Travel Guide Tuesday||Oslo, Norway
So here I am back again with my second post of the new series 'Travel Guide Tuesday' and this Tuesday I will be sharing my favourite things about an amazing City in Norway, Oslo.
I thought this was a great place to talk about this month as the cold wintery nights are now starting to draw in and everyone is getting ready to celebrate Christmas what better country to visit than the Winter Wonderland of Norway. If it is not already on your Winter bucket list I am hoping after you have read this post it will be.
Oslo||The Facts
Norway is in Europe geographically but is not part of the European Union (EU). It is however closely associated with the Union as it is a member in the European Economic Area (EEA) It is also in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
Norway is known for its extensive coastline which faces the North Atlantic Ocean. The country has some of the most breath taking and dramatic coastlines, National Geographic has stated that the Norway Fjords is one of the world's top tourist attraction.
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| Photo Credit: Twitter.com |
How to get here||Flights
There are 3 main Airports in Oslo. The most popular international Airport in Oslo is called Oslo- Gardermoen. You might also decide to fly to either Oslo-Rygge or Oslo-Torp depending on where you are flying in from.
The main airlines which fly directly to Oslo from the UK are SAS, British Airways, Norwegian, Ryanair and BMI Regional.
Other airlines which also fly to Oslo from across the world include KLM, Lufthansa, Air France, Brussels Airlines, Swiss, Finnar, Icelandair, Aeroflot, Eurowings, AirBaltic, Wideroe, Austrian Airlines and Vueling Airlines. The latter airlines tend to have stop overs as most of them are international airlines, so if you are looking to come to Oslo from a country outside the UK you will need to be careful when picking a stop over/connecting flight.
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| Photo Credit: Pinterest |
Where to Sleep||Hotels
The luxury budget...
#The Thief
This 5 star hotel named 'The Thief' (not sure where the name comes from) is located in the Landgangen part of town. This part of the city is very popular with tourists as it is only a 15 minute walk away from the city centre and the National Gallery, it is also very near to bus stops and stations which can take you out of the City and has links to the nearest Airport. (Nearest station is 0.9 miles away)
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| Photo Credit: Average Joe's' Blog |
The hotel itself is ultra modern with all the mod cons you would expect to find in a 5 star hotel. It has some of the best reviews which can all be found here. The rooms all come with balconies and 'rainforest showers' can be found in the private bathrooms.
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| Photo Credit: Pommie Travels |
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They have a restaurant called 'Fru K' which serves traditional Norwegian style cuisine. Or if you don't fancy that they also have 'Thief Food Bar' which serves international dishes. They also have a roof terrace- perfect for in the summer.
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| Photo Credit: Lila Gjerstad |
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| Photo Credit: Nordicchoicehotels |
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| Photo Credit: Booking.com |
Other facilities include Free Wi-Fi in all the rooms, a Spa, Sauna and Swimming pool and free round the clock access to the Gym. You can also request use of your own Personal Trainer in the Gym should you wish. Or maybe have their on site hair stylist to come round and pamper you for the day.
Not only does the hotel offer all the above but all guests staying at the hotel receive FREE entry to the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art.
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| Photo Credit: Design Boom |
So it is safe to say you wont be bored or disappointed if you stay in 'The Thief'.
Prices start from £297.00 for a Deluxe Double room for 2.
Hotels that won't break the bank...
#Oslo Guldsmeden
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| Photo Credit: Dagbladet |
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| Photo Credit: Widesnoanchor |
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| Photo Credit: Guldsmeden Hotels |
The hotel offers spa facilities including a Turkish steam bath and Sauna for all guests to use.
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| Photo Credit: booking.guldsmedenhotels |
The have a restuarant on site as well called 'La Mason' which serves traditional style dishes and some continental. The hotel is situated just a 3 minute walk to the National Theatret Station, which provides transport links to the main Airport. It is also a short ride away from Aker Brygge the lively harbour which is packed with amazing restaurants and bars.
Although the rustic style isn't to suit everyone's tastes I really like the look of this hotel it looks cosy and very comfy and I would love to stay here during the winter months.
The price of this hotel is £114 per night for a superior double room based on 2 people sharing.
