Is Oslo worth visiting in Norway?
Being introduced to the art of Edvard Munch was a highlight of my time in Oslo…
The Norwegian artist’s work is infectious in the capital, as I found out wandering the immaculate streets, and discovering modern quirks on every corner…
Oslo is definitely worth visiting!
There is much more to the Norwegian capital than art though, with Norway’s vast history showcased through some unique museums, and an archetypal fortress, which towers above the city’s port.
I headed over to Oslo to tick off a new country, and find out what the way of life is like in Scandinavia.
Harsh weather conditions and a very high cost of living in Oslo can make it a tricky city to navigate, so I have included the best things to do, some tips to save money, and an awesome hotel which I stayed in.
Let’s go and find the best spots in the city!
The Norway flag flying proud.
Why visit Oslo?
Natural beauty, vast history, and creativity are all present in the dynamic city of Oslo.
When visiting the Scandinavian countries you are guaranteed a culture shock, as life is so different up there.
Norwegian Vikings were known for their long-distance expeditions, trading, and raids, which significantly shaped European history, and also brought some international influence into the Norwegian capital.
There is so much to see and do in Oslo, but starting with appreciating the modern creative aesthetics of the city is a great starting point.
It is like walking into a futuristic city.
Art visuals at Oslo Opera House.
Enjoy the city’s beautiful aesthetics.
Oslo is a city with unique aesthetics, as the urban minimalism architecture combines perfectly with the natural beauty of the city, along with the immaculately clean spaces, to create a utopian vibe.
The harbour area is a great place to experience a unique visual juxtaposition, with the modern Munch Museum and Opera House on the waterfront overlooking the age-old docked ships, and Akershus Fortress.
A traditional way of immersing in the natural surroundings is by taking part in the fjord sauna culture.
Oslo has a growing culture of fjord saunas, where people enjoy the combination of intense heat followed by a cold plunge into the fjord, even during winter.
We observed locals doing this ‘wellness’ activity, but we were more than happy to not jump into the freezing water ourselves!
As we wandered around Oslo, we found it to be visually appealing throughout the city.
Looking out at the beautiful port of Oslo.
A striking piece of architecture on the waterfront.
Oslo Opera House was my favourite building in the city, with its Scandinavian minimalism style slotting into the banks of the port area perfectly.
Its design is said to resemble the surrounding Norwegian landscape, and in particular a glacier or an iceberg rising from the Oslofjord.
I really enjoyed walking up the steep slope to the roof for awesome views of the harbour.
The atmosphere in the area was laid back with tourists and locals spending their mornings on a leisurely stroll around the building.
There are nearly as many birds as people, with the friendly animals coming to say hello as we stood at the edge of the roof looking over the city.
We just had a brief wander inside to grab a drink, but if you want to explore in more detail, there are regular events taking place there.
On a night, the unique futuristic building glows up the harbour!
The Opera House is one of the quirkiest buildings in the city.
Explore its world famous art scene.
Oslo has a vibrant and world-class art scene that encompasses a wide range of artistic expressions, from traditional to contemporary art, through modern museums, quirky street art, and random statues.
Here are four art museums for you to consider:
The Munch Museum.
The National Museum.
Astrup Fearnley Museum.
Henrik Ibsen Museum.
On a shorter itinerary, you may struggle to fit more than one of these museums into your plans, so I would recommend Munch Museum to be your priority.
Munch Museum.
No Oslo visit is complete without a trip to Munch Museum.
The museum is dedicated to the works of Norwegian painter Edvard Munch, and houses an extensive collection of his original work.
The building’s beautiful aesthetics, along with creative vibes inside, made it a pleasure to explore Munch Museum.
Get ready to experience a captivating journey through the mind of one of the most influential artists in modern art history, and one of Oslos’ greatest treasures.
My favourite Museum in Oslo.
The famous Scream painting.
The highlight of Munch Museum, and the most iconic piece of art by Edvard Munch is the painting named ‘The Scream’, which is located on the second floor.
Although the original work of art is not considered for sale due to its cultural and historical significance in the city of Oslo, previous versions of the painting have sold for over $100 million dollars.
So the opportunity to enjoy the original oil on canvas painting from 1893 should not be missed.
The famous Scream painting in Munch Museum.
13 floors of art.
Since the Munch Museum opened its doors in its new location in 2021, it now offers visitors 13 floors of art, taking you on an immersive journey through Munch’s life and legacy.
You will also find the largest permanent collection of Munch’s works in the world in the museum, with over 1,000 paintings, and 4,000 drawings.
On one of the floors, there was a space for visitors to draw using Munch style paper templates.
We also enjoyed the floor which has a giant cinema room, and some cosy seating areas. We watched a short film about Munch, which was very creative, but hard to understand.
