A beginner's guide to Oslo

Visiting Oslo for the first time? There’s no better moment. Norway's capital is known for its stunning architecture, a vibrant art scene, and direct access to breathtaking nature. After a transformative two-decade harborfront redevelopment, Oslo has emerged as a cultural capital worth exploring.

World-class museums showcasing art, maritime history, and both ancient and modern narratives sit alongside remarkable architecture, expansive sculpture parks, and captivating islands—all free to enjoy. Coupled with a lively cultural calendar and a diverse food scene, Oslo offers an unforgettable city break experience.

Here’s how to maximize your first visit to Oslo.

What’s the best time to visit Oslo?

June, July, and August are the busiest months for both local and international visitors. The days are long, with pleasant temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F), though you might experience stretches exceeding 30°C (86°F). Expect the harbor baths and city beaches to be filled with locals soaking up the sun, and arrive early at museums to dodge the peak-season crowds. Summer also brings major festivals, including OverOslo and Pride in June, Øya Festival in July, and Byin August. Room rates can skyrocket during festival dates, so book early.

While slightly cooler, May and September still offer good weather and are perfect for those seeking lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists. However, May 17 is an exception as the city dons national costumes to celebrate Constitution Day with parades, marching bands, and lots of ice cream. It’s a particularly festive time to be in Oslo, but expect many attractions and shops to close, making dinner reservations essential.

As autumn fades into winter, the days become shorter and colder, with temperatures often dropping to between -5 and 0°C (23 to 32°F) in January and February. Ice-skating rinks pop up in the city center, and you can hit the slopes at Skimore Oslo, accessible via the T-Bane. Prefer to watch? March hosts the Holmenkollen Ski Festival, featuring top ski jumpers, biathletes, and cross-country skiers.

How long should I stay in Oslo?

With just two days, you can check off some major highlights. Make sure to visit the National Museum for a quick tour of Norway’s artistic gems; the Munch Museum to learn about the creator of The Scream; the Royal Palace to explore the residence of the Norwegian royals; and Vigelandsparken to admire Gustav Vigeland’s captivating sculptures. Don’t forget to take a walk atop the Oslo Opera House. In between cultural stops, carve out some time for vintage shopping in Grünerløkka and sample the offerings at Mathallen Oslo, the city’s premier food hall, then wrap up your day at Blå for some live music.

If you have four days, you can dive deeper into the city’s natural beauty. One day could be dedicated to the Bygdøy peninsula, accessible via the Bygdøy ferry or bus number 30. Here, you can visit various museums like the Norsk Folkemuseum, Polarship Fram Museum, Kon-Tiki Museum, and Norwegian Maritime Museum, or simply head to Huk or Paradisbukta beaches, hidden along scenic forest trails. Another day, pack a picnic and take the B1 or B2 public ferry to explore some of the islands in the Oslofjord—Hovedøya features a ruined Cistercian monastery, Gressholmen has a nature reserve and quaint cafe, and Langøyene boasts a beach and camping area.

What’s the best way to reach Oslo?

Oslo Gardermoen Airport, located about 50km north of the city, is serviced by major airlines as well as budget carriers like EasyJet and Norwegian. Getting into the city center is straightforward: trains depart directly from Gardermoen’s arrivals hall to Oslo S, the main train station. You can opt for the pricier Flytoget airport express train, costing 240kr and running every 10 minutes, or the more economical Vy public trains, which operate three times an hour for only 124kr. While Flytoget is slightly quicker, both journeys take approximately 20 minutes. Some budget airlines fly into Torp Sandefjord Airport, over 100km southwest of Oslo, but the small savings on airfare are often outweighed by the added hassle.

For those who prefer not to fly, you can reach Oslo via the DFDS ferry from Copenhagen or Fredrikshavn in Denmark, or by train from Gothenburg in Sweden.

Is it easy to navigate Oslo?

Oslo is a compact city, with many major attractions within a short walking distance of each other. For quicker travel between points, there’s a comprehensive public transport system, including trams, buses, a metro, and ferries. The tram service operates six lines from about 5:30 am to 1 am; tram 12 is particularly handy, as it stops near many key sights, such as Vigelandsparken, the National Museum, Rådhus, Akershus Festning, and the Oslo Opera House, before continuing to the vibrant neighborhood of Grünerløkka.

The city's bus network complements the tram services and operates 24/7, although there are reduced frequencies overnight. The T-Bane, Oslo's metro system, consists of five lines that extend into the suburbs, all connecting to Jernbanetorget (for Oslo S) and Nationaltheatret. A fleet of electric ferries navigates from Aker Brygge/Rådhusbrygge to the islands of the Oslofjord and beyond, with the most frequent services during the summer months.

The entire transport network is managed by Ruter, with tickets valid for all services. A Zone 1 ticket covers Oslo city and is priced at 42kr for a single ride, 127kr for a 24-hour ticket, and 352kr for a seven-day pass. The Ruter app is the easiest way to plan your journey and purchase tickets, though paper tickets can also be bought at T-Bane machines, 7-Elevens, Narvesen stores, or at the Ruter Customer Service Centre on Jernbanetorget. Keep in mind that Ruter tickets do not apply to the Bygdøy ferry.

