Tips for your Oslo trip

Go during springtime! Although I have only experienced Oslo during May and June and for that reason can`t compare it to other seasons myself, I heard from many people that this is the best time to visit. Due to the weather, the long sun hours, the blooming, and the happy spring vibes Oslo appears even more beautiful and there also is much to see and do. For example can you join the Norwegians people celebrating their national day. On 17th of May you will find streets full of big parades, people in traditional clothes, and just a huge festival in the whole city.

Take time to rest, enjoy, and go with the flow! Of course when doing a city trip you want to do some sightseeing and use the time to its fullest. But trust me, by taking it slow and just enjoy the city life you will get a whole new feeling for Oslo.

Join a free walking city tour! In order to get a first overview and some inside information and tips about the capital, it is great to use the opportunity of a free guided city tour provided by people that actually live in the city and experience this place daily.

Look out for free art museums! Oslo is the most artistic place I have ever seen. Everywhere you can find amazing architecture, art pieces, and small museums showing work from local artists.

Visit the Kunsthøgskolen! One of these pretty places is this university for art. Not only is the whole building super special, but you can find a collection of art work inside as well.

Don`t forget the Operahuset! The probably most famous building in Oslo is the Opera house located right on the water. With its unique rooftop it is on of the biggest art pieces itself and also an amazing view and meeting point you should not forget on your bucket list.

Walk through the Deichman Bjørvika! Right next to the Opera you find this library and due to again very special architecture it`s definitely a place to check out during your sightseeing tour.

Musical or food at the Kulturhuset! This is another cultural centrum with pretty design, cozy places to eat and the chance to see a musical, if your budget allows you to invest in tickets.

See the historical Rådhuset! Already from the outside the city hall located right on the water is breathtaking. On top of that it is opened almost every day for visitors to learn little about the history and experience the wonderful inside.

Take a walk around Akershus Festning! This fortress is located right in between the city hall and the opera house also close to the water. With its history, beautiful old architecture, gardens, and special view it is a must see for rainy and sunny days.

Admire Oslo Domkirke! This central cathedral has not only an unique construction and breathtaking ceiling but also a great acoustic for listening to an orgel concert.

Stroll along Karl Johans Gate! This street is the central road going through the whole inner city. With shops and restaurants it connects many of the main sights of Oslo. And it leads to the royal castle.

Join other tourists at the Kongelige Slot! The castle is one of the most famous sights of the capital. You can enjoy the building, watch the changing of the guards, and if the weather is nice, rest in the royal park.

Experience the greenness of Oslo! Besides amazing architecture and sights you can also find a big number of parks in Norway’s capital. Go visit Vigelandsanlegget, Botanisk hage, or Studenterlunden,  walk along the river side of Akerselva, or take a ferry to one of the islands in order to enjoy nature even in an huge city like Oslo.

Take advantage of the well expanded public transportation! Besides the ferries, Oslo’s transportation company offers tramps, undergrounds, and busses. All of it is combined into one ticket you can buy to save time and see also places that can not be reached by walking.

Explore Holmenkollen! This mountain is one of the farther outside places you need to go to by underground. It takes a while but the view is definitely worth it! And if you are interested in winter sport you can visit the ski museum, the ski jump ramp, and if you are lucky you can even spot some professional athletes during their training.

Be with the locals at Aker Brygge! Another area you definitely need to experience is the new harbor promenade full of restaurants and cafés. If you want to chill and enjoy the view on the harbor and fjord this is a must-go!

Try special meals within a party atmosphere at Oslo Street Food! You are looking for a cool place to enjoy some extraordinary but at least a little affordable food? Check out this hall filled with good vibes and dishes from all over the world.

The neighborhood Grünerløkka! This is another hip place to hang out and probably the area of Oslo that offers the most for young people. Full of little boutiques, second hand stores, museums and parks this is the place to be. It`s also the district where the popular Søndagsmarkedet i Ingensgate is located. Also you will find a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and bars such as W.B. Samson bakery or SYNG karaoke bar.