Oslo Travel Guide
Veiled in eclectic architecture and sharp Scandinavian design, Oslo is a cultural Shangri-La that blends a buzzing party scene with a wealth of top-class museums and galleries.
But don’t be fooled by the cosmopolitan atmosphere, the city’s suburbs are forested, semi-rural gems where hiking, swimming and even skiing are on offer.
One of the best ways to approach Oslo is by sea, with the journey taking you along scenic fjords where fishing boats jostle with cruise liners and luxury yachts.
Located at the end of the 110km-long (70 miles) Oslofjord, Norway’s municipal hub is one of the few cities where you can sail, ski and skate to your heart’s content just a short distance from the city centre.
For those who would rather just walk, there’s Oslo’s fascinating central district with its jumble of modern and ancient buildings. There are plenty of key stops too, including the steel-and-glass Munch Museum, the old-fashioned charm of the City Museum and the craggy medieval walls of the Akershus Fortress.
To the north, the heavily wooded Nordmarka district has myriad fishing, blueberry-picking and walking opportunities, while the southern borough of Frogner boasts The Vigeland Park – an unmissable blend of wide open space and the surreal creations of sculptor Gustav Vigeland.
Equally wonderful is the National Museum, which is home to Norway’s most famous painting, The Scream by Edvard Munch, and the futuristic Opera House in Bjørvika.
Evenings in Oslo are characterised by bustling crowds as the locals apply as much dedication to enjoyment as they do to business. The capital’s thriving restaurant scene has seen it rewarded with four Michelin stars, although you don’t have to spend a fortune to eat well.
The Grünerløkka district teems with bustling little pavement cafés where visitors can get a slap-up supper for a reasonable price.
A thriving, truly vibrant city, the cosmopolitan heart of Norway really does have something for everyone.
Whether as Oslo, Christiana or Kristiania, the regularly renamed Norwegian capital has had a compelling past. The oldest of the Scandinavian capitals, it was founded in 1050 by King Harald Hardråda (Hard Ruler), who was killed in 1066 at the Battle of Stamford Bridge near York.
In the years following Harald’s demise, Christian kings such as Olav Kyrre turned Oslo into Norway’s spiritual centre as well as its military one and sparked a boom in church building. But Oslo’s success waned by the 13th century as Norway was reduced to a province of Denmark, ruled from Copenhagen.
Worse was to come as numerous fires gutted the wooden buildings of the city centre. It wasn’t until 1624 that a stone rebuild was ordered by King Christian IV of Denmark and Norway. But there was a price to pay – they had to rename the city Christiana in honour of the Danish king.
Oslo would remain Christiana for the next 300 years. It wasn’t until 1925 (20 years after Norway finally became independent) that the city’s Norwegian moniker was finally restored.
Despite political trials, the growing city became a major financial, military and administrative centre, with the Hanseatic League setting up shop in the city in the 15th century. The subsequent development of shipping, industry and forestry helped to cement the dominant role that Oslo still enjoys in the nation’s economy today.
In more recent years, Oslo has undergone further expansion due to a boost in the city’s financial standing from the wealth created by the discovery of vast oil reserves in the North Sea during the 1960s.
This has prompted a modern architectural face-lift, which is reflected in the development of the bustling docks and the lively retail and leisure sector around Aker Brygge – a transformed former warehouse area along the quay.
Oslo has sent a huge Christmas tree to Britain each year since 1947 as a thank you for its support during WWII.
Oslo is home to the Nobel Peace Prize which is presented every December at Oslo City Hall.
Two of Edvard Munch’s paintings, The Scream and Madonna, were stolen from the Munch Museum in Oslo on 22 August 2004. The thieves left a note that read: “thanks for the poor security.”
Oslo has a humid continental climate with sufficient precipitation to keep its surrounding hills green and lush. Its coastal position also helps to moderate its climate, especially given its northerly latitude.
Spring (March to May) sees the mercury climb rapidly. With temperatures averaging 2°C (35°F) in March and the days getting sunnier, March is often a good time to ski and the country plays host to the Norwegian Alpine Championship. By May, the averaging temperatures get to 12°C (57°F).
