From fiction to city stroll
In the footsteps of Harry Hole in Oslo
With over 50 million books sold, Jo Nesbø is one of Norway’s most celebrated authors. At the heart of it all is Oslo – the city that sets the tone in the stories of Harry Hole. So we set out to experience it for ourselves, following in his footsteps through the city – from bars and backstreets to iconic locations from the books.
With Harry Hole, Jo Nesbø created one of the Nordic region’s most renowned crime characters – a uncompromising detective in the Oslo Police with a sharp intuition and a troubled relationship with both the rules and himself. The book series has sold millions of copies worldwide, putting Oslo on the map far beyond Norway’s borders. In 2015, Nesbø was also named “Oslo Ambassador of the Year” for the way he has showcased the Norwegian capital through his books.
The stories have also made their way to the screen. In 2017, The Snowman was adapted into a film starring Michael Fassbender as Harry Hole, and in 2026 the universe was brought back to life in a Netflix series with Tobias Santelmann in the lead role.
What both the books and the screen adaptations share is the way Oslo is used actively. The city is not just a backdrop, but part of the atmosphere – from well-known streets to more hidden corners.
Many of these places exist in real life. And they are exactly the ones we set out to experience.
First stop: where Harry lives
On Sofies gate in Bislett, you’ll find what is described in the books as Harry Hole’s home. His name is scribbled on the doorbell – a little rough, just like the character himself.
We ring the doorbell. It echoes inside. Nothing happens.
Not that surprising, really. Maybe he’s out on a case. Or – more likely – at Schrøder.
Restaurant Schrøder
Where everyone is looking for Harry
Just a few minutes away, you’ll find Restaurant Schrøder. A true Oslo institution – and Harry Hole’s regular spot throughout the book series. Here, they know exactly who he is.
“We have guests from all over the world who come in asking for Harry Hole. Tourists from Singapore, China, Japan, the US – name a country, and we’ve had visitors from there,” they tell us behind the bar.
And yes – his table does exist. You’ll find it just inside the door on the right, marked with a sign that leaves no doubt. Harry isn’t here today, but that doesn’t stop us. We order a beer in his spirit, glance up at the old paintings and let the atmosphere do the rest – surrounded by dark wood, crisp white tablecloths and a sense that time moves a little slower.
Just as it should be.
Palace Grill
The meeting spot at Solli plass
Next stop: Solli plass.
At Palace Grill Bar, Harry often meets Rakel – the woman he can never quite let go of. The atmosphere is a perfect mix of classic pub and lively city buzz, with dark wood, low lighting and a hum of conversation filling the room from the moment the doors open.
It’s the kind of place where it’s easy to linger. For a drink, a chat – or simply to take it all in.
If you want to take it a step further, head just across the hallway to Palace Grill – one of Oslo’s most acclaimed restaurants. Here, a fresh menu is served daily, based on seasonal ingredients and the chefs’ mood, and the experience is just as much about everything around the table as what’s on it. Just nearby, you’ll also find Sommerro – the hotel you’ll never want to check out of, with dining experiences worth the visit on their own.
And yes – at Palace Grill, you’ll need to book a table in advance. Not even Harry gets around that.
Teddy’s Softbar
A step back in time in Brugata
Next, we make our way to Brugata and Teddy’s Softbar A place that feels exactly as it always has. A jukebox, diner-style interiors and a bar that has seen it all.
Teddy’s is a small time capsule in the middle of the city – a place where regulars, curious visitors and Harry Hole fans all gather around the same bar. Many come here because the place features in The Snowman, but often end up staying longer than planned.
“The coffee is better now than it’s described in the book,” the owner laughs.
We choose to believe him.
This is a place with soul. A place where both locals and visitors still find their way – many years after The Snowman put it on the map.
Oslo – seen through Harry Hole
Following Harry Hole through Oslo is more than a literary walk – it’s a different way to experience the city, moving between familiar streets and places where stories seem to linger in the walls.
Along the way, you begin to notice the contrasts: the smaller, slightly hidden spots, the busier streets and the environments that have helped shape the stories. You might even discover a darker, more authentic side of Oslo.
If you want to follow the route yourself, you can explore the city at your own pace and trace his footsteps through Oslo’s streets.
However you choose to do it, Oslo becomes a little more intriguing when seen through Harry Hole’s eyes.
Complete the experience
Stay nearby
Home Hotel Folketeateret
Here’s where Harry would have stayed! Right in the heart of Oslo, Home Hotel Folketeateret is perfect for exploring the city on foot – with breakfast, fika and dinner included.
Explore our places to eat
Between stops, it’s worth setting aside time for a good meal. Oslo offers everything from classic favourites to new culinary experiences – places where you’ll often find yourself staying a little longer than planned.
OFFERS
Check out our campaigns
Members experience more
Become a member & experience your benefits
Get discounts on hotel stays. Be the first to receive offers and news. Use Spenn as full or partial payment for hotels stays or partner offers. And enjoy free coffee – whenever you like. Yes, these are just some of the many benefits our members receive – what are you waiting for?
