Oslo - Discovering Norway

Travelling to Oslo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Oslo, a pretty good destination in Norway (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Oslo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Oslo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Norway, here's everything to know about Oslo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Oslo

Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway. It is situated on a fjord, surrounded by hills and forests, and is known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural beauty. Some popular attractions in Oslo include the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum, and the Oslo Opera House. It is also a great city for outdoor activities, with plenty of parks, lakes, and hiking trails nearby. The climate in Oslo is mild in the summer and chilly in the winter, with occasional snowfall. The official language in Oslo is Norwegian, but most people also speak English. The currency used is the Norwegian krone (NOK).

What to visit in Oslo

Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Oslo, Norway: 1. Viking Ship Museum - This museum is dedicated to showcasing the Viking Age ships, which were discovered in the 19th century. The museum has three ships, including the legendary Oseberg ship, which was built in the 9th century and was used as a burial ground. 2. Akershus Fortress - This medieval fortress is a popular tourist destination that offers gorgeous views of the city and the Oslo Fjord. The fortress was built in the 13th century and was used as a residence for the kings of Norway. 3. Vigeland Sculpture Park - This is one of Norway's most visited tourist attractions, featuring over 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures created by the Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland. The park is located in the Frogner neighborhood of Oslo and is a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and appreciate art. 4. Munch Museum - Dedicated to the famous Norwegian painter Edvard Munch, this museum showcases his iconic works like The Scream and Madonna. 5. Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower - This is a world-famous ski jump that offers beautiful views of the city. The tower also has a ski museum that showcases the history of skiing in Norway. 6. Oslo Opera House - This stunning, modern building is the home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. The building is designed to resemble a glacier and is located on the waterfront, making it a great place to catch a performance or just stroll around. 7. National Gallery - The National Gallery is located in the city center and has a large collection of Norwegian, Nordic, and international art. The museum's most famous painting is "The Scream" by Edvard Munch. 8. Oslo Cathedral - This stunning cathedral is located in the heart of Oslo and is a must-visit spot for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The cathedral was built in the 17th century and has survived many fires over the years.
9. Oslofjord - This is a beautiful fjord that runs through the city and offers a variety of activities like kayaking, boating, and sightseeing. There are also several islands and beaches to explore in the fjord. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Oslo that you can visit and enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Norway, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Oslo.

When to go on holiday to Oslo

The best time to visit Oslo, Norway really depends on your preferences. If you're interested in winter sports, then December through April is the best time to visit as there are plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains.
If you prefer milder weather and want to take advantage of the long days, then mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit Oslo. During this time, the city experiences a warm and pleasant climate, with temperatures that range from around 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). The days are also longer during this time, with up to 18 hours of daylight in midsummer.
Keep in mind that July and August are the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds and save money, consider visiting Oslo during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October).

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Oslo

There are several ways to get to Oslo, Norway. Here are a few options: 1. By air: Oslo Gardermoen Airport is the main airport in Norway, and there are numerous airlines that fly there from all over the world.
2. By train: If you're already in Europe, you can take a train to Oslo. There are several trains available from different locations including Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Copenhagen.
3. By car: If you're driving, you can take the E6 highway which runs through the southern part of Norway and passes through Oslo.
4. By bus: Buses are also a popular option with several companies operating services to Oslo from various destinations.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, make sure to check schedules, travel time, and costs to help plan your trip efficiently.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Oslo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Oslo