Summer (June to August) is lovely in Oslo. July is the warmest month with plenty of sunshine and temperatures range from 13°C (55°F) to 22°C (72°F). During the long summer days, when the sun drops only briefly below the horizon and it never gets truly dark, people in Oslo spend much of their time outdoors. This is the best season to join the locals exploring the parks and hiking paths, or simply relaxing on the beaches of the fjord.
Autumn (September to November) sees the temperatures drop quickly and the days shorten. By November, the average low is -1°C (30°F) while the average high is 4°C (39°F). Snow starts to fall to the delight of snow sports enthusiasts.
Winter (December to February) is dark with very few hours of daylight, and temperatures often fall well below freezing point. But the cold season does have its compensations, including plentiful opportunities to enjoy cross-country and downhill skiing. January is the coldest month, -7°C (19°F) is the average low while 1°C (34°F) the average high.
Getting around Oslo
Oslo has a comprehensive and efficient public transport network of trains, buses, trams, ferries and underground (T-Bane), mostly operated by Oslo Sporveier.
You can buy single-trip tickets, day passes and weekly passes from ticket offices across the city, as well as the Oslo Pass, which includes access to all public transport, apart from late-night buses and trams. The Oslo Pass also allows you free access to more than 30 attractions, free guided walking tours and generous discounts elsewhere.
In general, tickets aren’t especially cheap, but fines for travelling without a ticket are even steeper, so don’t be tempted to go without. You can board buses and trams opposite Oslo S station on Jerbanetorget, with tickets available from the driver.
The Oslo T-Bane consists of five metro lines, parts of which are underground.
Båtservice Sightseeing A/S
Telephone: +47 23 35 6890
Website: www.nyc.no operates seasonal ferries (April to October) from City Hall to Bygdøy Island, where many museums are situated.
Other small ferries operate from Vippetangen, just behind Akershus Slott, to all the harbour basin islands. For more information on all public transport in and around Oslo visit
Ruter
Address: Jernbanetorget 1, 0154 Oslo.
Telephone: 177 in Norway only or +47 22 05 7070
Website: www.ruter.no located in front of the Central station.
You can find taxi ranks throughout the city, mainly near the shopping centre, city squares and outside Oslo S station. Taxi companies include:
Norgestaxi AS
Telephone: +47 08000
Website: www.norgestaxi.no
Oslo Taxi
Telephone: +47 22 38 8600
Website: www.oslotaxi.no
The city also has two helicopter taxi services
Heliwing ( Telephone: +47 9809 5000 )
Nor Aviation ( Telephone: +47 64 95 6495 ) one seaplane taxi
Fonnafly ( Telephone: +47 67 10 5050 ) and one boat
Fjord taxi Telephone: +47 90 04 0999 ) which you can also charter for private trips on the fjord.
Driving in Oslo is fairly straightforward. However, the city is relatively small and has an excellent public transport system, so a car is unnecessary unless you’re planning longer trips. Rush hour (0700 to 0900 and 1500 to 1800) is best avoided, and navigating your way round can be difficult, as there is a complicated one-way system.
Another plus point for public transport is that parking is a nightmare in Oslo, and prices can be steep. Payment is usually required Monday to Saturday 0900-2000. Municipal parking spots are free to Oslo Pass holders. There are daytime car parks at C J Hambros Plass, Prinsens gate, Christian Krohgsgate, Oslo Plaza, Asker Stasjon and Skøyen Stasjon.
Bikeshop
Address: Karenslyst Allé 36, 0278 Oslo.
Website: www.bikeshop.no
Oslo Bike Rental
Address: Sentralstasjon Jernbanetorget 1, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 24 20 0004
Website: www.oslobikerental.no from over 100 locations in and around the city centre and these are available from 06:00 to 24;00 every day from April to December.
Oslo Bysykkel works on a subscription basis. A day pass gives you unlimited trips of up to 45 minutes within a 24 hour period. A season ticket is also available. Bikes can be unlocked using the Bysykkel app or display screens at the docking stations.
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Things to see in Oslo
Attractions
- Munch Museet (Munch Museum)
This museum dedicated to Norway’s most famous painter, Edvard Munch, still has some real gems. Highlights include two versions of The Scream, Summer Night/The Voice and his 1902 Madonna. The museum also hosts an ever-changing roster of exhibitions giving an insight into different aspects of Munch’s oeuvre.
