24. Oktober 2023
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Iceland, with its surreal landscapes and unique culture, is a dream destination for every traveler. It is way more than mood, rain and waterfalls. If
Discovering the Best of Oslo: A City Trip Guide
Welcome to Oslo, the vibrant capital of Norway. Nestled between the fjords and surrounded by forests, Oslo offers a unique blend of modernity and nature. With its picturesque streets, trendy cafés, and stunning architecture, Oslo is the perfect destination for a city trip. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the 9 most famous sights in Oslo, provide tips on how to get there, how to get around, and give you an idea of the general price level. So let’s get started!
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1. How to get to Oslo
Getting to Oslo is easy, as the city is well connected to the rest of the world. Oslo Airport Gardermoen is the main international airport in Norway and serves as a hub for several airlines. From the airport, you can take the Airport Express Train, also known as Flytoget, which will take you to the city center in just 19 minutes, every 10 minutes. It will cost you 240 NOK (around 20€). Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a bus, which will take you to the city center in about 40 minutes.
2. How to get around
Oslo has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and subways. The easiest way to get around is by using the Ruter app, which allows you to buy tickets, plan your trip, and track your bus or train in real time. You can also rent a bike from several locations around the city, or take a scenic walk through the various parks and green spaces that Oslo has to offer. We walked around the city center for a whole day and enjoyed every minute. It was easy to explore it on our own and we always walked along the waterside.
We parked our van outside the city center and rented an e-scooter at Tier. You can also use other well-known providers. We love to drive around a bit and as our parking lot was at a hill, it was the best decision to rent a scooter for the way back. Check the next paragraph for the best camping tip!
3. Price Level in General
Oslo is known for being an expensive city, but there are still ways to enjoy it without breaking the bank. Eating out can be pricey, but you can save money by going to local food markets or buying food from supermarkets. Museums and art galleries often have free admission on certain days, so make sure to check their websites before you go. Public transportation can also be expensive, but you can save money by buying a 24-hour or 7-day pass instead of single tickets.
When you go to Oslo by camper van or car, we have the best tip for you. You can stay on the top of a hill for free with a stunning view over the city. It’s called Ekebergskrenten. You have to walk 20 minutes to the city center, what is not to far on a sunny day. We also stayed overnight and didn’t have any problems except some louder teenagers, because it was on the weekend.
As said, we traveled to Oslo with our camper van on our 3-weeks-trip through Norway. But if we had to choose for a weekend city trip, we would pick the following hotels: Smarthotel Oslo or the Citybox Oslo (both have a central location, affordable prices and nice design), or Anker Hotel (nice bright rooms and also pretty central including breakfast).
4. Our Favorite Sights in Oslo
Oslo is home to several famous sights and a lot of museums that are definitely worth a visit. But as in Stockholm, we had the best weather and didn’t want to stay inside, so we skipped the latter. Here are our favorites, which are all free and we did them all in one day. Of course if you have more time, you can explore even more!
4.1 The Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House is a striking architectural marvel located on the waterfront and one of the most iconic buildings in Oslo. Designed by the renowned firm Snøhetta, the opera house’s modern and innovative design resembles a glacier rising from the fjord. It also has a sloping marble roof inviting visitors to ascend and enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape and the Oslo Fjord. Opened in 2008, the opera house serves as the home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, hosting a diverse range of performances, including opera, ballet, concerts, and theatrical productions.
Beyond its role as a cultural hub, the Oslo Opera House has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering opportunities for leisurely walks, picnics, and stunning photo opportunities along its expansive roofscape and waterfront promenade. When we visited in Summer it was the place to be to enjoy the sun and have a dip in the fjord.
4.2 Salt Art&Music and Vippa Oslo
Those to spots we found by accident and think it’s worth you have a look as well: SALT is a cultural arena located next to the fjord in the heart of Oslo, overlooking the Oslo Opera House and the Munch Museum. There are six saunas, various food stalls, several bars both inside and outside, several stages and more. We liked walking around the area and think it’s an awesome place for the citizens of Oslo.
We also visited Vippa Oslo, where we had lunch that day. It’s a center for food, culture and art at the end of Vippetangen, directly at the Oslo Fjord. You can choose between all different types of cuisines in the food court, but don’t forget that you are in one of the most expensive countries in Europe: Kathis falafel wrap cost 17.90€, but it fueled her up for the whole day.
We also visited Vippa Oslo, where we had lunch that day. It’s a center for food, culture and art at the end of Vippetangen, directly at the Oslo Fjord. You can choose between all different types of cuisines in the food court, but don’t forget that you are in one of the most expensive countries in Europe: Kathis falafel wrap cost 17.90€, but it fueled her up for the whole day.
4.3 The Akershus Fortress
The Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle steeped in history and surrounded by stunning views of the Oslo Fjord. Originally built in the late 13th century to protect the city from intruders, the fortress has served various roles throughout its existence, including as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison during World War II. Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction and cultural landmark, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its well-preserved architecture, expansive grounds, and informative exhibitions. Visiting the fortress is free and you will get great views over the harbour.
4.4 The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is an iconic symbol of the country’s monarchy and architectural heritage. Located at the top of Karl Johans gate, the palace serves as the official residence of the Norwegian monarch. Its neoclassical design, featuring stately columns and elegant facades, reflects the grandeur and dignity befitting a royal residence.
While the palace is primarily the monarch’s residence, it also serves as a venue for official ceremonies, receptions, and events. Visitors can admire its exterior, stroll through the palace gardens, and even join guided tours to explore its magnificent interior, including the opulent state rooms adorned with artworks and historical artifacts. You can even visit the Queens Park for free.
5. What we missed but you shouldn't
The Vigeland Park is the world’s largest sculpture park made by a single artist – Gustav Vigeland. The park features over 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures, including the iconic Monolith, a 14-meter-high column of intertwined human bodies. The park is a must-visit for art lovers and offers a stunning outdoor experience with its gardens and fountains. It is always open and free. On the other hand, the museum will cost you 100 NOK (9$/8€).
If you’re interested in history, the Viking Ship Museum (Vikingskipshuset) is a must-see attraction. Here, you’ll find three Viking ships that were used for burial rituals over 1,000 years ago. The museum offers an immersive experience, taking you back in time to the days of the Vikings and their seafaring adventures. Unfortunately, the Viking Ship Museum is closed for rebuilding currently. It will reopen as the Museum of the Viking Age in 2026/2027. In the meantime, you can visit Viking exhibitions at the Historical Museum in the middle of Oslo city centre.
If you’re interested in art, the Munch Museum is dedicated to the works of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, famous for his iconic painting „The Scream“. The museum houses over 28,000 of Munch’s works, including paintings, prints, and sculptures. Admission is 180 NOK (17$/15€).
The Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower are dedicated to the history of skiing in Norway, with exhibits showcasing everything from traditional wooden skis to modern racing equipment. Visitors can also climb the tower for stunning views of the surrounding hills and fjords. Admission is 190 NOK (18$/16€)
6. Conclusion
Oslo is a city that is full of surprises and adventure. With its rich history and stunning natural landscapes, you’re sure to have a memorable city trip in Oslo. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking to indulge in luxury, Oslo has something for everyone. From the vibrant street art scene to the delicious local cuisine, you’ll fall in love with everything this city has to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Oslo today and experience the magic of this Nordic gem. Oslo was the first stop on our 3-week itinerary of Norway, so you definitely have to check this out! Don’t forget to share your own travel tips and experiences with us in the comments below. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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