Oslo Travel Guide: Ultimate Things to Do & Tips

Accommodation, Pixel Forest, The Well Spa, Fjord Cruise

Oslo Torp – Airport Travel to City Centre

Stepping off your flight at Oslo Torp Airport, you’ll quickly realise that it’s not right next to Oslo. It’s about 110–120 km southwest of the capital, near Sandefjord. But don’t worry, getting into the heart of Oslo is surprisingly straightforward and comfortable, even in winter.

The most popular option for travellers is the Torp-Ekspressen express bus. It’s a dedicated coach service that runs directly from the airport terminal to Oslo Bus Terminal (right by Oslo Sentralstasjon), with departures scheduled to match flight arrivals so you won’t be stuck waiting around too long after you land.

Journey Time to Oslo Centre & Bus Tickets

The journey takes roughly 1 hour 35 minutes to just under 2 hours, giving you time to watch the wintry Norwegian countryside roll by before you reach the city. Torp-Ekspressen EN Ticket prices vary depending on how far in advance you book and demand on your travel date, but expect to pay around NOK 280–350 one way if you buy online beforehand, slightly more if you purchase at the bus.
We purchased our tickets online in advance for peace of mind. The bus was there waiting when we exited the airport, it was super easy.

Once you arrive at Oslo Bus Terminal, you’re in the heart of the city, just a short walk or quick tram/train ride to central attractions, hotels and restaurants. We stayed at the Clarion the Hub hotel and it was a 10 minute walk from the bus station and very central. From here you can dive straight into exploring Oslo’s museums, fjordfront, festive markets or cosy pubs with a drink in hand.

Oslo Accommodation

Oslo is a beautiful and vibrant city but it’s known for being quite expensive compared with many other European destinations and UK cities. Accommodation, food and transport all tend to cost more than the European average, and even compared with the UK, prices (especially for eating out and hotels) can feel higher due to Norway’s strong economy and higher wages.

We stayed at Clarion The Hub Hotel and it was perfect for us. It is a large hotel and the rooms are clean and spacious. We booked a room with two twin beds as we were on a girls trip and the beds were big and comfortable. We booked breakfast for both mornings too and it was a fabulous buffet of hot and cold food. Lots of choice and everything was cooked well. It was so busy at breakfast both mornings but there was always a table.

Here are three options that suit different budgets for your trip:

Budget

• Citybox Oslo – A popular budget choice with straightforward, modern rooms and easy access to the city centre.
• K7 Hotel Oslo – Great value for travellers looking for simple, clean rooms in a central spot.
• Bob W Oslo Sentralen – Stylish yet affordable hotel near Oslo Central Station, ideal for exploring on foot.

Mid‑Range

• Thon Hotel Spectrum – Comfortable central hotel with modern amenities and good transport links.
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo – Well‑reviewed city option with breakfast available and great views.
• Saga Hotel Oslo, WorldHotels Crafted – Stylish stay blending comfort and boutique character.

Luxury

• Hotel Continental, Oslo – Classic luxury address with elegant rooms and premium service.
• Amerikalinjen – Stylish high‑end hotel right by Oslo Central, perfect for special occasions.
• THE THIEF – Boutique luxury with modern design and top‑notch facilities in the Tjuvholmen area.

Evening Entertainment at the Christmas Markets

Oslo in December is pure winter magic. The city lights up with Christmas markets from early November through most of December, the biggest of which is Jul i Vinterland in the heart of the city around Spikersuppa; a cosy wonderland of wooden stalls, twinkling lights, a huge ice rink and even a Ferris wheel. Expect lots of festive foods like julegrøt (warm rice porridge with butter and cinnamon), pepperkaker (gingerbread biscuits) and steaming cups of gløgg (spiced mulled wine) as you wander and shop for unique gifts and crafts.

What to eat at the Oslo Christmas Markets

Food lovers will find plenty beyond the markets too. Try street-style pølser i brød (grilled sausages in bread) at market stalls, hearty local dishes like pinnekjøtt (salted lamb ribs) in casual spots around the city, or warm up with a coffee and kanelbolle (cinnamon bun) in one of Oslo’s cosy cafés.

Once the markets close and the temperature drops even further, it’s time to seek out a pub for a well-earned pint or festive drink. For classic Irish pub vibes right in Oslo, we visited The Dubliner! It was surprisingly large inside although it looks quite unassuming from the outside. It was lovely, cosy vibes and we enjoyed a few hours chatting sipping Guinness to end the evening.

If you fancy branching beyond Irish pubs, Oslo has plenty of other warm and welcoming spots too.

Sir Winston’s Public House – Popular central pub on Karl Johans gate with a lively atmosphere and easy access after market hours.

SVANEN Cocktail bar – Stylish cocktail bar nearby if you fancy a festive tipple beyond beer and mulled wine.