All part of his genius creativity!
Some more colourful paintings.
An awesome skybar.
The creative vibes of Munch Museum continue up to its highest floor, with a contemporary sky bar greeting visitors, with minimalist decor, a stylish vibe, and fantastic views of the city.
Edvard Munch’s works and Norwegian culture is infectious within the building, so it makes for a unique energy in the rooftop space.
I noticed that visitors can select from craft cocktails, wine, and local beers, along with fresh Nordic small plates.
You don’t want to miss a refreshing drink after you have finished your exploration!
River views at sunset.
Best time to visit Oslo.
Oslo's location in the northern part of Europe contributes to its generally colder climate, whichever time of year you visit.
With Oslo’s continental climate, it experiences more significant temperature swings between seasons.
Winters are always cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers can be pleasantly mild, however, not as warm as European destinations further south.
Spring & Summer.
Exploring parks, taking fjord cruises, and enjoying outdoor festivals are the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Oslo in warmer months.
Temperatures between 15-25°C make the Norwegian capital pleasant for around half of the year, with the midnight sun providing extended daylight hours, ideal for squeezing in more activities into your itinerary.
Autumn & Winter.
When the autumn and winter months arrive, outdoor activities are not as appealing, with very cold wind, and snow making an appearance often.
Average temperatures at this time of year in Oslo usually range from -10°C to 10°C, so I would recommend that you include many of the indoor activity highlights in the city at this time of year.
Festivities can be fun in Oslo, with Christmas markets adding to the city’s charm.
The birds are very friendly near the Opera House.
A quirky information board in the centre.
Is Oslo safe?
Scandinavian cities are very safe, relative to other parts of the world, and this is exactly the vibe which we experienced.
Oslo is pleasant to explore with efficient public transport networks, clean streets, and peaceful evenings. Whether you're wandering through the city, or enjoying its surrounding nature, Oslo's welcoming atmosphere ensures a worry-free travel experience.
With police presence in the city, pleasant and helpful locals at all major tourist attractions, and well signposted areas, you can relax and concentrate on the cultural and historical highlights of Oslo.
Wandering up the steep Opera House.
Is Oslo expensive?
I found Oslo to be very expensive in general, but I do expect this when visiting Scandinavia.
Accommodation: Average hotel prices range from £100 to £250 per night, with hostels not too much cheaper per person.
Dining out: Restaurant prices also reflect the city’s high cost of living, with a meal costing anywhere between £20-£40 at an above average place. Fast food is slightly cheaper, but still comes in at more than most European countries.
Attractions: I found attractions to be more reasonable, with the popular museums costing less than £20 to enter, especially with them being good value for money, with in-depth exhibitions, immaculate spaces, and helpful staff.
Travel around the city: Public transport prices are reasonable with a single ticket costing around £3, and day pass costing around £10.
Inside a small bar.
I recommend that you purchase a Oslo Pass which will save you money on transport, attractions, and dining out around the city.
The trams are colourful in Oslo.
Other things to do in Oslo.
Here are some awesome options to add to your Oslo itinerary:
Visit Akershus Fortress.
From my experience, a must do in Norway is exploring its history through ancient relics, and Akershus Fortress represents the country’s medieval past, military heritage, and architectural evolution.
A wander from the city centre to the fortress also makes for a nice scenic stroll.
Akershus Castle (Akershus Slott) dates back to the late 13th century and has served as both a royal residence and a military stronghold, so we found exploring its grand halls, exhibits, and dungeons to be an interesting activity.
Akershus Fortress.
The grounds of the fortress are very scenic, and offer awesome views of the Fjord.
We enjoyed our detailed examination of the cannons and exterior buildings.
The guided tours on site will cover both the inside and outside of the vicinity!
There are some beautiful cannons at the fortress.
Take a scenic fjord cruise.
If you have a longer itinerary, then taking a scenic fjord cruise is a must do in Oslo, as it will allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Akershus Fortress and the Opera House both offer picturesque backdrops on the banks of the fjord as ships leave, and then re-enter the port area.
Official Oslofjord cruises can be enjoyed on different types of boats, however, all of them offer visitors some of the best things to see in Oslo.
The highest rated tour is the two hour sightseeing cruise on a sailing boat, which passes by small islands, picturesque bays, and colourful homes on the banks of Oslo.
This option also offered us blankets and outdoor heating on the deck, as we visited just as the weather was turning snappier in September.
A ship in the port.
Take a city tour to learn some interesting history.
If you want to learn about Oslo as you explore, then a city tour is a must.
Guided Walking Tour in Central Oslo.
