Oslo is compact, creative, and surprisingly close to nature, but it rewards travellers who plan ahead. Here’s what you need to know before visiting Norway’s capital, from transport tips to seasons, budgets, and the best things to do.
Oslo is often the first stop for international visitors to Norway. It’s the country’s capital, its largest city, and the arrival point for most long-haul flights.
But while many people treat Oslo as a quick overnight stop on the way to the fjords, that’s a mistake.
I lived in Oslo for a couple of years and return whenever I can. I’ve seen it in summer heatwaves above 30°C and in deep winter cold below minus 10.
The experience changes dramatically with the seasons, but with the right expectations, Oslo can be a rewarding city at any time of year.
This guide focuses on what you really need to know before you go to Oslo. I wish you the very best! And once you’ve read the guide, if you need more help planning your dream trip to Norway, consider my travel consulting calls.
Watch: Know Before You Go
If you prefer watching videos, I’ve got the perfect one for you over on Life in Norway’s YouTube channel. In this video, I run through everything you need to know before planning a trip to Oslo.
I hope you enjoyed it! Now, read on for more details, useful links, and photos from Norway’s capital city.
Getting to Oslo
Oslo is well connected by air, rail, road and sea. The main airport, Oslo Gardermoen (OSL), lies about 50 kilometres north of the city centre. The fastest way into town is the Airport Express train, but it’s also significantly more expensive.
For most visitors, the regular Vy regional train is the smarter choice. It takes around 25 minutes and costs much less, costing only a few more minutes compared to the express service.
Some budget airlines use Torp Sandefjord Airport, which is much farther from Oslo. If you land there, factor in a long onward journey by bus or train before you reach the capital.
Oslo is also well connected by rail. Direct trains link the city with Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger and Kristiansand, as well as Gothenburg and Stockholm in Sweden
Long-distance buses arrive at Oslo Bus Terminal, right next to Oslo Central Station. International services connect the city with Copenhagen and Stockholm.
Arriving by sea is also possible. There’s an overnight ferry from Kiel in Germany, and the Copenhagen route has recently changed operator from DFDS to Go Nordic Cruise Line.
If you’re visiting on a cruise, find out which dock you’ll use. Smaller ships berth within walking distance of the city centre. Bigger ones tend to dock farther out and require a shuttle bus. Knowing this in advance will help you plan your limited time ashore.
Getting Around Oslo
Oslo is compact and easy to explore on foot. You do not need a car, and in most cases you won’t need a taxi either.
Public transport is efficient and fully integrated. Metro (T-bane), trams, buses and ferries are all part of the same network operated by Ruter. One ticket covers everything within the relevant zones.
The easiest way to get around is by using the Ruter app, which allows you to plan journeys and buy tickets. You can purchase 24-hour or multi-day passes depending on your stay. These tickets also include the ferries to the Oslofjord islands, which is particularly valuable in summer.
If you’re in Oslo for just one day, perhaps on a cruise stop, the hop-on hop-off City Sightseeing bus can be worth considering. It’s not cheap, but in Oslo it does provide a genuinely useful overview of the city and stops at major attractions. Just be careful with timing if you need to return to your ship.
E-scooters and rental bikes are widely available, although you should watch for uneven pavements and follow local parking rules.
Don’t Automatically Buy the Oslo Pass
The Oslo Pass combines public transport with entry to many museums and attractions.
On paper it looks tempting. In practice, it only represents good value if you plan to visit several paid attractions in a short space of time.
Many of Oslo’s best experiences are free: walking the harbour promenade, exploring neighbourhoods, relaxing in parks, or heading into the forest.
The local train from the airport is now included in the pass, but that inclusion has pushed the price up. If you don’t buy the pass until you’re already in the city, you won’t benefit from that airport journey.
My advice is simple. Make a realistic list of the museums and attractions you genuinely want to visit. Add up the normal entry prices and compare them with the cost of the pass before making a decision.
Know the Seasons in Oslo
Oslo changes dramatically through the year.
Summer
Summer brings long days, outdoor concerts, packed cafés and a lively waterfront. The city can feel vibrant and energetic, and swimming in the fjord becomes part of daily life.
But summer can also be expensive, crowded and occasionally surprisingly hot.
