Discover Oslo: Norway’s Dynamic Capital Where Nature Meets Innovation

Oslo stands as a pioneering example of urban sustainability, where modern architecture harmoniously blends with natural landscapes. As Europe’s fastest-growing capital, it uniquely combines cultural heritage with cutting-edge design, earning its title as the 2019 European Green Capital. The city offers an extraordinary mix of fjord adventures, world-class museums, and vibrant food scenes, all while maintaining its commitment to environmental consciousness and quality of life.

Quick Essential Information

Language

Norwegian (English widely spoken)

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Visa

Schengen visa for non-EU citizens

Power Plugs

Type C and F, 230V, 50Hz

Emergency Contacts

Medical Emergency: 113
Police: 112
Tourist Police: +47 22 66 90 50

Religion

Lutheran Christianity

Airport

Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL)

Climate

Temperate maritime

Useful Apps

Ruter (public transport)
Oslo Pass
YR (weather)
Google Maps

Geographic Location

Oslo is situated at the northernmost end of the Oslo Fjord, surrounded by forests and mountains. Located at coordinates 59°55′N 10°45′E in southern Norway.

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (June-August): Long daylight hours, festivals
  • Spring/Fall (May, September): Mild weather, fewer tourists
  • Winter (December-February): Christmas markets, winter sports

Transport

Airport Access: Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL) – 47km northeast of city center

Airport to City Transportation:

  1. Flytoget Express Train
    • Cost: 210 NOK ($20)
    • Duration: 19 minutes
    • Purchase: Station or flytoget.no
  2. NSB Train
    • Cost: 114 NOK ($11)
    • Duration: 23 minutes
    • Purchase: Station or vy.no
  3. Flybussen Bus
    • Cost: 199 NOK ($19)
    • Duration: 45 minutes
    • Purchase: Online or from driver

Accommodations

Booking platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com

Luxury Range

  • The Thief
    • Price: 3,500-5,000 NOK ($335-480)
    • Location: Tjuvholmen
  • Hotel Continental
    • Price: 3,000-4,500 NOK ($290-435)
    • Location: City Center
  • Grand Hotel Oslo
    • Price: 2,800-4,000 NOK ($270-385)
    • Location: Karl Johans Gate

Mid-Range

  • Scandic Oslo City
    • Price: 1,500-2,500 NOK ($145-240)
    • Location: Central Station
  • Thon Hotel Opera
    • Price: 1,400-2,200 NOK ($135-212)
    • Location: Opera Quarter
  • Comfort Hotel Grand Central
    • Price: 1,300-2,000 NOK ($125-192)
    • Location: Central Station

Budget Range

  • Anker Hostel
    • Price: 300-600 NOK ($29-58)
    • Location: Grünerløkka
  • Saga Poshtel Oslo Central
    • Price: 400-800 NOK ($38-77)
    • Location: City Center
  • Oslo Vandrerhjem Haraldsheim
    • Price: 350-700 NOK ($34-67)
    • Location: Grefsen

Foods

Oslo’s culinary scene blends traditional Norwegian cuisine with modern Nordic gastronomy:

Traditional Delicacies:

  • Lutefisk: Traditional dried cod
  • Kjøttkaker: Norwegian meatballs
  • Brunost: Sweet brown cheese
  • Krumkaker: Waffle cookies
  • Rakfisk: Fermented trout
  • Pinnekjøtt: Salted lamb ribs

Must-Try Experiences:

  • Food halls at Mathallen Oslo
  • Nordic cuisine at Maaemo (3 Michelin stars)
  • Street food at Vippa
  • Fresh seafood at Tjuvholmen

Tourist Attractions

Oslo Opera House The iconic marble and glass structure appears to rise from the fjord, with a sloped roof you can walk on. Home to the Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, offering guided tours and world-class performances.

Vigeland Sculpture Park World’s largest sculpture park by a single artist, featuring over 200 bronze and granite works by Gustav Vigeland. Located within Frogner Park, it’s open 24/7 with free admission.

Viking Ship Museum Houses three original Viking ships and artifacts from Viking burial mounds. Exhibits include the complete Oseberg ship and treasures found within.

The National Gallery Home to Norway’s largest collection of art, including Edvard Munch’s “The Scream” and works by Norwegian and international artists.

Akershus Fortress Medieval castle and fortress overlooking the Oslo Fjord, featuring museums, government offices, and beautiful grounds.

Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Jump Tower World’s oldest ski museum with panoramic city views from the jump tower. Experience ski jumping through simulators.

Munch Museum New waterfront museum dedicated to Edvard Munch’s art, featuring rotating exhibitions and permanent collections.

Things to Do

Cultural Experiences:

  • Opera performance at Oslo Opera House
  • Viking Ship Museum tour
  • National Gallery visit
  • Munch Museum exploration
  • Historical walking tours

Outdoor Activities:

    • Fjord cruises
    • Island hopping to Bygdøy
    • Hiking in Nordmarka Forest
    • Winter sports at Oslo Winter Park
    • Swimming at Tjuvholmen

Modern Oslo:

  • Architectural walks in Bjørvika
  • Contemporary art at Astrup Fearnley
  • Design shopping in Grünerløkka
  • Food halls exploration
  • Harbor promenade walk

Day Trips:

    • TusenFryd Amusement Park
    • Drøbak Christmas Village
    • Hovedøya Island
    • Fredrikstad Old Town
    • Oslo Fjord islands

Getting Around

Public Transportation:

  • Single ticket: 39 NOK ($3.75)
  • 24-hour pass: 117 NOK ($11.25)
  • 7-day pass: 323 NOK ($31)
  • Airport express: 210 NOK ($20)

Budget (Daily Expenses in NOK)

CategoryBackpackerMid-RangeLuxury
Accommodation300-6001400-25003500+
Food250-400600-10001500+
Transportation100-150200-300500+
Attractions150-250400-6001000+
Total/Day800-14002600-44006500+

Travel Insurance

We recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and theft.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Purchase Oslo Pass for free transport and attractions
  • Take advantage of free museum days
  • Use public transportation
  • Eat at food halls and markets
  • Visit free attractions and parks
  • Stay in hostels or budget hotels
  • Book accommodations in advance

Seasonal Recommendations

  • Summer: Festivals, outdoor concerts
  • Spring: Cherry blossoms, cultural events
  • Fall: Northern Lights possibility
  • Winter: Christmas markets, skiing
  • May: Constitution Day celebrations
  • August: Øya Music Festival

Safety Precautions

  • Use caution on slippery surfaces in winter
  • Keep valuables secure in tourist areas
  • Follow marked trails when hiking
  • Use official taxi services
  • Be prepared for weather changes
  • Carry ID and important documents

Oslo offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern innovation. Whether you’re exploring Viking history, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing cutting-edge design, Norway’s capital provides diverse experiences for every traveler. With proper planning and this guide, you’re ready to discover one of Scandinavia’s most dynamic cities.

Note: The travel package prices provided are estimates based on current market rates. Actual costs may fluctuate due to factors such as peak tourist seasons and other circumstances beyond our control.