Oslo Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning Your Trip
What’s the best time of year to visit Oslo?
Summer (June-August) is popular for long days and good weather, but it’s also the most crowded and expensive. May and September offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Is a week in Oslo too long?
While you can see the main sights in a few days, a week allows for a more relaxed pace, exploring different neighborhoods, and taking day trips.
How many days should I spend in Oslo?
3-4 days is a good amount of time to hit the main museums and attractions.
What’s a good itinerary for a first-time visitor?
Focus on central Oslo: Vigeland Park, the Royal Palace, the Opera House, and Akershus Fortress. Then, venture out to the Bygdøy peninsula for the museums and Grünerløkka for a more local vibe.
Is it better to visit Oslo in May/June or September/October?
Both are great. May/June is green and lush, and you can experience Constitution Day on May 17th. September/October has lovely autumn colors.
Will I see the Northern Lights in Oslo?
No, Oslo is too far south. You need to travel to Northern Norway for a good chance of seeing them.
Is Oslo a good place for a family vacation?
Yes, there are many kid-friendly activities, like the museums on Bygdøy, the Vigeland Park, and the city’s outdoor spaces.
How expensive is Oslo?
Norway is generally considered expensive, especially for eating out and alcohol. However, you can save money by cooking your own meals and using public transportation.
What’s a realistic daily budget for a solo traveler?
This varies greatly, but a mid-range budget could be around 1,000-1,500 NOK per day, not including accommodation.
Is tipping required in Oslo?
No, tipping is not expected. You can round up the bill or leave a small amount for exceptional service, but it’s not a cultural requirement.
Do I need to book accommodation and restaurants in advance?
For popular times like summer, it’s a good idea to book accommodation well in advance. For popular or fine-dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Do I need to rent a car?
No, Oslo’s public transportation is excellent, and the city center is very walkable. A car is unnecessary unless you’re planning extensive travel outside the city.
Is it easy to get around without speaking Norwegian?
Yes, almost everyone speaks excellent English, so communication is not an issue.
What should I pack for a trip to Oslo?
Layers are key. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable. Pack a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and warm layers.
What’s the best way to get from Oslo Airport (OSL) to the city center?
The Flytoget (Airport Express Train) is the fastest option. The Vy regional train is a more affordable alternative and takes only a few minutes longer. Taxis are very expensive.
How early should I arrive at OSL for my flight?
For Schengen flights, 1.5-2 hours is generally enough. For non-Schengen flights, 2-3 hours is recommended. OSL is known for being an efficient airport.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Yes, Norway is largely a cashless society. You can use your credit card for almost everything, from public transport to small purchases.
Are there many electric cars in Oslo? Why?
Yes, they are very popular due to significant government subsidies, tax breaks, and other perks like free parking and access to bus lanes in the past.
What is a “red day” in Norway?
A “red day” (røddag) is a public holiday. On these days, many shops and businesses are closed.
Is there a good way to see a lot of Norway from Oslo?
Yes, you can take the scenic Bergensbanen train from Oslo to Bergen, often considered one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys.
Sightseeing and Activities
What are the top must-see attractions?
Vigeland Park, the Munch Museum, the Opera House, the National Museum, and Akershus Fortress.
What’s the best museum in Oslo?
The new Munch Museum and the National Museum are top contenders. For history, the Viking Ship Museum (currently closed for renovation until 2027) and the Norsk Folkemuseum on Bygdøy are highly recommended.
Is the Oslo Pass worth it?
It depends on your itinerary. If you plan to visit multiple museums and use public transport frequently in a short period, it can save you money. For longer stays or fewer attractions, individual tickets might be cheaper.
Is it free to walk around Akershus Fortress?
Yes, you can walk the grounds for free. The museums and specific buildings within the fortress have separate admission fees.
Is the new Munch Museum worth visiting?
Yes, it houses the world’s largest collection of Edvard Munch’s art and is a major new landmark in the city.
What is the deal with the Viking Ship Museum?
It is currently closed for major renovations and is not expected to reopen until 2027.
What is a good alternative to the Viking Ship Museum?
The Norsk Folkemuseum on Bygdøy is an open-air museum with historical buildings from across Norway, including a stave church.
What are some less-touristy things to do in Oslo?
Walk along the Akerselva River, visit Damstredet and Telthusbakken for charming wooden houses, explore the sculpture park in Ekebergparken, or visit the Emanuel Vigeland Mausoleum.
Where can I get a great view of the city?
The rooftop of the Opera House is free and offers a great view. You can also take the T-bane (metro) to Frognerseteren or visit the Holmenkollen ski jump.
