Local Secrets of Oslo

Oslo

Oslo is the capital of Norway, sitting between deep fjords and endless forests in the southern part of the country.

It’s home to around 700,000 people, which makes it chill but still buzzing with energy and culture.

The average temperature throughout the year is about 6°C, with cool winters and surprisingly sunny summers.

Oslo welcomes around 1.5 million tourists per year, and many come looking for nature, design, and modern Scandinavian life.

It’s a city that feels open, creative, and balanced — where the outdoors and the city blend naturally.

You’ll find it easy to slow down here, explore, and just enjoy what’s around without rushing.

The best time to visit? Definitely late spring to early autumn, when the days are long and the city is glowing.

If you’re into architecture, music, and nature all in one place, Oslo will totally win you over.

Norwegian fjord

Fish stewed in black bread

Arriving to Oslo

Oslo is one of those cities where nature and modern life live side by side, and somehow, it just works.

You’ll find it in southern Norway, right on the Oslofjord, surrounded by water and forested hills.

Getting there is easy. Fly into Oslo Gardermoen Airport, then hop on the express train — super fast and simple.

You can also arrive by train from Sweden or Denmark, or even by ferry if you’re feeling scenic.

If you’re staying a few days, check out the neighborhoods before booking. Each one has a different vibe.

Grünerløkka is young, full of cafes, street art, and second-hand shops — perfect if you’re into the creative scene.

Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen are more upscale and right by the water, great for a stylish, central stay.

Frogner is quieter and classic, with parks and beautiful buildings — a good mix of chill and elegance.

Getting around is a breeze. Oslo has trams, buses, metro lines, and even ferries — all on the same ticket.

You can also rent bikes or electric scooters to explore at your own pace and enjoy the fresh air.

The food scene here is seriously underrated. Try local dishes like salmon, reindeer, and traditional meatballs with lingonberry.

Oslo’s cafes are cozy and everywhere, perfect for warming up with coffee and a cinnamon bun when it’s cold.

There’s a lot to see too. The Oslo Opera House is iconic — and you can walk on the roof.

The Vigeland Park is full of statues and perfect for a stroll or a picnic when the sun’s out.

You’ve also got amazing museums, like the Munch Museum and the Fram Museum about polar exploration.

But Oslo isn’t just about looking — it’s about doing. Take a boat ride, hike the trails, or try kayaking.

If you’re into winter sports, there’s skiing and sledding just a metro ride away in Holmenkollen.

In summer, the fjord islands are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and feeling like you’re miles from the city.

Oslo feels calm but alive — a city where everything is easy but nothing is boring.

It’s perfect for travelers who want nature, culture, and cool city vibes, all wrapped in one clean, friendly place.

Accomodation

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Currency: The official currency of Oslo is the Norwegian Krone (NOK) 1 Kr is equivalent to 0.098 USD.

Keep in mind before travelling to Oslo

Oslo is one of those cities that feels laid-back but still full of life. It’s clean, chill, and surrounded by nature, which makes it perfect for mixing city walks with outdoor escapes. Even though it’s not super big, there’s always something going on — especially when it comes to festivals.

Every year, Oslo hosts some pretty awesome events. There’s Oslo Jazz Festival in August, which fills the city with cool live music. Then you’ve got Øya Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in Norway, with a lineup that blends local and international acts. National Day (17th of May) is a massive celebration, with everyone dressed up and parading through the streets. There’s also the Oslo Pride Festival, the Mela Festival (focused on world culture), the Oslo Film Festival, and Christmas markets that take over the city center in December.

If you want to explore a bit outside the city, there are some great day trips. You can head to Drobak for coastal vibes, Holmenkollen for ski history and views, Fredrikstad for a touch of old-town charm, Tusenfryd if you’re into theme parks, Hønefoss for waterfalls, or just hop into the Oslofjord islands for a mini nature break.

Tips to visit Oslo

People from Oslo are called Oslovians in English, but locals just say they’re from “Oslo.” They’re friendly but not overly chatty — personal space is a thing here, so don’t be surprised if greetings are quick and low-key. A simple “Hei” (hi) or “Hallo” works perfectly.

The main language is Norwegian, but almost everyone speaks English fluently, so getting around and asking questions is super easy. People usually eat lunch around 12–1 PM and dinner around 6–7 PM, often at home or in cafés with simple, healthy meals.

Shops usually open around 10 AM and close by 6 or 7 PM, though some supermarkets stay open later. Tipping isn’t expected, but in restaurants or taxis, it’s nice to round up or leave around 5–10% if service was good.

Norway has a solid public healthcare system, and dress codes are pretty casual and weather-based. Locals say stuff like “Uff da” when something’s annoying and “Kos deg” to wish you a cozy time!