Oslo trips and vacations

Nestled in a valley surrounded by fjords, mountains and forests, the historic city of Oslo has plenty to do year-round. This friendly Norwegian gem has a laid-back urban lifestyle and is brimming with Viking landmarks, modern buildings and cultural charm. Whether you’re exploring the city, waterfront or countryside nearby, trips to Oslo offer the perfect base for discovering Southern Norway.

Oslo vacation highlights

Akershus Fortress

Discover Viking history

You can’t go on a trip to Oslo without exploring its Viking history. The city was founded at the end of the Viking period and is home to three of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world. Discover what life was like in this part of the world a thousand years ago at The Viking Planet, an immersive digital experience.

Island hopping

For an exciting and cheap activity during your vacation in Oslo, go island hopping in the Oslo Fjord. Start your day trip by catching a ferry near the Aker Brygge wharf. Explore ancient Cistercian Order monastery ruins, dating from 1147, on Hovedoya or visit Heggholmen to see its old lighthouse. Take time out on beaches and admire the colorful summer cabins on the island of Lindoya.

Norwegian delicacies

Love seafood? Indulge in freshly caught king crab and Atlantic cod. The latter is in season from January to April, so if fish is your thing, time your trip to Oslo during those months. Meat eaters aren’t ignored: traditional game meats like moose and reindeer are big in Oslo. And everyone should try a sliver of ‘brunost,’ a traditional brown cheese with surprising sweetness.

Oslo: Know before you go

Language

Norwegian

Currency

Norwegian krone (kr)

Time zone

UTC+1 (CET) and UTC+2 (CEST)

High season

June – August

Low season

January – February

Find the best time to go to Oslo

Weather in Oslo

March – May: Spring in Oslo can quickly turn from sunshine to surprise snow showers. Keep your eyes peeled for tulips and daffodils come April.

June – August: Summer temperatures average a mild 64°F. Kick back on urban beaches, then enjoy nighttime concerts on the Opera House roof. Pack an umbrella, just in case.

September – November: The fall foliage is gorgeous here, but daytime temperatures lean toward chilly. And the winds can pick up in the afternoon.

December – February: Winter temperatures often dip below freezing. Make the most of the snow on the ‘Korketrekkeren’ (The Corkscrew) toboggan trail.

Events in Oslo

Holmenkollen Ski Festival (March): Norwegians have cheered on snow sports heroes here since 1892. For an authentic experience, spark a campfire alongside the cross-country ski track.

National Day (May): Brass bands pound the streets in honor of Norway’s independence. Enjoy a breakfast feast, grab your flag and wave to the royals on their palace balcony.

Midsummer (June): At the Norwegian Folk Museum, ride in a horse and carriage, weave your own flower crown and try the traditional ‘lefse’ bread.

Oslo Sauna Festival (November): Smoke saunas were first introduced by the Vikings. For a one-of-a-kind experience, head to SALT cultural arena for guided meditation, DJ sets and karaoke while you sweat.

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The best neighborhoods in Oslo

Sentrum

If you want to be in the heart of the city, then Sentrum is where to stay in Oslo. This the perfect base for exploring, with landmarks such as the historic Royal Palace, Karl Johans Gate and the Norwegian Parliament all within walking distance of each other. Plus, you’ll be close to the harbor and have a good selection of bars and eateries to choose from.

Good for: Landmarks, walking, waterfront

Frogner

Frogner is the best neighborhood to stay in if you love green spaces, art galleries and top-notch restaurants. It boasts the largest green space in Oslo, Frogner Park, and the popular free Vigeland Sculpture Park with more than 200 sculptures. Browse art galleries and antiques shops, or drink coffee in cozy cafes as you watch the world go by.

Good for: Green spaces, art galleries, restaurants

Grünerløkka

‘Lokka,’ as the locals call it, is the best area to stay in Oslo for a laid-back bohemian vibe. Think less touristy and more ‘real life,’ with a great mix of shops, bars and cafes. Admire the decorative street art while deciding which restaurant to try next. Or, stroll the banks of the Akerselva river where you’ll spot waterfalls and remnants of industrial history.

Good for: Culture, restaurants, nightlife, street art

Things to do in Oslo

Frogner Park

Family friendly things to do

There are plenty of things to do with family in Oslo, however young or old. Winter sports fans will love the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and the panoramic views from the top of the ski jump hill. With simulator technology you can safely experience the thrill of the jump. For adventure and fun visit TusenFryd, the largest amusement park in Norway.

