Oslo was my first trip to Scandinavia, and after just a 100-minute flight from London, I found myself wondering why I hadn’t made the effort to discover Oslo sooner. I had heard so many great things about the city, and it certainly lived up to my high expectations—I wasn’t disappointed!
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Arrival in Oslo
As I stepped off the plane in Oslo, my first impression was how incredibly clean and safe the city felt. Navigating the airport was a breeze, instantly putting me at ease. I quickly purchased a FlyToGet ticket for the airport train to the city centre using a user-friendly mobile app, making the whole process seamless.
The airport is well-signposted in both English and Norwegian, so I never felt lost. Having traveled through various public transport systems around the world, I was genuinely impressed by how easy it was to get around Oslo. I loved seeing digital signage on each platform, clearly indicating the purpose of each train carriage.
For anyone planning to explore, I highly recommend downloading the Ruter app. It’s a fantastic resource for travel information and allows you to buy tickets ahead of time, ensuring a smooth journey as you dive into the beauty of this amazing city!
Where to Stay?
When it comes to accommodation in Oslo, you’ll find plenty of options, but we opted for the Thon Hotel Opera, and it didn’t disappoint! Conveniently located right next to the Central Main Line Station, this hotel made it super easy to explore the city.
Top Right: View of Jernbanetorget, Bottom Left: Breakfast Room at the Thon Hotel Opera, Bottom Right: Thon Hotel Opera
The place was spotless, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and accommodating. I was particularly impressed when we had to leave early for an onward trip; the hotel graciously prepared a packed breakfast for us to take along—what a thoughtful touch!
While our room was a bit on the smaller side, which is common for city hotels, it was cozy and comfortable, with everything we needed for a great stay. Plus, the minibar was fully stocked with drinks, alcohol, and snacks—perfect for those late-night cravings! If you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay in Oslo, I highly recommend the Thon Hotel Opera.
What to see in Oslo
After dropping off our bags, we headed straight back into the city to start exploring. Despite the October chill, the weather was surprisingly pleasant and sunny, making our adventure all the more enjoyable.
Oslo is a fantastic city to explore on foot, with plenty of sights to see along the way. However, I also highly recommend joining a few tours to dive deeper into Norwegian history and culture. They offer unique insights that you won’t want to miss!
Oslo City Tour
I highly recommend the Oslo Panoramic City Tour, which you can easily book through Viator. This 2.5-hour coach sightseeing tour is narrated by a knowledgeable guide and takes you to some of the city’s most notable attractions, including the Akershus Fortress, Oslo Cathedral, the Royal Palace, the Oslo Opera House, and the Nobel Peace Center.
Along the way, we made two fantastic stops: Vigeland Sculpture Park and the iconic Holmenkollen Ski Jump. Our guide was not only informative but also had a great sense of humour, sharing fascinating stories about Norwegian and Scandinavian history, particularly surrounding the royal families. It was an engaging way to get to know Oslo!
Oslo Harbour
A stroll along the promenade in Oslo is a must-do, stretching 6 miles from the west to the east along the stunning waterfront. Until recently, this area was off-limits to the public due to its status as an active dockyard. However, recent redevelopment has transformed it into a vibrant space for exercise, dining, or simply relaxing in the sun while enjoying the view from one of the many orange benches lining the water’s edge.
During this redevelopment, the Festning Tunnel was constructed beneath the city, which has greatly reduced traffic in the city center. The traffic I did encounter was surprisingly quiet, thanks to the predominance of electric vehicles. I highly recommend embarking on a self-guided walking tour of the harbor area. One of my favorite trails, available on AllTrails, is the Harbour Promenade and Akershus Fortress route, offering a perfect mix of scenic views and historical sights.
Oslo Opera House
The iconic Oslo Opera House, completed in 2008, is a stunning centerpiece along the waterfront that simply can’t be missed. Its striking design, which aims to replicate the appearance of floating glaciers, is constructed from beautiful Italian marble, giving it a unique and contemporary aesthetic that stands out against the backdrop of the fjord.
What makes the Opera House truly special is that it invites visitors to climb onto its roof, a feature that sets it apart from most buildings where such activities are discouraged. As you make your way up the sloping white surfaces, you’re rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the city and the surrounding fjords. It’s a fantastic place to take photos or simply soak in the beauty of Oslo from above.
When you’re on the roof, take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of the space; it’s a wonderful spot to relax, people-watch, and appreciate the blend of nature and architecture. The Opera House also hosts various performances throughout the year, so if you have the opportunity, I highly recommend catching a show. Experiencing a performance in such a breathtaking venue adds another layer to your visit. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable experience, the Oslo Opera House is a must-see during your trip to Oslo.