Winter
Winter is quieter and colder than many first-time visitors expect. Oslo is often colder than coastal cities like Bergen. Snow is common, the days are short, and some attractions operate reduced hours.
Yet winter also brings a special atmosphere. Christmas markets, snowy parks and floodlit ski trails create a cosy, distinctly Nordic feel.
Spring and Autumn
These shoulder seasons are less predictable but often less crowded and more affordable. Dress in layers and expect rapid changes in the weather.
And one important note: you are very unlikely to see the northern lights in Oslo. While sightings are occasionally reported, the city lies too far south and has too much light pollution. If the aurora is on your bucket list, combine Oslo with a trip much farther north.
Embrace the Weather
Ah, the weather in Oslo. Norwegians live by the saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”
Rain can appear suddenly, even in summer. Winter brings snow, slush and icy pavements. Wind can sweep in from the fjord at any time of year.
Bring waterproof shoes with good grip. Pack a windproof or insulated jacket depending on the season. Dress in layers so you can adapt throughout the day.
With the right mindset, Oslo is enjoyable year-round. Even a fjord sightseeing cruise at minus 13 degrees can be memorable if you’re dressed for it.
Spend Time in Nature
One of Oslo’s greatest surprises is how quickly you can escape into nature.
Within 20 minutes on public transport, you can reach forest trails, lakes and panoramic viewpoints. Take the metro to Frognerseteren for views over the city and access to hiking routes. Head to Sognsvann for an easy lakeside walk or swim in summer.
In winter, these same areas transform into cross-country skiing terrain, complete with groomed tracks and floodlights.
The Oslofjord islands are another highlight. Ferries operate as part of the public transport system. On one ticket, you can hop between islands such as Hovedøya, known for monastery ruins and beaches, or the quieter Gressholmen nature reserve.
Pack a picnic and you’ll discover a side of Oslo many visitors miss entirely.
Explore the Neighbourhoods
Beyond the Opera House and Karl Johans gate, Oslo’s character really shines in its neighbourhoods.
Grünerløkka has a creative, independent feel, with small boutiques, riverside walks and casual cafés. It’s a good place to slow down and experience everyday Oslo life.
Frogner feels more elegant, with wide streets, embassies and access to Vigeland Park. Wander the side streets and you’ll find bakeries, galleries and quiet residential charm.
Oslo rewards curiosity. Step away from the obvious sights and you’ll find a calmer, more local rhythm.
Eating and Drinking in Oslo
Eating out in Oslo can be expensive, but there are ways to manage your budget.
Look for lunchtime specials at cafés and casual restaurants. Bakery chains such as Backstube offer affordable pastries and light meals. In areas like Grønland and Tøyen, you’ll find good-value international cuisine.
Supermarkets such as Rema 1000 and Coop are useful if you’re self-catering. Salad bars can offer decent value for a quick meal.
Alcohol is particularly expensive. If you plan to drink, duty-free purchases on arrival are far cheaper than buying from regular stores. Many Norwegians do exactly that.
Apps to Download Before You Arrive
A few smartphone apps can make your stay much easier. I’d recommend downloading some, or maybe all, of these before your trip.
Ruter – For journey planning and tickets within Oslo and the surrounding region.
Entur – A nationwide public transport planner for trips beyond Oslo.
Yr – Norway’s trusted weather app, ideal for checking hourly forecasts.
Oslo Bysykkel – For short-term bike rentals during the warmer months.
Top Things To Do in Oslo
Oslo combines world-class museums, striking architecture and outdoor spaces in a compact area. There are so many things to do in Oslo, it can be tough to know where to start. So, here’s my recommendations.
Vigeland Park
Within Frogner Park lies Vigeland Park, home to more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. The dramatic Monolith and the iconic Angry Boy statue are highlights, but the entire park is worth at least an hour of your time.
Oslo Opera House
The white marble Oslo Opera House rises directly from the waterfront. You can attend a performance inside, but even if you don’t, walk up the sloping roof for panoramic views across the fjord.
Holmenkollen Ski Jump
The iconic Holmenkollen Ski Jump sits high above the city. Visit the museum, climb the tower for views, or simply explore the surrounding trails.
