Hidden Courtyards in Oslo: 5 Secret Spots to Discover

Ever wandered through Oslo's streets wondering what lies behind those imposing facades? The Norwegian capital harbours some truly spectacular hidden courtyards - secret outdoor spaces that locals have been quietly enjoying for years. These tucked-away gems offer everything from Japanese-inspired gardens to historic cobblestone terraces, perfect for escaping the city bustle whilst staying right in the heart of the action.

We've uncovered five of Oslo's most enchanting hidden courtyards that are absolutely worth seeking out this summer. Whether you're after a peaceful afternoon in the sunshine or a lively evening with friends, these secret spots deliver authentic Oslo experiences away from the tourist crowds.

Bar Babylon & Happolati Garden: Japanese Oasis at St. Olavs Plass

Right beside Oslo's city centre, you'll discover Bar Babylon - a hidden gem tucked behind the Happolati restaurant. Together, these venues create a delightful urban courtyard that operates from May through October.

The space feels like stepping into a Japanese garden, complete with pink cherry blossoms, traditional wagasa umbrellas, and lush plants surrounding the outdoor seating area between towering buildings. Whilst there's limited sunshine here, it's absolutely perfect on sweltering summer days when you need cooling shade and a refreshing drink.

What to Expect

Cocktails range from 135-165 NOK (€11-14, $13-16), whilst Happolati brings their Japanese-inspired kitchen outdoors. The famous ramen features prominently, with udon noodles (195 NOK/€16/$19) proving particularly popular. From the bar, you can grab a Frydenlund draught (0.25l) from 46 NOK (€4, $5) or house wine from 125 NOK (€11, $12) - surprisingly reasonable for central Oslo.

Getting There: Take tram lines 11, 12, or 18 to St. Olavs plass. The entrance is easy to miss, so look for Happolati's signage.

Opening Hours: Tue-Thu: 17:00-00:00 / Fri-Sat: 16:00-01:00

Given the intimate size, booking ahead is highly recommended, especially after recent media coverage.

Svovelstikka: Industrial Charm at Helsfyr

Haven't discovered Svovelstikka yet? You're not alone - this isn't somewhere you'd stumble upon by accident. Located within Fyrstikktorget, it combines neighbourhood pub atmosphere with hidden gem status.

The moment you enter the square, you're surrounded by warm brown brick that creates a cosy, historical atmosphere. Despite being in a busy traffic area, the courtyard feels like a protected oasis - completely sheltered and surprisingly peaceful.

Dining & Drinks

The menu covers both lunch and dinner options. Recent highlights include the Reef & Beef (258 NOK/€22/$25) featuring beef fillet, scampi, and calamari, plus Chicken Gyros (248 NOK/€21/$24). They also serve burgers, salads, soups, and various gyros dishes.

Drink prices remain reasonable with beer from around 80 NOK (€7, $8) and wine from 100 NOK (€8, $10) per glass.

Getting There: Take bus 37 or tram 17 to Helsfyr, then walk to Fyrstikktorget. Look for the courtyard entrance - it's more hidden than you'd expect.

Opening Hours: Mon: 11-21 / Tue-Thu: 11-23 / Fri: 11-01 / Sat: 12-01 / Sun: 12-19

Smia Galleri: Historic Courtyard on Vålerenga

[Note: Closed for summer until 1st August]

On Vålerenga, this stunning courtyard transports you back to the 1800s, offering a complete escape from urban chaos. It's genuinely unique in Oslo - nothing else quite compares to this historical setting.

Green plants cascade down yellow building walls, cobblestones cover the ground, and beautiful tulips bloom with views towards Vålerenga Church. The courtyard catches sunshine through its entrance until 19:00 throughout summer, making it ideal for leisurely lunches or evening drinks.

Food & Atmosphere

The lunch menu offers nine varied options including asparagus soup, rye bread with smoked trout and scrambled eggs, Parma ham, salami ventricina, and cheese selections. Snacks like sardines, pickled mini tomatoes, and smoked cashews start from 65 NOK (€5, $6).

