Oslo

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Oslo

Thanks to the country’s thriving oil industry, Oslo is one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. This is visible in its glass-covered skyscrapers, new infrastructure, and the plethora of trendy restaurants, bars, and boutiques. This beautiful city is situated right next to the Oslofjord, combining a modern attitude with a most beautiful natural environment.

The City Top 8

The City

With the mountains and the sea enhancing its innovative architecture, Oslo is a modern capital with a unique Nordic feeling. With plenty of state-of-the-art museums looking back at the city's ancient past and cultural heritage, a cityscape scattered with artworks, and green areas just a step away from the bustling centre, Oslo is one of the most appealing urban destinations in the North.

Top 8

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Oslo is a lively city full of museums, art, and entertainment that will never leave visitors bored. Right in the city centre, Viking history and old wooden neighbourhood are just beside hip districts with innovative architecture and contemporary art. Festivals and concerts are held frequently all around the city. Below is a list of the best things to do and see in Oslo, Norway:

Oslo Opera House

An iconic city landmark, the white-oblique building of the Opera House is located right next to the harbour and was constructed to emulate a floating glacier. Offering a rich program of opera and ballet, this emblematic building has oak interiors, street-level windows, and a shimmering marble rooftop: to climb it and enjoy great views over…

Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen

Aker Brygge is a lively and very popular area situated right by the fjord. It has seen an enormous development since the days when it used to be a shipyard, up until the 80s. Now visitors and locals come here for shopping, al fresco dining at one of the countless restaurants and bistros, or just…

The Vigeland Park

Located in Frogner Park, the Vigeland Park is home to more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite, and cast iron by Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland and is one of Norway's most popular tourist attractions. Every year, over one million visitors come here to discover this curious park and its sculptures, including the mighty Monolith, The…

Winter Cruise on the Oslofjord

Explore Oslo from the water and discover the city's scenic landscape on this sightseeing cruise along the Oslofjord. Glide past sights like the Oslo Opera House, the city's waterfront, and nearby natural enclaves. Learn stories behind the sights from the onboard commentary. During the winter months, the tour includes a stop at Bygdøy. Also, blankets…

Munch Museum

Edvard Munch has a unique position in the history of art as one of Expressionism’s early pioneers. The Munch Museum hosts a unique collection of more than 1,100 of Munch’s paintings. This makes the Munch Museum a unique starting point to explore the majority of Munch’s world-renowned works. Major works will always be on display…

Damstredet & Telthusbakken

A picturesque area in central Oslo with characteristic wooden houses from the 19th century. These two narrow and crooked streets lined with colourful houses are the perfect way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and experience some authentic old-Norway atmosphere. Around are the peaceful Egebergløkka, an allotment gardens area,…

Akershus Fortress

Akershus Fortress or Akershus Castle is a medieval castle built to protect and provide a royal residence for the city. It has stood witness to defining events of the country's history for centuries. The medieval fortress erected by King Håkon V in 1299 was turned into a Renaissance castle and royal residence by King Christian…

The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History

Norsk Folkemuseum is an extensive open-air museum at Bygdøy displaying more than 150 traditional buildings from all around Norway, including the impressive Gol Stave Church from around 1200. Craft demonstration, animal feeding and horse and carriage riding are among the many activities available daily through the summer. An indoor exhibition showcases traditional handicraft items, national…

Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset)

The double-towered building made of red bricks hosting Oslo Rådhus is a major symbol of the city. The interiors are decorated with scenes of Norwegian culture, history, and working life from the first half of the 20th century. The ceremony for the Nobel Peace Prize awarding is held here every year.

Museum of Cultural History

At the Museum of Cultural History visitors will find a large collection of items tracing back Norwegian History from the Ice Age to Christianity, with a focus on the Viking period and the Middle Ages. On the top floors there is an ethnographic museum with rotating exhibitions.

The Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden in Oslo is a nice retreat from the hustle of the city, with vast green and lush gardens. The garden was established in 1814 and is the oldest one in Norway; it boasts: an Arboretum with about 1,800 different plants including many exotic species, a scent garden and wooden sculptures by British…

Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower

A must see when visiting Oslo: the views of the city and the fjord from the ski jump are amazing. The ski museum traces the history of skiing through 4,000 years.

The Royal Palace

The neo-classical Royal Palace lies right at the end of Karl Johann Street and makes for a very impressive sight. The park, which surrounds the palace, is a popular picnic and sunbathing spot thanks to its grassy areas and majestic trees. Every day at 1.30 pm the guard changing ceremony takes place.