Address: Edvard Munchs Plass 1, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 49 3500
Opening times: Daily 10:00-18:00.
Website: www.munchmuseet.no
Admission Fees: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
Unusual, unique and occasionally spooky, the Vigeland Sculpture Park is home to over 200 bronze, granite and cast iron creations by the 20th-century artist Gustav Vigeland. The sculptor was also responsible for the design of the park itself, and thanks to its large acreage, it never feels crowded here.
Address: Frogner, Nobels gate 32, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 49 3700
Opening times: Daily 24 hours.
Website: www.vigeland.museum.no
Admission Fees: No
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
- Akershus Slott (Akershus Castle)
Built in 1299 by King Haakon V Magnusson, the ancient walls and medieval tower of this imposing fortress still dominate the seafront. Renovated in the 17th century, it has magnificent banqueting halls and reception rooms alongside dank medieval dungeons. The Norges Hjemmefrontmuseum (Resistance Museum) is also held here, retelling the story of Norwegian resistance under Nazi occupation.
Address: Sentrum, Akershus festning, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 09 3917
Opening times: Daily 06:00-21:00.
Website: www.kultur.forsvaret.no
Admission Fees: No
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
- Vikingskipshuset (Viking Ship Museum)
A short ferry trip from central Oslo, the peninsula of Bygdøy is home to some of the city’s best museums, including the wonderful Viking Ship Museum. Containing two of the world’s best-preserved Viking ships, as well as scores of artefacts such as tools and sledges, it offers the perfect introduction to Norway’s Dark Ages past.
Address: Bygdøy, Huk Aveny 35, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 2 285 1900
Opening times: Daily 09:00-18:00.
Website: www.vikingtidsmuseet.no
Admission Fees: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
Located on the peninsula of Bygdøy, Fram Museum tells the story of Norwegian polar exploration with a focus on three Norwegian explorers—Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup and Roald Amundsen. Inside the museum visitors have the chance to view the exploration vessel Fram, still intact. This is the first ship that was built in Norway for polar research.
Address: Bygdøynesveien 39, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 28 2950
Opening times: Daily 10:00-17:00.
Website: www.frammuseum.no
Admission Fees: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
- Oslo Domkirke (Cathedral)
Consecrated in 1697, and restored in 1950, this magnificent cathedral is Norway’s answer to Westminster Abbey. Hugo Lous Mohr created its ceiling art between 1936 and 1950, while the stained glass windows are by sculptor Emanuel Vigeland. A number of original features remain, including the altar screen, pulpit and font.
Address: Sentrum, Karl Johans gate 11, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 62 9010
Opening times: Sat-Thu 10:00-16:00, Fri 16:00-23:30.
Website: www.kirken.no
Admission Fees: No
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
TusenFryd is Norway’s biggest theme park and is home to 30 rides, among them SuperSplash, one of the steepest water rides in Europe, and SpeedMonster, which propels riders from 0 to 90 kmph (56 mph) in less than two seconds. The Barana Fryd area keeps children occupied, while the water park comes into its own in summer.
Address: Vinterbro, Høyungsletta 19, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 64 97 6497
Opening times: Tue-Sun 11:00-17:00.
Website: www.tusenfryd.no
Admission Fees: Yes
Disabled Access: No
UNESCO: No
Oslo Opera House is one of Norway’s biggest cultural institutions. With a spectacular fjord-side setting, the futuristic ice-white building plays host to an ever-changing programme of shows, including opera and ballet plus plays and modern music concerts. Pre-booked guided tours are available all year round.
Address: Sentrum, Kirsten Flagstads plass 1, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 21 42 2121
Opening times: Mon-Fri, Sun 1300, Sat 1200 (guided tours).
Website: www.operaen.no
Admission Fees: No (charge for performances and tours).
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
- Nasjonalgalleriet (National Gallery)
Norway’s National Gallery houses a respectable pre-1945 international art collection, with works by Gauguin, Picasso, Cezanne and El Greco. But it is the Norwegian collection that is the main draw here, thanks largely to the huge collection of work by local artist Edvard Munch, including a version of Skrik (The Scream).
