Oslo Tips

Discover insider tips, local secrets, and comprehensive guides to help you explore Oslo like a local. From hidden cafés to outdoor adventures, our Oslo Tips collection has everything you need for your Oslo journey.

Featured Articles

Bogstad Manor, Oslo: A Practical Visit Guide

Bogstad Manor, Oslo: A Practical Visit Guide

September 5, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•7 min read

Use this practical Bogstad Manor guide to choose between the free park, guided manor tour, animals and Café Grevinnen, then reach the estate from Oslo without guesswork.

Hos Peder Oslo: Small Plates and Wine in Grünerløkka

Hos Peder Oslo: Small Plates and Wine in Grünerløkka

September 5, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•6 min read

Use this Hos Peder Oslo guide to decide whether the Grünerløkka small-plate restaurant fits your meal, check the current menu and booking route, and plan around a changing menu.

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Floating Sauna Oslo: Choose a Session and Know What to Bring

Floating Sauna Oslo: Choose a Session and Know What to Bring

October 6, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•5 min read

A first-visit decision guide to Oslo's dockside saunas, booking formats, locations and packing basics.

Bygdøy Vertshus Oslo: Norwegian Dinner, Menu and Jazz

Bygdøy Vertshus Oslo: Norwegian Dinner, Menu and Jazz

September 25, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•7 min read

A practical guide to Bygdøy Vertshus for English-speaking visitors: what Mer av Oslo experienced, what the restaurant currently lists, and how to plan a meal on the peninsula.

Hakone Coffee Oslo: Locations, What to Try and Three Alternatives

Hakone Coffee Oslo: Locations, What to Try and Three Alternatives

September 21, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•16 min read

Use this Hakone Coffee Oslo guide to choose a current branch, separate April 2025 tasting notes from current facts, and compare three distinctive alternatives.

Duken Bar & Pizza Oslo: Menu, Walk-Ins and What to Expect

Duken Bar & Pizza Oslo: Menu, Walk-Ins and What to Expect

September 19, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•8 min read

Use this Duken Bar & Pizza Oslo guide to check the live menu, understand the walk-in and group-booking rules, assess the coeliac warning and plan a casual Grünerløkka visit.

Farms in Oslo: Three Easy Visits with Cafés and History

Farms in Oslo: Three Easy Visits with Cafés and History

September 17, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•9 min read

Choose between Bånkall, Fåbro and Bogstad using current opening patterns, honest animal and history expectations, dated local food observations and practical trip checks.

Breakfast in Oslo: Four Local Morning Options

Breakfast in Oslo: Four Local Morning Options

September 13, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•8 min read

Compare a confirmed bakery buffet, a Tuesday breakfast club, a bakery morning and a late breakfast-like lunch using current official details and dated local observations.

New Bars and Restaurants in Oslo: Three 2026 Openings

New Bars and Restaurants in Oslo: Three 2026 Openings

September 11, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•7 min read

Choose among Brostein Bar, Lille Dilli and Marani using current official planning details and clearly dated Mer av Oslo visit notes.

Outdoor Cafes in Oslo: Eight Local Spots for Coffee and Gardens

Outdoor Cafes in Oslo: Eight Local Spots for Coffee and Gardens

September 9, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•8 min read

Compare eight Oslo cafés with gardens, terraces or waterside seating, then use the current venue page to avoid a seasonal closure or changed opening time.

Bar Lupo Oslo: An Italian Small-Plate and Date-Night Guide

Bar Lupo Oslo: An Italian Small-Plate and Date-Night Guide

September 7, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•6 min read

Use this Bar Lupo Oslo guide to decide whether its Italian baked goods, handmade pasta, cicchetti and wine-led setting fit your date or shared meal, then check live details before you go.

Date Night Bars Oslo: Three Local Picks for Drinks and Games

Date Night Bars Oslo: Three Local Picks for Drinks and Games

September 7, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•6 min read

Choose a low-pressure first-date bar in Oslo: Grus Grus, listed by the owner as Tranen Bar, Territoriet or RØØR, with current practical checks.

