Things To Do
in Sandvika
Sandvika sits on the eastern shore of the Oslofjord and serves as the administrative and commercial hub of Bærum. The town blends modern retail and dining with easy access to water, forests, and scenic viewpoints. It’s a gateway to urban Oslo and the lush countryside of the surrounding Marka.
Visitors can expect a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with cultural events and outdoor activities year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Norwegian pastries while enjoying the view of the waterfront. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by the Sandvika Church, an iconic landmark, to admire its beautiful structure and serene surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the Sandvika Art Gallery, where you can explore contemporary works from both local and international artists. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes and fresh ingredients. Spend some time shopping at the local boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade for a relaxing evening walk, taking in the stunning views of the Oslo Fjord. For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at a nearby restaurant known for its innovative Norwegian cuisine. Conclude your day with a visit to a cozy bar or café, enjoying a nightcap while mingling with locals.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for an adventure in the nearby Bærumsmarka forest. Once you’re ready, lace up your hiking boots and head out to explore the stunning trails that weave through lush greenery and tranquil lakes. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Norway’s natural landscape.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch by one of the picturesque lakes, where you can relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. Continue your exploration by following a different trail, perhaps leading you to hidden waterfalls or scenic viewpoints. Don’t forget to capture the breathtaking views with your camera as you wander.
Return to Sandvika in the evening and unwind with a leisurely dinner at a local eatery that focuses on farm-to-table dining. Share stories of your day’s adventures with fellow travelers or friendly locals while enjoying fresh, seasonal dishes. As the night falls, take a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the tranquility of the evening atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Café coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🥖Groceries for a week (basic items) | $40-60 |
| 🍷Mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Oslo and nature
- Efficient public transport and walkability in the town center
- High safety and clean environment
- Excellent quality of life and family-friendly amenities
- Can be pricey for dining and activities
- Limited nightlife compared to central Oslo
- "Hei" - Hi
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kan jeg få regningen?" - Can I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Sandvika
Visit one of these nice places.
Harbour views, modern architecture, and boats provide dynamic lighting for daytime and sunset photography.
A short hike yields sweeping panorama of Sandvika, the fjord, and surrounding hills; ideal for wide-angle shots.
Seasonal beach and rocky shorelines offer sunset silhouettes and water reflections.
Industrial-chic architecture with green surroundings provides textured backdrops for photography.
Food in Sandvika
Sandvika Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cured salmon served with dill sauce, often on rye bread or baguette; a staple in Norwegian seaside dining.
Must-Try!
Fermented trout typically enjoyed with flatbread, onions, and sour cream—seasonal and regional in Norway.
Creamy fish soup featuring local catches, vegetables, and herbs; a comforting fjord-side choice.
Norwegian meatballs served with potatoes and lingonberry sauce, a common family-style option.
Brown cheese often enjoyed sliced on bread or waffles for a distinctly Norwegian snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls near the waterfront offering fresh fish, local produce, and Nordic snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; employ polite greetings and maintain personal space in conversations.
Practice Leave No Trace principles; keep noise to a minimum in natural areas; dispose of waste properly.
Safety
Tipping in Sandvika
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not mandatory in Norway; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (e.g., Vipps) are common; cash use is diminishing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days return; rain showers are common. Great for forest trails and early blossoms in parks.
Long days and warm temperatures; perfect for waterfront activities, outdoor dining, and photography at golden hour.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; shorter days, more frequent showers, ideal for color-rich forest scenes.
Cold and often snowy; shorter daylight hours but tranquil fjord landscapes and winter sports opportunities.
Sandvika at Night
Hiking in Sandvika
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with loop routes and scenic lakes just outside Sandvika.
Elevated viewpoints and forested slopes offering panoramic fjord views.
Airports
How to reach Sandvika by plane.
Main international gateway for the Oslo region, about 40-60 minutes by train from Sandvika.
Secondary airport serving low-cost carriers, further from Sandvika than OSL.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong emphasis on safety, good schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities in Bærum.
Proximity to Oslo attracts commuters seeking a balance of city access and suburb living.
A mix of local residents and international residents attracted by the region’s universities and job opportunities.
Quiet neighborhoods and waterfront access make it appealing for retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport with local clubs and community fields available near Sandvika.
Winter staple with nearby groomed trails in Marka and foothills.
Active water sports on the Oslofjord from the Sandvika harbor.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sandvika.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for Nordic veggie dishes, salads, and seasonal vegetables. When ordering seafood-rich menus, request meat-free options or plant-based sides.