Shopping

Shopping in Oslo runs the gamut from multi-level malls and chain stores to edgy boutiques displaying one-off creations. Explore side streets for vintage shops, handmade craft stores and antique curiosities. Head to iconic department store GlasMagasinet in Stortorvet square for fashion and Scandinavian-designed home items. Steen & Strom is the place to go to splash out on international luxury brands.

Take in the culture

Museums in Oslo cater to all tastes. See iconic paintings such as ‘The Scream’ by Edvard Munch at the MUNCH art museum, learn about the historic Akershus Fortress or get interactive at the Norwegian Museum of Science and Technology. For a sobering experience, visit the Norwegian Center for Holocaust and Minority Studies for a modern exhibition on genocide.

Nightlife

When the sun goes down, it’s time to experience the nightlife in Oslo. Bla, on the banks of the river Akerselva, has regular DJ, jazz and hip-hop nights. Kafe Haerverk buzzes with experimental and independent music. If rum’s your drink of choice, don’t miss Aku-Aku, a tiki bar with the largest rum collection in Norway.

Places to eat

Restaurants in Oslo are plentiful in number and variety. For a special dining experience, book a table well in advance for Michelin-starred Maaemo, where only Norwegian ingredients are used. Traditional Nordic cuisine and city views are on the menu at BAR Vulkan’s rooftop terrace while the freshest seafood is never hard to find at harbor restaurants.

Free things to do

One of the most unusual free things to do in Oslo is walking on the marble roof of the Opera House. It’s a must-do for incredible views. Head to the Botanical Garden to soothe your senses in ‘Oldemors hage,’ the sensory garden. Like a long walk? Pack your sneakers and amble along the Harbour Promenade.

Plan your trip to Oslo

Budget

For a cheap trip to Oslo, take advantage of its lofty peaks and picturesque islands. Fuel up with a cappuccino for about 50 Norwegian kroner (kr). A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around kr250. Cut costs with street food superstars like the Norwegian waffle. A beer costs around kr111, and a short taxi ride is around kr80.

Day trips from Oslo

The charming coastal city of Drøbak — the supposed hometown of Santa Claus — is just an hour away by bus. Whatever the season, buy a bauble for your tree before enjoying some harborside seafood. Roughly an hour west, Kongsberg is a time capsule of Norway’s silver mining heritage. Learn how the miners lived by traveling deep underground at the Kongsberg Silver Mines.

Getting around Oslo

Oslo’s city center is compact and easy to explore on foot. But to reach other areas of the city, you’ll need to use public transportation. The Oslo Pass gives you unlimited travel on trams, subways, buses and public ferries. It also offers free admission to select museums. Check out the city’s bike-share services if you’re in the mood to exert some pedal power.

FAQs about Oslo vacations

The hottest month in Oslo is July, when temperatures peak at 77ºF.
The Norwegian krone (NOK) is the official currency. From small purchases to tipping, keeping a little cash handy during your trip to Oslo is a good idea.
You should be able to see all the top city sights and key locations on a three to four day trip to Oslo. But for a more in-depth experience, and to go further afield in Southern Norway, extend your vacation to a full week.
Oslo is generally considered a safe place to visit, especially if you stick to areas popular with tourists. As with any destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure. Check any travel advisories or safety recommendations to ensure your vacation to Oslo is relaxing and stress-free.
Whether you're a see-every-sight traveler or a more relaxed explorer, the cost of your city break in Oslo will be shaped in part by your plans. You'll want to factor in everything from activities to meals, on top of your Oslo flights and hotels.
January is the coolest time of year to visit. Set off on your Oslo trip then and you can anticipate lows of 7ºF.
Most people you meet will likely be speaking Norwegian. Mastering a few local expressions can be a fun way to break the ice and connect with people during your city break in Oslo.
Whether a short city break or longer, vacations to Oslo are all about experiencing that special Scandinavian charm. There’s plenty to do both indoors and outdoors, from art galleries, museums and shopping centers to kayaking, hiking and biking. Ski resorts such as Skimore Oslo are just 30 minutes from the city. For warm weather and longer days, visit Oslo from June to August.
With an average rainfall of 5.9 inches, August is the wettest month to go on an Oslo vacation. When the skies turn gray, venture indoors and enjoy the city's shopping malls, art galleries, cafes and more.
Airfares to Oslo are most affordable in June. This makes it an ideal time to look for discounts on Oslo flights and hotels.
A city break in Oslo is perfect. The center is compact, so you can explore much of it on foot. And with easy access to public transportation and rental bikes, you can venture beyond the central attractions. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or lapping up the magnificent views on mountains, Oslo has the best of both worlds.

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