Corso Oslo: An Italian Restaurant Guide for Bjørvika

Corso Oslo: An Italian Restaurant Guide for Bjørvika

September 6, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•6 min read

Use this Corso Oslo guide to decide whether the modern Italian restaurant in Bjørvika suits your meal, then check the current menu, hours and booking route before you go.

Bars in Oslo: Three Cosy Torshov Spots for Food and Drink

Bars in Oslo: Three Cosy Torshov Spots for Food and Drink

September 4, 2026•by Oslo Explore editorial•5 min read

Find three Torshov stops for fresh baking, drinks, breakfast and small plates, with practical links and a simple order for your visit.

Oslo Sunday: What's Open, Closed and Worth Doing

Oslo Sunday: What's Open, Closed and Worth Doing

January 1, 2026•Oslo Explore editorial•7 min read

Most ordinary shops close on Sunday, but museums, restaurants, small convenience stores and outdoor attractions can still give visitors a full day in Oslo.

Oslo Self-Guided Walking Tour: Free Map (2025 Update)

Oslo Self-Guided Walking Tour: Free Map (2025 Update)

January 1, 2026•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

This article will provide a flagship 'Best of Oslo in a Day' self-guided walking tour. Unlike competitor listicles, this post will feature a rich, embedded interactive map from Oslo Explore, a downloadable GPX file for use in other map apps, and a printable PDF version. The route will logically connect 8-10 key attractions with suggestions for coffee stops and photo spots, directly showcasing the quality of Oslo Explore's curated routes.

The Perfect 3-Day Oslo Winter Itinerary (2025): A Local's Guide & Map

The Perfect 3-Day Oslo Winter Itinerary (2025): A Local's Guide & Map

September 26, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oslo's winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland, but the limited daylight hours demand strategic planning. This comprehensive 3-day itinerary maximizes every precious hour of winter light while embracing the cozy hygge culture that makes Norwegian winters magical.

Oslo Curated Routes

Oslo Curated Routes

September 4, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oslo offers more than random sightseeing. The city has developed themed walking routes that help visitors explore different aspects of Oslo. These curated paths focus on specific interests like architecture, design, art, and alternative experiences, guiding visitors through both historic landmarks and modern developments like Tjuvholmen and Vulkan.

Solo Travel in Oslo

Solo Travel in Oslo

September 3, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oslo stands out as one of Europe's safest capitals for solo travelers. The Norwegian city combines modern architecture with stunning natural beauty, offering an ideal blend of urban culture and outdoor experiences. With excellent public transportation and English-speaking locals, navigating this Nordic destination proves surprisingly straightforward for independent travelers.

Oslo Street Food Hall

Oslo Street Food Hall

September 1, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oslo's street food scene blends traditional Norwegian flavors with global influences across multiple indoor food halls. These venues serve as both dining destinations and social gathering spots, with some transforming into nightlife venues on weekends. The city's food halls range from waterfront locations to converted historic buildings, each offering unique atmospheres and culinary experiences.

Closest Fjords Near Oslo: Day Trips and Easy Ferry Options

Closest Fjords Near Oslo: Day Trips and Easy Ferry Options

August 31, 2025•Oslo Explore editorial•6 min read

The closest fjord to Oslo is Oslofjord itself, with easy island ferries from the city centre. For dramatic mountain scenery, compare that short local trip with a longer journey to the Sognefjord area.

Visit Oscarsborg Fortress on a Day Trip from Oslo

Visit Oscarsborg Fortress on a Day Trip from Oslo

August 30, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oscarsborg Fortress sits on an island in the Oslofjord, about an hour from Oslo. This military site made history on April 9, 1940, when it sank the German cruiser Blücher and delayed the Nazi invasion of Norway. Today, it's open to the public as both a museum and recreational area. The fortress offers guided tours, historical exhibits, and outdoor activities that make it perfect for a day trip.

