menus and dishes at various restaurants and cafes across Oslo. It's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions, and many places will accommodate gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oslo with these cultural adventures.