What to do||Sightseeing
#The Northern Lights
I don't know about you but seeing The Northern Lights has been on my bucket list for a very long time. The Northern Lights can only be seen from certain parts of Norway and at very specific times of the year- so keep that in mind if you are travelling to catch a glimpse of them. The further North you go the best chance you have at seeing them.
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| Photo Credit: Pinterest |
If you are heading further up the country to try and catch The Northern Lights make sure you also give Dog sledging a go. This is something I have always wanted to try. I love Husky's and would love to ride some one day. For more info about the experience and to book accommodation click here.
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| Photo Credit: Pinterest |
#Oslo Fjords
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| Photo Credit: fjordtravel |
I think you will agree the Fjords are simply breathtaking. They truly are one of natures wonders so it is no surprise tourists flock to catch a glimpse every year. To find out more info about where you can book your own tour or day trip to the Fjords click here.
#The Royal Palace
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| Photo Credit: Open to Sightseeing |
#Skating
Spikersuppa Skating Rink
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| Photo Credit: Panoramio |
#Arts
If you are someone into Arts you definitely will not be disappointed visiting Oslo. It has many different artistic and cultural things to see and visit. Including the following:-
#Oslo Opera House
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| Photo Credit: wiki |
#National Gallery
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| Photo Credit: flickr |
#National Theatre
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| Photo Credit: Travel Editions |
Oslo is also home to a lot of various Museums which are all scattered around the City. There is a lot to choose from all suiting different tastes and interests here are a few I think you should visit first...
#Viking Ship Museum
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| Photo Credit: Geoffwah.Wordpress.com |
#Fram Museum
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| Photo Credit:The Coastal Path |
#Norwegian Museum of Culture
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| Photo Credit: Expedia |
#Munch Museum
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| Photo Credit: Visit Oslo |
Where to eat||Restaurants
There are loads of great Restaurants/ Café's to choose from in Norway here is a round up of some that have been recommended to me...
#Maaemo
If fine dining, Michelin Stars and Contemporary dishes are your kind of thing then look no further than Maaemo. Located in the Schweigaards gate part of town (very near the Opera House) this modern restaurant is very impressive as it is the only restaurant in the whole of Norway to have 2 Michelin Stars to its name. Serving from a set menu around 95% of the ingredients are sourced locally from Norway.
The restaurant itself is unusual in that it only has 8 tables so if you are after a cozy and unique dining experience I would definitely recommend coming here.
In terms of the menu it again is very unique there is a price guide on there giving you 3 options.
Option 1- Seasonal Menu kr 2050 (approx £155)
Option 2- Beverage Menu kr 1390 (approx £105)
Option 3- Non- Alcoholic Beverage Menu kr 550 (approx £41)
These options are based on per person.
If you like the sound of this place and want to check out their menu in full you can by visiting their official website.
#Hard Rock Cafe, Oslo
Now for something a bit more budget friendly...If you follow my blog already you will know I always seem to stumble upon a Hard Rock Cafe in whatever country I seem to visit. Well it wouldn't be right to not include Oslo's Hard Rock on here. Remember to keep in mind how popular it is with the tourists visiting. If you are after something a little quieter I wouldn't suggest The Hard Rock Cafe.
They serve traditional American dishes like Nachos, Chicken wings, Smokey BBQ Ribs, Burgers and Fries and hand made delicious cocktails to wash it all down with. They offer some serious portion sizes so if you are looking for a light bite I would just share a starter and a few sides if I were you.
You can find this popular American Chain located at 45 Karl Johansgate in the centre of the City.
#Peppes Pizza
Another famous chain which is exclusive to Scandinavia (a bit like our Domino's or Pizza Hut) These are EVERYWHERE in Oslo, round every corner on every street pretty much (there are 9 branches in total), and close at around 10:30 most nights including Sunday's. Make sure you check Peppes' out if visiting Oslo.
#Cafe Sara
Thought I had better include a restaurant which is open later for those of you who are hungry party animals. Cafe Sara is open until 3:30am and stops serving food at around 2:45am so this is definitely a popular late night spot to grab a bite after a night out on the town. The Cafe is also a bar as well hence why it is open till so late. The menu has a good variety including kebabs, chicken, burgers, pizzas, steak and even salads- there really is something on there for everyone and if you don't fancy sitting in you can also order to take away with you. Why not have a look yourself here.