Walking around Central Oslo in this guided group setting is fun and efficient, with popular stops including Akershus Fortress, Oslo Opera House, Karl Johans Street, and Christiania Torv.
The experienced guides speak with good clear communication, so it is easy to understand.
Enjoying the walking tour.
Fram Museum.
The Fram Museum is dedicated to Norway’s polar exploration history, and it is located on the Bygdøy Peninsula in Oslo.
It focuses on the Norwegian explorers who ventured into the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Although we found it tricky to visit the museum on a shorter visit to the Norwegian capital, it was worth it when we saw ‘the Fram’.
The famous wooden ship is the centrepiece of the museum, and historically has been used by explorers like Fridtjof Nansen, Otto Sverdrup, and Roald Amundsen.
We enjoyed the interactive exhibits about polar expeditions, life in extreme environments, and the challenges faced by these explorers.
Of course, boarding the Fram itself was fun, as we explored its interior!
It is definitely one of the best things to see in Oslo.
The Historical Museum.
The Historisk Museum is located very centrally in Oslo, and costs a reasonable amount, so it is a fun activity, especially in the winter time.
Head over to the Museum and learn about the history and cultural heritage of Norway, including the Viking age.
I saw the world's best preserved Viking helmet, which is pretty awesome!
I also enjoyed the featured exhibitions related to the Inuit and other indigenous peoples of the Arctic, as the museum displayed original weapons and tools that were used for hunting and cooking, thousands of years ago.
There are also a couple of original Inuit coats, which are really heavy and would have protected them from the very harsh conditions.
I feel as though everyone could do with one of these coats for their first time in Oslo!
The historical Museum.
There are other artefacts from different periods of cultural history, but I feel as though some of them have just been donated to the museum, and don’t actually relate to Norway’s history.
Randomly, there is an actual real Egyptian mummy located upstairs in the museum, which reminded me of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
An interesting exhibition in the museum.
Quirky statues everywhere.
An Oslo visit isn’t complete without discovering some of the quirky statues across the capital.
Each statue has its own unique story, which all combine to add some character to the city.
Two of my favourites are:
The Angry Boy (Sinnataggen).
We found this random statue in Vigeland Park, and it is said to be a representation of childhood frustration. My initial thoughts were ‘very random’, but it certainly offers something different in the park.
Gledessprederen statue.
We found this bundle of joy in ‘Rådhusplassen’, the square in front of the Oslo City Hall.
It is said to serve as a reminder to cherish joyful moments and share happiness with others. which is part of the Norwegian spirit of ‘koselig’.
The fun Gledessprederen statue in the city.
Angry Boy by 'Gustav Vigeland'.
How to travel around Oslo.
Oslo’s futuristic vibe translates across to its public transport, with efficient, clean options available throughout the city.
I found Oslo to be compact and walkable in a lot of areas, but here are the main transport options to travel further distances in the city:
Trams.
Oslo’s main cultural spots and landmarks are covered by the extensive 6 line tram network.
Oslo’s tram system, known as ‘Trikken’ offers visitors to the city some scenic routes across the city.
On trams, as well as the other public transport in Oslo, Ruter tickets can be purchased.
Single tickets cost NOK 40 (£2.85) for adults, and are valid for 1 hour, with 24-hour passes, or longer-term passes available for longer stays in the capital.
We purchased tickets via the RuterBillett app, but you can also use ticket machines, or at 7-Eleven kiosks.
You do have to validate your ticket before boarding, as there are often ticket inspections.
One of the many taxis in the city.
Taxis and Uber.
I noticed taxis around the city which can be flagged down, however, it is more common to use taxi apps such as Oslo Taxi. As with everything else in the city, the taxis are pricey.
Uber also operates in Oslo, but it is similar to taxis in terms of cost.
Walking and cycling.
The compactness of Oslo, along with its beautiful aesthetics and fresh Nordic air makes exercising a very pleasant experience.
With most landmarks in the city being close to each other, renting a bicycle, or taking a scenic walk is the best option in warmer months.
Walking and cycling through Oslo allowed us to experience the city at our own pace, and meant that we could explore off the beaten track.
Getting to Oslo from TORP Sandefjord Airport.
If, as we did, you find cheap flights to TORP Sandefjord Airport, you will discover that it is located a fair distance from Oslo.
However, it is very easy, although not cheap, to reach the city centre of Oslo.
Airport Coaches.
The airport has regular buses to Oslo, which take around 90 minutes each way, at the cost of NOK350 (£25) per person, per journey.
The buses are scheduled around the arrival flights, so don’t worry, there will always be a bus waiting within an hour of landing. We caught the bus from the flight prior to ours, so we didn’t have to wait at all.
The bus will take you right into the centre of the city and drop you off at Central Bus Station.