Oslo Street Food

Oslo Street Food

August 28, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oslo's street food scene looks different from what you'd find in Bangkok or Mexico City. Here, the action happens inside heated food halls and covered markets. This makes perfect sense when winter temperatures drop well below freezing for months at a time.

Top Attractions in Oslo Norway

Top Attractions in Oslo Norway

August 27, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Oslo combines urban sophistication with natural beauty in ways few capitals can match. Norway's vibrant capital offers world-class museums, stunning architecture, and green spaces that make it perfect for business travelers seeking both culture and relaxation. The city has become a must-visit destination for art lovers with two major new museums opening recently.

Visit Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum in Oslo

Visit Holmenkollen Ski Jump and Museum in Oslo

August 25, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Holmenkollen Ski Jump stands as Norway's most visited tourist attraction, drawing roughly one million visitors each year. This iconic venue combines Olympic history with modern engineering - a 60-meter steel structure offering panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord. The world's oldest ski museum sits at its base, showcasing 4,000 years of skiing heritage.

Oslo's Hidden Gems: Curated Routes for Authentic Exploration

Oslo's Hidden Gems: Curated Routes for Authentic Exploration

August 23, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Most visitors stick to Oslo's famous attractions, but the real magic happens in the quiet corners locals love. These hidden gems offer authentic experiences without the crowds. You'll find everything from historic wooden houses to quirky museums and cozy cafes tucked away from the main tourist routes.

DIY Oslofjord Island Hopping by Ferry

DIY Oslofjord Island Hopping by Ferry

August 22, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Island hopping in the Oslofjord might sound expensive, but here's the secret: you can do it using Oslo's regular public transport ferries. No tour groups, no inflated prices - just you, a ferry ticket, and access to some of Norway's most beautiful islands. The best part? These ferries run year-round and cost as much as a day's worth of city bus rides.

Get from Oslo Airport to City Center Cheaply

Get from Oslo Airport to City Center Cheaply

August 20, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Flying into Oslo Gardermoen Airport and need to reach the city center without breaking the bank? The Vy Regional train offers the most budget-friendly option at 124 NOK, taking just 23 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station. While the Airport Express train is faster, you'll pay nearly double the price for only a 4-minute time savings.

Oslo Food Guide

Oslo Food Guide

August 20, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Complete Oslo food guide covering traditional Norwegian cuisine, best restaurants, food markets, and must-try dishes in Norway's capital.

5 Cheap Eats in Oslo Under 150 NOK

5 Cheap Eats in Oslo Under 150 NOK

August 19, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Find delicious cheap eats in Oslo under 150 NOK. From traditional pølse to Vietnamese pho and international food halls - budget dining guide.

Oslo Museums Guide

Oslo Museums Guide

August 19, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Your complete guide to Oslo's best museums including Munch, National Museum, and polar exploration sites. Plus money-saving tips with the Oslo Pass.

5 Free Oslo Activities to Try in 2025

5 Free Oslo Activities to Try in 2025

August 18, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Explore 5 amazing free activities in Oslo for 2025. From walking on the Opera House roof to Vigeland Sculpture Park, discover budget-friendly adventures.

Best Time to Visit Oslo

Best Time to Visit Oslo

August 13, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

The best time to visit Oslo: seasons, weather, daylight, budget months, Oslo Pass tips, and cozy plans for rainy days.

5 Reasons to Visit Oslo in 2025

5 Reasons to Visit Oslo in 2025

August 13, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

Thinking about where to go in 2025? Oslo is that sweet spot where city energy meets calm fjord air.

Best Weekend Itinerary for Two Days in Oslo

Best Weekend Itinerary for Two Days in Oslo

August 11, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•5 min read

The best weekend itinerary for two days in Oslo: fjord views, free sights, Bygdøy museums, and easy transport tips. Perfect for first-time visitors.