Address: Sentrum, Universitetsgata 13, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 21 98 2000
Opening times: Tue, Wed 10:00-20:00, Thu-Sun 10:00-17:00.
Website: www.nasjonalmuseet.no
Admission Fees: Yes
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
- Oslo Radhus (Oslo City Hall)
Opened in 1950 as part of the city’s 900th anniversary, Oslo City Hall is a dominant, although not especially pretty, part of the capital’s skyline. Perched on the waterfront overlooking the fjord, the twin-towered building is better inside than out with colourful frescos and murals redeeming the staid exterior. It also hosts the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony.
Address: Sentrum, Fridtjof Nansens Plass, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 46 1200
Opening times: Wed-Mon 09:00-16:00.
Website: www.oslo.kommune.no
Admission Fees: No
Disabled Access: Yes
UNESCO: No
Next to the wonderful Vigeland Sculpture Park, the open-air swimming pool complex of Frognerbadet is one of the most popular summer spots in the city. With three open-air pools, including a diving pool, water slides and separate adult and children sections, the entire city seemingly packs into the complex on sunny weekends.
Address: Frogner, Middelthuns gate 28, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 27 5450
Opening times: Mon-Fri 07:00-19:30, Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00.
Website: www.oslo.kommune.no
Admission Fees: Yes
Disabled Access: No
UNESCO: No
Tourist Offices
Address: Sentrum, Jernbanetorget 1, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 10 6200
Opening times: Mon-Sat 09:00-18:00, Sun 10:00-18:00.
Website: www.visitoslo.com
Located outside Oslo Central Station, this visitor centre has plenty of staff ready to help with queries, offer suggestions and take care of bookings. They can also aid tourists with hotels, transport and tours, and have plenty of free maps and leaflets to dispense.
Tourist passes
The Oslo Pass ( Website: www.visitoslo.com ) is good value for tourists, giving free admission to 30 museums and attractions.
The pass also offers unlimited local travel on all forms of transport (including the ferries plying the waters between the city and the islands of the Oslofjord), free entrance to Tøyenbadet and Frognerbadet swimming pools and free parking in the municipal car parks.
It also gives price reductions on sightseeing trips and numerous other discounts for cinemas, restaurants, car hire and souvenir shops. You can buy cards for one, two or three days (concessions are available) online, at the tourist information office, hotels and Narvesen newsagents.
Things to do in Oslo
- Brave a dip in the Akerselva
Oslo’s central river is sparklingly clean and a popular swimming spot come summer. Be warned, the current can get quite speedy in the centre, so weaker swimmers should stay close to the bank. Either way, expect a bracing dip – the river is fed by snowmelt from the mountains.
- Cruise down the Oslofjord
No visit to Oslo is complete without taking some time out on the fjord.
Båtservice Sightseeing A/S
Telephone: +47 23 35 6890
Website: www.nyc.no offers a two-hour trip that includes a guided tour around Oslo’s outlying islands and residential suburbs, as well as some gorgeous panoramic views of the opera house and Akershus Slott.
- Hike the Nordmarka wilderness area
A 430-sq-km (166-sq-mile) stretch of verdant pine and larch forest dotted with cerulean lakes, Nordmarka has more than 450km (280 miles) of marked winter ski trails and colour-coded hiking and biking trails come summer. Climbers who relish a challenge should tackle Svarttjernshøgda, at 719m (2,358ft) it’s the park’s highest point.
- Make your own Norwegian homeware
Scandinavia is famous for its sense of style – particularly when it comes to chic home goods. If you fancy snapping up something one-of-a-kind, local potter
Glazed Studio
Telephone: +47 22 71 4400
Website:www.glazedstudio.no will show you how to make your own Scandi-style homeware – and can sell you the real deal if your efforts go wrong.
- Try the ski jump at Holmenkollen
You might want to have a few lessons before risking life and limb on
Holmenkollen’s Olympic standard ski jump
Telephone: +47 22 92 3200
Website: www.skiforeningen.no but if your ski skills are up to the job, then it’s well worth a go.
The more risk-averse visitors can visit the adjacent museum, which charts the sport’s surprisingly lengthy 4,000-year history.
