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 Known for its seamless blend of natural beauty and modern urban life, Oslo offers a unique Scandinavian experience. From its iconic waterfront, dotted with sleek architecture, to its cultural landmarks like the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum, and the Royal Palace, Oslo delights visitors with its rich history and contemporary charm. With a thriving arts scene, innovative cuisine, and a commitment to sustainability, Oslo is a dynamic city that captivates travellers with its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and progressive spirit.

Oslo cityscape Krzysztof Zalewski/Shutterstock.com

The City

Nestled between the Oslofjord and the surrounding green hills, Oslo is a vibrant city which has evolved from its humble origins as a Viking settlement to become a thriving modern metropolis.

Founded around the year 1000 AD by the Viking king Harald Hardrada, Oslo served as an important trading hub. Throughout the Middle Ages, the city experienced various power struggles and changed hands between Norwegian, Danish, and Swedish rulers.

In 1624, a devastating fire razed much of the city to the ground. This catastrophe presented an opportunity for King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway to redesign Oslo, granting it city status and renaming it Christiania.

The city flourished under Danish rule and later came under Swedish control during the Napoleonic era. Fast forward to 1905, when Norway gained independence from Sweden, and Christiania regained its original name, Oslo, as the capital of the newly established Norwegian state.

The early 20th century witnessed significant urban development, with grand public buildings and cultural institutions shaping the city's skyline.

In recent years, Oslo has become renowned for its sustainable practices and environmental initiatives, including its eco-friendly transportation. Parks and green spaces are integral to Oslo's urban fabric, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities to connect with nature.

Today, Oslo is a cosmopolitan city, blending a modern and innovative outlook with its historical charm. It is home to world-class museums, including the iconic Viking Ship Museum and the Munch Museum. The city's culinary scene is thriving, with a diverse range of international cuisines and a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

Street in Oslo, Norway Scharfsinn/Shutterstock.com

Do & See

Oslo is a lively city, brimming with museums, art, and entertainment, ensuring visitors are constantly engaged and, therefore, never bored. In the heart of the city, one can easily transition from exploring Viking history and charming old wooden neighbourhoods to immersing themselves in the hip districts with innovative architecture and contemporary art. The cityscape is alive with frequent festivals and concerts, scattering delightful melodies and festivities throughout Oslo.

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Oslo Opera House

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Aker Brygge & Tjuvholmen

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Vigeland Park

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Munch Museum

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Akershus Fortress

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Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset)

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Bygdøy

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Damstredet & Telthusbakken

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Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

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Museum of Cultural History

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Botanical Garden

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Tusenfryd Amusement Park

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Holmenkollen Ski Museum

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Sognsvann Lake

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Kon-Tiki Museum

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National Museum — Architecture

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Norwegian Maritime Museum

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Center for Studies of the Holocaust & Religious Minorities

Norwegian lamb dish LMspencer/Shutterstock.com

Dining

Oslo is an exceptionally modern capital with a large variety of ethnic cuisines, gourmet restaurants, and traditional eateries. Norway's capital is also one of the most expensive cities in the world. For that reason, prices are generally high. However, if you are travelling on a budget, cheaper alternatives serving good quality food can also be found all around the city.

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Sanguine Brasserie

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Syverkiosken

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Ekebergrestauranten

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Cheap Eats in Oslo

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Theatercaféen

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Munchies Grünerløkka

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Alex Sushi

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Louise Restaurant & Bar

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Delicatessen

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Trattoria Popolare

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Palace Grill

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Hanami

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Stortorvets Gjæstgiveri

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Bølgen & Moi

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Yaya's Restaurant Vika

Group of friends in a cafe Jacob Lund/Shutterstock.com

Cafés

Cosy espresso bars, charming bakeries, and tasty snacks can be found in every corner of Oslo’s districts, and the proximity to sublime landscapes surely makes a coffee break in the city a delightful one.

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Tim Wendelboe

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Café Sør

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Skansen

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Hjemme hos Svigers

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Åpent Bakeri

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Fuglen

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Stockfleths

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Café Sara

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Café Laundromat

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Javelin Coffee & Tea

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Espresso House

Sunset in Oslo, Norway basiczto/Shutterstock.com

Bars & Nightlife

Oslo offers an abundance of options for an enjoyable evening, with a vibrant selection of top-notch wine bars, renowned clubs, and innovative night spots. Whether you prefer fancy cocktail bars or more chilled venues, the central area of the city caters to diverse tastes.

For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Grünerløkka is the perfect destination. Here, you can unwind with a refreshing beer in the company of a relaxed crowd.

