Get from Oslo Airport to City Center Cheaply
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.
TL;DR
- Vy Regional train is cheapest at 114-129 NOK (€9-11) with 23-minute journey time
- Airport Express (Flytoget) costs 240 NOK but saves only 4 minutes at 19 minutes
- Regional trains are currently not departing from platform 4
- Buy tickets via Vy App, online, or airport ticket machines
- Bus options cost 170-250 NOK but take 50+ minutes
- Taxi costs around 900 NOK for up to 4 passengers
Why the Regional Train Beats Express Service
The Vy Regional train proves you don't need to pay premium prices for efficient airport transfers. At 114-129 NOK per adult ticket, it costs roughly half the price of the Flytoget Airport Express train's 240 NOK fare. The time difference? Just 4 minutes longer at 23 minutes versus 19 minutes.
This makes the regional train perfect for business travelers who want reliable service without the express premium. The trains run frequently with departures every 20 minutes, so you won't face long waits even if you miss one connection.
Children aged 4-15 and seniors over 67 get 50% discounts, while students save 25%. Your ticket stays valid for 2.5 hours after purchase and works for transfers to Oslo's buses, trams, and metro system.
Buying Your Ticket the Smart Way
Getting your Vy Regional train ticket is straightforward with multiple purchase options. The Vy mobile app offers the most convenience - download it before your trip and buy tickets on your phone. You can also purchase tickets online through the Vy website or use ticket machines at the airport station.
The airport ticket machines accept both cards and cash, though cards are more convenient. Look for the machines near the train platforms in the arrivals area. If you're traveling during peak business hours, buying tickets in advance through the app saves time at the airport.
Your ticket covers the journey from Oslo Airport to any central Oslo station, with Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) being the main hub for onward connections throughout the city.
Airport Express vs Regional Train Comparison
| Transport Option | Cost (NOK) | Journey Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vy Regional Train | 114-129 | 23 minutes | Every 20 minutes |
| Flytoget Express | 240 | 19-22 minutes | Every 10-20 minutes |
| Airport Bus | 170-250 | 50-70 minutes | Every 15-20 minutes |
The numbers show why the regional train makes sense for most travelers. The Flytoget Express train does run slightly more frequently and offers amenities like free Wi-Fi, but you're paying 100+ NOK extra for minimal time savings.
Business travelers on tight schedules might justify the express cost, but for most trips, the regional train provides excellent value. Both trains use the same modern rail infrastructure and offer comfortable seating for the short journey.
Getting Around Once You Arrive
Oslo Central Station puts you in the heart of the city with connections to Oslo's comprehensive public transport network. Your regional train ticket includes transfers to local buses, trams, and the metro system for 2.5 hours after purchase.
The station sits within walking distance of many hotels and business districts. If you need to store luggage before meetings or sightseeing, Oslo Central offers luggage storage from 129 NOK per day for official station lockers, though nearby third-party services may offer rates around 50-70 NOK per day.
For business meetings in different parts of Oslo, check out our city map of Oslo to plan your route efficiently. And if you're staying longer, explore 5 cheap eats in Oslo under 150 NOK to keep meal costs reasonable.
Video Guide: Taking the Budget Route
When Other Options Make Sense
While the Vy Regional train offers the best value, other transport options have their place. Taxis cost around 900 NOK but provide door-to-door service for groups or travelers with lots of luggage. Airport buses cost 170-250 NOK and take 50-70 minutes, but they make multiple stops throughout central Oslo.
If your final destination isn't near Oslo Central Station, the airport bus might actually be more convenient despite the higher cost and longer journey time. The buses stop at locations like Oslo Bus Terminal and Jernbanetorget, which could be closer to your hotel.
For early morning or late night flights when train frequency drops, consider pre-booking a taxi or checking if your hotel offers airport shuttle services.
FAQ
How much does the cheapest train from Oslo Airport cost? The Vy Regional train costs 114-129 NOK per adult for a single journey to Oslo Central Station. Children, seniors, and students get significant discounts.
How long does the regional train take from Oslo Airport? The Vy Regional train takes 23 minutes to reach Oslo Central Station, only 4 minutes longer than the expensive Airport Express option.
Where do I catch the regional train at Oslo Airport? Regional trains depart from platform 4 at Oslo Gardermoen Airport station. Follow signs for "Tog" (trains) from the arrivals area.
Can I buy regional train tickets at the airport? Yes, buy tickets using the Vy app, online, or ticket machines at the airport station. The machines accept both cards and cash payments.
How often do regional trains run from Oslo Airport? Regional trains depart every 20 minutes throughout the day, with more than 50 daily departures providing reliable service for travelers.
Is the regional train ticket valid for other Oslo transport? Yes, your regional train ticket includes transfers to Oslo's buses, trams, and metro for 2.5 hours after purchase, making it easy to reach your final destination.