TRAVEL INFORMATION

Oslo is beautifully situated at the head of the Oslo Fjord surrounded by forested ridges, and this very location gives the city qualities you may not expect from a capital. Oslo is a fascinating blend of modern architecture, rich history, and natural beauty and is known for the Oslo fjord, green parks, and impressive museums. Oslo is a city that combines the best of nature and culture, offering something for everyone.

Thanks to the Gulf Stream bringing temperate water from the Gulf of Mexico, Oslo’s climate is milder that what its latitude would imply. Average temperatures October: 3,8 to 15,7°C (Min. temperature: -9,4°C, Max. temperature: 23,4°C)

Source: Statistics Norway (min./max. temperatures from 2016-2020)

The weather in Oslo in October can be unpredictable in terms of temperature and precipitation. Visitors are recommended to bring waterproof footwear and a warm coat, as it will be cold at night even when the days are sunny. Snow is unlikely at this time of year, but not impossible.

Downtown Oslo is small and compact and it is usually possible to walk to everywhere downtown. However, the system of public transportation is safe, well developed and reasonably priced. You can buy single, 24-hour or 7-day tickets from Ruter, the city’s public transportation company. We recommend you download the Ruter app, where you can buy your tickets and plan your journey.   If you prefer to use a bike, check out Oslo Bysykkel which allows you to rent bikes all over the city. There are also electrical scooters available for rent all around down town.  

Oslo is known for being one of the more expensive cities in the world, but due to the weaker Norwegian krone in the past couple of years, Oslo has become more affordable for tourists. The currency in Norway is the Norwegian kroner (NOK). You can expect to be able to pay with a credit or debit card in all places and cash is rarely used. All taxes and fees are included when things are priced in Norway, so what you see on the price tag is what you can expect to pay.

Tipping culture 

In Norway, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. Feel free to tip if you feel the service was excellent, but don’t feel obligated to do so. Service charges are usually included in the bill.   

Electricity:
Norway has 220 volts, AC of 50 Hertz.

Electric appliances use continental-style two-pin plugs. Power converters can be borrowed at some hotels. You may purchase adapters in many stores at Oslo Airport, as well as in most electrical supply stores in the city.

Safety:
Oslo is considered a very safe city with a low crime rate compared to other European capitals. Public transportation is also safe and reliable. 

Drinking water
Feeling thirsty? Oslo is renowned for its high-quality drinking water. While bottled water is readily available, there’s no need to purchase it. Simply bring a reusable bottle and fill it up from the tap whenever you need.

Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Norway.

Nationals of EU/EEA countries or countries that Norway has a visa exemption agreement with do not need a residence permit to stay or work in Norway for a stay shorter than 90 days. 

Visitors from other countries need a visitor visa (also know a Schengen Short stay or Type C visa). Please check how to apply for a visa here.

While an application for a visa normally takes up to 15 working days, this term can be extended to 45 days in certain cases. Please make sure to apply for your visa in time.

Oslo Tourism Board

Travel Guides to Oslo

Fjord Tour Oslo

Get the Oslo CityPass

TRAVEL IDEAS

Oslo has a lot to offer, below are a couple ideas to see or to do.

Akershus Fortress

Norsk Folkemuseum

Vigeland Sculpture Park

Rose Castle

SECRET GETAWAYS

Personal recommendations from the local hosts!

Kjersti - Deichman Main Library

If you need a quiet, welcoming space, a place to rest your feet, or just a respite from the weather, Deichman in Bjørvika is there for you. This is Oslo’s main library, but it offers a lot more than just a quiet space and books. The library’s six stories feature a café, a restaurant (and rooftop bar!), and lots of spaces to sit and enjoy your own food or coffee if you wish.

You can find and peruse books, magazines and other reading materials (some of it in English), or listen to music if you prefer – you can even borrow a 3D printer or an overlock sewing machine if you need to!

Deichman Bjørvika is a striking, easy-to-find building right next to the Opera House and the Munch Museum. Its central location and long opening hours (08-22) make it a perfect place to relax in a comfortable location without necessarily spending a lot of money.

Guri - Hvervenbukta

For an easy and delightful escape from the city, I highly recommend Hvervenbukta, a popular year-round destination. It features a scenic coastal walk of about 1.5 kilometers, a beautiful sandy beach, and stunning views of Oslo and the Nesodden peninsula.

A perfect treat for a chilly autumn day is to book a session in the sauna. After 1.5 hours of relaxation, enjoy a coffee and a cinnamon roll at Anne på landet, a charming and rustic café where you can experience true Scandinavian “hygge“.

To get there, take bus 83 or 80E for a 15-minute ride to the Fiskevollen stop. Check ruter.no for timetables or feel free to ask me for advice 😊

FAMILY

Bring your family with you to Oslo! There are so many amazing places and things to do.  Below are some helpful links to assist your planning.

Stovner Tower

Oslo Fire Museum

International Museum of Children's Art

More ideas