Oslo tours and excursions
Oslo tours
Båtservice Sightseeing A/S offers a comprehensive choice of bus and boat tours of Oslo. These range from a 50-minute boat tour on the fjord to a seven-hour ‘Grand Tour’ which combines bus and boat. The company also offers a three-hour evening cruise in July and August. Departures are from Rådhusbrygge 3.
Stromma
Offers a hop on hop off bus tour. There are 18 stops on the tour and you can get tickets valid for either 24 or 48 hours. You can also combine Stromma’s hop on hop off bus and boat tours in one 24-hour ticket.
Telephone: +47 2335 6890 , +47 223 32 000
Website: www.stromma.no
Oslo offers a wealth of walking experiences, whether you’re looking for a quick spin around the city centre or something lengthier. Free Tour Oslo offers daily free and private tours in English and Spanish. There are two free tours in English each day, one which covers the city and the other focuses on Oslo’s East Side.
The daily Spanish tour takes in the city. The meeting point for all tours is The Tiger, Jernbanetorget. Oslowalk offers four different themed walks each day, which include the city centre, riverside and Vigeland Park.
Website: www.citywalks.no
Oslo excursions
A 430-sq-km (166-sq-mile) stretch of verdant pine and larch forest dotted with cerulean lakes, Nordmaka has more than 450km (280 miles) of marked ski trails during winter and a network of colour-coded hiking and biking trails in the summer. Svarttjernshøgda, at 719m (2,358ft), is the park’s highest peak and offers a real challenge for climbers.
Telephone: +47 22 82 2800
Website: www.dnt.no
Telephone: +47 22 92 3200
Website: www.skiforeningen.no
Telephone: 02180 2180 in Norway only or +47 21 80 2180 from abroa
Website: www.friluftsetaten.oslo.kommune.no have a number of basic but comfortable huts available for anyone who fancies an overnight expedition. Nordmaka is 17km (11 miles) north of Oslo.
Website:www.visitoslo.com
One of the most recognisable sports arenas in the world, the Holmenkollen stadium in the hills to the northwest of Oslo is one of Norway’s most popular tourist spots. The stadium plays host to Nordic skiing events every winter; a brand-new ski jump opened in 2010 and featured at the 2011 FIS Nordic World Championships.
The ski jump is also home to the world’s oldest ski museum, which documents the sport’s 4,000-year history. To get there, take the Metro (T-bane) line 1 (Frognerseteren) from central Oslo and get off at Holmenkollen station. From there, the stadium is a 10-minute walk away.
Telephone: +47 22 92 3200
Website: www.skiforeningen.no
Shopping in Oslo
Thanks to the strong Kroner, Norway is not a particularly cheap shopping destination, but you can find some good deals in the less specialised shops. However, shopping in Oslo isn’t really about bargain hunting, but quality design and crafts, which are done wonderfully well in the Norwegian capital. Top of the list though, is the plethora of shops dedicated to fashion, in which area (like the other Scandinavian capitals) Oslo truly excels.
The main shopping districts in Oslo are in Frogner, with its antiques and art galleries, the market stalls of Bogstadveien, and the area around Karl Johans gate where you’ll find the big brands. For local fashion, Grünerløkka with its quirky independent boutiques and second-hand bookshops is your best bet.
Good shops for crafts include Heimen Husfliden (Rosenkrantz’ gt. 8) with its huge assortment of handmade goods, including knitwear, pewter, ceramics and national costume, or Norway Designs (Stortingsgate 28), which has a large selection of work by Norwegian folk artists.
The Oslo Sweater Shop at Tullins gate 5, has one of the best ranges of sweaters in the city, while William Schmidt (Karl Johans gate 41) has been specialising in sweaters and souvenirs since 1853.
Farmers’ markets heaving with fresh produce and handmade crafts are a regular occurrence at Valkyrie plass in Majorstuen or Birkelunden in Grünerløkka, but times and dates can change at short notice, so check
Website: www.bondensmarked.no before you go.
For crafts, jewellery and trinkets that won’t break the bank, try Vestkanttorvet Flea Market on Amaldus Nilsens plass. Open only on Saturdays, the friendly atmosphere and huge variety of colourful stalls make it worth visiting whether or not you’re planning to spend any money.
