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Holidays in Oslo

Relaxed by day and lively by night, Oslo holidays are full of art, culture and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re after a romantic weekend or a stunning starting point for a longer adventure, Norway’s capital has all you need for an unforgettable city break.

Resting on the edge of the Oslofjord, this compact city is ideal for embracing the Norwegian love of the great outdoors. You can cycle around the sights and eat waffles by the waterfront Opera House in summer, tackle the toboggan run from Frognerseteren in winter, and enjoy saunas and swimming all year round.

For something more cultural, wander among sculptures and flowers in Vigeland Park, be inspired at the Munch Museum and immerse yourself in art at The National Museum.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, take your pick of traditional home-cooked specialties or treat yourself to Michelin-starred cuisine. Eat where Henrick Ibsen and Edvard Munch dined at the Grand Café or tuck into international fare at Oslo Street Food.

If you’re travelling with kids, the city’s small size and welcoming hotels and attractions make holidays to Oslo easy. The National Museum is free for under 18s and has the Fairy Tale Room, an app with children’s stories, and a family-friendly café. You’re rarely far from a pizzeria, either.

What to do in Oslo

With a beautiful fjord-side setting and bundles of culture, history and entertainment at every turn, city breaks to Oslo are a treat. Spend summer days browsing sculptures in green parks, eating sweet buns in cafés and exploring the coastline by kayak. If the skies open up, duck into one of the capital’s many museums and galleries.

Food and drink

From food stalls to high-end restaurants, Oslo’s culinary scene is a foodie’s paradise.

Waffles with brown cheese (brunost) are a local favourite, as is a pølse med lompe (a sausage in a potato flatbread) from a ‘Syverkiosken’ hotdog vendor. Something sweet comes by way of boller buns, made with cinnamon, chocolate or raisins.

Elsewhere, fish, seafood and game meat – such as reindeer – are on the traditional Norwegian menu. For a special occasion, consider the three-Michelin-starred Maaemo, or book a table at Smalhans for a more affordable alternative.

Vigeland Park

This leafy green park has more than 200 sculptures by the Norwegian artist, Gustav Vigeland. Take a picnic and enjoy a sunny morning exploring the many bronze and granite figures, ranging from the funny – Man Attacked by Babies – to the poignant (The Wheel of Life).

Later, head up the hill to Ekeberg Park for panoramic city views and more sculptures by international artists such as Rodin, Dali and Hirst. If you’ve still got an appetite for sculpture, make for Inger Munch’s Pier to see The Mother by Tracey Emin.

Museums and galleries

Oslo is Norway’s centre of culture. Here, you can see The Scream up close at the Munch Museum, enjoy views from the roof of the Opera House and learn about Norwegian life and history at the Norwegian Folk Museum.

The enormous National Museum should also be on your hitlist. Its collection has more works by Edvard Munch (including another version of The Scream), plus a huge historic and contemporary art collection.

Later, relax at the six-floor Deichman Library, see dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum and take in more contemporary art at the Astrup Fearnley Museum.

The Oslofjord

Join locals hanging out by the water of the Oslofjord, where you’ll find a small, swim-friendly beach by the Opera House. Nearby, the floating saunas offer sweaty relaxation, chilly swimming and tours of the fjord all in one.

You can also make the most of the water by kayak, paddleboard or boat. Take a budget commuter route or go for a tour on the electric catamaran ‘Legacy of the Fjords’. You’ll see the waterfront highlights before heading out to nearby islands.

Where to stay in Oslo

For family holidays

Staying in central Oslo is a good idea if you’ve got kids in tow, as you’ll find lots of attractions and dining spots within walking distance. That said, it’s easy to get around on public transport too, with children under six going free.

The Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel is central and has family rooms, while Thon Hotel Slottsparken has breakfast included and in-room kitchenettes. Both are close to parks and a short walk from the Royal Palace.

For couples’ holidays

Romantic vibes aren’t difficult to find on an Oslo holiday, with many hotels, restaurants and attractions made for couples. Sommerro Hotel is one. Its heated rooftop pool with stunning city views, high-end spa and choice of six restaurants are ideal for relaxing together whatever the weather.

Elsewhere, The Thief is a hotel with a spa and rooftop bar in summer. It has a getaway vibe overlooking the Oslofjord, yet is still close to the city’s attractions. For a honeymoon-style retreat, consider The Grand Hotel, a stylish historic hotel with a spa and afternoon tea.

For nightlife

Staying in Grünerløkka will be convenient for nightlife, with trendy bars, cafés and restaurants on your doorstep. Oslo Street Food, which hosts DJs on the weekend, is within walking distance too. Anker Hotel is a decent, budget-friendly choice here.

The Bjørvika district, home to Maaemo, is another great spot for nightlife. The Clarion Hotel is here, while Citybox, just outside, is a budget option within a short walk of both the waterside and the city centre bars around Karl Johans gate.

For a city break

It’s best to stay central on a city break in Oslo. Go for accommodation near Karl Johans gate to be close to shops, restaurants and the main attractions. From here, you can walk or cycle to the waterfront and the Royal Palace.

P-Hotels Oslo is a budget choice on this main street, while the equally affordable Citybox is nearby. For high-end, stay at The Grand Hotel, where you can unwind in the spa and sip cocktails on the rooftop bar at the end of a busy day.

When to go to Oslo

While Norway is a year-round destination, holidays to Oslo are best kept to the balmy summer months. You’re more likely to find direct flights and cheaper accommodation, and enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions. Music enthusiasts should visit in August for the Oslo Jazz Festival and the Øya Festival.

When is the cheapest time to visit Oslo?

Summer (from June to the end of August) is the best time for a budget break in Oslo, with hotels often offering cheap deals over weekends to attract more visitors. This also means it’s the busiest time, so be sure to book ahead and consider searching in the shoulder seasons when it will be quieter.

When should I go for the best weather?

Summer has the best weather by far, with temperatures averaging around 17C. Visit in July for highs of 22C and fewer rainy days than in August. June has the longest days, with up to 19 hours of daylight on average.

People would like to know

FAQs

Do I need to have a visa to go to Oslo?

No. You can visit Oslo for up to 90 days with a valid UK passport. Read the latest FCDO advice for passport validity requirements.

How do I get to Oslo?

There are cheap direct flights available to Oslo from London. You can also fly direct from Edinburgh and Manchester, and via Amsterdam from Birmingham. Travelling overland or by sea is doable with several routes available via train and ferry. You could, for example, take the train to Kiel in Germany and then the Color Line ferry to Oslo.

How many days do you need in Oslo?

A long weekend is a good amount of time to explore museums, visit parks and dine in some of the best restaurants in Oslo. Stay longer to explore the surrounding area.

Are there any local customs I need to be aware of?

Alcohol rules are relatively strict throughout Norway. Drinks containing more than 4.7% alcohol are only sold in Vinmonopolets (state-run alcohol shops), and you can only purchase booze in supermarkets at certain times.