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Torggata Botaniske

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Territoriet

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Blå

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Aku-Aku

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Bar Boca

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The Villa

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Dattera til Hagen

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The Dubliner Folk Pub

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T.G.I. Fridays

Girl window-shopping Daniel_Dash/Shutterstock.com

Shopping

In Oslo, you'll discover a wide array of shopping options. From sprawling shopping malls and department stores to unique boutiques and charming shopping streets, the Norwegian capital has got it all. Additionally, antique shops, flea markets, and local handicraft shops are also very popular with both locals and visitors alike.

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Aker Brygge

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Oslo City

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Cappelens Forslag Bookshop

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Birkelunden Flea Market

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Gutta på Haugen

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Paleet

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Chillout

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Arkaden

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Eger

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Steen & Strøm

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Byporten

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Bryggeriutsalget Grünerløkka

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Utopia Retro Modern

View over Oslo Beas777/Shutterstock.com

Tourist Information

Passport/Visa

Norway can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country.
International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

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Oslo Airport (OSL)

Oslo's main airport (OSL), also known as Oslo Gardermoen Airport or simply Gardermoen, is situated 50 kilometres north of the Norwegian capital. The airport coaches and high-speed trains depart regularly for central Oslo.

The train takes about 20 minutes and there are two trains to choose from:

- The Airport Express Train (Flytoget)
- Vy (formerly NSB), the national Norwegian railway company

There are also several buses to take from the airport, one of them is Airport Express Coach (Flybussen) which runs every 20 minutes every day between the airport and the city centre.

Taxis are represented at the airport, just head over to the taxi information desk in the arrival hall where you will get information about the fixed rates of the different taxi companies. They can also help you book a taxi, otherwise, the taxi rank is just outside the arrival hall.

Address: Edvard Munchs Veg, Gardermoen

Email:

Phone: +47 64 81 20 00

Website: avinor.no/en/airport/oslo-airport

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TORP Sandefjord Airport (TRF)

TORP Sandefjord Airport (TRF) is located in Sandefjord, approximately 120 kilometres southwest of Oslo's city centre. Torp-Ekspressen coaches will take you to Oslo's bus terminal from the airport.

Vy (formerly NSB) has a train service to Oslo that runs from the train station by the name of Torp, located between Stokke and Sandefjord. There is a connected shuttle bus service between the airport and the train station that takes approximately 4 minutes.

Taxis and car rental companies are also represented at the airport.

Address: Torpveien 130, Sandefjord

Email:

Phone: +47 33 42 70 00

Website: torp.no/en/welcome-to-torp-sandefjord-airport

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Oslo is in late spring and during the summer, as the temperatures rise and you can enjoy numerous outdoor activities. It can still get chilly, however, so make sure to pack proper clothes. Spring and summer are some of the most popular seasons to travel to Oslo, especially from May to July. During this period, you will experience nearly 24 hours of daylight.

For those who are interested in winter sports, November to April are good periods to visit. In the north of the city, there are great skiing opportunities but be aware the temperatures are around freezing and the daylight hours are short.

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Public Transport

Oslo has convenient public transportation, and there are multiple options for travelling around the city, including buses, trams, subways, ferries, and local trains.

The public transport system is operated by Ruter, and they are all part of the same ticketing and pricing system. Tickets can be purchased from Ruter's Customer Service Centre (in front of Oslo Central Station), from ticket machines at metro stations, or in most Narvesen and 7Eleven shops. Single tickets can be bought on the buses and ferries, but be aware it gets more expensive than tickets bought in advance. There is also Ruter's mobile ticket app where you can buy single, 24-hour, 7-day, and 30-day tickets before boarding.

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Website: ruter.no/en/

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Taxi

You can easily catch a taxi from one of Oslo’s many taxi stands or call ahead to book. Do not try to hail cabs on the street, fares are more expensive than if you book one by telephone.

Oslo Taxi
+47 02323

Norgestaxi
+47 08000

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Post

In addition to the regular post offices, many grocery stores have a postal service. Stamps are also available from most newsagents and tobacconists.

Address: Grønland Post Office - Olafiagangen 5, Oslo

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Phone: +47 22 03 00 00

Website: www.posten.no

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Pharmacy

In Oslo, some of the largest pharmacy chains include Vitusapotek, Ditt Apotek, and Apotek 1. The pharmacy Vitusapotek on Jernbanetorget is open around the clock.

Address: Vitusapotek - Jernbanetorget 4B, Oslo

Email:

Phone: +47 23 35 81 00

Website: www.vitusapotek.no

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Telephone

Country code: +47
Area code for Oslo: 022, 023 or 024

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Electricity

230 V, 50 Hz

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