Aker Brygge, on the wharf next to City Hall, is Oslo’s oldest shopping area, while one of the biggest shopping malls is Storo Storsenter, near Oslo S station. Both stock all the usual international brands along with a sprinkling of independent shops.
Most shops in Oslo are open Monday to Wednesday and Friday 09:00-17:00. Thursday is late opening, until 19:00 or even 21:00, while on Saturday, most close early – generally around 15:00. Shopping centres are open until 2100 on weekdays and 18:00 on Saturday.
Norwegian knitwear is among the best (and most famous) in the world, thanks to its intricate patterns and excellent quality. Traditional styles include selburose, an angular rose-shaped pattern, and quirky Fair Isle.
The Oslo Sweater Shop at Tullinsgate 5 has a huge selection, all made from local wool. Other traditional crafts worth taking a look at are the hand-carved wooden trolls and other toys, which are found on practically every street corner and make wonderful gifts.
The standard VAT rate in Norway is 25%.
Oslo Food And Drink
Food In Oslo
- Freshly cooked prawna from Oslofjord’s fishermen (Tee icing on the cake on a summer’s day)
Oslofjorden’s prawn fishermen have cooking equipment on board their boats, and can therefore serve completely fresh prawns to the eager customers who flock to Rådhusbrygga. Few things say summer in Oslo as much as enjoying delicious, unpretentious seafood on a bench, with the Danish and Nesodd boat tugging past. Prawns – so simple but so delicious.
Pork and dips is just one of the many dishes, consisting of fried side pork and white sauce, with turnip purée and boiled potatoes with parsley sprinkle over.
- Freshly pulled fried mackerel (Catch of the summer in the fjord)
For Oslo residents, little says summer as much as a fried mackerel, filled with fresh green herbs and a lemon boat next to it. Oily fish is also good for the heart, brain and, not least, the tummy.
The big favourites are comfort foods such as prawn sandwiches, meat sandwiches and herring salad. But you can also get internationally inspired and renowned toppings such as chicken confit, pastrami and warm liver paté, all served on freshly baked bread with tasty accompaniments such as pickled gherkins, caper and, of course, the house mayonnaise.
Veal fricassée being one of the many classics. The dish may not be the everyday dish in Norwegian homes that it once was, but with sweet and sour sauce and green peas, served in tart shells, this classic is as good as any.
The most common dish is Ribbe is pork belly served with “surkål” (sour cabbage), potatoes and brown sauce.
Pinnekjøtt is salted and dried lamb ribs, served with potatoes and pureed rutabaga.
Lutefisk dried fish cured in lye, is also popular during the Christmas month.
Drink In Oslo
Aquavit has a long and rich history in the Oslo region, and visiting here, you can both learn more about the drink’s historic origins and see how it’s currently being used in new and innovative ways. Aquavit is flavored liquor that has been produced in Scandinavia since the 15th century. This is Norway’s national drink (Linie Aquavit) and is typically sipped straight with Christmas dinner.
Strongly linked with the Scandinavian drinking culture its name is derived from aqua vitae which is Latin for “water of life”.
The tap water in Norway is of excellent quality. You can drink tap water from anywhere as long as nothing else is stated. Bottled water can be bought in supermarkets, kiosks, gas stations and delis. Oslo is a safe city, with a relatively low crime rate.
Beer and vodka are the only alcoholic beverages produced in Norway in any quantity. Norwegian vodka is of particular note and is produced by several distilleries and under several brands. Some akvavit, a traditional Scandinavian flavored spirit, is also made in Norway.
Gløgg is the Norwegian answer to mulled wine, and is often enjoyed in the winter, especially around Christmas time. Gløgg is often enjoyed without alcohol. But feel free to add a little red wine or rum, if you like.
Punsch,” a Scandinavian beverage introduced in the 18th century, derives from the Hindi term for five, referring to the five ingredients that make up the beverage: alcohol, water, sugar, fruit, and spices. The flavor of punch can also be enhanced with liqueur, adding exotic notes such as almond, chocolate, and banana.
Sweet and light, it’s unique, but can be compared to a Moscato wine. Typical viking mead, alcohol level ranges from 4-8%, but can be higher. Mead is sweet and deceptively crushable, with a big honey flavor.