What is the “Munch Scream” view?
The view from Ekeberg is the location where Edvard Munch painted “The Scream.”
Is the Holmenkollen Ski Jump worth a visit?
Yes, it offers a fantastic panoramic view of Oslo and the surrounding area. You can also visit the Ski Museum.
Can I go island hopping in the Oslofjord?
Yes, in the summer, ferries run to several islands, which are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring.
Where can I find a traditional Norwegian food experience?
Restaurants like Smalhans offer updated traditional Norwegian cuisine. For a more casual feel, Frognerseteren is a good option.
What is a “sauna and dip”?
This is a popular activity, where you alternate between a hot sauna and a cold dip in the fjord. Oslo Badstuforening is a well-known place for this.
Are there any good hiking trails near the city center?
Yes, you can take a tram to Frognerseteren and hike in the surrounding forests, or walk along the Akerselva River.
Where is a good place to walk around and see street art?
The neighborhoods of Grünerløkka and Tøyen are known for their vibrant street art scenes.
What’s a good day trip from Oslo?
Take the train to Bergen for a scenic ride, or a shorter trip to Drøbak, a charming coastal town.
Is it worth visiting the Oslo City Hall (Rådhuset)?
Yes, it’s free to enter and the main hall has impressive murals depicting Norwegian history and life.
Is Vigeland Park free?
Yes, the park is a public space and is free to enter and walk around at any time.
Are there any good jazz clubs?
Yes, places like Blå and the jazz club at Amerikalinjen are popular choices.
Food and Drink
What are some good budget-friendly restaurant options?
Asian and Indian restaurants are often more affordable. Street food at places like Mathallen is also a good option.
What’s a good place for a burger?
Munchies, Render, and Doug’s are frequently recommended for burgers.
Where can I get a good pizza?
Mamma Pizza and Cincin Cafe are popular for Italian-style pizza. Hells Kitchen is known for great pizza as well.
What’s a good place for fine dining?
Oslo has several Michelin-starred restaurants. Hot Shop and Kontrast are often mentioned as high-quality options.
What’s a good restaurant for a special occasion?
Solsiden, Hos Thea, and Statholdergaarden are often recommended for fine dining.
What is Mathallen?
Mathallen is a large indoor food hall with a wide variety of stalls, restaurants, and shops selling everything from local Norwegian produce to international cuisine.
What is the best coffee shop in Oslo?
Tim Wendelboe and Supreme Roastworks are frequently cited as having some of the best coffee in the world.
Where can I go for a drink with a view?
Grefsenkollen Restaurant offers a great view, as does the cafe at Frognerseteren.
What’s a good bar for craft beer?
Crow Bryggeri, Brewgata, and Henry & Sally are popular for craft beer lovers.
What’s a great cocktail bar?
Himkok is a world-renowned cocktail bar and distillery that is often recommended.
What are some good places for a quick and casual meal?
Hot dogs from a street vendor (pølse), kebabs, or a slice of pizza.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, most restaurants will have vegetarian options, and there are dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the city.
Where can I find good Italian food?
Grezzo, Roald & Umberto, and Pasta Fresca are recommended.
What’s a good place for Asian food?
Szechuan Chengdu for Chinese, and Koie Ramen or Hrimnir for ramen are popular choices.
Where can I try a “sveler”?
This fluffy pancake-like pastry is a classic Norwegian snack, often found at cafes.
Is it expensive to buy groceries?
Compared to eating out, groceries are much more affordable. Cooking your own meals is the best way to save money on food.
What is a good place for a quiet, cozy dinner?
Restaurants like Chez Colin or the wine bar Nektar are often mentioned for their intimate atmosphere.
Where can I get good seafood?
Vulkan Fisk at Mathallen and Hanami are popular choices for fresh seafood.
What are some good brunch spots?
Nedre Foss Gård is a recommended place for brunch.
Is there a good all-you-can-eat meat restaurant?
Brasilia, a Brazilian BBQ place, is known for its all-you-can-eat meat experience.
Public Transportation
How do I pay for public transport?
The easiest way is to use the Ruter app. You can also buy tickets at ticket machines and kiosks.
Can I use the Ruter app without a Norwegian phone number?
Yes, you can buy tickets in the Ruter app without a Norwegian phone number or account registration.
What is the difference between Flytoget and Vy trains to the airport?
Flytoget is the dedicated, slightly more expensive express train. The Vy regional train is a few minutes slower but significantly cheaper, especially with a Ruter period ticket and a supplementary zone ticket.
What is a “supplementary ticket” for the airport train?
If you have a Ruter period ticket (e.g., a 7-day pass), you only need to buy a cheaper supplementary ticket to cover the zones outside your pass’s range.
