Aker Brygge📍

Aker Brygge is well worth a visit when you are in the capital. The area was previously an old shipyard, but over the last few decades, it has been transformed into one of Oslo's most popular and vibrant districts. Located right in the city center with the Oslo Fjord as its nearest neighbor, it's packed with restaurants, shops, ice cream kiosks, and performance venues. Especially during the summer months, the waterfront bustles with life as people of all ages gather to enjoy the fantastic sea view along with a delicious meal, an ice cream, or a cold outdoor beer.

Tjuvholmen📍

Right at the edge of the fjord lies Tjuvholmen. Here you'll find a wonderful small beach for the little ones and great swimming piers for older children and adults. If you need a break from the sun, a visit to the Astrup Fearnley Museum is highly recommended – here you can experience world-class modern art.

Our hottest hotel tip on Tjuvholmen is, of course, the fashionable THE THIEF.

Latter📍

Looking for a fun experience out of the ordinary? Then a visit to Latter is a must! Here, both international acts and Norway's best comedians gather to offer everything from intimate club stand-up to major shows. It's a laid-back and perfect way to experience Oslo for the first time. Feel free to top off the experience with a visit to their own restaurant or have a drink at the bar. In the summer, the popular Summer Stand-up show is well worth checking out!

The Islands📍

During the summer months, locals head out to the islands in the Oslo Fjord to swim, barbecue, and even stay overnight. If you have a standard Ruter ticket for Zone 1, it also covers the boat trip to the islands! All boats depart from Rådhusbrygga (right next to Aker Brygge) and sail out to gems such as Hovedøya, Gressholmen, and Langøyene. If you wish to camp under the stars, overnight stays are only permitted on Langøyene for a maximum of two consecutive nights.

Our best tips for swimming on the islands

Operaen📍

The Opera House📍
Since its opening in 2008, the Opera House has been an iconic city landmark. The building, which consists mostly of glass and white marble, is considered a work of art in itself and has won several architectural awards. Inside, it houses three large stages and no fewer than 1,100 rooms. If you don't have the opportunity to catch a show during your stay, we highly recommend joining a guided tour to experience the impressive interior. If you're even shorter on time, you should at least take a walk up onto the white marble roof, which is completely free and offers a fantastic view of the Oslo Fjord and Bjørvika.

Deichman Bjørvika📍

Deichman Bjørvika📍
Right next to the Opera House you'll find Deichman Bjørvika, Oslo's stunning main library, which has been named the world's best public library. This is far from a traditional, quiet library; it's a vibrant cultural house spanning six floors, filled with light, spectacular architecture and cozy nooks. Whether you want to browse books, take a breather with a coffee, look at the ceiling's impressive art installation, or simply enjoy the fantastic views of the Oslo Fjord through the massive windows, Deichman is a perfect and free spot to unwind during your city break.

Karl Johans gate📍

Karl Johans gate📍
Oslo's famous main street, Karl Johans gate, can at times feel a bit hectic and crowded with tourists, but it's still a must-see. The street stretches all the way from Oslo Central Station up to The Royal Palace, serving as the city's vibrant main artery. If you walk the full avenue, you are essentially strolling through a living piece of Norwegian history. Along the way, you'll pass iconic landmarks such as the Parliament Building (Stortinget), the University buildings, and the National Theatre. In addition, the main street and its side streets offer endless shopping opportunities – ranging from high-street chains to exclusive department stores like Steen & Strøm – as well as cozy sidewalk cafes, restaurants, and lively crowds.

Want to experience Oslo where locals actually live, hang out, and eat? Then head a bit east:

Grünerløkka📍

Grünerløkka is the city's hippest neighborhood, bustling with life and offering an enormous selection of restaurants, bars, shopping, and green parks. Start your day with a coffee or pastry at one of Løkka's countless cafés, play table tennis in Sofienbergparken, or go treasure hunting in one of Markveien's many vintage and unique niche shops. The neighborhood has everything from casual street food spots to exciting culinary experiences, concert venues, and various markets. Our tips for vintage treasures in Oslo

Grønland📍

Here you will find the city's most colorful and multicultural neighborhood, located not far from Oslo S. Lose yourself in colorful vegetable markets filled with spices from the East, the local butcher, and authentic food from all corners of the world. Grønland is known for its relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. Here you'll find, among other places, Dattera til Hagen, an iconic two-story bar with a colorful and incredibly cozy backyard that's packed with people all summer long.

Tøyen📍

You'll find Tøyen right next to Grünerløkka, and this neighborhood has truly blossomed in recent years. Here you'll find the Botanical Garden and Natural History Museum, a lovely green oasis in the middle of the city. It features thousands of plant species, stately greenhouses, and unique exhibitions with everything from dinosaur skeletons to crystals. Tøyenparken is located right behind the Botanical Garden and is an incredibly popular, open park area. Right next door is the iconic Tøyenbadet, Oslo's largest public swimming facility.

Oslo Street Food📍
One of the city’s most popular food halls, located in the historic Torggata Bad. This place is perfect when everyone in your group is craving something different – you can choose from all corners of the world and still eat together! It’s a great spot to visit for both lunch and dinner, and if you stay even later, it transforms into a popular nightlife venue.

Café Sara📍is located at the bottom of Torggata, this place is a true, unpretentious Oslo institution. Known for its extensive beer selection, cozy backyard, and great atmosphere, as well as serving hot food late into the night. Who wouldn't want their famous lamb stew at 1:30 AM?

Syverkiosken📍Here you’ll find classic hot dogs (wienerpølser) served from Oslo’s last remaining wooden kiosk.