Smakeriet: Authentic Brazilian Acai Bowls in Oslo

Smakeriet: Authentic Brazilian Acai Bowls in Oslo

August 6, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Discover Oslo's hidden Brazilian gem serving authentic acai bowls, world-class cheese bread, and South American flavours in the heart of Fredensborg.

Checklist: Plan the Perfect Weekend in Oslo

Checklist: Plan the Perfect Weekend in Oslo

July 28, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•10 min read

Your complete guide to planning an unforgettable weekend in Oslo - from must-see attractions and transport tips to local dining and seasonal activities.

Is the Oslo Pass Worth Buying in 2025

Is the Oslo Pass Worth Buying in 2025

July 26, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Is the Oslo Pass Worth Buying in 2025 The Oslo Pass promises free entry to 30+ attractions and unlimited public transport, but is it actually worth...

Perfect One Day Oslo Travel Itinerary

Perfect One Day Oslo Travel Itinerary

July 24, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Perfect One Day Oslo Travel Itinerary Oslo might be compact, but it packs a serious punch when it comes to world-class attractions. Whether you're ...

Healthy Cafés in Oslo: 3 Must-Visit Spots for Wellness Food

Healthy Cafés in Oslo: 3 Must-Visit Spots for Wellness Food

July 23, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•8 min read

Discover Oslo's top healthy cafés serving colourful smoothie bowls, organic porridge, and guilt-free treats. From Grünerløkka to Majorstua, find your perfect wellness spot.

Revierhavnen Kro: Oslo's Hidden Island Restaurant

Revierhavnen Kro: Oslo's Hidden Island Restaurant

July 21, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Discover Revierhavnen Kro on Hovedøya island - Oslo's most exclusive waterfront restaurant with stunning fjord views, accessible only by boat or special arrangement.

Perfect 24 Hour Oslo Itinerary

Perfect 24 Hour Oslo Itinerary

July 20, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Perfect 24 Hour Oslo Itinerary Oslo might be compact, but Norway's capital packs incredible experiences into every corner. Whether you're on a layo...

Best Sangria in Oslo: Where to Find Spain's Favourite Drink

Best Sangria in Oslo: Where to Find Spain's Favourite Drink

July 19, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Discover Oslo's top spots for authentic sangria, from traditional Spanish tapas bars to trendy waterfront venues. Complete guide with prices, varieties, and insider tips for international visitors.

4 Perfect Summer Spots in Oslo You Must Visit

4 Perfect Summer Spots in Oslo You Must Visit

July 18, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•8 min read

Discover Oslo's hidden summer gems from waterfront dining to charming garden cafés - your guide to the city's most enchanting warm-weather destinations.

Budget Travel Oslo

Budget Travel Oslo

July 17, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Budget Travel Oslo Oslo might have a reputation as one of the world's priciest cities, but don't let that scare you away! With some smart planning ...

Hvervenbukta Beach: Oslo's Hidden Sandy Paradise

Hvervenbukta Beach: Oslo's Hidden Sandy Paradise

July 17, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•6 min read

Discover Hvervenbukta, Oslo's best-kept secret beach just 20 minutes from the city centre, featuring pristine sand, floating jetty, and waterfront café.

Best Ice Cream in Oslo: Local Gelato Spots Guide

Best Ice Cream in Oslo: Local Gelato Spots Guide

July 16, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•8 min read

Discover Oslo's finest ice cream parlours and gelato shops, from handcrafted artisan scoops to traditional Norwegian soft serve - your complete guide to sweet treats in the capital.

Hidden Courtyards in Oslo: 5 Secret Spots to Discover

Hidden Courtyards in Oslo: 5 Secret Spots to Discover

July 15, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•7 min read

Discover Oslo's best-kept secrets: hidden courtyards tucked behind city facades, from Japanese-inspired gardens to historic cobblestone spaces perfect for summer dining and drinks.