Insider Tip: Their jazz evenings are legendary, complete with special "jazz soup" - definitely worth experiencing once.

Getting There: Take tram 18 or 19 to Vålerenga, then walk to Opplandsgata. The entrance is through an unassuming doorway.

Opening Hours: Tue-Fri: 16-01 / Sat: 13-01 / Sun: 13-23

Kolonihagen Frogner: Organic Dining on Cobblestones

[Note: Closed in July for summer break]

Near Frogner Park, Kolonihagen Frogner combines locally-sourced ingredients with a relaxed, green outdoor space. The charming cobblestone courtyard features sliding doors opening into the restaurant and wine bar - perfect for extended summer lunches in the sunshine.

Seasonal Menus

Tuesday through Friday brings lunch menus (10:00-15:00), whilst Saturdays feature special brunch offerings (13:00-16:00). Choose from stews, toast, shakshuka with eggs and bread, or daily salads with duck leg (265-335 NOK/€22-28/$26-33).

A glass of cremant (185 NOK/€16/$18), Mimosa (195 NOK/€16/$19), or Elderflower Spritz (195 NOK/€16/$19) enhances the experience. Their extensive wine list offers plenty of choices, whilst draught beer (0.4l) costs 115 NOK (€10, $11).

Sun Schedule: Expect sunshine from 12:00-15:30, though the courtyard remains pleasantly warm throughout evening hours.

Getting There: Take tram 12 to Frogner plass, then walk along Frognerveien. It's a short stroll from the park entrance.

Opening Hours: Tue-Sat: 10-22

Oslo Mekaniske: Urban Workshop Vibes

If you know Oslo well, you've probably heard of Oslo Mekaniske Verksted near Grønland Torg. The workshop-inspired concept creates a playful atmosphere with excellent seating areas, and they welcome outside food - making it perfect for extended socialising.

Despite its central location, the courtyard maintains a remarkably calm, relaxed atmosphere. The outdoor area features strong green elements with large plants and trees along the walls. Evening ambiance improves with hanging lights, heat lamps, plus available cushions and blankets.

Drinks & Atmosphere

The beverage selection impresses with reasonable pricing. House wine costs 145 NOK (€12, $14) per glass, with cava available at the same price. Draught beer typically comes in half-litre servings - Frydenlund costs 126 NOK (€11, $12). Classic cocktails include G&T from 163 NOK (€14, $16), depending on your gin choice from their extensive selection.

Getting There: Take tram 18 or 19 to Grønland, then walk towards Teaterplassen. The entrance is near Grønland Torg but easy to miss.

Opening Hours: Wed-Sat: 15-02 / Sun-Tue: 15-00:30

Planning Your Courtyard Crawl

Best Times to Visit

Summer months (May-September) offer the longest opening hours and warmest weather. Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, whilst weekend evenings bring livelier atmospheres.

Payment Tips

Most venues accept cards, but carrying some cash is wise for smaller purchases. Norwegian tipping culture is minimal - rounding up is sufficient.

Getting Around

Oslo's excellent public transport connects all these locations. The Ruter app handles tickets for trams, buses, and metro. A day pass costs 108 NOK (€9, $11) and covers unlimited travel.

For more Oslo dining inspiration, check out our guides to the best lunch spots in Oslo and top bars in Oslo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations for these courtyards?

Bar Babylon and Kolonihagen Frogner strongly recommend reservations due to limited seating. Others operate on a first-come basis, though arriving early helps secure the best spots.

Are these courtyards open year-round?

Most operate seasonally from May through October. Winter weather makes outdoor dining less appealing, and some venues close completely during colder months.

What's the typical price range for food and drinks?

Expect to pay 150-300 NOK (€13-25, $15-30) for main courses and 80-150 NOK (€7-13, $8-15) for drinks. These prices reflect Oslo's general dining costs rather than tourist premiums.

Can I bring children to these courtyards?

Most welcome families during daytime hours, though evening atmospheres tend toward adult socialising. Bar Babylon and Oslo Mekaniske have age restrictions after certain hours.