Many expats are intimidated by Oslo's colder climate. Luckily, the city offers a wide range of both indoor and outdoor activities to suit every taste. Whether you want to get outdoors and experience Norway's favourite sport of cross-country skiing or join a knitting club, there are activities available for every age group and any mood.
Get outdoors in Oslo
Hiking, or to ‘gå på tur' which translates to ‘go for a walk', is an all-time Norwegian favourite regardless of the weather. In fact, Norwegians even have a saying that there is no such thing as bad weather – there is only bad clothing. Come rain or shine, weekend or after work; you will be able to spot a Norwegian in the forest areas taking a walk. If they are short on time, most will settle for a stroll in a nearby park.
along the fjord and river. There are also many with beautiful greenery and often, breath-taking views over the city. In wintertime, hiking shoes are traded for skis. Whatever the weather, remember to dress warmly and take along a , the official Norwegian hiking snack.
Indoor activities in Oslo
For those who aren't so keen on hiking in the rain, there is a wide range of indoor activities to choose from.
Museums
Here are some of the top-rated museums in the city:
- (Norsk Folkemuseum)
ÌýGood to know:
Many museums offer free or discounted admission to children and discounted prices for students.
Other activities in Oslo
In recent years, new attractions such as (that even has a bar for adults!), a , and an have sprung up around Oslo. There are also more common indoor activities such as a in fjord side modern facilities and .
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Oslo even has a suitable for everyone from nine years of age and older.
Dining and nightlife in Oslo
Nightlife
Alcohol is expensive in Norway, so those looking to hit the clubs and bars will be in for a shock. When it comes to alcohol, it's best to do as the locals do: have a ‘vorspiel' or pre-party and head out to the clubs afterwards. Alcohol can be purchased at any during operating hours – check online for opening times before you go as many of the shops have short opening hours, especially on Saturdays.
ÌýGood to know:
Many clubs have an entrance fee. Try checking online for specific prices.
Dining
Finding budget eats at a food hall or grocery store in Oslo isn't too difficult, but going out for a romantic meal will cost you big bucks (really big bucks – a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs upwards of 200 Norwegian kroner). Even fast-food chains like McDonald's are shockingly expensive.
Fine dining experiences are best reserved for special occasions; why not impress your significant other to a fancy home-cooked meal, or pack in a picnic for your family to enjoy on one of the many sprawling green lawns of Oslo's beautiful parks?
Read more about gastronomy in Oslo.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
