Obviously a weekend break to Oslo will not be enough to discover all the jewels of Norway´s capital. A history that goes back to year 1000 AD would take ages, so let me show you how to make the most out of your time here!
1. Maps:
2. Intro to the Kingdom of Norway and Oslo city
Norway is located on the Scandinavian Peninsula with a population of 5,258,317. And Oslo of 634 293.
It is the second-highest GDP per-capita among European countries (after Luxembourg), and the sixth-highest GDP (PPP) per-capita in the world. Where the oil industry contributes significantly.
According to UN, Oslo and by extension Norway, is the best place to live in the world. It has the highest Human Development Index and the lowest unemployment rate in the world.
The Nobel Prize Award Ceremonies take place every year in Oslo.
The culinary treasures of Norway’s unique traditional foods include smoked and cured fish such as salmon or cod, reindeer meat, hot dogs, breads, cheese and seafood.
I find people in Oslo very peaceful and friendly, always ready to smile back at you or help with anything you may need.
Local currency is Norwegian Krone (NOK).
Oslo Airport Express Train is the best way to get from the Airport to the city centre costs 180 NOK and can easily be purchased at the vending machines outside the terminal.
Follow my travel tips and book yourself a cheap break to Oslo. One of the most expensive countries in Europe can be affordable too with a good planning.
3. Now let's explore Oslo's city centre or, as they say, Kvadraturen
Eating out
Mathallen is home to several restaurants for both local or international tastes with the beautiful atmosphere of a street food but indoors.
Grünerløkka is known as the coolest neighborhood thanks to lively streets with cafés and shops all along the river. My advice is that you find yourself a nice terrace and enjoy the chill atmosphere and good music!
Akerselva river
“Through the centre of Oslo, from Maridalsvannet to the Oslo Fjord, runs the Akerselva river — a popular recreation area with a vibrant history. The river is eight kilometres long and passes waterfalls, swimming spots, fishing grounds, forested areas and wildlife.”
Gardens and water everywhere
Hausmania
“A place where artists can work undisturbed by commercial interests, and aims to to be a place that inspires artists and helps different fields cooperate. The premises include about 20 practice rooms for bands, and about 40 art studios for painters, designers, jewellery-makers and writers.
The house is also home to three galleries, four theatre groups, an MC club, a skateboard hall, a craft workshop, an internet café, a book café, a library, a cinema and rentable meeting rooms.”
After sunset we came back for music and drinks!
Historical Museum of Oslo
I especially enjoyed this Museum for the collections from the Middle Ages, gold and silver treasures, the permanent exhibition about the Viking Age and the items from Arctic expedition.
Festive Norwegian Folk dresses
To put on my christmas list! These costumes also follow regional traditions and reflect the customs and celebrations of the people, they still wear it during special occasions.
The Viking Ship Museum and surroundings
“The Viking Ship Museum shows discoveries from the Gokstad, Oseberg and Tune ships, plus small boats, sledges, a beautiful cart, tools, textiles and household utensils.”
The Museum plays a wraparound video experience that brings history to life.
Museum ticket: 100 NOK per person.
To get here take bus #30 towards Bygdøy from Rådhuset (City Hall) to Vikingskipshuset. Single ticket per person is 33 NOK.
From The Viking´s Museum to Vigeland Sculpture Park
Wander free and let the city surprise you…
“Sculpture park in the Frogner Park with more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland (1869–1943) in bronze, granite and cast iron, including The Angry Boy (Sinnataggen in Norwegian), The Monolith (Monolitten) and The Wheel of Life (Livshjulet).”
Akershus Fortress
“The building of Akershus Castle and Fortress was commenced in 1299 under king Håkon V. The medieval castle, which was completed in the 1300s, had a strategical location at the very end of the headland, and withstood a number of sieges throughout the ages. King Christian IV (1588–1648) had the castle modernised and converted into a Renaisssance castle and royal residence.”
Walking around the gardens of the Fortress is free and you will get spectacular views to the fjord and harbour.
Views to the Oslo Fjord
We were planning on booking the Islands Hopping tour in Oslo Fjord, but were strongly discouraged by the hostel receptionist.
Antiques and second-hand shopping in Oslo
The best souvenir from Oslo is a second-hand vintage garment or antiques to be found at any of Oslo´s fantastic vintage stores.
The next time in Norway we will be:
- Deepening our knowledge of its ancient history and modern culture;
- Visiting Bergen city, the highest fjords, Ringedalsvatnet and seeing the northern lights (aurora borealis).
- In Oslo: Kon-Tiki Museum, Munch Museum and Operahuset.
Dreams are quick but they run deep inside of us