You can either pre-book online, or pay the driver as you embark on the coach.
There are frequent buses from TORP Sandefjord Airport to Oslo.
Discover Comfort in the Heart of Oslo: Comfort Hotel Karl Johan.
Karl Johans Gate is considered the central area of Oslo, and as the city’s main street, it runs from Oslo Central Station to the Royal Palace, cutting right through the heart of downtown. The street is one of the busiest and most vibrant areas in the city.
Here is the Oslo city centre hotel with free breakfast which we chose:
As I travelled to Oslo with a friend, we booked a cozy twin room for our stay in the city, and we found the beds to be very comfortable, in an adequate sized room.
One of the standout features of our stay was the FREE breakfast, featuring a generous selection of delicious options and unlimited coffee refills to fuel our adventures. It was the perfect start to our busy days in the city.
You are unlikely to find a cheap hotel in Oslo, however, staying centrally is worth its weight in gold, as using taxis is very expensive, and adds up considerably over a few days.
A five minute walk from the Central Bus Station meant we had a relaxed and trouble free introduction to the capital.
As we visited in September, the temperatures were warm enough to sit in the courtyard with a drink in the evening, which was a pleasant touch to our stay.
The affordable Oslo accommodation isn’t perfect, but the cleanliness of the facilities, and smiles on the staff’s faces made our stay enjoyable.
As this highly rated hotel is so central, it fills up quickly, so make sure you check your dates now.
We loved our stay at Comfort Hotel.
My travel tips for Oslo.
Here are the travel tips which will make your Oslo trip run smoother:
Purchase an Oslo Pass.
A very efficient way to save money and to streamline your time in the Norwegian capital is buying an Olso pass, which can be purchased online, or from the tourist information centre.
You can gain access to many of the Oslo tourist attractions, and use transport in and around the centre of the city.
You just need to show a validated Oslo Pass to the staff at the ticket office, transport option, or restaurant.
Prepare for a fast change of weather.
Oslo’s weather can shift unexpectedly, especially in the spring and autumn. We visited in September, and it went from sunny skies, to a sudden chilly breeze.
With Oslo being on the coast, it can get very cold, so I would advise bringing layers in most months.
Plan your travel options in advance.
Oslo is a walkable city with beautiful parks and waterfronts, however, certain attractions are a little more difficult to reach. An Uber cost us £40 each way to the Fram Museum from the Opera House, even though it was only a few miles.
With some better prior planning, we could have saved money by using the bus or tram network.
It was time vs money on our shorter visit, and we opted for more time at the attractions.
Bring your swimming gear.
Despite Oslo’s location on the coast, which can be very brisk, the city has a rich tradition of sauna culture, where relaxing in a sauna is a cherished ritual.
Many saunas, especially those located by the fjord encourage users to take a refreshing dip in the cool water afterward.
It is a must do in Oslo if you enjoy experiencing new cultures.
Although this is definitely a challenge for the majority of international visitors, it certainly adds a unique experience to your time in the Norwegian capital, so pack your swimming gear, just in case!
SA cruise ship parked up next to Akershus Fortress.
Frequently asked questions about Oslo.
How many days do you need in Oslo?
Three days is an ideal amount of time in Oslo, to explore the green spaces in the city, the port area, and the popular museums, without feeling rushed. Many tourist’s budgets would struggle beyond this also!
Is Oslo worth visiting in the winter?
Although the temperatures in the city can drop below freezing, with strong coastal winds, the snowy landscapes, fewer crowds, and abundance of indoor activities in the city make a worthwhile winter destination.
What is Oslo famous for?
It goes without saying that the Viking and Maritime heritage is a very important aspect of Oslo’s history, but in the modern world, the city is also known as a ‘sustainable’ and ‘green’ city, which should help to preserve its beauty for many generations to come.
Oslo also hosts the Nobel Peace Prize awards annually.
Is Oslo cashless?
Yes, Oslo is heading towards becoming cashless with physical currency being used less and less. I didn’t use any cash during my time in the Norwegian capital.
Can you see the northern lights in Oslo?
It's rare to see the Northern Lights in Oslo, however, it is possible during stronger solar activity.
Which way to go next?
Enjoy Scandinavia? Gothenburg is fun.
If you find that Oslo is your type of city, then just a few hours south lies Gothenburg.
I found the Swedish city to be another fun city, with unique vibes, and the local tradition of fika time made for an awesome activity.
You should head to the Haga District to enjoy the famous Swedish social activity, as there are many quirky cafes to experience it. You will also find this is the best area in the city for shopping, and a bit of history, if you head up to the Skansen Kronan Fortress.
Standing next to the centuries’ old fortress offers a fantastic view of Gothenburg!
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