Restaurants in Oslo
Copenhagen might have René Redzepi, but Oslo has no shortage of talented chefs and top places to eat. Boasting a number of Michelin-starred restaurants, the cuisine varies wildly with everything from local Norwegian fare to Indian, Thai, Japanese and even Ethiopian eats. Prices are generally pretty steep but there is a small band of Oslo eateries where fine food and low prices co-exist.
The Oslo restaurants below have been hand-picked by our guide author and are grouped into three pricing categories:
Expensive (over Kr1,000)
Moderate (Kr500 to Kr1,000)
Cheap (up to Kr500)
These Oslo restaurant prices are for an average three-course meal and for half a bottle of house wine or cheapest equivalent per person; they do not include tax or tip. Reservations are recommended wherever possible – and in the case of upscale and popular restaurants, they are essential.
Expensive
Cuisine: Norwegian
Set in a building that dates from 1926, Grefsenkollen offers supper with spectacular views of Oslo as standard. Only using locally produced ingredients, the menu changes depending on what is in season, which can make deciding what to try confusing at times, particularly when confronted by an obscure Norwegian dish. Try the tasting menu instead.
Address: Grefsen, Grefsenkollveien 100, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 79 7060
Website: www.grefsenkollen.no
Cuisine: Scandinavian
One of the new wave of top-end Scandinavian restaurants, the seriously chic Maaemo boasts a brace of Michelin stars and some seriously eye-watering prices. Lucky, then, that the food, all of which is made using locally sourced produce, is utterly delicious and well worth splurging on.
Address: Grønland, Schweigaards gate 15B, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 17 9969
Website: www.maaemo.no
- Spisestedet Feinschmecker
Cuisine: Norwegian
One of Oslo’s Michelin-starred restaurants, Feinschmecker opened in 1990 and rapidly gained a reputation as one of the city’s best eateries. In addition to its à la carte menu, it offers a daily, fixed priced five-course meal. An extensive wine list and daily vegetarian specials are available.
Address: Frogner, Balchens gate 5, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 12 9380
Website: www.feinschmecker.no
Moderate
Cuisine: European
One of Oslo’s cooler mid-range eateries, Markveien Mat & Vinhus looks like an upmarket Parisian brasserie and serves the food to match. Wine is also a big selling point here, although the menu, which features plenty of veal and freshly cooked vegetables, runs it pretty close.
Address: Grünerløkka, Torvbakkgata 12, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 37 2297
Website: www.markveien.no
Cuisine: Asian fusion
Norwegian classics given an Asian makeover might not sound especially appetising, but Südøst manage to make them so. Housed in a pretty old building in the upmarket Grünerløkka district, its minimalist interior and reliably good food has made it a favourite with the local cool crowd.
Address: Grünerløkka, Trondheimsveien 5, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 35 3070
Website: www.sudost.no
Cuisine: European
Located next to the National Theatre, Theatercafeen is one of the best places to spot a star in Oslo, although locals are generally more interested in the excellent food than the chance to ogle Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. A Viennese-style establishment, it’s a good bet if you fancy a decent sandwich or salad.
Address: Sentrum, Stortingsgata 24-26, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 82 4050
Website: www.theatercafeen.no
Cheap
Cuisine: Scottish
The popular Scotsman pub has a straightforward menu of pizzas and steaks. Presentation may be no frills, but meals here are cheap (by Oslo standards) and cheerful. The four-storey wood-panelled pub also does a good selection of beer and has a reliably bustling atmosphere.
Address: Sentrum, Karl Johans gate 17, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 47 4477
Website: www.scotsman.no
Cuisine: Norwegian
Douvrehallen is a bar and restaurant which offers traditional home cooked Norwegian food at affordable prices. The ambience is very informal and there is live music and dance most Friday and Saturday nights.
Address: Storgata 22, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 17 2101
Website: www.dovrehallen.no
Cuisine: Norwegian and European
With an eclectic mix of interior design fittings that range from bicycles swinging from the ceiling to the ceramic busts adorning the walls, Lorry provides its clientele with hearty local and European fare. Doorstep sandwiches, quiche and burgers are popular choices among its many punters.