Tusenfryd Amusement Park

Tusenfryd is an amusement park about 45 minutes outside of Oslo and it's a favourite with children and families. Visit Tusenfryd and have a great time on one of the many attractions, including wooden roller coaster, carousels and long rides.

Bygdøy

Bygdøy is a beautiful peninsula not far from district Frogner. There are many popular museums here, but the peninsula is also a well-appreciated recreational area during the summer months, with beaches, hiking trails, and cycling paths.

DOGA

DogA, the Norwegian Centre for Design and Architecture, was established by Norsk Form and the Norwegian Design Council in 2005 as a meeting place for design, architecture and related disciplines. DogA is located in a converted power station by the Aker River, and hosts a number of exhibitions, conferences and seminars.

Lake Sognsvann

The Kon-Tiki Museum

Thor Heyerdahl earned international fame for his expeditions across the Pacific Ocean on board of the Kon-Tiki and Ra in 1947. At The Kon-Tiki Museum you can follow the intriguing events during his expeditions and their significance for world history. See the actual balsa and papyrus rafts, and learn more about Heyerdahl’s travels.

The National Museum - Architecture

The combination of classical and modernist architecture makes the building signed by two of the most important Scandinavian architects, Fehn and Grosch, an attraction in itself. Here you can find changing exhibitions related to different historical periods, with photos, models and drawings, as well as a gift shop and cafe.

Norwegian Maritime Museum

The Norwegian Maritime Museum is located on the Bygdøy peninsula. Visitors can enjoy fascinating environmental exhibitions about fishing, ship building, sailing, marine archaeology and an impressive collection of boat models and marine paintings.

Dining

Oslo is an exceptionally modern capital with a large variety of ethnic cuisines, gourmet restaurants, and classic eateries. The city is also one of the most expensive in the world. For that reason, prices are generally high. However, if you are traveling on a budget, cheaper alternatives serving good quality food can be found all around the city. Here are a few cheap eats in Oslo: - Syverkiosken: an iconic hot dog stand - Illegal Burger: homemade gourmet burgers served at two locations in Oslo - Freddy Fuego Burrito Bar: freshly-made burritos in the heart of Oslo - Mamma Pizza Osteria: tasty pizza and pasta for a great price - Munchies: popular hamburger restaurant with several locations around Oslo - Haralds Vaffel: waffle shop - Tuk Tuk Thai: Thai restaurant Below you will find some of the best places to eat in Oslo, Norway:

Brasserie Sanguine

Brasserie Sanguine sits in the middle of the iconic Opera House's foyer. You can visit during day time, have a coffee in the sun or combine a grand dinner with an opera show. Serving Norwegian classics and some international dishes, Sanguine's menu changes every month.

Syverkiosken

One of the cheapest eats in Oslo, Syver hot dog kiosk has come to stand as a landmark of the city. The boiled wieners are prepared following a family recipe, wrapped in a sort of thick potato pancake and served with a wide range of traditional toppings.

The Ekeberg Restaurant

The first thing that strikes you as you arrive at Ekeberg restaurant is the magnificent view over the Oslo fjord, the islands and the city. This restaurant was first built in 1916, but was modified into it is current appearance in 1929, following a design competition. Ekeberg consists of several restaurants, a bar/lounge, an outside…

Grådi

A laid-back eatery serving simple but tasty Norwegian fusion food, good beers and cocktails at very fair prices. Try the traditional Norwegian lompe: potato pancakes topped with meat, vegetables or fish.

Theatercaféen

A classic Viennese-style venue located inside the elegant Continental Hotel and just in front of the National Theatre, Theatercaféen is one of the most popular eatery in Oslo. The focus in on national cuisine, with Norwegian classics from both sea and land prepared with local, fresh ingredients.

Munchies Grünerløkka

A cheap option offering some of the best burgers and fries in Oslo. They have three branches around the city and also serve good craft beer.

