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What to expect in Oslo

Oslo is the pulsing heart of Norway, a city where all the serene tranquility of nature collides with vibrant urban living. It’s true, you’ll fall in love with Oslo as soon as you step off the plane.

Norway's spectacular countryside may get all the tourist attention, but Oslo deserves some hype too.

The cool capital invigorates its visitors thanks to an enviable combination of urban sleekness and natural charm, with forests, islands, and lakes on its doorstep. Everything in Norway comes with a scenic backdrop.

The Norwegian scenery is awe-inspiring, whether viewed from the deck of a boat or through the window of a car or train. Travelers can discover deep blue, seemingly endless fjords, one after another.

When it comes to exploring the city, let us be your guide to Oslo.

Best time to fly to Oslo

Planning a trip to Oslo from the US? The best time to visit this captivating city is during the late spring and summer months (from May to August), when the days are long, and the city bursts into life with outdoor events and festivals.

That being said, Oslo’s magical winters, from November to March, offer a majestic snowy landscape - ideal for skiing and cozying up in local cafés.

For lower airfares from the US to Oslo, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, April to early May or September to October. These periods provide the perfect sweet spot, with milder crowds, beautiful fall colors or the blossoming of spring, plus the bonus of more budget-friendly prices. Regardless of when you visit, Oslo's unrivaled charm ensures a memorable experience in every season!

What to do in Oslo

Oslo overflows with world-class museums covering wide-ranging subjects. Meet Edvard Munch and his infamous painting The Scream at the Munch Museum, learn about the impressive history of the Nobel Peace Prize in the stunning building that’s home to the Nobel Peace Center, plus so much more.

Travel the waterfront to journey through time from the medieval Akershus fortress and castle to the 21st-century Opera House, designed to resemble a floating iceberg. It's a great public space and visitors are encouraged to walk and sit on the roof, enjoying a different view of the city they’ve just been exploring!

You can also exercise your camera at many more places around the city. Holmenkollen, for example, is a ski-jump hilltop above the town and a high-altitude landmark with spectacular views.

You’ll find Vigeland Park is also packed with clever, whimsical sculptures that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Day trips from Oslo

You can get a fabulous taste of the Norwegian outdoors without leaving Oslo. Still, the city is a gateway to spectacular landscapes in Norway's prized countryside, for those seeking bigger adventures.

Apart from anything else, leaving the city of Oslo gives you a higher chance of spotting the elusive Northern Lights, with northern Norway offering the best chances of success. But the country offers so much for nature enthusiasts.

To start, the train journey from Oslo to Bergen is considered one of the most spectacular in the world, and from Bergen, the west coast's breathtaking fjords beckon.

Navigate wooded mountain slopes and pass beside gushing rivers. Stop off for unmatched hiking opportunities, to go kayaking or boating in pristine waters, and enjoy brilliant ski facilities (between December and April).

Dining in Oslo

Thanks to Norway's long and magnificent coastline, you're promised fresh off-the-boat seafood at restaurants all across Oslo.

Aker Brygge, the vibrant waterfront district, is the perfect venue for alfresco fun on long summer nights. It's a former shipyard that was given a new lease on life. In a prime destination for eating, drinking, and shopping, you’re guaranteed to love this area.

Rumor has it that Oslo's coolest neighborhood is Grünerløkka. A magnet for the city's hipsters and creative types, and home to the city's most interesting food, coffee, cocktails, boutiques, and design, it's great for exploration.

But Oslo is also home to food from all over the world. The Grønland area is the perfect place to start, with food from India, Eastern Europe, and Africa at your fingertips.

Shopping in Oslo

From homemade Norwegian crafts to cutting-edge creations and boujie boutiques – shopping in Oslo serves up delight after delight.

US tourists seeking an authentic experience should head to the bustling streets of Grünerløkka, where vintage stores and local designers showcase Oslo's creative flair.

For traditional souvenirs, such as hand-knitted sweaters or Sami crafts, explore the shops around Karl Johans gate and the Norwegian Folk Museum's gift shop.

Bargain hunters will adore Oslo’s flea markets. The Blå Sunday Market along the Akerselva river brings that energetic atmosphere with live music, food stalls, and an array of funky finds.

The Vestkanttorvet Flea Market, operational on Saturdays from spring to fall, is another must-visit. Known for its vintage furniture, glassware, and art, showcasing Norway's rich craftsmanship.

Getting around Oslo

Getting around Oslo is no problem thanks to the generous number of transport options available. From accessible walking and biking routes to a reliable public transport system – you have plenty of ways to get around the city.

When it comes to public transport, expect a combination of buses, trams, ferries, and a metro (T-Bane) to whisk you around. An Oslo Pass can be a cost-effective way to explore, offering unlimited travel and entry to many attractions.

The city is also a paradise for those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, with extensive walking paths and dedicated cycling routes crisscrossing the city and its picturesque surroundings.

And of course, taxis are on hand for longer journeys or for those that prefer to travel in style and comfort. Finding a ride is easy, simply hail a cab off the street or download Uber.

Oslo and beyond

Norway’s capital is a gateway to Scandinavia and the rest of Europe, with effortless connections from Oslo.

Hop on a train and find yourself transported to charming Norwegian cities like Bergen or Trondheim, where the scenic journey reveals the country's breathtaking landscapes, from fjords to forests.

For broader horizons, Oslo's well-connected airport is your launchpad to Europe, offering flights to vivacious capitals and hidden gems alike. Imagine breakfast in Oslo and dinner in Paris, Barcelona, or Rome!

For US tourists looking for their next adventure, Oslo presents itself as the perfect starting point thanks to its close proximity to mesmerizing neighboring cities and countries. Note that you can visit more than one European destination on a single Icelandair ticket.