Address: Homansbyen, Parkveien 12, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 69 6904
Website: www.lorry.no
Oslo Nightlife
Oslo is lively at night, mainly fuelled by the fiery local tipple, akevitt (a spirit flavoured with herbs). Many Norwegians go out late on Fridays and Saturdays after a vorspiel (pre-party) involving drinks at home, so the street atmosphere from 2200 on the weekends can be sprightly.
What’s more, many live acts that descend on the Norwegian capital with music choices ranging from soothing classical to the maniacal metal that the locals can’t seem to get enough of. Conveniently, you can snap up tickets to virtually any performance from the post office.
Bars in Oslo
This music pub is famous for its casual vibe & its playlist featuring a variety of rock classics. Last Train. A small bar down in the center of Oslo, where otherwise nothing bad happens. Rock’n’roll fishbowl. Last Train is one of the most important nightspots in Oslo, much more than just a watering hole: a place where rock music has lived just a little stronger and harder than most other places. A place that has been a central part of a certain type of people’s life, for a short period, or their whole life. here you will find declarations of love, conversations about the record collection, about cutting beer and cutting hair, beer and heartache, about friendship and extreme musical kick.
Address: Karl Johans gt. 45, 0162 Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 41 5293
Website: www.lasttrain.no
The Good Knight is a pleasant bar in the center of Oslo with a focus on chess. We have around 30 tables available for chess, but regardless of whether you want to play or not, you are most welcome to join us!
Address: Badstugata 9, 0183 Oslo.
Contact: hei@goodknight.no
Website: www.goodknight.no
Boasting spectacular views and an extensive (if pricey) cocktail menu, Summit is perched on the 21st floor of the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel and looks out over the Oslofjord. Ultra trendy with chic futuristic décor, this is where the Norwegian capital’s cool crowd come to see, and yes, be seen.
Address: Sentrum, Holbergs gate 30, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 23 29 3600
Website: www.radissonblu.com
Clubs in Oslo
This early twentieth century cinema is now a thriving music and dance venue. It attracts acts from Norway and all over Europe. When there are no concerts scheduled, there is a varied programme of film events, debates, stand up and club nights.
Address: Olaf Ryes plass 11, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 35 6300
Website: www.parkteatret.no
Irish pub with bare brick walls & stripped floors, plus weekly live folk music & big screen sports. Our only Irish coffee provides all four essential food groups in one cup: alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Address: Rådhusgata 28, 0151 Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 33 7005
Website: www.dubliner.no
Despite its rather pervy billing (this is the place to go for ‘sexy time dance’), The Villa is actually the best spot in the Norwegian capital for electronic music. Housed deep within a basement, it doesn’t really get going until after midnight, but when it does it dishes up some seriously dirty beats ranging from drum & bass to cheerful electronica.
Address: Sentrum, Møllergata 23-25, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 93 25 5745
Website: www.thevilla.no
Live music in Oslo
An ‘eco-lighthouse’ down by the river, Blå is considered by many to be the best jazz club in Oslo. Dedicated to up-and-coming acts from all over Norway, it also hosts many big, international names, mostly indie bands, and also welcomes bands specialising in hip hop, soul and dubstep.
Address: Grünerløkka, Brenneriveien 9, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 20 9181
Website: www.blaaoslo.no
One of Oslo’s oldest and most beautiful venues, the baroque Gamle Logen was built in 1836 but has been restored to its former glory. Composer Edvard Grieg was the original proprietor and although his work is still played in its hallowed halls, Gamle Logen now hosts classical concerts featuring music from all over the world.
Address: Sentrum, Grev Wedels Plass 2, Oslo.
Telephone: +47 22 33 4470
Website: www.gamlelogen.no
You’ll here attending the opening concert of the Oslo Jazz Festival. The concert hall’s acoustics were outstanding, perfectly complementing the modern, stylish interior. The rooftop terrace offered a stunning panoramic view. Visit the backstage area, the Main Stage and talk about what happens behind the scenes before the curtain rises. You will also learn about the architecture, stage technology, opera and ballet from our knowledgeable guides.
Address: Kirsten Flagstads Plass 1, 0150 Oslo.
Telephone: +47 21 42 2121
Website: www.operaen.no