MUNCH Museum Oslo Tickets: Prices, Hours and Free Entry

MUNCH Museum Oslo Tickets: Prices, Hours and Free Entry

July 14, 2025•Oslo Explore editorial•5 min read

MUNCH's current admission and hours, the limited free Wednesday offer, and a practical plan for seeing The Scream without relying on old museum advice.

The Best Bars in Oslo

The Best Bars in Oslo

July 14, 2025•by Mer av Oslo staff•5 min read

We've explored Oslo's bars over the years. Each place offers a unique atmosphere and memorable drinks.

Your Perfect Day in Oslo: Explore Hidden Gems with Your Oslo City Map

Your Perfect Day in Oslo: Explore Hidden Gems with Your Oslo City Map

July 14, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•4 min read

Discover a perfect day itinerary in Oslo with our city map guide, featuring hidden gems from islands to floating saunas. Enjoy exclusive Oslo Explore discounts up to 20% on local attractions!

Best Lunch Spots in Oslo: Three Choices for Your Day

Best Lunch Spots in Oslo: Three Choices for Your Day

July 12, 2025•Oslo Explore editorial•5 min read

Three Oslo lunch settings, with current venue links and a clear reason to choose each one.

Oslo Transport and Accommodation 2025

Oslo Transport and Accommodation 2025

July 3, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•4 min read

Planning a trip to Oslo in 2025? You'll need to know about significant transport disruptions affecting the city's metro system. Here's your complete guide to getting around and where to stay during this challenging but manageable period.

Oslo Opera House Walk on Roof: Free Visit, Hours and Tours

Oslo Opera House Walk on Roof: Free Visit, Hours and Tours

July 1, 2025•Oslo Explore editorial•6 min read

Walk the Opera House roof without a performance ticket, separate outdoor access from foyer hours, and compare the free visit with the current guided tour.

Walk Around Bygdøy Oslo

Walk Around Bygdøy Oslo

April 14, 2025•Mer av Oslo staff•4 min read

Looking for things to do in Oslo? Explore Bygdøy Oslo! Discover beautiful coastal paths, forests, and great spots for a break on this lovely peninsula.

Best Pub Quizzes in Oslo

Best Pub Quizzes in Oslo

April 10, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•8 min read

Looking for the perfect quiz Oslo experience? Discover our complete guide to quiz nights happening every day of the week across Oslo! From beginner-friendly to expert challenges, find your ideal quiz Oslo venue!

Viking Ship Museum Oslo: closure and alternatives

Viking Ship Museum Oslo: closure and alternatives

April 1, 2025•Oslo Explore editorial•5 min read

The original Viking ships are unavailable during the museum closure. Choose an Oslo alternative by what you want to see: original objects, digital storytelling or a polar ship.

Beyond the Oslo Pass: Experience Oslo and Save up to 20%

Beyond the Oslo Pass: Experience Oslo and Save up to 20%

March 31, 2025•by Oslo Explore staff•4 min read

Are you planning a trip to Oslo and looking for ways to enjoy it fully? The traditional Oslo Pass gives you museums and public transport. But what if you want more? Imagine delicious meals, fun activities, and unique adventures—at a great discount. Oslo Explore is your answer.

Norwegian Traditional Food: Four Places to Eat Traditional Cuisine in Oslo

Norwegian Traditional Food: Four Places to Eat Traditional Cuisine in Oslo

March 27, 2025•by Mer av Oslo staff•6 min read

Are you wondering where to find authentic Norwegian home cooking in Oslo? We've discovered four places where you can enjoy delicious traditional Norwegian cuisine with all the hearty potato-based meals in traditional Norwegian style!

Craic and Pints: Finding Your Irish Pub in Oslo

Craic and Pints: Finding Your Irish Pub in Oslo

March 25, 2025•by Mer av Oslo staff•3 min read

Looking for a great Irish pub in Oslo? Discover our top picks for authentic Irish hospitality, perfect pints of Guinness, and lively atmosphere in Norway's capital!