Here are some typical foods of Oslo, Norway: 1. Gravlax: It is a traditional dry-cured salmon dish, served with a mustard and dill sauce. 2. Lefse: It is a type of soft Norwegian bread made from potatoes and flour. 3. Fårikål: It is a traditional lamb and cabbage stew, seasoned with black pepper, salt, and sometimes, juniper berries. 4. Rømmegrøt: It is a warm, creamy porridge made with sour cream and flour, served with butter and sugar. 5. Krumkake: It is a thin, crispy Norwegian wafer cookie usually filled with whipped cream. 6. Fiskeboller: It is a fish meatball made from ground white fish, flour, and milk, sometimes served in a white sauce. 7. Kjøttboller: It is a meatball dish commonly served with gravy, boiled potatoes and lingonberry sauce. 8. Brunost: It is a brown, caramel-like cheese made from whey, milk, and cream, with a unique, sweet and nutty flavor. 9. Rakfisk: It is a fermented fish dish, typically made with trout and served with rye bread, potatoes, sour cream, and onion. 10. Lutefisk: It is a traditional Norwegian dish of dried fish that has been soaked in lye, then rehydrated and boiled, served with boiled potatoes, bacon, and green peas.
You can find general info about typical foods in Norway here.

Is Oslo an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Oslo is known to be an expensive destination for tourists. Accommodation, food, and drinks can be quite expensive in comparison to other European cities. However, there are still ways to save money such as using public transportation or visiting free museums and attractions. It's always a good idea to plan ahead and budget accordingly when visiting Oslo.

Where to find accomodation in Oslo

The best areas to find accommodation in Oslo are: 1. Oslo City Centre: This is the heart of the city and the best place for first-time visitors. It has a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and everything in between.
2. Grünerløkka: This neighborhood is known for its trendy cafes, bars, and independent shops. It's a great place to stay if you're looking for a more artsy and hip vibe.
3. Frogner: This is a residential district with beautiful parks and museums. It's a peaceful area to stay if you're looking for a relaxing vacation away from the bustling city center.
4. Majorstuen: This area is located just outside the city center and is known for its shopping streets, restaurants, and coffee shops. It's a good option for those who want to be close to the action but prefer a quieter neighborhood.
5. Aker Brygge: This is a waterfront area with a range of restaurants and shops. It's a good option for those who want to be close to the water and enjoy scenic views.
You can check hotel prices at Oslo here:
Booking.com

Is Oslo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Oslo, Norway is generally a very safe place for tourists. The crime rate is generally low, and tourists can feel safe walking around the city. As with any large city, travelers should still take of their personal belongings and be aware of their surroundings. However, overall, Oslo is a very welcoming and safe city for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Norway here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Oslo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Oslo the most?

Oslo, Norway is a great destination for a variety of travelers. It offers something for everyone, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families looking for outdoor activities and young people seeking fun and adventure. For couples, Oslo offers scenic views from the harbor and beautiful parks to stroll through. You can enjoy a lovely dinner at the rooftop of the Opera House, or take a romantic stroll down the famous Karl Johans Gate.
Families can enjoy the numerous museums, amusement parks, and outdoor activities that Oslo has to offer. The Vigeland Sculpture Park is a great place for kids to play and explore, and the Oslo Opera House is a fun place to take the kids for a tour.
Young people will enjoy exploring the city's nightlife, which is well-known for its exciting bars, clubs, and music venues. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
Overall, Oslo is a great destination for just about anyone looking to explore a beautiful city with plenty of activities for all ages.

How to get around Oslo

Oslo has a great public transportation system that consists of buses, trams, and metro lines. The easiest way to move around the city is by using a combination of these modes of transportation. Another popular option is cycling, as the city has numerous bike paths and rental stations. Taxis are also available, but they may be expensive compared to public transportation.

What to see around Oslo

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Oslo: 1. The fjord village of Drøbak 2. The historic city of Fredrikstad 3. Hadeland Glassverk, a glassworks museum and exhibition 4. The charming town of Tønsberg 5. The beautiful village of Son 6. The picturesque town of Lillehammer 7. The scenic town of Rjukan, known for its industrial heritage 8. The stunning mountains and valleys of Jotunheimen National Park 9. The idyllic town of Kragerø, situated on a beautiful archipelago 10. The famous sculpture park of Gustav Vigeland in Frogner Park, Oslo.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Norway you can click here.

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