Are there night buses in Oslo?
Yes, but they are not very frequent, especially on weekdays. It’s important to check the schedule.
Are the buses, trams, and metro all part of the same system?
Yes, they are all operated by Ruter, and a single ticket is valid for all of them within the designated zones.
How do I get to the museums on Bygdøy?
You can take a bus or, during the summer, a ferry from Aker Brygge.
Is it easy to get around with a stroller or wheelchair?
Oslo’s public transport is generally very accessible, with low-floor trams and buses.
How much is a single ticket?
A single zone 1 ticket costs around 40-50 NOK. Prices can change, so always check the Ruter app.
What is the cheapest way to travel from the airport to the city center?
The Vy regional train with a supplementary ticket on top of a Ruter period pass is the most budget-friendly rail option. The airport bus is also a good alternative.
Culture and Etiquette
Are Norwegians generally friendly to tourists?
Yes, they are generally polite and helpful, but they can be a bit reserved.
What’s the best way to interact with locals?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, but respect their space. Norwegians appreciate direct and honest communication.
Is it common for people to dye their hair?
Hair coloring is common, but it’s often more natural-looking colors.
What is the “Taco Friday” tradition?
Taco Friday (Tacofredag) is a beloved tradition where many Norwegians eat tacos on Friday evenings.
What’s the Norwegian attitude towards personal space?
Norwegians value personal space. Don’t stand too close to people in lines or on public transport.
How do I greet a Norwegian?
A simple “hei” (hi) or “hallo” (hello) is sufficient. A handshake is common in a professional setting.
Is it okay to swim in the Oslofjord?
Yes, it’s a popular activity, especially in the summer. There are many public swimming spots and saunas.
What are some common Norwegian phrases I should know?
Hei (hi), takk (thanks), ha det (bye), and unnskyld (excuse me/sorry).
What’s the deal with “russebuss”?
This is the tradition where graduating high school students get together, buy a bus, and celebrate for several weeks in May. They are often elaborately decorated and can be seen all over the city.
What’s a good place to experience “cosy” or “hyggelig” vibes?
Exploring neighborhoods like Grünerløkka, visiting a local cafe, or having a beer at a pub with friends.
Miscellaneous
Where can I do laundry?
Some hostels and hotels have laundry facilities.
Is there a tourist information center?
Yes, VisitOSLO operates a tourist information center in the city.
What’s a good souvenir to buy?
A traditional Norwegian sweater (genser), or locally made crafts and foods from places like Mathallen.
Are there any specific safety concerns in Oslo?
Oslo is a very safe city. As with any major city, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas.
What’s a good place for shopping?
Karl Johans gate is the main shopping street. For more unique shops and boutiques, check out Grünerløkka and Bogstadveien.
Is it easy to find free WiFi?
Many cafes, hotels, and public places offer free WiFi.
What’s the weather like in winter?
Winters are cold and dark, with a lot of snow, but the snow can also make the city beautiful.
What’s the weather like in the summer?
Summers are generally mild and pleasant, but can be unpredictable with some rain.
What’s the best way to see the fjords from Oslo?
You can take a fjord cruise directly from the city center.
Can I use a debit card from my home country?
Most international debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work fine. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues.
Where can I see the traditional wooden houses?
Damstredet and Telthusbakken are historic streets with charming wooden houses.
Are the museums closed on certain days?
Many museums are closed on Mondays, so it’s always a good idea to check opening hours in advance.
What’s the deal with the Oslo Pass and museums?
The Oslo Pass gives free entry to many museums and attractions. It’s a single ticket for everything, but you need to do the math to see if it’s a good deal for your specific trip.
Is it possible to visit the Royal Palace?
The palace is open for guided tours during the summer months. You can also walk around the grounds for free.
Where is a good place to buy groceries?
Supermarkets like REMA 1000, Kiwi, and Meny are common throughout the city.
Are there any good public markets?
Mathallen is the most famous food hall, and there are often open-air markets and vintage markets on weekends.
Is it safe to drink tap water?
Yes, the tap water in Oslo is excellent and safe to drink.
Where can I find a good view of the Oslo Opera House?
Walking on the roof of the Opera House itself is a great experience. You can also get a good view from the Barcode area or across the water.
What’s the best neighborhood to stay in for a first-time visitor?
The city center (Sentrum) is very convenient. Grünerløkka is great for a more local, trendy vibe with lots of cafes and bars.
How do I find out about local events?
Check the VisitOSLO website or local event listings online. The city is often hosting various festivals, concerts, and markets, especially on weekends.