Alex Sushi

Modern interiors, top-quality ingredients and innovative cuisine have made Alex Sushi one of the most popular sushi restaurants in town. The food is prepared just in front of the customers' eyes and the menu offers a broad choice of different combinations of tastes and cooking styles. The restaurant also has a take-away counter

Louise Restaurant & Bar

Louise Restaurant & Bar is situated on the premises occupied by Aker boat workshop in the 1920s. Many unique artefacts from Oslo’s naval history were utilised for the interiors' decoration. The restaurant overlooks the beautiful Oslo fjord and the Akershus Fortress across the water and offers prime-quality seafood based on seasonal Norwegian ingredients. In the…

The Great India

The Great India is located in downtown Oslo, right in front of the National Gallery. Colourful decorations and fabrics transport you right into the glory of India, while the food boasts a huge variety of flavours from traditional Northern India cuisine.

Delicatessen

A tapas restaurant with a casual atmosphere serving also salads and sandwiches. Try their jamon and manchego or the saffron and chorizo croquettes.

Trattoria Popolare

Trattoria Popolare is an Italian restaurant located in an old brewery that serves lunch and dinner in an informal environment. The pasta is home-made, the ingredients seasonal and fresh and the Italian wines selection is the widest in Norway.

Palace Grill

An intimate top class restaurant specialised in seafood. With a unique atmosphere, Palace Grill serves a ten-course menu changing everyday. During the summer, there is a nice beer garden where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.

Hanami

From its excellent location at beautiful Tjuvholmen, Hanami serves Japanese fusion food in an enchanting environment inspired by nature. The restaurant is specialized in Robata charcoal grill and can boast a sushi bar and delicious home-made desserts.

Stortorvets Gjæstgiveri

In the town centre lies one of Oslo’s oldest building where people have gathered since the early 1700’s. Here you can eat, drink and enjoy the historic surroundings, while sampling some Norwegian classics.

Bølgen & Moi Briskeby

Bølgen & Moi is located in an old power station and is definitely worth a visit. Being a well-known restaurant brand in Norway, the establishment can be best described as a modern brasserie. The menu includes classic meals, oven-baked pizza and a popular breakfast buffet.

Yaya's Restaurant Vika

An authentic Thai environment where to taste the variety of meals made from scratch at a very reasonable price, have a drink at the beach bar and enjoy the happy reggae tones.

Cafes

You can easily find a cafe in Oslo to rest your legs, but the city's teeming urban scene and proximity to sublime landscapes offer much more. Espresso bars, cosy bakeries, and tasty snacks can be found in every corner of the city's districts, serving top-notch products in characteristic environments. Here are some of the best cafes in Oslo, Norway:

Tim Wendelboe

Café Sør

Café Sør, literally translated as "cafe south", operates as a cafe during day time, serving coffee and offering an extensive breakfast and lunch menu with many vegetarian options. At night, it turns into more of a club, with DJs present every night.

Pascal Konditori-Brasserie

Pascal Dupuy is a famous French cafe and patisserie with cakes, pastries and petit fours of the highest international quality. They also serves simple French dishes for lunch.

Café Skansen

Café Skansen is ideally located right by Christiania Plaza, with an amazing view over Rådhusplassen, drenched in sunlight until late in the evening during the summer. The menu mostly contains classics, including shrimp and mussels if you are in the mood for a proper meal.

Asylet

Asylet is located in the oldest wooden house in Oslo and welcomes customers with a great atmosphere: there is an open fireplace to heat up frozen limbs in winter and a relaxed backyard to soak up the sun in summer. They serve traditional open-faced sandwiches and simple Norwegian lunch dishes. Try their homemade cakes.

Hjemme Hos Svigers

Cafe Hjemme Hos Svigers is located on the beautiful Bygdøy peninsula, in an old postal office. This family-run restaurant and cafe has cosy interiors decorated with antiques and a menu focused on gluten- and lactose-free dishes, including homemade burgers, salads and soups.

Åpent Bakeri

A cosy little bakery located in the city centre of Oslo serving prime-quality pastries, home-baked with fresh ingredients and following traditional recipes. Beside pastries and cakes, you will also have an excellent choice of salads and hot drinks to be enjoyed in the outside patio.

Fuglen

Drop by Fuglen to have an aromatic coffee, or choose from well-selected tea flavors from Asia. During the night, the cafe turns into a cocktail bar and you get the chance to try some of the best cocktails in the city while mingling. Fuglen is also a vintage design shop and everything from furniture to…

Stockfleths

Stockfleths is a well-regarded cafe chain in Oslo, known for its high quality espresso drinks and loose teas. This modern coffee shop is a favourite spot for many locals and the biggest of the seven locations across the city. They also serve baked good, cakes and sandwiches

Cafe Sara

Centrally located, Cafe Sara has more of a pub-like atmosphere with cosy wooden interiors and a a backyard garden. They have reasonable prices and serves food until late at night. The menu include wraps, pizza, tex-mex, grilled meat, desserts and snacks.