Must-see attractions in Oslo

Enjoy the views from the Oslo Opera House

It’s a popular activity, but climbing the sloping, iceberg-inspired Oslo Opera House to admire the fjord at sunset is a must-do experience in Oslo. Designed by local architects Snøhetta, this stunning white-marble structure opened in 2008 and has since welcomed visitors to its shimmering rooftop.

Experience a floating sauna

Whether you’re in Oslo during the summer heat or the winter chill, spending an hour in one of the city’s floating saunas—complete with a refreshing dip in the Oslofjord—is an invigorating experience. You’ll find these at Aker Brygge and on Langkaia near the Opera House, but the ones operated by Oslo Badstuforening at Sukkerbiten (near the Munch Museum) offer a more private setting.

Discover the monumental sculptures at Vigelandsparken

Within Frognerparken on Oslo's affluent west side, you'll find hundreds of figurative pieces by the celebrated Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland. The park features a striking layout that culminates at the 17-meter-high Monolitten (Monolith), a granite tower entwined with writhing bodies, surrounded by 36 clusters of emotively posed figures.

Stroll along the Akerselva

This river was the driving force behind Oslo’s textile factories in the 19th century. Walking along its 9km stretch offers a glimpse into the city’s industrial past. Starting at Grønland, you’ll pass notable sites like a former indigo factory turned music venue, Blå, a Sunday makers’ market, a once sail factory now housing the Oslo National Academy of the Arts (KHiO), and the Labour Museum, which highlights the lives of factory workers.

Explore further: The top activities in Oslo

My favorite activity in Oslo

On sunny days, nothing beats taking T-Bane line 1 to Frognerseteren and setting off on the well-marked trails through the stunning Nordmarka forest. It’s conveniently close to the city center, yet primarily frequented by locals. A brisk hike while inhaling the fresh scent of spruce is the ultimate way to unwind. Before heading back, I love to stop at Kafe Seterstua, situated inside Frognerseteren (the charming 19th-century wooden chalet named after the T-Bane stop), for a coffee and a slice of apple cake.

How much should I budget for Oslo?

There are many reasons to be thrilled about your trip to Oslo, but one crucial aspect can significantly influence your experience: the cost. Norway is known for its high prices – even in comparison to its Nordic neighbors – and the capital city is no different. While accommodation standards are generally high, you may find that hotel rooms are pricier than in other European countries. Besides where you stay, your biggest expenses will likely be dining out and, if you enjoy a drink, the cost of your favorite beverage (yes, it's as steep as you've heard).

Try to enjoy your main meal during lunchtime – many restaurants offer excellent lunch deals – and if you're planning a big night out, follow the locals' example and stock up at the nearest Vinmonopolet (government-run alcohol store) for forspill (pre-drinks).

If you’re a fan of museums and plan to immerse yourself in culture during your stay, an Oslo Pass can save you a significant amount. This pass grants you free access to nearly all attractions in the city and includes public transport for its duration (including the ferry to the Bygdøy museums). However, make sure to calculate your plans – generally, you’d need to visit three attractions and make three public transport trips for the 24-hour pass (520kr) to be worthwhile; the 72-hour pass is the best value, averaging just under 300kr per day.

Nonetheless, you can enjoy Oslo’s beauty without spending anything: witness the daily Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace; stroll along the Harbor Promenade (Havnepromenaden); walk the scenic Akerselva; hike in the nearby forest; take a dip in the harbor baths; and embark on an art journey through one of the city’s renowned sculpture parks, all free of charge.

Typical expenses:

Dormitory bed: 450kr Midrange hotel accommodation: starting at 1500kr Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from 1300kr Public transport ticket (24 hours): 127kr Entry to museums: 150kr Oslo Pass (24/48/72 hours): 520/750/895kr Filter coffee/café latte: 40kr/50kr Sandwich: 100–150kr Two-course dinner for two people: 1000kr Draft beer at a bar (0.25L/0.5L): 75kr/115kr Session in a harbor sauna: starting from 165kr

Read more: A budget-friendly escape in notoriously pricey Oslo

Is it better to use cash or card?

While cash remains widely accepted in Oslo, most shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes generally prefer debit or credit card payments, even for smaller purchases. In fact, paying by card is often the only option: some casual dining spots utilize a ‘scan-the-barcode-to-order-and-pay’ method, certain transport apps require a payment card, and a few establishments don’t accept cash at all.

You might encounter some market vendors (and even a few vending machines) that accept payments via Vipps, a peer-to-peer payment app. Unfortunately, it only works with a Norwegian bank account, so be sure to ask if they accept other payment methods, like PayPal, before making a purchase.

What is the appropriate amount to tip?

While tips are appreciated, Norway does not have a strong tipping culture, and it’s not expected. If you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or bar and wish to show your gratitude, tipping between 5% and 15% is considered suitable.