There are loads of great Restaurants/ Café's to choose from in Norway here is a round up of some that have been recommended to me...
#Maaemo
If fine dining, Michelin Stars and Contemporary dishes are your kind of thing then look no further than Maaemo. Located in the Schweigaards gate part of town (very near the Opera House) this modern restaurant is very impressive as it is the only restaurant in the whole of Norway to have 2 Michelin Stars to its name. Serving from a set menu around 95% of the ingredients are sourced locally from Norway.
The restaurant itself is unusual in that it only has 8 tables so if you are after a cozy and unique dining experience I would definitely recommend coming here.
In terms of the menu it again is very unique there is a price guide on there giving you 3 options.
Option 1- Seasonal Menu kr 2050 (approx £155)
Option 2- Beverage Menu kr 1390 (approx £105)
Option 3- Non- Alcoholic Beverage Menu kr 550 (approx £41)
These options are based on per person.
If you like the sound of this place and want to check out their menu in full you can by visiting their official website.
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| Photo Credit: Purentonline |
#Hard Rock Cafe, Oslo
Now for something a bit more budget friendly...If you follow my blog already you will know I always seem to stumble upon a Hard Rock Cafe in whatever country I seem to visit. Well it wouldn't be right to not include Oslo's Hard Rock on here. Remember to keep in mind how popular it is with the tourists visiting. If you are after something a little quieter I wouldn't suggest The Hard Rock Cafe.
They serve traditional American dishes like Nachos, Chicken wings, Smokey BBQ Ribs, Burgers and Fries and hand made delicious cocktails to wash it all down with. They offer some serious portion sizes so if you are looking for a light bite I would just share a starter and a few sides if I were you.
You can find this popular American Chain located at 45 Karl Johansgate in the centre of the City.
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| Photo Credit: Hardrock |
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| Photo Credit: Hardrockcafebrusselswq |
#Peppes Pizza
Another famous chain which is exclusive to Scandinavia (a bit like our Domino's or Pizza Hut) These are EVERYWHERE in Oslo, round every corner on every street pretty much (there are 9 branches in total), and close at around 10:30 most nights including Sunday's. Make sure you check Peppes' out if visiting Oslo.
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| Photo Credit: cochspensjonat |
#Cafe Sara
Thought I had better include a restaurant which is open later for those of you who are hungry party animals. Cafe Sara is open until 3:30am and stops serving food at around 2:45am so this is definitely a popular late night spot to grab a bite after a night out on the town. The Cafe is also a bar as well hence why it is open till so late. The menu has a good variety including kebabs, chicken, burgers, pizzas, steak and even salads- there really is something on there for everyone and if you don't fancy sitting in you can also order to take away with you. Why not have a look yourself here.
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| Photo Credit: Lost in a spotless mind.com |
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| Photo Credit: Trip Advisor |
How to get around||Transport
Getting around Oslo and the City centre should be easy as 1,2,3 for a City so small as Oslo the public transport is one of the most extensive in Europe. So I would say this is the most efficient and easiest ways to get to each place quickly, there is also only one ticketing system so this makes it a lot easier get around if you are a tourist.
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| Photo Credit: City Zapper |
Just like in London, Paris and most other European Cities Oslo does have an underground Metro system which is called the Oslo T-Bane. It is operated by Sporveien T-banen. The Metro has 6 lines which all run through the city centre. It has 97 stations in total. All of the lines are represented by colours Line 1: Purple, Line 2: Light Blue, Line 3: Yellow, Line 4: Dark Blue, Line 5: Orange, Line 6: Green. All the lines run to different parts of Oslo, which you can hopefully see on the map below.
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| Photo Credit: mapa-metro |
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| Photo Credit: flickr |
If you prefer not to take the metro Oslo also has a very easy Taxi system. You can usually find Taxi ranks scattered around the City but to be on the safe side I would suggest asking either whatever hotel you are staying at or restaurant you are eating at to book your a hotel, so you know you are getting into a legal vehicle.
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| Photo Credit: energyathaas |
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| Photo Credit: thornews So there we have another little guide to add to our new collection. Hope you have enjoyed reading all about the wonders of Oslo. If this has inspired you to book a trip to this amazing City I would love to know about it! Check out my Travel Guide Tuesday newsletter here. If you like what you see why not subscribe? |
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