Café Laundromat

Café Laundromat is based on an unusual concept: not only can you have a cup of coffee or a meal, but you can even do your laundry at the same time. They serve a variety of meals like burgers, salads and pizzas. Grab a book from their big collection, have a snack and sip some…

Javelin Coffee & Tea

A cosy neighbourhood cafe, Javelin serves delicious homemade cakes, sandwiches, soups and plenty of hot drinks in a relaxed and quiet atmosphere.

Espresso House

Espresso House is a well-established cafe brand in Scandinavia. Oslo is not an exception, and invites you to a place where quality coffee and quaint ambience go hand in hand. Sit back and sip on the delicious coffee and enjoy an irresistible pastry.

Bars & Nightlife

Oslo has plenty of places to go for a night out, boasting top-quality wine bars, famous clubs, and innovative night spots. From fancy cocktail bars to more chill venues, the central area has a lot to offer. If you're looking for a more relaxed evening instead, you should head to Grünerløkka for a beer and a laid-back crowd. Here are the best bars and nightclubs for a fun night out in Oslo, Norway:

Torggata Botaniske

A lush cocktail bar with climbing plants covering the ceiling and its own greenhouse. The interiors are simple and classy while the superb cocktails are made with fresh ingredients grown in the greenhouse and quality spirits. The cocktail list changes according to the season.

Territoriet

A wine bar with an intimate atmosphere serving almost 400 different wines, most of which available by the glass. They have wines for every taste and price range that can be enjoyed with some cheese and finger-food. All the music at Territoriet is played on vinyl and can been also chosen by customers.

Blå

Blå is an independent club hosting numerous concerts that vary form hip-hop and r&b to jazz and electronic music. They have both Norwegian and international artist performing early in the evenings and then, as time progresses, Blå turns into a vibrant nightclub. They have a great outdoor terrace just on the banks of Akerselva river.

Aku-Aku

Aku-Aku is a Tiki Bar with decorations and atmosphere inspired by the Polynesian culture. They have a great selection of cocktails and rum and their own tap beer. Drinks can be a little expensive, but not above average prices in Oslo.

Bar Boca

The smallest bar in Oslo, Bar Boca is a cosy venue with 1950s decor serving some of the best cocktails in town. The selection is huge and the bartenders are always ready to make off-the-list cocktails on spot. They also serves craft beer and wine

The Villa

An underground club with electronic music in two different dance floors. Beside Friday and Saturday nights there are occasionally Thursday gigs. The age limit to enter is 23.

Champagneria

Champagneria offers many different types of sparkly wines, and it is a good place to start an evening out. Pick a glass of wine from the extensive wine list, offering both affordable and exclusive drinks, with or without bubbles. They also have a much appreciated roof terrace and serve tasty tapas.

Sosialen

An informal setting with good food, drinks and many events going on year-round. The restaurant serves mainly Norwegian dishes and pub food. They have a popular backyard court, heated in winter and with DJs playing at night in summer. At evening, there are concerts and other entertainments on the stage.

Dattera til Hagen

Dattera Til Hagen is a colourful bar and cafe on two floors with a popular backyard beer garden. The cafe serves tapas, salads, hamburgers and pastas. They also host regular events like concerts, improve theatre and stand-ups. On the weekends there are DJs on both floors.

The Dubliner Folk Pub

A lively Irish Pub with a large selection of beers and pub fares. There are Irish dance classes on Monday nights and Irish music sessions on Tuesdays. Wednesday and Saturday nights usually entail live music, where you can enjoy a true Irish experience.

Justisen

Justisen gets its charm partly from the culturally protected building from the 19th century in which it is housed. A cosy bar during the afternoon, it turns into more of a nightclub late in the evening. There are several bars with different drinks selections and a backyard that is quite popular all year round.

Magic Ice Bar

Friday's American Bar

A well-established brand serving American food and good cocktails in an informal environment. Next to the restaurant in Aker Brygge you can find the Friday's American Bar, offering a huge selection of drinks and music.

Shopping

You will find everything in Oslo: plenty of shopping malls and department stores as well as independent boutiques and characteristic shopping streets with small shops and retailers. Antique shops, flea markets and local handicraft shops are also very popular around the city.