Oslo Bonanza AS – Fun local bar not far from the main market area, great for grabbing a relaxed drink and soaking up Oslo nightlife.

Whether you’re sipping gløgg at a market stall, savouring Nordic treats or toasting with friends in a pub, Oslo in December promises a seasonal escape with plenty of festive cheer and Nordic charm.

Oslo Pixel Forest

If you’re looking for something truly unique on your Oslo trip, the Nordic Pixel Forest is one of the city’s most magical experiences. Hidden within Ekebergparken Sculpture Park, this immersive art installation by Pipilotti Rist transforms a peaceful forest into a mesmerising display of dancing lights, colour and sound. It’s open every day from 07:00 to 23:00, making it perfect whether you’re heading out at dusk or keen to spend an evening under the glowing canopy.

We went via tram at 7pm after we had visited the Christmas Markets. We were there and back in about an hour, so it was an easy trip to make the experience.

What to Expect in the Pixel Forest

The artwork is more than just lights, it’s a multisensory experience. Thousands of LED points are suspended amid the trees so that as you walk through, you become part of the installation. Visiting after dark is especially magical as the colours and shapes really come alive against the night sky, with soundscapes that enhance the atmosphere.

Getting There by Public Transport

The easiest way to reach Nordic Pixel Forest from central Oslo is by tram or bus, both covered by the city’s public transport network:

• Trams 13 or 19 will take you to the Ekebergparken stop, from there it’s a short uphill walk to the forest paths where the installation sits.

Using the Ruter App

To ride Oslo’s trams, buses or metro you’ll need a valid ticket from Ruter, the city’s public transport provider. The easiest way to do this is with the Ruter app:

• Download the app on iPhone or Android before you travel.
• Set up an account and add a payment method (card, Apple Pay etc.).
• Use the app to Plan Your Journey and see real‑time departures. It’s really handy for finding the quickest tram or bus to your stop.
• Buy your ticket directly in the app before boarding- tickets must be valid on your phone to avoid fines.

Tickets are typically zone‑based. Within Zone 1 (central Oslo) the fare is straightforward, and once bought in the app you can hop on trams or buses without further hassle. It also shows live schedules so you’ll know exactly when the next tram to Ekebergparken is due.

Tips for Visiting

• Wear good footwear: paths in the forest can be uneven or muddy in wet weather.
• Go after dark: the installation is incredible at night when the lights stand out most.
• Bring layers: evenings in Oslo can be chilly, especially in the woods of Ekebergparken.

Whether you’re an art lover, tech fan or nature seeker, Nordic Pixel Forest is a brilliant way to experience something different in Oslo. With great public transport and the Ruter app on your phone, getting there is easier than you might think

Oslo City Centre Tour

Oslo city centre is a compact, walkable delight, offering a mix of modern architecture, historic sites, and cosy cafés. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you can see some of the city’s highlights in just a couple of hours, stopping along the way for coffee and snacks. On our first morning after breakfast, we took a few hours to wander around the city and see as much as we could.

Key Sites to Explore

1. Oslo Opera House – Famous for its striking sloped roof that you can walk on, the Opera House offers panoramic views of the fjord and city. A perfect start for photos and a little fresh air.
2. Akershus Fortress – A short stroll from the Opera House, this medieval fortress dates back to the 1290s. Wander the ramparts for stunning harbour views and a sense of Oslo’s history.
3. The Harbour and Saunas – Oslo’s waterfront is lined with piers, boats, and public saunas. KOK Oslo Sauna and Oslo Sauna at Sørenga are perfect for warming up in winter or cooling down in summer, offering a relaxing local experience right by the fjord.
4. Karl Johans Gate – Oslo’s main street, stretching from the Central Station to the Royal Palace, is packed with shops, restaurants, and street life.

Cafés to Stop At

• Baker Hansen – A classic Oslo bakery chain with a warm atmosphere, perfect for picking up a kanelbolle (cinnamon bun) or a coffee to fuel your walking tour.
• Tim Wendelboe – Renowned for speciality coffee and excellent pastries.
• Fuglen – Retro café with excellent coffee and a unique vibe, ideal for a mid-tour break.

2-Hour Walking Tour Suggestion

Here is the exact tour of the city that we took in the morning of our first day. We started at our hotel, the Clarion The Hub hotel, and wandered towards the harbour and opera house.

1. Head to the Oslo Opera House, climb the roof and enjoy views of the harbour (20–25 minutes including photos).
2. Stroll through the harbour area and stop at KOK Sauna or Sørenga Sauna for a quick look or a brief soak if you have time (15–20 minutes). We saw so many people enjoying this traditional activity. We absolutely couldn’t join in with this but we did head to a spa later to enjoy a sauna experience!
3. Walk along the waterfront to Akershus Fortress (10 minutes), explore the ramparts and courtyards (20–25 minutes). The fortress is well worth a visit and a really nice walk around taking in the history of the site. There are QR codes throughout so you can listen to the audio explanation of each part.
4. Stop at Baker Hansen for a coffee and pastry (30–40 minutes). We stopped at this café because it looked really cosy and festive! We each had a latté to warm up from the cold outside.