Akershus Fortress
Overlooking the harbour, Akershus Fortress dates back to medieval times. It’s free to wander the grounds, and the views over the fjord are excellent.
Museums in Oslo
Some of the country’s most famous museums are based in the capital, although many of them are actually over on the upscale Bygdøy peninsula.
Here you’ll find the popular Viking Ship museum (undergoing extensive renovations at the time of writing), the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and several maritime-themed museums. The peninsula is within easy reach of central Oslo by bus, or by a summer-only ferry from in front of the City Hall.
Back downtown, the new National Museum of Norway is the largest art museum in the Nordic region. It combines collections previously spread across several institutions, including the former National Gallery.
Where to Stay in Oslo
Accommodation standards in Oslo have improved significantly over the past decade. Whether you’re travelling on a tight budget or looking for a waterfront boutique stay, you’ll find a good range of options across the city.
Stay Central for Short Visits
If you’re in Oslo for just a night or two, staying close to Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) makes life much easier. You’ll be within walking distance of Karl Johans gate, the Opera House, the waterfront promenade and public transport connections.
This area has a mix of mid-range chains and newer budget hotels. It’s practical rather than romantic, but for short stays it’s hard to beat for convenience, especially if you’re arriving late or departing early by train or airport rail.
Waterfront & Design Hotels
If you’re looking for something more atmospheric, head towards Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen. This redeveloped waterfront district is home to stylish restaurants, harbour views and some of Oslo’s most contemporary hotels.
One of the best-known luxury options is The Thief, located at the tip of Tjuvholmen. It offers modern design, fjord views and a generous breakfast, although prices reflect the setting.
This area is ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with evenings by the water, but it does come at a premium.
Grünerløkka & Frogner
For a more local feel, consider staying slightly outside the very centre.
Grünerløkka offers a creative, neighbourhood vibe with cafés, bars and riverside walks. Accommodation options are more limited, but it’s a great base if you prefer independent shops and a less corporate feel.
Frogner is quieter and more residential, close to Vigeland Park and elegant streets lined with embassies. It works well if you want a calmer atmosphere while still being within easy reach of the centre by tram.
Budget Options & Hostels
Oslo isn’t traditionally known as a budget destination, but there are affordable choices if you book early. Several modern budget chains have opened near the central station and in Grønland.
Hostels are fewer than in many European capitals, but options do exist, particularly for younger travellers or those prioritising cost over comfort.
If you’re travelling in summer, especially during festivals or major events, expect prices to rise quickly. Booking well in advance can make a significant difference.
Apartments & Longer Stays
If you’re staying for several days or travelling as a family, serviced apartments can offer better value than hotel rooms. Having a kitchen also helps manage food costs, which can quickly add up in Norway.
Just remember that Oslo is compact. Staying slightly outside the historic centre is rarely a problem, as long as you’re close to a metro or tram stop.
Oslo isn’t cheap, but it rewards smart planning. Choose your neighbourhood based on how you want to experience the city, and book early if you’re visiting in peak summer or around Christmas.
Where to Eat in Oslo
The large international population of Oslo ensures there is a wide range of cuisines on offer, to suit most budgets.
For those watching the pennies, the city’s best value food is served up by ethnic cooks in the Grønland and Tøyen neighbourhoods. Good value meals especially at lunchtime can be found in Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese and Indian restaurants.
You’ll find a mix of high-end grub and takeaways in the trendy Grünerløkka neighbourhood just north of the city centre. The nearby Mathallen food hall gathers together some of the city’s best eateries under one roof.
Another option is the social entrepreneurship project Vippa. This former waterfront warehouse is now home to a selection of food stalls run by recent immigrants from all over the world.
Beyond Oslo
As much as there is to see and do in the capital, there are so many great places within easy reach by bus or train. If you are staying in Oslo for longer than two days, you should definitely consider a trip farther afield.
Consider one of these day trip recommendations, such as the pretty fjordside town Drøbak (best in the summer) or a stroll around the immaculate old town of Fredrikstad.
While it can also be done in a day, the Winter Olympic town of Lillehammer has enough of interest to warrant an overnight stop, especially if you’re moving on further north towards Trondheim or west towards the fjords.