Fjord Cruise
No visit to Norway is truly complete without embarking on a fjord cruise, and Oslo offers some fantastic options right from the harbour front. With a range of boat trips available, you can choose a cruise that fits your schedule and interests, whether you’re looking for a quick tour or a longer adventure.
As you set sail on the Oslo Fjord, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The fjord is dotted with picturesque islands and charming coastal villages, each with its own unique character. Keep your camera ready, as the dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and tranquil waters provide countless photo opportunities.
Many tours offer guided commentary, giving you insights into the history and ecology of the area, including the fascinating stories behind some of the islands. You might even spot local wildlife, such as seabirds or seals, making the experience even more memorable.
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to soak in the natural beauty of Norway, a fjord cruise is the perfect choice. Whether you enjoy sipping coffee on the deck or simply soaking up the stunning scenery, it’s an unforgettable way to experience Oslo’s stunning maritime landscape.
Top Tips
Make Restaurant Reservations
Oslo can get quite bustling, especially on weekends, so if you’re looking for a delicious meal amidst the hustle and bustle, I highly recommend Døgnvill Burger in Bjørvika. Known for its mouthwatering burgers and friendly staff, it’s a local favorite.
For more dining options, check out Mathallen Oslo, a vibrant food hall with diverse vendors, or Lofoten Fiskerestaurant, which specializes in fresh seafood with stunning waterfront views. If you’re in the mood for something upscale, Fjord Restaurant offers fine dining focused on seasonal ingredients. No matter where you choose to eat, Oslo’s culinary scene has something to satisfy every palate!
Download apps
When visiting Oslo, downloading a few key apps can truly enhance your experience and make navigating the city a breeze. Here are some must-have apps that will help you enjoy your stay to the fullest:
- Ruter
The Ruter app is essential for planning and purchasing your public transport tickets. Whether you’re hopping on a tram, bus, or ferry, this user-friendly app allows you to check schedules, routes, and buy tickets with ease. It’s a lifesaver for getting around the city efficiently.
- Oslo Pass Official City Guide
If you’re staying in Oslo for a few days and want to explore the sights, the Oslo Pass is an excellent investment. This app provides access to discounts on various attractions, museums, and public transport. It’s a fantastic way to save money while maximizing your sightseeing experience.
- FlyToGet
For those arriving in Oslo, the FlyToGet app is a must for purchasing your airport train tickets. It allows you to buy tickets quickly and conveniently, and you can easily download your ticket to your mobile wallet for hassle-free access.
A Lasting Impression
My lasting impressions of Oslo are overwhelmingly positive. From the moment I arrived, I felt safe and confident exploring the city. One of the aspects that truly stood out to me was the ease of communication; I didn’t encounter any language barrier during my stay. Most locals speak excellent English, which I later learned is thanks to the education system that teaches English from an early age. This made it incredibly easy to ask for directions, recommend dining spots, and engage in conversations with friendly locals.
Beyond the welcoming atmosphere, I was captivated by Oslo’s stunning blend of modern architecture and natural beauty. The city’s cleanliness, vibrant culture, and array of activities left a lasting impression on me. Whether I was wandering along the picturesque waterfront, exploring historical sites, or indulging in the local cuisine, I felt embraced by the spirit of Oslo. Overall, my time in this beautiful city has not only deepened my appreciation for Norway but has also left me eager to return and discover even more!
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Oslo is a fantastic city, in a beautiful country. If you are looking for a getaway, I would definitely recommend Oslo especially as it’s easier and quicker to travel to from London Airports. In fact, i would go as far as to say that it is faster to travel to Oslo by plane, than it is by car from London to Scotland. Oslo has a great vibe with lovely restaurants and bars which makes for a lovely weekend away.
Read about my next trip to Scandinavia, this time I visited Copenhagen.
This all sounds great (especially all the sculptures you saw on the Oslo Panaramic City Tour.) It’s pretty amazing that everyone is so good at english aaaand that is is such a fun, safe and gorgeous city to explore.
This was so helpful! I had never considered a city break in Oslo before but will now be adding it to my list. Beautiful city and I would definitely love to visit the opera house
The Fjord Cruise looks incredible!
Wow I would love to see the opera house! What stunning architecture! I have heard from a few people that they thought Oslo felt really safe, glad to hear you felt similar!
Such a beautiful destination. I’m glad to hear that you had a safe and comfortable time there. I’m always interested in destinations with no language barrier, so I’m adding Oslo to the list!
I really loved the clock tower on the dock, it looks very unique than anything I have seen and the Fjord cruise very interesting as well.