This tour combines historic landmarks, modern architecture, and local culture, all within easy walking distance. It’s ideal for a morning or afternoon, giving a flavour of Oslo’s charm without rushing. We were going to finish at the Royal Palace but we decided to save that for our next day of exploring.

The Well Spa, Oslo

If you’re after a day of serious rest and rejuvenation outside the buzz of Oslo’s city centre, The Well Spa & Hotel is one of the Nordic region’s most impressive spa destinations. With over 10 000 m² of wellness space, it’s often described as Scandinavia’s largest spa, featuring a mix of global bathing traditions and Nordic tranquillity right by leafy forest surroundings.

At The Well you can spend a few hours or make a full day of it. The facility blends relaxation and cultural bathing traditions beautifully:

• 11 Pools – from warm soaking areas to cold plunge pools.
• 15 Saunas & Steam Baths – including themed thermal experiences.
• Specialty Rituals – Hamam, Moroccan Rhassoul clay treatments, and Japanese onsen‑style bathing.
• Optional Treatments – massages, facials and body treatments are available if you want to splurge.
• Restaurants & Lounges – chill out with coffee, drinks or a light lunch between spa sessions.
• Outdoor Areas – sunbeds, cabanas and even outdoor showers to make a day of it.

The spa has a grown‑ups‑only vibe (18+), and in many areas saunas and steam rooms encourage no swimwear. Towels and traditional pesthemals are provided, though swimwear is optional in pools. Be aware that you cannot take your own swimwear. If you do not want to go fully nude in the pools, you have to purchase swimwear from the spa. The cheapest one was around £20.

Costs

You can enjoy The Well with a day pass, and prices typically start from around NOK 525–595 (~£45‑£52) depending on the time you visit and whether you book online in advance. Passes usually include rental of a bathrobe, slippers and towels. Booking on arrival without pre‑booking can cost a bit more. We booked our spa day in advance online.

Getting There from Oslo

The Well is about 15–20 km south‑east of central Oslo, nestled near Kolbotn in Sofiemyr.

• Ruter Bus (Line 81) – Take the bus from central Oslo to the Granholtet stop; from there it’s a short walk to the spa. The bus ride typically takes around 35–45 min and a ticket costs about NOK 85–110 (£7–£9).

It was very easy to get the bus and we also got the bus back again. We set off around 1pm and left the spa around 8pm. We had the whole day there and it was so relaxing! There are no phones allowed in the spa, so it was nice to be ‘off grid’ for the day, read our books and chat. We ate in the restaurant wearing our robes and had a few cocktails around the pools.

A Magical Fjord Cruise in Oslo

One of the highlights of our Oslo trip was a 2-hour Norway fjord cruise booked through GetYourGuide, and it was every bit as stunning as promised. What made this experience extra special was the boat itself, with an accessible roof, we could stroll above the waterline, enjoying panoramic views of the Oslofjord as we cruised past islands, marinas, and colourful waterfront houses.

The crisp Scandinavian air, combined with a cup of warm mulled wine, made the trip feel wonderfully festive and relaxing. From above, the city skyline blended effortlessly with the calm waters, offering perfect photo opportunities at every turn. The gentle motion of the boat, the reflective fjord, and the winter light created an atmosphere that was both peaceful and exhilarating.

Even though the tour lasted just 2 hours, it felt like a true escape from the city. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to experience Norway’s famous fjords without leaving Oslo, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to enjoy the city from a fresh perspective.

For those planning the trip: dress warmly, especially if you plan to spend time on the roof, and don’t forget your camera — the views are incredible. Pairing a scenic walk along the harbour with this cruise makes for a perfect half-day in Oslo.

Walking around the city – final stops

After the cruise, we headed up Karl Johans Gate, Oslo’s main shopping street, alive with shops, historic buildings, and street performers.

Kaffebrenneriet

Roughly halfway up Karl Johans Gate, we popped into Kaffebrenneriet, a popular local café chain known for its excellent coffee and light pastries.

Landmarks Along the Way

• Oslo Cathedral – A short side street detour offers a chance to see this historic church.
• National Theatre – Iconic theatre building along Karl Johans Gate, perfect for photos.
• Parliament (Stortinget) – Norway’s national parliament building, a must-see for architecture and history lovers.

Royal Palace (Slottsparken)

We ended our walk at the Royal Palace, wandering through Slottsparken gardens. Snap some photos, enjoy the calm greenery, and, if timing allows, catch the changing of the guards. This is a relaxing and grand way to finish your stroll through Oslo city centre.

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